Knits! Plaid! Straight-Leg Jeans! The 7 American Trends Coming for Your Wardrobe This Autumn

If you’ve scrolled through social media lately and feel as though you’ve been sucked into a ‘90s J Crew campaign (and with the influx of Western-style belts and Ralph Lauren jumpers, who wouldn't), you wouldn't be the only one. Americana is back, and with it come its most recognisable signatures. Whilst it's true that just about every ‘90s trend has made a return to the runway at some time or another (Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s brand of clean-cut minimalism and the era's "anti-workout" take on athleisure spring to mind), in autumn 2026, it's the cosy energy of middle Americana that's "in".

Blending the polish of prep with the rugged, frontier appeal of Country Western, this fashion trend is all about casual comfort. Think imperfect, "lived-in" denim styled with loose-fitting shirts or slouchy sweaters. It's unfussy, a little undone and ultimately all about looking like you didn’t try too hard—even when you absolutely did.

And when you look to our favourite dressers of the '90s, many were pioneers of the "all-American girl". Whether it was the of-the-moment styling of early Friends or the functional wardrobe of the queen of autumn herself, Lorelai Gilmore, each of their outfits had the same signature, unfussy quality. Having delved deep into the biggest trends of the season, I've collated seven American-inspired pieces you need to see as we head into autumn. Scroll to see what made the cut below and to shop the very best.

How to Do '90s Americana Like a Fashion Person

1. Plaid Shirt

Style Notes: Nothing says "Americana" quite like a plaid shirt. Crafted from a textured weave more substantial than an Oxford, its rich pattern instantly adds a point of interest to even the simplest look. So whether you’re taking cues from Jacob Elordi in Euphoria and styling yours with a black T-shirt and straight-leg jeans, or pairing it with a lace-trimmed dress and suede flats like Sarah Lysander (pictured above), a plaid shirt is an easy way to dip into the trend this autumn.

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2. Relaxed Jeans

Style Notes: If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, the chances are you’ve probably come across the search for the best pair of ‘90s jeans. Sitting neatly at the mid-rise, they strike the sweet spot between too slim and excessively baggy, giving you a relaxed silhouette that still feels pulled together. And because nobody wants to look too dishevelled, the straight cut offers just enough structure to keep things looking polished. Better still, it's one of those styles that work with pretty much everything already in your wardrobe.

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3. Boat Shoes

Style Notes: When you think of preppy or classic American style, it's impossible not to think of boat shoes. Once firmly rooted in their stuffy "dad shoe" era, over the last few years (thanks to Miu Miu’s revamped shape), the style has experienced a renaissance. Balancing the ease of a trainer whilst being slightly more polished than your standard slip-on, boat shoes are the kind of everyday staple that can instantly make an outfit feel far more polished. Especially when styled as Lucy Williams has, with light-blue jeans and a loose leather jacket.

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4. Medallion Belt

Style Notes: With the ever-evolving fashion landscape continuing to favour loud maximalism over quiet luxury, it makes sense that the ludicrously sized medallion belt is taking centre stage. Beloved for its instantly recognisable rococo-inspired medallions, the Yellowstone style has quickly been adopted by the fashion set, adding a jewellery-like finish to jeans, shorts and trousers, without looking over-accessorised.

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5. "Frontier" Knits

Style Notes: You heard it here first: the "frontier knit" is about to be one of this season’s biggest fashion trends. Steeped in rich history and known for its intricate craftspersonship and timeless appeal, it's easy to see why this cosy knitwear style is having a moment. In an era dominated by fast-moving trends, these retro knits offer an alternative: a piece that will live with you for decades and only feel more nostalgic—in a good way. And in case you need any more convincing, Princess Diana was a big fan.

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6. Baseball Caps

Style Notes: Whether you wear your baseball cap backwards or forwards, this autumn, just make sure you wear one. Rooted in American sportswear, but spanning hip-hop and skater subcultures, caps have acted as a shorthand for urban cool. But this season, it's less about hiding a bad hair day and more about using it to pull together a smarter look. Be it a classic baseball style emblazoned with a vintage logo, or washed, distressed versions made from cotton, this relaxed, almost aloof little accessory is an easy way to achieve the ever-sought-after all-American feel.

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7. Canvas Bags

Style Notes: These aren’t your regular Sainsbury’s shopping bags—the style taking over this season is much more like a Trader Joe’s tote than a supermarket carrier. Practical, utilitarian and, dare we say, a little bit of a humble brag, the canvas tote has had quite the fashion makeover. Thanks to high-fashion houses like Marc Jacobs and Dior, who have reworked the everyday carryall in their own elevated ways, these once purely practical bags have officially found their way back into the fashion conversation. And honestly? We’re not mad about it; just ask Alex Mill.

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