Tiny Things, a Gold Renaissance, Exclusivity and Logging Off Are Among Key Trends for 2026

Think small, don’t be too serious and log off.

These are among the top trends predicted by WGSN in its “Top Trends for 2026 and Beyond” report.

Among the other top trends are that exclusivity is making a comeback, being vigilant with your valuables on the go is a rising priority, and a gold renaissance is having a moment.

“WGSN has been forecasting trends since the late ’90s and over that time we have iterated and honed our forecasting methodology to respond to new sources of information and tools such as AI data forecasts and social media,” Francesca Muston, chief forecasting officer at WGSN, told WWD.

Its methodology scans the globe for shifts and signals in the future of society, technology, economics, politics, industry and creativity. “We draw on a mix of quantitative and qualitative information in these pillars, which we synthesize to create our macro forecasts. These forecasts identify the drivers, innovations and big ideas that will impact the future consumer,” Muston said.

The company said the forecast’s trends are set to define 2026, but their clients have been preparing for them since 2024. From Unserious Everything to The Cult of Cute, WGSN outlined the shifts that it believes will impact beauty, fashion, tech, food and drink, interiors and beyond next year.

For example, “anything serious is out, anything unserious is in,” according to WGSN. Consumers are seeking powerful tools for emotional release and moments of self care.

In the beauty arena, PDRN is moving from professional clinics and “tweakments” to K-beauty serums, and heading for the global mainstream. It is emerging as the regenerative of 2026, delivering clinic-grade results in at-home formats such as sheet masks, eye creams and hair ampoules.

GLP-1 drugs might be dominating the health and beauty conversation, but WGSN sees a new beauty counter trend emerging. These products are designed for the wellness-first, pharma-hesitant consumer, delivering sculpting, toning and weight-supportive results, with no prescription required. Lymphatic-drainage creams and de-bloat serums to contouring face wraps and tightening tools signal the rise of beauty products that claim to be side-effect-free and mimic the benefits of injectables. Consumers will seek alternatives that protect and support the skin during weight changes to help them achieve their desired aesthetic without medication, according to WGSN.

Another top trend is that logging off is the new luxury logo. WGSN noted that people who are able to disconnect without sacrificing their career or social standing will view it as a status symbol. “With nearly half of young adults stating that online life harms their well-being, brands can design digital detox experiences, boredom-positive spaces and offline sanctuaries that spark creativity and presence,” WGSN said. They suggested a sign of cool is going on vacation without sharing a single Instagram Reel.

Further, exclusivity is making a comeback and sharing product recommendations is outdated, WGSN said. “As viral trends burn out faster than ever, consumers will guard the products and spaces that define them. Why share and have your favorite café overrun?” according to WGSN.

The forecaster said exclusivity is the new social currency with brands fostering closed communities through locked Reels, broadcast channels and invite-only groups.

Guardian design is a rising priority. Anti-theft features are appearing on accessories and apparel. “Think button shoulder straps on coats and jackets that safeguard your handbag, invisible inner or anti-slash and RFID-blocking pockets with tunnel-locked zippers, and beautiful branded carabiner clips to secure your bag to chairs and table,” WGSN said.

Gold is another top trend for 2026. In the fashion world, gold is having its highest run as a status metal from a market pricing POV, WGSN said. “In a time of uncertainty, it offers stability and status,” the forecast said. “Gold is ascending as opulence emerges out of the growing influence of ’80s status dressing and vintage style. Expect bold jewelry to add high-octane glamour to the most casual looks. Layering in a touch of lamé via scarves, bags and footwear will update multiple outfits,” according to WGSN.

Another trend is the cult of cute tech. While this has been pervasive in APAC countries, it’s spreading to the West. It has infiltrated a new wave of consumer tech products and experiences that imbue warmth, comfort and emotional connection.

Tiny things and miniature everything is also a trend, which is having a moment with bite-sized and cost-friendly indulgences, from toys to collectibles.

Finally, rugged luxury — sports and outdoor — is a response to consumer fatigue. The trend infuses outdoor gear with high-performance durability and elevated design. Think glamping and sophisticated escapism.

In addition, WGSN has selected its color of the year for 2026. It is Transformative Teal, which sits between blue and green. The color champions the importance of an Earth-first mindset, according to WGSN. The color aligns with the need for recovery, regeneration and redirection, driven by the need to find solutions for the planet.