Today we announced the 2026 Faire Forecast, spotlighting four retail trends set to shape the year ahead. Drawing on millions of searches from hundreds of thousands of retailers, the Forecast reveals what shoppers will be most excited to buy in 2026, paired with actionable guidance to help small businesses make more informed decisions during critical buying seasons.
At the core of this year’s Forecast is self-expression: consumers are moving beyond algorithmic sameness toward more intentional choices, using shopping to shape homes, wardrobes, and rituals that reflect their identities and values.
“In 2026, we’re seeing shoppers move beyond trend-chasing and toward choices that feel deeply personal. They’re using shopping as a way to express identity, build community, and create meaning in everyday moments. The Faire Forecast surfaces the trends behind that shift, giving independent retailers the insight they need to stock with confidence and connect with customers in more authentic ways.”
“In 2026, we’re seeing shoppers move beyond trend-chasing and toward choices that feel deeply personal. They’re using shopping as a way to express identity, build community, and create meaning in everyday moments. The Faire Forecast surfaces the trends behind that shift, giving independent retailers the insight they need to stock with confidence and connect with customers in more authentic ways.”
— Jennifer Burke, Chief Revenue Officer, Faire
— Jennifer Burke, Chief Revenue Officer, Faire
Well-Read
Books are becoming a powerful form of self-expression and connection. Consumers are building identities around what they read, turning fandom into community through book clubs and shared rituals, and extending literary escapes into the real world through styled home libraries and reading retreats.
On Faire, searches for literature are up 113%, with paperback books up 131%. Brands are leaning in with a 2,092% increase in book totes added to Faire’s catalog, while uploads of book club items are up 359% and literary products have risen 465%.
Fan Fare
With the Winter Olympics and World Cup ahead, sports are driving moments of connection as fans gather for watch parties and shared celebrations. Retailers are meeting the moment with team-inspired apparel, globally influenced snacks, and themed party supplies.
On Faire, searches for sports are up 94% and medals have climbed 154%. Uploads of rugby shirts are up 110% and athleisure is up 95%. Fans are broadening their taste horizons to explore the flavors of their favorite competitors — fusion food uploads have spiked 277%, while searches for spices and chilis are up 74% and 39%, respectively.
More is More
The design pendulum is swinging from minimal to monumental. In 2026, consumers are embracing curated chaos through bold prints, layered textures, and personality-first design, mixing patterns, materials, and eras across fashion and home.
Pattern play is in full effect, with searches on Faire for polka dots up 545%, plaid by 349%, and gingham by 302%. Statement accessories are also surging, as statement necklaces are up 86% and statement belts have jumped 1,547%.
Witching Hour
Modern magic meets mindful living as consumers turn to spirituality, ritual, and earth-based aesthetics to slow down, regain control, and create moments of calm in their everyday lives. From candlelit homes and apothecary-inspired decor to celestial accessories and scent rituals, this new wave of modern magic blends ancient practices with intentional self-care.
On Faire, searches for magic-related products are up 113%, while uploads of witchy products have climbed 218% and spellbooks have surged 652%. Manifestation product uploads are up 163%, and astrology continues to rise, with zodiac uploads up 55% and horoscope-themed pieces up 448%.
Explore these trends further here: 2026 Faire Forecast, and shop these products at your local independent retailers.