anything goes with emma chamberlain

my ins and outs for 2026

January 1, 2026

Key Takeaways Copied to clipboard!

  • In the episode "my ins and outs for 2026" of "anything goes with emma chamberlain," Emma Chamberlain predicts a cultural shift toward lightheartedness, authenticity, and less self-censorship, exemplified by trends like non-stereotypical personalities and direct communication. 
  • The predictions for 2026 suggest a move away from overly curated digital communication (like elaborate Instagram captions and emojis) toward more genuine, less high-maintenance interactions, such as texting pen pals and embracing vocabulary expansion. 
  • A bonus category highlights trends expected to be out but that will persist into 2026, including the continued popularity of protein-boosted foods, Stanley Cups, and elaborate skincare routines, alongside the unfortunate continuation of cigarette use due to addiction and cultural momentum. 

Segments

2026 In: Casual Jewelry
Copied to clipboard!
(00:02:13)
  • Key Takeaway: Toe rings and chokers are predicted to be in for 2026, signaling a return to a more playful, free-spirited, and less seriously taken fashion energy, possibly referencing a 2010s revival.
  • Summary: The energy for 2026 suggests a preference for ‘chill jewelry’ like toe rings and chokers over timeless, elegant pieces. This trend is associated with a lighthearted approach to fashion, contrasting with chunky statement gold jewelry. Anklets may also return alongside chokers and toe rings.
2026 In: Musical Bands
Copied to clipboard!
(00:04:12)
  • Key Takeaway: Musical bands, like The Beatles or ABBA, are predicted to make a comeback in 2026, shifting focus away from the dominance of solo artists.
  • Summary: Band culture, including having band posters on the wall, is expected to return, bringing a romantic energy associated with groups of friends making music together. This shift counters the recent trend favoring solo pop and indie artists. The return of bands feels exciting as they have been less prevalent recently.
2026 In: Duality & Inconsistency
Copied to clipboard!
(00:06:02)
  • Key Takeaway: Having a non-stereotypical or inconsistent personality, embracing duality where seemingly contradictory traits coexist, is in for 2026.
  • Summary: People are moving away from being obsessed with consistent aesthetics and fitting into boxes like ‘cottage core’ or ‘Pilates princess.’ The trend encourages embracing complexity, such as a goth gym rat or a Pilates enthusiast who smokes cigarettes. This dynamic approach allows individuals to lean into their multifaceted nature.
2026 In: Convertible Cars Energy
Copied to clipboard!
(00:07:28)
  • Key Takeaway: Convertible cars represent the 2026 energy of wanting fun, freedom, and a desire to feel the wind, even if mass sales don’t drastically increase.
  • Summary: The energy of driving with the top down, headscarf on, embodies the desire for fun in 2026, suggesting people want to breathe and be ‘one with the earth.’ This feeling is expected to slightly increase convertible car sales as people tire of stuffy indoor environments. The concept is more about the feeling than the actual vehicle ownership.
2026 In: Vocabulary Expansion
Copied to clipboard!
(00:08:28)
  • Key Takeaway: Looking up unknown words and actively growing vocabulary is in for 2026, signaling a move away from overused Gen Z slang like ‘chopped.’
  • Summary: There is a craving for eloquence, as sounding smart is favored over using trendy slang that has lost its impact. Expanding vocabulary through reading and dictionary use is encouraged as a positive shift. This aims to replace potentially unexciting or overused trendy language.
2026 In: Peanut Butter Return
Copied to clipboard!
(00:10:26)
  • Key Takeaway: Peanut butter is returning as a favored, classic food in 2026, signaling a ‘return to self’ after a period of favoring extravagant nut butters.
  • Summary: Peanut butter, used in desserts, snacks, and with fruits, is back in alignment with a lighthearted, fun, and classic energy for the year. Extravagant butters like pistachio and hazelnut are being overlooked in favor of the familiar taste of peanut butter. This reflects a cultural move away from overcomplicating simple pleasures.
2026 In: Croissant Sandwiches
Copied to clipboard!
(00:11:18)
  • Key Takeaway: Croissant sandwiches are in for 2026 because their light, buttery, flaky texture allows the fillings to shine without the bread overpowering the flavor.
  • Summary: Croissant sandwiches are considered underrated and delicious, suitable for various fillings from pesto and mozzarella to bacon, egg, and cheese. The croissant’s lightness prevents the bread from being too heavy, unlike traditional sandwich bread. This format allows the interior ingredients to be the focus.
2026 In: Talking to Strangers
Copied to clipboard!
(00:12:29)
  • Key Takeaway: Talking to strangers is in for 2026 as a remedy for the isolation caused by the internet age, prioritizing genuine connection over silence in public spaces.
  • Summary: Silence in elevators and cafes, and sticking only to one’s friends at bars, is out; direct interaction is in. Engaging with strangers leads to enjoyable memories and combats loneliness felt due to digital saturation. Safety and mindfulness should still be observed during these interactions.
2026 In: Long-Lasting Lip Stains
Copied to clipboard!
(00:13:22)
  • Key Takeaway: Lip stains are in because people are tired of constantly reapplying lip products, prioritizing longevity through eating, drinking, and living.
  • Summary: The desire for a lip product that stays put through all activities—eating, kissing, laughing—is strong for 2026. This reflects a broader energy of wanting to live life lightheartedly without worrying about constant touch-ups. Lip stains allow for a consistent look while engaging in activities.
2026 In: Utilizing Free Will
Copied to clipboard!
(00:14:09)
  • Key Takeaway: Being random, spontaneous, and utilizing free will by breaking routine is in for 2026 to force presence and combat autopilot living.
  • Summary: Breaking routine, such as taking a spontaneous road trip or trying a new grocery store, forces focus and attention on the world, which is currently craved. This practice grounds individuals who often get caught up in daily minutiae and forget their capacity for randomness. Being present is a key benefit of breaking established patterns.
2026 In: Texting Pen Pals
Copied to clipboard!
(00:16:19)
  • Key Takeaway: Maintaining friendships through infrequent, long-form texting with friends who live far away, treating them as ‘pen pals via text,’ is in for 2026.
  • Summary: This method involves texting once or twice a month with long response gaps, where no one gets offended by the delay. It offers a reasonable way to stay connected without the pressure of immediate replies common in constant digital communication. This structure provides necessary breathing room in maintaining long-distance friendships.
2026 Out: Charcuterie Boards
Copied to clipboard!
(00:17:44)
  • Key Takeaway: Massive charcuterie and cheese boards are out in 2026 due to wastefulness, their tendency to remain untouched at gatherings, and the discomfort they cause (like gas from cheese).
  • Summary: Hosts often face waste when making large boards, and guests frequently avoid them, especially if dinner follows, as cheese is filling and can cause digestive issues. While small cheese plates at wine bars might persist, the large, elaborate displays are deemed over. This shift reflects a move away from overly utilized social gathering centerpieces.
2026 Out: Overusing Cuss Words
Copied to clipboard!
(00:19:50)
  • Key Takeaway: Overusing cuss words is out because they have lost their impact, and the goal for 2026 is to save them for moments where they carry necessary gravitas.
  • Summary: Constant use of words like ‘fuck’ and ‘shit’ diminishes their power, making them ineffective for emphasis. The speaker aims to regain the ability for bad words to make people ‘jump a little’ when used appropriately. This aligns with the broader desire for more eloquent communication.
2026 Out: Instagram Captions & Emojis
Copied to clipboard!
(00:20:56)
  • Key Takeaway: Writing elaborate Instagram captions and using emojis are out because both require too much thought and often result in cliché or confusing communication.
  • Summary: The preference is to post photos that speak for themselves without the pressure of crafting funny or heartfelt captions, even if it negatively impacts the algorithm. Emojis are also out because their complex, double meanings (e.g., sarcastic heart) have complicated communication, leading to a preference for expressing tone purely through typed words.
2026 Out: Having Favorites
Copied to clipboard!
(00:22:45)
  • Key Takeaway: Having fixed favorites—like a favorite food or color—is out because it boxes people in, contradicting the complex, evolving nature of individuals.
  • Summary: People should embrace cravings and changing preferences rather than being defined by a single favorite food or color, as individuals are constantly evolving. The speaker notes fluctuating desires for various foods (sushi, tater tots, curry) and colors (blue, pastel yellow, maroon). This trend encourages acknowledging complexity over simple categorization.
Bonus In: Pilates and Yoga
Copied to clipboard!
(00:34:08)
  • Key Takeaway: Pilates remains in for 2026 as a satisfying, challenging, and slower-paced workout, while yoga and hiking are predicted to have a significant cultural moment.
  • Summary: Despite potentially toxic surrounding culture and obsession with body types, the physical act of Pilates is enjoyable and sustainable for routine. The speaker prefers matte or hot Pilates over reformer machines. Yoga and hiking are anticipated to become more trendy, aligning with the overall desire for lighthearted, effortless energy.
Bonus In: Cigarettes Persistence
Copied to clipboard!
(00:35:49)
  • Key Takeaway: Cigarettes remain in for 2026, not because they are desirable, but due to nicotine addiction and their current inclusion in the ‘cool’ cultural zeitgeist among pop stars and social gatherings.
  • Summary: The addictive nature of nicotine ensures that habits formed in 2025 will carry over into 2026, despite the speaker’s hope for recovery by 2027. Cigarettes are currently part of the zeitgeist, frequently appearing in social media posts and marketing imagery. This combination of addiction and trendiness keeps them culturally relevant for now.
Bonus In: Stanley Cups & Skincare
Copied to clipboard!
(00:37:07)
  • Key Takeaway: Stanley Cups remain in as a functional household item, and elaborate at-home skincare routines persist, though overly complex overnight masking rituals are likely out.
  • Summary: Stanley Cups are considered good, functional cups that have become a staple, even if their peak cultural relevance has slightly dimmed. Elaborate skincare, using many serums and devices at home, is still in, shifting focus away from expensive in-office treatments like Botox. However, the trend of sleeping in multiple masks and braces is too high-maintenance for the predicted 2026 energy.
Bonus In: Micro Trends Shrinking
Copied to clipboard!
(00:39:36)
  • Key Takeaway: Micro trends will continue to get smaller and shorter in 2026, moving toward hyper-specific niches before eventually disappearing entirely as internet subcultures proliferate.
  • Summary: Examples of micro trends include specific tank tops or clipping keychains to bags, which are very niche and short-lived. The trend cycle is accelerating, suggesting that soon, the sheer volume of subcultures will mean no single trend dominates. For 2026, expect these trends to become even more granular.
Bonus In: Food Staples Endure
Copied to clipboard!
(00:40:41)
  • Key Takeaway: Food staples like the customizable bowl and avocado toast are not going out in 2026, as they offer necessary nutrition, balance, and deliciousness.
  • Summary: Bowls remain in because they are nutritious, customizable, and currently lack a clear replacement trend, making them a staple for the foreseeable future. Avocado toast has achieved ’new classic’ status, similar to Eggs Benedict, transcending its ‘basic’ trend label. The cultural obsession with high-protein foods is also expected to continue into 2026.