Weekend Reads

Why No One Wants to Date Tech Bros. (Wired)

A Long Read About Living in a World Where Men Publicly Bond over Women’s Humiliation and Pain. (Unmanned via Substack)

Winter is coming and I am preparing by buying another tube of this fantastic hand cream.

Women Clearly Haven’t Ruined Enough Things Yet. (The Noösphere via Substack)

Beck’s 2002 album Sea Change was inspired by a breakup. For his ex-partner, it was the story of how the church took over his life. (Vulture)

Classic knee-high boots available in wide widths and wide calves? Yes please!

As doctors stopped prescribing hormone replacement during menopause, an uptick in fatal UTIs began. Why did FDA warnings against estrogen persist for decades? (USA Today)

I have a feeling these tops are going to be the “thing” this winter into spring. Wear over activewear, over dresses, over tanks and jeans.

Owing the payday loan apps. (Baffler)

OMG Fly By Jing has an advent calendar!

On Not Being a Homeowner. (The New Yorker)

Everything is Fake. (Merritt K on Patreon)

I'm kinda obsessed with this plaid tote.

ICE Has Been Dumping Protester Photos Into a Palantir Database. (Wired)

I blame TikTok for wanting this scarf.

Reflections on a lifetime of dental drama. (The American Scholar)

Style Inspo & Sale Report

Style Inspo

I love making a mini capsule wardrobe; just a couple of quite simple pieces that mix and match without any effort. I saw this jacket at J. Crew Factory and thought it so cute and versatile, it inspired this collection.

I could also see this jacket over a sheath dress, or a denim skirt and ribbed turtleneck, or a graphic tee and wide-leg jeans. It's really cute and the plaid is so subtle it can go with most prints.

Sale Alert

Jenny Bird is having its Friends and Family Sale through 10/4 with 25% off sitewide. I have been a Jenny Bird jewelry fan for years and have pieces that have become signatures for me as they're cool, quality, and easy to wear. Lately the items on repeat that are still available are this ring, these earrings, and this adjustable pendant necklace. I also have been wearing this anklet consistently since July in showers, pools, oceans, and it still looks great.

See/Hear/Read

I finished Cherry Baby: A Novel by Rainbow Rowell. This continued being a comforting read with a happy ending one would never expect in the first half of the book. A lot of discussion about weight, body image, and GLP-1s so be aware if you plan to read this. Even with so much discussion, there is no real shame in being in a larger body, and the women in larger bodies are seen as beautiful and sexy and fun and cool and so much more than their size. I found the discussion as comforting as the life of Cherry.

We finished The Gentlemen (Netflix), and wow did it get violent, but it was still an enjoyable watch. Lots of people and fashion and homes fun to look at. That being said, Karl kind of ruined it by saying that Theo James (Eddie) looks like our couples therapist. I would have never seen the comparison, but then watching the show it's all I could see. We're down to once monthly so we don't see the therapist any time soon, but I wonder if I'll still see the similarity when we meet. Anyway, the show really set itself up for Season 3.

We began watching Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story (Netflix). Another Ryan Murphy production, this is done in a way that feels occasionally trippy, occasionally over the top, occasionally like an art film, and often quite beautiful (even the blood). I think the acting is great, except for Charlie Hunnam, who overplays his role and IMO I think is miscast.

This is totally not accurate or factual. Sooooo many liberties were taken; if I were related to any of the individuals in this story I would be furious. But if you take it as a dramatic, slightly campy, typical Ryan Murphy production, Monster is a bloody good time (har har). And considering how much it is different from the real story, you can't assume what will happen next.

Over the past few years, I have become a big Athleta fan. I have realized that a lot of my activewear heads to the donation pile sooner than I'd like, while my Athleta pieces keep being favorites year after year. Athleta isn't cheap but I think you get what you pay for with quality and style. But heck, I gotta admit I am psyched when Athleta has a sale like this; I have all the deets and share my personal favorites I own or will be purchasing.

Starting today, through October 6th, the Athleta Friends & Family Sale is on with 30% off sitewide; this discount grows to 40% off sitewide for those who have Gap brand/Encore cards.

What I Recommend Buying During an Athleta Sale

If you’re new to Athleta, I wouldn’t use a sale as an excuse to fill your cart with random markdowns. I’d start with the pieces the brand does well: technical leggings and layers, polished pants that can handle travel, and comfortable separates that work beyond the gym.

Below are the Athleta pieces I personally own and recommend. Some have been in my wardrobe for years, some I have bought in the past year, all have my honest endorsement and I'll share fit info, too.

My Longtime Athleta Favorites

There are some pieces from Athleta that I just buy and wear over and over. I find I wear Athleta all four seasons of the year, with some pieces transitioning nicely from season to season:

• My current favorite active shorts are the Wayfind Shorts. With a 5″ inseam, they are long enough to prevent chafing and feel covered, loose and lightweight enough to be comfortable on a humid day, but polished enough that I can wear them from gym or kayak to cafe. I like getting the matching Momentum Top for a cute set.
• The Momentum Tops get worn so often. It's long enough that it stays tucked in and grips so it will stay down if left untucked. I have sleeveless, short sleeve, and long sleeve versions. I have them to match Athleta shorts and leggings, but also solid colored ones. I have been known to wear the sleeveless black one as a shirt with shorts and linen pants in the summer.
• I now own three pairs of the Rainier Leggings. They're thicker and warmer than traditional leggings without being bulky. I appreciate the reflective details, and my iPhone Max fits into the zipper thigh pocket easily.
• If you prefer a looser fit, check out the Rainier Jogger. I think customers like them even better than the iconic winter leggings!
• If you're looking for a high quality matched set for travel or lounge, the Forever Fleece is excellent. I have a few pieces and they have held up nicely (IMO better than a few of the other trendy brands of sweats). I love matching, so I often have leggings, shorts, and fitted tops from Athleta in the same colors to mix and match.

The Best Athleta Pants for Travel and Everyday Life

Athleta may be known for activewear, but I think the brand is especially good at making pants that bridge the gap between activewear, streetwear, and travel clothing.

The Brooklyn Ankle Pant has been a longtime Wardrobe Oxygen community favorite for travel and everyday life thanks to its functional pockets, wrinkle-resistant stretch fabric, and ability to work with everything from sneakers to flats. The Endless Pant is another favorite when you want something a little more polished.

This summer, I lived in my pair of Skyline Barrel Pants. I got white and found them opaque, they washed great, and were super comfy. With this sale I am tempted to get another pair in a darker color.

If travel pants are what brought you here, I recently updated my guide to the best travel pants for women, where I compare Athleta with several other brands I’ve personally worn and tested.

What to Know About Athleta Sizing and Plus Sizes

One frustration I have with Athleta is that the brand has reduced its size inclusivity. Athleta used to have a much more extensive selection of plus sizes; now the extended sizing of 1X-3X is only available for select styles and even fewer colors.

I pride myself on offering broad size ranges of quality fashion brands here at Wardrobe Oxygen and hope with the new leadership at Athleta we may see a change for the better. That being said, I continue to recommend Athleta because I find the quality, colors, and styles to be worth the cost; a rarity in this day and age, especially for activewear and performance fashion.

On the positive side, Athleta continues to offer petite and tall sizing in many of its pants and jackets, which I know is also rare in the activewear scene, and very important to many of you in the Wardrobe Oxygen community (including yours truly).

Is Athleta Worth the Price?

For me, certain Athleta pieces are worth the price, but that doesn’t mean I think everything at Athleta is worth buying.

What keeps me coming back is longevity. I have Athleta leggings, fleece, and other activewear that I’ve worn regularly for years and that still looks and performs well. That matters more to me than getting a lower price on something I’ll want to replace next season.

That’s also why I like shopping Athleta during a sale. Instead of experimenting with whatever happens to be marked down, I use the discount to buy the kinds of pieces I already know work for my wardrobe and lifestyle.

Athleta Sale FAQ

Are you an Athleta fan? I’d love to know which pieces have proven worth the money for you as well as which ones haven’t. Wardrobe Oxygen readers are an excellent resource, and your experiences help other grown women make better purchases. Share your Athleta hits and misses in the comments!

I have reviewed a lot of jeans over the years, but my body can only tell you so much about how a pair of jeans will fit another grown woman. That's one reason I love also sharing reviews from members of the Wardrobe Oxygen community.

When I received an opportunity from Madewell to try pieces from its current collection, I offered it to Andrea, a longtime Wardrobe Oxygen reader and longtime Madewell denim wearer. She chose four very different jean silhouettes: a barrel leg, a straight leg, a low-rise loose jean, and a wide leg, along with a couple of pieces to complete her outfits.

Andrea is 55 and 5'3″, typically wears a size 6/28 in jeans from brands like J.Crew, Old Navy, and Ann Taylor, and usually wears a 4/27 at Madewell. She also has real-life experience with Madewell's Short sizing and rigid denim, making her review especially helpful for anyone trying to decipher the brand's various fits and lengths.

Below, Andrea shares how each pair fit, what she would change about the sizing, which trendy silhouette surprised her, and which pair simply didn't work for her. Photos were taken by Bridget Solan.

This article was originally published as a Madewell denim review in 2021. In 2026, I completely updated it with a Wardrobe Oxygen community member testing Madewell's current denim collection.

Meet Our Madewell Denim Reviewer

When Alison put out a call for someone to review a Madewell denim haul, it was like she was reaching out directly to me. As someone who, if given the choice, would spend forever in blue jeans (money talks, but it don’t sing and dance and it don’t walk…), the jeans that work best for me usually come from Madewell. 

I’m a 55-year old grown woman. I am 5’3″ on a good day, and I have spent my adult years sliding up and down the BMI chart. No matter my size, I’ve always felt comfortable and confident in Madewell clothing. 

I spend most of my working hours at home. When I do go to the office, I frequently wear jeans in a “put together” rather than super casual way. In addition, the nonprofit I work for has frequent in-person events that require a more polished look. 

How Does Madewell Jeans Sizing Run?

Madewell’s sizing is generous, bordering on vanity. In most other brands (J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, Old Navy, Ann Taylor) I currently wear a size 6/28 in jeans and pants. In Madewell, the size 4/27 was the right call (with one exception). I’ve been a huge fan of Madewell’s Perfect Vintage Wide Leg styles, favoring the minimal stretch of the fabric, but was eager to expand into some of the “in” styles of the season.

Madewell Jeans Sizing: What She Tried

Madewell Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans Review

My first, and most anticipated pick, was the Darted Barrel Leg Jean in the shade Washed Black. These jeans are slouchy and comfortable in all the right ways. Although I generally prefer Madewell’s “short” length in denim (I appreciate that the rise is the same as their regular pants), for this pair I chose the regular length in size 27, as I wanted them to hit the tops of my feet.

They are 100% cotton with zero stretch and have a button fly—a closure I haven’t worn since rocking my 501s in high school! The darts hit me slightly above the knee, and the resulting curve of the lower leg was flattering and not exaggerated.

At the end of photographing all of my Madewell selections, this is the pair I put back on for lounging around the house—they are that comfortable.

One note: these barrel jeans are the only ones that felt larger than the indicated size, so keep that in mind if between sizes.

Madewell Longline Straight Jeans Review

It’s been a hot minute since I had straight jeans in my wardrobe, so I was eager to give the Longline Straight Jean a try. I ordered a size 27 Short in the shade Midnight Waters.

Madewell describes these as combining “the holds-you-in structure of rigid jeans with a touch of stretch for day-one comfort,” and I think that’s an accurate description. I generally shy away from jeans with stretch because they often stretch too much. But I’ve found with the Longline and other Madewell stretch jeans that they don’t get too big after a day of wear and, if line dried, maintain their touch of stretch.

I paired the Longline with a previously purchased Shirred Balloon-Sleeve Top in crimson, and I think the structure of the straight jeans was a perfect balance to a flowy blouse. 

Madewell Mylie Ballet Flats Review

For this outfit I also wore the Mylie Ballet Flats, which I chose in the shade True Black, size 7.5. I had read online reviews saying that these shoes stretch out, so I went smaller than my typical size 8. The upper and lining of these shoes are 100% imported leather. They are soft and remind me of nice leather gloves.

I am optimistic that with a couple wears around the house they will fit me nicely. Even though a little bit snug, these flats don’t rub on my bunion and don’t feel overly constrictive to my flat feet. They were the perfect addition to the straight-leg jeans and will also look great with nicer work pants.

Madewell Lowrise Loose Jeans Review

I was a little more hesitant with my next pick, the Lowrise Loose Jean. I’m scarred by the memory of the early 2000s, when lowrise jeans painfully dug into my postpartum midsection. That said, this was my chance to expand my horizons, and I do like to stay current, so I selected size 27 Short in Solstice Wash.

Made of 100% cotton denim with zero stretch, I definitely wish I had sized up in these jeans because the waist hits at a wider point due to the low rise. I think the larger size would have not only provided more “slouch” around the waist, it would have helped with the draping of the legs as well.

Honestly, though, I do wonder if this is a cut and style better suited for someone taller. After wearing them for a full day, they did loosen up but remained uncomfortable, so it’s a no for me on the lowrise.

Madewell Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jeans Review

The Perfect Vintage Wide Leg Jean in size 27 Short, Bedford Wash, is now my third pair of this style. I knew what to expect and was not disappointed. Made of zero-stretch denim (65% cotton/35% lyocell), these pants start off feeling a little snug—but not uncomfortably so—but loosen to a perfect feel after a couple wears.

Bedford Wash is a nice shade for fall and winter, dark but not so dark that it’s hard to see the details of the fabric. Although I paired these jeans with an already owned pair of ballet flats, I feel like the wide legs would look better with a more substantial loafer or low-rise sneakers. 

Looking for more options? See the most popular jeans for women over 40 according to the Wardrobe Oxygen community.

Madewell Nolita Cutaway Blazer Review

I paired the Wide Leg Jeans with the Nolita Cutaway Blazer in size 6. My work wardrobe was in need of some basics, and I loved the curved detailing on the front and that this wasn’t just a standard black blazer. This is a beautifully made, versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, but it was too big for me.

I often buy Petite sizes for tops and jackets because I am short-waisted. I think this would have been better in a Petite, as the hem hangs just a bit lower than I would like, and the sleeves are a tad too long. That said, I like this enough that I may visit the tailor and have this adjusted to fit me correctly.

Which Madewell Jeans Did She Like Best?

What I love about Andrea's review is that there isn't one simple answer to “How do Madewell jeans fit?” My own experience with Madewell jeans is similar, even though we have very different body shapes and sizes.

Her longtime Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jeans remained a favorite, while the Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans, a much more directional silhouette, ended up comfortable enough that she wore them for lounging. The Longline Straight Jeans gave her a confident step back into straight-leg denim.

The Lowrise Loose Jeans were another story. While sizing up may have improved the fit, Andrea also questioned whether the proportions of this particular style worked for her 5'3″ frame. This is a prime example of how it may not be the size, it may be just that a certain silhouette or style of jean is not right for you and that is okay.

That's also why I value having different members of the Wardrobe Oxygen community review clothing. Two women can have the same clothing size and completely different proportions, fit preferences, lifestyles, and definitions of comfort. I hope Andrea's review can help you better navigate Madewell's denim collection and choose which style is right for you!

You May Also Like:

The Best Denim Trends for Women Over 40

The Best Petite Barrel Jeans for Grown Women

Madewell Jeans FAQ

Madewell provided the clothing in this review through ShopMy. I offered my gifting opportunity to a member of the Wardrobe Oxygen community, who chose the pieces and provided her honest, unedited opinions. Madewell did not review or approve this article prior to publication.

Since the pandemic, fashion has been more relaxed. Athleisure became a thing and we began wearing Athleta and Lululemon beyond the gym and yoga studio to the mall and even the office. The skinny jean was replaced with wide legs, and even suit trousers gained volume and the coordinating blazers were often an oversized “boyfriend” fit or at least double-breasted. Volume over volume became a thing, and everything was either shades of beige or practically neon with little in between. And Fall 2026 is the first time I've seen a pretty dramatic shift.

And for us grown women, this may be the shift we have been craving.

Pants & Jeans Trends for Fall 2026

First, let's talk about pant and jean silhouette, as that has been something we've grown up feeling needs to be “on trend” to look stylish or at least with-it. And right now, there is no specific silhouette. Wide legs are still in, but straight legs and slim legs and kick flares and ankle length and barrel leg and cargo and subtle bootcuts are also everywhere.

For more fashion trends for jeans and how to wear them in midlife, check out my guide to denim trends.

If you own pants or jeans that you love, wear them. You very likely don't need a single new pair of pants or jeans unless your body has changed. If your footwear has changed (no longer wearing heels), first try having your pants and jeans hemmed before buying new.

The only things I think are “out,” especially for us grown women? Anything too tight, too stretchy, or chintzy. This fall, quality is the queen and if you're wearing pajama jeans, Express Editor pants, or anything from Shein, you're going to look wrong. Shine should only be on fabrics known for shine (satin, silk, taffeta, leather). Denim shouldn't have more than 5% stretch.

Blazer Trends for Fall 2026

Longer jackets are back. Shorter jackets are back. Boyfriend blazers are still happening, but you will also see a return to tailored styles. Double breasted, single breasted, collarless, classic lapel, stand collars… they're all happening. However, it's the same thing as with pants and jeans: the quality matters.

Those lightweight rayon unlined blazers? Nope. The shrunken blazers with the perma-ruched sleeves? Nope. The 100% polyester blazers pretending to be wool, boucle, or tweed? Nope. This season you want blazers that look like blazers. Wool, tweed, real suede or leather, classic suiting fabrics; at least synthetic blends that don't have a weird shine or look as though they could double as activewear.

This season, expect to see me in my six-year-old green tweed J. Crew blazer and my eight-year-old Banana Republic navy pinstripe blazer. In fact, the only thing making these two looks feel dated is the skinny jean. Switch out for a straight leg or even get quirky with a barrel leg and it would work in 2026. Maybe change out that pointy toe patent boot or toe cleavage flat for a low-profile sneaker, pair of loafers, or a sleek leather ankle boot. But really the thing that makes it look dated is the jeans.

Americana Chic is Big in 2026

Americana Chic… this is the term I use to encompass all that is going on in Fall 2026. The collegiate vibe of tweed blazers and wool sweaters and a bit of plaid and argyle. The Western vibe of denim on denim, shearling, cowboy boots, and larger buckle belts. The Carolyn Bessette Kennedy vibe of Calvin Klein simplicity with accents of red, denim, and leopard.

It's 80s-90s J.Crew, Ralph Lauren, and Brooks Brothers. It's mixing uptown with downtown: silk blouses with jeans, leather pants and pencil skirts with button-front shirts and cableknit sweaters, blazers with track pants. And it's likely already in your closet.

The key for 2026 is not taking yourself too seriously. Have something that looks a bit off, a bit relaxed. Tie a sweater or shirt around your waist. Let the shirttails show under your sweater. Switch out boots for sneakers, flats for loafers, heels for Cowboy boots. What you'd tuck, untuck. And what you'd leave untucked, consider cinching with a brooch or a scarf or playing with proportion with tying or twisting or tucking. Pop a collar, cuff a sleeve, add a brooch or three, throw on a baseball cap or tuck a printed silk scarf into your collar.

Color Trends for Fall 2026

In the Wardrobe Oxygen community, a member asked how to update a brown pantsuit. Folks suggested changing the buttons, having a tailor shorten the jacket, switch out the pants. No need to be that complicated; the easiest way to update your wardrobe in 2026 is to play with color.

Chocolate brown is a BIG color this fall, but if you stick to classic combos of cream, pumpkin, and plum you will miss out. Royal and cobalt nd cerulean blue, a rich and bright burgundy, royal purple, chartreuse, even black are colors that will make brown brand new.

Saturated color is a big trend in fall 2026, keep your muted colors but consider pairing them with something bolder. Blush pink with wine red, ice blue with rich chocolate brown, dove gray with bright purple, olive green with chartreuse. The only garment-dyed trend this fall is a dark gray/soft black, otherwise most items look pretty rich and saturated. Keep them, they likely will be back within the decade.

Shoe Trends for Fall 2026

This may be the one trend where you might want to shop, because this fall the shoe trends are wearable, classic, and quality.

Ballet flats are still big, but styles with a higher vamp are becoming quite popular. Personally, I love this trend enough to buy it. I am over toe cleavage and I like that no-show socks (these are my fave) truly hide under them. I got these from Camper, but you'll see them at most every retailer. If you're looking for support and/or width, check out these from FitFlop, these from Naturalizer, these from Vionic, and these from Sargasso & Grey.

Loafers are big; Saint Laurent's Le Loafer is very popular with the fashionistas, but you'll also see a lot of classic leather penny loafers and even the return of driving mocs. You will also see saturated colors, crinkle/shiny leather, woven leather, suede, and calfhair. The chunky lug soles aren't the thing right now; pack yours up as they will return. I have fussy feet; I got these last year from Abeo and am still rocking them but I am eyeing these from Margaux, these from M. Gemi, and these from Freda Salvador.

Visible socks are cool; a fitted style slips under pants and jeans. Play with colors and prints. I've found some super cute options from Hansel from Basel and Sock Candy and for well-fitting solids I like these from Bombas and these from Unbound Merino.

For sneakers, I am still wearing my low-profile styles. Adidas SL 72 and Tokyo both fit with my favorite insoles; I also have a pair of these Puma sneakers and still wear my lime green Veja suede sneakers I got a couple of years ago.

Boot Trends for Fall 2026

For ankle boots I got these from La Canadienne and am seeing in general, sleek low-profile boots often without a heel. They are suede, they are leather, they are also leopard and other print calfhair, but the color is rich and saturated and the sole is the same color or black.

Tall boots are big this fall (as groundbreaking as florals for spring), but no need to buy new trends. Bring out your riding boots, your cowboy boots, your tall low-heel boots, and your slouchy boots. I just ordered these and these from Naturalizer and will be sure to share my thoughts. If I didn't need extra wide calf, I'd be considering these or these to wear with jeans tucked in, under skirts and dresses, even thrown over ponte leggings with a chunky turtleneck and barn jacket.

The photos above are from 2017 and 2014. I still own both pairs of boots and will be wearing them this fall. The key is how I am styling them. I'll be doing that Americana Chic trend, styling the riding boots with denim, wool, or corduroy midi skirts and jeans. The black boots will be great with straight skirts knee to lower-calf length and fuller midi skirts and a slouchy shoulder bag.

If your boots are old and look it, that's fine. Get them reheeled and resoled at a cobbler, polish them up, and rock them. In 2026, old is better than new. As a grown-ass woman, there is nothing more chic than a boot or a bag or a coat with a story.

What I would shelve are the fake suede and pleather (and looking it) boots, the boots with overly large elastic gussets, lots of shiny buckles, super chunky soles, the boots with the contrast-color and stitching soles, and anything that has a really bulbous round toe. It is better to have no boots than corny or chintzy boots.

Bag Trends for Fall 2026

The photo to the left is me in 2019, the photo on the right is me in 2014. In both photos not only am I wearing the same boots in the previous collage, but I am carrying a black leather slouchy tote I got on RueLaLa (R.I.P.) in I think 2013. And this is the same purse I have been carrying this fall.

Like me, there is a good chance you already have a pretty great leather or suede slouchy tote (chic women no longer use the term hobo) in your closet. Bring it out; you don't need to buy anything new. It can be black or brown or red or purple or navy. It can have fringe and hardware of silver or gold or brass. Mine is tumbled leather with an embossed mandala design on the front; there's no specific “right” bag, as long as it's not some cheesy fake leather version or of some color that doesn't feel like Fall 2026 (baby pink, bright yellow, something distressed and faded).

As for other bags, you're going to see the athleisure styles will be taking a backseat for proper pocketbooks. If you're still wearing a belt bag as a crossbody, I'd go with leather or suede, or at least an all-black one that doesn't feel like gym gear. Vintage bags are BIG, whether they are a designer bag from a previous decade or just a really cool looking handbag or clutch. The key is quality; that pleather bag from Payless may be vintage but it's not cool. Fewer items, better quality is the key to sustaining style.

Accessory Trends for Fall 2026

Again, there is a good chance, my fellow grown-ass woman, that you already own all the fall jewelry and accessory trends and need not buy a single other item (at least, not new).

Brooches are back. Wear one, or wear a half-dozen. They can go on the lapel of your coat or blazer, can cover the top button of your shirt, or be used to cinch your shirt in a creative manner. Decorate your hat, pin your scarf in place, dress up your purse… brooches can go anywhere and can be used like a fancy safety pin.

Scarves are BIG. While the blanket and infinity scarf aren't back (yet), all those silk scarves you've collected over the years or have inherited are incredibly popular. And like brooches, you can go classic with styling them or get hella creative. Head to your favorite social media app and search scarf tying hacks and you'll be served thousands of them. Personally, I like to wear them either through belt loops or folded on the diagonal and worn at the waist, worn “cowboy” style in the throat of a button-front shirt, and in place of a traditional scarf with a fall or early winter coat.

Oversized stud earrings are back. Knots, balls, and architectural concepts in metal on posts, not French hooks. There is a very good chance you or your mom or your older relative rocked this look in the late 80s/early 90s and you may be able to find some collecting dust in a jewelry box. I go more into this in my earring trends guide.

Belts are a big thing, and in general, if you have visible belt loops, I recommend wearing a belt. Bring back out your animal print calfhair belts, your studded belts, your Western belts, and any belt that has a cool statement buckle. The collage above shows belts from 2020, 2019, 2011, and 2019; I'll be wearing all of them this season. I'm also getting a lot of wear out of this “vintage” belt I got this summer on eBay. If any of these look like something you own, rock them this fall!

Beauty Trends for Fall 2026

Here, I could go into Russian manicures and matte blurred lips but honestly the main thing is less is more. Unless it's your jam, forego the heavy foundation, the contouring, the multiple colors of shadows, the false lashes, the complicated highlights and lowlights, the flat iron, and anything else that looks as though you spent a lot of time on your appearance.

The key is looking groomed. Regular haircuts, silk pillowcases and/or bonnets to protect your tresses, and styles that work with, not against your natural hair texture. Skin that looks like skin, even if that skin has pores and flushes and is a little uneven. Brows that do not look as though they were drawn on with a stencil.

That being said, I am a full supporter of using beauty to express your personality, whether that is going hard or going without. Enjoy your nail art… or your bare nails. Get your hair bleached platinum or tint your grays green… or let nature take its course. If you love a full beat, continue to rock it… or focus on moisture and sunscreen.

And if you want to have fun with makeup try one thing… a bolder lip is a great place to start. The new lip stain/oil products are a great way to add color that isn't too intense or high-maintenance. I like the ones from Kulfi and Violette_FR. When it comes to eyes, you know I am a fan of tubing mascara and have reviewed the best tubing mascaras.

You May Also Like:

How to Look Polished as a Grown Woman

How to Maintain Style as We Age

In Summary…

I could go into all the things you “need” in your closet, what the designers had on the runway, and link to similar items in stores now. But for us grown women, I think the most stylish thing this fall is to shop our closets, our attics, our basements, and those boxes under our beds. To go to our parents' house (if applicable) and root around in their house to see if you can find anything they or you used to wear.

Gen Z is paying a pretty penny for what we already wore, and by wearing the real thing (that likely comes with some pretty good stories), we're actually looking much cooler.

What Earrings Are in Style for Grown Women Right Now?

For fall 2026, earrings are making a major impact on the runways and in everyday fashion. Sculptural metal hasn't gone away and continues to look modern and chic. The oversized stud is back, which is great for us grown women who are more comfortable with shorter earrings. Semi-precious stones and natural materials are everywhere, and fall has also brought us crystals, gemstones, and sparkle for daytime as well as evening.

The good news is that none of these trends require replacing your entire jewelry collection. Many echo styles we've worn before, and the right pair can make even a simple sweater, button-front shirt, or t-shirt elevated and cool. While many extreme styles are big this fall, I am focusing on the most wearable styles for us grown women.

Earring Trends for Fall 2026

I have always been an earring fan. Even since the early days of Wardrobe Oxygen, I owned not a jewelry box, but a jewelry armoire, with multiple drawers dedicated to earrings. I've liked them big and bold, shiny and architectural, delicate and sparkly, artsy and crafty, and I rarely get rid of earrings because they often come round again in fashion or fitting of my personal style aesthetic.

In 1997, I bought a sterling cuff mismarked for $25. It has subtle curves and I've worn it every year since. In 2017, I bought a pair of “Edie” earrings from Jenny Bird, in gold, for $65, and still wear them on the regular. In 2022, I got a pair of gold earrings from Nordstrom's brand Open Edit for $19 that look like crumpled gold metal. They are very similar to an Alexis Bittar design, but not enough to be a dupe. They look so effing cool, my stylish friend borrowed them to take for a night out at the fancy tropical resort she visited over the holidays.

That's why, while I'm all for having fun with accessories and trying something new, I'm not suggesting you replace your jewelry box with whatever is trending this season. But earrings are making a serious fashion impact right now, and I think it's a great time for us grown-ass women to take a break from the classic hoops and huggies and consider a signature pair that can take an outfit from average to amazing.

Think Architecture, Sculpture, and Flow

There is a trend towards pieces that look as if they could have been part of Elsa Peretti's 1969 jewelry collection, and others that look like an edgy piece by Ed Weiner.

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Straight lines, drips of molten lava, gyroscopes of rings, drops and balls and unexpected angles. Lots of swirls, evoking shells and waves. Classic doorknockers. All shiny gold, or silver, or a mix of the two. Expect to see a lot of baroque, freshwater and other styles of more “natural” shaped pearls mixed in with modern metal designs.

Why I like this trend: A sculptural earring can make a crewneck sweater and jeans look like an outfit. I especially like these when they're relatively lightweight because I want the visual impact without my ears hurting by lunchtime.

The Statement Stud

For years we have been doing hoops, chandeliers, and drop earrings. Well, this season has brought the back the return of the stud earring. But unlike the little gems and delicate pieces from last decade, right now these studs are big, bold, and making a statement.

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These earrings are a bit of a late 80s/early 90s working woman vibe mixed with the sculptural trend that has been going on for over a year.

Why I like this trend: Hoops don't fit every moment, and sometimes it's nice to wear a smaller earring. Also, I dig the “vintage” vibe (and plan to pull out some pairs I inherited from my mom).

Atypical Hoops

Back in 2024, I bought myself these earrings from Jenny Bird, in silver. And I have been wearing them regularly ever since. My regular hoops feel so ordinary in comparison, and strangers stop me in the mall and market to comment on them. They make me feel cool and modern, and like my sweatshirt and Lands' End jeans are purposefully minimalistic, not what was clean on Thursday.

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You will see hoops that are puffy, square, or even looking like seaweed dipped in metal. Most hoops this season aren't huge, but they still make major impact. From huggies that just wrap the lobe to ones the size of a silver dollar (though a more irregular shape), the current hoops are not just artistic but easier to wear.

Why I like this trend: The older I get, the more I appreciate a lightweight earring that still does heavy lifting. These atypical hoops can go from day to night and are lightweight enough to wear all those hours.

Semiprecious Stones, Polished Resin, and Natural Materials

Agate, amber, turquoise, jade, lapis, wood, malachite, and quartz: you're going to see a lot of natural stones and materials in jewelry this season. However, this isn't a boho or crafty vibe.

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The stones are polished smooth, the wood is rounded and stained a rich hue, the pieces look as though they would be sold in a museum shop.

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From small studs to dramatic drops, you'll also see bits of gold and silver mixed in and unusual color combinations for day-to-night drama. Occasionally you will see this trend mix with the next one for a high-low combo that is very fitting with the fall 2026 fashion trends.

Why I like this trend: I love a daytime statement earring, and sometimes silver or gold is too shiny. These earrings really work with the rich colors and textures of the season, but also glam up denim, corduroy, and cableknit sweaters.

Statement Earrings That Sparkle

The costume gemstone is back, but it's not like what we've done in the past couple of decades. It's not the oversized CZ studs, it's not the chandeliers, it's like the rest of the earring trends this fall: big, bold, and elegant.

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Piles of “diamonds” twisted like ropes. A gem stud with a drop (clear, or a mix of two colors). A stud with a ball (pearls, stones like carnelian and aventurine). A strand of beads hanging down: combinations like pearl, amber, and aquamarine mixed together.

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Unusual color combinations, and mixing semi-precious gems with more natural stones. Lots of baroque pearls mixed with diamonds and “diamonds.” Earrings are smaller or ginormous, but they are always bold.

Why I like this trend: This trend is just hella fun. I'm so excited to wear a cashmere sweater, a pair of jeans, and some utterly glam colorful earrings with simple hair and makeup.

How to Wear Statement Earrings When Your Earlobes Have Changed

One thing I don't see discussed often enough in conversations about earrings for grown women is that our ears can change. Earlobes can become thinner or more elongated over time, and decades of wearing earrings can stretch a piercing. That doesn't mean we're relegated to tiny studs for the rest of our lives.

These days, I pay as much attention to an earring's weight and construction as I do its design. A pair can look substantial without actually being heavy, and there are also a few tricks that can make statement earrings more comfortable and help them sit better on the ear.

Look for Visual Impact Without the Weight

A lot of the architectural earrings are surprisingly lightweight. Just a thin strip of metal twisted and bent, it can look big but feel like practically nothing. Also look for earrings incorporating lucite and hollow tube hoops for lighter weight but stronger style.

Try Larger or Supportive Earring Backs

A few jewelry companies have figured out the need for more supportive of earring backs that will better disperse the weight and remove the drag on the lobes. For example, Miranda Frye makes these in silver or gold and they're designed specifically for large or heavy earrings.

Earlobe Patches Offer Subtle Support

Ear patches go on the back of the lobe; they offer support, structure, and help stretched or torn piercings without being visible. Lobe Wonder is the O.G. earlobe support patch, but you may find similar concepts at other retailers.

Don't Dismiss Clip-ons

Clip-ons are back, and they are better designed than in the past. Cushioned, controlled pressure, and a style that disperses the weight, they work great with the current trends of oversized studs and statement styles. You can also find earring converters like this set from Chico's that will convert pierced earrings into clip-ons.

Know When an Earring Isn't Worth It

I've reached the point where I don't care how fabulous an earring is if I'm thinking about my ears all night. If an earring hurts, pulls noticeably on my piercing, or makes my lobe look strained, it isn't the earring for me.

If a piercing has become significantly elongated, the skin beneath it looks very thin, or the lobe has begun to tear, that's beyond the scope of an earring hack. A dermatologist or plastic surgeon can evaluate it; stretched and torn earlobes can be medically repaired.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Earrings

One of the reasons I love earrings, especially at this age, is you can participate in fashion without reinventing the wardrobe. A great pair can make years-old clothes feel current again. And with a fluctuating figure, earrings always fit.

Continue to wear your favorite earrings, or don't wear earrings. The most stylish thing is to wear what brings you comfort and joy. And if a switch up sounds appealing, I hope you found some stylish inspiration!