Trends that dominated 2016 are firmly back in the forefront in 2026, creating nostalgic style moments from casual streetwear to the runway. This is an unexpected throwback to the past for fashion. The mid-2010s are being channelled by designers, influencers, and A-list celebrities with stylish modern twists, demonstrating that what was once retro is now surprisingly relevant.

2016 fashion — image @shutterstock

Famous wardrobe essentials like chokers, off-the-shoulder tops, baseball caps, and graphic tees pieces that flooded festival fashion ten years ago, are now redesigned for 2026 and are at the front of this comeback. To update these looks beyond their initial casual vibe, stylists advise wearing chokers with layered necklaces and off-the-shoulder tops with fitted pants.

Celebrities are actively participating in the throwback trend. Social media has erupted with a 2016 throwback challenge, seeing stars like Kylie Jenner, Lucy Hale and Eva Longoria revisiting flannel shirts, mirrored sunglasses and distressed denim, classic hallmarks of 2016’s carefree aesthetic.

Hailey Bieber in 2016 fashion — Image @Shutterstock

Royal influence hasn’t been ignored either. Princess Kate has inspired fashion fans by reviving her 2016 British Vogue cover look, particularly the suede trench coat, as a must-have transitional piece for the season.

High fashion is experiencing nostalgia as well. Many Spring/Summer collections pay homage to the spirit of the decade, embracing colorful accessories and streetwear influences that ruled runways ten years ago, even as designers continue to push forward.

Taylor Swift is seen walking in Soho on May 1, 2016 in New York City. — Image @Gettyimage

The return of 2016 fashion is more than just a throwback; it’s a sign of a renewed desire for carefree, expressive, and authentic style, and it serves as a reminder that fashion cycles are dynamic rather than static.

The Fall 2026 Milan Men’s Fashion Week kicked off on January 16 and will run through January 20, taking place in Milan, Italy. From day one, the event has brought together designers, industry insiders, and stars from the entertainment world. Guests like Colman Domingo and Nick Jonas, along with other celebrities, have been seen showing up in sharp tailored suits. So far, the street style outside has become one of the highlights of the show, alongside the runway presentations indoors.

Photographed by Acielle Tanbetova, guests outside the venues were seen in a variety of outfits, but one thing many had in common was jackets and coats. From long overcoats to tailored jackets and trench coats, outerwear played a major role in men’s styling this season, influenced by the winter weather in Milan. Some layered knit sweaters over tailored suits. Others leaned into a more casual look, pairing jeans or plain trousers with coats or leather jackets.

Photographed by Acielle / Style Du Monde

Neutral palettes were popular across many outfits, with shades like grey, brown, and beige. Deeper colors like dark burgundy appeared in suits and paired with black coats, adding contrast. Accessories like vintage scarves were tied  around the neck, while caps, patterned ties, crossbody bags, and glasses tied many outfit together.

The Fall 2026 Milan Menswear street style showed how men layered outfits with different textures. From classic suits to casual combinations finished with detailed accessories.

See below for some of the best-dressed street style from the Fall 2026 Milan Menswear shows.

Photographed by Acielle / Style Du Monde

Photographed by Acielle / Style Du Monde

Photographed by Acielle / Style Du Monde

Photographed by Acielle / Style Du Monde

Photographed by Acielle / Style Du Monde

Chocolate brown jeans are versatile, stylish, and can be an easy substitute for classic blue or black denim. The earthy tones can be paired with neutrals like beige, camel, and cream, adding warmth and style to winter outfits. They also work with a variety of colors and textures, making them an easy choice for winter styling.

Layering & Styling Chocolate Brown Jeans

Tees and Casual Tops

Photo: Getty images

Pair chocolate brown jeans with a simple white tank top or fitted knit. You can layer with a cardigan or jacket for extra warmth. Complete the outfit with white sneakers, loafers, or ankle boots for a casual look.

Leather Jackets

Photo: Getty images

A leather jacket in black, brown, or burgundy adds edge to brown jeans. Layer it over a turtleneck or lightweight sweater. Ankle boots or minimalist trainers work well with this outfit, making it perfect for daytime errands or evening outings.

Trench Coats

Photo: Getty images

Brown jeans can be paired with a beige, camel, or neutral trench coat. This combination is winter-ready and can be dressed up or down depending on the shoes. Loafers, boots, or sneakers all work, making it suitable to wear for any occasion.

Teddy Coats

Photo: Getty images

Fuzzy teddy coats or shearling jackets make chocolate brown jeans feel cozy. Layer a tee, sweater, or turtleneck underneath. Ankle boots, loafers, or sneakers complete the winter look.

Denim-on-Denim

Photo: Getty images

Not just blue or black denim can pull off the double-denim look, chocolate brown jeans can do it too. Try pairing them with a matching brown denim jacket for a modern outfit. Different shades of brown add depth while keeping the look cohesive and tonal.

Bags

Neutral shade bags work best with chocolate brown jeans. Options like crossbody bags, mini shoulder bags, or simple tote bags in shades like beige, camel, or cream can complement the outfits nicely.

Chocolate brown jeans are a winter essential that work for both street-style looks and smart-casual outfits. They add warmth, style, and a modern touch to any winter wardrobe.