New York Fashion Week officially kicked off on Thursday (unofficially on Wednesday), and already we’re taking note of what the stylish showgoers are wearing. Because let’s be honest — some of the best fashion is happening outside the runway shows.
As usual, Copenhagen Fashion Week already teased a handful of street style trends we can expect to make their rounds in New York, London, Milan and Paris. What else is Team Fashionista predicting to see outside the Spring 2027 shows? We expect sporty aesthetics to infiltrate this season’s outfits, along with luxury It bags. Plus, it’s not September fashion week without preparing for a potential heatwave — so we’re betting on lots of chic sandals and lightweight, breathable bottoms.
Whether you’re making last-minute outfit preparations or want to stay updated on what fashion insiders are wearing, we’ve compiled a list of the standout items we predict to see take over the NYFW street style crowd this season below.
Balloon Pants
Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight
Barrel pants are giving way to an even more abundant silhouette this season. For fall, fashion’s most stylish people are embracing balloon trousers. Defined by their billowy shape that tapers at the ankle, this pants style dominated the Fall 2026 runways, including Chloé, Moschino and Dior. Coming in a range of fabrics — such as linen, denim and cotton — and easy to style, balloon pants are a versatile yet practical trend.
Balenciaga Rodeo Bag
As “American Horror Story: Coven”‘s Myrtle Snow (Frances Conroy) said in her final remark, “Balenciaga!” The Balenciaga Rodeo bag — first introduced in February 2024 — has emerged as one of the It bags of 2026, co-signed by celebrities like Sarah Pidgeon and Lori Harvey. The slouchy leather tote is also a hot luxury resale item, with searches up 258% this year, per The RealReal’s 2026 Resale Report.
Heeled Thong Sandals
Last season, ballet sneakers were the trending hybrid shoe style to know. This time around, heeled flip-flops are coming for that title. Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner step out in the sleek shoe style often, and they’re a practical option for September’s warm temperatures. Plus, heeled thong sandals — specifically, Gucci’s Vittoria Heels and Massimo Dutti’s Toe Sandals — made it onto the hottest product list for Lyst Index Q2 2026.
Raglan Shirts
It’s been a sports-filled summer (U.S. Open! NBA championship! FIFA World Cup!), so of course we expect that sporty energy to make its way to the NYFW street style crowd. In particular, we’re anticipating lots of raglan shirts. Beloved brands including Guest in Residence, Tibi and Bode offer a range of the sporty tees, from graphic numbers to logoless styles.
Mathieu Blazy-Era Chanel Accessories
The fashion crowd is obsessed with Matthieu Blazy-era Chanel, as evidenced by the French Maison taking the top spot on the Lyst Index 2026 Q1 and Q2 as the world’s hottest brand. Fan-favorite accessories include the two-tone slingback pumps, the 2.55 Handbag, the Souplissimo Flap Bag and the ponyhair flats. And if any showgoers are feeling particularly daring, we might spot the infamous “sole-less sandals” on the street.
Mandarin Collars
Mandarin collars are experiencing a Western fashion revival, largely driven by the mainstream popularity of tang jackets. Although the trend has sparked online debates about whether it constitutes cultural appropriation, it hasn’t stopped brands like Adidas and Róhe from releasing Mandarin-collar garments.
Headscarves
Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight
The Copenhagen Fall 2026 street style crowd confirmed it: Headscarves are making their fashion week rounds this season. This multifunctional accessory is quite a versatile styling piece, from serving as a cute and functional hair accessory (no bad hair days here!) to doubling as a makeshift belt.
Lace-Trim Shorts and Skirts
Photo: Launchmetrics Spotlight
Chalk it up to the “Wuthering Heights” effect or ’90s fashion nostalgia, but lace-trimmed, slip-style skirts and shorts have become considerably more popular lately. Street-style-wise, the romantic style is a more practical option for New York City’s humid weather. A-listers such as Olivia Rodrigo, Zendaya and Jennifer Aniston have co-signed the romantic look, plus Dôen’s Iona Shorts made eighth place on the Lyst Index Q2 2026 hottest products list.
