Trendsetters online have been welcoming in 2026 by looking back. Internet users are resurfacing old memories of 2016, as well as fashion and aesthetics.
In 2016, the world seemed less restrained. Trends felt unapologetically bold, defined by loud fashion, full-glam makeup and universally viral posts.
During the pandemic, we saw a burst of creativity and personal expression online, spurred by a need for an outlet amid isolation. However, once life returned to normal, that burst of creativity faded. For the past few years, culture has leaned toward toning it down, from the “clean girl era” to “quiet luxury”; the less is more movement has momentum.
As our social and political climate becomes increasingly turbulent, it makes sense to look toward a time that feels familiar, before the pandemic and other cultural shifts such as the 90s fashion revival. This may be why we are seeing people return to the loud yet simpler era of the 2010s.
Social media
For many young adults in 2026, 2016 was their first time venturing onto social media. Photos with doggy ears and floating hearts resurface in Snapchat memories, and scrolling far enough on an Instagram page often reveals a beach photo swathed in the Rio de Janeiro filter or an overexposed sunset.
As nostalgia for this era grows, the art of filtering may be making a comeback. Instead of perfectly curated feeds, a messier and carefree posting style seems to be gaining traction. Users are leaning into a posting style that is more spontaneous and personal, prioritizing authenticity.
Internet trends may follow a similar pattern, emphasizing creativity, humor and expression rather than perfection.
The music scene
We have already seen this shift in music. Last summer’s “BRAT” phenomenon sparked a revival of dance and electronic music in the mainstream. This dance-pop was also a staple of the mid-2010s, where it dominated parties, clubs and radio charts. Its resurgence represents a shift to music that feels energetic and communal.
Even more recently, we have seen the comeback of several 2010s music icons. Zara Larsson, who rose to popularity with her 2015 hit “Lush Life,” has become a sensation once again after a period of quiet. Not only has “Lush Life” reemerged online, but her 2025 single “Midnight Sun” has been an overwhelming success.
This comeback marks the resurgence of dance-pop in the mainstream. Looking ahead to anticipated releases from artists such as Harry Styles and Bruno Mars, we can expect more electronic and dance elements to continue shaping 2026.
Fashion and beauty
While this shift does not signal a full return to 2016 fashion — it is hard to believe that skinny jeans could return as a campus staple — it does encourage bolder self-expression. Buisier prints, brighter colors, louder makeup and more experimental styles could all move back into the mainstream.
Animal prints and eye-catching patterns are likely to appear on clothing racks, while accessories will take a larger role in completing an outfit. Makeup trends may also shift toward warmer and more matte looks and away from the ultra-glossy glow that has dominated recent years.
This return to 2016-inspired trends isn’t a regression, but rather a look back at a time many remember as more expressive and creative. This isn’t a new phenomenon; each decade seems to draw inspiration from the forgotten trends of decades past. As 2026 unfolds, nostalgia will serve as both a comfort and an inspiration for new trends and styles. In revisiting the previous decade, people will capture the joy and expressiveness that has felt increasingly rare in recent years.
