Fashion gives individuals an opportunity to express their personalities, whether they are going to work, class, out for a walk or staying home. You may have heard the often-used expression, “when you look good, you feel good,” a sentiment many people live by daily. As the new year begins, several fashion trends have resurfaced, taken the spotlight and made a comeback.
“The 90s have proven that their influence is here to stay,” Laila Carlson, president of Oakland University’s fashion magazine BeGolden, said.
Carlson reflected on the omnipresent “moodiness” and unpredictability of 90s fashion, noting that its influence has prompted a rise in prominence for certain clothing pieces today, with casual items such as capris and baggy jeans making a full-force return.
“I’m hoping to see the 2010s make their full comeback,” Carlson explained.
Maria Magnoli, Editor-in-Chief of BeGolden, believes 2016 clothing culture will see a major comeback in 2026.
“The choker necklaces, top-knot buns and Snapchat filters were not exactly what I was expecting or looking forward to, but here we are,” she said.
Fashion is constantly changing because of how personally it is perceived. Trendsetting, once reserved for high-profile designers and celebrities, is now accessible to anyone with a social media profile and the drive to exert influence. Something that may have seemed unappealing last year can be manipulated and altered into this year’s biggest hit.
“I love seeing older trends resurfacing and being turned into something brand new,” Carlson said. She noted a particular fondness for the rising prominence of low-rise bootcut or skinny jeans from the 90s and 2000s.
Only a few years ago, many would not have thought twice about buying low-rise jeans, yet their popularity has increased drastically due to alterations and adaptation in popular style.
“It’s so fun to see in real time how trends are able to pick apart pieces from other trends and still come out with something distinct,” Carlson said.
Magnoli and Carlson both emphasized the importance of experimenting with different textures, colors and accessories without completely straying from their chosen style.
“I feel most confident in professional workwear, as it gives me the power I need to get through my day,” Magnoli said. “In 2026, I plan to maintain this look but hope to do so by finding new colors that I enjoy.”
Fashion is inherently individualized; geared toward what makes someone feel confident. Knowing what feels best can make it easier to try new things and expand a personal style.
“Dipping my toes into multiple styles is always exciting to me, but it also means I’ve never really had my own personal style,” Carlson explained.
As some find themselves in a cycle of chasing the next big trend, believing they need an item simply because everyone else has it, they can easily overlook the confidence that developing a uniquely personal style provides. Carlson hopes to change those habits this year.
“I’m learning what bits and pieces work best for me and make me feel most confident heading into the world,” she said.
Fashion constitutes more than what occupies one’s closet or which brands they wear. It reflects the wearer’s interests and thoughts and provides unique insights into their personality and preferences. Even without words, style can speak volumes.
“Fashion has allowed me to have a voice louder than my own at times,” Carlson said.
