We’re almost three whole months into 2026, which means there are almost three months’ worth of music, niche internet references and most importantly, to me: fashion trends. There’s no doubt that every year has a “trending pattern” that goes absolutely viral online and in most fast fashion stores.
While it’s an arguable topic, in peak 2020, in the magical world of indie TikTok, cow print was everywhere and was that era’s “pattern.” At this time, TikTok loved the indie style, opting for bright colors, patterns that didn’t match and heavy eyeliner.
In 2023, everything was very cutesy, very demure. Bows appeared on every product and item of clothing you could think of. Fashion at that time was hyper-feminine, characterized by ruffles, lace, soft colors, and, obviously, bows if you were on the “coquette side of TikTok.”
When 2025 rolled around, polka dots made a comeback as the fashion girlies of TikTok evolved into a more classy and timeless look.
Now we are in 2026, and with it being so early in the year, it’s nearly impossible to pick up this year’s pattern trend this soon. So I, a TikTok/Pinterest-obsessed self-proclaimed “fashion girlie,” would like to share what I predict for 2026’s viral pattern.
Before doing anything, let’s take into account what fashion on TikTok and Pinterest is looking like right now. A lot of women are sticking to the previously mentioned classy look, opting for boots over a sneaker, belts ALWAYS and layering. If this style continues trending, I fully see a type of plaid or tartan trending. It’s likely what will be picking up as the year goes on due to it, like polka dots, being a timeless pattern. I can also very much see gingham being a trend as well.
There is a pattern, though, that’s sort of a wildcard that I really wish would trend. Paisley, otherwise known as the “bandana pattern.” I do believe with the rise of girls on TikTok tapping into their more whimsical side, paisley trending is a very real possibility. It’s a very popular pattern found in many thrift and antique stores, and especially since these whimsical girls are starting to shop at these places rather than fast fashion, we could see paisley appearing more this year. I very selfishly (as a whimsical girl) would not at all be mad if we brought back fun patterns like paisley, and I believe as long as it isn’t overdone, it can be a very fun addition to so many outfits. Personally, I will defend Paisley with my life! I don’t care that it’s lowkey giving grandma rug. I think it’s cute. And if it trends as I hope, hopefully you will too.
