The Pinterest Predicts 2026 trends report analyses user data to predict 21 trends that look towards where audiences are heading next. Building upon 2025’s themes of nostalgia, authenticity and experience, the predictions see 2026 leaning into themes of drama, tactility, and escapism.

Whilst some of the trends might seem a bit of a reach, with the likes of ‘Cabbage Crush’ and ‘Brooched’ making appearances, there are some emerging trends that we can definitely see shaping campaigns, events and brand aesthetics in 2026. Below, we’ll dive into our favourites and how we might expect them to play out this year.

Read on to find out more.

Glamoratti

Decadence is predicted to make a return, a much needed shift from the minimalist and clean aesthetics that have dominated in recent years. Glamoratti signals a move towards maximalism, with searches for 80s luxury up 225% and baggy suit +90%, tapping into retro maximalist chic. People are seeking bolder silhouettes, statement jewellery, and unapologetic glamour in 2026.

For brands, this trend opens up opportunities for more theatrical storytelling, from lavish event dressing with mirrored finishes and dramatic lighting, to glossy, editorial-inspired campaign visuals, and standout packaging. In 2026, decadence is back, creating the opportunity for confident, memorable statements.

Pen Pals

With nostalgia continuing to resonate, 2026 will see a renewed appreciation for slower, more tactile forms of communication. The Pen Pals trend reflects a continued desire to step away from digital interaction in favour of more traditional, analogue connection, with searches for handwritten letters up by 45% and penpal ideas up 90%.

We expect this to show up through tactile touchpoints in brand activations and experiential from handwritten notes to nostalgic installation pieces. As audiences place greater value on intention and authenticity, tangible experiences continue to become a powerful way for brands to build deeper emotional connections.

Opera Aesthetic

Drama and opulence are set to influence creative direction in 2026. Drawing inspiration from vintage theatre aesthetics, the Opera Aesthetic embraces rich colour palettes, luxurious textures, and cinematic storytelling. Searches for masquerade decor are up by 40% and opera outfits +55%, showing a real interest in vintage theatre opulence. 

In 2026, this trend lends itself particularly well to immersive events and editorial-style campaigns, building atmosphere and narrative as well as creating eye-catching visuals. For brands, it presents an opportunity to lean into sophistication and old-school glamour, creating moments that feel considered and elevated.

Fun Haus

Playfulness is set to be a key trend for 2026, taking on a more surreal form. Fun Haus introduces a sense of whimsy through oversized props, bold colours and patterns, and interactive design elements that encourage participation and joy. Searches for circus interior are up by 130% and vintage circus aesthetic by 70%.

Rather than feeling chaotic, this trend balances playful concepts with intentional execution. We expect to see it come through in experiential pop-ups, playful OOH, and visual identities that inject energy while still aligning with brand values.

Extra Celestial

Escapism remains a recurring theme, with 2026 looking further afield towards the cosmos for inspiration. Extra Celestial moves beyond novelty space references, instead embracing softer sci-fi aesthetics, iridescent textures, and deep, atmospheric colour palettes. Gen Z and Millennials are going intergalactic, with searches for opalescent up by 115% an alien core aesthetic by 80%.

This trend allows brands to tap into narratives of exploration, innovation, and imagination. Through ambient lighting, opalescent finishes, and immersive environments, campaigns can feel otherworldly while remaining refined and elevated.

Cool Blue

Pinterest have signalled Cool Blue as the shade of the year, embracing a crisp, glacial aesthetic. In 2026, Gen Z and Millennials are leaning into icy blues, frosted textures, and cool-toned finishes across fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, with searches for glacier aesthetic up by 35% and icy blue by 50%.

Embracing cool-toned imagery and icy blue colour palettes, brands can create an elevated feel in 2026 with cool sophistication. We can see this trend being applied experientially through chilled lighting schemes, translucent and reflective materials, and icy colour palettes that create immersive environments.

What this means for 2026?

Whilst Pinterest Predicts provides a fun insight into some of the aesthetic trends that their users are seeking, it also shows how important it is to understand your audience. Each trend may not be relevant to each brand or project however by looking at what Gen Z and Millennials are interested in, brands can better craft appealing and culturally relevant campaigns and experiences in 2026. If nothing else, the trend predictions provide a bit of creative inspiration for the year ahead, from marketing to events. 

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