2026 Fall Fashion Trends I’m Loving
Fall has always been my favorite season to style. There’s something about the air turning crisp and the light changing that makes fashion feel more intentional. It’s that perfect in-between moment where you can layer, mix textures, and really let your personality shine through.
It’s the season that invites creativity. You can play with proportions, balance cozy and cool, and experiment without feeling overdone. As I’ve been curating wardrobes for clients this season, a few standout trends keep showing up, and I’m genuinely excited about how wearable and personal they feel.
Keep in mind, not every fall trend will work for everyone, and that’s the beauty of personal style. Trends are inspiration, not instruction. They give us ideas to interpret in our own way. Whether you lean toward classic sophistication or something a bit more daring, these looks have plenty of range to make your own. Here are the four fall trends I’m loving most right now and how I’m helping clients bring them to life.
My Favorite 2026 Fall Trends
Modern Prep
There’s a new take on preppy style this fall, and it’s polished without feeling stuffy. Think crisp button-downs, pleated skirts, structured blazers, and loafers, but worn in a way that feels modern and effortless. It’s more “cool professor grabbing coffee between classes” than “Ivy League uniform.”
I love this fall fashion trend because it lets you play with tailoring and still feel comfortable. A blazer layered over a lightweight knit or a relaxed wide-leg jean instantly feels put together without trying too hard.
A great example of this look starts with Veronica Beard’s Maci Plaid Dickey Jacket, which has that structured, tailored feel but in a playful plaid. Pair it with Veronica Beard’s Kasey Wide-Leg Jean for a mix of sharp and relaxed. For color and softness, I love adding Tuckernuck’s Washed Red Ashe Sweater over the shoulders or layered under a jacket. The beauty of modern prep is that it’s timeless; these are the pieces that look just as good next year as they do today.
Town and Country
If modern prep is about polish, Town & Country is about heritage. This fall trend channels a refined, equestrian-inspired aesthetic that feels equally at home in Georgetown as it does on a crisp afternoon in wine country. Think tweeds, suedes, riding boots, and cozy knits with just a hint of countryside charm. It’s classic and a little romantic, and perfect for layering as temperatures drop.
I’m particularly drawn to the textures in this trend. A tailored jacket like Rag & Bone’s Cassidy Jacket adds structure, while Tuckernuck’s Vegan Suede Skirt keeps the look soft and feminine. Finish the outfit with an Argyle Cardigan from Anthropologie and tall STAUD Riding Boots for a nod to classic British countryside style. It’s a look that’s chic but approachable, and when styled with subtle gold jewelry or a quilted coat, it gives just the right amount of luxury without feeling overdone.
Elevated Athlesiure
If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that comfort is here to stay, but this season, it’s all about taking it up a notch. Elevated athleisure blends practicality with polish, creating outfits that move with you throughout your day but still look intentional. I’m talking about matching sets in soft, refined fabrics, sleek sneakers, and outerwear that make even a quick coffee run look pulled together. The key is always fit and fabric; you can be cozy and still look elevated.
I love starting with something like Vuori’s Canyon Insulated Venture Jacket, layered over the Athleta Brooklyn Utility Jogger for an easy-to-wear base. Add a clean white sneaker like this pair from Shopbop and finish with a functional yet stylish bag like Free People’s Quilted Carryall.
I always suggest keeping your palette neutral, think oatmeal, stone, or charcoal for that monochromatic, refined finish. It’s the kind of style that works for real life: school drop-off, errands, or weekend brunch, while still feeling fashion-forward.
Leather and Lace
There’s something so effortlessly powerful about combining opposing textures, and this fall, the contrast between leather and lace is stealing the spotlight. It’s edgy yet feminine, strong yet delicate. This pairing gives every outfit an unexpected twist, whether it’s a leather midi skirt with a romantic lace blouse or lace tights peeking out beneath an oversized jacket. The balance of soft and structured makes this one of my favorite ways to transition from day to night.
For an outfit that nails the look, try Maeve’s Faux Leather Wide-Leg Pants with Dolan Left Coast’s Lace Mock-Neck Blouse; it’s both elegant and a little daring.
If you prefer a softer take, Reformation’s Carolina Silk Skirt offers that same balance when paired with a leather moto jacket. I love how this trend feels modern but deeply feminine; it’s about using texture to express mood, confidence, and contrast.
My Top 5 Fall Must-Haves
If you’re not sure where to start with your fall wardrobe refresh, I always recommend focusing on the foundation pieces first. Here are my top five must-haves this season:
A trench coat or barn coat for layering on chilly days.
The perfect dark denim, easy to dress up or down.
A suede boot is timeless, versatile, and perfect for fall textures.
A leather skirt for that chic, elevated edge.
An argyle cardigan is preppy, cozy, and always charming.
These are the pieces that build endless outfit combinations and let you incorporate trends without starting from scratch.
Recap: 2026 Fall Fashion Trends
2026 fall fashion trends feel effortless and expressive. It’s about balancing structure with ease and luxury with wearability. From modern prep to elevated athleisure and the contrasting textures of leather and lace, there’s a little something for everyone in this year’s fall trends.
I love helping my clients navigate new trends in a way that feels authentic to them, whether that means a full wardrobe update or simply a few key pieces to refresh their look. Looking to update your wardrobe this fall? Be sure to explore my styling services!
