Now that the holidays are over and we are moving along through January it is time to think about Spring. The runway shows for the Spring/Summer season were held in September. That is also when the colors are chosen by Pantone.

Leatrice Eiseman tells us “Colors for Spring/Summer 2026 continue the drumbeat for honesty, authenticity and desire to put our own unique stamp on what wear. The balance of colors that boldly celebrate the joyfulness of dressing with trans-seasonal neutrals and calming minimalist tones create new looks free from constraint.”

And as we know, Cloud Dancer is the color of the year for 2026

Print and Pattern Trends

Vogue sees the following as the trends to start off the season. I’ll keep you posted as things develop as we get into the season.

1. BAMBI prints-animal prints continue, but these are now “dappled fawn spots”, soft woodland prints.
2. 3D florals and botanical prints– florals are stepping out into sculptural forms- appliques, layered organza, fabric manipulations and subtle embellishments, petals visibly lifting off of garments. This includes delicate raised embroidery to oversize blooms.
3. Ruffles and Lace-Romantic, feminine, refined boho influences. You will see Chantilly lace and cascading ruffles. Expect romantic feminine styles using lace and ruffles as “core design language for 2026”.
4. Polka Dots, Checks and Plaids- pattern mixing gets bold. Geometric prints take over in 2026. Scale and layering are the statements. Polka Dots from micro to oversized are in the same garment with plaid. There will be windowpane, gingham and houndstooth. Plaids will be both traditional and unexpected. Patterns will all mix in a single look.
5. Vintage and Costume Silhouettes- In London there were Baroque inspirations, damask-like florals and ornate botanical motifs in jewel tones and metallic. In Paris, reimagined Fifties and Sixties- gingham, retro florals and classic polka dots.
6. Color Blocking and DOPAMINE Dressing. I love this!! Color blocking has been dubbed “dopamine dressing”. This is wearing clothes that punch up your mood and confidence. Here we are talking about high impact color and bold contrast. All of the runway shows paired unexpected colors- bubblegum pink with lime, sunny yellow with sky blue, hot pink with cherry red. This brings on JOY! It is mood boosting.

Enjoy the upcoming season. Express your individuality through style and color. In February I’ll let you know what is starting to land at the retailers.