Trust Me: I'm a Stylist—These 5 Surprising Accessories Will Trend in 2026
Are you looking forward to the new season? I know I am! Browsing through the spring/summer 2026 shows and the variety of handbags, shoes, and accessories available truly fuels my anticipation for the upcoming year and all the styling possibilities it brings. Not only do I enjoy writing about seasonal trends, but I am fortunate enough to work with them firsthand—styling celebrities, models, and even my fellow editors for photoshoots, fittings, and cover stories. As I prepare for these styling projects, I find myself rapidly pinning, saving, and screenshotting all the trends that catch my eye. Currently, I’m directing my focus towards accessories, as these final touches can either enhance or undermine an entire look.
I’m noticing emerging trends in Paris, London, Milan, and New York that are poised to become mainstream in 2026. Items like belts, jewelry, sunglasses, and gloves add real personality, direction, and punctuation to outfits, transforming them from mundane to stunning. I’m sharing what I’ve observed below, as I believe in sharing insights. Keep scrolling to explore my top accessory trends for 2026 and learn how to shop these styles now.
The Key Accessory Trends for 2026:
1. Shield Sunglasses
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Coach; Saint Laurent; Victoria Beckham; Loewe.) Style Notes: Out with the tiny, rounded, bookish sunglasses and spectacles. Oversized, bug-like, sporty eyewear is making its mark. I noticed this trend emerging from top labels in Paris and New York like Coach, Saint Laurent, Victoria Beckham, and Loewe, indicating a global demand for oversized eye protection. I believe this trend is best complemented with tortoiseshell frames for a classic touch and tinted lenses for that paparazzi-evading vibe. Shop The Trend:
- Saint Laurent Sl 903 Howl Sunglasses: I love the oversized design of these Saint Laurent shades, especially in that chocolate hue.
- ALAÏA Aviator Mask Sunglasses: ALAÏA sunglasses exude confidence.
- Joseph Atlas Aviator Sunglasses: This aviator pair from Joseph is incredibly stylish.
- Bottega Veneta Scudo Shield Sunglasses: Bottega Veneta champions the “go big or go home” mantra.
2. Celestial Crystals
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Simona Rocha; Chanel; Givenchy; Dries Van Noten.) Style Notes: Celestial fashion is gaining traction, and I've noted this trend incorporating sparkling details into earrings, necklaces, and hair accessories. Extra-large crystals, silver accents, intricate chains, and asymmetrical gems evoke distant galaxies and nebulae—something I wholeheartedly enjoy. Simona Rocha, Chanel, Givenchy, and Dries Van Noten excelled at incorporating eye-catching jewelry into simpler pieces like trench coats, tuxedo shirts, and t-shirts, culminating in a striking finish. Shop The Trend:
- COMPLETEDWORKS Corus Recycled Silver Cubic Zirconia Earrings: I adore COMPLETEDWORKS for their festive, eye-catching jewelry.
- M&S Square Resin Glass Collar Necklace: This piece is sure to turn heads.
- H&M's jewelry offers trendy, fashion-forward styles at accessible prices.
- THOMAS SABO Silver Choker With 43 White Zirconia Stones: This sparkling piece from Thomas Sabo is truly a showstopper!
3. Utility Belts
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Toga; Miu Miu; Meryll Rogge; Coperni.) Style Notes: Historically, belts haven’t received enough attention. That’s set to change in 2026, as designers aim to give this accessory a significant makeover. I’ve observed top designers adding utility features like clips, keychains, phone holders, and even AirPod cases to belts, enhancing both their functionality and style. Forget about plain black belts; brands like Toga, Miu Miu, Meryll Rogge, and Coperni are introducing vibrant colors, braided textures, and chunky buckles, pushing belts into a realm that is both playful and practical. Shop The Trend:
- DÉHANCHE Richa Leather Belt: DÉHANCHE belts are a top choice for fashion editors.
- Isabel Marant Chelsea Belt: The striking red color and utilitarian design make this belt unique.
- Wolf & Badger Panthera Belt.
- Miu Miu Leather and Metal Belt: This one is perfect for silver jewelry enthusiasts.
4. Princess Gloves
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Valentino; Simone Rocha; Yuhan Wang; Prada.) Style Notes: Are we talking princess vibes or bare minimum? I know my preference! This simple accessory is becoming decidedly more feminine for 2026, with lace, sequins, satin, and pastel colors taking center stage, adding a charming touch to dresses and skirts. Gloves were the standout item on the runways
Other articles
Seen in London: This Jeans and Boots Pairing Is Essential for Easy Winter Attire.
Now you're informed.
These enchanting, uplifting perfumes are some of the most impressive I've ever experienced.
If you're seeking a fragrance that can enhance both your energy and mood, Vyrao’s top perfumes are just what you need.
Shoe Trends That Will Seem Outdated by 2026 and Alternatives to Consider
Uncover the shoe trends that are gradually fading and the stylish, modern options you should invest in right away.
To Achieve an It Girl Look in a Blazer, Pair It With the Must-Have Accessory Trend Everyone's After Right Now.
The leading accessory trend for this winter is both stylish and comfortable. Find it available for purchase here.
No one showcases a holiday party outfit better than NET-A-PORTER—take a look for yourself.
Explore our editor's top picks for holiday party-inspired items from NET-A-PORTER here.
Dua Lipa initiated the trend, and now stylish individuals all over are embracing these halo manicures.
Inspiration comes this way.
Trust Me: I'm a Stylist—These 5 Surprising Accessories Will Trend in 2026
The larger, the superior.