Creativeworld Trends 2026: From fine lines to full-on colour rush

Curated by Stilbüro bora.herke.palmisano, the Creativeworld Trends 2026 set the tone for the coming season with three style worlds: modern romantics, new rebels and cool classics. They merge craftsmanship, emotion and innovation into a powerful trend preview: delicate lace and botanical illustrations meet experimental materials, bold colour effects and college aesthetics. “The trends reveal just how diverse creativity has become today – a colourful keyboard of styles that swing between nostalgia, experimentation and individuality,” explains Claudia Herke of bora.herke.palmisano. As the world’s leading trade fair for the hobby, craft and arts supply industry, Creativeworld once again becomes the global stage for creative trends, products and inspiration from 6–9 February 2026 thus reaffirming its status as vital source of ideas for the retail trade.

Trends 2026: Romantic detail, radical expression, collegiate cool

1. Modern romantics: Gentle yearning, crafted by hand

Delicate, intricate and nostalgic – modern romantics is all about reviving classic handcraft techniques. Pearl embroidery, lace accessories and botanical watercolours bring poetic charm to stationery, textiles and jewellery. Personalised packaging and cut-outs carry added meaning, while brooches are making a comeback. Layers, sketches and tactile fabrics highlight the softness and quiet emotion of this style.

2. New rebels: Unrestrained creativity meets sustainability

new rebels stand for freedom, expression and conscious rule-breaking. Splashes of paint, holograms, 3D effects and the spontaneous use of techniques like dripping, spraying and modelling set the tone. Sustainable alternatives replace conventional plastic foils, while stickers, textile dyes, tufting and resin create new possibilities. Even embroidery may become subversive – when paint splatters are stitched with thread.

3. Cool classics: College style meets DIY statement

Bold lettering, striking emblems and laid-back sportiness define cool classics. This trend blends retro flair with a spirit of personalisation – through upcycling, paracord, knitting techniques and jewellery made from semi-precious stones. Handwritten typography and handmade knots turn everyday basics into stylish statements. The look invites creators to reinterpret familiar forms and create maximum impact with simple techniques.

“All three trend worlds demonstrate that DIY today is far more than a pastime – it mirrors personal tastes, styles and values,” says Herke of bora.herke.palmisano. The Creativeworld Trends 2026, staged in Hall 1.1, encourage and inspire a specifically personalised creative language by mixing techniques, colours and materials – playful, expressive or structured. There’s no doubt that handicrafts are increasingly becoming an expression of a lifestyle that values individuality, freedom and sustainability.