The aesthetics that will define 2026 according to Pinterest Is Gen Z ready to leave matcha behind?
There are algorithms that were born long before TikTok and AI; there are platforms that resist digital changes with more stubbornness than most. Pinterest, the visual discovery social media loved equally by Millennials and Gen Z, has recently published its very own predictions for 2026. The list, which grows more specific and in-depth every year, lists a bunch of quite diverse aesthetics this year, from the search for peace and calm to the return of old hobbies, from the arrival of modern trends to the discovery of new cores linked to space exploration.
Here are the aesthetic trends that will define 2026 according to Pinterest Predicts.
Gimme Gummy
According to the latest research by Pinterest users and the success of ASMR related to toys, the platform predicts that next year consumers will particularly appreciate rubber accessories. From flexible phone cases to gummy supplements, from jewelry to 3D nail art, this will be the definitive texture of 2026; the company has observed surges in searches for jelly blush (130%), Japanese bean yokan paste (60%), and the gummy bear aesthetic (50%).
Glamoratti
We had already noticed that the eighties were returning thanks to the latest Saint Laurent collections and the subsequent boom in padded shoulders and bold colors. But in 2026, according to Pinterest, the aesthetic will become even more attractive, with tailored suits becoming even sharper, earrings even bigger, and collars even higher. Minimalism, this time, will have to stay on the bench. Pinterest searches recorded an increase in clicks for thick belts (65%), baggy suits (90%), and 80s luxury (225%).
Poetcore
The Dark Academia aesthetic is not ready to leave our timeline, although in 2026 it will have a new name. The world of literature will undergo a new rebranding, influenced by new authorial figures but also by trends such as turtleneck sweaters, ultra-vintage clothing, fountain pens, and messenger bags. Pinterest, in recent months, has also observed increases in searches for capes (65%), satchel bags (85%), and poetcore (75%).
Neodeco
1970s era interiors by designer Willy Rizzo
— lusso (@luusssso) May 28, 2025
We need to bring this vibe back asap pic.twitter.com/7PocDiLtf9
In the design sector, Art Deco will continue to play a central role, albeit infused with a fresh, more futuristic breeze. According to Pinterest, in 2026 consumers will gravitate back toward chevron patterns, fan arches, and other geometric shapes, especially in copper or bronze. There has been a boom in searches for pendant lamps (40%), red marble bathrooms (80%), and vintage bar carts (100%).
Scent Stacking
@luvyute my absolute favourite combo rn @SALT & STONE @L'Occitane En Provence @FUGAZZI Fragrances #perfumetok #scentlayering #whatismelllike #nicheperfume #vanillagirl original sound - WildCraftedStudio
2025 was a golden year for the fragrance industry - as also highlighted by the nss Fashion Alphabet created in collaboration with Lefty. In 2026, the perfume industry will undergo further growth boosted by the scent stacking trend. Pinterest has recorded a true boom in searches for niche perfume collections (500%) as well as for signature scents (45%) and scent combinations (125%).
Brooched
For Pinterest, the future of menswear is all in the details. Especially in brooches, which will be the protagonists of next year. The platform has recorded an interesting leap in clicks for maximalist accessories (105%), particularly for brooches for men's suits (90%), and for outfits incorporating family heirloom jewelry (45%).
FunHaus
Poetcore and family brooches aside, next year fun will also play a central role in consumer choices. Pinterest states that circus-style home décor will have a moment in the spotlight, with stripes and sculptural silhouettes appearing in homes around the world. Striped ceilings (40%) will be very popular, along with circus-style interiors (130%) and circus art (35%). Don't be alarmed, therefore, if in 2026 one of your friends decides to take up the trapeze.
Laced Up
Alessandro Michele's first collections for Valentino have anticipated the power that lace will have in 2026. Pinterest highlights that the elegance of this texture will fill our wardrobes, contributing to a romantic balance with sportier items. On the platform, there is a boom in searches for any lace item: nails (215%), belts (55%), bandanas (150%), doilies (105%), and make-up (120%).
Pen Pals
@martina_calvi_ Crying sobbing #snailmail #penpal We mentioned that hobbies of the past would return, and here we are: the handwritten word is making a comeback. Letters - real ones, not emails - are regaining their charm, thanks especially to the success of stationery on TikTok. Pinterest has detected an increase in searches for cute stamps (105%), pen pals (35%), handwritten letters (45%), and gifts sent via traditional mail (snail mail, 110%).
Vamp Romantic
Vampires are returning, at least to our beauty cases. In 2026, Millennials and Gen Z will rediscover a love for dark aesthetics, with a particular focus on black nails, goth hairstyles, and smokey eyes. Making its debut among Pinterest trends is the term "vampire haircut" (40%), alongside great classics like dark romantic make-up (160%), vampire beauty (90%), and goth coffin nails (180%).
Cool Blue
Pantone said that white will be the color of 2026, but Pinterest thinks differently. According to user searches, the platform is seeing particular attention paid to cool blues and sub-zero temperatures that, apparently, some people actually enjoy. Searches are growing for the glacier aesthetic (35%), blue drinks (55%), and frosted make-up (150%).
Afro Decor
Fortunately, aesthetics from warmer climates will also have a space of their own in 2026. In the world of interior design, there has been a boom in searches for motifs and silhouettes inspired by African culture, particularly Nigerian textile art, Ethiopian tapestries, and furnishing elements made of natural fibers. Clicks are growing for afro home decor (220%), adire fabrics (130%), and Ethiopian art (50%).
Mystic Outlands
@aclotheshorse meet me in the enchanted woods #darkcottagecore #ireland #irishwolfhound #darkfantasy son original - Phantomwise
Gorpcore takes on a new form in 2026, one that is more mystical and spiritual. Among the favorite travels of old and new generations, according to Pinterest, a special place will be found for ancient ruins, places immersed in nature, enchanted forests, and other destinations linked to magic. There is a boom in online searches for Bolivia (70%), bamboo forests (50%), the Faroe Islands (95%), and the Scottish Highlands (465%).
Glitchy Glam
@erinparsonsmakeup I love this makeup @Hung Vanngo Beauty @MOB Beauty @Burberry @Neen @Westman-Atelier moon girl - Temachii
After years and years of minimalism, make-up and clothing will return to appreciating glitz and glamour. According to Pinterest, Gen Z and Millennials will start loving multi-colored manicures again, try two-toned lipstick, and pick up their rainbow eyeshadows once more. There is a boom in searches for eccentric (100%) or strange (115%) make-up, asymmetrical haircuts (85%), and avant-garde beauty tutorials (270%).
Khaki Coded
Even though maximalism will return to our lives, our wardrobes, and our beauty cases, natural palettes - particularly khaki - will continue to play an important role in 2026. This is according to Pinterest, which observed that bermuda shorts and multi-pocket trousers (essentially useful attire for a trip to the desert) continue to garner clicks. Searches are rising for utility shirts (45%), the paleontologist aesthetic (35%), and field jackets (65%).
Cabbage Crush
Every year has its trend-food. There was avocado, then matcha, and now cabbage. According to Pinterest, after the boom in cauliflower recipes, a new star will arrive in the kitchen, anticipated by Gen Z's passion for fermented foods like kimchi. Cabbage will also influence table aesthetics, as well as inspire many dishes such as golumpki soup (95%), cabbage dumplings (110%), or stir-fried bok choy (35%).
Extra Celestial
Scientific space exploration is advancing, influencing aesthetics and trends on Earth. In 2026, holographics will return to light up our closets - welcome back, Tumblr - along with shades inspired by the moon and the alien world. Users on Pinterest are searching for Alien core aesthetics (+80%), opalescent (115%), futuristic trucks (60%), and alien-inspired make-up (140%).
Wilderkind
2026 will be the Year of the Horse according to the Chinese calendar, yet there are other species that will influence fashion aesthetics and trends. From the patterns covering fawn coats to the fiery color of foxes, from the strange shapes found in forest flora to insect-inspired jewelry, there is something for everyone - provided you are a biology enthusiast. There is a boom in searches for animal-inspired outfits (90%), the deer aesthetic (55%), and dragonfly nails (145%).
Throwback Kid
@rylie_martin07 i miss my future children #fyp #foryou #thrift #thrifting #babies #babyclothes #carhartt #vintage #vintagebabyclothes #overalls #vans #nike #jordan #foryoupage @Luke original sound - noahksticks
In 2026, vintage will also reach children. Parents will start buying second-hand outfits for their little ones, with references to the '60s, '70s, and '90s bringing back the fashions of those times. There is a boom in searches for upcycled baby clothes (95%), vintage kids fashion (35%), nostalgia toys (225%), and 1970s and 2000s childhood toys (125%).
Darecations
The sports sphere could not be left out of the Pinterest Predicts 2026 report. With Milano Cortina on the horizon, it seems that extreme activities are attracting the attention of the most dedicated sports enthusiasts. The platform has recorded growth in searches for river rafting (35%), adventure tourism (75%), adrenaline aesthetics (50%), and sports car events (85%).
Opera Aesthetic
@kingaslib having private box seat tickets just add another touch of magic into an opera night #opera#theatre#mozart#budapest#darkacademia Les Secrets de la Soirée - Tom Kristiaan
Appearing in the Pinterest Predicts 2026 report as last but not least is the aesthetic linked to the world of the Opera. The interiors of theaters, with red curtains and cabaret vibes, will inspire fashion and design in the coming year, as Gen Z and Millennials discover a new passion for vintage opulence. After all, we are in the '20s once again. There is a boom in searches for masquerade (95%), ceiling drapes (40%), and Opera outfits (55%).
