2026 Is The Year Of Buttons

The tiny detail making every outfit more playful.

POSTED BY JOSEPHINE ALLEN

We've seen a lot of whimsy this year, with swirls on tights, handmade earrings, and everything in between, but a contender for the most fun trend has to be buttons. Ever since they became a TikTok craze, I've made it my mission to add them to every outfit when I'm feeling playful.

They're just so cute! I purchased a pair of black button earrings as a nod to Coraline, and they've been a staple in all of my fits since. But that's only the beginning of how creative this trend can get. I've seen creators sew buttons onto bags, blazers, hats, and even tops, turning simple pieces into something completely unique.

A lot of the fun comes from using buttons to create a design. I've seen creators sew white buttons around a yellow one to create the look of a daisy, and honestly, I can't think of a more perfect picnic outfit detail. It instantly reminds me of childhood clothing — those little handmade touches that made every piece feel special. Whimsy and nostalgia really do go hand-in-hand.

What I love most about this trend is that it works whether you’re a full maximalist or someone who just wants a little pop of personality. Adding colorful buttons to a cardigan, denim jacket, or even the pocket of your favorite jeans can completely transform a basic piece without feeling too overwhelming.

My next endeavor will be sewing colorful ones onto my shirt collars. I'm a big fan of eclectic fashion, and this is such an easy way to honor that look. While my button journey started with a pair of versatile earrings, I'm excited to experiment with bolder designs going forward. Maybe a fully button-covered top? A statement bag? The possibilities feel endless.

I'm also loving that this trend encourages people to personalize what they already own. In a world where everyone is trying to find pieces that feel more unique, adding a few buttons is such an easy way to make something truly yours. It feels less like following a trend and more like playing around with fashion.

I'm excited to see where this trend goes next. Will we see Audrey Hobert add buttons to her quirky aesthetic? Are button headbands going to be the next big thing, or will everyone be turning them into chokers? I can guarantee that I'll be watching all of it.

Scroll through my Fizzypicks below for the cutest button-inspired pieces and DIY-friendly finds to add a little more whimsy to your wardrobe.

100% linen jacket with buttons - Medium plane

MANGO
100% Linen Jacket With Buttons
$129.99

 

sleeveless top set with a V-neck, front buttons, and a flared hem, with matching shorts and side pockets.

ZARA
Covered Button Top
$49.90

 

view 1 of 4 Sienna Top in Black

WITH JEAN
Sienna Top
$166

 

LEVI'S
Sculpted Top
$75

 

Buttoned lyocell vest - Medium plane

MANGO
Buttoned Lyocell Vest
$79.99

 

view 1 of 4 x REVOLVE Dylan Vest in Clean Ivory

FREE PEOPLE
X REVOLVE Dylan Vest
$78

 

Caramel long-sleeve jacket set with round neck, buttons, and side pockets, blue jeans, and sandals.

ZARA
ZW Collection 100% Leather Bomber Jacket
$129

 

Belt with mother-of-pearl buttons - Article without model

MANGO
Belt With Mother-Of-Pearl Buttons
$35.99

 

Lioness Penny Asymmetric Button Detail  Low Rise Straight Leg Jeans

LIONESS
Penny Asymmetric Button Detail Low Rise Straight Leg Jeans
$100

 

Picture 1 out of 6

STAUD
Timmy Button-Embellished Shoulder Bag
$415

 

I.AM.GIA
Davina Top
$90

 

Fitted top with decorative buttons - Medium plane

MANGO
Fitted Top With Decorative Buttons
$79.99

 

BDG Milo Military Button Linen Short Sleeve Shirt

BDG
Milo Military Button Linen Short Sleeve Shirt
$65

 

Open-Knit Cotton Cardigan - Turquoise - Lookbook

& OTHER STORIES
Open-Knit Cotton Cardigan
$79

 

view 1 of 4 Devin Tank in Navy Stripe Delight Knit

SHOW ME YOUR MUMU
Devin Tank
$128

 

BDG Library Flirt Knit Short Sleeve Button-Down Top

BDG
Library Flirt Knit Short Sleeve Button-Down Top
$45

 

BDG Nautical Button Low-Rise Micro Shorts

BDG
Nautival Button Low-Rise Micro Shorts
$59

 

Blue jacket set with buttons, frayed edges, and front flap pockets, along with shorts with side pockets.

ZARA
ZW Collection Denim Jacket
$129

 

Daisy Street Leya Icon Button Detail Long Shorts

DAISY STREET
Leya Icon Button Detail Long Shorts
$76

 

Alpaca-Blend Cardigan - Cream - Lookbook

& OTHER STORIES
Alpaca-Blend Cardigan
$129

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