By Rosie Lu
Here in California, we’re at least an entire month behind with the weather. By the time chillier temperatures hit us in October, autumnal trends are already in full swing all over the world—which makes any trend overview more like a trend prediction. Nevertheless, here are some of this season’s favorites, here to stay for a few more months.
- Wearing Out-of-Season Colors: Bright colors with intention—especially cornflower blue and chartreuse, rather than the typical muted tones—have been the latest trend, perhaps a continuation of the neon summer.
- Funnel Neck: Funnel-necked silhouettes—a junction of warmth and style—are everywhere this season for their practicality, whether it’s peacoats, windbreakers, or sweaters.
- Military/Utility Jackets: Usually seen in wearable shades of army green or brown, multi-pocketed, functional outerwear is another go-to, especially in a slimmer, fitted silhouette.
- Plaid: No, plaid is not only for grandpas and uncles—that is, if the proper colors and styles are chosen. 2026 trends reframe plaid beyond red-and-black flannels, using the pattern in skirts, jackets, and accessories.
- Suede: This soft yet structured material seems to be designers’ top choice this season for jackets, footwear, bags, and even makeup.
- Fringe: Instantly evoking images of the Wild West and cowboy culture, this embellishment is certainly not for everyone. Fringe is especially common on jackets and bags this year, bringing a sort of avant-garde vibe.
- Cherry Red Accents: Outfit full of neutrals or looking too boring? Add a pop of color with anything small and red—like a ballet flat, heel, or purse to elevate the look without doing too much.
- Straight-Leg Dark Wash Jeans: The era of baggy jeans isn’t necessarily over, but a slimmer yet loose-fitting jean is what’s fresh. Every result from searching “fall outfits” on Pinterest features these timeless, chic pants—since they’re both easy to style and universally flattering, it isn’t hard to see why.
Though it’s difficult to summarize all the wildly different new trends, this season is certainly all about effortless elegance—structured but soft outerwear, sophisticated hues, and slouchy handbags—combined with an element of heritage, for the fringe and plaid. As with every season, there’s definitely something in there for everyone, and fashion is all about finding the trends that work for you. A cherry red shoe you rarely reach for, that pair of straight jeans in your wardrobe that hasn’t seen the light of day for five years? Now’s your sign to try it out, once again, to bring the old into the new.