The Year of Joyful Style : What’s Ahead for 2026!

Goodbye quiet luxury…
2026 is not whispering — it’s smiling.

After seasons of pared-back palettes and “play it safe” dressing, fashion is shifting. And I have to say… I’m here for it. This year is about personality. It’s about joy. It’s about dressing in a way that feels alive again.

And the best part? It’s less about following rules and more about how your clothes make you feel.

Let’s talk about what’s coming.

Soft Pastels (But Make Them Grown-Up)

Pastels are having a moment — but not the sugary, childish kind. Think warm, gelato-inspired tones. Creamy lavender. Soft mint. Powder blue. Peachy blush.

These colours feel nostalgic yet modern. Gentle, but still impactful.

The key? Keep it intentional.

• A pastel blazer paired with tailored neutrals
• Wide-leg trousers in soft pink with a structured shirt
• A colour-blocked dress that does the work for you

And if you want to anchor it? Add tan, chocolate brown, grey — or even a confident pop of red.

This isn’t about looking sweet. It’s about wearing colour in a way that feels elegant and fresh.

(And as you know, the right pastel for your colouring makes all the difference. Want to know what your best suited colours are?)

Colourful Sneakers Are Stepping Forward

If your white or black sneakers are on high rotation — keep them. They’re classics.

But 2026 is adding playfulness.

Sneakers are now bold, colourful and expressive. Think yellow, emerald, cobalt, even soft lilac. They instantly lift denim, soften tailoring, and bring personality to simple outfits.

If maximal dressing feels too much, this is your entry point. One colourful sneaker can shift an entire look.

Small change. Big energy.

Maximalism Is Back — And It’s Joyful

Yes… “more is more” is officially returning.

Sequins before sunset. Prints mixed boldly. Texture layered unapologetically. Feathers, shimmer, personality.

Now, this doesn’t mean you suddenly have to dress like a disco ball. But it does mean we’re moving away from blending in.

If full maximalism feels overwhelming, start with one statement piece:

• A vibrant bag
• A bold earring
• A patterned jacket
• A stack of bangles

If it’s time to embrace or try Maximalism Style join me for my in-person Style Mastery Workshop this year where we embrace Print mixing and many other style insider info to start claiming Your Individual Maximalism Style!

Style should feel fun again. If it makes you smile — it works.

Accessories Are Doing the Talking

2026 is not shy when it comes to accessories.

Statement earrings. Layered necklaces. Textured handbags. Oversized bows. Embellished details.

Accessories are the easiest way to elevate a simple outfit. A white shirt and jeans become styled when the accessories are intentional.

This is something I always teach — it’s never just about the clothing. It’s about the finishing touches.

Texture, Texture, Texture

If your outfit feels flat, add texture.

Patent leather. Soft knits. Suede. Crochet. Fringing. Woven bags. Animal print. Subtle shimmer.

Layering different textures creates depth — and that’s what makes an outfit feel styled rather than thrown on.

For example:
Leather trousers with a cosy knit.
A floaty blouse with structured tailoring.
Sleek boots with a wool coat.

It’s the contrast that makes it interesting.

A Refined ’70s Influence

We’re seeing a return to 70s-inspired styling — but elevated.

Flowing fabrics. Brown suede. Soft metallics. Wide-leg jeans. A gentle flare re-emerging. Curtain bangs. Oversized sunglasses.

The trick is to avoid looking costume-y.

Balance softness with structure. Keep jewellery refined. Mix vintage influence with modern tailoring.

It’s bohemian… but polished!

And Here’s the Real Trend…

It’s YOU –  Individual Style is IN!

If none of these trends above resonate? That’s perfectly fine.

2026 is also the year of dressing for you.

It’s about knowing your colours. Understanding your proportions. Wearing pieces that align with who you are — not just what’s trending.

Because true style isn’t about copying a runway.
It’s about confidence.
It’s about intention.
It’s about expressing who you are before you even speak.

And that will never go out of fashion.

Here’s to a year of joyful, confident, unapologetic style. ✨

Enjoy the exploration, and as always if it is time to create your Own Individual Style, let’s chat.

In style,

Johanna-May x