A/W 25/26 Fashion Week: Data Analytics

Each fashion week season, we present a selection of the key data from our AI image recognition tool, WGSN Fashion Vision, which offers data-driven insights into the participation of colours and key pieces on the runways. This includes Paris, London, Milan and New York, as well as year-over-year changes in the main categories of women’s fashion. At the A/W 25/26 Paris Fashion Week alone, 130 collections were processed, 4417 looks were analysed and 7761 items were identified.

The A/W 25/26 season, marked by the fusion of classic and contemporary, shows that the fashion weeks are exploring the commercial potential of the modest aesthetic, targeting mature and conservative markets.

Check out some highlights on key colours and pieces of the season, based on exclusive analytical data from WGSN that will help you plan your next collection.

Key Colours 2026: Berry tones

As consumers continue to demand longevity and versatility, especially for basic pieces, timeless and attractive colours prevail.

As seen in the S/S 25/26 collections, dark tones remain prominent, representing 33% of the colour mix this season and with a growth of 4.8ppt* compared to the A/W 24/25 season.

In addition to traditional dark tones, such as black, brown, navy and grey, novelty came in the form of #BerryTones, which brings a rebellious touch to the season. The deep, dark reds of this trend resemble the key colour pointed out by WGSN and Coloro for A/W 25/26, Cherry Lacquer. 

Dark brown tones rise: Cocoa Powder

Just like in the A/W 24/25 season, dark brown continues to dominate the runways.

With a growth of 11ppt compared to the previous season, the tone offers a sense of familiarity and timeless appeal, being a great alternative to black. Furthermore, it is crucial for several microtrends, including: #CountryCalling, #DemureDressing and #NewRetro.

A WGSN x Coloro Key Colour for A/W 26, the earthy and elegant hue of Cocoa Powder is your statement brown for the season. 

Key item: Button-down shirt

Button-down shirts are becoming increasingly popular on the runways, while dresses are declining for the third A/W in a row. These shirts are a key piece of the Renewed Office Fashion trend, which incorporates a touch of modern tailoring to fashion.

For buyers: Boyfriend styles should continue to decline, so direct purchases and designs to button-down shirts. Modernise models with updated details on sleeves, collars and wrap constructions for a #NotSoClassic look with #DayToNight versatility. 

Wide Leg

Despite the continued relevance of themes like #Western and #NuBoheme, flare and bootcut pants have decreased by 1.3ppt and 0.5ppt respectively. However, wide-leg jeans (#WideLeg) continue to dominate, representing 32% of the jeans mix and with a growth of 9.4ppt compared to the A/W 24/25 season.  

WGSN Fashion Buying: the trend platform for buyers

WGSN Fashion Buying is a data-driven platform that helps buyers understand product trends and identify high-demand items.

The platform offers detailed reports and market intelligence data, organised by development cycles and categories with the aim of helping buyers optimise their seasonal planning and make more informed decisions.

WGSN’s Fashion Buying platform includes two fundamental tools for decision-making: the Opportunity Calculator, which helps to accurately identify which items to invest in, when to retreat, and what are the missed opportunities; and the Assortment Builder, which helps you create and refine your buying strategy accurately through actionable recommendations and clear buying guidelines.

To learn more about how our platform can optimise your brand’s seasonal planning and decision-making, request a complimentary demo here.