Poetcore: this is the trend of 2026
Now that we are approaching the turn of the year, it's time to discuss some trends. Because yes, how are we going to dress? In what kind of aesthetic are we going to live – or at least: what are we going to see again in stores and on the catwalks? Pinterest knows. This is the paradise of trends. They are the place where trendsetters go for inspiration. How do they know that? The company analyzes every year what we are massively pinning on our ‘boards’. The trends that are becoming popular will definitely mark the beginning of 2026. So far, it appears that 88% of all predictions always comes true. So we want to know: what is currently one of the most rising trends? That is Poetcore. What this is and how we think it will take over the world, I will tell you.
What is Poetcore again?
First of all: a ‘core’ is the essence of something, but online we quickly call something a core if it is the essence of a certain aesthetic. This can really be anything, just think of ‘Dutch core’. This is about what the Netherlands is like and in what forms you see this reflected in pop culture, interior design, and clothing. Poetcore has joined that long list. According to the Pinterest 2026 Trends & Insights Report, there is a 75 percent increase in searches for this style. ‘The poet aesthetic’ even has a 175 percent increase compared to last year.
Me romanticizing my entire 2026 life now that Poetcore is trending on Pinterest. Share this with the one who will wear our Poetcore trend well in 2026.
In Poetcore, we are mainly romanticizing poets and their tortured lives. Now, this doesn't mean we all want to start smoking, become depressed, and solve murders (hello The Secret History), but that we mainly appreciate the style of it. It comes close to the Dark Academia style: dark colors, blouses, tights, loafers, blazers, and basically everything you could see in the movie Dead Poets Society. It's about more than just clothing, of course. It's about embracing the cold, dark autumn and winter days. That you immerse yourself in books, read poetry, and are really making yourself smarter. It's a sign that analog things are gaining popularity again. Now that vinyl records and digital cameras are flying off the shelves, more and more people are journaling on real paper. They write with expensive ink pens, wear ties, and yes, also turtlenecks again.
@csimpppssss (3/4) poetcore: books, blazers and sophisticated vibes for 2026 #poetcore #pinterestpredicts #trendpredictions #2026trends #bookaesthetic
How are we going to see this aesthetic in practice?
First of all, you will see this reflected in behavior. People who really want to embrace Poetcore will want to read more. And mainly classics. Be prepared to see people in a coffee shop reading To Kill a Mockingbird, The Picture of Dorian Gray, and The Great Gatsby. Is that a bit too highbrow? Then there are many Poetcore-like fiction books like my all-time favorite The Secret History and If We Were Villains. They might want to live more analog, so they will journal, buy a record player, and invest in vintage items.
In addition, we will of course see this aesthetic the most in clothing and accessories. If there is something we see change, it is that. Have you rediscovered yourself and want to be a completely new you? Then you will go crazy buying a whole new wardrobe that fits:
1. Blazers
A checked blazer is really a staple in Poetcore. Whether it's a long blazer that almost reaches the ground or a shorter blazer: you can combine this with anything. Wear a thick sweater underneath with a white collar above it, or make it a bit more mature with a simple black turtleneck and good trousers. In Poetcore, it's all about looking like you're going to an elite school and studying poets with your classmates for days.
2. classic looks
Do you see yourself studying in Oxford, all day in your cute outfit? Then you're in luck. In Poetcore, you see a lot of neutral tones and textures that you learn to combine well. Blouses go under cardigans, skirts are combined with high socks and ballerinas. Everyone carries real leather bags and good wool sweaters. And if possible, you have a book in your hand.
@birdie.bristlecone Saturday fit check for errands and a chilly garden walk 💗 #darkacademia #fantasyfashion #poetblouse #darkacademiaoutfits
3. The ‘poet blouse’
If I see anything in all that outfit inspiration, it's an elegant blouse. These are usually adorned with lace and other delicate details. With ruffles, high necklines, and beautiful buttons. Is there a puff sleeve? Then you're really doing it right. You saw them a lot at brands like Chloé in the fall collections, and they are really here to stay.
4. Ties
Whether you wear them as a scarf or proudly hang them around your neck like a businessman: ties are and remain completely in.
5. the check
We discussed this a lot in May's fashion college; the check is one of the biggest trends of 2026, so it's not surprising that we see this in Poetcore. It seems that the check and poets are connected. In every movie, series, and book where we follow these tortured people, they always wear long coats and checks. Checked skirts, blouses, jackets – really, you can do so much with the check. Go ahead and get that red pair of trousers you first thought: “Isn't it too much?” It definitely is not. Try wearing such a blouse under your sweater – that checked collar really adds a cool touch to your outfit. And who knows, another poet might find you appealing because of your look.
@madebyako these are what we stay alive for ‘ 🫀 • #outfitoftheday | #deadpoetsociety | #mrkeating | #neilperry | #dps
Do you like this new style? I personally do. As a writer, I always feel drawn to this poetry world, so I'm all in for this dark aesthetic. By romanticizing winter a bit, we will get through it together.
