Pinterest Predicts™: Nonconformity, self-preservation, and escapism drive 21 trends for 2026

In 2026, consumers will seek comfort, authenticity, and optimism to quiet the constant noise of the world and social media according to Pinterest Predicts™ – our annual report on the top trends to watch for the upcoming year.

Trends are growing 4.4x faster than they were seven years ago. And in 2026, people will look to combat trend fatigue with 21 predictions that focus on personal exploration in three key ways:

• Emotional comfort and belonging. Comfort is consumers’ primary emotional crutch, with 55% of global respondents prioritising it as a need in their daily lives. They’re engaging in safe havens, finding relief in everyday rituals, and using nostalgia to feel like themselves again.
• Curating, not copying. Consumers are drawn to trends that align with who they are or aspire to be: 42% of global respondents say they only participate in trends that suit them.
• Grounded optimism. The five-year plan is dead; most consumers can’t envision a future beyond 24 months. People are seeking grounded optimism in the present, with escapism as their emotional fuel.

“From Glitchy Glam to Pen Pals, Pinterest is the perfect place for people to escape overstimulation through trends that don’t create social comparison or FOMO. Instead, these Pinterest trends preserve individualism and personal identities,” said Pinterest Global Head of Trends and Insights, Sydney Stanback. “In 2026, people will make these trends their own, put unique spins on each, and ensure that what’s trending never comes at the cost of personal expression.”

For the first time, Pinterest is partnering with a select group of forward-thinking brands and retailers to help users shop the trends in a new on-platform shopping experience. Our partners – Cult Beauty, Tommy Hilfiger, and Wolf & Badger – will curate their collections around the trends set to define 2026, inviting Pinners to discover, try and “shop the trends” all in one inspiring place.

EMOTIONAL COMFORT & BELONGING

Over the past few years, Pinterest has seen a rise in nostalgic trends that transport people back to childhood because looking to the past provides people with comfort. They are craving simpler times with 52% of respondents saying they’re rewatching classic TV or films. Nearly 4 in 10 are cooking or eating traditional comfort foods. Our study found that nostalgia is evolving into “reclamation,” fusing the past with the present to brace for a future unknown.

In 2026, we’re going full-on gummy. Gen Z and Millennials are behind this ASMR overload—think bendy phone cases, elastic cheek tints and probiotic treats that have that spring-back bite. Expect rubberised nail art and 3D jewellery to become your new tactile obsession.

• “gummy bears aesthetic”: +50%
• “yokan”: +60%
• “agar agar”: +35%
• “jelly blush”: +130%
• “jelly candy aesthetic”: +100%

FunHaus

Big top, bigger personality. In 2026, circus-inspired home decor will be on the rise thanks to Boomers and Millennials. Think bold stripes, sculptural silhouettes and just a wink of clownish charm. The trick is balance: Pair punch-line patterns with pared-back palettes so the space feels elevated, with a touch of camp.

• “striped ceiling”: +40%
• “circus nursery”: +50%
• “circus interior”: +130%
• “circus art”: +35%
• “vintage circus aesthetic”: +70%

Throwback Kid

In 2026, childhood gets a throwback twist with vintage-inspired outfits, classic toys from the ’60s and upcycled baby looks. Crochet play mats will bring cosy vibes to any nursery, while Baby Boomers and Gen X will thrift mini fits. Let’s go back in (play)time.

• “1970s childhood toys”: +125%
• “upcycled baby clothes”: +95%
• “vintage kids fashion”: +35%
• “nostalgia toys”: +225%
• “2000s kids toys”: +140%

Pen Pals

Your inbox is about to get jealous of your mailbox. Expect a letter writing renaissance in 2026, as Gen Z and Millennials turn snail mail into performance art. Think elaborate envelopes, special stationery and so many stamps. DMs, you’re dust.

• “cute stamps”: +105%
• “penpal letters”: +35%
• “hand written letters”: +45%
• “penpal ideas”: +90%
• “snail mail gifts”: +110%

Cabbage Crush

The motto for 2026? Live, laugh, leaf. In the year ahead, Boomers and Gen X will say goodbye to their cauliflower obsession and crown cabbage the new kitchen MVP. Think blistered-edge “steaks,” kimchi cocktails and even crispier taco wraps. It’s crunch time, baby.

• “sautéed bok choy”: +35%
• “cabbage dumplings”: +110%
• “golumpki soup”: +95%
• “cabbage alfredo”: +45%
• “fermented cabbage”: +35%

CURATING, NOT COPYING 

The desire to understand and protect oneself shows up in two ways: carefully choosing what parts of our identity to share publicly and openly expressing who we are. In a shift from past norms, people in 2026 will not consider trends as cultural mandates, but rather opportunities for identity curation and personal expression. 

2026 will bring a fusion of African and bohemian styles, thanks to Boomers and Gen X. Searches for “african boho living room” and “afro chic home decor” are trending up on Pinterest, a sign that decor is going to Dakar and beyond. Expect colourful Nigerian textiles and Ethiopian wall art alongside handwoven baskets and natural fiber rugs.

• “afrobohemian home decor”: +220%
• “adire fabric”: +130%
• “motif berbere”: +210%
• “bamboo beaded curtains”: +60%
• “ethiopian art”: +50%
• “rattan accent chair”: +50%

Glamoratti

The decade of decadence is back in style—and honestly, it’s about time. Tailored suits with sculpted shoulders will grow three sizes. Funnel necks will be the base of every outfit. And jewellery? Well, that’ll get chunkier, bolder and golder. Gen Z and Millennials are driving this maximalist aesthetic.

• “chunky belt”: +65%
• “baggy suit”: +90%
• “high collar jacket”: +60%
• “gold cuff”: +50%
• “80s luxury”: +225%

Poetcore

Aspiring authors, assemble. In 2026, Gen Z and Millennials will channel their inner protagonist with oversized turtlenecks, vintage blazers and messenger satchels. Oh, and don’t forget the fountain pen. Consider this your aesthetic MFA—no student loans required.

• “the poet aesthetic”: +175%
• “poet core”: +75%
• “cape outfit”: +65%
• “satchel bags aesthetic”: +85%
• “tie accessories”: +85%

Khaki Coded

Dig into fashion’s newest find. This year, Gen Z and Millennials will embrace a new aesthetic inspired by wanderers of the world. Think khaki bermuda shorts, adventure-ready streetwear and vests with pockets on pockets. If your look can survive actual desert conditions, you’re doing it right.

• “pleated trousers”: +30%
• “utility shirt”: +45%
• “field jacket outfit men”: +65%
• “paleontologist aesthetic”: +35%
• “brown linen shirt”: +100%

Neo Deco

The Art Deco trend is getting a modern twist: Shiny, sleek and tuned to 2026. After years of heavy minimalism, Gen X and Millennials are bringing this retro aesthetic back with crisp chevrons, fan arches and other geometric hits, all edged in chrome or brass. Bold, glam—and just a touch eccentric.

• “pendant lamp”: +40%
• “red marble bathroom”: +80%
• “antique bar cart”: +100%
• “brass aesthetic”: +35%
• “leather banquette”: +35%

Personal expression trends:

Also in 2026, identity expression will emerge in the form of remixing. Nearly a quarter of Gen Z and Millennial consumers who engage with trends globally say the way they avoid trend fatigue is by putting their own spin on them.

Glitchy Glam

The perfect winged liner? She doesn’t go here. This year, beauty is missing the mark—on purpose. Gen Z and Millennials will rock mismatched manicures, two-toned lipstick and bright eyeshadow in two binary hues. So long, symmetry.

• “eccentric makeup”: +100%
• “weird makeup looks”: +115%
• “nails with different colours on each hand”: +125%
• “asymmetrical lob”: +85%
• “avant garde makeup editorial”: +270%

Brooched

There’s a new way to wear your heart on your sleeve. Or tie. Or socks. In 2026, Boomer and Millennial men will punctuate their fits with vintage pins, crystal clip-ons and heirloom brooches. It’s part homage, part reinvention. If your grandma wouldn’t wear it, is it even the vibe?

• “brooch for men suit”: +90%
• “maximalist accessories”: +105%
• “heirloom jewellery”: +45%
• “lapel shirt”: +95%
• “brooch aesthetic”: +110%

Pinterest is partnering with music sensation and generational voice, Sekou, to create a one-of-a-kind special live performance video inspired by the Pinterest Predicts 2026 Brooched trend.

Laced Up

The doily makes its big debut in 2026, bringing an unexpected elegance to absolutely everything. Bomber jackets will get lacy collars, bandanas will be softly stitched—and even phone cases will go crochet. Gen Z and Millennials are driving this trend, gently reminding us that more is more: especially when it’s this pretty.

• “lace nails”: +215%
• “lace belt”: +55%
• “lace bandana”: +150%
• “lace doily”: +105%
• “lace makeup”: +120%

Scent Stacking

It’s time to mix up your spritz. Gen Z and Millennials are ditching one-and-done scents for bespoke notes, blending oils and perfumes to craft their very own fragrance formulas. Expect luxury to linger in layers next year.

• “niche perfume collection”: +500%
• “perfume layering combinations”: +125%
• “signature scent”: +45%
• “scent layering”: +75%
• “perfume notes”: +80%

Vamp Romantic

Beauty bites back with this 2026 trend. Millennials and Gen Z will go all in on an after-dark aesthetic, embracing jet black nails, romantic goth hairstyles and a smudged kohl smokey eye—all with a touch of glossy glamour. Who says you can’t be both haunting and heartbreaking?

• “vampire haircut”: +40%
• “dark romantic makeup”: +160%
• “carmilla aesthetic”: +60%
• “vampire beauty”: +90%
• “gothic coffin nails”: +180%

GROUNDED OPTIMISM 

Seeking to cope, recharge, and restore from burnout, many are turning to creative and imaginative escapism. When asked what brought them joy recently, the top answer was escapism, followed by re-engaging with nature, and self-care. 

Younger generations are turning to fashion and beauty as an escape, with Gen Z respondents 38% more likely to say they’ve embraced self-expression to stay emotionally connected and creatively fulfilled.

Meet the shade that refuses to warm up to anyone. Gen Z and Millennials are bringing a subzero sophistication to absolutely everything in 2026—think cool-toned coats, glacier-inspired accessories and the frostiest of cocktails. It’s the temp drop we’ve all been waiting for.

• glacier aesthetic”: +35%
• “blue drinks aesthetic”: +55%
• “icy blue”: +50%
• “frosted makeup”: + 150% 
• “ice blue wedding dress”: +55%

Bleach London have collaborated with Pinterest to freeze over their Dalston salon, curating a menu of blue hair looks, inspired by Pinterest Predicts 2026 Cool Blue colour trend. What’s more, they are offering a day of free Cool Blue dyes at the salon – so you can make the look your own.

Wilderkind

A trend that whispers instead of roars. In 2026, Gen Z and Boomers will go all in on animal aesthetics—but with a delicate touch. Think soft fawn freckles, butterfly wing nail art and fox-inspired outfits that hint at forest magic.

• “bug jewellery”: +60%
• “deer aesthetic”: +55%
• “dragonfly nails”: +145%
• “flower outfit men”: +105%
• “animal inspired outfits”: +90%

Pinterest has teamed up with CASETiFY to create a delicate new collection of phone cases and accessories, inspired by Pinterest Predicts 2026 Wilderkind trend. Think forest-core fantasy: fawn freckles, butterfly wings, fox tails, and all available to purchase globally at http://www.casetify.com. In London, experience the Wilderkind aesthetic at CASETiFY’s Selfridges studio shop and see the collab first-hand.

Extra Celestial

In 2026, Gen Z and Millennials are going intergalactic. Think holographic home accents, opalescent eyeshadow that looks like moon dust and cosmic silhouettes straight out of a sci-fi movie. The aliens have landed—and they have fabulous taste.

• “alien core aesthetic”: +80%
• “opalescent”: +115%
• “futuristic truck”: +60%
• “alien inspired makeup”: +140%
• “soft dewy makeup”: +115%

Opera Aesthetic

Picture this: Dramatic drapery, red roses and a string quartet playing dark cabaret. In 2026, parties will become more opulent than ever as Millennials and Gen Z bring the vintage theater aesthetic to every one of their gatherings. Cue the curtain—every detail will be dialled to the nines.

• “opera theatre”: +35%
• “midnight masquerade”: +95%
• “wedding ceiling draping”: +40%
• “opera outfits”: +55%
• “masquerade decor”: +40%

Mystic Outlands

Fairytale meets fever dream in 2026’s biggest travel trend. Millennials and Boomers will seek out whimsical, mystical destinations: Distant ruins swallowed by mist, naturally-occurring spirals and moody, enchanting forests. If you come back with more questions than answers—well, that’s the whole point.

• “scotland highlands aesthetic”: +465%
• “faroe islands aesthetic”: +95%
• “bolivia salar de uyuni”: +70%
• “arashiyama bamboo forest”: +50%
• “ethereal places”: +45% 

Darecations

Sitting on the beach? Snooze. In 2026, we’re traveling for the thrill of it. Gen Z and Millennials will seek out full-throttle, adrenaline-inspired tourism—think river rafting through class five rapids, rappelling waterfalls on canyoneering routes or timing vacations around global sporting events. What’s a comfort zone?

• “auto racing events”: +85%
• “river rafting”: +35%
• “adrenaline rush aesthetic”: +50%
• “adventure tourism”: +75%
• “football tournament”: +50%

Pinterest has teamed up with youth culture magazine i–D to bring the Predicts trends to life. i-D’s editors and tastemakers, including guest editors Corbin Shaw and Lucila Safdie, are reimagining the biggest trends through writing, photography and design for the i-D x Pinterest Zine. Fans can get their hands on the limited-edition zine through street drops across London and and an exclusive giveaway on i-D.co

Six-hundred million people come to Pinterest each month to search and shop for the next big thing, which gives us unique insight into what’s soon-to-be-trending. Pinterest is a uniquely visual platform, so our trend analysis goes beyond search queries. We look at the complete picture—the colours, aesthetics, and styles people are drawn to. By analysing year-over-year growth, we identify the fast-rising patterns and curate findings into the future-looking report, which has proven over the past six years to be 88% accurate. And while 67% of the 2026 trends are driven by Gen Z, the trends span generations.

Source: Pinterest

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