Not all fashion trends are worth your time.

And I know that might sound surprising coming from a personal stylist, but after 16 years of working with real women, I can confidently say this: trends should serve your life, not complicate it.

Fashion should feel exciting, yes. But it should also feel useful. Because shopping isn’t your full-time job. You don’t need a closet full of pieces that only work for Instagram, a single season, or a very specific version of your life.

My team and I shop with women every single day — stay-at-home moms, executives, speakers, women traveling for work, women showing up on camera, women juggling real schedules. Not influencers buying new outfits daily for content.

And because of that, we see what actually gets worn… and what doesn’t.

So today, I want to break down the 2026 fashion trends my clients will be wearing and the ones they absolutely won’t. Not because they’re “bad,” but because they’re impractical, fleeting, or simply not worth the investment.

Let’s start with what is worth trying.

2026 Fashion Trends Worth Trying

1. Pantone Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer

Cloud Dancer is a soft, elevated white. And in 2026, you’re going to see it everywhere.

Blazers. Knits. Dresses. Denim. Accessories.

Here’s the thing: you probably already own versions of this color. And that’s actually the beauty of it.

This isn’t about replacing your wardrobe; it’s about refining it.

My advice:

• ✔️ Add Cloud Dancer thoughtfully

• ❌ Don’t overbuy

This shade is timeless. It works beautifully when paired with texture, contrast, and deeper tones, and it will last well beyond 2026. One or two high-quality pieces is more than enough.

This is especially powerful if you’re trying to lighten darker winter staples and transition into spring without chasing trends.

2. Embellished Jackets (Still a Yes)

Were embellished jackets ever really out? Not in my world.

This is one of the easiest ways to add personality to a simple outfit. Throw one over a tee and jeans and suddenly the look feels styled without any extra effort.

In 2026, we’re seeing:

• Studded denim jackets

• Soft bomber silhouettes with subtle gems

• Light embroidery, embellished collars, or cuffs

If your style leans playful or bold, this trend is incredibly wearable.

Why it works: It’s versatile, interesting, and doesn’t require you to rebuild your outfit around it.

3. Sculpted, Elevated Denim

This trend genuinely makes me happy.

Denim is comfortable, familiar, and a daily go-to, and designers are finally treating it like a statement piece.

Instead of boxy or shapeless silhouettes, we’re seeing:

• Jackets with peplums or flared hems

• Denim tops with bows or waist definition

• Billowy sleeves and sculpted shapes

• Barrel-leg jeans and modern silhouettes

These details automatically make denim feel more feminine and intentional without sacrificing comfort.

If you live in jeans but want them to feel more polished, this is where to invest in 2026.

4. Dressing Up Athletic Wear

This one surprises people…until they try it on.

Think elevated track pants styled with:

• A tee and a blazer

• A blouse and heels

It’s all about contrast. And when done right, it looks modern, confident, and effortless.

The key is quality. Clean lines. Great fabric. Tailored silhouettes.

Clients always hesitate in the fitting room… and then they see themselves in the mirror and get it.

Comfort and polish don’t have to be opposites.

👉 See the 2026 Trends

2026 Fashion Trends My Clients Will Not Be Wearing

Just as important as what to try is knowing what to skip.

Low-Rise Baggy Jeans

Baggy? Yes.
Low-rise? Hard no.

Most women are not asking for this in real life, and they’re definitely not asking to worry about their underwear all day.

High-rise works.
Mid-rise with a bit of skin? We can talk.

But if a trend makes you feel self-conscious the second you put it on, it’s not worth following.

Romantic Ruffles & Frilly Lace

Boho is back, but most women still want ease and versatility.

Overly frilly, layered ruffles can feel impractical fast. Beautiful on the runway… not always in your everyday wardrobe.

If you want romance without overwhelm, try:

• A silk slip dress

• A slip skirt

• Subtle lace trim at the hem

That feels modern, wearable, and intentional.

Tassels (Beyond Accessories)

The only tassels my clients will consistently wear? On handbags.

Tassel dresses, skirts, and tops are dramatic and fun for photos, but not realistic for everyday life.

If you want movement without the drama, fringe is a much better option. It translates seamlessly into jackets, sweaters, pants, and skirts.

Poet-Core

This rom-com aesthetic has charm, but most of my clients aren’t trying to dress like a movie character.

On its own, poet-core can feel:

• Too slouchy

• Not polished

• Not particularly elevating

Ease is great, but it still needs intention.

Final Thought: Trends Should Support Your Life

In 2026, women are craving wardrobes that:

• Fit well

• Feel intentional

• Work across multiple outfits and occasions

Personally, I’ll be investing in elevated denim silhouettes and choosing fringe over tassels. I’ve been wearing jeans with blouses a lot, so sculpted denim tops and modern skirts feel like a natural next step.

If you ever feel overwhelmed while shopping, remember this:

You don’t need more. You need better.

If you want to share what you’re trying this year, message me on Instagram @thecloset.edit, send a photo or a note. I’d love to see.

Keep building a life — and a style — that truly reflects you. I’ll catch you next time.

Want More Like This?

If you loved this breakdown, be sure to:

• Listen to the full podcast episode

• Take the style quiz on my website

• Follow along on Instagram for real-life styling examples