Zara Tindall is crowned queen of ‘loud luxury’ – 2026’s un-royal new trend

“Since the start of the new year, it feels as if I’ve been exclusively writing about why bold maximalism is the hottest trend in 2026,” Tania Leslau, Fashion Features Editor at H! Fashion, explains. “Social media scrollers and consumers are tired of the ‘clean-girl’ aesthetic, reasons being it’s too curated, too unattainable and, quite honestly, too ‘done’.

“Chaos is fashion’s strongest currency, with nostalgic trends like Y2K style resonating with a Gen Z audience, in addition to dopamine dressing, a sartorial rebellion against the mundane. Regarding what to expect from the fad, my guess would be loud prints, irreverent slogans, dramatic silhouettes, clashing colourways and subversive styling,” she explains.

“Personally, I think the movement represents something larger than a trivial fashion trend,” Tania muses. “It reflects a really interesting shift in the industry – and it feels like a soft protest against social media, conformity and influencerdom. Watch this space!”

When trying to take on this trend, think loud, dominant colours, chunky jewels, and unique textures, from metallic foil to leather. Choosing items that are designed to be seen is key.

Zara stunned in the ‘Kitsu’ dress by Rebecca Vallance, featuring elegant pink broderie anglaise cut in an elegant shirt silhouette. It had a floral trim neckline and cuffs, as well as a fitted bodice that cinched at the waist. The dazzling pastel shade looked terrific with her icy blonde hair.

Zara, 44, opted for a mini dress by Rebecca Vallance at an evening event. She chose the ‘Nemy Bow mini dress’, a navy blue piece that featured a figure-hugging, but structured, silhouette, with crystals along the pockets and around the neckline. She added a similarly bedazzled clutch and headband, which perfectly matched those aspects of the dress, really allowing the small but shiny details of the look to stand out most.  

Choosing Rebecca Vallance once again, Zara looked glorious in the brand’s ‘Evolet’ puff-sleeved midi dress in a deep blue colour. With a silhouette that hugged the waist and fell into a pencil shape, it was a modern, structured style that perfectly flattered her frame. The embellished detail at the neckline gave it a statement finish.