2026 Style Forecast: The Fashion Trends Defining the Year in the Lowcountry
As we step into 2026, fashion in the Lowcountry is striking a thoughtful balance between ease and expression. Local boutiques and designers are leaning into elevated essentials, refined tailoring and confident pops of color that feel both current and wearable. From bold jewelry and layered accessories to clean silhouettes and statement-making dresses, the year ahead is defined by intention, individuality and comfort with a creative edge. We asked some of the Lowcountry’s favorite retailers to share what’s inspiring them — and the trends they believe will shape wardrobes in 2026.
By Bailey Gilliam
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Spartina 449
“This season is about elevated ease with flattering midi-length dresses and wide-leg jeans. Our Celia midi dress captures the trend beautifully, crafted from buttery-soft Peruvian cotton and patterned with lovely blue-and-white florals and charming bird motifs. It’s a refined and comfortable look that transitions effortlessly into the new season. Striped jeans offer a fresh twist to your elevated denim rotation this spring. Customers will love the bold, vertical coffee stripe on our Blanche wide-leg jean, adding a touch of visual interest while elongating your figure. Plus, the wide-leg silhouette is universally flattering and on-trend this season.”
– Ashley Elmer, Spartina 449
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Forsythe Jewelers
“As we head into 2026, we’re seeing a strong demand from our clients for bold, statement jewelry. Chunky silver and eye-catching two-tone pieces are leading the way. With yellow gold having been a major trend for the past eight years, we are also noticing a desire for more white gold. We also are receiving more requests for vibrant color gemstones, as people look to incorporate lively pops of color into their accessories.”
– Rebecca Lovette, Forsythe Jewelers
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Brims on the Bluff
“In 2026 luxury fashion embraces restraint and intention, transforming the way we experience style. It is no longer about visibility or loud statements. It’s the subtle hues of meaningful pieces. Heritage is re-imagined, creating pieces that feel both timeless and entirely new and meaningful. Palettes favor neutral, layered with the occasional hint of color that conveys serenity and calm. In a year defined by reflection and balance, luxury speaks softly yet profoundly through every detail, every texture and every silhouette.”
– Lauren Dembeck, Brims on the Bluff
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Island Child
“COLOR. COLOR. Lots of color!”
– Senny Powell, Island Child
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Heritage Fine Jewelry
“Stacking is trending in 2026. Whether you’re layering necklaces or stacking bracelets, multiples are a great way to show off your individual style.”
– Jennifer Lance, Heritage Fine Jewelry
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Outside Hilton Head
“For 2026 we predict that beaded jewelry and layering will continue. It is a refined way to elevate any ensemble, add depth and mix materials and textures. Shine on!”
– Maggie Metheney, Outside Brands
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Palmettoes
“We’re seeing a return to a more tailored look for women. The ruffles, flounces and puffy sleeves of past seasons are giving way to clean lines and thoughtful construction, with a stronger emphasis on beautiful fabrications rather than added embellishments.”
– Dennis Jaworski, Palmettoes
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Maggie & Me
“For spring 2026, Gretchen Scott is all about stripes and ric-rac ribbon trim, almost like candy stripes, with colors that are just beautiful. I’m especially loving the colorful tie-as-a-belt detail, and the palette she chose for the season is so cheerful and fresh.”
– Rebecca Mancini, Maggie & Me
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Eyeland Optique
“The big trends are bold geometric shapes, minimal metals and acetates and ovals. Very similar to last year. ”
– Billy Simmons, Eyeland Optique
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Jean-Pierre Klifa
“Where feminine meets unforgettable – a soft-hued statement dress designed to turn every moment into a memory. Effortless elegance, resort-ready comfort
and timeless charm in one perfect piece.”
– Katie Geisbert
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Currents
“Think electric blue and vivid yellow for spring ‘26. Delicate butterflies will flutter across apparel and accessories.”
– Claudia Emmert
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Gifted
“Enewton continues to be our best-selling jewelry line, as it’s worry-free wear. Made in Atlanta, super fun to stack and totally unique, as everyone puts their stack together differently.”
– Meredith Taylor
