SPRING–SUMMER 2026 FASHION TRENDS
At the 37th International Fashion Exhibition Central Asia Fashion Spring 2026, the key trends of the Spring–Summer 2026 season were presented. Insights into what will be in style this season were shared by renowned Kazakh stylist Madi Bekdair — founder of the School of Conceptual Stylists and the «Style Session» Community of Image Stylists — as well as Style Session resident Darya Belkina, named Kazakhstan’s Leading Stylist of 2025 by Muzzone and winner in the «Solo Look: Steampunk Nomad» category at the II Asian Championship Asian Global Cup
Madi Bekdair highlighted several macro trends that will be especially relevant in the upcoming season: «In 2026, we can clearly feel how fast and unpredictably the world is changing. Every day brings new events and developments that seem to «fall from above». First of all, I would point to the growing influence of militarism as a theme. It appears in the details: hussar uniforms, imperial silhouettes, and references to historical military eras. This aesthetic is becoming a true source of inspiration. For example, the hussar jacket can already be considered a hit of the season».
At the same time, for example, patches are acceptable, but not epaulettes or shoulder boards — that would be too literal a reference. What matters now is not a direct message, but rather a hint. Militarism in fashion is not about aggression; on the contrary, it reflects a desire for peace — more of a subtle mood than a statement. A great wardrobe staple accessible to people of any income level is the trench coat. It is often casually referred to simply as a raincoat, but in fact, it is a classic military coat worn by British infantry during World War I. In addition to trench coats, other pieces that easily fit into any wardrobe include greatcoats (military-style overcoats), especially double-breasted models, field jackets, and stand-up collars.
When it comes to simple solutions for any budget, khaki is an absolutely reliable option, as is the entire utility palette: sandy, swampy, sage, wormwood, and olive tones.
The second macro trend of the season is Eastern chic, particularly Arab aesthetics. Madi Bekdair noted that last season was more about Asian influence, while now the focus has shifted to the Middle East: «We are talking about the so-called «Bedouin» or «desert» mood — lightweight fabrics, flowing silhouettes, sandy hues, and rich textures. Inspiration comes from the culture and imagery of countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates».
If you’re looking for the most accessible and practical on-trend solution, I would recommend paying attention to the cargo style. These are garments with patch pockets — trousers, vests, jackets — all in a traveler-inspired spirit. This style is easy to incorporate into an everyday wardrobe.
Madi Bekdair shared several recommendations for the upcoming Spring–Summer 2026 season:
«Today, boldness is undoubtedly in fashion. I’m glad that the short-lived era of «old money» — the so-called quiet luxury — is gradually fading into the background. The idea of quiet luxury itself is beautiful, but in practice it has proven to be not very sustainable. To look convincing in this style, one really has to live in luxury, with the appropriate budgets, opportunities, lifestyle, and mindset. These are challenging times, many people are trying to save money, and without the help of a stylist it is quite difficult to build that bridge between the aesthetics of quiet luxury and a limited budget. That’s why we are now entering an era of brightness, individuality, and self-expression. Vivid colors, color blocking, bold or exaggerated jewelry in gold or gold-like metals, and unconventional statement pieces — all of this helps people stand out. Even if people feel tired inside or cannot express themselves in words, at least their clothing can make them more visible».
If we’re talking about the main color of the season, the Pantone Color Institute has named Cloud White. The stylist explains that it’s not just a color in the literal sense, but a whole concept: «White today is a symbol of peace, purity, calm, elevation, and mindfulness. It’s quite realistic and practical to suggest that many people swap their usual black-and-grey base for a white one. It’s important to understand that white isn’t one single shade — it’s a huge range of tones. That particular Cloud White looks soft and gentle; it doesn’t blind you. You don’t have to dress head-to-toe in white unless you’re a sheikh. It’s much more relevant to introduce it gradually — through accessories or individual wardrobe pieces: a bag, shoes, trousers, a blazer, a scarf, leather details.
I often hear the argument that light-colored clothes are impractical, especially in winter or on public transport. My response is: «What exactly are you doing on those buses and in the metro? Are you spilling coffee on each other, smearing chocolate everywhere, crawling around on your knees? » It all comes down to being careful and neat. I’ve seen huge numbers of people using public transport in Tokyo, Milan, or New York. Just go down into the metro there and look at what colors people are wearing — far from everyone is dressed in dark tones. In our case, I think it’s largely a matter of mentality. For many decades we were taught: «Don’t stand out, don’t stand out, it’s dangerous!» So, we come up with a million excuses — the bus, dirt, dust, anything — just to put on grey-black again. In my opinion, it’s not really about practicality; it’s about mindset and ingrained beliefs. But if you slightly shift your approach and start small — at least adding some white shades to certain elements of your wardrobe — you can noticeably refresh both your look and the way you feel about yourself».
Resident of «Style Session», Kazakhstan’s leading stylist of 2025 according to Muzzone, winner of the «Solo Look: Steampunk Nomad» category at the II Asian Global Cup Championship, Daria Belkina, noted that fringe remains a strong trend in all its interpretations: «Macro-trends usually last 3–5 years, but it’s important to understand that not every trend suits every person — everything depends on the individual’s archetype and psychotype.
One of the current modern trends is color blocking. The essence of this technique lies in combining two or more contrasting shades, divided into clear, large blocks or segments. The key rule is that there should be no smooth transitions (like in a gradient) — the color blocks must be sharp and distinct. Typically, 2–3 colors are used, and they help convey your personal brand or corporate image to those around you. The trend for monochromatic outfits is still going strong and hasn’t lost its relevance. For example, today I might dress entirely in blue to create a harmonious, professional, corporate look — perfect for signing a contract or a successful business meeting. Every color carries its own meaning.
A standout trend for the Spring–Summer 2026 season is brooches — and the key is to wear several at once. Even better if they reflect your profession or personal identity. For example, if you are a musician, these could be a microphone, a treble clef, or a figurine of someone playing the violin, and so on. Brooches can be worn not only on jackets, blouses, dresses, or outerwear, but also on bags. An entire bag decorated with brooches can create a truly memorable and distinctive look».
Daria Belkina added that burgundy shades are prominently featured in current looks, along with Aladdin pants, oriental pants — often called «Ali Baba» pants or harem pants: «This is the hit of the season in women’s wardrobes. They are wide, with elasticated ankles, and they look great when incorporated into a modern business outfit. The key is to choose high-quality fabrics — suiting, evening, or cocktail materials — rather than cheap cotton. As for jewelry, large, statement pieces made of yellow metals are in trend right now: chandelier earrings, cuff bracelets, oversized brooches».
