When I think of 2016, I think flower crowns, booties, skinny jeans, and a playful era of social media that evokes a certain nostalgia for a simpler time. As we move through 2026, elements from a decade ago are working their way into trends as our community joins in the nostalgia of 2016 pop culture. This fall, the trends from 2016 are being reborn into modern fashion and enjoyed by Gen Z and younger Millennials. If you’re looking for some new fashion inspiration as you build your fall closet, read and reminisce!
Wedge Boots
We’re already seeing wedge sneakers being worn casually and working their way into mainstream fashion, primarily starting with the Isabel Marant Bekett sneaker that brings back the 2016 vibes. Now it’s time for the wedge boot!
Onitsuka Tiger, known for their bright-colored slim sneakers and recently launched sneaker ballet flats, used their keen eye for trends to showcase wedge boots in their Spring Summer 2026 runway show in Milan. As major designers catch on to the wedge boot’s resurgence, we may see it worn in casual fashion and around campus.
As summer transitions to fall and we all want to be a little cozier, we break out the jackets, boots, tights, and sweaters. In twenty twenty sixteen, we have moved from the slim ankle bootie to the wedge boot, the perfect way to bring a playful heel to the known and loved fall boot without compromising on functionality and comfort.
Layering
For me, layering has always been the most fun aspect of dressing for cooler weather. Not only is shedding one layer in a warm classroom after a walk to your lecture functional, but layering is a fun way to experiment with silhouettes, details, and color combinations.
Lace and transparent mesh layers have been specific elements that have been trending recently. They’ve been styled in layered outfits to add a delicate and playful side to an outfit. A little lace camisole peekaboo under a sweater, or even a strip of the fabric as a belt, acts as an eye-catching detail and adds texture and interest to any outfit.
Another layering method I have been loving lately is wearing a fun collared shirt underneath a sweater or crewneck to add pattern or an accent color to an outfit. Layering different pieces gives endless possibilities for color combinations, patterns, and textures.
sweater dresses
Comfy, warm, and versatile. Imagine it’s a chilly Tuesday, sitting around 65 degrees, and you’ve just woken up for your morning class. You’re tired and you wish you could stay in from the cold and maybe just watch Twilight while making yourself a second cup of coffee. You throw on your oversized sweater dress and your trustiest pair of boots, tie your hair in a messy bun, grab your bag, and you’re out the door.
A nice slouchy sweater dress is minimal, charming, and communicates a sense of effortlessness and ease. Not only does a bulk knit keep you warm in the brisk weather, but it gives the dress the perfect relaxed silhouette.
the classics
Even if the trends evolve or silhouettes and fabrics change, some things just stay. Half of looking forward to fall weather is getting ready to bring out the classics once again.
UGGs have been very popular for the past few years after their Tasman slippers gained popularity among Gen Z and young Millennials. UGGs live in the realm of comfort balanced with style. In 2016, the Bailey Bow and Classic UGGs were a part of many trendy cold-weather fits. As we move into fall, I think we’ll see students around campus breaking out their favorite UGG styles to call back to 2016 in comfort and aesthetic.
What better jacket to throw on with a casual outfit than a denim jacket? Although I love fall weather, sometimes finding the right jacket so that I don’t end up too hot or too cold can be a struggle. The denim jacket will be returning to our fall outfits as usual, but this time with its 2016 oversized silhouette and flair. This fall, think Kendall Jenner model off-duty jacket styling, 90s-inspired denim washes, and off-the-shoulder cuts.
As we approach the time of the season with fall festivities, chilly walks to class, and midterm exams, why not dress with the playfulness of 2016? It’s time to break out your fall favorites, throw on The Chainsmokers, and bring the twenty twenty sixteen vibes to your closet!