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The most effective trend strategies begin at a cultural level and finish on the shop floor. Better Trends Co.’s S/S26 forecasts translate big-picture shifts — from lifestyle changes to material innovation — into actionable creative direction.

Rather than chasing everything, buyers should focus on how colours, textures, silhouettes and moods intersect with their customer profile. The goal isn’t to follow trends wholesale, but to filter them through your brand DNA and merchandising plan — turning insight into intent.

In a cautious buying climate, more choice doesn’t equal better performance. A strong edit is often the difference between slow stock and strong sell-through. Trend forecasting gives buyers a framework to refine rather than overload — helping to shape:

• Category balance

• Colour stories

• Price architecture

• Clear seasonal focal points

This philosophy underpins Top Drawer’s curated show design, where a design-first edit removes noise and supports faster, smarter decision-making.

Integrate Trends Into Visual Merchandising From Day One

Trends shouldn’t live in a deck — they should live in-store. Forecasted colours, materials and narratives can be used to build cohesive windows, displays and storytelling moments that guide the customer journey.

When visual merchandising aligns with broader trend direction, stores feel intentional, current and emotionally engaging — increasing dwell time, encouraging impulse purchases and strengthening brand recognition.

Trend theory only becomes valuable when it meets reality. This is where physical trade shows remain essential.

At Top Drawer, buyers can validate forecasts by seeing, touching and comparing products across 550+ exhibitors — assessing craftsmanship, price points, lead times and commercial viability in real time. It’s where trend direction is grounded in product truth.

Trend forecasting shouldn’t sit with one buyer alone. From visual merchandisers to shop-floor teams and content creators, a shared trend language empowers better decision-making across the business.

When teams understand key colours, materials and narratives, they can recommend with confidence, merchandise with consistency and create more cohesive marketing content. With trend-led talks and practical insight from Retail Revealed Live, buyers leave Top Drawer equipped to brief their teams clearly and effectively.

Trend forecasting becomes powerful when it’s paired with smart editing and tactile product discovery. In 2026, the most successful buying strategies will be those that combine cultural insight with real-world sourcing — exactly what Top Drawer was built to deliver.