The Rise of ‘Joyful Dressing’ and What It Signals for 2026 Fashion Trends
The 2025 LACMA Art + Film Gala wasn’t just a parade of sequins and velvet; it was a subtle but powerful declaration. While red carpets often telegraph upcoming trends, this event felt different. It wasn’t about austere minimalism or aggressively avant-garde statements. Instead, attendees embraced a spirit of playful extravagance, a willingness to experiment with texture and silhouette, and a clear prioritization of feeling good in their clothes. This isn’t simply a fleeting aesthetic; it’s a symptom of a broader cultural shift, and one that’s poised to reshape the fashion landscape in 2026 and beyond.
Beyond the Glamour: Decoding the LACMA Gala’s Message
The LACMA Gala, unlike the more rigidly structured Golden Globes or Oscars, provides a space for celebrities to express individuality. This year, that individuality manifested as a collective embrace of what we’re calling ‘joyful dressing.’ Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber’s coordinated, yet distinct, sequined gowns perfectly exemplified this. The contrast – classic gold versus vibrant red – spoke to a desire for both timeless elegance and a modern, energetic flair. Similarly, Troye Sivan’s oversized suiting wasn’t about power dressing; it was about comfort and self-expression. This isn’t about rejecting sophistication, but redefining it on more personal terms.
The Pandemic’s Lingering Influence on Fashion Choices
The roots of this trend are, unsurprisingly, tied to the pandemic. For over two years, many people’s wardrobes consisted primarily of loungewear. The return to social events hasn’t triggered a wholesale return to restrictive, uncomfortable clothing. Instead, there’s a conscious effort to integrate elements of comfort and playfulness into everyday style. As Dr. Carolyn Mair, a behavioral psychologist specializing in fashion, notes in her research on the psychology of dress, “Clothing is deeply connected to our emotional state. Post-pandemic, people are seeking garments that evoke positive feelings and a sense of liberation.” (Source: Psychology Today)
Key Elements of ‘Joyful Dressing’ and Their Projected Growth
Sequins and Shine: A Resurgence of Optimism
The prevalence of sequins, metallics, and shimmering fabrics at the LACMA Gala isn’t a coincidence. These materials inherently evoke a sense of celebration and optimism. Market research from Edited, a retail analytics firm, shows a 45% increase in searches for sequined items in the past quarter, indicating a growing consumer demand. Expect to see this trend extend beyond eveningwear and into everyday separates and accessories.
Oversized Silhouettes and Comfort-Focused Cuts
Troye Sivan’s baggy suit and the general move away from ultra-fitted garments signal a continued emphasis on comfort. This isn’t just about physical comfort; it’s about emotional comfort as well. Looser silhouettes allow for greater freedom of movement and a less restrictive sense of self. This trend aligns with the broader ‘quiet luxury’ movement, but with a more playful twist.
Bold Color Palettes and Unexpected Combinations
The vibrant red of Kaia Gerber’s gown, alongside the rich golds and plums seen on other attendees, demonstrates a willingness to embrace bold color. This is a departure from the muted tones that dominated fashion in recent years. Color psychology suggests that bright colors can boost mood and energy levels, further reinforcing the ‘joyful dressing’ theme. We anticipate seeing more unexpected color combinations and a greater emphasis on dopamine dressing – choosing clothes based on how they make you feel.
The Implications for Retail and Design
For retailers, understanding this shift is crucial. Simply offering trendy items isn’t enough. Consumers are looking for clothing that not only looks good but also feels good. This means prioritizing comfortable fabrics, inclusive sizing, and designs that allow for self-expression. Designers will need to move beyond simply dictating trends and instead focus on creating pieces that empower individuals to curate their own unique styles. The future of fashion isn’t about following rules; it’s about breaking them – with a smile.
What are your predictions for the evolution of ‘joyful dressing’ in 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
