Fashion designer Jan Paul Martinez explains that trends for 2026 reflect a world in transition to the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), where evolving technologies reshape how we live and perform daily tasks. 

“There is a clear pattern – a shift toward slower, more intentional choices,” he states. “This may be an unconscious response to a fast-changing world marked by global uncertainty and purposeful living.”

“2026 is a year when consumers seek meaning, comfort, creativity and authenticity in what they wear, while designers respond with collections that honor craft, celebrate individuality, and embrace versatility,” he adds. 

Martinez, an educator with the Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) Program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), explains trends evolve into more emotionally grounded expressions. 

Fashion designer and Benilde Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) educator Jan Paul Martinez. 

“It is about reconciling contradictions,” he declares. “It is a period where we redirect ourselves toward nostalgia infused with innovation, rebellion balanced with softness, and practicality paired with play.”

To guide the general public, Martinez rounds up next year’s style directions per giant trend forecast WGSN. 

The forecaster comprises a team of over 250 experts and data scientists that curate an immense online library of insights and inspirations in fashion, retail, and the whole lifestyle industry.

Romantic legacy reigns womenswear as today’s youth shows interest in historical themes. Influences include cultural touchpoints such as Netflix series Bridgerton and popstar Charli XCX’s red-carpet look by Ludovic de Saint Sernin. Lace -up dresses and corsets emphasize femininity. 

Martinez, who specializes in occasion wear, adds these are ideal looks for weddings and anniversaries. Think: tiered dresses in soft hues and voluminous silhouettes which channel main-character, hyper-feminine energy. Sculpted and youthful minidresses are also a staple from casual hangouts to partywear. 

In contrast, feminine grit comes with its youth-driven, bewitched-inspired attitude. Themes of resistance and dark romance with flowing maxi dresses with laces or ruffles will be in vogue. To lean into the pretty but tough aesthetic, complement these soft sheers with distressed finishes, raw edges, or leather pieces trimmed with metal hardware. 

For a dopamine boost, playful paradox is the way to go. Amid today’s fractious and polarizing challenges, it highlights how creativity can spark fresh ideas, unexpected solutions, and much-needed moments of joy. 

“It thrives on contrast: serious yet playful, retro yet modern, childlike yet grown-up,” Martinez shares. “It is about flipping perspectives to uncover new and surprising possibilities.”

Taking a stand against toxic diet culture and championing diverse body sizes remains essential. Designers push back by creating silhouettes which reject conventional body ideals.

Demure lux curates a slow and robust form of luxury. Choose fit-and-flare dresses in subtle textures and brushed finishes made from premium materials. Key fabrics include leather and tweed. 

In line with the subverted office wear, new power dressing pushes the limits of traditional corporate dress codes. Reworked shirts and playful collars refresh classic button-downs, while blazers and jackets clinched at the waist bring a new take on the previously oversized style. 

Wellness headlines menswear – it comes with a challenge to the traditional definition of strength. Invest in natural fibers that offer skin-friendly comfort and inherent performance properties. Even sweatpants, according to the expert, fosters a sense of grounding and connection with nature.

“Wellness robes and restorative knit garments promote comfort and restoration through cocooning layers, inclusive designs and tactile knit structures,” he notes. “Featuring adaptive silhouettes, ribbed textures and soft, soothing materials, these pieces are reimagined to support relaxation and meet diverse wearer needs.” 

The young professional look remains in the men’s department. Opt for versatile pieces that transition from work events to weekends – all with a low-key luxury feel. 

“Elevate casual button-downs and slim trousers with updated textiles, and layer them with a cardigan for added depth and value,” Martinez recommends. “Key pieces include neckties, reworked shirts and modern takes on classic polos.” 

Redefining masculinity continues to grow in 2026. “Adventurous consumers seek unconventional options in an otherwise monotonous market,” Martinez explains.

His tip: push the boundaries of traditional gender-specific norms with embellished denims. Ruffles and other ornate details on traditional staples make for a diverse take.

Tactile craft and elaborate decorations are in, due to the continuous rise of DIY crafts and upcycled clothing. To set one’s rules in dressing, don statement adornments such as brooches, badges, and studs.

“Celebrate traditional embroidery and appliqué by developing layered and stitched details,” Martinez adds. “Use woven tapes, lace inserts, ruffles, and embroidery techniques to add playful patterning and personal expression to plain bases.”

For accessories, the messenger bag is the preferred carry-all with its functional features which suit the on-the-go consumer. Practical options that are much-loved across all genders include structured cross-body bags in playful textures, plus totes in east-west shapes. Prioritize seasonal updates with natural materials and be smart with storage solutions. 

Good news: Trinkets are still very much in. Small accessories continue to add a touch of novelty to larger styles. Now, they have expanded into categories like eyewear, beauty, and jewelry. 

For footwear, biker boots reflect the autonomist consumer profile of 2026. Strengthen longevity with responsible leather and experiment with textures and hardware. 

For those who wish to embrace restorative softness through tactile materials and detailing, the dainty Mary Jane is a pick. Consider striking fabrications to introduce freshness and standout in a saturated market. Speaking of toe-square influences, penny loafers remain in 2026. Refresh with new materials or textures for a modern update.