Outdated Fashion Trends To Purge From Your Closet In 2026

If you've been a passenger on the fashion merry-go-round for a little while, then you're well aware that trends tend to come back around eventually, sometimes sooner rather than later, and 2026 is no exception. Like any year, there's an excitement that comes with re-evaluating our wardrobes and deciding what we can purge from our closets, including fashion pieces that are making us look older and anything else that's not making us feel our best. That leads us to the following question: What are the outdated fashion trends that we should consider ditching for 2026?

Below, you'll find some pieces that won't be making you look on top of your style game this year, from outerwear that's reminiscent of yesteryear to general movements like minimalism being put on the back burner. But don't worry: As we know, fashion always comes back around, so don't throw out pieces you really like. Instead, store them until they come back in a few years (or sooner!). In the meantime, you'll likely appreciate having space in your closet to focus on the wardrobe pieces you do want to have in rotation this year.

It's heavier than a shirt but lighter than a jacket — that's right: It's the shacket! Fall 2023 was prime shacket season, but after a few solid years, it's time to retire the shacket as a style star in your wardrobe. So, what are the jacket options coming back into style for 2026? For starters, anything with a funnel neck is great, as it gives great French-girl flavor and is also a favorite of Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen. Or, try a cropped style, a cape jacket, or anything with texture (more on that later).

The preppy blazer is also making a comeback. As minimalism takes a back seat in '26, look for maximalist details, like bold brass buttons on a double-breasted blazer. A long-line silhouette works, but as the year progresses, we'll see a return to styles that are more fitted and cinched at the waist. 

It's not so much that flat textures such as basic cotton are out; it's more that texture is in, in, and also in for 2026. Get ready to indulge in faux fur, satin, nubby cozy sweaters, tweed, pony or calf hair, and suede. And with the cornucopia of texture on hand, why fall back on basics when you can elevate the tactile elements of your outfits?

This year, it's time to relegate the flat textures to the back of the closet. Wearing them could also make you feel a bit blah; instead, you could be embracing all the delightful sensory style delights on offer. Bonus: Common clothing textures often work really well together. Think satin pants or a satin skirt with a thick wool sweater, or a suede skirt paired with a cashmere top or leather jacket. And rather than basic accessories, consider a pony hair bag or shoes.

There was something about the pandemic era that had fashion chill out a bit, almost as if boldness was offensive at the time. Well, 2026 is going to be known as the year that loud luxury returned. There are many ways to interpret the trend, so don't worry if you're not into wearing 12 different patterns, textures, and OTT accessories à la Carrie Bradshaw. The important thing with this trend is that you banish minimalism.

For starters, ditch all-black outfits. Instead, it's time to add color back in. Light blues are everywhere, so even if you don't want a loud color, you can still add it in to be on-trend for '26. You'll see a lot more outfits with character, meaning it's okay to be bold in your statements again. Jewelry is chunkier, too. If you're determined to wear your delicate pieces, the best option this year is to layer them to add some depth and strength to the look.

Denim silhouettes seem to be bouncing around a bit in 2026, with fuller legs, including barrel styles and wide-leg trousers, still making the rounds, but we're also seeing the return of slimmer styles. Does that mean anything goes for jeans this year?

Not exactly. One specific style can be relegated to the back of the closet or donated: distressed denim. This style misses the mark of the luxe vibe that's been hitting runways. Not to sound like a scratched CD, but distressed denim will have its moment again in years to come, so if you love it, don't feel obliged to throw it out. To properly rock your denim, opt for dark-blue washes, or you can reach for black or even cream if you prefer. Finally, jeans' rise appear to be dropping, with more and more low-rise waistlines on the horizon. You know what to do!

While everything about current fashion trends is pointing to more, more, more, that doesn't necessarily extend to footwear. In fact, chunky shoes are one of the outdated shoe trends for 2026 to be aware of. It's time to stash your lug soles, thick-heeled biker boots, and chunky sneakers for now.

Instead, footwear is centering delicate silhouettes, but they aren't necessarily minimal. Pointy-toe heels are back, and floral prints on footwear are everywhere, as are other feminine details like bows and ribbons. And for those who wear sneakers on rotation, slim or low-profile sneaks are where it's at for '26. Loafer mules are another great workwear option for those who prefer a comfy flat that's elevated. Oh, and don't forget those textures.

What other style newness should be on your radar this year? Check out the hottest hair trends for 2026 next.