From Low-Rise Bootcut Jeans to Napoleon Jackets: 7 Trends Set to Return in 2026

      And just like that, we step into a new year. 2026 has arrived, bringing a fresh perspective, possibly a revised personal style, and a wave of new fashion trends. At Who What Wear, we prioritize authenticity in personal taste and strive to avoid fleeting fads. As a fashion editor, I'm often asked which trends are worth keeping an eye on for the upcoming year. Trends are inherently transient, yet in recent years, the pace at which aesthetics have come and gone has been staggering. While this rapid change may not be slowing down soon, I aim to highlight trends with some staying power, or those you might already have in your closet.

      With the nostalgia for Y2K and Indie Sleaze playing significant roles in last year's trends, 2026 will almost certainly witness a revival of styles from the past twenty-five years. Whether it's ultra low-rise jeans, jackets reminiscent of your favorite boy band from 2011, or hat shapes once deemed irrelevant, these returning pieces can often catch you off guard. However, it's not all a throwback to a millennial's awkward teenage years; some reviving items are classic staples, like the V-neck jumper. Moreover, the trends making a comeback aren't solely from the 2000s. Recently, Pinterest revealed its trends for 2026, showcasing '80s maximalism, indicating a farewell to the minimalism and quiet luxury trends we've seen recently. Here are the 7 trends expected to resurface in 2026:

      1. Low Rise, Bootleg Jeans

      Style Notes: While cigarette jeans made a resurgence toward the end of last year and are likely to continue gaining traction into 2026, the low-rise bootleg jeans from the early 2000s feel like the freshest denim style to return. The trend for bootleg cuts has been hinted at since Kendrick Lamar sported *those* Celine Homme jeans at the Superbowl last year, but super low-waisted pairs? That’s something we’ve steered clear of...until now. From bleach acid wash to dark indigo, I've seen various shades evoking peak Madonna in her cowgirl phase (think back to the Don't Tell Me music video from 2000). Just remember, the greater the distance between your belly button and your zipper, the more on-trend you'll be.

      2. '80s Maximalism

      Style Notes: According to Pinterest (and the S/S26 runways), the '80s are making a comeback. Shoulder pads! Power suits! Tartan! The message is clear: go bold, go colorful, or go home. Keep in mind, this isn't a conservative or dull '80s nostalgia; this is genuine maximalism with the mantra of 'more is more.' Designers like Saint Laurent have brought this to the runway with pussy-bow blouses and voluminous dresses, while the red carpet is set for equally impactful looks reminiscent of the glam styles from that era.

      3. V-Neck Jumpers

      Style Notes: While this may seem basic, essentials truly form the backbone of our wardrobes! One trend that 2026 will solidify is the return of the v-neck jumper. V-necks had fallen out of favor for a while, with many favoring the tidy appearance of crew-necks, but they started making a comeback last year. Whether styled with layers underneath (think a shirt, a polo neck, or a simple white tee) or worn alone with a bare neck or a neckerchief, this knitwear piece evokes '90s vibes and looks effortlessly chic.

      4. Bohemia

      Style Notes: We began witnessing the return of bohemia last year, but I predict this year it will take on a more folk-like feel, influenced by 'piratecore.' This may sound peculiar, but stay with me: rather than the gimmicky boho 2.0 with Rara skirts and braided headbands, this will take on a softer and more romantic tone. Imagine sheer balloon pants, ruffled blouses, and bandanas styled as headscarves, signaling a definite move away from quiet luxury. This vibe shift will reflect early '80s Vivienne Westwood inspirations and later designs from John Paul Gaultier and John Galliano that drew deliberate references to 18th-century pirates.

      5. Baker Boy Hats

      Style Notes: Another Y2K trend eagerly awaiting its moment in the spotlight is the baker boy hat. We’ve seen the revival of various hat styles, including Kangol hats, faux fur bucket hats, and pillbox hats for those with classic tastes. I've noticed this trend growing in the last few weeks, likely fueled by everyone rewatching Love Actually during the festive season—who could forget Keira Knightley in that iconic scene, bearing a banoffee pie while wearing a baker boy hat? Whether you opt for black like hers or experiment with prints (I’ve seen camouflage styles emerging), it’s back in style, likely to become