The 3 Fashion Trends I’m Letting Go of in 2026—And What I’m Wearing Instead

Here’s how I’m revamping my wardrobe for the new year.

Angela Fink wearing a black jacket; Angela Fink wearing a fur coat; Angela Fink wearing a leopard print top
(Image credit: Angela Fink)

As 2026 swiftly approaches, I’ve decided to re-examine my capsule wardrobe. Ahead, I’ve shared the three trends that I’m gently pushing toward the back of my closet, along with the styles that I plan to rewear in the new year.

If you’d like to follow my lead, it’s worth remembering that some items are simply meant to be placed on pause—there’s no need to donate or sell them yet! Releasing doesn’t always mean letting go completely; it can simply refer to the concept of making space.

After all, fashion is cyclical, and when we allow pieces to rest, we give ourselves room to rediscover them with fresh eyes.

Releasing (for Now): Mini Skirts

Rewearing: Pencil Skirts

Angela Fink wearing a blue top, a fur coat, and heels

(Image credit: Angela Fink)

Although designers like Miu Miu have championed thigh-skimming mini skirts these past few seasons, I’ve found myself leaning toward the cleaner, quieter confidence of a pencil skirt. Styled with a tall boot and a rich cozy sweater—or a wrap jacket—the proportion of a pencil skirt feels smart and intentional. It’s classic but not boring, and its restrained silhouette embraces a subtle ‘90s sass.

A quick note on texture: pony hair anything is really speaking to me right now—especially when it shows up in accessories or footwear, grounding the look with a little edge. And colorwise, I’m fully welcoming baby blue paired with chocolate brown. This trending color combination is soft, chic, and very modern.

Releasing (for Now): Oversized Blazers

Rewearing: Fitted Jackets

Angela Fink wearing a jacket, jeans, and heels

(Image credit: Angela Fink)

Don’t get me wrong—I love an oversized blazer, and there will always be a moment for one. But right now, I’m welcoming a return to tailored, fitted jackets that create shape. Buttoned all the way down and perfectly structured, it’s a sculpted style that’s meant to be seen.

The jacket pictured above is vintage Karl Lagerfeld, with a subtle peplum construction, pockets, and beautiful buttoned detailing throughout. I styled it with vintage 501s and a satin pump for contrast—sharp and soft in equal measure. What I love most is that it doesn’t need anything underneath. The jacket is the top. Dress it up or dress it down, it carries the look on its own either way.

I’m always drawn to pieces like this: thoughtful, hard-working, and endlessly versatile. The kind that earns its place in your closet.

Releasing (for Now): Solid Colors

Rewearing: Animal Prints

Angela Fink wearing a cheetah print top, white pants, and heels

(Image credit: Angela Fink)

If there’s one thing we can count on in fashion, it’s that animal prints always come back around—and I’m ready for their return. I’ve been wearing this chiffon leopard button-down for a while now, and I’ll happily continue. It feels timeless but expressive, familiar yet confident.

Here, I styled it with a pair of cream tailored trousers, tonal heels, and a long ’70s-style chain. The balance is key: letting the print speak while everything else stays soft and grounded. Animal print works best when it feels intentional—not loud, but assured.

Overall, this edit is less about chasing what’s next and more about curating with intention. The goal here isn’t to create a new wardrobe, but to assemble a smarter one—one that evolves quietly, confidently, and in its own time.

Angela Fink
Creative and Writer

Angela Fink is a content creator, co-founder of Dumont Creative, and former celebrity stylist; she also authors the popular Substack Don't Over Fink It. She's worked with celebrities including Kim Kardashian, Kate Hudson, and Zoe Saldana, and marketed for houses such as Chanel, Hermès, Chloé, and more.