Brooches, icy blues and broad shoulders: what trends can we expect to see in 2026

LARA OWEN chats to celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson about the biggest style shifts predicted for the new year.
Brooches, icy blues and broad shoulders: what trends can we expect to see in 2026

Expect to see plenty of broad style blazers this year. Picture: Alamy/PA

Pinterest has become the go-to visual search engine for mood boarding fashion, beauty and interiors. So the platform’s annual Pinterest Predicts report has become a strangely accurate fashion crystal ball over the past few years – forecasting everything from the rise of tomato-girl summer to the quiet luxury overhaul. According to the latest data, we’re leaving streamlined stealth-wealth behind, and are about to enter a year defined by maximalist jewellery, 1980s silhouettes and a fresh take on utilitarian khaki.

1. Brooches and maximalist jewellery

Maximalism is back – not in the chaotic, everything-at-once sense – but in a more retro, couture way. And according to Ranson, brooches are the easiest entry point. With Chanel’s comeback last season, thanks to new creative director Matthieu Blazy, fuelling the revival, Ranson notes that “Chanel is probably one of the best places that we see inspiration for brooches and that whole vintage retro styling that’s coming back.” But forget the fussy pearl clusters of years past. Ranson stresses: “go for gold or silver – use a brooch instead of your statement earrings.”

2. Icy blues and celestial whites

When it comes to 2026’s colour palette, Pinterest users are overwhelmingly pinning frosted blues, moonlit whites and pearlescent textures – but how do you incorporate holographic if you’re used to dusty grey and denim?

Ranson says an easy way to experiment with these is to swap them with your basics. “Switch your white T-shirt for an icy blue T-shirt – rather than trying to wear a statement holographic blue blazer.”

3. Clunky, baggy and bold

We’re entering an era of volume – sweeping circle skirts, big shoulders, oversized belts and all-round capacious silhouettes.

“I am so excited that maximalism is back,” Ranson laughs. But she’s quick to warn that going full maximalist is a fast track to feeling swamped. Her golden rule is one volumised piece at a time.

4. Laced up

Pinterest searches are up for lace tights, lace trims and sheer lace detailing thanks to the runways of Dior and Bora Aksu – yet most shoppers aren’t looking to dress like a ballerina.

“Lace is a tricky one – you either love it or you really don’t,” says Ranson. Her advice is to micro dose the trend – don’t go with full looks. It could just be little, minor nods – a lace pocket, a lace hem, a lace cami under a blazer.”

5. Khaki Coded

Utility jackets aren’t new, but the pocketed workwear is becoming the go-to style of 2026.

Structured safari-style jackets styled in earthy palettes are soaring in popularity, according to Pinterest.

But when it comes to tonal dressing – desert neutrals are tricky, bidding the universal question: What if it washes me out?

“I love camel beige, but it completely washes me out,” Ranson says. Her approach is easy and practical. “Whenever I wear certain colours, I’ll remember what compliments I get,” she says, “I think that’s a good way to learn what suits you.” If beige dulls you, try olive or pistachio. If icy neutrals brighten your eyes, lean into them.”

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