Issuu

GIF TS & D EC O RA TIVE A C CESSO RIES

2027

GIFT BOOK Consumer research survey 40+ trend reports OCT OBE R 2026 | GI FT SANDDE C.COM

NEW: Display trends!

- EST. 1917 OCTOBER 2026 - VOL. 127, NO. 9 -

IN THIS ISSUE departments PA G E 1 0

Editor's Letter

PA G E 1 3

Consumer Data Report

PA G E 4 0

Display Trends

PA G E 1 2 8

Market Calendar

2027 Gift Bo Consume ok r Survey

trend reports

HOME

FASH ION

Page 42

Page 52

Page 62

Page 72

Page 44

Page 54

Page 64

Page 74

Page 46

Page 56

Page 66

Page 48

Page 58

Page 68

Page 50

Page 60

Page 70

Wall Art

Spring & Summer Décor

Garden Décor

Wind Chimes

Casual Dining & Outdoor Entertaining

Lakeside Living

Outdoor Home Décor

Accent Rugs

Decorative Accessories

Solar Lighting

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Fashion Jewelry

Resort Wear

Spec-tacular Eyewear

Artisan-Made Jewelry

Cozy Footwear

CAN DL E S

Fragrancers & Diffusers

Warmers & Melts

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Total Home & Gift Market JANUARY 6—12, 2027 TEMPS JANUARY 6—9

trend reports

BATH & BODY

STATION E RY

Page 76

Page 82

Page 90

Page 78

Page 84

Page 92

Page 80

Page 86

Self-Care with CBD

Personal Fragrance

Lotions & Skincare

Everyday Greetings

G OU RM E T

Chocolates & Treats

Gift Wrap

Delectable Dips, Sauces & Rubs

Page 94

Sassy Sentiments

Gourmet at Home

Page 88

Party Supplies

GIFTABLES

114

H OL IDAY

122

Page 96

Page 104

Page 114

Page 122

Page 98

Page 106

Page 116

Page 124

Page 108

Page 118

Page 126

Page 110

Page 120

Creative Gifts

Focusing on Wellness

Page 100 Pet Gifts

Page 102

Inspirational Gifts

Message Gifts

Self-Expression

Giftable Drinkware

Framed Moments

Page 112

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Holiday Tabletop

Christmas Ornaments

Holiday Home Décor

Christmas Decorations

Plush Toys

Baby Gifting

Baby Keepsakes

KIDS

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For Family

Lenise Willis 336.605.3817 | lwillis@giftsanddec.com

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Amanda Erd 773.570.4187 | aerd@bridgetowermedia.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Pamela Brill, Linda Cahan, Anne-Marie Earl

For Him

SENIOR GROUP PUBLISHER, EVP MEDIA MANAGING DIRECTOR OF HOME FURNISHINGS DIVISION ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, MIDWEST AND CANADA

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For Her

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EDITOR’S LETTER

ELEVATE YOUR REACH. EXPAND YOUR NETWORK. With BTM Business Connect, you can seamlessly submit announcements tailored to your needs, ensuring timely publication in both our online and print editions.

SUBMIT YOUR ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY

Fact Checking Most of us gift industry professionals have a sense of what’s trending with consumers. Checking product labels in stores to see who made them — and noticing what shoppers are buying — comes with the job. Call them occupational hazards; can we even call shopping a hobby anymore? But anticipating consumers' desires and behaviors in time to produce or order the right items can be difficult. While each of you assuredly has a natural intuition for what will sell with your customers, having a bit of data to inform your choices can give more concrete answers. That’s why each year we conduct our annual Gift Book Consumer Survey, to help drive production and purchasing decisions in the industry. Keeping your ear to the ground is great, but having cold, hard facts to backup your decisions is even better. What stands out to me the most this year is that consumers are looking for personalized yet functional pieces first and foremost. Asked what they look for in a gift generally, more than half of surveyed shoppers rank “personalized” as the most important attribute. The takeaway for assortment planning: items that pair function with a personalization option — monogramming, custom colors, add-a-name — are better positioned than décor-only or gimmick-first pieces. From trucker hats stitched with local landmarks to quirky plush charms for backpacks and key rings, giftables, fashion accessories and home accents that match the personality of the wearer or owner will continue to reign supreme. If you find yourself stuck on what to stock for 2027, just remember that most shoppers seem to be stuck on themselves. “Keeping your ear to Of course, retailers can’t rely on that message the ground is great, but alone. Other trends to tap into include functional having cold, hard facts to products that help customers achieve their goals, backup your decisions is particularly better sleep and stress reduction, and even better.” gifts with a fragrance. Personal perfumes, highend laundry detergent, luxury hand soaps and jar candles with scents that make consumers feel something continue to dominate the market. Gourmand notes, especially those that mimic sweet treats, will remain popular for both home and personal fragrance, and more traditional floral notes are seeing an uptick in popularity, especially as Victorian-era luxury remains a hot influence. Besides stocking the right products, retailers should also pay attention to timing for their assortments. The holiday shopping season continues to begin earlier and earlier. According to the survey, the post-Thanksgiving weekend remains the single biggest kickoff point, with 36 percent of respondents saying it’s when they start shopping for Christmas, but a combined 43 percent of shoppers say they begin before Black Friday — 22 percent start right after Halloween, 14 percent shop for Christmas year-round and 7 percent start after Labor Day. Only 11 percent wait until December. For retailers, that’s a case for having holiday product on the floor well ahead of the traditional Black Friday push, not after it.

Lenise Willis Charges apply for these announcements and can be processed via our online submission form.

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Total Number of Copies

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Donna Bischoff

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7/1/2026

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No. Copies of Single Issue

During Preceding 12 Months

Published Nearest to Filing Date

20,316

20,437

16,537

16,643

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Donna Bischoff 1633 New Garden Road #163 Greensboro, NC 27410

Editor

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1633 New Garden Road #163 Greensboro, NC 27410

Publisher

10/1/2026 $69.00

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Gifts and Decorative Accessories

15.

3. Filing Date

[Sum of 15b. (1), (2), (3), and (4)] (1) Outside County Nonrequested Copies as stated on PS Form 354

(Name and complete mailing address)

16,542

16,648

4,248

2,445

Sample Copies, Requests Over 3 years old, Requests induced by a

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Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)

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100 N Pacific Coast Hwy. Ste 1725, El Segundo, CA 90245

BridgeTower OPCo, LLC (OPCo)

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Cerberus Business Finance Agency, LLC

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Total Requested and Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies (line 16a)

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915

1,000

5,177

3,445

21,719

20,093

164

344

21,883

20,437

76.2%

82.9%

Average No. Copies Each Issue

No. Copies of Single Issue

During Preceding 12 Months

Published Nearest to Filing Date

16,542

16,648

21,719

20,093

76.2%

82.9%

I certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are legitmate requests or paid copies.

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership Publication of the Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication is required and will be printed in the

Oct-25

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Donna Bischoff

Sep 28, 2026

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CONSUMER DATA

2027 GIFT BOOK

Consumer Survey Growing sales with data-backed inventory decisions. by GDA Staff

As has been the tradition for the last decade-plus, GDA’s annual Gift Book Consumer Survey once again offers independent retailers a data-backed headstart on the coming year's buying decisions. This year’s data report was derived from an in-house survey and includes insights into both category trends and the values shaping purchase decisions. Spanning candles and home fragrance, tabletop and décor, holiday, toys and beauty products, here are the numbers worth building a plan around. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, home fragrance is dominating the gift and décor industry. Nearly eight in 10 respondents say they're likely to buy candles in the next 12 months, and jar candles remain the runaway favorite format, at 96 percent, followed by statement candles that double as décor (44 percent). When it comes to what actually drives a sale, fragrance (97 percent) dominates over function (30 percent) — a reminder that scent story and packaging should lead the merchandising, not just the vessel. The preferred home décor style remains casual comfort, as in past years, reﬂecting consumers’ desire to create safe

and comforting spaces through both scent and décor. Threequarters of shoppers (78 percent) describe their decorating style as "casual comfort," well ahead of modern/urban chic (27 percent) or elegant/formal (17 percent). Among the 79 percent of shoppers planning Christmas purchases, ornaments are the top category at 61 percent, and traditional or nostalgic styling (58 percent) beats out neon/ bright (15 percent) and muted/neutral (9 percent) by a wide margin — a useful signal for retailers weighing how far to lean into newer aesthetic trends versus safe bets. Together, these ﬁndings can help you form a straightforward assortment strategy for the year ahead. Explore the full data — broken out by generation, gender and other demographics — throughout the next several pages. Editor’s note: Introduction was written with the help of an AIpowered tool, which pulled out key ﬁndings from the original data report and offered a brief analysis. All copy and data points were reviewed, edited and fact-checked by a member of the GDA staff.

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CONSUMER DATA – HOME

HOME How consumers describe their home decorating style or styles 2026

2025

CASUAL COMFORT

78%

74%

MODERN/URBAN CHIC

27%

35%

VINTAGE VIBES

23%

21%

RUSTIC/COTTAGECORE

18%

19%

COUNTRY

18%

ELEGANT/FORMAL

17%

19%

COASTAL

15%

17%

BOHEMIAN

14%

16%

GRANDMILLENNIAL

By Generation

Gen Z

Millennials

Gen X

Baby Boomers

CASUAL COMFORT

83%

77%

74%

80%

MODERN/URBAN CHIC

42%

41%

22%

13%

VINTAGE VIBES

31%

29%

18%

RUSTIC/COTTAGECORE

30%

21%

16%

12%

COUNTRY

17%

18%

19%

17%

ELEGANT/FORMAL

25%

17%

COASTAL

19%

17%

16%

BOHEMIAN

16%

22%

10%

GRANDMILLENNIAL

DECORATIVE ACCENTS are the most popular home furnishings category consumers plan to purchase over the next year, followed by

AREA RUGS AND WELCOME MATS.

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CONSUMER DATA – HOME

Home décor products consumers plan to buy in the next 12 months By Generation

69%

47%

61%

Decorative accents

47%

Lamps or lighting fixtures

61%

35%

47%

28% 66%

38%

58%

Wall art

46%

Outdoor décor

44%

41%

29%

35% 56%

30% Tableware/ serveware/ centerpieces

57%

Area rugs and/ or welcome mats

50%

34% 24%

53%

16%

51%

Gen Z

52%

Decorative pillows/throws

Millennials

47%

Gen X

39%

Baby Boomers

Kitchenware products consumers plan to buy in the next 12 months By Generation

Gen Z

Millennials

Gen X

Baby Boomers

DINNERWARE

52%

50%

32%

24%

GLASSWARE

48%

43%

34%

23%

FLATWARE

34%

41%

31%

21%

SERVEWARE

34%

30%

26%

15%

BARWARE

27%

23%

18%

12%

OUTDOOR DINING SETS AND ACCESSORIES

25%

30%

22%

15%

Types of dinnerware consumers plan to buy 91%

Casual dinnerware for indoor use

44%

Seasonal dinnerware for holidays or special occasions

36%

Casual dinnerware for outdoor use Formal dinnerware/fine china

23%

Strategic Insights, 2026 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

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CONSUMER DATA – FASHION

Fashion Types of jewelry consumers plan to buy in the next 12 months 47%

Earrings

50% 41%

Necklaces

24% 15%

Personalized

46% 37%

Bracelets

26%

Hair accessories

Pins/brooches

38%

19% 10% 13%

2026 2025

34%

Rings

34%

Preferred material type for jewelry 68%

Sterling silver/white gold

50%

Yellow gold

41%

Gemstones

32%

Rose gold

21%

Mixed metal

11%

Wood Glass/plastic beads

10%

Acrylic

Polymer clay

Occasion for which a consumer is most likely to shop for fashion accessories at a gift boutique 19% 46% 35%

Preparing for a trip/vacation As a "just because" pick-me-up As a gift

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Types of fashion accessories consumers are most likely to buy in a gift store/fashion boutique 46%

Apparel

39%

Socks

34%

Fashion jewelry

33%

Handbags/totes/wallets

30%

Slippers Sandals/shoes

28%

Sunglasses

26%

Scarf

26%

Hairband/clips/hair accessories

26% 22%

Hats

14%

Belts Wrap Reading glasses

13% 7%

By Generation

Gen Z

Millennials

Gen X

Baby Boomers

APPAREL

53%

47%

33%

FASHION JEWELRY

42%

46%

33%

21%

HANDBAGS/TOTES/WALLETS

32%

41%

35%

25%

SUNGLASSES

41%

37%

21%

13%

SOCKS

40%

43%

41%

32%

HATS

32%

29%

18%

15%

SANDALS/SHOES

31%

32%

28%

22%

SLIPPERS

28%

36%

34%

19%

HAIRBAND/CLIPS/HAIR ACCESSORIES

37%

28%

26%

19%

SCARF

29%

30%

26%

20%

BELTS

22%

19%

11%

10%

WRAP

20%

16%

13%

READING GLASSES

Source: Strategic Insights, 2026 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

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CONSUMER DATA – CANDLES

CANDLES Home fragrance products consumers are most likely to buy in the next 12 months By Generation

Gen Z

Millennials

Gen X

Baby Boomers

CANDLES

86%

82%

65%

FRAGRANCE SPRAYS

66%

70%

61%

56%

ESSENTIAL OILS (DIFFUSER REFILLS)

50%

56%

44%

36%

DIFFUSERS

39%

46%

27%

26%

WAX MELTS

37%

34%

33%

17%

SACHETS/POTPOURRI

13%

16%

12%

14%

How much consumers expect to pay for a home fragrance product 1% 2% 6%

78% of consumers say they are likely to purchase a CANDLE in the next year, making this the most

Less than $5

$5 to $14

49%

popular home fragrance product.

$15 to $24 $25 to $39

32%

$40 to $49 $50 or more

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CONSUMER DATA – CANDLES

Candle products consumers are most likely to buy in the next 12 months 96%

Jar candles Statement candles

44%

Tea lights

26%

Handmade/free-form candles

25%

Dinner tapers

15%

Candle fragrances consumers are most likely to buy in the next 12 months By generation

Gen Z

Millennials

Gen X

Baby Boomers

FLORAL/BOTANICAL

65%

62%

56%

53%

FOOD SCENTS

53%

50%

35%

FRESH

52%

61%

55%

50%

BEACH/OUTDOOR INSPIRED

52%

51%

52%

32%

SPICES

51%

50%

44%

42%

CITRUS

48%

51%

49%

35%

MASCULINE/GENDER NEUTRAL SCENTS

36%

39%

28%

12%

HERBS

30%

36%

25%

22%

UNSCENTED

14%

10%

Source: Strategic Insights, 2026 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

FRAGRANCE is the top attribute behind the decision to buy a candle, followed by PRICE/ VALUE at 75%. At 96%,

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Health & Wellness

CONSUMER DATA – BATH & BODY

BATH & BODY Likelihood consumers will buy bath and body products as gifts or for themselves from a boutique store in the next 12 months 14%

14%

20%

32%

20%

Not likely at all

Somewhat likely

Not likely

Extremely likely

Neutral

Likelihood consumers are "somewhat" or "extremely likely" to buy bath and body products as gifts or for themselves in the next 12 months By Generation

50%

Gen Z Millennials

55%

Gen X

57%

Baby Boomers

42%

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Attributes most likely to influence a bath or body product purchase FRAGRANCE

79%

PRICE/VALUE

72%

FUNCTION

43%

INGREDIENT LIST

37%

PACKAGING/LABEL

19%

BRAND STORY

11%

Types of bath and body products bought at a boutique store By Gender

57%

Hand lotions and salves

43% 50%

Liquid/foaming hand soap

43%

39%

Makeup

27% 39%

Bath products

CBD products

31% Female

33%

Bathroom accessories

Male

25%

Bath and body products most likely to be purchased at a boutique store 49% 40%

Skin care Bath products

36%

Personal fragrance

35%

Bar soap

33% 30%

Bathroom decorative accessories

24%

Hair care products Face care

24%

Men's grooming

23%

Makeup CBD products

25%

Men's grooming

23% 20% 6% 12% 10% 9% 45%

CBD products consumers are most likely to purchase within the next year 52%

Hand lotions and salves Liquid/foaming hand soap

25% 23%

Hair care products

35%

Personal fragrance

40%

Face care

47%

Skin care

28%

Bar soap

PAIN RELIEF CREAMS/PATCHES

30%

GUMMIES

26%

CHOCOLATES

20%

BATH AND BODY PRODUCTS

19%

CAPSULES/EDIBLE OILS

16%

HARD CANDIES

14%

PET TREATS

12%

14% 11%

Source: Strategic Insights 2026 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

51% of consumers said they are UNLIKELY TO BUY CBD products in the next 12 months.

SPONSORED BY

G I F T S & D E CO R AT I V E ACCE SSO R I ES - OC T OBE R 2026 - 25

CONSUMER DATA – STATIONERY

STATIONERY Amount consumers are willing to pay for a greeting card

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Folders

39% 12% 32%

COMING WINTER

DECEMBER & JANUARY

MARKET ISSUES

The December 2026 and January 2027 issues are our must-read winter market issues where retailers can find new products to refresh retail shelves. Packed with show news and product introductions, we will also bring you Reader Ranking coverage of the industry's best manufacturers and service providers as voted on by you, our readers. Combined with Bonus Distribution at all the major shows, it's the perfect time to invest your marketing dollars and start 2027 off right.

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CONSUMER DATA – GOURMET

GOURMET Gourmet products consumers plan to buy as gifts in the next 12 months By Generation

85%

35%

88%

Chocolate/candy

81%

32%

Condiments

27%

78%

25%

69% 59%

Baked goods

32% 30%

Cocktail mixes/kits

53%

21% 13%

42% 52% 45%

Coffee/tea

Gen Z

43%

Millennials

39%

Gen X Baby Boomers

36% Nuts and other

44%

snack items

46% 48%

Kitchenware products consumers plan to buy as gifts or for themselves in the next 12 months Baking accessories

41%

Kitchen tools

41%

Coffee/tea accessories

GEN Z and MILLENNIAL consumers are most likely to buy BAKING ACCESSORIES for themselves or as gifts, at 53% and 55% respectively.

37%

Cutting boards/cheese serving platters

32%

Outdoor cooking/entertaining accessories

23%

Wine/cocktail tools

23%

None of the above

25% Source: Strategic Insights, 2026 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

SPONSORED BY

2 8 - G IFT S & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

CONSUMER DATA – GIFTABLES

GIFTABLES Occasions consumers are most likely to purchase a gift for in the next 12 months 92%

Birthday

90% 66%

Christmas/Hanukkah

48%

37%

32%

30%

2026

30%

18% 20% 16% 18% 15%

How often gifts are purchased for pets

17% 8%

Non-traditional special occasion

2025

31%

22%

New home

35%

Wedding

23%

Sympathy

31%

Thank you

21%

Get well

47%

Just because

24%

Other holiday

48%

Anniversary

27%

New baby

59%

Mother's Day/Father's Day

25%

Graduation

Types of pet products consumers have bought for their pet in the past year 61%

Treats

14%

56%

Toys

47% 32%

Pet wellness products

27%

Pet dishes

25%

Pet clothing/fashion/accessories

22%

Blankets

20%

Once a year or less 2 to 4 times a year

30%

Pet bed

Pet birthday/celebration kits/accessories

12%

5 to 10 times a year More than 10 times a year

SPONSORED BY

G I F T S & D E CO R AT I V E ACCE SSO R I ES - OC T OBE R 2026 - 29

CONSUMER DATA – GIFTABLES

Most important gift attributes By Generation

36%

78% 71%

Useful

37%

Gift card

70%

38% 39%

72% 33%

70% 56%

Personalized

32%

Customizable

54%

20%

44%

13% 31%

48% 56%

Funny

41%

Inspirational

53%

45% 42%

40% 44% 39%

Decorative

Gen Z

29%

Millennials

34% 33%

Baby Boomers

Purchasing behavior for gift sets with multiple items

Primary reason for buying a gift set By Gender

Female

Male

10%

20%

22% 21%

10%

29%

Convenience

Gen X

50%

44%

11%

70% 39%

42%

Has purchased

Allowed recipient to experience multiple products

Hasn't purchased

Better value than buying a single item

Not sure

Allowed for breaking up sets into multiple gifts Allowed buyer to give some items as gifts and keep some Source: Strategic Insights, 2026 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

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CONSUMER DATA – HOLIDAY

HOLIDAY Holidays and seasons consumers plan to buy home décor for in the next 12 months By Generation

Gen Z

Millennials

Gen X

Baby Boomers

CHRISTMAS

85%

82%

79%

74%

HALLOWEEN

64%

60%

49%

37%

THANKSGIVING

56%

59%

55%

48%

FALL

47%

44%

38%

28%

NEW YEAR'S

38%

37%

21%

16%

VALENTINE'S DAY

37%

30%

21%

15%

EASTER

36%

35%

33%

26%

WINTER

31%

30%

23%

16%

4TH OF JULY/PATRIOTIC HOLIDAYS

28%

26%

27%

23%

SPRING

26%

29%

24%

20%

SUMMER

20%

31%

21%

13%

ST. PATRICK'S DAY

16%

11%

HANUKKAH

PASSOVER

Consumers’ average planned spending on holiday décor over the next year WINTER/CHRISTMAS

$161

HALLOWEEN

$66

FALL/THANKSGIVING

$79

SUMMER/PATRIOTIC HOLIDAYS

$57

SPRING/EASTER

$49

8% of consumers DO NOT PLAN TO BUY any holiday or seasonal décor in Just

the next 12 months, down from 9% in 2025.

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CONSUMER DATA – HOLIDAY

Christmas categories consumers are planning to buy this year

Style of Christmas décor consumers plan to purchase this year By Generation

Ornaments

61%

Candles/home fragrance

60%

Apparel/fashion accessories

42%

Seasonal gourmet items

41%

Bath and body items

Gen Z

36%

Decorative accents

33%

Advent calendars

14%

28%

Tableware

24%

Tea towels/other textiles

22%

Pillows

21%

Nativity sets/nativity-themed gifts

16% Millennials

15%

Attributes consumers look for when buying Christmas ornaments KEEPSAKE/MEMENTO

53%

TRADITIONAL STYLE

52%

REFLECTS PERSONAL INTERESTS

50%

MATCHES CURRENT DÉCOR

47%

PERSONALIZED

42%

COLLECTIBLE

25%

VERSATILE/ALL-YEAR DÉCOR

20%

LICENSED/POP CULTURE

19%

CONTEMPORARY COLORS

16%

24%

Gen X

11%

After Halloween Shop year-round During December When prompted by special sales for Christmas

23%

58%

17%

After Thanksgiving/Black Friday

36%

14%

10%

Baby Boomers

11%

53%

When consumers start Christmas shopping 10%

60%

19%

After Labor Day

11%

Source: Strategic Insights, 2026 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

Traditional/nostalgic Muted/transitional with other seasons SPONSORED BY

Neon/bright and cheerful Don't plan to purchase new décor this year Other

3 4 - G IFT S & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Coming In December Reader Ranking Winner Coverage

2026

The response has been phenomenal! Thousands of votes were cast in our 5th Annual Reader Rankings Survey. We’ll tell you who won in our December issue.

Stay tuned!

giftsanddec.com

CONSUMER DATA – KIDS

Kids Toy categories purchased by age group Infants

Toddlers/ Grade Tweens Teens pre-schoolers school

ART/CRAFT KITS

24%

40%

37%

25%

BOOKS

20%

32%

42%

44%

40%

BUILDING TOYS

15%

38%

33%

19%

10%

DOLLS/PLUSH

23%

39%

28%

14%

FIGURINES

18%

27%

28%

18%

GAMES/PUZZLES

22%

39%

26%

GIFT SETS/ PAIRABLES

17%

29%

30%

22%

15%

PRETEND PLAY

17%

39%

28%

11%

STEM/STEAM

17%

30%

35%

29%

Importance of licensed characters when buying toys Not at all important Not important

22%

14%

27%

28%

Neutral Somewhat important Extremely important

SPONSORED BY

3 6 - G IFT S & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

CONSUMER DATA – KIDS

About the Data

Likelihood of buying a kid's toy or game for yourself or someone 18 or older in the next 12 months 18% 32%

20% Gifts & Decorative Accessories ﬁelded an exclusive online consumer survey in August 2026 about gift products and home decorating. The survey garnered 1,000 responses. The respondents included 118 people from Generation Z, 290 millennials, 313 members of Generation X, and 279 baby boomers. The survey also represents responses from 295 households with incomes below $50,000; 330 households in the $50,000 to $100,000 income range; 268 households earning between $100,000 and $200,000; and 83 earning more than $200,000. The sample was balanced nationally based on geographic area, ethnicity, age, home ownership and income groups. The results explore consumer opinions on buying, owning and giving products in the home décor, candle, dinnerware, holiday décor, gourmet and housewares, fashion and apparel, bath and body, CBD, greeting cards and stationery and toy and general gift categories. The research was conducted and analyzed by Strategic Insights for Gifts & Decorative Accessories.

16%

14%

Somewhat likely Neither likely nor unlikely Somewhat unlikely Very unlikely

Types of games or toys LIKELY TO BUY for an adult 65%

Board games Puzzles

62%

Card games

54%

Plush animals

51%

Arts and crafts

51%

Quirky/novelty toys for the office

44%

Nostalgic games/toys

42%

Yard games

30%

Source: Strategic Insights, 2026 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

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Very likely

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Turn to us throughout your day for news, information and more. www.giftsanddec.com

TREND REPORT – DISPLAYS

DISPLAY

TRENDS Help solidify your shop’s identity with the latest display tips and visual merchandising trends.

Gift shops, like people, come in many sizes, styles and shapes. Each type of shop creates its own image and identity using display props to highlight merchandise. Here are the current trends in visual merchandising and display tactics.

Bard’s. 1.800.323.5499. bards.faire.com.

Relaxation Stations

Neuro-aesthetic zoning is all about creating intentional quiet zones that are “cleaner” in their presentation. These are designed to be a visual vacation from busier areas. Rather than having eight pieces of the same product layered on a shelf or in a basket, this type of quiet zone has pieces on different heights of risers so each piece can be seen as unique. The risers in this type of area are clean and simple, and while they may be of different heights, widths and lengths, their material and color are the same. In this way, they are seen but then virtually disappear to allow the products to stand out. While the buildups can be Plexi, the trend is for more matte and frosted ﬁnishes such as a sea glass look. This area should also be well lit with LED spotlights in the 2,500 kelvin warm spectrum or tabletop lamps.

Tapping into Local Culture

Localization is simply creating areas and focal points that are unique to your speciﬁc city or town; for example, a huge painted wall mural of Mount Hood is the powerful backdrop to a display of local boots in Portland, Ore. Find something unique to your part of the world and ﬁnd a way to incorporate it into your displays.

Recycled But Not Tired

Eco-consciousness is growing in people’s awareness. Recycled materials, repurposed acrylics and plastics that mimic pebbles, real river stones, slate, terra cotta, wood and tinted concrete shapes are all gaining in popularity. Typewriters, scales, 4 0 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

“Find something unique to your part of the world and ﬁnd a way to incorporate it into your displays.” small wood chairs, stepstools and old books (not musty) are some of the fun and eco-conscious ways to give merchandise different heights on a table, shelf or in the windows. The popular cottagecore trend makes use of this display style.

Moving and Shaking

Kinetic window displays are excellent attention grabbers and right on trend for creating excitement in your windows. Simple slow-moving turntables will stop people in their tracks. If electricity is an issue, consider solar-powered options if your windows get direct sunlight.

Small-scale Seasonal

Micro-seasonal displays can take the place of large-scale holiday and seasonal trims. Create small seasonal displays around the store. For example, highlight a curated selection of Valentine’s Day gifts with pink LED string lights (battery powered and ideally rechargeable) in a glass dome — or three, to bring the eyes to that area. Just remember, stay true to your image and use props that deﬁne your taste.

Bard’s A trusted brand since 1969. Offer your customers the displays they know and expect.

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TREND REPORT – HOME

WALL

ART Where there’s a wall, there’s a way to decorate with framed art that personalizes any living space.

Dressing up one’s living space doesn’t have to involve a fresh coat of paint. Consumers in all stages of life are investing in wall art as an effortless, cost-effective way to freshen up existing décor or to personalize a new dwelling space. According to a 2026 Houzz study, wall art ranked the third-most popular home décor purchase, after rugs and pillows/throws. From nurseries and kids’ bedrooms to living and guest rooms, wall hangings add style to the home in a variety of mediums.

Eye Candy

First-time parents are in the market for decorative items that enhance their little ones’ surroundings. In the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 58 percent of millennials planned to purchase paintings and framed pictures in the coming year. Nurseries adorned with decorative wall art help elevate the look and feel of a child’s ﬁrst bedroom. Often tying into a speciﬁc nursery design, popular selections include Noah’s Ark, barnyard animals, woodland fairies and other picks that offer a playful touch. Modern nurseries awash in soft neutrals are complemented by collections of varying sizes, with one larger framed art piece anchoring three or four smaller pieces. Retailers carrying other juvenile products, such as baby bedding, plush toys and other furnishings, can add themed wall art for a comprehensive design. As kids grow and room makeovers become a reality, stores have another opportunity to meet consumer demand. In fact, the same survey reports that Gen Z consumers represent the largest category (66 percent) in the market for wall art. Tweens and teens developing their own personal interests are inspiring wall décor designs that speak to their varied tastes. Framed artwork celebrating hobbies and sports remain evergreen styles, while more contemporary imagery mirroring comic book art and edgy pop culture motifs are also on trend. 4 2 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Devanie At Home. 435.610.8557. devanieathome.com.

“Tweens and teens developing their own personal interests are inspiring wall décor designs that speak to their varied tastes.”

And to Wall a Good Night Seasonal wall décor, another burgeoning category, is a solid choice for adding a festive touch to the home. Consumers decorating for the holidays are turning to cheery wall hangings as an easy way to swap out existing art. Younger shoppers are again leading the category, with 45 percent of Gen Z and millennials planning to buy decorative accents, including wall art, for the coming season. While vintage Santas and snowmen are popular picks for all ages, holiday farm animals are popping up in framed wooden pieces with a rustic vibe. Double-sided art with reversible imagery, such as a plain evergreen on one side and a decorated Christmas tree on the other, makes seasonal segue a cinch. Christmastime isn’t the only occasion for integrating wall art into holiday setups. Vintage prints of autumn leaves, pumpkins and other farmhouse-style motifs are on trend, as is the vintage ghost craze that continues to take hold in Halloween décor. Witches in dark silhouettes, another retro-themed motif, is also casting a spell in the wall art department.

TREND REPORT – HOME

SPRING & SUMMER

DÉCOR

Consumers love to bring bright, happy themes into and around their homes to recognize the changing seasons.

After months of gray skies and cold temperatures, there’s something undeniably joyful about welcoming spring and summer into the home. Swapping heavy textures for lighter fabrics, bringing in cheerful colors and making room for ﬂowers and greenery can make a space feel refreshed right along with the season. And there may be more to that feeling than simple spring fever: Research has found that people tend to report more positive moods in spring, while studies have also linked natural daylight with improved wellbeing. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 25 percent of respondents plan to buy spring décor and 22 percent plan to buy summer décor, with millennials and Gen Zers leading the charge.

Feeling Fruity

The popular theme for the upcoming season is straight out of the fruit bowl. Citrus continues to be popular with a continuation of lemons along with a dash of oranges in warmweather décor, while cherries and strawberries will continue their rising takeover in spring and summer designs. These themes work best in the kitchen and dining areas, though items like trinket dishes, vases, photo frames and more can extend the motifs into other living spaces. Figural designs — like a lemon- or berry-shaped pitcher — are very much on consumers’ watch lists as they look for more fun, whimsical designs in the home.

Cute Critters

Little crawly critters can be cute — and they are a surefire sign of changing seasons. After the bumblebee trend took flight a few years ago, it made way for other insects like beetles, moths and caterpillars. Ladybugs and butterflies have been fluttering to the top of shopping lists, while even the littlest ants are turning into a cute 4 4 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Special T Imports, Inc. 844.480.GIFT (4438). specialtimports.com.

“Spring and summer décor lends itself to both indoor and outdoor setups. Whatever motifs you choose to stock for the season, it’s important to offer a wide variety of products that ﬁt.” picnic-esque motif. Other critters like chipmunks, hedgehogs, frogs and birds remain viable options with their own niche audiences for indoor décor and sprucing up the garden.

Don’t Forget the Outside

Spring and summer décor lends itself to both indoor and outdoor setups. Whatever motifs you choose to stock for the season, it’s important to offer a wide variety of products that fit. Porch adornments, door hangers and garden flags are simple ways for consumers to dress up their homes without breaking the budget. If you stock outdoor décor, make sure to keep a versatile inventory that reflects several seasonal themes. And don’t underestimate the power of the porch goose — a resurgence of the vintage statue is taking millennial homeowners by storm. If you don’t have the space to offer full-sized porch goose statues, consider stocking seasonal outfits for dressing them, or smaller indoor figurines.

SPRING & SUMMER

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TREND REPORT – HOME

GARDEN

DÉCOR Outdoor decorations are taking on a more personal, playful feel as consumers transform outdoor spaces.

After a long winter spent looking at bare branches and dormant gardens, spring brings gardeners the chance to recreate their outdoor oasis for the new year. Whether they’re using the space to grow herbs and veggies or dressing up an outdoor entertaining space with a variety of plants, garden décor helps make those spaces feel just as personal and inviting as the rooms inside the home. Consumers are seeking out everything from whimsical accents and colorful planters to functional pieces that add a ﬂair of personality throughout their yards and gardens.

For the Planters

Not everyone has the space for full, lush gardens in their yards. For some green thumbs, their plant babies reside in decorative planters. Planters on their own can be a stylish statement, just like vases, with different shapes, sizes and colors. If the interior color of the year options bleed into the outdoors, we can expect consumers to be drawn to earthy yet light tones like faded greens and pale yellows. Beyond the planter itself, there are a variety of accessories to help dress up plants’ homes. For the herb fans, cute stakes with artistic renditions of whatever they are growing are great gift options. Stakes featuring garden critters like caterpillars, ladybugs and butterﬂies also help add pops of color and personality to a planter ensemble.

A Bit of Whimsy

Though the gnome has ﬁnally started to fade, consumers are creating little whimsical towns, similar to fairy gardens, throughout their outdoor spaces as an ode to the former trend. With that, products featuring colorful mushrooms and toadstools, little cottages for fairies and critters, and even a few oh-sofamiliar gnomes are ﬁnding new life. Consumers looking to stray from the gnome are, instead, 4 6 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

SPI-Home. 800.223.4438. spi-home.com.

“Consumers are seeking out everything from whimsical accents and colorful planters to functional pieces that add a ﬂair of personality throughout their yards and gardens.” focusing on woodland creatures like hedgehogs, deer, squirrels and more. Magical whimsy is also coming into play with solar-powered lanterns, glow orbs and crystals that add a soft glow to the nighttime scene. The trendy porch goose, which took over outdoor spaces in 2026, will continue to add a touch of whimsy to consumers’ homes, especially when dressed in themed attire, like a raincoat and galoshes, or overalls and a trowel.

Welcome to the Garden

The same way that consumers like to dress up their front doors and porches, garden lovers want to create an entryway to their outdoor haven. Beyond traditional garden flags, consider stocking items like stone or ceramic path steppers adorned with florals, birds and other popular outdoor themes. Garden statues featuring playful renditions of household pets — like a dog with a butterfly on its nose or a cat in pounce mode toward a cricket — can appeal to pet owners of the same breeds.

Stuff That Makes You Smile – Since 1973 377 Swift Avenue South San Francisco info@spi-home.com | www.spi-home.com | 800.223.4438

TREND REPORT – HOME

WIND

CHIMES Consumers can enhance their outdoor spaces with the artistry of wind chimes.

As consumers look to continue making the most of their outdoor spaces, the initial thought is all about appearance. In fact, 40 percent of consumers plan to purchase new outdoor décor in the next year, according to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey. Generationally, millennials are the most interested in new outdoor décor (46 percent), followed by baby boomers (41 percent). Gen Xers and Gen Zers aren’t that far behind — more than one-third of each group plans to buy new décor in 2027, at 35 percent and 38 percent, respectively. But creating the perfect outdoor oasis is about more than just how it looks — it’s also about how it sounds. Adding a touch of audible tranquility can easily be done with wind chimes. Whether they are dressing up a backyard space or adding a nice touch to the front porch, wind chimes can help elevate any space.

Special Sounds

Wind chimes have been around for centuries, and they have evolved drastically since the early times. Modern-day wind chimes come in a variety of sizes and materials that create different sounds. If you’re stocking chimes in your outdoor décor section, it’s important to offer a variety of sounds to appeal to a broad range of customers. Tubes with a smaller diameter will offer higher-pitched sounds, while larger diameters give a deeper melody. Some wind chimes go even further than just tranquil tones and offer consumers familiar tunes. When the wind sail is rotated in a specific direction, the soft notes can be reminiscent of songs like “Amazing Grace” or “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” If you don’t have the ability to display multiple chimes in store, consider displaying signage that tells shoppers — the musically inclined shoppers, at least — which note each chime is tuned to. Better yet, utilize QR codes that can bring up the 4 8 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Wind River. 800.345.2530. windriverchimes.com.

“Whether they are dressing up a backyard space or adding a nice touch to the front porch, wind chimes can help elevate it all.”

sounds of the chime on a shopper’s phone with a quick scan so they can listen before they buy. This selling tactic also prompts customers to interact with the product, creating a better chance that they’ll purchase it.

Personal Gifts

Consumers are constantly looking for gifts that add a personal touch for the recipient — more than half (54 percent) say it’s a top attribute they consider when purchasing a gift. While some chimes come in a variety of colors, especially bronze, patina, steel and blue, others have decorated wind sails to take them to the next level. Special engravings also up the ante and make the gift much more meaningful. Consider offering options geared toward relationships — mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, aunt, uncle, sister, friend. Some wind sails may include sentimental poems or inspirational quotes. Custom engravings can go even a step further, allowing the buyer to pair personal messages with chosen designs like hearts, birds or even sports-related imagery.

A Meaningful Connection The Wind River® Elements Collection — Nature’s balance captured in tone and design. Each chime is tuned to notes that reflect the spirit of its element—Earth, Air, Fire, and Water—bringing the resonance of nature into everyday life.

HarborSong by Wind River® are formed TM

from durable steel and shaped in the tradition of coastal bells. Designed to move with the breeze and resonate with presence, these bells are available in a variety of sizes, finishes, and tonal profiles.

Visit us online.

Wind River® 800-345-2530 windriverchimes.com service@windriverchimes.com

TREND REPORT – HOME

CASUAL DINING & OUTDOOR

ENTERTAINING Everything old is new again when it comes to al fresco dinnerware.

Home is where most consumers break bread, including with friends. According to Circana’s latest Eating Patterns in America report, 86 percent of meals are prepared in the comfort of one’s own kitchen. The cost of eating out, coupled with a surge in healthy eating, has prompted more consumers to gather at home where they can control their diets as they entertain friends and family. This trend translates to a tremendous opportunity for retailers to restock their shelves for the coming season. Casual dinnerware for indoor use is an overwhelming favorite, with 91 percent of 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey respondents opting for this style.

Resort Refresh

Rethinking backyards and decks as sanctuary spaces has prompted consumers to create dining spots that go beyond everyday living. The latest Outdoor Living Trend Report from the International Casual Furnishings Association reveals that homeowners are designing outdoor spots that resemble mini getaway setups. In this vein, casual dining that evokes a staycation theme helps incorporate warm-weather vibes in everyday eating. Tropical resort-inspired motifs are popping up on serveware, plates and bowls, awash in a bright palette of pinks and greens. Flamingos and toucans are taking center stage on whimsically designed drinkware, adding a playful touch to spring and summer tablescapes. Dishware and table accessory styles run the gamut, with something to suit every taste. Retro and vintage designs are playing out across dishware and cloth napkins in muted ﬂorals, gingham checks and picnic-inspired cherries and lemons from Grandma’s kitchen. Also on trend are lidded glass tumblers with straws, a popular pick for iced beverages at barbecues and other al fresco meals. 5 0 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

tag. 773.871.1300. tagltd.com.

“When buying casual dining tableware, sturdy design for ease of transport between indoors and outside remains at the top of consumers’ wish lists.”

Outside Attraction

As consumers return to outdoor living during the warmer months, ﬁrst-time homeowners and new apartment dwellers are investing in outdoor dining sets and accessories. This year’s survey respondents revealed that 30 percent of millennials and 25 percent of Gen Z consumers were in the market for new supplies. When buying casual dining tableware, sturdy design for ease of transport between indoors and outside remains at the top of consumers’ wish lists. Melamine dishware has expanded into a variety of colors, with muted purples, grays, creams and sage leading the way. Higher-end melamine resembling ceramics in its heft and durability continues to hold its own, while acrylic wine glasses and tumblers in primary colors add pop to tablescapes. New serveware designs may steal the spotlight in the coming year, evidenced by a mixture of oval-shaped platters and rectangular trays that balance out a busy tabletop.

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TREND REPORT – HOME

LAKESIDE

LIVING With casual comfort continuing as a top decorating style, gifts and décor inspired by a relaxing day at the lake hit home for consumers.

The casual, comfort-driven home décor style has held its place at the top of consumer preferences for several years running, and lake-inspired gifts and décor ﬁt nicely into that demand, especially as customers look for new home items in 2027. In the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 78 percent of consumers deﬁne their preferred decorating style as Casual Comfort. For retailers stocking gift, home and fashion accessories, that demand for a relaxed, lived-in style is good reason to keep lakeside-themed products on the sourcing list for the year ahead.

Personalized Details

As more consumers weave personal details into their apparel, accessories and home goods, gifts and décor featuring lake-lifestyle messages, icons, locations and coordinates will remain popular throughout the coming year — whether the buyer owns a vacation home on the water or simply loves the lifestyle from afar. A custom-etched coordinate marker, a family’s lake name stitched onto a pillow, or a hat stamped with a speciﬁc lake’s outline all speak to the same instinct: consumers want their gifts and décor to feel like theirs, not off-the-shelf. That appetite for personalization is part of a broader shift reshaping the gift and home industry. According to a 2026 Statista report, the global home décor market was valued at $125.21 billion in 2025 and forecast to grow to more than $142 billion by 2030. Trend forecasters say the increase is in part due to the rising demand for personalized and customized home products.

Relaxing by the Lake

Popular designs inspired by the lake lifestyle lean heavily on relaxation icons — a rowboat, for instance, evokes lazy days drifting on the water or playful afternoons spent ﬁshing. Bass and other ﬁsh motifs, paired with traditional plaid patterns in blues and greens, round out the lakeside theme. Crossed 5 2 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Pavilion. 888.762.4457. wholesale.paviliongift.com.

“The duck has taken the lake-inspired trend by storm and is appearing on everything from coasters to pillows to sweatshirts.” paddles is another traditional lake-inspired design that will never go out of style. As both inspirational and funny message gifts continue to trend, gifts and apparel with “if you know, you know” type of messages aimed at the lake community will be in demand, as well. Those messages typically call out the beneﬁts of the relaxing, slower life by the lake.

Creature Comforts

Black Labradors, ﬁsh and, especially, the mallard duck are the top animal motifs showing up on lakeside décor and gift items. The duck has taken the lake-inspired trend by storm, appearing on everything from coasters to pillows to sweatshirts. Beyond these animal motifs, products designed for relaxation by the water remain strong sellers among consumers who see lake life as part of their identity. Hats with lake-life messages, paddle graphics or coordinates will continue to trend alongside the broader demand for trucker hats. Matching apparel — especially loose-ﬁtting sweatshirts — plus blankets, indoor and outdoor pillows, and decorative water bottles round out the assortment retailers should keep on hand.

TREND REPORT – HOME

OUTDOOR HOME

DÉCOR

In fair weather and foul, consumers are showing their personalities outside of the home.

Personality used to stop at the front door, but that’s not the case anymore. Homeowners are increasingly using their doorsteps, porches and yards as a canvas for self-expression, and independent gift retailers are perfectly positioned to help them do it. In fact, according to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 40 percent of consumers plan to buy outdoor décor in the coming year, including outdoor pillows, porch boards, wind chimes and garden ﬂags. And this isn’t a passing trend. Allied Market Research, a market research, consulting and advisory ﬁrm, found that the outdoor décor market size is projected to reach $117.7 billion by 2032. In other words, this category isn’t just blooming; it’s positively perennial.

Engaging the senses

Consumers are also looking for attention-grabbing décor. Gazing balls catch the light and draw attention with their reﬂective, eye-catching surfaces, while wind chimes offer the rare gift of being both beautiful to look at and beautiful to hear, with each breeze composing its own small song. It’s décor that doesn’t just sit in the yard; it participates in it. For independent retailers, this trend is an open invitation to stock up and think creatively about merchandising once the ground starts to thaw. Consider grouping bird-themed pieces with hydrangea accents for a cohesive springtime display, or creating a sensory corner featuring wind chimes and garden spheres side by side. As consumers continue to treat their exteriors as an extension of their identity, retailers who lean into personality-driven, multisensory outdoor décor won’t just weather the trend — they’ll help it grow.

Décor with personality

Consumers want their outdoor spaces to say something about who they are before a guest ever rings the doorbell. A decorative wreath can hint at the season or the household’s style, while a 5 4 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Fieldstone Home. 757.855.0800. ﬁeldstonehome.com.

“A decorative wreath can hint at the season or the household’s style, while a garden ﬂag featuring a favorite sports team or a cause close to the homeowner’s heart turns a front yard into a quiet conversation starter.” garden ﬂag featuring a favorite sports team or a cause close to the homeowner’s heart turns a front yard into a quiet conversation starter. For those who want to keep things light, whimsical garden statues add a touch of humor and warmth — proof that not every design statement has to be serious to be meaningful.

Feathers and blooms

This year, feathered friends are ﬂocking to front porches everywhere, with ducks and geese taking center stage in small statues, ﬂags and seasonal accents. The bright bills and webbed feet are sure to bring a smile to a guest’s face. Birds of all kinds are also catching eyes. While cardinals are a mainstay, additional species such as blue jays, robins and more exotic options like colorful macaws, are also worth stocking. Another trend that is continuing to gain traction is hydrangeathemed décor, which is an elevated yet understated look for garden enthusiasts. Fluffy hydrangea blooms can make a porch or yard feel fresh and inviting.

TREND REPORT – HOME

ACCENT

RUGS Walk this way for insights on accent rugs and welcome mats for 2027.

Accent rugs let consumers dress up their spaces to reﬂect their style, personality and the season, all while doing a very practical job. For independent gift retailers, that blend of décor and function is a chance to really tie the room together. In fact, according to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 54 percent of consumers plan to buy area rugs or welcome mats in the coming year. That makes sense, since rugs and mats often need refreshing after several seasons of repetitive use. Looking at the bigger picture, according to Global Market Insights, a market research company, the global accent rugs market is expected to grow from $8.8 billion in 2025 to $13.6 billion by 2034. Consumers want to add personality and style to their homes, and they want to refresh the look fairly often without a large price tag. An accent rug is the perfect answer. Swapping in a new one for fall, then again for spring, transforms a room or front porch faster than a paint job and costs far less. It’s a seasonal shift that won’t ﬂoor anyone’s budget. Here’s what your customers will step up for in the coming year.

Options for every aesthetic

The 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey found that the home decorating styles most popular with consumers are casual comfort, modern or urban chic and vintage. Accent rugs speak all three languages. Picture plush neutrals and cozy textures for casual comfort, bold geometrics and clean lines for urban chic, and faded ﬂorals (think big hydrangea blossoms) or heirloom-inspired patterns in warm, golden tones for vintage. In general, shades of blue will still be popular in a variety of designs since it is such a versatile hue. However, color experts are pointing toward light greens and rich browns as the most popular choices for 2027. These colors are also versatile and read as earthy and comfortable. Outdoor welcome mats have been increasing in popularity 5 6 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Regal Art & Gift. 925.335.2300. regalgift.com.

“Shoppers are looking for rugs that are durable, easy to clean, soft underfoot and versatile enough to ﬁt any aesthetic.” over the last couple of years as they dress up a home’s front entrance — the first point of contact for those who come knocking. Mats that are durable but also speak to dwellers’ interests, like their pets, favorite sports team or sense of humor are the trendiest options for 2027.

Function meets fabulous

Style may catch the eye, but performance closes the sale. Shoppers are looking for rugs that are durable, easy to clean, soft underfoot and versatile enough to ﬁt any aesthetic. Highlight washable materials, low-maintenance weaves and stain resistance on your displays and signage. A rug that survives muddy paws, pizza night and a busy front door is one customers will happily recommend. Bonus points for sustainable materials that your sales team can talk about with customers. With demand climbing and a steady cycle of replacement purchases, now is the time to give this category prime real estate in your store. Stock a range of styles, keep a few seasonal swaps up front, and watch your customers keep coming back. After all, there’s no better way to roll out the red carpet than by offering them one.

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TREND REPORT – HOME

DECORATIVE

ACCESSORIES Small accent pieces offer big-picture incentives for consumers refreshing their interior décor.

Freshening up living spaces is top of mind for today’s consumers, especially those shopping for decorative accessories. In the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, more than half (58 percent) of respondents expect to purchase accent pieces, such as lamps and candle warmers, in the coming year. As retailers ﬁne-tune their inventory lists for ﬁrst-quarter buying and beyond, they can zero in on which product trends are shaping this expansive category.

Cherry on Top

Kitchen accessories that add polish to busy prep and plating spots are a favorite of at-home cooks. The recent trend of lemon-printed collections of coordinating dish towels, placemats and table runners is giving way to a cherries jubilee. Popping up on vintage wall signs, plates, mugs and jar toppers, these fruits are also carrying over into other areas of the home via decorative pillows, napkin rings and faux blossoms in vessels and vases. For kitchens lacking a dishwasher and where counter space is at a premium, soft mats are edging out drying racks as an absorbent alternative. Designed with a handy hook, they do double duty as a wall hanging when not in use. Popular styles include berries, botanicals and beloved pets. Underfoot, welcome mats and accent rugs provide warmth and style immediately upon entrance. In fact, 54 percent of consumers plan to purchase welcome mats and area rugs this year. Braided jute is a viable option for high-traﬃc areas of the home and entry points. For the holidays, consumers can swap out all-purpose welcome mats and decorative rugs for seasonal shapes, including pumpkins and gingerbread houses.

Let There Be Light

Subtle yet effective ways of brightening up home interiors stem from accent lighting. The prevailing ambient lighting trend has 5 8 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Primitives by Kathy. 866.295.2849. primitivesbykathy.com.

“The recent trend of lemon-printed collections of coordinating dish towels, placemats and table runners is giving way to a cherries jubilee.” fueled the latest crop of lamp styles, including curved bases and scalloped edges. Mini means more in the case of small fixtures for end tables, nightstands and other tabletop surfaces. On trend for the coming season are lamps with floral patterned shades that coordinate with lighter fabric window treatments, pillows and throws. In the darker months, candle warmers add ambience to natural light-deprived spaces. The same survey reveals that 42 percent of consumers consider decorative value an important attribute when buying candles, giving further proof that aesthetics play a key role in purchasing decisions. The latest styles include warmers designed to resemble old-fashioned table lamps that once graced sitting rooms and front parlors. Gothic picture frames and Victorian-era accents complete the latest trendy look. Not to be missed is the expanding flock of porch goosethemed merchandise. The throwback figure from the 1980s has reemerged as both an outdoor ornament and indoor accent, in the form of kitschy lamps, figurines and more.

TREND REPORT – HOME

SOLAR

LIGHTING Illuminated outdoor décor powered by the sun creates a bright opportunity for independent retailers.

Consumers are looking for easy, cost-efficient ways to illuminate their homes and walkways, and solar lighting fits the bill. There’s no wiring, no electrician and no added energy cost. Simply place it in the sun and let it do the work. The demand is real, too. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 40 percent of consumers plan to buy outdoor décor in the coming year, and 38 percent plan to buy lighting. The growth outlook is just as sunny. According to Grand View Research, a market research and consulting firm, the global outdoor solar LED market size is projected to grow from $11 billion in 2026 to $21.3 billion by 2033.

Innovative illumination

Though solar-powered pathway markers remain popular, they’re now just one small part of a much larger category. Offerings have expanded to lanterns, ornaments, wind chimes, wall décor, tabletop accents, birdbaths and even wind spinners. That variety means there’s a solar piece for every budget, style and gift-giving occasion, from housewarming presents to a “just because” treat for a friend. The latest development is creative ﬁgural lanterns that have more personality than a typical cube or cylinder shape. Lanterns in the shape of a ﬂower, hot-air balloon or boat, for example, add pops of color when both unlit and illuminated. Speaking of color, the use of colored glass is another popular development that adds a warm glow reminiscent of a stained-glass window.

Warm and whimsical

Cold LED lighting is a thing of the past. Today’s solar lighting can offer flickering flame effects, sparkling crackle glass reﬂections and even decorative projections that dance across a patio or fence. The result is personality and whimsy at a low cost. Whether your customers dream of a cozy, candlelit porch or a storybook backyard, there’s a style for everyone. Best of 6 0 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Regal Art & Gift. 925.335.2300. regalgift.com.

“Today’s solar lighting can offer flickering flame effects, sparkling crackle glass reflections and even decorative projections that dance across a patio or fence. The result is personality and whimsy at a low cost.” all, it delivers a lot of charm for up to eight full hours after a day charging in the sun. Popular solar-powered décor designs include lanterns with floral or boho-inspired cutouts that cast whimsical patterns, along with seasonal garden stakes (like pumpkins and sunflowers for fall) and pieces featuring outdoor favorites such as frogs, geese and hedgehogs. Garden stakes and statues accented with light-up orbs add a touch of magic to outdoor displays, especially those fashioned after the trendy “fairy house” look.

Shining displays

If you have never sold solar lighting before, consider adding it to an outdoor display as the winter thaws. Pair it with outdoor mats, small garden statues and citronella candles to inspire your customers to up their outdoor game. A well-styled vignette helps shoppers picture the ﬁnished look on their own porch, and it makes add-on sales easy. Even a small table near the entrance can spark big interest.

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TREND REPORT – FASHION

FASHION

JEWELRY Retailers looking to stock trendy jewelry for 2027 should take a cue from the past.

According to a 2025 report by McKinsey & Company, jewelry is expected to be the fastest-growing fashion category by unit sales, growing four times faster than clothing. It’s easy to see this boom in boutiques, with consumers craving not just earrings and necklaces, but also high-quality charms to outﬁt their jewelry, scarves, key rings and more. Because it sits at an approachable price point, appeals to consumers’ desire for personalization and takes up very little shelf space, jewelry is a smart inventory purchase. Here’s what’s trending for 2027. Vintage looks and throwback styles, especially from the 1970s and Art Deco era, are appealing to consumers’ desire for bold accessories that tell a story, notably wide bangles and cuffs and bright-yellow gold accessories that pop in photographs. Layered necklaces will continue to be popular, and new attention will be given to adjustable statement rings and Victorian-inspired pendants.

Uniquely Made

As consumers continue to be attracted to handmade goods and higher-quality items, artisan-made jewelry and jewelry that looks intentionally imperfect will resonate with buyers. Think: asymmetrical earrings, hammered-metal ﬁnishes, raw gemstones, oblong pearls, clay beads and fabric wrappings. Playful and colorful pieces are also trending, with pearls, bows, charms, nostalgic icons and nature-inspired details resonating strongly. For 2027, ocean and shell motifs that evoke a sense of calm and whimsy will be especially popular. Pieces that tell a story or allow consumers to express themselves, like charms for bracelets, necklaces, backpacks or even shoes, will continue to attract attention at boutique stores. Personalization remains a major driver in fashion, and charms that allow customers to express their style in fun, customizable ways will continue to be in demand, whether 6 2 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Howard’s Inc. 800.777.5658. howardsinc.com.

“Vintage looks and throwback styles, especially from the 1970s and Art Deco era, are appealing to consumers’ desire for bold accessories that tell a story.” meant for jewelry, handbags, scarves, hats or key rings. Jewelry with coordinates, handwritten engravings, thumbprints or special materials like regional sand, shells or ﬂowers will be especially popular as they answer the consumer demand for more personalization options. Waterproof and tarnish-resistant accessories that offer carefree style will continue to be in demand for both vacationbound travelers and everyday fashionistas.

Mixing Metals

When it comes to fashionable jewelry, consumers often have a preferred material that they feel matches their aesthetic best. For a long time, yellow gold and white gold/sterling silver were the ﬁrst two options that came to mind. They still have a strong following — 50 percent of consumers say they prefer yellow gold, while 68 percent opt for white gold/sterling silver. The newest trend, however, combines both. Stacked necklaces, layered bracelets and earring sets featuring both materials are in high demand. Some pieces even twist the two together for one cohesive piece versus the layered look.

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TREND REPORT – FASHION

RESORT

WEAR Spirited blue hues, open-weave silhouettes and textures made for comfort lead the vacation apparel category.

Retailers stocking for the 2027 resort season can expect to see a demand for comfortable and convenient fashion, joyful colors and patterns, and outﬁts that blur the line between loungewear and vacation dressing. Overall, bold prints, bright colors, breezy silhouettes and embroidered summer dresses, alongside cute vacation pajamas and travel loungewear, will be the hottest hits for the season.

Beyond the Beach Bag

As more consumers travel year-round rather than only during peak summer, demand is climbing for comfortable, elevated road-trip and airport attire alongside classic resort staples. Terry fabric, long associated with poolside robes and towels, is being reimagined across categories — including handbags — further blurring the boundary between loungewear and resort wear. Sleepwear deserves shelf space as well. Fashionable pajamas and vacation-ready loungewear have become an extension of the packing list, not an afterthought. For many travelers, packing beautiful sleepwear is a small act of self-care and an easy luxury moment within a trip. Round out assortments with comfortable footwear — soft slippers or slipper styles with rubber soles — giving weary travelers relief after a full day of airports and itineraries. The throughline for 2027: Consumers want pieces that move seamlessly from transit to destination without compromising on style or comfort. Retailers who stock bold color, breathable natural textures and comfort-ﬁrst silhouettes — spanning daywear, loungewear and sleep — will be best positioned to meet where resort travel is headed next year.

Happy Hues

Bright high-summer hues — bold oranges, sunny yellows and ocean-inspired blues — will dominate the spring and summer 6 4 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Elsie & Zoey by Howard’s Inc. 800.777.5658. howardsinc.com.

“Bold oranges, sunny yellows and oceaninspired blues will dominate the spring and summer color story.”

color story. According to Trendalytics’ 2027 color forecast, which flags rising warm-water and spirited hues like Cobalt Blue and Energy Orange, optimistic, contrast-driven palettes are showing momentum across the market. Bold blues will carry extra weight for the season, with Inside Fashion Design noting several brands will be using cobalt-inspired hues to anchor their 2027 collections. For travelers seeking escape, coastal palettes of tropical greens and blues along with painterly brights will dominate, paired with airy, nature-inspired materials such as crochet, gauze and linen for an “elevated casual” summer aesthetic. Open-weave textures are showing up everywhere, from handbags to apparel, giving looks a breezy, eye-catching quality without sacrificing polish. Softer notes will round out the mix: pale butter yellow, sky blue and abstract florals that read as refined rather than overtly tropical. A “soft romance” theme is also gaining traction, built around midi dresses, blouses and lace details balanced with relaxed denim and mix-and-match sets suited for day-to-night versatility.

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TREND REPORT – FASHION

SPEC-TACULAR

EYEWEAR Consumers are looking for glasses that are just as fashionable as they are functional.

Readers have become more fashionable over the last decade to appeal to consumers with style. Gone are the days of boring black wire frames. Now, consumers have endless ways to express themselves with their functional accessories. And there is a new demographic shopping for them. The primary buyers of readers are consumers over 40, and the leading edge of that group is now made up of millennials. This generation grew up with fashion as self-expression, and they’re not about to abandon that mindset just because their eyes need a little assistance. For millennial (and Gen X) shoppers, readers aren’t just a vision aid — they’re an accessory. That shift in mindset is fueling real growth. According to Grand View Research, “The global reading glasses market size was valued at $14.4 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow from $15.2 billion in 2026 to $23 billion by 2033.” That’s a category with real momentum, and gift retailers are perfectly positioned to capture it.

Fashion Forward

Readers have to appeal to the fashion-forward millennial. Think: thick rims in bold, saturated colors, tortoiseshell patterns with personality, or sleek thin-metal frames that could easily pass for high-fashion eyewear rather than a necessity. This is where merchandising can really shine: Group frames by color story or display them like jewelry rather than lining them up on a spinner rack. Customers want something that says “personal style,” not “I forgot my readers at home.”

Sunnies year-round

Don’t box sunglasses into a seasonal, warm-weather display. UV exposure is a year-round concern. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, more than a quarter of consumers (26 percent) say they plan to buy sunglasses from a gift shop or fashion boutique. 6 6 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Peepers By PeeperSpecs. 219.872.4413. wholesale.peepers.com.

“[Millennials] grew up with fashion as self-expression, and they’re not about to abandon that mindset just because their eyes need a little assistance.” While a traditional display is ﬁne, consider pairing them with items geared toward the outdoors, like gardening equipment in spring, beach towels in summer, scarves in fall and ski gear in winter, for a display that tells a story all year round.

Blue-light blockers

Blue-light glasses now appeal across generations — from screen-fatigued students and remote workers to shoppers with more life experience who’ve simply had enough of end-of-day eye strain. Because blue-light glasses typically don’t require a prescription, they’re a wonderful impulse buy. They’re also a great entry point for customers who suspect they need vision help but aren’t ready to commit to a pair of prescription glasses yet. For retailers, that makes them an ideal counter display or cash wrap-adjacent add-on. Curating a mix of bold traditional frames, blue-light options and sunglasses gives shoppers a reason to look twice.

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TREND REPORT – FASHION

ARTISAN-MADE

JEWELRY

Handmade jewelry is booming — and the imperfections are the key selling point.

Handmade accessories are having a moment, and the numbers back it up. According to Allied Market Research, the global handmade jewelry market was valued at $151.5 billion in 2022, with a projection to reach $472.5 billion by 2032. For manufacturers and retailers alike, the category is proving to be a genuine growth opportunity, especially as the DIY craft movement continues to take hold. Consumers looking for unique pieces that feel worth the price are naturally drawn to handmade accessories.

What’s in Fashion

When it comes to popular styles of jewelry, boho remains the style most closely tied to handmade work, and it’s easy to see why: the loose, free-living aesthetic naturally lends itself to the imperfect, one-of-a-kind quality of artisan craftsmanship. Common building blocks include hand-rolled clay beads, wrapped yarn, repurposed fabric scraps and shapes sculpted from wood, bamboo, metal and even natural ﬁnds like pinecones or seashells. Global inﬂuences are also shaping the look, particularly motifs, colors and patterns drawn from African cultures and Native American traditions. These cultures have long histories of artisan craft, and their patterns and techniques continue to inform what’s showing up on shelves — from beadwork to metalwork to woven textures.

Materials

The materials used in handcrafted jewelry are just as diverse as the creative designs themselves. Clay beads, cork and bamboo sit alongside sculpted metal, silver and gold, while natural gemstones add texture and visual interest. Yarn, fabric and embroidered detailing round out the mix, adding even more carefully curated details. White gold/sterling silver and yellow gold continue to be the top choices for consumers, at 68 percent 6 8 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Anju Jewelry. 404.221.0707. anjujewelry.com.

“Consumers looking for unique pieces that feel worth the price are naturally drawn to handmade accessories.”

and 50 percent, respectively, according to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey. Rose gold has a solid following, too, at 32 percent. Trend forecasters looking ahead to 2027 point to a broader return to tactility across jewelry with an emphasis on hammered surfaces, matte ﬁnishes and visible marks of the maker’s hand — a shift that aligns closely with what’s already driving the handmade category.

Perfectly Imperfect

Oblong pearls, irregular gemstones, slight pattern deviations and mismatched pairs aren’t signs of lesser quality — quite the opposite. For today’s shoppers, these small imperfections are proof of authenticity: a signal that a piece was shaped by an individual artisan rather than pulled off a production line. That distinction is exactly what’s fueling demand, as consumers increasingly seek out accessories that feel personal, considered and worth the investment.

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TREND REPORT – FASHION

COZY

FOOTWEAR From mahjong tiles to embroidered details, slippers are putting wearers’ personal tastes — and pastimes — right underfoot.

Comfortable slippers and house shoes have long been top sellers, but the category has been experiencing a boom since the pandemic now that comfort-centered, home-based lifestyles are the new norm. According to Business Research Insights, the global slippers market is projected to reach more than $11 billion at the close of 2026 and climb to $15.5 billion by 2035. Driven by Gen Z’s inﬂuence, key trends for 2027 lean into personality-driven patterns and elevated, craft-forward details.

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on the right foot

“Key trends for 2027 lean into personality-driven patterns and elevated, craft-forward details.”

Popular Patterns

or other ’90s activities like playing retro video games or rollerblading. Patterns with animal motifs remain a mainstay, but buyers should widen the assortment well beyond dogs and cats. Highland cows and “Christmas cow” prints have built momentum over the past two holiday seasons, and Christmas chicken designs are expected to break out in 2027. As more consumers take up birdwatching, the demand for bird prints should rise, as well. Dachshunds are also expected to be popular.

Slippers and house shoes, whether designed for comfort or fashion (or ideally both), present a great selling opportunity for retailers. In Business Research Insights’ Slippers Market Overview, the company stated: “The global slippers market is expanding due to consumer demand for comfort, fashion and functionality. The rise of remote work and stay-at-home cultures has driven the need for high-quality inner footwear. Inventions in materials [and] the growing popularity of decoration and developer slippers is fueling market growth.”

Retailers stocking slippers for 2027 should think about their customers’ personalities. As shoppers increasingly buy accessories that reﬂect their hobbies and personal tastes, novelty patterns tied to leisure pursuits are poised to sell. Mahjong is a prime example: Yelp named the tile game a top retail trend for 2026, noting that searches for mahjong clubs jumped 4,467 percent year over year, and mahjong-branded events on Evite were up 94 percent in early 2026 versus the year prior. Gaming and golf motifs should perform similarly well among shoppers eager to wear their pastimes on their feet. As footbag — often referred to as Hacky Sack — resurges in popularity, keep an eye out for designs that tap into the pastime 7 0 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

A Stitch Above the Rest

Beyond pattern, craftsmanship is the differentiator for slippers in 2027, giving rise to more elevated options like those with embroidered details. Handmade and artisanal details have surged across apparel and accessories, and slippers are no exception. Embroidered slipper designs read as more elevated than printed alternatives, and the raised, textured stitching delivers a sensory payoff shoppers are actively seeking. Expect that embroidery push to accelerate alongside two adjacent trends: stylish travel loungewear and cute vacation pajama sets.

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TREND REPORT – CANDLES

FRAGRANCERS AND

DIFFUSERS Home fragrance is having a bright moment — no wick required.

The home fragrance aisle is glowing, and it doesn’t need a flame to do it. Flameless fragrance is stepping into the spotlight. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 34 percent of consumers plan to buy a diffuser in the coming year. That’s roughly one in three customers who could walk through your door with a diffuser on their wish list. Industry momentum is building, too. According to a report by Grand View Research, the flameless category is projected to grow 9.5 percent per year through 2030, attributed to increasing consumer preferences toward safer, flameless alternatives to traditional candles.

Scents to stock

Scent is the leading driver behind home fragrance purchases — 96 percent of consumers rank it as the top attribute. But ﬁnding out which scents they are after is the key to stocking successfully. Florals continue to be the frontrunner, as 58 percent of consumers name it as a sought-after fragrance for the next 12 months. Gourmand scents such as vanilla, tart citrus and berry-forward desserts bring sweet, comforting appeal that’s hard to resist, so much so that 46 percent of consumers have it on their lists. It is tied with beachy notes for second on the list of preferred fragrances. Fresh scents, such as cotton and summer rain, deliver a clean, airy feel that works year-round. For the more adventurous nose, earthy scents — such as sage, sandalwood and tomato vine — are rising in popularity. This year, 28 percent of consumers will be looking for herbal, earthy scents.

No flame, no fuss

Flameless fragrance options include electric scent diffusers and reed diffusers, which are safer and emit fragrance all day. No ﬂame means no worrying about pets, kids or a burning wick left behind on the way out the door. For your customers, that’s peace 7 2 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Airome. 801.771.8650. airome.com.

“Sculptural ceramic bases, sleek glass vessels and playful vintage-inspired silhouettes mean a diffuser can be a display piece and provide pleasant fragrance.” of mind with a lovely scent on top. For you, it’s an easy sell to the cautious gift giver who wants something thoughtful without the ﬁre hazard. It’s a truly scent-sible choice.

Dreamy design

Flameless home fragrance is no longer an unsightly plug-in or tabletop eyesore. Today’s designs are elevated and can ﬁt any aesthetic, from warm minimalism to throwback retro style to a statement piece of home décor. Sculptural ceramic bases, sleek glass vessels and playful vintage-inspired silhouettes mean a diffuser can be a display piece and provide pleasant fragrance. Give these items a prominent spot in a home décor display and let the design do the talking. Stylish diffusers aren’t just for the home, either; designs that add a burst of delightful fragrance to cars and Christmas trees are trending, too. Flameless fragrance checks the boxes shoppers care about: safe, stylish and long-lasting. Display a curated range and your sales may spread as far as the scent throws.

Timeless HOLIDAY DECOR

www.airome.com

TREND REPORT – CANDLES

WARMERS AND

MELTS

A safer option than an open ﬂame, these home fragrances smell like opportunity.

The future is bright for ﬂameless fragrance, and gift retailers are in a prime position to heat up their sales in the coming year. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 30 percent of consumers plan to buy candle warmers and/or melts in the coming year, and of that group, 71 percent are Gen Z and millennials. That’s a meaningful signal for shop owners: this isn’t a passing fad; it’s a shift in how a younger, style-conscious consumer wants to enhance their experience at home.

More than a feeling

For Gen Z and millennial consumers, it’s not just about fragrance. It starts with feeling. Today’s buyers aren’t just picking a scent; they’re picking a mood. Fragrance selection has become intentional, tied to the atmosphere someone wants to create in their personal space, whether that’s fresh, grounded or soft. The most popular profiles reflect that emotional element: garden-fresh scents that evoke the outdoors, hotel-inspired florals that bring a touch of luxury and polish, and woodsy notes that ground a room in warmth. Fifty-eight percent of consumers prefer floral/botanical scents, while 46 percent go for both foody scents and beachy notes. Stocking a range across these three profiles gives customers an easy way to shop by feeling rather than just by scent name.

Flameless practicality

The appeal of warmers and melts goes beyond fragrance and looks alone. Flameless options offer real, practical benefits. Because wax melts release scent gradually through heat rather than an open flame, the wax lasts significantly longer than a traditional candle, meaning customers can activate that same fragrance again and again before it’s spent. It’s a better value proposition, and one that’s easy to explain at the counter. Just as important, flameless warmers are simply a safer option. 7 4 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Candle Warmers Etc. 801.771.8650. candlewarmers.com.

“Today’s buyers aren’t just picking a scent; they’re picking a mood.” Without an open flame, they pose less of a fire hazard, offering peace of mind. To maximize your flameless fragrance sales, create a dedicated merchandising display, grouped by scent profile or design style, and consider running a warmer during store hours. Letting a fragrance fill the air as customers shop turns a passive display into an experience.

A nose for design

Design matters just as much as scent right now, and two aesthetics are leading the way: warm minimalism with clean lines, matte finishes and soft neutral tones that blend seamlessly into modern décor, and vintage-inspired designs, like warmers styled after old-fashioned table lamps. These styles let a warmer double as a décor piece, which makes it an easier sell to customers who want form and function in one. Candle warmers and melts are no longer a niche accessory; they’re a growing category with real staying power. With the right fragrance and design mix, a clear safety and value story, and merchandising that lets customers experience the product ﬁrsthand, independent retailers have a genuine opportunity to grow this gift category in the year ahead.

Whimsical SEASONAL DECOR

www.candlewarmers.com

TREND REPORT – BATH & BODY

SELF-CARE WITH

CBD

Increased relaxation, better sleep and brighter skin are just some of the beneﬁts consumers are looking for when considering CBD products.

Health and wellness have established themselves in the cultural vernacular, as consumers invest in services and solutions designed to improve sleep quality, mental health and their overall well-being. Of note is the presence of cannabidiol (CBD) products available in specialty gift shops, where an expansive range is attracting more shoppers — or, at the very least, opening their eyes to numerous options. The 2025 Gift Book Consumer Survey reported that 49 percent of consumers were unlikely to buy CBD products in the coming year. This hesitancy dwindled to 46 percent of respondents in the 2026 survey. Retailers that have yet to stock CBD on their shelves might consider dipping their proverbial toe into the water with select body care, gourmet treats and other items offering myriad health beneﬁts. For those stores that have already embraced this trend, keeping tabs on the latest offerings helps to satisfy consumer demand. The latest note about CBD bath and body products is that shoppers aren’t buying them for their CBD ingredient alone.

The Skinny on Skincare

Consumers are turning to CBD bath and body products to enhance their complexion. On trend is full-spectrum hemp skincare that incorporates all parts of the hemp plant for maximum nourishment and hydration. The latest solutions are designed to brighten skin’s appearance, tone and texture, while soothing and reducing redness. Consumers can create an at-home spa experience with all-in-one kits that provide the essentials for hemp-based facials. With a near-even representation of men (10 percent) and women (12 percent) buying CBD bath and body products at independent boutiques, as indicated by this year’s survey, retailers are wise to offer a broad array of products. From body washes and face oils to hand creams and bath bombs, there is something for every CBD-loving consumer. 7 6 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

FarmHouse Fresh Goods. 888.773.9626. fhfpartners.com.

“Retailers that have yet to stock CBD on their shelves might consider dipping their proverbial toe into the water with select body care, gourmet treats and other items offering myriad health beneﬁts.” On the medicinal front, shoppers are turning to CBD topicals. Pain-relief creams and patches represent the lion’s share of consumer purchases at 30 percent. Because these solutions are designed to relieve sore muscles and joint stiffness, displaying them with athletic apparel and accessories offers the potential for add-on sales.

Sweet Dreams

From skincare to self-care, CBD products are also trending with consumers looking to promote good sleep hygiene. Ingestible sweets, including gummies (26 percent) and chocolates (20 percent), are topping shopping lists as of late. Designed to curb anxiety and promote relaxation before bedtime, these treats make a sweet addition to at-register vignettes of sleep masks, lavender-scented bath bombs and other smaller items. Since consumers like to keep their furry friends top of mind, chewy treats made with hemp oil help round out the pet accessories section.

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TREND REPORT – BATH & BODY

PERSONAL

FRAGRANCE Gourmand scents and fragrance layering get top notes for 2027.

Fragrance has always been a gift-shop staple, but the way consumers think about scent is wafting fast. Here’s what’s driving the category for 2027, and how to put it to work in your store.

Inis the Energy of the Sea. 888.543.6320. inis.com/en-us.

Layering makes scents

It’s not just a smell; it’s a lifestyle. According to trend intelligence platform Spate, colognes, scent layering and “fragrance wardrobing” are reshaping how consumers shop. With scent layering, the same fragrance can become part of an entire routine, moving from body wash to lotion to hair mists to perfume so that the smell builds and lasts. Some consumers are even choosing similar fragrances for their home and laundry through luxury detergents and fragrance sprays, maximizing their “signature scent.” Others take the opposite approach, combining several different scents to create a fragrance combination that’s uniquely their own. Alongside this, fragrance wardrobing is on the rise: Rather than committing to one signature scent, shoppers are collecting several fragrances and choosing which to wear based on mood, season or occasion. Fragrance is evolving from a single-bottle purchase into a personalized, layered and often full-body experience — and that shift gives independent retailers plenty of room to get creative with merchandising and storytelling for the coming year.

On a warm note

If you’ve noticed customers gravitating toward warmer, richer, more indulgent scents, you’re spot on. According to Spate’s 2026 Fragrance Report, gourmand scents, vanilla and Arabianinspired perfumes are among the fastest-growing trends in scent proﬁle. Think notes like caramel, tonka bean, oud, amber and warm spice (and a surprising rise in matcha) — fragrances that feel cozy and a little indulgent with staying power rather than 7 8 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

“Gourmand scents, vanilla and Arabianinspired perfumes are among the fastestgrowing trends in scent profile.” light and fleeting. According to Good Housekeeping, perfumes with sweet-treat notes and even coffee and tea notes. were top profiles for 2026 and are expected to top the charts for 2027. For retailers, this is an easy trend to capitalize on: Merchandise together candles, room sprays and personal fragrances that are built around these warm, dessert-like or exotic notes; they will make natural companions to your existing gift sets for a Pinterest-worthy display.

On a lighter note

Seasonally, as the weather gets warmer, fragrances tend to get lighter, with bright florals, crisp citrus and fresh notes like clean linen and washed cotton taking center stage. Nature-inspired scents also pick up in demand, like sea salt, fresh summer strawberries or even moss. The 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey found that the floral category is most popular with Gen Z, followed by millennials. Rose, jasmine, lavender and other floral notes that evoke “Victorian opulence” are especially popular with Gen Z consumers and will continue to get attention as vintage themes trend.

TREND REPORT – BATH & BODY

LOTIONS AND

SKINCARE Proven ingredients are worth their weight in gold(en glow).

Skincare and body care aren’t just a beauty-aisle story anymore — just as they have the potential to brighten complexions, they could brighten independent retail sales, too. In fact, bath and body products are one of the most reliable gift categories on the ﬂoor, and the category is only getting bigger. Fifty-two percent of consumers say they are either “somewhat or extremely likely” to purchase bath and body products from a boutique store, according to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey. Globally, the market is booming. DelveInsight, a market research and consulting ﬁrm, predicts the global skincare products market will surpass $260 billion by 2034. That growth is a signal worth paying attention to: Shoppers are already primed to buy lotions and skincare as gifts, and stocking the right products can turn a casual browser into a repeat customer. Here’s what’s (shea) buttering up the category right now.

Two in one

Today’s consumers want products that work double and triple duty. A single lotion that hydrates, smooths and brightens is a far easier (and more affordable) sell than three separate items that each do one thing. This multitasking mindset is especially appealing to gift buyers, who want something that feels thoughtful and complete without requiring a whole routine. When curating your assortment, look for lotions and creams that lead with more than one purpose — hydration plus ﬁrming, or soothing plus brightening.

Doctor approved

Bath-and-body consumers are more ingredient-savvy than ever, and they’re looking for reassurance that what they’re buying actually works. Products with a dermatologist endorsement offer that reassurance instantly, especially for gift givers who may not know the recipient’s skin type or sensitivities. Dermatologist-approved (or even celebrity-approved) packaging 8 0 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

The Naked Bee. 888.760.7190. nakedbee.bz.

“Brands are moving actives and ingredients once reserved for facial products, like hyaluronic acid, peptides and niacinamide, into body lotions, washes and treatments.” does some of the selling for you, so consider highlighting it on shelf talkers or in your product descriptions if it’s not already prominent on the box.

Body focused

With more than half of surveyed consumers likely to buy a bathand-body product from a boutique store, the category is gaining more attention from makers and retailers. One of the biggest shifts happening is the “skiniﬁcation” of body care — brands are moving actives and ingredients once reserved for facial products, like hyaluronic acid, peptides and niacinamide, into body lotions, washes and treatments. Body care is no longer just a basic moisturizer; it’s becoming a category with the same ingredient sophistication as facial skincare. For your customers, that means a body lotion or body wash can now feel like a luxury purchase with expected results rather than a basic or generic gift. The best way to sell body care is, of course, to offer testers. Feeling is believing when it comes to this category.

TREND REPORT – STATIONERY

EVERYDAY

GREETINGS Consumers continue to mark special occasions with traditional greeting cards that surpass ordinary texts and posts any day.

From witty to whimsical, greeting cards deliver just the right message and help convey special sentiments for all occasions. Consumers are in the market for cards either to accompany a wrapped gift or as a standalone item serving as the gift itself. Regardless of format, cards are universal in their purpose: to say what needs to be said in a way that is heartfelt, humorous and memorable. According to the Greeting Card Association, nine out of 10 households in the U.S. buy greeting cards every year — a ﬁgure that remains consistent at a time when paper-based sentiments are a welcome antidote to digital communication fatigue. Eight out of 10 consumers reported that greeting cards cannot be supplanted by online communication, aﬃrming an ongoing opportunity for retailers to maintain a well-rounded inventory.

Leanin’ Tree. 800.525.0846. tradeleanintree.com.

“Regardless of format, cards are universal in their purpose: to say what needs to be said in a way that is heartfelt, humorous and memorable.”

Many Happy Returns

Birthdays continue to represent the lion’s share of greeting card purchases, with shoppers searching for speciﬁc themes that best express their intention. Last year’s Gift Book Consumer Survey revealed that humorous cards represented 71 percent of the most popular type, followed by sentimental picks at 49 percent. This year’s designs offer a broad spectrum of tastes, from sepiatoned photos with a nostalgic vibe to comic-book-style art paired with contemporary messages. Popular motifs include playful pets and other animals in silly scenarios, while over-the-hill cards mark birthdays with their trademark all-in-good-fun style. Milestone birthdays are another favorite birthday card subcategory, holding steady at 37 percent — a trend that’s expected to continue. Given a recent National Center for Health Statistics report citing an all-time high in average life expectancy in the U.S., consumers are ﬁnding more reasons to celebrate their golden years with special selections. Cards packaged with small gifts like decorative pins or buttons commemorate these events, while pop-up cards designed for display are an instant visual 8 2 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

merchandiser for specialty boutiques. Also on the rise are cards that celebrate diversity, accounting last year for 11 percent of birthday card purchases, up 5 percentage points from the previous year. With more than 70 million immigrant arrivals in the U.S. over the past ﬁve decades, according to the Pew Research Center, calls for cards that speak to a more inclusive population are on trend.

Splurging on Sentiments

Gift givers don’t view price as a major obstacle when purchasing greeting cards, especially younger generations. The 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey reports 21 percent of Gen Zers are willing to pay $5 to $6.99 per card, followed by 20 percent of millennials, 16 percent of Gen X and 19 percent of baby boomers. With cards running as high as $9 and as low as under $1, retailers are wise to concentrate their inventory on a slightly above-average selection for maximum sales.

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TREND REPORT – STATIONERY

GIFT

WRAP When it comes to wrapping presents, consumers want to elevate their presentation with cute and colorful options.

While plenty of consumers say they lament the gift-wrapping process because it’s time-consuming and sometimes diﬃcult, the majority are still spending on gift wrap products that elevate their gifts. According to a 2026 study from Market Reports World, the global gift wrap industry is currently estimated at $4.03 billion and is projected to top $6 billion by 2035. Consumers have several decorative options, from paper with traditional motifs to colorful gift bags to clever boxes.

Prints Aplenty

Traditional wrapping paper is overwhelmingly the most popular choice for consumers across holidays. The Market Reports World data shows that printed wrapping paper is the leading category, representing 61.3 percent of the market in 2024. Popular papers for birthdays come in a plethora of classic designs, like balloons, ribbons, confetti, birthday typography and sweet treats with candles. These are great options for stocking in gender-neutral color palettes since they work for any age. Licensed characters and pop-culture references are also popular. While they won’t serve everyone, keeping popular kid characters in stock is a good idea for those buying gifts for younger consumers. Popular patterns that work for all occasions, ages and genders are stripes, polka dots and the increasingly trendy plaid and checkered. These patterns are easy investments since they can be used for such a wide variety of gift-giving moments.

Bag It

Not everyone is skilled at wrapping presents in pretty paper. For those looking for an easier route, gift bags are often the go-to. Like traditional wrapping papers, gift bags are great items to keep in stock. Occasion-speciﬁc options that call out baby 8 4 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Nashville Wraps. 800.547.9727. nashvillewraps.com.

“Consumers have several decorative options, from paper with traditional motifs to colorful gift bags to clever boxes.”

shower, birthday, anniversary and more are easy options. But don’t underestimate the power of simple patterned bags — colorful stripes, playful polka dots and colored gradients are worth stocking for those buying gifts for any special moment. Bags donning cute animals, especially cats and dogs, remain popular for all ages.

Holiday Highlights

For the holiday season, wrapping paper is by far the most popular choice. Similar to birthdays, there are a handful of classic motifs that are timeless — Santas, reindeer, Christmas trees and elves on reds and greens, along with snowmen and snowﬂakes on blues and silver, will remain go-to options. This year, Highland cows are coming into the holiday spotlight. Keep your eyes on printed paper and gift bags donning the cute cow in winter settings. Christmas dachshunds are also expected to trend as a popular motif.

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TREND REPORT – STATIONERY

SASSY

SENTIMENTS Cards that tickle the funny bone are a sure bet for birthdays and beyond.

Greeting cards that grant consumers permission to tease friends and loved ones affectionately are a welcome opportunity. Whether they’re shopping for a birthday present or just for fun, consumers perusing cheeky cards has the power to elicit laughter in store. Transferring that same sassy sentiment to the gift recipient is a gift in and of itself — one that retailers can bank on. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 73 percent of respondents deem humor the most important attribute when shopping for greeting cards. The study also revealed that age does not discriminate, with 77 percent of boomers in the market for funny sentiments, followed by 74 percent of Gen X customers, 70 percent of millennials and 67 percent of Gen Z shoppers. Price is not an obstacle when buying greeting cards. The same survey revealed the $4 to $4.99 selection as the sweet spot for 23 percent of boomers, 21 percent of Gen X respondents, 19 percent of millennials and 13 percent of Gen Z customers. Retailers need not hesitate when ordering higher-price-point cards that elevate the gift-giving experience.

Birthday Bonanza

Poking fun at getting older never gets old. Birthday cards that pair playful sentiments with retro art are a hit with consumers. Black-and-white photos like those pulled from treasured family photo albums and scrapbooks are all the rage. Smiling faces, many of which feature bespectacled women and men sporting cat-eye and other retro-style frames, are a favorite among the nostalgia-seeking consumer. Obvious indicators of oldie- but-goodie sentiments are backdrops with vintage cars, beach parties and backyard setups of yesteryear. Also of note are belated birthday sentiments boasting self-referential humor, making the card as meaningful for the gift giver as it is for the gift recipient. Novelty birthday cards, too, have their place in the card aisle. 8 6 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Trash Talk by Annie. 866.295.2849. trashtalkbyannie.com.

“Birthday cards that pair playful sentiments with retro art are a hit with consumers.” Jigsaw puzzle cards in colorful designs offer a blank space for adding a personal note. Breaking up the puzzle pieces before sealing the envelope provides an engaging experience for instant gift giving.

My Funny Valentine

Birthdays aren’t the only occasion for sharing and sending sassy sentiments. The National Retail Federation reported that 41 percent of consumers planned to buy Valentine’s Day cards in 2026, fueling the market for Galentine’s Day and other events for celebrating friendship. Sharing the fun and drama of motherhood, dieting and retirement are also popular themes for humorous cards. Not to be forgotten are the just-because category of sassy sentiments. Nearly one-third (32 percent) of 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey respondents plan to purchase a thinking-ofyou card in the coming year. Whether a form of encouragement for a gal pal trying a new career, or a neighbor in need of a simple pick-me-up greeting, these cards represent a market niche with increasing potential for the new year.

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TREND REPORT – STATIONERY

PARTY

SUPPLIES Consumers are having more parties than ever, and they want décor to help dress up each event.

Consumers are hosting more at-home get-togethers than ever before. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, more than one-third of consumers (36 percent) plan to host at least three to ﬁve social gatherings throughout the next year and an additional 32 percent of consumers expect to host one or two gatherings. When it comes to dressing up their home spaces for these gatherings, party supplies are high on the docket. In fact, 68 percent of consumers plan to buy decorative disposable supplies like plates and napkins, while 46 percent are looking for centerpieces and table decorations. For shoppers concerned with waste, festive melamine plates and serveware are perfect for a celebratory gathering, whether indoors or outdoors. Pieces adorned with leaves and acorns are perfect for fall, while garden-fresh produce patterns help summertime parties pop.

Reasons Aplenty

While some gatherings may just be casual dinners, plenty are driven by a special occasion. Outside of holiday-related gettogethers, birthdays are the top reason for hosting a party — 60 percent of consumers expect to host at least one birthday gathering in the next year. Nearly half of consumers (46 percent) say they plan to host gatherings with no set occasion — meaning it’s more of a “just because” or impromptu setup. Offering the basic party décor (think plates, napkins, cups and tablecloths) in a variety of colors provides customers the opportunity to dress up any gathering. Plates and napkins with easily coordinated patterns, like stripes or metallic polka dots, allow them to add extra ﬂair to any tablescape. Special occasion/milestone events ranked third on the list, including events like graduations, anniversaries, retirements and more, with 40 percent of consumers planning to celebrate such events. Stocking occasion-speciﬁc items like banners or 8 8 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Boston International. 800.637.5061. bostoninternational.com.

“Plates and napkins with easily coordinated patterns, like stripes or metallic polka dots, allow [consumers] to add extra ﬂair to any tablescape.” balloons that can be paired with the simple colored basics creates the opportunity for multiple uses. If your store footprint allows, set up a display showing how items from different collections can work together to create a coordinated look.

Bring on the DIY

Party hosts aren’t strangers to the DIY trend. But what consumers are looking for are ways they can DIY on a budget while creating memorable, upscale décor. Painted banners have spiked as a must-have for any party. What started as a niche DIY project has rapidly evolved into a booming party décor category. And while plenty of consumers are capable of scribbling a message in marker, some brands have started offering DIY banner kits to help them up the ante. These kits allow anyone to have a unique décor element that looks professional, but with personal touches. Some kits come with design layout options, while others follow a more “paintby-number” technique. Also popular are DIY balloon arches. A great alternative to balloon bouquets, DIY arch kits take the guesswork out of assembling by providing easy, step-by-step instructions.

TREND REPORT – GOURMET

CHOCOLATES &

TREATS

Comforting ﬂavors, visual appeal and a satisfying mouthfeel are the key characteristics of top-selling treats.

Sweet treats are hard to resist. In fact, the U.S. chocolate market is considered one of the largest industries globally, reaching a value of $24 billion in 2025 with projected growth through 2031. According to a 2026 report from Statista, U.S. consumers eat about 2.82 billion pounds of chocolate a year, averaging more than 8 pounds per person, annually, to put it into perspective. In a previous report, the research company stated that women eat chocolate 2.5 times a week, while men eat it 1.8 times a week. It’s clear that the demand for chocolate and specialty candies is there, but retailers looking for an extra draw should consider stocking sweet treats that fall in line with the following trends.

Seasonal Sweets

Holidays present the biggest opportunity for confectionery sales, with Halloween and Christmas being the top two occasions to buy sweets. Market research studies show that most chocolate and candy goods are sold during November, followed by October, and specialty shapes or ﬂavors for Halloween and Christmas goodies are the biggest draws. For Halloween, pumpkin-shaped treats are always bestsellers; for Christmas, the teddy bear is the latest trendy icon alongside Santa.

Favorite Flavors

Nothing beats a classic combo like peanut butter and jelly, or in this case, chocolate and caramel. According to Statista’s 2025 consumer research report, caramel was the favorite ﬁlling in boxed assorted chocolates at 34 percent, followed by nuts at 16 percent, coconut at 12 percent, toffee at 10 percent and fruit at 9 percent. Beyond traditional ﬂavors, chocolate bars with more niche or experimental ingredients like pistachio, spicy jam, quinoa puffs or alcohol infusions will continue to draw eyes for 2027. Higher-end cocktail notes, like Champagne or espresso martini, will continue to be popular, in both chocolate confections and 9 0 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Abdallah Candies. 952.890.4770. abdallahcandies.com.

“Holidays present the biggest opportunity for confectionery sales, with Halloween and Christmas being the top two occasions to buy sweets.” gummy candies. Health-conscious consumers who still want a sweet treat are drawn to dark chocolate varieties, whether they’re solid chocolate or ﬁlled with locally sourced honey or protein-packed almond butter. Honey and honeycomb, as well as edible ﬂowers like marigolds, are especially trendy for shoppers looking for something special.

Artisanal Quality

Several market research groups have stated that consumers are willing to pay a higher price for single-origin chocolate bars and those with a short list of higher-quality ingredients and a sustainable mission. Consumers are also seeking treats with a sensory experience. According to Barry Callebaut, 80 percent of consumers desire treats that are visually stunning and feel like a work of art. The company is also seeing a shift to textural tastes, with consumers craving chewiness, crunch and unexpected mouthfeels.

TREND REPORT – GOURMET

DELECTABLE DIPS,

SAUCES & RUBS Consumers subscribe to the ‘variety is the spice of life’ adage, with sweet and savory condiments for parties and small get-togethers.

Consumers are expanding their palates — and opening their pantries — as their overall taste for more sophisticated ﬂavors evolves. In the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 29 percent of respondents plan to buy condiments, like sauces and rubs, as a gift in the next 12 months. Retailers can expect to see a diverse range of dips, sauces and rubs, with pairings that add sweet, savory and spicy tastes to parties and the dinner table.

Touchdown Tastings

Chips and dips for game day have moved beyond three-bean dip and standard snacks in favor of more daring combinations. According to the 2026 Specialty Food Association report, consumers are craving intense ﬂavors and, in some cases, the spicier, the better. Chili peppers and jalapeños play a starring role in dips and sauces, providing a kick to crackers, cheese straws and other crunchy treats. Bold seasonings are balanced out by sweeter combinations, such as cranberry and honey mustard, as well as peaches and jalapeños. The packaging and presentation of dips have also undergone an overhaul. While glass jars and decorative containers work well in gift baskets, mini portable packs provide a convenient, space-saving accompaniment for tailgating and picnicking. Also great for on-the-go gatherings are flight party packs, letting consumers sample a variety of tastes in one sitting. Merchandising standalone products along with crackers, chips and other snacks provides inspiration for hostess gift-giving.

Nostalgia Noshing

As much as consumers are experimenting with new ﬂavors in condiments, recreating time-honored traditions with a modern twist is also trending. Cheese balls, a holiday-gatherings favorite, are given the sweet treatment in dessert-inspired varieties, such as apple cider doughnut. A fondness for fondue is finding its way into the sauces 9 2 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Wind & Willow Inc. 888.427.3235. windandwillow.com.

“Chili peppers and jalapeños play a starring role in dips and sauces, providing a kick to crackers, cheese straws and other crunchy treats.” category, where sugar-driven varieties are tempered by fruits, nuts and seasonal produce. The latest flavor pairings are taking cues from the holiday dessert buffet table, inspiring sauces that can be served with cubes of fresh fruit or poured over ice cream. Popular picks include caramel paired with pumpkin, pecan and coffee, as well as chocolate blended with peppermint and peanut butter. Global flavors have commanded a strong presence in gourmet rubs and sauces, with new selections inspired by Asian and South American cuisines. Product trends from the 2026 Summer Fancy Food Show revealed the strong consumer demand for mixing up flavors and cuisines, demonstrated by kimchi and yuzu sauce and hot sauce with Peruvian spices. Retailers can expect to see more unique flavor combinations that lend themselves to new opportunities for snacking. International influences are also appearing on the grill. As foodies move away from salt-and-pepper seasoning, meats and veggies are taking on more smoke-forward flavors, like hickory and mesquite. Korean barbecue has earned a spot at the table, as sauces and rubs for marinating introduce bold flavors of smoked paprika, gochujang and garlic into the American kitchen.

TREND REPORT – GOURMET

GOURMET AT

HOME

Cooking at home is more than just a trend — it’s become a lifestyle that consumers want to level up.

For the past few years, the trend of consumers trying to do more cooking at home has been on the rise. What started as a necessary adjustment due to restrictions during the COVID19 pandemic has transformed into a popular option both for regular at-home dining and social entertaining. According to a 2025 Ipsos study, roughly 40 percent of consumers across all income levels say they’re cooking dinner at home more now than in years past. And with that increase comes the desire for new options in ﬂavors and gadgets alike.

Complex Flavors, Minimal Effort

Ready-to-make kits are all the rage across the gourmet category because they allow consumers to try new flavors and recipes without needing an entire grocery list of ingredients. This applies to everything from breads and soups to desserts and dips. There are several draws to premade mixes. From the consumer side, mixes usually require minimal ingredients — maybe some water, cream or eggs to bind whatever is in the prebought packet, which means they don’t have to hunt down 10 different spices to get a unique, flavorful punch. From the retailer side, gourmet mixes add shelf-stable, tantalizing options that whet shoppers’ appetites without taking up too much space. Consider displays that highlight flavors of the season (like apple and pumpkin for fall, and basil and lemon for summer) or even offer in-store tastings of new flavors so customers can try them before they buy them.

Seasonal Offerings

While any gourmet treat can be made any time of year, some items beneﬁt from a seasonal push. Slow cookers are going viral again for their convenience and ability to deliver meals that warm you from the inside while the temperatures drop outside. The fall season is now known as “Slow Cooker Season,” so much 9 4 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

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“While consumers remain drawn to nostalgic tastes, they are also seeking out bold flavors that pack a punch and new ways to put a spin on classics.” so that users on social media are frequently sharing tips, tricks and go-to recipes. Soups are one of the most popular options for slow cookers throughout the fall and winter seasons. While consumers remain drawn to nostalgic tastes, they are also seeking out bold flavors that pack a punch and new ways to put a spin on classics. Spicy flavors, artisan blends and fusion dishes are all trending in gourmet.

Gourmet Gadgets

Cooking at home means consumers need products to help bring their recipes to life. While fully equipped kitchens aren’t the norm for every household, even the simplest at-home cooks need to have the basics. If you offer DIY gourmet goodies in your store, consider pairing them with some simple gadgets. Baking mixes can be marketed with playful measuring cups and whisks, while soups can coordinate with hand-designed bowls or handy spoon rests. Having these smaller kitchen products on hand makes it easy for shoppers to put together quick, coordinated gifts that will feel tailor-made for the recipient.

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TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

CREATIVE

GIFTS

Whether solving a problem or creating art, consumers are on the hunt for expressive gifts.

Whether it’s a functional product designed to solve a problem, or a creative one that lets people indulge their artistic side, retailers have an ongoing opportunity to appeal to right and left brains with a bevy of imaginative items.

Putting the Fun in Functional

Retailers know that practical gifts aren’t only about purposefulness; products that can simplify consumers’ everyday routines — and look good while doing it — are smart purchases. In the fashion accessories department, knit hats featuring built-in LEDs provide a safe yet stylish option for evening hikes and neighborhood walks at dusk. Men’s grooming represents another category for creative product development and entertaining gifting. Eye-catching packaging with vintage graphics and clever wordplay adds a playful touch to everyday products, like beer scrub shower kits, shower steamers and face masks. According to Grand View Research, this $322.24 billion category will reach $506.73 billion by 2033, growing 6.7 percent annually globally. In the kitchen, consumers are in the market for tools and gadgets that simplify their lives and streamline processes. The 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey reveals that 41 percent of respondents plan to buy kitchen tools, as well as baking accessories. Silicone-based solutions are pervading the kitchen workspace, as evidenced by dishwasher-friendly baking sheet dividers and collapsible meal prep containers. Eco-friendly culinary gifts are also garnering attention among green-minded households. Travel cups and portable utensil sets made from recycled plastic help consumers practice planet protection while dining on the go.

Make Your Own Memories

As more consumers embrace the opportunity to unplug, analog activities are seeing a resurgence that translates to 9 6 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

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“Retailers know that practical gifts aren’t only about purposefulness; products that can simplify consumers’ everyday routines — and look good while doing it — are smart purchases.” retail. According to the Michaels 2026 Creativity Trend Report, guided craft kit sales increased 86 percent year-over-year, propelled by a surge in online searches for girls’ night crafts and painting parties. In a market once dominated by kid-specific sets, knitting, crocheting, embroidery and cross-stitch for adults are prompting retailers to enhance their inventory with all-inclusive kits that contain everything needed for at-home crafting. Retailers can expect to see a variety of DIY craft kits for all ages and skill sets in the coming year. In the paint-bynumber space, flowers and botanicals are favorite subjects, while cityscapes and far-flung destinations satisfy the wanderlust crowd. Nostalgic ’90s-inspired designs are popular with millennials. Pop culture is popping up on cross-stitch hoops, enticing younger consumers to give this craft a whirl. From animated video game characters to trendy beverages, newbie crafters can share their favorite things in new mediums. Attracting more customers to DIY creative gifts warrants displaying finished products or, if space permits, hosting in-store DIY crafting events for holiday gift giving.

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TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

FOCUSING ON

WELLNESS Consumers are reaching for products that help them maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Wellness isn’t a passing gift category phase. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the wellness market has doubled in size since 2013 and grew nearly 8 percent between 2023 and 2024 alone, reaching a record $6.8 trillion. Sales have continued to climb above 2019 levels, meaning this is not just a pandemicera bump. Shoppers are actively looking for gifts that support how the people in their lives eat, sleep, move and unwind. Here are three wellness categories worth building out in your store.

Let’s get physical

Physical wellness gifts perform well because they’re practical, giftable at almost any price point and easy to personalize. Hydration bottles remain a steady bestseller — especially designs with time or volume markers, insulation to keep drinks hot or cold, or bold colors. Vitamin tattoos, newer to the industry, offer a fun, lowcommitment way for customers to try functional wellness without a big purchase. And ﬁtness-focused products such as yoga mats, resistance bands or running accessories, like socks and sweatbands, appeal to the friend or family member who’s already active but always appreciates an upgrade. Consider combining smaller items (a bottle, a set of tattoos, a stretch band) into a giftable bundle, which increases average order value while making the gifting decision easier than ever.

Peace of mind

Mental wellness products tap into a growing desire for reﬂection and calm in a busy and, in some ways, chaotic world. Customizable journals — particularly those with built-in writing prompts or a gratitude focus — give gift-givers something that feels thoughtful rather than generic, and bonus: the format does some of the emotional work for them. Prayer journals appeal to consumers leaning into their religious or spiritual side. Weighted blankets continue to be strong sellers for anyone 9 8 - G IFTS & D EC OR ATI V E AC C ESS ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Warmies. 1.844.WARMIES (927.6437). wholesale.warmies.com.

“Sleep has become one of the most talkedabout wellness categories, and shoppers know it.” gifting comfort or stress relief, and ﬁdget tools have expanded well beyond their original audience, now appealing to oﬃce workers and students looking for a quiet way to manage focus and anxiety. These items work especially well near your checkout counter for an impulse purchase.

Daring to dream

Sleep has become one of the most talked-about wellness categories, and shoppers know it. Lavender-infused items like eye pillows, sachets or plush sleep aids combine aromatherapy with comfort in a way that feels indulgent but accessible. Blue-light glasses appeal to the increasingly screenheavy lifestyles of most gift recipients, helping to minimize the energizing effects of screen time. And a well-designed eye mask remains one of the simplest, most universally appreciated sleep gifts available. Together, these products let you build a dedicated “better sleep” display or gift set — a category that travel-minded and stress-relief shoppers alike will gravitate toward. With wellness spending showing no signs of slowing, stocking a thoughtful product assortment positions your shop as a go-to destination for gifts that can improve someone’s day-to-day life.

TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

PET

GIFTS Gifts for pets and pet lovers continue to grow by leaps and bounds.

For most of us, pets aren’t just animals — they’re family. They greet us at the door, curl up beside us after a long day and somehow know exactly when we need a little extra love. It’s no surprise, then, that pet owners are increasingly looking for ways to mark the milestones in their pets’ lives, from birthdays to holidays to the everyday “just because” moments that make pet ownership so joyful. According to the American Pet Products Association, 66 percent of households own at least one pet, meaning a large share of your customer base already has a furry family member on their gift list. And they’re not just buying the basics. According to a 2024 survey by Moonpig, 64 percent of pet owners celebrate their pet’s birthday every year, which is a clear signal that pet parents want to celebrate, not just care for, their animals. So, how can your store meet this growing demand? Consider building out your inventory in two key directions.

Gifts for pets

Think beyond the standard pet store fare. Stylish pet beds that complement a home’s existing décor are a great way to bring pet products out of the utility closet and into the living room. Pair those with specialty treats that feel like a genuine indulgence rather than an afterthought, and toys that are as durable as they are charming, and you’ve got an appealing pet display. Young consumers, especially, are treating their pets more like children, even celebrating their birthdays and other family holidays in creative and festive ways that are perfect for posting to social media. Decorative pet cookies and kits to make animal-friendly cakes are popular with Gen Z and millennial pet owners, as are toys shaped like celebration icons such as a bottle of prosecco, a bundle of balloons or a Thanksgiving turkey. Another subcategory worth exploring is pet accessories. Think: collars with bow ties or fun prints, stylish leash harnesses and festive sweaters and outﬁts. 1 00 - G IFTS & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

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“By curating a thoughtful selection across both, independent retailers can position themselves as the go-to destination for celebrating pets.”

Gifts for owners

Pet parents love to display their devotion through a variety of products: tea towels printed with playful pet motifs, decorative signs proclaiming “Life is Better With a Dog,” stickers for laptops and water bottles, cozy pillows, themed picture frames and graphic T-shirts. This is where retailers can really lean into the emotional side of pet ownership, with gifts that tap into that sense of pet owner identity and pride. These items make wonderful gifts for the pet lover in anyone’s life, for any giftgiving occasion and, really, any time of year. Together, these two product categories create a full-circle gifting experience: One for the pet, and one for the human who adores them. By curating a thoughtful selection across both, independent retailers can position themselves as the go-to destination for celebrating pets and the people who love them. As pet ownership continues to rise and pet parents look for more meaningful ways to celebrate, retailers who embrace this trend early will be well-positioned to capture a loyal, enthusiastic customer base, one wagging tail at a time.

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TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

INSPIRATIONAL

GIFTS

Classic religious ﬁgures are having a moment, while secular gifts with uplifting messages offer mass appeal.

Consumers are keepin’ the faith, a phenomenon that has accelerated in recent years and shows promise for the future. In a 2024 Pew Research Center poll, 18 percent of U.S. adults reported that religion was gaining influence in American life. The following year, that number jumped to 31 percent — the highest rate reported in the past 15 years. Whether tied to a specific denomination or a general inspirational feeling, consumers are looking for products that reflect this renewed desire for uplifting messages for all ages. Retailers should note that this opportunity is not tied exclusively to holiday sales. From new baby and children’s products to home décor and fashion accessories, products celebrating the promise of a new day are helping shoppers — and retailers — remain hopeful during challenging times.

Roman. 800.729.7662. retailers.roman.com.

“New nativity gifts that allow designers to move outside conventional wooden and ceramic ﬁgures are popping up in all types of categories.”

In Praise of Inspiration

Outside of religious-focused gifts, secular sentiments appeal to consumers seeking aﬃrmation in their purchases. The 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey reported that “inspirational” is considered an important gift quality across all ages, with Gen X respondents (45 percent) and baby boomers (42 percent) leading the pack. These ﬁgures are expected to hold steady into next year, as consumers look for positive messages in merchandise. Wall hangings with witty wordplay add a dose of humor to kitchens and other living spaces, while candles, coasters and coffee mugs inscribed with straightforward sentiments strike a chord with gift givers and recipients alike. Buyers also can expect to see more giftable products that carry over the overarching theme of choosing kindness.

The Good News

Traditional nativity sets, long viewed as a Christmas décor staple of religious households, are now ﬁnding a place beyond the 1 02 - G IFTS & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

mantel. New nativity gifts that allow designers to move outside conventional wooden and ceramic figures are popping up in all types of categories, including napkins, tea towels, ice buckets, drink cozies and even bath bomb sets. On the toy side are nativity finger puppets and playsets, enabling kids to act out religious stories in a hands-on format. The same survey revealed that 15 percent of respondents expect to purchase a nativity set or nativity-themed gift in the next 12 months. Other faith-based gifts seeing an uptick in sales include prayer journals, scripture cards and planners adorned with original artwork. On the fashion front, jewelry designed for holy sacraments, including baptisms, first communion and confirmation, serve as special keepsakes for treasured gift giving. Rosaries remain popular for traditional gift giving, while children’s beaded bracelets, silver and gold-plated cross pendants and decorative pins offer contemporary selections.

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TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

MESSAGE

GIFTS

Stocking up on products with entertaining and engaging sentiments are words retailers should live by.

What’s the word? Message gifts are a hot commodity. As consumers focus on unique and fun ways to express themselves, their gift purchases reflect the importance of communication through the written word. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a way to boost someone’s spirits, products proclaiming sentiments are instant shelf talkers.

Letter-Perfect Presents

Consumers who know what they want to say, as well as those at a loss for words, are equally committed to message gifts. Tickling the funny bone remains a popular gift attribute among the masses. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 56 percent of millennials considered humor an important attribute, followed by 53 percent of Gen X respondents, 48 percent of Gen Z and 40 percent of baby boomers. While this buying trend is expected to continue, retailers looking to round out their inventory of impulse and novelty buys can better appeal to the cost-conscious consumer. Stickers poking fun at habitual lateness or embracing an introverted personality are a popular pick for decorating younger generations’ laptops or water bottles. Wooden postcards, another category trending with Gen Z consumers, offer a retro vibe for conveying contemporary sentiments, such as learning to “adult,” in a mailready format. Inspirational gifts are also top of mind in the message gifts department, straddling both ends of the consumer age spectrum. The same survey saw 41 percent of millennials, 45 percent of Gen X consumers and 42 percent of baby boomers emphasizing this characteristic. Tea towels with self-aﬃrming messages and healthy-eating mantras are trending as hostess and housewarming gifts. Candles with labels that proudly profess the power of friendship and the inﬂuence of good parenting add a personal touch to bestie birthdays, Mother’s Day and other special occasions like Galentine’s Day. 1 04 - G IFTS & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Sincere Surroundings. 712.472.2290. sinceresurroundings.com.

“Vendors that offer customizable options provide an incentive for retailers to cater to their community.”

Car Talk

Commuters heading to school or the oﬃce have given rise to their own niche category of message gifts. Car coasters add personality and purpose to cup holders, catching spills via colorful ceramic designs. Car decals, another fan favorite, let drivers share their school spirit while in transit, and stylish car fragrancers add a functional and festive touch to the driving experience. Vendors that offer customizable options provide an incentive for retailers to cater to their community. Home décor items, as well as decorative accents featuring city names and ZIP codes, happily proclaim a new place of residence for recent transplants or retirees starting a new chapter. Customizable gifts that go beyond hometown pride are also on trend with consumers. Products that raise awareness of cancer and other illnesses help gift givers support and acknowledge loved ones. Pride in profession is especially popular for Teacher Appreciation Day and National Nurses Day; pairing a themed travel mug with a gift card to a local coffee shop helps honor small-town heroes in a meaningful way.

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TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

GIFTS FOR

SELF-EXPRESSION These gifts are sure to make your customers feel seen.

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, consider Gen X and millennials flattered. Just like the two generations before them, today’s Gen Z shoppers aren’t just looking for something nice to give or receive; they want items that say something about who they are. For independent gift retailers, that’s an invitation to shine, because curated style and personalization are what you do best. The numbers back it up. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 70 percent of Gen Z plan to purchase personalized gifts in the coming year. This speaks to Gen Z’s individuality. The opportunity reaches well beyond one generation, too. According to Fortune Business Insights, a market research and strategic consulting company, the personalized gift market is projected to grow from $35.95 billion in 2026 to $64.51 billion by 2034. Whether personalized or something that highlights specific interests or character traits, these product categories are certain to speak to your customers’ unique tastes.

Stickers for Every Surface

Stickers are one of the easiest ways for customers to show off what they love. Laptops, water bottles, notebooks, phone cases and car bumpers all become canvases for interests, humor and beliefs. Whether it’s a favorite hobby, a punny joke or a cause close to their heart, stickers let consumers wear their personality on their sleeve — or their water bottle. They’re also a low-cost impulse buy that encourages customers to add a few more things to their basket. Try displaying them by theme near your checkout counter so shoppers can browse while they wait.

Fashionable Add-Ons

Bag charms and keychains have become style statements in their own right. Consumers use them to dress up handbags, backpacks and even shoes, mixing and matching pieces to reﬂect 1 06 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Stickers Northwest. 253.344.1236. stickersnorthwest.com.

“[Stickers are] also a low-cost impulse buy that encourages customers to add a few more things to their basket.” their mood. Stock a variety of shapes, colors and themes so your customers can build a look that feels unmistakably theirs. Socks also offer an easy way for consumers to express themselves. Designs that speak to the wearer, from gardening and cats to coffee and snarky sayings, are affordable and a fun way to let personality peek out. Bundle a pair of socks with a moisturizing body lotion, and you’ve created an easy gift set.

Highly Personal

Monogramming turns an ordinary item into a keepsake. Jewelry, tote bags, mugs and tumblers are natural ﬁts. Home décor that makes a statement, such as custom signs or personalized pillows, lets consumers bring their personality into their living spaces. Even stickers can be personalized with names, initials or phrases that resonate. If you can offer personalization options in your store or through a trusted partner, you give your customers a compelling reason to choose you over big-box competitors. Consider promoting turnaround times and simple ordering options so your customers feel conﬁdent buying, especially as gifting deadlines approach.

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TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

GIFTABLE

DRINKWARE Consumers have a wealth of choices in a category that is as much about function as it is about aesthetics.

Buying a new water bottle or travel tumbler? Retailers will drink to that. Drinkware is no longer just a vessel for daily beverages; it’s a form of self-expression. With the ubiquitous water bottle toted around by everyone from commuters to students, the opportunity to reach consumers with the latest drinkware styles goes beyond basic hydration. According to ASI’s 2026 Ad Impression Study, drinkware has become a go-to gift that has outpaced other consumer product categories. This report found that 41 percent of end users would be happy to receive a drinkware item over writing instruments, mobile power banks and other items. From fashionforward tumblers to functional everyday glasses, the drinkware market has something for everyone.

Put a Lid on It

Tumblers, cups and standard drinking glasses have undergone a major upgrade, starting right at the top — literally. Lids are leading the drinkware accessory trend, topping off water bottles, glass tumblers, mason jars and stemless wine glasses. What was once lauded for its travel-friendly, leak-proof design has since morphed into a feature for al fresco dining. Options range from standard metallic and eco-friendly bamboo designs to decorative lids adorned with leaves, ﬂowers and other greenery artwork. More elaborate lid styles, including foil tops and studded acrylic textures, are also garnering attention in fashionforward displays. Personalization, which has been deemed an important gift attribute among 54 percent of respondents in the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, has since trickled over into the drinkware category. Accessorizing drinkware with metal and glass straws makes for easy sipping and cleaning. Adding a touch of personality and whimsy are silicone straw topper charms in coordinating themes. For the younger consumer, water bottles are getting the soft 1 08 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Spoontiques, Inc. 800.225.5826. spoontiques.com.

“The opportunity to reach consumers with the latest drinkware styles goes beyond basic hydration.” treatment with novelty designs. Plush exterior cozies, available in animals, favorite foods and other playful personas, cleverly disguise removable, stainless-steel tumblers with waterproof lining. A gift with crossover merchandising potential, these cups work as well in the drinkware aisle as they do in the toy aisle.

Stainless-Steel Appeal

Despite all the glitz and glam in some of the latest drinkware designs, the demand for durable drinkware has not diminished. Stainless steel persists as the material of choice across the category, which includes travel mugs, water bottles and wine tumblers of all sizes — big and small. In a countertrend to the oversized tumbler, small insulated bottles sized for either a shot of espresso or a simple 8-ounce drink are gaining popularity. The smaller bottles also tap into the rising demand for mini items. Iridescent jewel tones of vibrant reds, purples and yellows provide pops of color amid basic black and gray containers. As consumers gravitate toward the next social media-inspired drinkware sensation, retailers should stay nimble and leave room on their shelves for more innovation in the burgeoning beverage container category.

TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

FRAMED

MOMENTS Consumers are in search of decorative frames that stylishly celebrate — and display — special memories.

A picture is worth a thousand words, so suspending those precious moments in time requires a special frame that speaks volumes. According to Cognitive Market Research, the $9.07 billion picture frame market is expected to reach $12.62 billion by 2033, yielding a nearly 5 percent annual growth that is prompting retailers to stay on top of emerging trends in a dynamic marketplace. Whether picking up a frame as a gift or as an upgrade to existing home décor, consumers look to this item as an easy yet effective way to communicate style and personality. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, decorative accents topped the list of home décor products respondents expected to buy, marked by 69 percent of Gen Zers, 61 percent of millennials, 61 percent of Gen Xers and 47 percent of baby boomers.

Picture Perfect

With varying tastes and preferences within these demographics, current picture frame styles offer something for everyone. Resin and metal frames remain evergreen choices, sporting sleek lines and sturdy construction that fit in just as well on an end table as they do in a home office workspace. Wood frames are also in vogue, particularly among consumers investing in eco-friendly products for the home. Cognitive Market Research’s latest data reveals an increased demand for recyclable frames made with nontoxic finishes and sustainable materials. Consumers with fur babies are favoring pet-themed frames, featuring phrases like “I Love My Dog” and “I Love My Cat,” along with a playful pawprint. Also on trend are special-occasion frames that commemorate events like preschool graduations. For the contemporary consumer, picture frames that can hold digital photos are also on trend. This style appeals to new parents and grandparents managing a revolving array of pictures that chronicle a child’s development. Last year, Circana reported that digital picture frames saw a 42 percent increase 1 10 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Malden International Designs. 800.426.3578. malden.com.

“Wall and collage frames that tie into a pictorial theme are a popular gift idea for new homeowners and ﬁrst-time apartment dwellers.” during Mother’s Day sales — something to keep in mind as retailers prepare for spring sales.

Curve Appeal

While geometric-shaped frames are a traditional pick for alloccasion gifting, designers are diving into scalloped edges and ruﬄes with a curvy feel. This fun yet classic border style adds a touch of softness. Decorative borders bedazzled with beads and other accents offer a sophisticated vibe in muted tones of soft pink, sage and cream. Special occasions call for a variety of picture frame options. Wall and collage frames that tie into a pictorial theme are a popular gift idea for new homeowners and ﬁrst-time apartment dwellers, while traditional silver and metallic choices are a favorite for weddings and anniversaries. Baby photo frames feature decorative elements that correlate with trending nursery themes, such as celestial motifs, zoo animals and woodland creatures, and are often inscribed with special sentiments.

Celebrate Life’s Moments

big and small

Thoughtful designs that turn memories into lasting keepsakes.

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TREND REPORT – GIFTABLES

GAME

NIGHT Consumers are choosing to stay in, using games as the source of entertainment for friends and family alike.

As consumers continue entertaining at home, the concept of game night has seen a major resurgence. They’re playing everything from family-friendly board games to card games ﬁlled with adult humor. In fact, according to a survey of 2,000 Americans conducted by Talker Research for Air Wick and published in the New York Post, 72 percent prefer staying in with friends versus a night out, and of those adults, 35 percent say game nights are their preferred occasion to host.

Mahjong Moments

It’s no secret that mahjong, a traditional Chinese tile-based game, is a large part of the game night push. According to the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), searches for “mahjong lessons” rose 819 percent from September 2024 to August 2025, and the rise is presenting refreshing options for retailers. For product inventory, mahjong is more than tile sets. Though it doesn’t hurt to stock some nice tile sets for new players (or more intricately detailed ones for the collectors), there are tons of accessories, too, that make great gifts for mahjong players. Versatile tile bags, cute tile racks and mahjong game mats can be stocked in a variety of colors and patterns for consumers to dress up their game tables the same way they dress up their dinner tables. Giftables for mahjong enthusiasts, like stationery pads, coffee mugs, cocktail napkins and ornaments, will continue to trend, too. Outside of stocking themed products, retailers can also host mahjong game nights with special shopping offers to boost sales.

Games for Everyone

The notion that board games are aimed at younger consumers is being dispelled as the adult games market has exploded over the last couple of years. This ties directly to consumers choosing to stay in with friends versus going out and looking for different 1 12 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

ellembee gift. 248.520.7467. ellembeegift.com.

“It’s no secret that mahjong, a traditional Chinese tile-based game, is a large part of the game night push.”

forms of entertainment. Classic games with fun, adult twists (think drinking games and adult humor) tug at the nostalgia trend that’s sweeping categories. Card games that encourage conversation and get-toknow-yous in playful fashion are also popular. For younger consumers, board and card games are still popular, but games that get players up and moving — like wearing silly headgear to accomplish a task or racing to draw before ink fades — are catching eyes.

More Than Just Games

A good game night is graded on its games, but you can’t ignore the way the occasion has trickled into décor. More and more companies are offering tailored décor lines ﬁlled with pillows, wall décor, trinket dishes and shelf sitters with designs inspired by mahjong, card suits, checkers and other game-night themes. Game night fans can deck out their playing space with these themed pieces year-round or pull them out just for the special game night occasion.

TREND REPORT – HOLIDAY

HOLIDAY

TABLETOP Three trends will be front and center this holiday season, helping hosts set the scene for guests.

For many families, the holidays boil down to a handful of hours spent gathered around the table. The turkey gets carved, the stories get retold and, for a brief window, everyone is in the same room at the same time. As an independent retailer, you have an opportunity to help your customers make that window a memorable one. According to the U.S. Travel Insights: Winter 2026 Travel report published by market research company Leger, fewer travelers have confirmed trips compared to last year, but interest remains strong. “Travelers are focusing on taking trips closer to home, seeking experiences that deliver connection and convenience without unnecessary complexity,” the report stated. That shift toward closer-to-home gatherings is good news for retailers. If fewer customers are boarding planes this winter, more of them are hosting — and every host wants their gathering to feel intentional, warm and worth the visit. Holiday tabletop trends for 2027 are all about delighting guests.

Minimalism meets tradition

The ﬁrst clear trend starts with crisp white decorative pieces. Think: place card holders, serving platters and centerpiece bases in clean, unadorned white. These pieces work as a neutral canvas, letting traditional holiday accent colors such as deep reds, evergreens and golds really pop. It’s a minimalism-meets-tradition approach that appeals to customers who want their table to feel festive without looking cluttered. White also has staying power on the shelf; it photographs beautifully and pairs with whatever color scheme a customer already has in mind, whether it be a playful theme with a few ﬁgural turkeys and Santas mixed in, or a more elevated look with trendy plaids and woodland berries.

Scandinavian style

Another look consumers are leaning into is European cozy, 1 14 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

nora ﬂeming. 630.231.2500. noraﬂeming.com.

“If fewer customers are boarding planes this winter, more of them are hosting — and every host wants their gathering to feel intentional, warm and worth the visit.” highlighted by warm metallics with a hygge-inspired, Nordic slant. Brushed brass candle holders, matte gold ﬂatware rests and softly glowing lantern-style centerpieces all speak to the unhurried mood customers are craving. This aesthetic rewards texture over shine with more of a warm glow rather than glitter.

Details that feel personal

Lastly, no matter how simple a tablescape may be, details can make it feel personal, so don’t overlook products that appear more customized. Monogrammed napkin rings, custom place cards, napkins with the host’s initial and small plate adornments with a guest’s initial or favorite holiday motif turn an ordinary seat into a gesture of thoughtfulness. These items tend to be impulse purchases, and they carry outsized emotional weight for the price point. These three different styles tell a similar story: a table that’s polished but not fussy, warm but not overwrought, and personal in a way that makes the time families spend together feel a little more special.

630.231.2500 • hello@norafleming.com

TREND REPORT – HOLIDAY

CHRISTMAS

ORNAMENTS From designs that make people laugh to those that realistically mimic a favorite food or hobby, ornaments add personality to the tree.

There’s no contesting that Christmas gifts and décor are mainstays on retailers’ seasonal shelves, and for good reason. The category consistently tops the charts of stores’ bestsellers and draws in customers for the pivotal fourth quarter. According to the 2026 Today’s Gift Retailer Survey, 88 percent of independent retailers carry holiday goods, with Christmas being the No. 1 holiday category they stock. Christmas ornaments, speciﬁcally, are among the top sellers in the holiday category. Consumers search for them year-round for both souvenirs and fourth-quarter decorating. According to the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 61 percent of consumers will buy Christmas ornaments in the coming year, making them the most sought-after category. Whether you’re a destination shop in a popular vacation spot or a local favorite, stocking Christmas ornaments that tap into the top trends and a bit of local ﬂair is a smart move. Here’s what’s trending in Christmas ornaments.

To Each Their Own

Accessories that speak to consumers’ unique tastes or interests continue to be popular, and ornaments that reflect the owner’s personality will continue to be in demand. Licensed ornaments help to reflect unique tastes, and ornaments created in partnership with popular bands, TV characters or even social media influencers will be top picks. Ornaments that mark a milestone, like a wedding, anniversary or baby’s first Christmas, also appeal to consumers’ desire to personalize their Christmas tree and cement special memories. As different hobbies like mahjong, gaming and birdwatching continue to rise, ornaments that reflect these unique interests will also gain in popularity. Food-themed ornaments will continue to be strong sellers, as well, whether designed after a sweet holiday treat or a quirky everyday favorite like ramen. Those ornaments that have lifelike details, like actual liquid inside a martini glass, will resonate the strongest with shoppers. 1 16 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Old World Christmas. 800.962.7669. oldworldchristmas.com.

“Popular animal motifs for 2027 include a variety of cat and dog breeds, especially the dachshund.”

Creature Craze

People have always had a strong connection to animals. Cats and dogs, especially, hold a special place in consumers’ hearts, and ornaments made to mimic these pets (and other adorable animals) do, too. Popular animal motifs for 2027 include a variety of cat and dog breeds, especially the dachshund, which Christmasworld trend experts have said will be the top Christmas icon for 2027. Pets in these ornaments are usually tangled in lights or holding candycanes for a festive twist. The capybara will also remain popular, as will quirkier choices derived from viral social media videos like those of Jimothy the Raccoon, Merlin the Soccer Duck or Punch the Japanese Macaque, all of which have captured the hearts of the masses. As farm-life motifs continue to gain in popularity for holiday décor, cows, chickens and pigs will remain popular choices for ornaments, as will festive iterations of the Highland cow.

TREND REPORT – HOLIDAY

HOLIDAY HOME

DÉCOR

Glad tidings aren’t only for Christmas, as consumers decorate for fall holidays with equal fervor.

Outfitting the home for fall and winter holidays starts early — a pattern that appears to begin long before the first leaf changes color. Last year, the National Retail Federation reported that nearly half (49 percent) of consumers began shopping for Halloween before October, as compared with 34 percent of shoppers 10 years prior. With the Summerween trend firmly in place and a short span between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season requires a steady stream of new décor that takes shoppers from ghosts and goblins to Santas and snowflakes without interruption.

Happy Haunting

Second only to Christmas, Halloween décor is topping consumers’ shopping lists and prompting them to open their wallets. The 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey revealed that respondents expect to spend an average of $66 for Halloween decorations. More than half of those consumers are Gen Z (64 percent) and millennials (60 percent) hosting Halloween parties. With All Hallows’ Eve falling on a Sunday, consumers are primed to celebrate throughout the weekend. Ever-present ghosts continue to pop up on home décor, in everything from decorative pillows and whimsical mugs to wooden cheese boards and votive candles. Ghosts are also making an appearance on front steps and porches, greeting partygoers via large light-up ﬁgures and plant stakes in rustic buckets. Not far behind Halloween is consumers’ increasing desire to bridge the gap between spooky season and Christmas. The same survey reported that consumers (though fewer than Halloween) expect to spend an average of $79 on fall/Thanksgiving décor in the coming year. Younger consumers aren’t the only ones planning to create a festive fall atmosphere in the home; the survey revealed broad interest across all age groups, with 59 percent of millennials leading the pack, followed by 56 percent 1 18 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Ragon House. 877.874.3750. ragonhouse.com.

“The unofficial kickoff to the holiday season requires a steady stream of new décor that takes shoppers from ghosts and goblins to Santas and snowflakes without interruption.” of Gen Z shoppers, 55 percent of Gen Xers and 48 percent of baby boomers. On trend is fall décor that isn’t tied into just one holiday, allowing for longer display time at retail. Scented candles with pumpkin spice notes are a favorite for the seasonal beverageloving consumer, while metallic pumpkins and colored glass gourds add polish to contemporary homes. Front doors decked out with floral pumpkin wreaths welcome guests, as do doormats adorned with autumn leaf prints.

Countdown to a Colorful Christmas

With less than four weeks to segue from Thanksgiving into full Christmas buying mode, retailers are wise to spotlight the latest seasonal sensations. A sneak peek at a trend report by Christmasworld shows that a broad color spectrum, highlighted by soft, natural colors (whites and sky blues); pairings of black/ white, warm brown/wood, and green/oxblood red; and muted ﬂoral tones of peony, lilac and rose, will be popular for 2027.

Elevate your

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TREND REPORT – HOLIDAY

CHRISTMAS

DECORATIONS Consumers are seeking timeless décor that can hold up for years to come.

Christmas is one of those categories that will always have a place on retailers’ shelves. After all, 88 percent of independent retailers carry holiday goods, according to the 2026 Today’s Gift Retailer Survey, and Christmas is the top holiday for which they stock their shelves. When choosing which products to stock each year, it’s important to keep in mind the themes consumers are gravitating toward. Traditional décor will always be a mainstay, albeit with updates, while new themes emerge (or re-emerge) every couple of years. Christmasworld experts predict that elevated, luxurious designs and tactile storytelling will play a large role in the 2027 trends.

Don’t Mess With Tradition

Traditional décor is in the spotlight as consumers yearn for nostalgia. Rich reds and greens paired with metallics, and elegant blues paired with silver and white, are familiar, calming and comforting. Jolly Santas and whimsical snowmen, along with other classic motifs like candy canes, reindeer and gingerbread, are always in style, too. Classic color palettes and vintage motifs aren’t the only traditional options. Rustic holiday décor featuring the classic old red truck continues to stick around. New for this year is an uptick in holiday Highland cows and other festive barnyard animals that pair well with farmhouse vibes. Several types of cows, including beef cattle and dairy cows, as well as pigs and chickens, are the stars of the trending countrythemed Christmas décor.

Light It Up

Christmas lights have long dazzled the exterior of homes during the holiday season, but consumers are bringing more lights inside than ever before. Warm glows from Christmas villages and lanterns depicting 1 20 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Kurt S. Adler. 212.924.0900. kurtadler.com.

“Christmasworld experts predict that elevated, luxurious designs and tactile storytelling will play a large role in the 2027 trends.” snowy scenes and other seasonal motifs help create cozy vibes. Candles in seasonal scents — think pine, warm gingerbread or sugar cookies — can also fall into this category. Consumers are often drawn to light-up décor items that feature LED lights for a safer display, allowing them to keep the lighted elements on for longer periods of time without worrying about external heat. Décor that has remote-control capabilities for easy off and on is also a plus.

Countdown Fun

The Advent calendar has been around for a while, but consumers are rediscovering the fun of a unique Christmas countdown. The demand for advent calendars has greatly increased over the past couple of years, and it doesn’t appear to be slowing down. The opportunities for niche countdowns are endless: gourmet countdowns featuring sweet treats, seasonal spices or holiday drinks; fashion-forward countdowns with new accessories, jewelry pieces or socks; and even self-care countdowns with a variety of seasonally scented bath-and-body products.

The America250 word mark and logo are trademarks owned by the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and any use of such marks by Kurt S. Adler is under license.

TREND REPORT – KIDS

PLUSH

TOYS Soft characters have become so popular with consumers of any age that there are now more varieties than ever.

No toy has crossed the age barrier like plush toys. Perfect for babies, kids, tweens and even adults, plush characters are fun, snuggly and comforting. With such broad appeal, makers are investing even more resources into the category, with new accessories, seasonal characters and plush decorations getting added to the mix. From the classic cow to creepy Halloween cuties, here’s what’s trending for 2027.

Nothing Beats a Classic

Perfect for pretend play for littles or as a comforting pal for any age, plush animals that mimic the animals we love in real life have long been popular. Plush puppies and kittens act as pretend pets for those without the real thing, while bears, tigers and other wild animals bring home the sense of adventure from the zoo. Dogs, especially, have been having their moment in the spotlight. While many breeds are popular, like the French bulldog, and golden and Labrador retrievers, the dachshund is quickly gaining in popularity thanks to its charming personality and funny “wiener” shape. More unusual animals like the capybara and elephant seal will continue to capture hearts (as they have on social media), as will whimsical creatures like dragons, unicorns and dinosaurs.

From the barn to the sky

When it comes to cute designs, the cow has quickly taken over. From a classic dairy cow to a ﬂuffy Highland cow, these farm animals are having their moment in the spotlight. As farminspired Christmas decorations and accessories continue to gain in popularity, the cow, as well as the chicken, will see even more demand in the plush world in the year to come. Also popular for 2027 will be plush birds of all varieties. Colorful and whimsical when they take ﬂight, birds are trending as birdwatching in general becomes more popular with younger 1 22 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

DOUGLAS Company, Inc. 800.992.9002. douglascuddletoy.com.

“Birds are trending as birdwatching in general becomes more popular with younger generations.”

generations. Kids’ binoculars for birdwatching are even trending up along with the hobby.

New Plush Categories

Plush toys aren’t limited to stuffed animals anymore. Now the plush craze has expanded into new categories, like fashion accessories and holiday decorations. Plush-toy keychains and charms have been gaining in popularity over the last year, as part of the rising trend of charm accessories, and aren’t showing signs of slowing down. Plush backpacks and purses will also be popular with young consumers as they double as a playful pal and functional accessory. Plush holiday decorations, like a Christmas tree with removable ornaments, as well as seasonal and holiday plush characters, whether a plush Halloween mocktail or gator for Mardi Gras, are the latest extension of the plush category. For 2027, expect to see even more plush accessories and decorations on the scene that appeal to the entire family.

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1-800-992-9002

orders@douglastoys.com

TREND REPORT – KIDS

BABY

GIFTING Plush pals, baby blankets and other organic soft goods are trending with today’s parents.

There’s no easier excuse for gift giving than to welcome a new arrival, and the marketplace reﬂects this trend. Despite declining U.S. birth rates, the share of consumers shopping for baby gifts holds steady; 24 percent of respondents in the 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey plan to purchase a baby gift, led by Gen Z respondents at 31 percent. Baby gifts represent an evergreen category for specialty retailers, with opportunities that range from baby showers and welcome-home gifts to ﬁrst birthdays and holidays. Appealing to a diverse demographic of gift givers, including new parents and grandparents, helps stores broaden their inventory with a mix of traditional and on-trend items that meet a variety of tastes.

Cuddle Time

Blankets, loveys and other soft goods are a popular choice, topping baby gift registries and wish lists for little ones. Plush pals that can serve as a child’s first friend continue to resonate with survey respondents, 23 percent of whom plan to buy a soft toy for an infant in the coming year. While bunnies, bears and cats continue to reign supreme, dogs are having their day as of late, evidenced by the influx of plush puppies and other playful pooches. Man’s best friend isn’t the only animal that has found a home in baby plush. According to a recent Faire Independent Retail Report, cows are “moo-ving” onto store shelves, showing up as loveys, teether rattles, crinkle teethers and blankets. Traditional barnyard black-and-white cow-themed plush is finding company with the more rustic Highland breed, which complements the contemporary nursery palette of muted tones.

A Little Bit Country

Taking a cue from current fashion and home décor trends, baby apparel, bedding and other textiles are sporting a pastoral vibe for the coming season. Cottagecore and granny chic styles have 1 24 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Mary Meyer Toys. 800.451.4386. marymeyer.com.

“Appealing to a diverse demographic of gift givers, including new parents and grandparents, helps stores broaden their inventory with a mix of traditional and on-trend items that meet a variety of tastes.” influenced a return to retro designs, from embroidered baby sweaters and hand-smocked baby girl dresses to floral patterns on onesies and infant tees. As more millennials and Gen Zers become first-time parents, their desire for nostalgic properties and vintage brands is showing up in their babies’ wardrobes. Rompers and overalls featuring ’80s and ’90s cartoon characters are a universal favorite, as are denim baby leggings paired with Peter Pan collar shirts and onesies. With an eye toward sustainability, consumers are also in the market for environmentally friendly baby gifts. Green-minded shoppers are gravitating toward nursery and room accessories fashioned from natural woods and fibers, including organic cotton and recycled materials. Packaging that touts company giveback programs speaks to young parents keeping future generations in mind, while effectively communicating the brands’ charitable missions to gift givers and recipients.

800-451-4387

marymeyer.com

OneCoast Showroom #1800 Floor 18, Bld 2 Atlanta AmericasMart

OneCoast Showroom #180 World Trade Center Dallas

TREND REPORT – KIDS

BABY

KEEPSAKES Presents with permanence are popular for commemorating a child’s ﬁrst year.

Milestone moments in a child’s life are something to treasure, especially during the ﬁrst year. Whether it’s shaking a rattle or drinking from a cup, each instance is ripe for memory-making when captured in a commemorative gift. Specialty retailers stocking baby keepsakes can enhance their inventory with both classic and contemporary gifts that chronicle all the precious events in a new baby’s life.

Pregnant Pause

A decline in U.S. birth rates over the past several years may influence how stores tailor their product selection. According to the latest data from market research firm Circana, the juvenile-products industry experienced a 4 percent dip in retail sales over the past year, with nursery furniture and feeding products taking the biggest hit. As consumers think outside traditional baby gear and look to more personalized products for welcoming new arrivals, retailers that specialize in custom items can appeal to today’s gift givers. Personalization is an important attribute when buying for baby, particularly among younger generations. The 2027 Gift Book Consumer Survey shows that this factor weighs heavily for 70 percent of Gen Z shoppers. On the fashion front, monogrammed baby cardigans and one-piece outfits serve as special additions to a child’s wardrobe. Also on trend are cable-knit blankets hand-stitched with a child’s initials, along with nursery wall hangings that feature birth statistics such as length, weight and time of delivery. Marking a child’s first year also means taking plenty of photographs to chronicle month-to-month growth and development. Picture frames remain a perennial favorite among gift givers and recipients not only for their practicality, but also for their giftability. Sophisticated styles with velvet backings and decorative accents, packaged in a sturdy box, make for instant gift giving. 1 26 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

Salisbury, Inc. 800.824.4708. salisburyinc.net.

“While contemporary keepsakes are a popular pick for the trend-conscious consumer, traditional heirloom baby gifts remain a staple among shoppers.”

Silver Linings

While contemporary keepsakes are a popular pick for the trend-conscious consumer, traditional heirloom baby gifts remain a staple among shoppers. Engravable silver baby cups, bowls and spoons transform mealtime into a memory-making opportunity, while keepsake boxes for ﬁrst curls and baby teeth preserve precious reminders for years to come. For baptisms and christenings, silver cross ornaments, jewel boxes and Bible bookmarks are a universal choice among godparents and grandparents for welcoming baby into the religious community. While standalone items remain strong sellers, prepackaged sets that encompass themed items elevate the gift-giving experience. Speaking of gift sets, a whopping 70 percent of this year’s survey respondents have purchased these items. As more consumers concentrate on perceived value in sales, retailers that update their keepsake offerings with a variety of options can satisfy the cost-conscious consumer in the coming year.

Heirloom Gifts for Life’s First Moments C e le b r ate n ew b eg i nni ng s wi th ha ndc raf ted b a by g i f ts f rom Sal isbury. Fro m s i lve r c u ps a nd rattles to eng raved keepsa kes, ea c h pi ece is mad e wi th c a re a nd desi g ned to b e c heri shed for g ene ratio n s.

(800) 824-4708

SALISBURYINC.NET

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Market Calendar October – November 2026

OCTOBER 4-7 MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.

Minneapolis Gift, Home, Apparel & Accessory Show Minneapolis Mart mplsmart.com

4-7

SAVANNAH, GA.

5-6

CHICAGO

5-6

SEATTLE, WASH.

6-9 6-9 6-9

GHTA Annual Conference DeSoto Hotel giftandhome.org/conference

MIX Apparel & Gift Show, Contemporary Edition MIX Chicago Mart silverliningshows.com

Fall Buying Week Seattle Mart seattlemart.com

NEW YORK, N.Y. New York Tabletop Show 41 Madison tabletopassociationinc.com

LAS VEGAS Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall lvsouvenirshow.com

ATLANTA Atlanta Apparel AmericasMart atlanta-apparel.com

12-14

LOS ANGELES

12-14

LOS ANGELES

LA Market Week & LA Kids Market California Market Center californiamarketcenter.com

Fall Market The Reef lamart.com

1 28 - G IFT S & DEC OR ATI V E AC C E S S ORIE S - OC TOB E R 2026

17-21

HIGH POINT, N.C.

20-23

DALLAS

High Point Market IHFC Market Square highpointmarket.org

Apparel & Accessories Market Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com

NOVEMBER 2-3 JACKSON, MICH.

Michigan Women’s Wear Market American 1 Event Center silverliningshows.com

4-7 9-11

GATLINBURG, TENN. Smoky Mountain Gift Show Gatlinburg Convention Center smokymtngiftshow.com

ATLANTA Fall Cash & Carry AmericasMart americasmart.com

13-15

GATLINBURG, TENN.

15-17

OCEAN CITY, MD.

16-20

ORLANDO, FLA.

Stocking Stuffer Expo Gatlinburg Convention Center nortonshows.com

Ocean City Resort Gift Expo Roland E. Powell Convention Center oceancitygiftshow.com

IAAPA Expo Orange County Convention Center iaapa.org

Note: In most cases, shows are open to the trade only. Dates listed are provided by show managements. Before traveling to an event, however, please verify the particulars with the organizer by visiting the website.

Market Calendar 2027 At a Glance

JANUARY 6-12 DALLAS

Total Home & Gift Market Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com

12-17

ATLANTA

16-18

PARIS, FRANCE

24-28

LAS VEGAS

Atlanta Market AmericasMart atlantamarket.com

Shoppe Object Paris Porte de Versailles shoppeobject.com

Winter Market World Market Center lasvegasmarket.com

APRIL 6-9 NEW YORK, N.Y.

New York Tabletop Show 41 Madison tabletopassociationinc.com

JUNE 23-29 DALLAS

Total Home & Gift Market Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com

JULY 13-18 ATLANTA

Atlanta Market AmericasMart atlantamarket.com

JAN. 31 NEW YORK, N.Y. -FEB. 2 FEBRUARY 7-9 NEW YORK, N.Y.

25-29

20-23

SEPTEMBER 21-24 NEW YORK, N.Y.

NY Now Jacob K. Javits Center nynow.com

Shoppe Object The Starrett-Lehigh Building shoppeobject.com

NEW YORK, N.Y. Toy Fair Jacob K. Javits Center toyfairny.com

MARCH 9-11 CHICAGO

LAS VEGAS Summer Market World Market Center lasvegasmarket.com

AUGUST 8-10 NEW YORK, N.Y.

NY Now Jacob K. Javits Center nynow.com

New York Tabletop Show 41 Madison tabletopassociationinc.com

The Inspired Home Show McCormick Place theinspiredhomeshow.com Editor’s note: This list was compiled in September 2026. Before traveling to an event, please verify the particulars with the organizer by visiting the website.

G I F T S & D ECO R AT I V E ACCE SSO R I ES - OC T OBE R 2026 129

ENDCAP

2027 GIFT BOOK CONSUMER SURVEY

13 116

WARMERS & MELTS

DRINKWARE

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS

108 42

WALL ART

Gifts & Decorative Accessories (ISSN 0016-9889) is published monthly except combined issue for February/March (11 issues per year) by Bridgetower Media, 7025 Albert Pick Rd, Greensboro, NC 27409. The standard Digital+Print subscription is $118.80 per year. Periodicals postage paid at GREENSBORO, NC 27498-9709, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Gifts & Decorative Accessories Subscription Services, 125 Schelter Rd. #350 Lincolnshire, IL 60069-3666 To order a new subscription go to: https//bit.ly/3h6eEHe or by mail: Gifts & Decorative Accessories, PO BOX 494, Lincolnshire, IL 60069-9813. To renew your subscription, change your address or manage your account go to: https://bit.ly/2renewGIFTS. You can also call us at 866-456-0405 or email us at gda@omeda.com. Posted under Canadian addresses to APC; PO Box 503, RPO West Bever Creek, Rich Hill ON L4B 4R6.

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A LIFESTYLE BRAND

Bloom Where You’re Seated

Vintage Chic

Soft ﬂorals and heritage patterns in a romantic palette, rooted in nostalgic charm with a timeless, collected feel. Shipping in December.