Let's Get Dressed She Predicted 2025’s Biggest Fashion Trends — Here’s What 2026 Has in Store For Us, with Mandy Lee
Jan 5, 2026
In this insightful chat, trend forecaster Mandy Lee, known as Old Loser in Brooklyn, shares her unique approach to predicting fashion movements. She reveals what trends are set to dominate in 2026, emphasizing the rise of functionality and surrealism in style. Mandy discusses the influence of politics and culture on fashion and highlights key brands to watch. From toes becoming the focal point of accessories to the resurgence of aviator hats, her forecasts weave a fascinating narrative of upcoming trends shaped by societal changes.
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Unexpected Start Sparked A Career
- Mandy Lee got laid off during the pandemic and created her TikTok as a throwaway account called Old Loser in Brooklyn.
- The account grew into her trend-forecasting platform after she remade it when her first handle was deleted.
Forecast From Culture First
- Mandy starts forecasting with cultural theory: political, economic, and social forces shape fashion.
- She then translates those signals into visual themes and specific product categories.
Uniqueness As Authenticity Signal
- Social media incentivizes uniqueness as a sign of authenticity, driving appetite for odd and extreme fashion.
- That craving fuels trends like grotesque or surreal accessories to signal individuality.