From the King Kylie Era to Coachella and Los Angeles vloggers, 2016 was the year that defined much of how fashion changed, introducing athleisure and incorporating expressive statement pieces into everyday outfits. Fashion trends trickle down over time, so what was considered old and outdated has come back, just with its modern twists.
Personally, I’m always excited to see new fashion trends in the new year, but it can range from different eras. I’ve recently noticed that the current pieces in my shopping cart or pinned to my Pinterest boards all resemble that 2016 aesthetic. Here are some of those pieces that really make me think, are we travelling back in time?
- Ballet Flats
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I was waiting for these to come back in style because, while kitten heels are adorable, I still get blisters and my feet hurt after walking in them too long. Ballet flats are the perfect medium that are still cute and elegant. Recently, I’ve seen lots of lace or mesh flats paired with jeans or pants.
While ballet flats are leaning more towards the 2010s era, they were still a popular piece in 2016. They were usually paired with skinny jeans and scarves, but they had their spotlight. I can see them in the coming year paired with more wide-leg jeans and chunky gold jewelry.
- Chokers
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Whether you hated it or loved it, the black wire choker had a hold over so many people, me included! This specific choker hasn’t shown any signs of resurgence, but chokers have come back with a modern twist, which I’m obsessed with. Instead of a mainly black palette, these tie choker necklaces have been scouted among various universities at their Saturday football games.
This has been in the form of thin scarves wrapped around the neck as an added accessory and a pop of color to the outfit. I can also see this evolving to chunky gold chokers, building on to a necklace stack. It’s something I’ll definitely be adding to my football game day looks!
- Rhinestones
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While gold is definitely having its moment, gold or silver studs have been incorporated into so many different accessories as well. Whether it’s bags, tops, or ballet flats, I think they’re going to make a comeback in the 2026 fashion scene.
In 2016, studs and rhinestones were everywhere. They gave shorts a little extra sparkle, made bags a statement piece, and even stood out on jeans as well. This can elevate any outfit, and is making its resurgence, but better.
- Off-The-Shoulder
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The off-the-shoulder look is very much back and running. Cut casual shirts or knitted sweaters intentionally hemmed on one shoulder have been highlighted this year. Back in 2016, the entire shoulder was shown off, usually in the form of sweaters that were folded over.
Right now, the asymmetrical look is in; however, I think in the upcoming 2026 year we’ll see more fashion designs showing off the shoulder, paired with the silhouette of wide-leg or straight jeans and jewelry. If you haven’t already cut some of your crewnecks or shirts, you probably will in 2026!
- Knee-High Boots
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Rather than the clunky combat boots that were popular in 2019, we’ve reverted to the black or brown knee-high leather boots. They were popular in 2016 Coachella outfits with suede fabric, and during the winter with skinny jeans. Now they’re worn in a similar style, but with different fabrics and paired with more modern pieces.
In 2026, they’ll give off “I have my life together even if I absolutely don’t” energy. Boots in any style give outfits that kick off confidence without trying too hard. With the return of minimalism and more tailored silhouettes, they’ll fit the moments of 2026.
Clothes and accessories will always cycle through, but what makes it so special is that it’s never really the same thing twice. Items are added alongside other silhouettes, or the item itself has changed in the way it’s worn. So even though most things on this list have references to the 2016 era, we’ll make 2026 its own.
Despite any of my own predictions, wear what you want! Fashion is all about expressiveness, and that’s all this is. However, if you see Victoria’s Secret PINK making a comeback, too, don’t be too surprised!
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