FASHION
WHAT THE YEAR OF THE HORSE MEANS FOR YOUR WARDROBE
By Flo Bellinger, 16 February 2026
If you’ve been feeling stagnant or a little lost – perhaps tired of your routine or itching for some personal reinvention – the Year of the Horse has arrived in perfect time. The Lunar calendar describes this equine theme as one of fresh starts and new beginnings. It’s a time for pursuing passions and embracing confidence – which also makes it a great opportunity to shake up your style. After all, what’s a bit of personal development without some statement clothes to match?
If you’re wondering how the Year of the Horse will impact your wardrobe, we’ve studied its key characteristics and applied them to the biggest fashion trends – so you can imbue your daily rotation with all the energy and dynamism the next 12 months promise. Saddle up!
FIRE: BOLD TONES AND BRIGHT PRINTS
Lunar astrology is guided by the elements, with each new year aligned with either wood, fire, earth, metal or water. Each moves through a 60-year cycle and are associated with different traits, fortunes and seasons – with 2026's Year of the Horse falling into a ‘fire’ year. That means plenty of action, intensity and bold choices. Runways have already been channelling this energy with statement tones like tomato red and cerulean, as well as vibrant prints that let everyone know you aren’t afraid to take up space. If you’ve got a favoured silhouette or go-to staple, consider it in a fresh palette and see how this brazen approach to dressing lights a fire beneath your sartorial statements.
GET THE LOOK:
Mango premium statement shoulder blazer in deep red, £119.99
RAID Floralio heeled mules in black and white polka dot, £30
Topshop cowl neck dropped hem maxi dress in abstract blur, £65
ASOS DESIGN rolled edge short sleeve cardigan in red, £26
MOTIVATION: POWER DRESSING
Another key feature of the horse is motivation. We’re talking new jobs, personal growth and developments in any projects you might be pursuing. In short: it’s time to lock in and reap the rewards of hard work. Where your wardrobe’s concerned, this means plenty of power dressing. Bold shoulders, sharp tailoring and the kind of suiting that makes you strut without thinking. Vintage spins on structured two-pieces are set to be big this year. Think houndstooth, ties and architectural silhouettes – as well as chunky statement jewellery. If there’s one thing that makes hard work more rewarding, it’s finding the fun in the grind. And nothing does that better than a great outfit.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN tailored relaxed mensy trouser in houndstooth, £38
Ruched & Ready sculpting high neck padded shoulder dress, £75
ASOS DESIGN cinched shoulder pad tie back shirt in red, £38
4th & Reckless tailored shoulder pad detail cinched waist blazer co-ord, £65
FORWARD THINKING: SPORTSWEAR INFLUENCES
Just as the horse gallops wildly toward the horizon, this year is set to be all about progress. Forward-thinking energy, constant movement and a sense that you’re approaching greatness. In that vein, clothes are about to be very techy. Sportswear influences have already been dominating trend reports, but a focus on quality pieces that invite movement and practicality will be top of wardrobe wish lists. Consider investing in a good track jacket that you can style up or down, and prepare for your shoe rack to be governed by trainers. Not just any old pairs, mind you. The next 12 months will be all about unexpected footwear that leans futuristic.
GET THE LOOK:
Nike Air Rift Leather trainers in black, £119.99
ASOS DESIGN bubble hem nylon track jacket in off white, £55
Topshop co ord modal stripe bubble hem trouser in navy, £48
River Island tailored funnel neck bomber jacket in brown, £59
CONFIDENCE: UNEXPECTED ACCESSORIES
Pictures: ASOS
Where unusual shoes go, accessories follow. This Lunar New Year invites you to embrace inner confidence and step into your truest self – which means it’s time to let go of fear and start experimenting. Had your eye on a pair of sunglasses that felt a bit too ‘out there’? Want to double up your bangle stack but worried it’ll be ‘too much’? Cast those niggling doubts aside and take the plunge. The worst that can happen is you change your mind. Fashion is all about trying new things and finding what fits – and the best part? Nothing’s permanent. These spring months are ideal for dipping your toe into various trends. Just like the caterpillar in the chrysalis, it’s time to overhaul your wardrobe and emerge anew by the time summer rolls around.
GET THE LOOK:
Reclaimed Vintage bangle 2 pack in silver and gold, £15.99
ASOS DESIGN leopard print skinny scarf, £10
ASOS DESIGN Swirl trim detail mid heeled mules in chocolate, £35
ASOS DESIGN cross and stone safety pin brooch in silver tone, £10
