Spanish national newspaper La Razón has published a guide outlining five essential fashion trends for autumn 2026, aimed at helping shoppers navigate unpredictable mid-season temperatures with accessible wardrobe staples.
Writing for the publication's Lifestyle section, journalist Marta Pedraza reported that shifting weather patterns, featuring cold mornings, warm afternoons and cooler evenings, make autumn one of the most uncertain seasons for daily dressing.
American model Gigi Hadid was among the high-profile figures highlighted wearing mid-season outfits as the new season officially began on September 21.
Rather than relying on high-priced or complex garments, Pedraza stated that the autumn wardrobe relies on basic items that most people already own. Building a versatile capsule wardrobe allows individuals to layer efficiently without sacrificing style.
The Layering Strategy
The first key trend highlighted in the report is layering, described as one of the most reliable strategies for mid-season dressing. The technique allows individuals to adapt quickly to changing temperatures throughout the day by adding or removing garments.
Pedraza explained that layering has evolved beyond a practical cold-weather defense into a formula for creating distinct and original outfits. Recommended combinations include wearing knit sweaters over structured masculine shirts, pairing trench coats with lightweight nylon jackets, and styling long T-shirts beneath short-sleeved tops.
The guide emphasizes playing with contrasting materials, cuts, silhouettes and textures to create visual appeal. This approach also enables shoppers to repurpose spring and summer garments alongside heavier winter pieces.
Western Scarves and Flannel Shirts
Accessories play a central role in autumn fashion, with neck scarves emerging as the favorite accent piece. While previously styled on handbags, hips or as waist belts, the current trend positions them wrapped around the neck in a western-inspired style.
The report notes that scarves tied in a classic front triangle pair well with shirts, T-shirts and knit tops. They are appearing in a full spectrum of colors featuring classic Paisley patterns.
Lumberjack plaid shirts are also making a major comeback, returning to popular fashion for the first time since 2016. Updated with maximalist check patterns, these traditional flannel shirts offer high versatility for autumn styling.
Pedraza noted that check shirts can serve as an outfit's main foundation, function as an overshirt over basic T-shirts, or be tied around the waist to adjust to fluctuating weather.
Statement Belts and Nautical Stripes
Belts have shifted from functional items to visual focal points for the 2026 season. The report highlights a move away from delicate accessories in favor of maximalist designs featuring large buckles and wide sash-style silhouettes.
These statement belts can transform straight-leg jeans, pencil skirts or dresses by redefining the outfit's vertical lines.
The fifth trend focuses on sailor-striped knitwear, which takes center stage over plain sweaters to deliver an elegant French-inspired look. Classic Breton stripes remain an easy basic to style across multiple outfits.
According to the report, striped sweaters pair seamlessly with straight jeans, flared skirts, knee-length bermuda shorts, or draped casually over the shoulders.
Celebrity Mid-Season Style
The fashion report coincides with several notable celebrity outfit choices across Spain and internationally. Spanish actress Belén Cuesta braved rain at the San Sebastián Film Festival in a mid-season look pairing a tailored blazer with a long skirt, while television personality Paula Echevarría showcased a pair of 18-euro Primark baggie trousers designed for autumn dressing.
Royal style was also on display in New York during the United Nations General Assembly, where Queen Rania of Jordan wore tailored bermudas while Queen Mathilde of Belgium opted for vibrant green tailoring. Elsewhere, media personality Carmen Lomana bade farewell to summer in Madrid wearing a discounted zigzag coordinated set, and journalist Sara Carbonero highlighted burgundy leather cowboy ankle boots featuring comfortable block heels.
