farmer’s markets & futurism: trend forecast 2026

As we approach the last few months of 2025, I reflect on the trends, colors, and textures that dominated the fashion scene this year. In January, I predicted that butter yellow would be seen across all levels of the industry, from fast fashion to the runway. As a visual merchandiser for H&M, I observed the company’s collections adapt to the trends of the year. Matching sweatsuits (especially in yellow), bubble hem skirts, romantic blouses, and brown and blue pairings were key moments this year. As our social, environmental, economic, and political landscapes continue to change rapidly, so will the way we express ourselves through clothing.

Aquatic tones are expected to be prevalent next year, with pastel powder blue (dubbed “Blue Aura” by WGSN), and deep teal (“Transformative Teal”) being standout colors. Consumers’ unrest due to climate challenges will be reflected in color choices. Shades will be restorative, calming, and earthly to represent hope for the planet’s future. Simultaneously, deep teal can present futuristically, especially in technology and home products. While bold tones are important during this period, their less-saturated counterparts are just as fundamental. Blue Aura, for example, presents a calming quality which will present best with airy sheers and soft materials.

"Transformative Teal" on the runway, images courtesy of Tagwalk (https://www.tag-walk.com/en/)

With an estimated $12 trillion spending power by 2030, Gen-Z is projected to have a growing and significant influence on product offerings across all markets (NielsenIQ, 2024). While Millenials and Gen-X tend to prefer to spend their nights out at the club or bar, Gen-Z has highlighted a notable shift to daytime socializing and staying in. This lifestyle switch will be exhibited in the prints, graphics, and overall sentiment of fashion products. Cafes, coffees, and self-care days are the major themes of trending designs. Farmers markets, thrifting, and fresh ingredients will also be highlighted.

Food and beverage graphics trends, images courtesy of WGSN (https://www.wgsn.com/)

The exaggerated hourglass silhouette will make waves come Spring 2026. With a return to artfully tailored clothing, blazers and dress pants will also follow the hourglass figure. Experimentation with rigid shapes will be prevelant, and loud, gaudy accessories will perfectly complement this bold shift in shape.

Exaggerated hourglass images courtesy of WWD (https://wwd.com)

Representing a yearning for a fun, effortless, and carefree lifestyle, fringe will dominate the fashion scene. A stark contrast to the rigid nature of the hourglass silhouette, fringe will be used as a bold, yet chic addition to everyday outfits. It will also be implemented in accessories, such as handbags, belts, and jewelry. Similarly, the “undone" aesthetic (meaning pieces that look unfinished, unbuttoned, or unusual) will be prominent, highlighting another consumer need for relaxed but elevated lifestyles.

Fringe and “undone” images courtesy of WWD (https://wwd.com)