by Mary Kinney
With spring around the corner in many parts of the world, earthy takes on old favorites like table linens in speckled robin’s egg patterns are starting to appear, while seasonal standbys like botanical prints, florals, and backyard activities make a welcome return. “Shoppers are finding inspiration in nature and all that it has to offer,” says Etsy Trend Expert Dayna Isom Johnson. “From springtime classics like cheerful florals and outdoor picnics to warm, woody details and Etsy’s color of the year, emerald green, this time of year is about refreshing our spaces, finding new grounding in nature, and revitalizing our lives with inspiring details.”
We’ve pored over Etsy search data, industry reporting, social media trends, and buyer insights to help you optimize your shop for spring and summer. Inside, find inspiration for updating your inventory, styling, and listing descriptions with a new season of shoppers in mind.
Table of contents
Occasion opportunities
Category insights
How to use this report
The insights here can inspire you to make updates both big and small. Optimize your shop for the upcoming season by:
- Getting ideas for new products.
- Expanding your potential customer base with products that appeal to a wider range of shoppers, like male buyers or customers in other countries. We’ve seen an increase in Etsy traffic from both male shoppers and shoppers in markets outside of the US in the last year.
- Updating your merchandising with on-trend styling by featuring relevant seasonal details in your shop graphics (like your Shop Banner), listing photos, and listing videos.
- Timing your inventory to take advantage of upticks in relevant searches and in advance of key occasions.
- Including seasonally relevant top-searched terms in your tags, titles, and item descriptions.
- Choosing which listings to promote through Etsy Ads.
Cross-category
We anticipate interest around these key themes in spring and summer of 2022. The year-over-year (YoY) increases below were calculated by comparing search volume from September to December 2021 to the same period of 2020.
Biophilia - Named for the inherent pull of humans toward nature, biophilia is blooming across categories as a design trend. Think: house plants, botanical prints, natural materials, and all things nature-inspired.
83% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing "plant lover gift"
Mood-boosting hues - Shoppers aren’t afraid of adding pops of color to their lives. Drawing influences from kaleidoscopes and playful interiors, bold color choices add a little lightness to everyday style.
Spring mainstays - As in recent years, florals are expected to bloom for the springtime, with garden party basics like outdoor furniture and pastels also on the rise.
5,474% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing "wooden outdoor furniture"
Graphic retro - Prints inspired by the ‘60s and ‘70s – especially floral patterns – are both bold and fun for this season. Nostalgic motifs like pared-down ‘60s daisies and ‘70s-inspired geometric shapes are trending across categories for mid-2022.
Elevated basics - From twists on business-casual clothing to upgrading the home bar with accessories, we’re seeing growing interest in modern, high-quality basics.
Occasions
We’re approaching a period packed with festivities. As you stock your occasion inventory, consider the popularity of personalized gifts across categories. “Personalized gift” is a top search in general and among male shoppers, often driving purchases like personalized necklaces and rings, tops and tees, and home decor such as sentimental art prints.
Easter
Falling on April 17 this year, Easter offers a sneak peek into the spring trends that follow, so consider how you can adopt these seasonal patterns to your inventory beyond the holiday.
Amped-up pastels - The trend toward embracing bolder colors is ringing true for Easter. While softer pastels will still be a mainstay, brighter tones of pinks, yellows, and purples are catching shopper’s eyes.
439% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “pastel decor”
Garden party glam - For those who are hosting gatherings this year, searches for elevated floral clothing and outdoor decor are expected to increase.
Soothing, natural textures - Folks are embracing organic elements for Easter, like speckled robin's eggs and dried floral arrangements. This trend is of particular interest to German Easter shoppers.
Bunny bonanza - Rabbit motifs full of springtime whimsy are making a comeback this year. For cards, wrapping paper, and Easter decor, bunnies and bunny ears are on the rise.
42% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “felt rabbit decoration”
Upcycled and crafty - In an effort to be more sustainable, shoppers are hoping to use multi-purpose materials for their Easter decor. Heirloom table linens, DIY origami candy boxes, and reusable baskets cater to this trend.
Mother's Day
While Mother's Day in the UK is on March 27, much of the world (including the US, Canada, and Germany) celebrates in May. Take a look at our previous report’s Mother’s Day trends, and consider these fresh ideas.
Clasped hands - This symbol of togetherness and love is expected to be key this Mother’s Day, especially in wall art and greeting cards.
Maternal forms - A Mother’s Day mainstay, silhouettes of pregnant bodies and pared down illustrations of mothers with children are growing in popularity.
Spa treatment - Soaps and lotions are often popular for Mother’s Day, but shoppers will be looking to pamper moms with extra high-quality bath goods this year. Consider luxe body butters, carefully crafted candles, artisan bath caddies, and more.
54% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “lotion candle”
Youthful designs - Child-like drawings and playful imagery are expected to shine this year, especially for new moms with wee ones.
Thoughtful tablescapes - Trayscaping, and the outdoor-friendly ‘picnic-scaping,’ is all about elevating the classic breakfast in bed to create a memorable dining experience at home. Think: carefully designed trays, personalized napkins, and vintage tea cups.
Father's Day
Father figures come from all walks of life, but this year, Father’s Day trends fit into two categories: playful or sophisticated. Like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day lands on different dates depending on the country: May 26 in Germany; June 19 in the US, UK, Canada, and France; and September 4 in Australia and New Zealand.
Personalized just for him - Show your customer you understand that every father is unique by offering personalization options. Adding engravings, customizable color options, and bespoke designs will make your inventory shine for gifting.
257% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “father day gift daughter”
Functional and graphic - Consider gifts that cater to the no-nonsense dad by being both stylish and practical. This trend ranges from water bottles sporting sharp, simple patterns to desk organizers made from unexpected materials.
Pleasure in the day-to-day - Items that add a playful touch to daily life are also interesting male shoppers. For example: a gym bag with a beloved child’s drawing printed on it, a keychain engraved with an inside joke, or a pint glass with uplifting graphics.
New hobbies, together - After so much time apart, buyers want to spend more quality time with their loved ones. Craft kits and other gifts that bring people together are key for this trend, especially easy projects and fresh, functional DIYs.
Natural materials - Products that draw on the richness and texture of the natural world are on the rise. Consider utilizing wood, cork, or leather materials within your Father’s Day inventory.
284% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “leather keychain personalize”
Category insights
Home and Living
The home remains the center of many people’s lives in 2022, and as the weather gets warmer in the Northern Hemisphere, many are looking to refresh their living spaces (indoor and outdoor) and spend more time outside. As some students graduate and move out on their own for the first time, the season is ripe with demand for meaningful housewarming gifts.
Rounded edges - In an expansion on the abstract shapes trend from 2021 and early this year, rounded shapes and curved edges are trending upward. Consider the ways these shapes can take the harshness away from the hard edges that make up our rooms and add some comfort and playfulness to the mix.
Bespoke pieces - Furniture that’s built for a buyer’s particular space is highly valuable right now, especially as people continue to create “broken” floor plans with bookcases forming walls, custom-built nook sanctuaries, and curtains used to partition a room.
Light and airy - After being cooped up inside for the winter, buyers are looking to create a sense of spaciousness with house plants, mirrors, and woodsy fragrances.
Statement makers - From creative storage solutions to accent rugs and bold lighting, shoppers are seeking to transform their spaces with statement pieces. For added intrigue, offer items that can be custom fit to capitalize on the bespoke trend.
167% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “tuft rug”
Elevated entertaining - Folks are looking to entertain more as the spring and summer seasons arrive, both indoors and outdoors whenever possible. In order to be less wasteful and add some class to these gatherings, shoppers are ditching their paper plates for luxe table settings and chic home bar accessories.
25% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “bar cart accessory”
Biophilic forms - This cross-category trend shines especially in the home and living space. Think: botanical patterns, dried flowers, and organic, sculptural elements. Consider adding texture reminiscent of that found in nature, like raw edges and ribbing, especially if your buyers are based in the UK.
40% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “ribbed vase”
Warm wood - This natural material is a standout for 2022, both in home accessories, like coasters, and larger statement pieces, like dining room sets. Wood with touches of amber hues are versatile enough to complement many shoppers’ spaces and bring a natural element into the mix.
Sustainable materials - Customers are growing more conscious about the materials used in the items in their homes. Fabrics like flax linen and hemp are on trend this season for their light and airy feel and their low environmental impact.
Japandi style - A home decor trend that combines pared down Japanese aesthetics with cozy Scandinavian vibes is making waves in the interior design community, especially in Germany.
975% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “japandi”
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Clothing
This season, the clothing category is all about extremes: from oversized sweaters to bodycon cropped tops, or from soothing coastal style to highlighter-inspired color blocking. Think about who your customers are and where on the spectrum they might fall. Are they looking for something soothing and simple, bright and elaborate, or a little of both?
Nautical influence - As the days get longer in the Northern Hemisphere, many may relish the thought of laying on the beach or going sailing. Coastal wear featuring sailor stripes, light linens, and nautical color palettes is expected to attract shoppers whether they’re planning a relaxing staycation or actually spending a week at sea.
57% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “wide leg linen pants”
Oversized everything - Those looking to stay in their comfort zones are interested in expanding their collection of wide-legged pants, slouchy sweaters, oversized blazers, and tops with billowy sleeves.
86% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “puff sleeve dress”
Cropped tops - An easy complement to a wide-legged pant, cropped tops are on the rise for spring. Consider styles like bodycon and crochet tops to capture the ‘90s and y2k nostalgia.
1,800% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “crop tops y2k”
Non-traditional businesswear - Update early 2022’s “business casual with a twist” trend for the warmer months. Consider adding structured cut-outs, offering bright-colored suits, and reinterpreting work-friendly staples in lighter fabrics like linen and jersey.
Highlighter party - Mood-boosting hues are being taken to the extreme for those looking to enjoy a night out on the town. Shoppers interested in taking risks with their party wear could gravitate towards neon separates and bold color blocking.
Pleated skirts - A callback to nostalgic prep school looks, pleated skirts are expected to make a comeback. This style can be a fun way to experiment with color and pattern, so consider offering bold choices, pastels, plaids, and florals to the mix.
Quilted textiles - A reverence for old things like reclaimed quilts continues to grow. Especially in Germany, interest in clothing with quilted textiles and embroidery is expected to rise.
44% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “quilt jacket”
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Jewelry & Accessories
This category remains largely dominated by ‘90s and Y2K nostalgia. Shoppers are using expressive jewelry and accessories as ways to experiment and accent their wardrobe, even when their clothing choices might be more pared down.
Pops of color - An extension of the mood-boosting hues trend, jewelry and accessories that bring bold colors into an otherwise basic outfit are expected to attract shoppers.
Barrettes and bandanas - ‘90s-inspired plastic barrettes are picking up in popularity, while printed bandanas worn as hair accessories or neckerchief style are also on the rise.
208% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “barrette clip”
Beaded beauties - Recalling memories of making friendship bracelets and lanyards at summer camp, beaded bracelets and necklaces are attracting shoppers of all ages, but especially those in Gen Z.
139% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “friendship bracelet custom”
Maximalist accessorizing - Fashionistas are adopting a “more is more” approach when it comes to accessories. Stacked rings, multi-piercing earrings, layered bags, and multiple pins in the hair are key examples of this trend.
Accent belts - Best paired with the oversized clothing trend, accent belts can add structure to an otherwise shapeless outfit. TikTok influencers are looking to early ‘00s styles for bulky belts and to ‘80s and ‘90s aesthetics for punky looks.
24% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “wide leather belt”
Mis-matched earrings - Embracing asymmetry, shoppers are pairing dainty and elegant earrings with large, statement pieces. This is a trend we are seeing globally, but is particularly popular in the UK.
Polished glass - TikTokers have become mesmerized with the process of making polished glass, and the soft quality of the colors pairs nicely with the pastel trend that has been on the rise since 2021. Consider this trend for beads or pendants.
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Paper & Party Supplies
This time of year brings multiple occasions for the Paper & Party Supplies category. Between Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduation season, fun-loving and soothing spring images are on the rise.
Focus on faces - An easy way to make your paper and party supplies more playful and expressive, simple faces and silhouettes can be artfully abstract or bold and graphic.
Botanicals in bloom - Florals have always been a standby for springtime, and this year is no different. From pared down, graphic daisies for Gen Z to delicate, intricate florals for self-defined “grandmillenials,” you can’t go wrong with fresh flowers.
28% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “flower greeting card”
Graduation in gear - As graduation season approaches, people want to show their pride and congratulate the new grads in their lives with cheerful cards and stationery.
42% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “graduation cake topper”
Fried eggs - A new take on the Easter egg, this social media trend is a great choice for cards and wrapping paper into summer and beyond.
Finance journaling - With many people prioritizing financial wellness and budgeting in 2022, finance journals are taking off as an organizational tool and manifestation practice.
Strawberries - A traditional fruit for summertime picnics, strawberries are appearing in cheerful prints across stationery, cards, and outdoor parties this season.
Clouds and mountains - Continuing the nature-inspired trend, soothing clouds and mountain graphics are on the rise. These designs can be playful, fluffy clouds or earthier watercolor mountainscapes.
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Craft Supplies & Tools
As more and more people turn to crafting as a way to spend their time, the maker community is growing. From biophilic DIYs to calming crochet projects, shoppers are embracing projects that offer mindful moments and playful escape.
Beaded jewelry - Gen Z in particular is seeing a revitalization of the friendship bracelet trend, but beaded chokers and bracelets are attracting customers of a broad age range. While stocking supplies, consider the ways crafters can personalize their work.
Quick-sew DIYs - Beginner sewers and busy crafters alike are looking for fast, easy-to-complete projects to get their hands dirty like a simple dress or a summer tote. This trend of accessible DIYs has gotten a lot of attention on TikTok, where the project can be explained in a few easy steps in under 60 seconds.
64% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “easy sewing pattern beginner”
Tufted and textured - Artfully tufted rugs in bold patterns are continuing to be popular for spring, and this tactile trend is continuing to expand throughout the home as wall hangings.
Biophilic crafting - People are embracing nature across many aspects of their lives, including crafting. Consider DIY activities that utilize plant matter like kokedama (a Japanese moss ball), terrariums, biospheres, and indoor gardens.
Mindful matters - With these past couple years bringing their fair share of stress for many, crafts that emphasize slowness and mindfulness continue to grow in popularity. Activities like embroidery, scrapbooking, and simple knitting and crocheting tutorials can help buyers strive for a calmer state of mind.
23% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “crochet pattern”
Granny square revival - Thanks in part to TikTok, crocheting has become a popular technique again. Go-to granny squares are being used for making clothing, tote bags, and, of course, blankets.
149% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “granny square cardigan pattern”
Stained glass - Playing with light and color, stained glass activities like DIY window ornaments and abstract wall art kits are catching the eyes of young crafters. To help attract shoppers who are eco-conscious, try utilizing reclaimed materials for these supplies.
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Weddings
After many postponed and rescheduled ceremonies, we could see a record number of weddings this year, especially for millennials. Wedding shoppers are prioritizing tying the knot sooner rather than later, and they’re looking to incorporate cheerful hues and feminine details throughout their big day.
Bridal bows - Bows on gowns, in hair, and on trains: This dainty and feminine touch is inspiring brides this season. Consider how these details can be added to wedding accessories, decor, and keepsakes.
144% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “bridal bow”
Regencycore - The return of a favorite 19th-century-inspired show has prompted a revival of this regal wedding trend. “Inspired by a sense of escapism, this trend is all about fairytale opulence, elegance, timeless romance and vintage-inspired luxury,” says Dayna.
124% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “pearl veil”
Flexible decor - After the last two years had couples making, moving, and canceling plans, planners could look to invest in wedding details that easily accommodate shifts in scheduling. Think: dried florals, season-neutral color palettes, and decor that will pop both indoors and outdoors.
‘60s-inspired - Swinging ‘60s styles are catching the eye of brides this season. Mini skirts, long lashes, and shoulder-length veils are on the rise.
21% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “short wedding dress”
Pops of color - This trend was introduced late last year and is expected to grow even more as the weather gets warmer in the Northern hemisphere. Bold color choices are touching both wedding attire and decor this season.
Personalized keepsakes - From wedding favors to gifts for the happy couple, shoppers are looking for heirloom-quality presents that feel unique to the newlyweds and their individual aesthetic.
Floral structures - Lovers of nature and colors continue gravitating toward large architectural elements using either fresh or dried flowers and organic matter, from a nuptial arch made out of woven twigs and flowers to wedding signage adorned with colorful blooms.
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Vintage
Vintage is a wide-ranging classification, and the good news is many shoppers are seeking out vintage items across categories as a means of minimizing waste. For clothing, the ‘90s remains a go-to, and mid-century modern and ‘70s aesthetics continue to dominate home decor. Vintage sellers, take a peek at the categories above in addition to the callouts below.
Vintage as sustainable - One of the most eco-friendly moves shoppers can make is buying used or vintage goods. Consider bolstering this messaging to attract customers who are hoping to move away from fast fashion.
Backyard weddings - With wedding plans still needing to remain somewhat flexible, backyard weddings featuring vintage materials—from once-loved outdoor furniture to secondhand gowns—are on the rise.
Goth accessories - Edgy accessories from the ‘80s and ‘90s goth subculture are gaining steam, especially for Gen Z shoppers. Consider curating platform shoes, lacey clothing, and studded jewelry with this aesthetic.
‘90s prep school vibes - Reminiscent of the old valley girl aesthetic, these preppy and colorful outfit choices are becoming popular again. All aspects of this look are trending, like plaid mini skirts and blazers, cropped button-ups, and hair accessories like headbands and barrettes.
Colored glass - TikTokers know that Depression glass continues to have its moment, though ‘60s- and ‘70s-era colored glassware are also in the mix, especially in amber and blue tones.
5,881% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing "colorful glassware"
Granny square chic - The crochet pattern has been around for over a century and had its heyday in the ‘70s, but a younger generation is now attracted to the wide color palette and versatility of the granny square, in both home decor and wardrobes. From traditional throws to totes with bamboo handles to cotton sweaters, this trend can be adapted for all seasons.
58% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “granny square”
Warm wood hues - Taking cues from the ‘60s and ‘70s, home decor trends have embraced wood and wood veneers typical of the mid-century modern era.
126% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “geometric wood wall art”
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