As the seasons shift and we welcome the warmer days of Spring/Summer 2026, print culture is ready to take centre stage. This season is all about bold expressions and grabbing attention, with designers showcasing an energising mix of florals, tartan, polka dots, and groovy retro prints on the runways. These diverse trends invite makers, artists, and fashion lovers alike to explore Contrado’s premium custom fabrics and products, ensuring that everyone can contribute to the creative conversation.
1. Florals: A Blossoming Revival
Florals are making a triumphant return, and they’re coming back bigger and bolder than ever. This season, we see a variety of floral styles—from macro blooms to painterly watercolour designs and intricate digital botanicals. The appeal lies not only in their classic beauty but also in their versatility.
For your custom creations, consider using these vibrant florals on:
- Fabric-by-the-metre for bespoke garments or home décor.
- Flowy summer dresses that dance effortlessly against the backdrop of a sun-drenched day.
- Lightweight scarves, adding a pop of colour to any outfit.
- Cushions that brighten up living spaces and provide a touch of nature indoors.
2. Tartan: Traditional Meets Modern
Step aside traditional plaid; there’s a new tartan in town. This SS26, we’re seeing unexpected colourways—neon hues, pastel shades, and striking monochrome patterns. Such modern interpretations breathe new life into an age-old fabric, challenging the old stereotypes and giving designers a fresh canvas to work with.
Embrace this evolution of tartan in your creations by considering:
- Structured garments that exude confidence and flair.
- Stylish tote bags that are both practical and on-trend.
- Home furnishings, such as seat covers or curtains, that blend tradition with contemporary vibes.
3. Polka Dots: Scaled Up and Down
This season’s polka dots are all about scale. From tiny, delicate dot prints to oversized, bold ones, the truth is that size matters in SS26. This playful print marries retro glamour with contemporary minimalism, making it suitable for a variety of styles.
How can you incorporate this trend? Consider polka dots for:
- Wrap dresses that flatter every figure and make a statement.
- Blouses that effortlessly transition from day to night.
- Swimwear fabric, offering a chic yet fun look for beach days.
4. Groovy/Retro Prints: An Expressive Surge
Get ready to channel your inner flower child! The groovy, retro prints reminiscent of the 70s are all about vibrant swirls, psychedelic waves, and abstract designs, making them the most expressive trend of SS26. This is the ideal opportunity to create statement pieces that reflect personality and flair.
Use these bold prints in your designs for:
- Eye-catching statement pieces that are bound to turn heads.
- Wall art that adds character and charm to any gallery wall.
- Upholstery fabric that can transform furniture into a striking centrepiece.
At Contrado, we understand that these trends can seamlessly integrate into your designs, aiding independent artists and makers in expanding their offerings. We offer a platform that enables designers to upload their own unique creations or utilise our tools to create distinctive products, suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to fulfil bulk orders for events or expand your brand’s inventory with custom pieces, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Dive into Contrado’s collection of premium prints and fabric-by-the-metre, and don’t miss out on your chance to create personalised products that reflect these vibrant SS26 trends. Plus, for first-time customers, enjoy a special 10% off your first order! Let’s embark on this creative journey together.