Lunar New Year has yet to come around in 2026, but the fashion world is already casting off the 2025 Year of the Snake in favour of the energy promised by the Year of the Horse. The new year points towards a time defined by movement, confidence, and renewed momentum.
While trends typically trace a clear lineage from the runway, the conversation surrounding the Year of the Horse suggests an influence extending beyond fashion week.
To speak of ‘trends’ at all feels almost contradictory. The horse is a symbol of freedom, independence, and motion; qualities that resist rigid boundaries. Instead, the year ahead may mark a departure from hyper-specific microtrends, favoring more expansive, expressive ideas that prioritise individuality and personal interpretation.
When Is It Year Of The Horse?
The Year of the Horse officially begins on February 17, 2026, which is 2026's start date for the New Chinese Zodiac Year and Lunar New Year.
The shift marks the start of a new year associated with one of the Chinese Zodiac Signs. This upcoming transition will take us from Year of the Snake to Year of the Horse.
What Does Year Of The Horse Symbolize?
- Move
- Change
- Freedom
- Energy
- Ambition
- Opportunity
- Generosity
- Assertion
Year Of The Horse Style Trends
1. Equestrian Codes
Equestrian influences are easily the most literal interpretation of the Year of the Horse. Long embedded in the heritage of luxury houses such as Hermès, Burberry, and Gucci, equestrian codes continue to dominate.
Expect to see structured leather, saddle-inspired bags, polished hardware, and heritage silhouettes reinterpreted with a modern sensibility. These are not trend-led novelties, but enduring design elements, making them ideal candidates for long-term wardrobe investment.
2. Fire Horse Colors
As the Year of the Fire Horse, 2026 places fiery tones firmly in the spotlight. Red is considered to be a lucky color for the year, alongside pink and purple. Rich reds and deep oxblood shades are likely to seep into our wardrobes.
These colors convey confidence and vitality. Accessories in these hues offer an accessible way to embrace the trend without overwhelming a look.
3. Eclecticism Over Microtrends
If recent years have been defined by microtrends, the Year of the Horse signals a move in the opposite direction. Eclecticism, the art of mixing eras, textures, and styles, takes centre stage.
Rather than adhering to rigid aesthetics, personal curation becomes key. Vintage pieces sit comfortably alongside modern designs, encouraging individuality and longevity over short-lived hyper-specific trends.
4. Medium Bags
Oversized totes and micro bags have both had their moment, but 2026 feels like the perfect moment to embrace the humble medium-sized bag.
In the early 2000s, magazines placed a heavy emphasis on day-to-night dressing. If this new era is all about freedom, then being equipped for spontaneity is key, and a medium-size bag is the perfect happy medium.
Not sure on size? Click on a bag product page on the myGemma website and use the 'try it on' and the 'what fits inside' features.
5. Playful Accents
In a post-Labubu era, playful fashion details are here to stay, but with fewer rules. Charms, unexpected hardware, colour accents, and tactile finishes bring personality to accessories without dictating an entire aesthetic.
The emphasis shifts from novelty to nuance: playful elements that enhance rather than define a piece.
When Is Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year usually falls between January 21st and February 20th on the Gregorian calendar. The calendar is based on the moon's phases, with each month beginning on a new moon.
Each Lunar New Year marks the beginning of a new lunar year, which is associated with one of 12 zodiac animals. In many Western countries, the 'Year of the ___' is interpreted as beginning from the beginning of the solar year, which is an inaccuracy.
Where To Buy Designer Accessories In 2026
As fashion moves towards more intentionality, pre-owned luxury continues to gain momentum. Shopping authenticated designer accessories allows for exploration and self-expression while supporting a more circular fashion economy.
Platforms like myGemma offer access to timeless luxury pieces that transcend seasonal trends, making it easier to invest in quality, heritage, and individuality.
At myGemma, you'll find a wide range of accessories from luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Hermès, Chanel, just to name a few. Each item is expertly authenticated before being listed on the website and on the app.
Check out our Trustpilot reviews to see what our customers think of us.
How To Declutter Your Wardrobe
There is something cleansing about decluttering your life and getting rid of items that no longer align with your lifestyle. Decluttering in 2026 is less about minimalism and more about clarity.
There are lots of ways to declutter your wardrobe, such as by donating to thrift stores or sell your items on an online marketplace. However, when it comes to designer accessories, it's best to consult the experts.
Let go of trend-driven pieces and reinvest in designs that will stay with you. myGemma offers three ways to declutter your accessories edit:
- Sell Directly: The most popular way to sell, this is the quickest way to make money on your designer accessories. From price quote to payment, it can take as little as 24 hours for the sale to complete.
- Consign: A great choice if you want to make the most amount of money for your items. This way, you can earn up to 25% more for your goods.
- Trade-In: If you've got your eye on something else, then trading in a great option. You'll get 5-10% extra value for your items to put towards something 'new'.
Fill out the quick and easy online form today to receive your unique price quote. Once completed, a member of the team will evaluate the details and be in touch.
