Spring/Summer 2026 fashion trends are shifting away from minimalism towards maximalism, vibrant colors, handcrafted textures, and fluid fabrics, according to fashion professor Elizângela Gomes.
Gomes, who teaches at the Sigbol fashion institute, told CNN Brasil that the upcoming warm season emphasizes personal expression over rigid style rules. Store displays and clothing racks were dominated by stripped-back minimalist designs in recent seasons, but upcoming collections reflect a turn toward visual variety and creative experimentation.
Adopting the new seasonal styles does not require buying an entirely new wardrobe. Gomes explained that individuals can incorporate trends through accessories, layering, fabric applications, or by creating fresh combinations with clothing they already own. She noted that garments already in a closet can take on a new look with a different accessory or customization, offering an affordable way to update an outfit.
Minimalism in fashion gained widespread popularity in recent years through neutral color palettes, monochrome tailoring, and pared-back aesthetics. In contrast, maximalism celebrates bold color combinations, layered elements, and decorative detail. Founded in Brazil, the Sigbol institute is a long-standing vocational institution specializing in fashion design, pattern making, and styling instruction.
Maximalist styling and bold combinations
Maximalism is returning to center stage after a period dominated by simplified visual information. The trend encourages combining multiple colors, prints, sparkles, accessories, and layered pieces within a single outfit.
There is no single formula for maximalist dressing. Gomes stated that the concept focuses on experimentation and constructing looks with strong individual identity, allowing people to play with fashion and mix different design references.
For individuals hesitant to adopt full maximalism immediately, the style can be introduced gradually. Incorporating a prominent accessory, pairing unexpected colors, or selecting a piece with distinctive texture offers a subtle way to add visual interest to an ensemble.
High fashion brands have embraced maximalist concepts on global runways. Italian luxury house Dolce & Gabbana highlighted maximalist garments in its 2026 collections, featuring intricate patterns, rich embellishments, and layered accessories.
Rhinestones expand into everyday items
Colored rhinestones are moving beyond minor decorative details to feature prominently across clothing, accessories, and everyday products. Small colorful stones have gained traction internationally and are being adopted across multiple commercial sectors.
The trend received a significant boost in recent weeks when media personality Kylie Jenner featured a birthday cake decorated with colorful mini rhinestones. The post went viral across social media platforms, prompting cosmetics, apparel, footwear, and consumer electronics brands to incorporate rhinestone imagery into their products and marketing campaigns.
Rhinestones, traditionally made from lead glass or acrylic to mimic genuine gemstones, are expected to move from simple trim work to taking center stage in Spring/Summer 2026 outfits. Jenner, an influential American entrepreneur with hundreds of millions of social media followers, frequently drives viral fashion movements through her online posts.
Silk transitions into casual daily wear
Silk is undergoing a casual transformation for the upcoming season. Historically associated with formal evening wear and luxury attire, the natural fiber is being adapted for everyday wardrobes as temperatures rise.
Shorts, smocks, and loose fluid tops are bringing silk into daily routines. Designers are focusing on contrast by pairing smooth silk garments with informal items, creating looks that balance elegance with casual comfort.
This shift expands the utility of silk garments that were previously reserved for special occasions. Derived from silkworm cocoons, silk provides lightweight breathability and drape, making it suited for summer heat when tailored into loose silhouettes.
Crochet beanies add handcrafted texture
Crochet continues to expand beyond traditional dresses and sweaters into summer accessories. Crochet beanies have emerged as a standout trend capable of transforming basic outfits by introducing tactile texture and a handcrafted feel.
The accessory can be styled alongside everyday urban wear, such as denim jeans and a basic t-shirt, or paired with bikinis and beachwear. Variations in yarn colors, stitch patterns, and finishes allow crochet beanies to range from subtle accents to bold maximalist statements.
Crochet relies on hand-looping yarn with a single hooked needle. The resurgence of hand-knitted and crocheted accessories aligns with broader consumer interest in artisanal fashion, sustainable craftsmanship, and textured summer apparel.
Asymmetrical skirts create dynamic movement
Asymmetrical skirts are disrupting traditional skirt silhouettes through irregular hem lines, scarf-inspired cutouts, and flared godet tailoring. The uneven lines create visual movement and add interest even to simple tops.
A broad selection of fabrics, colors, and lengths allows asymmetrical skirts to be adapted to various personal tastes. Pattern makers use asymmetrical tailoring to break away from conventional symmetry, drawing inspiration from handkerchief hem styles.
The trend reflects a broader shift in fashion attitudes away from strict aesthetic templates toward individual choice. Gomes concluded that the defining feature of the Spring/Summer 2026 season is the freedom to adapt trends to individual style without feeling compelled to follow a uniform aesthetic.
