Here I am writing a blog post about fall trends for 2026, and I have a confession!
I haven’t started my fall shopping…okay, well except for the pair of booties I bought last week at the end of a very long day…More on those later.
Even though I personally prefer summer clothes, and I’ve really been figuring out what I need for fall, I’ve been researching and browsing the fall trends.
So today I’m sharing the 7 Fall Trends for 2026 that I’ll be adding to my professional wardrobe…and 1 trend I’m thinking about adding…but not for the office.
There are actually a lot of trends this year, but luckily none of them are necessarily trendy. (I know–clear as mud, right?)
In other words, as always I’m bringing you fresh ways you can update your wardrobe. Here are a few now and as the season goes on, I’ll share more of my takes with you!
The Fall Color Trend I’m Buying: Grey & Burgundy
I already warned you, not all of the trends this year aren’t going to be groundbreaking, LOL!
Y’all, I love grey! It’s friendlier to more skin tones than black. And it’s a little different. Obviously you can wear grey and black together, but for a chic look, try an all grey ensemble, varying shades and textures.
OR I’ve had my heart set on pairing my grey pants (that are on my shopping list) with BURGUNDY, actually for a few years now.
Let’s be honest, grey and burgundy aren’t ever out. My pairing is all going to depend on the comfort of those new booties I mentioned earlier; I ALWAYS wear new shoes around the house to make sure they’re comfortable.
The above mentioned booties are BURGUNDY! I’ve tried finding burgundy shoes/boots for a few years now, and haven’t been able to find the exact shade I’m looking for…that fit and are comfortable, too.
WHY I'M RECOMMENDING THIS TREND: It probably goes without saying that grey and burgundy are perennial favorite fall colors, so investing in these hues will allow you to continue building your wardrobe with them over time. You won’t be starting all over next fall!
Not a fan of grey or burgundy? Not a problem! Brown (link to post) is STILL the biggest neutral on the market.
(NOTE: If brown is your favorite neutral, buy it, because once the fashion industry decides it’s not “in” anymore, it’ll be hard to find! I’ve definitely seen this happen before!)
Click through any of the photos for more details or to shop. (I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you.)
The Fall Print Trend I’m Buying: Plaid
Plaid is of course almost synonymous with fall, but I’m always on the hunt for unique pieces, so I’m thinking of a plaid silky, asymmetrical hem skirt…still plaid but unexpected.
Potentially being on a long search for said silky plaid skirt I just described, I may buy a plaid shirt. I’m pretty sure I just shocked some of you!
True, plaid flannels aren’t really my thing, definitely not a professional look.
But the plaid shirts from Rails are an exception. First off, they’ve got a great drape, and they’re a perfect weight for a casual family gathering when it’s too warm to be sitting around the house in a sweater.
WHY I'M RECOMMENDING THIS TREND: Plaid is not only a classic pattern, but it also consists of straight lines, which convey authority. Truly, you can’t go wrong with a plaid blazer, blouse, sweater or pants this season!
The Fall Blazer Trend I’m Buying: Fitted Blazers
Oversized blazers have been the frontrunners for a while now, but they seem to be taking a backseat to fitted blazers in a variety of lengths.
In the category of fitted blazers, there are several options. And luckily, they can all create a flattering, professional look!
- BodyCon–these are typically collarless, button all the way up and are potentially a replacement for a blouse. (In other words, ya probably won’t be able to wear a blouse underneath it.)
- Peplum–Originally popular in the 1940’s, peplum jackets are fitted through your natural waist and flare out below it, creating a flattering effect for a lot of body types.
- Traditional single or double breasted slightly cropped, mid-hip and lower hip length plaids, solids and tweeds.
WHY I'M RECOMMENDING THIS TREND: A fact I love to share is that taller people make more money! Any time you can add a tailored jacket, it gives your body more stature, i.e. mental authority!
Get these jackets while they’re hot! Once the fashion industry decides they’re not the trend, they’ll be hard to find.
The Fall Outerwear Trend I’m Buying: Funnel Neck Jackets
First introduced in the 1950’s, funnel neck coats and jackets are back and have taken hold for 2026. A lightweight funnel neck jacket is actually on the very top of my fall shopping list*, since I lost my beloved denim jacket last year 😳.
(*To top business casual and casual outfits for cool but not cold weather.)
WHY I'M RECOMMENDING THIS TREND: Like so many of the styles that are hot right now, funnel neck jackets, which are mostly outerwear, won’t really ever be “out”. Worst case scenario, at some point, the style could give off vintage vibes, which is always pretty cool!
*Never fear, denim jackets are a classic and still in style! Other trending styles for fall 2026 include barn jackets and cropped trench coats.
The Fall Jewelry Trend I’m “Buying”: Brooches!
Both antique and modern brooches are back in style this year.
I actually have quite a few antique brooches, both family heirlooms and some I bought at a conference. For my “something new” (Ha ha!) I have a super cute Paris themed brooch my sister gave me.
There’s really no right or wrong way to wear brooches, however, they feel most modern when worn in multiples. I saw a photo of a blazer with one lapel completely filled with brooches…very cool and a great way to set yourself apart in a business casual setting.
WHY I'M RECOMMENDING THIS TREND: Accessories are always important for professional dress! Not only do they finish your look, brooches can easily be a conversation starter at a networking event.
Fall Handbag Trend I’m Buying: An East West Bag
n case you’re not familiar with the term (I wasn’t until recently,) an east west bag is basically a rectangle, much longer than it is tall.
After investing in a gorgeous burgundy Coach bag several seasons ago, I’m ready for something new. Of course, I’m keeping the Coach and will be looking for a less expensive version of the trend.
Not a fan of the East West style? Another trend I’m starting to see is the Bowling Bag. It’s not literally a bowling bag, just kind of the shape. It’s definitely roomier!
WHY I'M RECOMMENDING THIS TREND: So many women are forgoing handbags these days! Keeping all of your necessities in a handbag is simply more professional than having your phone and keys on the table, whether it’s at a restaurant or the board room. You’ll look more present and organized.
Fall Denim Trend I’m Buying: Dark Denim
The denim landscape this fall is pretty much…anything goes! But the trend that’s “newest” and most prevalent is DARK DENIM.
I’m talking dark, as in no distressing or fading at all. And I’m in!
And here’s why I’m buying and recommending this trend:
- I don’t have anything like it.
- Being dark and rigid, it reads professional.
- It can sub in for black pants in a lot of cases.
I honestly don’t wear jeans very much because, at least for a first appointment with a client, I like to be a little dressier and think I can break my own rule from time to time with the dark denim.
The other reason I don’t wear jeans very often is that high rises have prevailed for several years, and being short waisted (i.e. short torso) they haven’t been all that comfortable.
BUT the fashion industry is finally giving us both mid and low rises! (Break out the champagne–I’m seriously celebrating!)
So I’m buying Dark Denim in a low rise style! (Trust me, on my body they’re not that low, just comfy!)
The Fall Trend I Love But I’m Saving for Off-Duty: Lace Trim
Over the summer I saw a lot of lace trim both on skirts and shorts. At the time, it looked to me like slips and tap pants–lingerie!
This season there appears to be lace trimmed everything! And while the trend is really growing on me, it still gives off major lingerie vibes, (not so professional,) so I’m suggesting keeping it for ✷off-duty✷ at least for now.
And that’s a wrap! Those are the Fall Fashion Trends for 2026 I’m excited about adding to my wardrobe. And as always, I’ll probably find a few more as the season goes on!
Of course, you don’t need every trend. (Truth be told, I probably don’t either, but I didn’t buy much last year, so there’s that 🤣)
Lastly, I want to make sure that I don’t automatically mean that YOU need the same trends or pieces I’m buying. I highly recommend choosing the ones that work with your style, your body and your life…and leave the rest at the store!
Before You Start Shopping the Fall Fashion Trends for 2026…
Trends are fun. (Clearly, since I’m already plotting what I’m buying!) But before you start adding new pieces to your wardrobe, make sure you have the right foundation.
That’s where my 5 Must-Have Pieces That Make Dressing Easier (They’re NOT What You Expect!) comes in.