2025 has been deemed by many on social media as the year that killed the trend cycle. Consumers grew tired of aimlessly following fashion hacks or trying on pointless styles. The concept of the “influencer” is slowly fading as audiences recognize the cost of making tone-deaf content creators richer and more successful, while watching their own finances slip. It feels like, at least from my point of view, we’re moving toward slower, more cautious attentiveness, curating our feeds, lives and energy in response to things we know will feed us, rather than drain us.
In 2026, I’m embracing the process of slow change. I don’t think we need to transform ourselves overnight, but rather blossom over time, giving ourselves 1% more effort each day and finally transitioning into a period of success. Change takes time, and is often driven by what we know we appreciate and those things we wish to discard.
So, for my first article of the new year, I want to share the items, trends, mindsets, and more that I’ll be embracing in 2026, and some that I wish to leave behind in order to start my slow transformation of success. Here are my 2026 ins and outs!
In: Movement That Makes You Feel Alive
I often find myself in a cycle of movement that makes me feel gross and heavy when I’m done. As a former athlete, I consider moving my body a daily necessity, a ritual that I need to complete. However, when movement becomes a chore rather than an enjoyable pastime, I get grossed out by the thought of even setting foot outside or into a gym. So, in 2026, I will be prioritizing movement that leaves me feeling lighter and more grateful for my ability to exercise!
Out: Branded Items
I don’t know what it is about 2026, but it feels as though we’re leaving brand worship in the past. Gone are the days when we need to prove to everyone that we have style and/or wealth — we’re going to seek out styles that inspire us. With that, in my opinion, comes the discarding of overly branded items. It’s moved from being chic to now being tacky. Quietly wearing your favorite brands is a great way to feel internally validated without the need to share it with everyone you see on your way to class.
In: Analog Activities
I have seen analog activities (a.k.a. screen-free hobbies) making a massive return over the past few months, and I have a feeling that will continue into the new year as well. We’re becoming tired of our phones, sick of what we see on social media, and ashamed when we realize all we’ve done during the day is doomscroll. Returning to slow consumption and conscious creation will be in this year, mark my words.
Out: Labeling Your Identity
I recently listened to Emma Chamberlain’s podcast, “Anything Goes”, and she made an interesting comment about her personal 2026 ins and outs. Essentially, she remarked that conflicting personalities will be in style and that the more different your interests are, the more intriguing you will be. One example she gave was a pilates princess who likes to listen to rock music.
While this insight may be new to some, I question its originality. Why are we embracing what we like and not trying to label everything? When did who we are need to become so organized, and why does having “conflicting interests” matter at all? My point is: be who you are, like what you like, and shut up about it.
In: The Second-Hand Wave
I am so, so thrilled that thrifting is in for the new year! There is truly no better feeling than when someone asks me where I bought clothing, and I can proudly say that I sourced it secondhand. This is a trend that everyone can participate in, regardless of time or budget, because sustainability is cool, and finding unique pieces with a backstory is too.
Out: Needless Consumption
I think most of us are already on board with transitioning to a more minimalist lifestyle. When I say minimalist, I don’t mean boring, beige TikTok mom minimalist. I am simply referring to living a life with what you need, rather than hoarding things because you believe they give you some sort of status. Choosing wisely and limiting yourself to purchases you truly align with will save you time, effort, and money!
In: Embracing Authenticity
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: being yourself is the best thing you can do for yourself. There is no better time than 2026 to realize that you don’t have to do a rebrand, make a sudden change, or disguise yourself as someone you’re not.
I hope the new year brings you happiness, health, new memories, and success beyond your wildest dreams! Embrace what you love, and discard what you don’t.