Are you sitting comfortably, pen and notebook in hand? We're back from January’s Munich Fabric Start, and boy, do we have intel to share! Here are all the firsthand insights we picked up from the 1,100 international suppliers showcasing textiles, accessories, and finishings at the event. It’s a rock-solid trend forecast you can build your SS26 collection on, so keep reading to find out which five key trends will rule the scene!
SS26 trends you need to know
1. Human tech
Remember the Millennium futuristic chic that had us all in a chokehold back in the late '90s and early '00s? Spring/Summer 2026 is dedicated to her modern cousin, 'human tech.' This trend loves clean silhouettes, fresh colors, and futuristic-leaning details. To nail the look, you'll need buttery second-skin jersey, micro-perforated structured fabrics, hi-tech knits, skin-like textures, laser-cut polyester, and 3D fabrics that layer up to juxtapose the simple lines of the garments. Top colors are nudes, lemon, mint, light blue, and charcoal gray.
2. Maximalist rebellion chic
If it's not weird, we don't want it. At least, that's what this unorthodox fashion trend would say if it could talk. It leans into individualism and unapologetic self-expression with light wash denim, high-pile terry jersey, and technical cotton in hot reds, natural colors, and muted purples and oranges. The overall effect gives a retro feel that hints at well-loved garments stored over time. Expect bright knits, handwritten and graffiti motifs, and mixed scale checks for a little '80s/'90s flair.
3. Futuristic flora
Get your citrus color palettes out — this blossoming trend will take your garments into a futuristic floral paradise. Garments in bio linen, double jersey, printed mesh, and fine gauge silk knits will slink onto the scene in a riot of arty botanic prints, crinkled textures, and long flowing shapes. The bright, youthful palette of yellows, greens, and oranges contrasts classic garment styles to create something classic with a razor-sharp, forward-looking edge.
4. Feminine cluttercore
Fragility and strength, beauty and chaos — this decidedly soft, feminine trend will knock you sideways with its contrariness. Soft pinks, nudes, periwinkle blues, and muted natural greens meet the toughness of leather and suede, coated cotton, and metallic embroidery. Lean on Rococo references and Marie Antoinette chic with crochet, lace, and millefleurs that confound the eye and romance the senses.
5. Timeless modernity
Some trends never get old, and this is one of them. Drawing from heritage colors, textures, and silhouettes, the 'timeless modernity' trend elicits the feeling of an inherited, well-loved couture garment never saved for best. Reach for pin-tucked washed denim, multi-striped poplin, leather, heavy cotton, and striped crepe to hit that all-essential blend of 'technical meets classical.' Colors are classic red, chalky white, smart blues, buttery yellow, and sophisticated browns.
Complete the look with apparel labels
You can't serve killer looks without killer garment labels to match. Once you've finished scheming your SS26 collections, get in touch with our apparel labeling team and see just how fashion-forward a garment label can be.
We can deliver innovative labels with complementary textures, motifs, and color palettes and even knock socks off with interactive shop floor experiences using QR codes or NFC smartphone tech. Visit our Tailored Creatives project page to see just how inventive labels can be when you have the right labeling partner behind you.
Ready to get started? Our team is brimming with more than just insights from our recent trip to MFS 2025 — we’ve got decades of experience, and our vertically integrated structure means we've got the knowledge and the resources to help you dominate SS26. Contact our team and tell us what you’re thinking!
For more inspiration, browse our apparel label portfolio, see our creative collaborations, or visit the blog for more inspiration. Whatever you’re aiming for, we can get you there!
