Your Overview of the Major Trends for 2025 and the Direction Fashion is Taking in 2026.

      Welcome to The Who What Wear Podcast, your direct connection to the designers, stylists, beauty experts, editors, and trendsetters reshaping the fashion and beauty landscape. Subscribe to The Who What Wear Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Each year, Senior Fashion Editor Anna LaPlaca unveils her State of Style report, and there was much to analyze this year. From the new creative director shifts at Dior, Chanel, Loewe, Gucci, Balenciaga, and Bottega (do we need to keep going?) to the decline of quiet luxury (though not completely forgotten), Anna sits down with Editor in Chief Kat Collings to explore her insights and speculate on trends for 2026.

      This episode serves as a succinct summary of the fashion highlights from this year, delving into the reasons behind some of the most significant trends, moments, and style updates from 2025.

      Let’s revisit the rise of quiet luxury. What’s next for it and where are we headed? The quiet luxury trend taught us how to build a solid wardrobe foundation, but now there seems to be a shift towards expressing one's personality through personal style, prioritizing more vibrant and eye-catching pieces.

      While I wouldn’t say it’s entirely obsolete—as there’s certainly still a place for it—the current fashion goal appears to be shifting away from it. We’re yearning for joy and a bit of drama.

      If quiet luxury is fading, what does loud luxury entail? Many designers are interpreting this in their distinctive ways. A prime example is Bottega Veneta, where Louise Trotter debuted as creative director, bringing the brand’s signature intrecciato into focus along with unique, bold textures. One standout piece was an intrecciato leather coat featuring a striking white, feather-like collar.

      (Image credit: Getty Images) We also saw bold, colorful pieces crafted from recycled fiberglass, including voluminous feather skirts and even sequins, which surprised many of us. My reaction was, “Wow, things are changing rapidly.”

      Maximalism seems to coincide with vibrant colors. In fall 2025, bright hues emerged, and by spring 2026, there was a full-blown explosion of color. Historically, periods of maximalist fashion have been associated with times of financial instability. I’m not suggesting we are currently in such a crisis, but there is a sense of uncertainty and discomfort in the air, which could explain this colorful trend.

      The last significant resurgence of bright colors was during the late 2000s and early 2010s, possibly as a reaction to the 2008 financial crisis—who can say for sure? Balenciaga showcased a stunning feathered skirt paired with a leather T-shirt in cherry red and ballet pink, emphasizing unexpected combinations.

      We should also address the '80s influence making its presence felt. What does it signify about 2025 that we’re seeing cigarette trousers and padded shoulders making a comeback? It’s fascinating to see a major decade return, and it’s predominantly the '80s. Chloé is the most notable example, featuring acid-tone florals and oversized shoulders, along with the leggings-as-pants trend. It’s a bit on-the-nose but undeniably fun, and I can’t wait to see these styles in the real world.

      (Image credit: Getty Images) I want to return to the influx of new creative director debuts we witnessed for spring 2026 and highlight the designers who are finding success. You can't discuss this without mentioning Chanel. This season, it seemed to be the standout, particularly due to Matthieu Blazy's innovative take on the brand’s traditional codes. It’s striking because even someone like me, who isn’t a core shopper, is now intrigued about potentially becoming a Chanel consumer.

      Another debut worth noting is Rachel Scott from Diotima moving to Proenza Schouler. Rachel's brand is known for its crochet and artisanal craftsmanship, and her infusion of that aesthetic into Proenza’s sleek, tailored menswear approach is particularly exciting.

      This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.