Key Takeaways:
- Power dressing is back, but with a softer, more balanced approach, emphasizing strong shoulders, sharp tailoring, and clean lines.
- Luxury fashion is shifting towards discretion, with a focus on craftsmanship, texture, and restraint, rather than overt branding.
- Evening wear is becoming more versatile and less formal, with gowns and glamorous pieces being worn in unexpected, daytime-adjacent ways.
- Statement shoes are making a comeback, with a focus on artful, sculptural, and intentional designs.
- Personal uniforms are becoming more popular, with individuals focusing on defining a handful of silhouettes and colors that consistently work and feel authentic.
Introduction to Micaela Erlanger’s Expertise
Micaela Erlanger, a renowned celebrity fashion stylist, is known for her impeccable taste and ability to predict the latest trends. With clients like Meryl Streep, Lupita Nyong’o, and Kelly Clarkson, Erlanger has a unique understanding of what works in the fashion world. In an interview with Page Six Style, Erlanger shared her insights on the biggest trends of 2026, from power dressing to personal uniforms.
Polished Power Dressing
According to Erlanger, power dressing is back, but with a softer, more balanced approach. This means emphasizing strong shoulders, sharp tailoring, and clean lines, while also incorporating fluid fabrics and comfort. The focus is on creating a sense of authority and elegance without stiffness. Erlanger recommends looking for brands that excel in tailoring, such as Khaite or The Row, and investing in pieces that move with the body. For example, Veronica Beard’s Miller Dickey Jacket and Khaite’s Nara Jacket are great options for achieving this polished look.
Quiet Glamour, Not Loud Logos
Erlanger notes that luxury fashion is shifting towards discretion, with a focus on craftsmanship, texture, and restraint, rather than overt branding. This means investing in fewer, better pieces that speak for themselves, rather than relying on loud logos. Erlanger suggests looking for brands that prioritize quality and subtlety, such as Brochu Walker and Guest in Residence. For instance, Brochu Walker’s The Lori Cashmere Off Shoulder Sweater and Guest in Residence’s Stealth Cardigan are excellent examples of quiet luxury.
Elevated Evening, Reimagined
Evening wear is becoming more versatile and less formal, according to Erlanger. This means that gowns and glamorous pieces can be worn in unexpected, daytime-adjacent ways, such as pairing a dress with flats or styling a tuxedo jacket over a dress. Erlanger recommends looking for pieces that can be dressed up or down, such as Everlane’s Ponte Sculpted Blazer and Quince’s Washable Silk Long Sleeve Minidress. For example, pairing a elegant dress with a pair of sneakers can create a chic and effortless look.
The Return of the Statement Shoe
After years of minimalist footwear, shoes are stepping back into the spotlight, according to Erlanger. In 2026, shoes will become the personality piece of an outfit, with a focus on artful, sculptural, and intentional designs. Erlanger recommends keeping the outfit clean and architectural, and anchoring it with a bold heel or refined sandal. Comfort is still important, and beautiful shoes should never feel punishing. JW Pei’s Sofia Sphere Heel Mules and Schutz’s Sienna Pumps are great examples of statement shoes that can elevate an outfit.
Personal Uniforms
Finally, Erlanger notes that people are done chasing every trend, and are instead focusing on defining a personal "uniform" – a handful of silhouettes and colors that consistently work and feel authentic. This means investing in pieces that can be worn repeatedly, such as Rag & Bone’s Miramar Sofie Wide-Leg Pants and J.Crew’s Vintage Rugby Shirt. By focusing on what works and feels authentic, individuals can create a personal style that is both timeless and versatile.
Why Trust Page Six Style Shopping
This article was written by Hannah Southwick, Commerce Associate Editor for Page Six, who has a keen eye for spotting deals on affordable celebrity-worn styles and testing Hollywood’s favorite labels. With her expertise and insider knowledge, Southwick provides readers with firsthand product recommendations, trend predictions, and more. By consulting stylists and industry pros, including celebrities themselves, Southwick is able to provide a unique perspective on the latest fashion trends.