I Reached Out to the Substack Fashion Community—Here Are the Leading Trends They're Purchasing for Fall 2026.

      If there's one consensus among the fashion community for fall 2026, it's that minimalism has had its time in the spotlight. Following years of understated luxury, sleek silhouettes, and wardrobes centered on the notion of less, this season introduces a refreshing desire for something more elaborate and, importantly, significantly more enjoyable. I consulted the fashion-savvy individuals behind some of the most popular style newsletters on Substack to discover what they're actually shopping for, and their responses suggest a fall wardrobe teeming with texture, embellishments, and character. Art Deco is becoming a prominent reference of the season, with its geometric designs, beading, and tactile fabrics translating remarkably well into 2026 fashion. Statement bags are also getting a bold makeover, featuring intricately beaded designs and fringe-laden styles that are hard to ignore. Additionally, fabrics like brocade and jacquard are making a substantial comeback, infusing a sense of vintage glamour into everything from jackets to dresses. The key, as highlighted by several experts, is to avoid making any piece feel overly precious. A beaded bag paired with jeans and a white T-shirt? All of a sudden, that elegance feels right in the moment.

      Perhaps the most intriguing change is that fall’s fashion insiders aren't necessarily aiming to overhaul their wardrobes—they're seeking ways to refresh what they already own. Jewelry is emerging as an essential styling element, with sculptural bangles and earrings capable of reinventing a familiar coat or sweater. A long silk duster can elevate a simple combination of denim and a T-shirt into a purposeful outfit, while a standout blue knit promises to become a go-to piece you’ll wear repeatedly. Even outerwear is taking on a prominent role: leather, shearling, and fur are increasingly seen as integral to the entire outfit rather than mere seasonal must-haves.

      The outcome is a fall wardrobe that feels both more opulent and more thoughtfully curated—less focused on accumulating trendy items, and more on discovering those unique pieces that can alter your perspective on the rest of your closet. Think of it as the Substack fashion community’s roadmap to making fall 2026 feel distinctly more put-together.

      Gabriella Gofis

      (Image credit: @gabrigofis) "Intricate jacquards and brocades have completely captured my attention this fall. Etsy has been a treasure trove for vintage finds, but vintage-inspired options are now appearing across ready-to-wear collections." Substack: Gift of Gabs

      STAUD Halton Jacquard Jacket

      Chan Luu Jacquard Cardigan

      DRIES VAN NOTEN Floral Cloqué Midi Skirt Ilana Torbiner

      "I’m excited about duster coats or long silk jackets for fall. They make excellent transitional pieces and pair well with all the basics in your closet. I enjoy throwing one on to elevate a white T-shirt and jeans, or wearing it for a night out with black trousers. Reformation and Chan Luu have fantastic styles right now, and the vintage options are always plentiful." Substack: Ilana's Substack

      chan luu Dupioni Collarless Coat

      V. Chapman x Kristopher Brock Santiago Coat Noora Raj Brown

      (Image credit: @noorarajbrown) "Interiors often reflect fashion trends, but after the Art Deco explosion of recent years in our homes, it's finally our turn to embrace the glamour in our attire. And it’s so much fun! Fall showcases a variety of beaded and fringe bags, from Connor Ives’s cult piano bags made from vintage deadstock with long fringe to the elegant beaded styles available at The Veil. I favor a 'more is more' approach for evening wear, pairing such bags with beautiful brocade dresses or floral jacquard jackets from Dries van Noten. However, this trend also looks surprisingly chic with jeans and a white t-shirt, especially for daytime." Substack: Objects of Desire

      Conner Ives Large Reconstituted Piano Shawl Silk Bag

      Dries Van Noten Vonda Appliqué Embellished Cropped Jacket in Black - Dries Van Noten

      The Veil Pocket Hana Bag in Black Anna Porte

      "When it comes to trends, I’m always drawn to those that enable me to use pieces I already own. This fall, I’m particularly eager to play with proportions and see familiar wardrobe staples interpreted through new silhouettes—shrunken tailoring, dropped waists, and unique shirt styles. I appreciate that these styles don’t feel like a complete departure from my current wardrobe. Combining a shrunken blazer with trousers I’ve had for years alters the proportions of a go-to look, while a dropped-waist skirt feels fresh yet pairs nicely with a simple T-shirt, knit, or button-down that I already possess. It also boosts my confidence in investing in new pieces since they incorporate elements I already love—and that I can see myself styling in numerous ways." Substack: Anna's Substack

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