Step into the new year with a fresh perspective on the creative world. From high-fashion leadership shifts to an unexpected love for "ponycore," the sources reveal a vibrant cultural landscape for 2026. Here is your curated guide to the latest happenings in fashion, art, and lifestyle.
Fashion: Hermès’ New Era and the Rise of "Ponycore"
The fashion world is abuzz with the news that Grace Wales Bonner has been appointed as the Creative Director of Men’s Ready-to-Wear at Hermès, with her debut collection slated for January 2027. If you’re looking to update your palette, "Cobalt Blue" has emerged as the most important key color to watch for 2026.
For those who lean into playful aesthetics, "Ponycore" is the trend of the moment, particularly as we approach the Year of the Horse; look for trendy horse keyrings from Korean brands to add a chic touch to your accessories. On the red carpet, the 2026 Golden Globes made a powerful statement with a "best dressed blackout," where icons like Jennifer Lawrence and Miley Cyrus opted for sleek, all-black ensembles. Meanwhile, the "coolest girls" are embracing archival sportswear, prompting vintage storefronts to open dedicated sections for old gym clothes.
Art & Photography: Queer Narratives and 90s Nostalgia
The art scene is prioritising inclusive histories and major retrospectives. A standout exhibition titled "Deviant Ornaments" is currently exploring the queer history of Islamic art, featuring a mix of decorative textiles and futuristic objects.
Photography enthusiasts have a blockbuster year ahead in 2026, with major shows including a Sophie Calle survey at Louisiana and Edward Enninful’s curation of the 90s. For those drawn to cinematic aesthetics, artist Nadia Lee Cohen captivates audiences by blending glamour and ruin, weaving a visual language that blends mythology and advertising. Additionally, Richard Avedon’s iconic "In the American West" series has been reframed for a contemporary audience in a new exhibition at Gagosian.
Culture: The Snail Mail Revival and the "It Spot" of France
Culture is shifting toward intentional, community-based experiences. Young people are driving a snail mail revival, seeking the slower, more tactile connection of physical letters in a digital-heavy world. Similarly, in-person listening parties are becoming a popular alternative to streaming, offering a way for music lovers to connect and focus on new releases together.
If you are scouting for your next travel destination, Marseille has officially been crowned the "It Spot" for Gen Z, attracting a new wave of it-girls and innovative chefs. For a deeper dive into social dynamics, Kinfolk’s latest issue explores the theme "Health is Wealth," examining how inherited wealth impacts success in the creative industries.
Design & Living: Hardware Meets High Fashion
Design is becoming more experiential and multidisciplinary. JW Anderson is redefining the boutique experience with his new London store, which famously sells honey, antique watering cans, and steel nails alongside his fashion collections.
In the realm of sustainability and methodology, the design studio Doyenne is promoting "feminine literacy," a process that listens to the voices often ignored to create products that better care for people and the planet. For those looking to elevate their home, Cabana Magazine continues to celebrate Italian craftsmanship through its exclusive floral porcelain collection with Ginori 1735. Finally, the HommeGirls x Fruit of the Loom collaboration offers a perfect mix of comfort and style with new cami bralettes and baby tees.