These Once-Trendy Fall Styles No Longer Seem New for 2026

      Fall fashion trends have a peculiar way of lingering longer than expected. Last fall, utility vests, micro bags, and puff sleeves were still prevalent on many street corners in NYC. However, as we approach fall 2026, I'm detecting a change. This year, I’m implementing a strict wardrobe strategy. Rather than letting gimmicky details and trendy silhouettes slip into my closet for another season, I'm opting for items designed to endure beyond a single wear cycle. Consider sporty jackets taking the place of utility vests, slouchy clutches replacing micro bags, and cummerbund belts superseding skullcaps. It's safe to say I have a significant closet cleanout on the horizon. If your wardrobe is still filled with last year's trends, don’t worry. I'm not suggesting everyone should abandon the pieces I've highlighted. If you enjoy them, wear them as often as you'd like. There's no need to replace everything at once; however, as a fashion editor with strong opinions, I do have my preferences. Below, I've outlined the seven swaps I'm making for fall that feel refreshingly modern while remaining highly wearable.

      Skipping: Utility Vests

      Loving: Sporty Jackets

      I’m done with utility vests; a sporty jacket provides the same effortless, casual vibe when paired with jeans, and I’ve already noticed numerous celebrities sporting them. If I were curating a well-researched, runway-inspired fall wardrobe, this would be my first purchase.

      Ronny Kobo

      Brenton Cropped Jacket in Beige

      Pausing on Micro Handbags

      Loving: Cool Girl Clutches

      Micro bags have always seemed impractical to me, and brands are finally realizing that. A slouchy oversized clutch is the cool-girl solution this fall; it instantly elevates any outfit and adds a polished touch without seeming forced.

      Simon Miller

      Metal Concha Clutch

      B-low The Belt

      Melrose Suede Clutch

      Skipping: Puff Sleeve Jackets

      Loving: Not Your Average Trench

      Puff sleeves had their time to shine, but the dramatic proportions are starting to feel more like a novelty rather than a necessity. This fall, I’m favoring trenches that maintain the classic silhouette while experimenting with materials like suede, leather, and denim for a more modern look.

      ANINE BING

      Rickie Maxi Trench

      NOUR HAMMOUR

      Winona Belted Suede Long Coat

      SEA

      Caitlin Belted Leather Trench Coat

      Skipping: Ballet Core Accessories

      Loving: Pony Hair Anything

      The ballerina aesthetic has had its moment, but it’s beginning to feel contrived this fall. Instead, I keep gravitating towards pony hair; it instantly adds a luxurious touch to any bag, shoe, or belt without needing much styling. It’s a minor detail that enhances the perceived value of an item.

      LIÉ STUDIO

      The Lou Calf Hair Shoulder Bag

      B-Low the Belt

      Kennedy Mini Calf Hair Belt

      SAINT LAURENT

      Guermantes 110 Pony Hair Slingback Pumps

      Skipping: Skullcaps

      Loving: Cummerbunds

      To be honest, skullcaps have always felt more suitable for festivals than city life. In contrast, a cummerbund belt is currently trending. Though it might be seen as menswear, when paired over trousers, jeans, or a simple dress, it can transform an entire look into something special. It’s a detail that outperforms a skullcap by far.

      Thom Browne

      Silk Faille Cummerbund Corset

      VALENTINO GARAVANI

      Plissé Satin Belt

      Pausing on Maxi Skirts

      Loving: Midi Skirt

      I’ll always have a fondness for maxi skirts, and you may still catch me wearing one, but given the fabric pooling at my feet and the limited shoe options, it’s not the most practical choice for everyday fall wear. This season, midi skirts have taken its place as my preferred style. I find myself reaching for it as the weather cools.

      Citizens of Humanity

      Nara Pencil Skirt

      Wilfred

      Fielden Linen Skirt

      Reformation

      Fleur Linen Skirt

      Pausing on Barrel Leg Jeans

      Loving: Modern Peplum

      Barrel leg jeans had their time in the spotlight, and if you're still enjoying yours, go ahead. However, their curved shape is beginning to feel more of a trend than a timeless choice. I'm now seeking pieces that will earn a lasting spot in my wardrobe. A modern peplum top fits the bill perfectly; it's a more structured and sophisticated interpretation of the silhouette compared to the ruffled styles from a decade ago, making even the simplest jeans-and-top combination look complete.

      Aritzia

      Rhodora Bustier - Crepette™

      Khaite

      Rumi Peplum Linen-Blend Top