While TikTok and Instagram often dominate conversations about Gen Z's favorite platforms, Pinterest is steadily growing as a significant influence among those under 30.
The visual search engine has become a go-to mood checker on fashion, beauty and interiors, making its annual Pinterest Predicts report a surprisingly accurate fashion crystal ball.
In recent years, the report has successfully forecast trends ranging from the “summer of the tomato girls” to the reform of “quiet luxury.”
This year's data suggests a definitive move away from the rationalization of “stealth wealth.” Instead, expect a maximalist resurgence, with '80s silhouettes, bold jewelery and a new take on utilitarian khaki set to define next year's style landscape.
It's a lineup that sounds chaotic on paper, but actually reflects a broader shift in the way people want to dress, with more personality and a willingness to lean into nostalgia.
To break down the trends and explain how to wear them without looking like you stepped out of a time capsule, we asked celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson to decode the five biggest looks that will dominate 2026.
1. Maximalist brooches and jewelry
Maximalism is back, not in the chaotic, everything-at-once sense of 2010s festival jewelry, but in a more retro, high-fashion way. And according to Ranson, brooches are the easiest entry point.
With Chanel's return last season thanks to new creative director Matthieu Blazy, fueling the resurgence, Ranson notes that “Chanel is probably one of the best places where we see inspiration for brooches and all that retro vintage style that's coming back.”
But forget the fussy pearl clusters of years past. Ranson emphasizes: “I would avoid pearls [so as not to look outdated] and opt for gold or silver; wear a brooch instead of your statement earrings.”
When it comes to what to wear it with, she says, “we're making shoulder pads now.” […] You could put a small brooch on a blouse with shoulder pads; It can be a really subtle and charming way. [to finish a look].”
The key is to lean on modern shiny metals and stay away from aged brass and pearls so as not to look too dated.
H&M Metal Brooch, £12.99
Zara Brooch Knitted Jumper, £35.99
2. Icy blues and heavenly whites
When it comes to the 2026 color palette, Pinterest users overwhelmingly favor frosted blues, moonlit whites, and pearlescent textures, but how do you incorporate holography if you're used to dusty grays and denim?
Ranson says an easy way to experiment with these is to swap them out with the basics.
“Think about your basic elements and your base pieces,” he says. “Swap your white t-shirt for an icy blue t-shirt, instead of trying to wear a flashy holographic blue jacket.”
If pearly whites are too much for you, Ranson recommends trying accents from the color family: “maybe a light blue bag or a blue pump in a simple, basic style.”
Incorporating a palette of trendy colors into your basics helps turn your everyday wardrobe into something fresher and more current.
& Other Stories Sheer Long Sleeve Top, £32
Per Una Sheer Sequin Embellished Fitted Vest and Ribbed Top, £46, M&S
3. Clumsy, baggy and daring
The 80s are back. The stranglehold of minimalism is officially loosening and we're entering an era of volume: full circle skirts, wide shoulders, oversized belts, and full-length silhouettes all around.
“I'm really excited that maximalism is back because I'm a little bored of beige,” Ranson laughs. But he is quick to warn that becoming a maximalist is a fast track to feeling overwhelmed.
Their rule of thumb is one bulky piece at a time.
“Think about your proportions,” she explains, “maybe wear a full skirt but then a slimmer blouse or a fitted jacket with jeans.”
She adapts the clients' choices to their height – “Ferne McCann [who’s 5’8″] could get away with a lot more shoulder padding,” he says, “whereas Dani Dyer [who’s 5’1″] Being smaller, she could surpass her body.”
She says petite people may prefer a fitted waist with softer shoulders; while taller silhouettes can lean more towards drama.
“More is more, it's really fun,” he says. “[this trend] “It’s very Carrie Bradshaw, big belts are massive, experimental silhouettes – it feels a little more fun than the 2025 trends.”
Maniere De Voir Marie Belted Twisted Sleeve Tailored Blazer, £180
Cos Twist Barrel Leg Jeans, £119
4. Tied
Lace, once linked to demure and appropriate coquetry, is entering a new era.
Searches on Pinterest increase for lace stockings, lace embellishments and sheer lace details thanks to the catwalks of Dior and Bora Aksu; However, most buyers are not looking to dress like a dancer.
“Lace is complicated: You either love it or you don't,” Ranson says. Her advice is to microdose the trend: don't opt for full looks.
“They could be small, minor gestures: a lace pocket, a lace hem, a lace T-shirt under a jacket.” Even lace chokers and scarves are making a resurgence, she says, which are inexpensive ways to try out the trend.
For those who find lace too delicate, Ranson recommends contrast: “Pair it with something a little more masculine: an oversized jacket, wide-leg pants, even jeans.”
Zara ZW Collection Lace Cami Top, £39.99
5. Khaki color coded
Utility jackets aren't new, but workwear with pockets is becoming the go-to style of 2026.
According to Pinterest, structured safari-style jackets designed in earthy palettes are gaining popularity.
But when it comes to wearing shades, desert neutrals are tricky and raise the universal question: What if I bleach myself out?
“I love camel beige, but it completely washes me out,” says Ranson. She is skeptical of rigid color analysis, explaining that a client's results once contradicted everything she would have personally chosen for him.
Instead, his approach is easy and practical.
“Every time I wear certain colors, I remember the compliments I get,” she says, “I think it's a good way to learn what looks good on you.”
If beige dulls you, try olive or pistachio. If icy neutrals brighten your eyes, lean toward them. “Does your skin look smoother? Are your eyes brighter? Take note,” she says.
Holland Cooper Artillery Jacket, £179
