Trend Predictions for 2026

Heading into 2026, we at newsort wanted to take a look ahead at where fashion, beauty, and consumer behavior are moving next.

Here are our core predictions for the year ahead.

1. The Return of Heavier Makeup

As outfits become more pared back and uniform, emphasis is shifting toward the face. We’re seeing increasing fatigue around the “clean girl” aesthetic, i.e. glossy lips, dewy finishes, and pink-toned blush.

In response, we expect a move toward more structured makeup: matte or satin finishes, greater focus on the eyes, and neutral bases that feel more main character rather than fresh-faced.

2. Early Signs of Streetwear’s Return

Streetwear isn’t fully back yet, but early signals suggest a quiet re-surfacing after years of having gone dark.

Skate shoes reappearing, old Supreme hoodies and Jordans are coming back into rotation. Logos and graphics taking up more space again. It doesn’t feel like a trend cycle upstart so much as a slow reclaiming of space.

There’s still a long way to go before peak streetwear, but the groundwork is being laid.

3. Accessories Fatigue (With One Exception)

After the last 5 years or so of accessorymaxxing, bag charms, keychains, scarves, sunglasses, etc. are beginning to feel oversaturated and overly fussy.

Jewelry is the exception to this downsizing. Its smaller scale and larger symbolic meaning make it feel less trend-bound and easier to keep in rotation. While other accessories cycle quickly, jewelry remains something people feel comfortable that they'll like for longer.

4. Long Live the Nail

Between 2023 and 2025, elaborate nail designs noticeably declined. Short nails, minimal finishes, and “clean” manicures dominated.

We think that moment has run its course. Nails have always been a place for personal expression, and more elaborate/longer nails, especially press-ons that allow for experimentation without long-term commitment, are well positioned to return.

Neutral bases will always reign supreme, but fun is making its way back in.

5. Is Athleisure Losing Its Grip?

The Business of Fashion has asked what comes after clean-girl makeup. We think the same question applies to athleisure.

Over the past decade, fashion followed a clear progression:
workwear → athleisure → loungewear → streetwear → ...

What comes next?

Our biggest swing prediction: a return to sweaters and jeans. As fitness-coded dressing becomes oversaturated, more structured silhouettes in more natural fabrics will be the what's new.  As we enter a more conservative era, being normal is now the way to signal status.

Final Thoughts

Subtlety is the throughline for 2026. After years of accelerated trend cycles and high-contrast aesthetics, we’re entering a period that favors restraint, longevity, and considered choices.

That’s the lens we’re using at newsort as we move into the year ahead.