Gen Z vs Millennials: The 2026 Fashion Trends According to Fashion Editors

Of all of the things you’re likely to overhear in the Who What Wear UK office, a good divisive trend is where things get juicy. “Are thongs back in?” “Are bloomers really going to replace wide-leg trousers?” “Wait, when did everyone start wearing backwards caps again?” If you’ve thought it, we’ve likely discussed it, but whether a trend has legs or not often comes down to the editors in question.

Don’t get us wrong: we would never argue, but a healthy debate can ignite across the boardroom table when it comes to controversial trends. As a team that spans two generations, some of us did things the first time around (team millennial), whilst others are reinventing things for a new decade (team Gen Z), and far from sparring over the wearability of a pedal pusher, we’re more likely to learn from each other when it comes to what makes for standout styling.

Keen to hear their thoughts on some of this season’s most-discussed trends, I asked editors both Gen Z and millennial for their takes on the latest styles to go viral on socials. From Harry Styles’ penchant for short-shorts to the much-discussed runway shoe that no one saw coming, these are the watercooler moments (read: Diet-Coke-vending-machine topics) that we like, loathe or fall somewhere in between. And, if you happen to agree, you can shop our looks.

See-Through Shoes

The Millennial Editor: Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor

“My first thought when it comes to transparent shoes? One word: condensation. I’ve sat patiently through “barefoot” toe shoes, toe rings, toe posts and floating heels, but any closed shoe that asks the wearer to be pedicure-prepped and sweaty-footed is a bridge too far for me. I will, however, advocate for a jelly, which is as close as I will come to flashing my feet.

See-through enough without being totally transparent. At least a well-ventilated jelly allows feet to breathe, and it may be the millennial in me that gets so excited about Chloé’s rubbery take on princess shoes, but 6-year-old me is screaming at just how good jellies look with a demi heel. Having owned a pair of jelly shoes as a child, a teen (the OG Melissa style), in my twenties (courtesy of Alexa Chung X JuJu Jelly) and now pining after Jimmy Choos in my thirties, I’m convinced that they may be around for a lot longer than you might think. Not sold on the texture full stop? I’d urge you to take a look at Dear Frances’ Balla boots. With a mesh body that shows the mere suggestion of a foot, it’s the grown-up way to wear the trend throughout autumn too.”

(Image credit: Future)

Shop Remy’s Look:

The Gen Z Editor: Imani Francis-Tsolaki, Junior Fashion Editor

(Image credit: Future)

“The one trend I thought I’d never be on board with was that of the see-through shoe. When I say that, I’m not referencing the princess jellies that have Remy’s heart, but rather the completely transparent, plastic shoe. However, the high fashion runways have recently made a case for clear shoes that has helped edge this “no” into a solid “maybe”.

During spring/summer 2026, Simone Rocha and Louise Trotter showed hyper-ladylike see-through styles, which, although they still don’t work for me, did remind me of their styling potential. At Loewe, kitten-heel booties were all over the runway, featuring a myriad of interchangeable, coloured socks. The cooler-toned PVC felt far less offensive, whilst the looser fit keeps the style (and your feet) feeling fresh. Just change your socks with each wear. Similarly at Maison Margiela, Glen Martens refreshed the Tabi with a clear, knee-high boot. Whilst the sculptural heel gave the silhouette a cooler, grittier appeal, it was the styling of a nearly-sheer-but-not pair of white tights that really tickled my fancy. Just think how festive they could look with a vivid red stocking? Now this is something that I can get on board with.”

(Image credit: Future)

Shop Imani’s Look:

P.E Sportscore

The Gen Z Editor: Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer

(Image credit: Future)

“The most stylish thing that a person can do is seeing a trend that’s going viral and not having to buy into it, knowing it’s not quite for them. This is exactly how I feel about the rise of retro sportswear trends or the “Pilates princess aesthetic”—lovely on someone else, but not quite right for me. I’m someone who will only really wear activewear to exercise and immediately change out of it the moment it’s done. I have never really gotten around to investing in three-stripe tracksuits, should I run the risk of cosplaying Liam Gallagher or Mel C.

There is only one exception to this rule for me—track shorts. I would happily wear them in a Zoë Kravitz or Carrie Bradshaw way, which is to say I’d pair them with a graphic T-shirt or peasant blouse, which provides an element of contrast against the sportif staple. I currently own a few pairs from the likes of With Jean and Mode Mischief, but these are simply intended to be worn with kitten-heel flip-flops or a chic top. If you want to look like you’ve just gotten home from physical exertion in baggy capris and a tank top à la Keira Knightley in Bend It Like Beckham, do it by all means. But I’d much prefer to keep my athleisure usage secretive and inconspicuous.”

(Image credit: Future)

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The Millennial Editor: Jane McFarland, Editor-in-Chief

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“Honestly? For me, most sportswear is best left to athletes, but recently, celebs have shown just how elevated their off-duty looks can be when athleisure is styled up. Whilst I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all of Charlize Theron’s recent ‘fits, it was a Tom Ford look combining a silk shirt and co-ordinating shorts, topped with a black blazer that really nailed this season’s sportscore brief, albeit with plenty of grown-up energy.

For something more weekend-coded, I’m all about Ralph Lauren’s classic windbreaker with a pair of statement sunnies, but it’s highly unlikely you’re going to catch me participating in any actual sports whilst doing so.”

(Image credit: Future)

Shop Jane’s Look:

Prints Galore

The Gen Z Editor: Imani Francis-Tsolaki, Junior Fashion Editor

(Image credit: Future)

“As a Gen Z fashion editor, getting experimental and playing with prints and patterns comes with the territory. This season, however, I’m less interested in the “grandma’s carpet florals” that seem to come back around every spring and summer. I’m after a print that packs a punch—Zebra.