Glamour, Thrill, and Alien Core: Pinterest's 2026 Forecast

Aesthetic Trends for 2026: A Fusion of Nostalgia, Fantasy and Creativity

The upcoming year is set to bring a unique blend of styles that reflect a mix of nostalgia, fantasy, and creativity. According to the latest Pinterest Predicts 2026 report, the aesthetics of 2026 will be heavily influenced by the '80s, aliens, and circus themes. This prediction is based on an analysis of user behavior and search trends over the past year, from September 2024 to August 2025.

Pinterest has consistently demonstrated its accuracy in predicting trends, with an 88% success rate over the past six years. The report highlights that 67% of the 2026 trends are driven by Gen Z, indicating a shift in consumer preferences towards more eclectic and expressive styles.

Home Decor Trends

One of the key areas highlighted in the report is home decor. Several distinct styles are expected to gain popularity:

• Afrohemian: Searches for "afrobohemian home decor" increased by 220%. This style incorporates textiles, wall art, baskets, and natural fiber rugs, reflecting a blend of African and bohemian influences.

• Funhaus: A rise in interest in circus-inspired home decor is anticipated, particularly among Boomers and Millennials. Terms like "vintage circus aesthetic," "circus nursery," and "circus interior" saw significant increases in search interest.

• Neodeco: The classic Art Deco style is being reimagined with modern twists. The trend includes sleek, shiny elements such as pendant lamps, antique bar carts, brass aesthetics, and leather banquettes.

Fashion and Beauty Trends

In the fashion and beauty sector, several notable trends are expected to emerge:

• Lace: Lace is set to make a big impact in both fashion and beauty. Search interest for items like lace nails, lace bandanas, lace doilies, and lace makeup has seen substantial increases.

• Brooches: There's a predicted surge in interest in brooches, especially among Boomer and Millennial men. These accessories might be worn in unconventional places like sleeves, ties, or socks, blending homage with reinvention.

• Colors: Cool blue and khaki are expected to be signature colors for 2026. Additionally, opalescence is gaining traction, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials.

Glamour and Opulence

Glamour and opulence are set to influence various aspects of life in 2026. Several searches related to these themes have seen significant increases:

• "80s luxury" up 225%.
• "Midnight masquerade" up 95%.
• "Dark romantic makeup" up 160%.
• "Eccentric makeup" up 100%.
• "Avant garde makeup editorial" up 270%.
• "Niche perfume collection" up 500%.
• "Alien inspired makeup" up 140%.

Writing and Reading Trends

There's a growing interest in offline hobbies, particularly in the realm of writing. The report predicts a "letter writing renaissance" with increased interest in "snail mail gifts" and "penpal ideas." The "poetcore" aesthetic is also expected to surge, with a 175% increase in interest.

Travel Trends

Travel in 2026 is expected to focus on thrill and adventure. Increased interest in auto racing events, adventure tourism, and football tournaments is anticipated. Additionally, "ethereal places" like the Scottish Highlands, Faroe Islands, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and Uyuni Salt Flat are becoming popular destinations.

Food Trends

Food trends for 2026 include a renewed interest in cabbage-based recipes. Searches for bok choy, cabbage dumplings, golumpki soup, cabbage alfredo, and fermented cabbage have seen a rise. The motto for 2026 seems to be "Live, laugh, leaf."

Gummies are also expected to influence beauty aesthetics, with health-boosting varieties like probiotic gummies gaining popularity.

The Growing Demographic: Men

The report also highlights the growing demographic of men on Pinterest, with interests ranging from fishing and pickles to mountains. This indicates a broader appeal of the platform beyond traditional demographics.

As we look ahead to 2026, it's clear that the trends will be a mix of the nostalgic and the futuristic, the practical and the whimsical. Whether it's through home decor, fashion, beauty, or travel, the coming year promises to be a vibrant and dynamic one.