Fashion Editors Concur: These Outdated Trends Will Not Continue Into Spring 2026
I spend considerable time conversing with fellow fashion editors, and when similar viewpoints emerge in various discussions, I take note. Lately, there's been a clear agreement forming around specific trends—particularly those that seem to be gradually fading. This isn't about labeling anything as "bad," but rather acknowledging when something has reached its conclusion. As someone who enjoys fashion but dislikes being confined to a single era, I find these discussions incredibly useful. They enhance my intuition and prompt me to consider more carefully what I'm purchasing now compared to what I’ll still appreciate in a few years. Here are the trends that editors believe are unlikely to last until spring 2026—and reasons why it may be time to move on.
1. Buying: Silky Button-Downs
Pausing: Longline Structured Vests
Style Notes: "I hate to admit it since I own many, but I think the trend of longline structured vests may have peaked. They aren't so out of style that you should eliminate them from your closet, but a more contemporary option for 2026 is a silky button-down shirt that's slightly fitted and ideally in a non-neutral hue." - Allyson Payer, senior editor.
Shop the Trend:
- **ZARA:** Zw Woman Satin Shirt - Pair it with jeans, skirts, and linen trousers.
- **Reiss:** Silk Double-Cuff Button-Through Shirt - Black pairs well with everything.
- **Ralph Lauren Collection:** Cameron Straight Fit Silk Shirt - Features a luxurious shade.
2. Buying: Interesting Colour Combinations
Pausing: A Closet Full of Beige
Style Notes: "With the rise of the quiet luxury movement, I've felt that winter has become a season dominated by various shades of beige, limiting our color palette. While I appreciate neutrals, this has made winter fashion less thrilling for me over the years. However, this season, even the most minimalist individuals I know are experimenting with bold color combinations. Whether it’s a red-and-white striped shirt with a yellow jacket or a daring mix of purple and green, everyone seems to be taking fashion risks, and I'm quite pleased." - Sierra Mayhew, fashion editor.
Shop the Trend:
- **Reformation:** Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
- **Joseph:** Cambo Sequined Midi Skirt in Purple
- **YSL:** Anita Slingback Pumps - Mesh footwear is a growing trend for 2026.
3. Buying: Menswear-Coded Ties
Pausing: Boring Accessories
Style Notes: "As an accessories enthusiast, I've been looking for ways to add a little extra flair to outfits. Ties have become an exciting addition that completes a look beautifully. Let’s see more ties in 2026!" - ChiChi Offer, associate shopping editor.
Shop the Trend:
- Polka dots are returning for spring 2026.
- **Burberry:** Check Silk Tie in Archive Beige - Instantly recognizable nova check.
- **THE FRANKIE SHOP:** Lene Striped Silk-Blend Tie - Has a charming preppy vibe.
4. Buying: Stovepipe Jeans
Pausing: Barrel-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: "Barrel-leg jeans had their time, but this spring, they will take a back seat as slim-fitting jeans come to the forefront. The emphasis will be on styles like slim-straight, cigarette, and stovepipe cuts. The goal is a fit that closely follows the leg from thigh to ankle—fitting, but not tight enough to be considered skinny jeans." - Nikki Chwatt, associate fashion editor.
Shop the Trend:
- **AGOLDE:** '90s Pinch Waist High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans - Highly praised denim.
- **COS:** Chord Straight-Leg Jeans - A fresh white pair for the upcoming warm season.
- **MANGO:** Mid-Rise Straight Jeans - Available in sizes UK 4 - 26.
5. Buying: Fringe
Pausing: Lace Trims
Style Notes: "While we'll likely continue to see lace-trimmed tops, skirts, and dresses this spring, the prevalence will be much less than in fall and winter 2025. Although this vintage-inspired look seems timeless (even favored by celebs like Zoë Kravitz and Dakota Fanning), I believe this trend (especially in midi skirts and asymmetrical tops) reached its zenith during the colder months. I'm personally avoiding new lace-trimmed items, as I sense they may soon feel outdated—dare I say, cheugy. Fringe, however, is an excellent alternative for anyone seeking a bit of texture without heavily investing in this soon-to-be passé micro-trend." - Alyssa Brascia, associate beauty editor.
Shop the Trend:
- **Xu Zhi:** Fringed Asymmetric Top - This will have everyone thinking it's
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Our fashion editors have disclosed the trends that are going out of style for spring 2026—and what will be replacing them.