8 Celebrity-Backed Trends I’m Copying to Look Elegant and Cool This Year
I always look to my favourite celebrities for style inspo, especially at this time of year. Scroll on to see the eight celebrity-backed fashion trends I'm copying in 2026.
- 8 Celebrity Fashion Trends to Note for 2026:
- 1. Alexa Chung: Sporty Trousers
- 2. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley: Giant Sunglasses
- 3. Laura Harrier: Sleek Leather Jackets
- 4. Kendall Jenner: Cobalt Blue
- 5. Olivia Dean: Kilt Skirts
- 6. Sofia Grainge: Animal Print Flats
- 7. Emily Ratajkowski: Chunky Necklaces
- 8. Simone Ashley: Halter Tops
I know the whole “new year, new me” thing is overrated, but there’s something about January that makes small changes feel appealing. It feels like a natural time to realign my goals, finally tackle things I’ve been putting off (hello, wardrobe cleanse), and, looking ahead to 2026, rediscover my personal style. I’m definitely in a bit of a rut at the moment, largely because I’m mid-house move and my clothes are in total chaos. A big clear-out is looming, and I’m planning to adopt a one-in-one-out policy going forward. With plenty heading to the charity shop, I want to start January by investing in a few key pieces that will make my wardrobe feel fresh in the new house. And where better to look for inspiration than scrolling through Instagram and stalking some of the most stylish celebrities?
So, what can we expect from celebrity fashion in 2025? Well, we can always rely on Alexa Chung to wear an unlikely outfit, and I love that she's bringing back tailored track pants. Considering they were also spotted at the Lacoste spring/summer 2026 show in bright retro form, it’s practically confirmed that these are the trousers to invest in. And when it comes to jackets, Laura Harrier has made me want to put my classic leather biker jacket to one side in favour of a sleek, fuss-free alternative. As someone ready to kick off their boots already, I’ll be trying out animal print flats, as seen on Sofia Grainge, as soon as it gets warmer. These chic women know how to deliver endless inspiration, but these are the 8 celebrity-backed trends I know will be big news for the seasons ahead.
8 Celebrity Fashion Trends to Note for 2026:
1. Alexa Chung: Sporty Trousers
Style Notes: Whether it's Alexa Chung-style tailored pairs or retro styles seen on the SS26 runways at Lacoste, track pants are going to be a mainstay in your wardrobe from now on.
Shop the Trend:
2. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley: Giant Sunglasses
Style Notes: Skinny 90s shades have taken over in recent years, but Rosie HW has called it, huge take-over-you-face aviators are back. Loewe, Bottega Venenta and Tom Ford all agree, so don't sit on this trend.
Shop the Trend:
3. Laura Harrier: Sleek Leather Jackets
Style Notes: We've had funnel necks, oversized bikers and bombers, but for 2026, leather jackets have had a super slick makeover. Minimalists will appreciate the fuss-free details, clean lines and easy-to-style silhouettes.
Shop the Trend:
4. Kendall Jenner: Cobalt Blue
Style Notes: Bold blue outerwear was all over the spring/summer 2026 runways—Loewe went for leather, Victoria Beckham backed oversized funnel necks and Jil Sander had coats. And it's not just outerwear, Kendall Jenner proves it's the colour to be seen in with this off-duty athleisure look.
Shop the Trend:
I would wear with shorts and knee-high boots.
5. Olivia Dean: Kilt Skirts
Style Notes: Kilt skirts re-emerged for 2025, but they're going to come into full fruition in 2026. Make like Olivia Dean and get a classic plaid style layered in the Y2K way, over jeans.
Shop the Trend:
6. Sofia Grainge: Animal Print Flats
Style Notes: Animal prints of all varieties were a catwalk highlight for the season ahead, and Sofia Richie is trying it out with a pair of printed flats. Expect them to be the cherry on top of every outfit as soon as the weather warms up.
Shop the Trend:
7. Emily Ratajkowski: Chunky Necklaces
Style Notes: Chunky, statement chain necklaces were piled on at Celine for SS26 and Emily Ratajowski has been spotted already wearing the jewellery look. Everyone is going to be having a lot more fun with fashion in 2026, so embrace it with a more-is-more aesthetic.
Shop the Trend:
8. Simone Ashley: Halter Tops
Styles Notes: Rabanne bought the 90s most-loved top bag for SS26, the halter, and Simone Ashley has already embraced it. One that works for parties, dinner plans and as a summer hero, you'll end up wearing it more often than you may think.
Shop the Trend:
Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor who has been part of Who What Wear's extended team since 2017. She previously worked in print at Look magazine and has since worked across print, digital and social for many other titles, including British Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Refinery29 and Marie Claire. Also a stylist, Harriet has had the pleasure of producing cover shoots and editorials along with commercial shoots for brands including Boux Avenue, Watches of Switzerland, Benefit Cosmetics and Revolution. To add to this, Harriet also works in live TV styling for ITV’s This Morning.