Paris Fashion Week SS26 came and went in a whirlwind of colour, creativity, and pure fashion joy. From barely-there sheers to puffed-up bubbles and hip-slung lows, designers gave us a season that felt like a breath of fresh air.
Nothing says a new season like fresh trends — and Paris Fashion Week SS26 definitely delivered. With bold shows, exciting debuts, and jaw-dropping pieces, this season was one to remember. Designers embraced freedom and fun, choosing softer shapes over structure and movement over formality. Bright colours, light fabrics, and playful textures dominated the runways, with feathers, florals, volume, and low-rise cuts bringing a burst of energy to it all. Here are five standout trends that defined Paris Fashion Week SS26.
Feathers, fringes and flower pompoms
Designers really turned up the charm this season with feathers, florals, and the cutest flower pom-poms you’ve ever seen. At Chanel, Alaïa, and Stella McCartney’s shows, these details appeared on everything from trims to full gowns, moving beautifully with each step. There was a lightness to it all — soft, feminine, and just a little bit playful. Personally, I loved how these pieces brought me joy just looking at them because nothing says happiness more than flowers.
The rise of low-rise: slipping into nostalgia
The low-rise trend has been creeping back for a while now — and let’s be honest, it’s not going anywhere. And it’s not just jeans anymore. From Dsquared2’s slinky low-slung pants to Chanel’s hip-grazing skirts, waistlines dropped low, bringing back the early-2000s energy with ease. Even the iconic bumster silhouette made a reappearance at the Alexander McQueen show, still with its shock value but also alluding to confidence as always. I’ve said it a hundred times, but I’ll say it again: I love me some low-rise. This is one trend I’m definitely buying into (again).
Relaxed silhouettes: effortless elegance in motion
This season, tight, body-hugging silhouettes gave way to soft tailoring, relaxed trousers, and breezy dresses that moved with effortless ease. Saint Laurent embraced exaggerated, flowy pieces adorned with ruffles, adding a refined touch to their airy charm. Balenciaga, too, had a soft approach in their pieces, leaning into minimalism with relaxed draping. Long, fluid satin and silk gowns hung loosely, creating a graceful, flowing effect. It’s the kind of fashion that feels as good as it looks — easy, confident, and effortlessly comfortable. And as always, I’m all for it.
Read also: The standout shows defining Paris Fashion Week SS26 so far
Sheer and sheen layers
Sheer stole the show this season — because let’s be honest, Paris loves a little tease. From delicate lace slips at Tom Ford to see-through gowns at Louis Vuitton, and also Mugler, designers reminded us that transparency can be both sultry and sophisticated. Fabrics floated like whispers, hinting at what’s underneath without giving it all away. It’s bold, it’s romantic, and it’s got just the right amount of drama — perfect for anyone who isn’t afraid to turn a few heads.
Read also: Paris Fashion Week FW25 commences with a flourish — here’s what to expect
Strapped In: defining the waist, defining the moment
Belts and buckles were everywhere this season. From Alexander McQueen’s structured, cargo-inspired corsets to strap-accented tailoring on the runways, designers flawlessly blended utility with sensuality. Leather belts cinched waists — especially on low-rise pants and skirts — turning simple outfits into bold, confident statements.
Bubbles & Bells
I love a good bubble skirt, so seeing them everywhere this season had me so excited. Designers like Jonathan Anderson and Olivier Rousteing had really leaned into playfulness with bubble hems, puffed skirts, and rounded shapes that felt fresh but modern too. Dior showcased sculpted bubble sets, while Balmain kept things airy with balloon-like dresses that seemed to float down the runway. It’s flirty, fun, and full of movement — proof that fashion doesn’t always have to be serious to make a statement.
This season, designers brought feathers, bubbles, low-rises, and sheer magic, making one thing clear— Paris Fashion Week SS26 felt so full of life. Some familiar trends made a sweet comeback, reminding us that fashion isn’t always about what’s new — it’s about what never really disappears. With all the trends we’ve seen from SS26, the anticipation levels for FW26 are higher than ever.
Read more: Marie Claire Nigeria Trend Report: London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2025
