The monthly Etsy Trend Guide is a compilation of fresh trends our experts are noticing across Etsy and the industry as a whole: what sellers are creating, what shoppers are loving, and what’s hot right now in the wider market. We gathered data, crunched the numbers, and tapped a few of our favorite tastemakers for insights. The result? This curated Etsy shopping guide to help you discover the next big things.
There’s no season like summer for experimenting with your personal style. Whether you’re planning a big trip (and hoping to crib style cues and fashion inspiration from your destination of choice) or just looking forward to debuting some new warm-weather looks at backyard barbecues and potluck picnics closer to home, there are plenty of fun summer fashion and beauty trends headed your way.
As Etsy’s resident trend expert, I’m always searching for up-and-coming designers and emerging trends from among the more than 1.7 million creative sellers* and millions of unique items on Etsy. Today, I’m here to share the top five summer style trends on my radar right now (and one big accessory prediction for 2018). From sparkly, outer space-inspired beauty to an understated take on iconic silhouettes from the ’80s, we think you’re going to like what you see.
And if you don’t find the precise pants or sculptural straw hat on our list to make your summer wardrobe complete, not to worry. There’s someone on Etsy who shares your creative vision—or will take a custom order request to make your style wish come true.
Read on to discover the trends.
Clockwise from top left: Leather fanny pack by Awl Snap, $89; striped high-cut bathing suit by Tiara Richar Swimwear, $95; leather visor by Right Tribe, $78; stirrup pants from Wear It Well Vintage, $38
Minimalist ‘80s
Yes, you read that right. Our favorite decade for over-the-top everything is being reinvented in an understated palette and a grown-up aesthetic. Today’s take is more effortless and tomboy-inspired than the typical ‘80s revival—less neoprene and neon, more muted, neutral hues and natural materials—but with many of the familiar silhouettes of the era.
Instead of colorful, paint-splattered jeans, Etsy artists are hand-painting vintage denim in paler shades. Boxy culottes—the last big ‘80s pants craze—are stepping aside to make way for stirrup pants, which feel practically tailor-made for a streamlined modern wardrobe. Even the fanny pack is back, only now it’s in smooth, flat leather and geometric shapes. In fact, fanny packs (sometimes rebranded as hip bags or waist bags) were among the top 20 most-searched accessories this month on Etsy.
Perhaps no setting is a more natural stage for this reconceived ‘80s style than the beach. It’s the perfect place to break out your updated, undyed leather visor and sporty, Baywatch-ready one-piece. (Think swimwear you can actually swim—or, yes, run—in.) Searches for one-piece bathing suits on Etsy rose nearly 140 percent from 2015–2016, and one-pieces continue to make big popularity gains over bikinis this year.
Of course, whatever ‘80s style speaks to you most, you can likely find an original example for sale on Etsy, where there are more than 300,000 vintage ‘80s items to shop.
Clockwise from top left: Fan earrings by Toucan Bleu, $68; frayed denim top with ruffles by Eliza Faulkner Designs, $150; linen ruffle necklace by Pretties By Meg, $23
Redefined ruffles
Some years, everyone’s talking about hemlines. In others, it’s all about prints. For 2017, we believe the textile detail to watch is the ruffle. But not just any ruffle; these are not the froufrou flounces of your childhood Easter dress or the dusty bed skirt in grandma’s guest room. This is a new ruffle, a contemporary ruffle, a—dare we say?—sophisticated ruffle.
Here’s what makes it work: It’s bold. It’s modern. It’s got volume. And it’s suddenly turning up everywhere. (Just not everywhere at once.) Placement is key: You might find ruffles finishing the sleeve of an artfully distressed top, hugging the neckline of an off-the-shoulder romper, or cascading asymmetrically down one side of a wrap dress or maxi. Even in its softer, more feminine iterations, today’s ruffle is scaled-up and confident—no little-girl gathers here.
And they’re not just in your closet. Ruffles are equally at home in the world of interiors, too. Dreamy ruffled linen bedding (in solid colors, not patterns), is one way to keep things fresh. Whatever the category, the look is more versatile than you might think: Ruffles can read as romantic and retro, free-spirited and bohemian, or architectural and avant-garde, according to your personal style. The one thing that’s certain is that they’re on the rise. Searches for ruffles on Etsy this March increased by 50 percent compared to March 2016.
Clockwise from top left: Black parasisal straw hat by Geaux Chapeaux Hats, $245; flat-brim hat by Ricucci Millinery, $162; straw fascinator by Justine Hats, $140; natural straw Pagoda hat by Ignatius Hats, $165
The new straw hat
Lightweight, breathable straw hats have been a hot-weather staple for centuries—since long before crisp, flat-topped boaters and the fedora-like Panama hat attained icon status in the early 20th century. But modern milliners aren’t merely recreating these classic styles to the letter—they’re breaking the mold with shapes their creative forebears might never have imagined, for customers with eclectic, contemporary tastes.
We’ve already seen the return of the floppy, wide-brimmed sun hat. Now we’re ready for something a little more experimental. Designers on Etsy are turning out toppers with twisting, Möbius-like brims, offbeat details like grommets and lacing, and unconventional proportions that draw the eye up instead of out. And they’re doing it all with the same time-honored techniques and careful handwork that have defined quality hatmaking since the beginning.
Even if you prefer a traditional shape, there’s something new for you this year: color. More and more, navy and black straw hats are appearing on the scene, and they look just as chic as natural straw with floaty dresses and summer suits—bathing or otherwise. You can even go fully custom, thanks to bespoke hat makers on Etsy, like New York City-based June Gumbel of Geaux Chapeaux Hats, who are keeping made-to-order millinery alive for a new generation to discover.
Clockwise from top left: Pewter glitter makeup by Orglamix, $5; star eye shadow tattoos by Tattoo Crush, $10; constellation nail decals by Jsfrnnailart, $10; twinkle-effect eye shadow by Orglamix, $12
Celestial beauty
There’s something innately appealing about the all-things-celestial trend that’s been spreading across the jewelry, apparel, and home categories in recent seasons. After all, what’s more universal than, well, the universe? And the next big breakthrough area for this astro-inspired aesthetic is crystal-clear: the beauty realm. (Think of it as cosmic cosmetics.) The shimmery, glimmery style works on a lot of levels—it attracts festival goers, sci-fi fans, and anyone who’s ever had her aura photographed.
To get the look, there’s no better place to shop than Etsy. Enter the search term “galaxy makeup” on the site and you’ll find nearly 1,000 results. Obsessed with moon phases? Maybe an opalescent eye shadow will pull you in. (Eye makeup is one of the fastest-growing sections within makeup and cosmetics on Etsy; for January through March 2017, demand saw a nearly triple-digit increase compared to the same time period in 2016). More into zodiac signs? Constellation nail decals should do the trick. From glitter lipstick to cheek shimmer and even star freckles, a new take on the freckle tattoo trend, there’s something on Etsy to make your eyes—or any other part of your face—light up.
Clockwise from top left: 3-in-1 leather backpack by Art and Jill, $425; linen kimono jacket by Linen Fox, $60; picnic/beach blanket by Sewn Natural, $180
Summer style that won’t fade
Today’s shopper wants more than just a good-looking item: She wants to purchase handmade products that hold real meaning; adaptable objects that suit more than one purpose; and foundational pieces that last far longer than fast fashion. In short, she wants a return on her summer-style investment. Whether it’s multi-functional furniture for her home or a versatile layering piece for her wardrobe, products that can be used year-round—and for years to come—are among the biggest cross-category trends for 2017.
Picture a bag you can carry three different ways, swimwear that doubles as a bodysuit when paired with pants, or a floaty kimono jacket that goes from poolside to date night without missing a beat. And don’t be afraid to use your imagination: A design doesn’t have to be marketed as multi-functional to have potential beyond its primary role.
All of these items are staples that will last not only through the season, but throughout the year. Putting your money toward timeless, seasonless, functional items that are made with care and quality by independent designers is always on-trend. We think this summer it will be bigger than ever.
Clockwise from left: Tassel choker by Reason To Be Pretty, $85; brass moon-phase choker by Avilla Jewelry, $185; brass and quartz choker by ABAjewels, $90
2018 Prediction: Choker revamp
Starting in 2016 and continuing this year, we’ve seen a huge resurgence of ’90s influences, from slime to scrunchies to chokers (one of the most popular jewelry styles of the year). Whether shoppers were tapping into their ‘90s goth-punk girl crushes on Courtney Love or going sportier, à la No Doubt-era Gwen Stefani, shoppers on Etsy searched the term “choker” more than 23,000 times during the month of March.
My prediction for 2018 is that the choker isn’t going anywhere—but it is undergoing a revamp, from the minimalist, slim chokers of the last few years to more playful statement pieces. We’re already starting to see a few examples of this evolution on Etsy: The newest styles incorporate whimsical elements like dangling quartz stones, fringe, or medallion details. Some styles even offer the option to tie the loose ends. It’s a great way to revisit the trend—while putting your own distinctive spin on it.
52 comments
Kashuen Collectibles from Kashuen said 3 years ago
I love those hats. Thanks for sharing.
Flair Nouri from FlairPaintings said 3 years ago
lovely hats!!!
renee and gerardo from GTDesigns said 3 years ago
swanky fab styles!! those chokers are gorgeous!! tfs!!
TropicalGarden from TropicalGarden said 3 years ago
Beautiful selections! I like the black parasisal straw hat and leather visor. Thanks for sharing!
Mélanie Ruiz from MintPantari said 3 years ago
Nice selection ! Thanks !
Renee from RandMhandmade said 3 years ago
So many nice items!!
Heidi Bondarenko from thecleverclove said 3 years ago
I love the straw hats ... feel so Audrey Hepburn! I hope the 80s massive hair comes back ... my afro would finally be in style! :)
Cathy from msbijouxbeads said 3 years ago
Love the hats! Galaxy makeup would be fun to wear to the beach! Fun article, thanks
Relly from RelsFindsNapaValley said 3 years ago
I love the summer collections featured here... especially the straw hats.
Amanda from ForestaVintage said 3 years ago
Chokers and Fringe!🙌
Sonja from LapCatYarnCo said 3 years ago
That constellation blanket is so dreamy! I love the timeless classic "trend".
moirastcharles from LavienroseM said 3 years ago
J' jadore tous les bijoux qu'on voit plus haut; ponpons et géométrie😊
Susan from GeorgianBayTreasures said 3 years ago
Great article, thank you! Love the hats and beach blanket! Etsy is an endless hub of creativity!
Ellie from FindCraftyPatterns said 3 years ago
As I list my retro patterns, I always take a moment to reinvent the design with current trends ... colours, fabrics, embellishment... a fun,creative pastime. Thanks for the new list to work with.
Karina Soboleva from SobolevaArt said 3 years ago
Cool things! Thanks for the selection!
Valerie from SnitkoStudio said 3 years ago
Thank you!
Michele from MichelesAManoDesigns said 3 years ago
Thank you for sharing! Excited about the hats 😊 love wearing them.... From cowboy to baseball caps, so fun to wear and look good...(oh yea, and help keep curls tame on humid days! Lol! Love the hard here!!!
Donna McLaughlin from DonnaRuthsBoutique said 3 years ago
Love the chokers! Must make some!
Cheri Tracy from orglamix said 3 years ago
Thank you for the feature + including Orglamix in The Freshest Summer Styles for 2017. We're honored! xox
Clemmie Sheffield from ClemmieVs said 3 years ago
Love the 80's!
Robin Fosdyck said 3 years ago
So much cute stuff. Wish I was a millionaire I would buy one of each!
Nathalie from LaChapeliereTetue said 3 years ago
Long live the hats and thank you for sharing!
foofoogal54 from GracefulVtgClothing said 3 years ago
Oh my stars. The fascinator hat is fabulous. Loving the chokers also.
Robin Petro said 3 years ago
I don't understand the instruction on the choker options to "tie the loose ends." What does that mean?
Sue Taylor-Davidson from gracedmoments said 3 years ago
Great article! Thank you for these timely tips!
cindylouchak1 said 3 years ago
The hats are a real show piece.The brass and quarts choker is breathtaking.Just love to shop Etsy.
Even Howard from HouseintheMoon said 3 years ago
Yes wonderful hats! Looking forward to the longer days of summer~
Margret Appe said 3 years ago
Hats
Walter from walmatwien said 3 years ago
Love the straw hat 😃👍
Katyooshjewelry jewelry from Kattyoosh said 3 years ago
Great. Thank you for sharing
Rachel Bingaman from BingArt said 3 years ago
Great choices! Love the hats :)
Patricia Maggs from vintageretrojewels said 3 years ago
British fashion is soooooooooooooooo different! TG
sarantos from SARANTOS said 3 years ago
I have been working on chokers for years. They are fitting this "prediction" perfectly. :)
Edna from AddaSplashofColour said 3 years ago
Nice collection! I like the ruffled earrings.
Susan Wagner from beachbabyblues said 3 years ago
Oh ~ those HATS tho !! 🙌🏻 The chokers are sweet too !
Shawn Metcalf said 3 years ago
Scrunchies and single strap chokers are a fashion trend that should NEVER be repeated! Those open neck chokers and the straw hats however are fab!
Teerasak Borkam from TribalAndHarem said 3 years ago
Beautiful and Cute :))))
Valerie from VintageVallure said 3 years ago
The return of the 80s, ruffles, and daring chokers...am I dreaming? If only every subway train conductor in New York would just start playing Prince, Michael and David Bowie on our commute to work.
Art and Jill from ARTandJILL said 3 years ago
awesome! thanks for featuring us!
Marina Whelan Nadia Bremner from Bravojewelry said 3 years ago
Good to know. Thanks for great ideas!
MarzycardsUK from MarzycardsUK said 3 years ago
Thanks for sharing! Fun Finds!
nicorisan from JapaneseCraftsNicori said 3 years ago
Beautiful
Autumn Anderson from WiddershinsOnEtsy said 3 years ago
any fragrance trends spotted out there????
Earth and Sky Alchemy Christopher and Amy from EarthandSkyAlchemy said 3 years ago
My favorite trend is celestial beauty! Lovely finds and informative article, thanks!
Katrina Dzerkale from Dominna said 3 years ago
the nail stickers <3
emaxtees from EmaxTees said 3 years ago
In love with the fashionable hats, great
Amy Gunderson from amysfunkyfibers said 3 years ago
love thefresh and simple designs- the hats are adorable!
Sharon from YearsAfter said 3 years ago
Love the flat brimmed hat and the whole 80's revival theme. It was a great fun decade!
Rachel Stefan from BeadAndBarJewellery said 3 years ago
I love the ruffle style. I have been making some ruffle pieces for myself and I am happy to see that I am "on trend" with them!
FuchsiaMoon from TheFuchsiaMoon said 3 years ago
Fabulous finds, featured items and forward facing forecast. Thank you Dayna!
Diana Deluxe from DianaDeluxe said 3 years ago
Love straw hats and those jewelry pieces are so cute and pretty!
Beaver Brown Burke from Bailoutabarista said 3 years ago
I love this shopping guide. I adore the hats and I love the linen jacket. I Can.t wait to see what else you post.