The Laws of Fashion: What’s Trending in 2026
Head to Toe, Foley Has You Covered
As we enter 2026, the fashion, apparel, and beauty industry stands at a pivotal moment. Market normalization after years of disruption, renewed supply chain activity, intensifying regulatory oversight, and rapid technological adoption are reshaping competitive dynamics across the sector. At the same time, consumer behavior — from “self-duping” culture to heightened scrutiny of brand authenticity — continues to test traditional assumptions about value, loyalty, and growth. Together, these forces are creating a more complex operating environment defined by both opportunity and risk.
Foley & Lardner’s Fashion, Apparel & Beauty 2026 Outlook brings together multidisciplinary perspectives on the developments most likely to shape the year ahead. This report examines key cases influencing industry strategy, the rebound in global supply chains and related brand-manufacturer disputes, and evolving drivers of value in fashion and beauty M&A. It also explores bankruptcy trends affecting fashion companies, and the growing strategic importance of trademark and design protection in beauty.
We analyze the expanding regulatory landscape — including compliance challenges under the FTC’s Care Labeling Rule and CPSC oversight of jewelry, as well as implementation of MoCRA and its impact on FDA oversight of cosmetics. In parallel, we address data privacy risk and the tension between innovation and brand integrity as AI adoption accelerates across design, marketing, and operations.
Drawing on cross-disciplinary experience across litigation, regulatory, transactional, and compliance matters, Foley’s Fashion, Apparel & Beauty industry team remains closely aligned with evolving market conditions and enforcement priorities. We welcome the opportunity to discuss these issues with you in further detail.
Table of Contents
Navigating the FTC Care Labeling Rule in the Modern Age
Where Premiums Will Be Paid: Fashion & Beauty M&A Trends from 2025 to 2026
How AI, Digital Doubles, and New Laws Are Rewriting Fashion and Beauty
Global Supply Chain Rebound Brings Brand-Manufacturer Disputes in 2026
Beyond the Label – Trademark and Design Protection as a Competitive Edge in Beauty
How MoCRA is Reshaping FDA Oversight of Cosmetics in 2026
Restructuring the Runway: How Chapter 11 363 Sales Are Reshaping Fashion and Beauty
Innovation in Fashion – AI Adoption vs. Brand Integrity
Cut, Clarity…and Compliance: How the CPSC Regulates Jewelry and Accessories
