The Trend Pattern

When we attended Printsource 2025 in New York City this January, many clients asked us what trends we’re seeing in the market. As surface pattern designers, trend research is part of the job, but it made us realize that not everyone knows how to spot a trend or why a trend becomes popular. Today, we’ll dive into how trends emerge and evolve.

Trends can be inspired by various sources, often emerging from the things and places around us, such as museums, art galleries, vintage artwork, music, movies, architecture, and political, social, or cultural movements. When these influences spark a new creative style or imagery that resonates with many people, a new trend is born. However, for something to truly be considered a trend, it must be supported by consumer behavior, such as increased sales.

Trends generally follow a recognizable pattern through the market. They often start in high fashion, where an exaggerated version of the trend is first showcased on a model walking down the runway. Celebrities, influencers, and fashion editors then adopt and share the trend, leading to increased visibility and exposure. As the trend gains traction, mainstream apparel companies incorporate it into their designs and collections, making it more accessible to the general public.

Once a trend takes off in fashion, it trickles down into home décor and interior design. The motifs and styles associated with the trend begin appearing in products like bedding, lamps, wallpaper, tea towels, mugs, and dishes. Both hard and soft home goods experience a surge in trend-inspired products.

From there, the trend spreads to crafting, fabric, gift, and novelty products. It becomes visible on items like wrapping paper, notebooks, calendars, crafting supplies, and fabric.

With the rise of social media, trends now move more rapidly across categories than ever before. Ideas can go viral as influencers share posts, challenges, hashtags, and memes, further accelerating the trend cycle.

Understanding the process of trend evolution can help surface pattern designers and others in the creative industry stay ahead of the curve and spot emerging trends before they go mainstream. Trends are a powerful reflection of the times we live in, and by recognizing their patterns, we can better predict and respond to the ever-changing market.