by Mary Kinney
While the days are still short and the weather still chilly in much of the Northern Hemisphere, spring is on the way—and with it comes fresh new trends, routines, and occasions. We anticipate that shoppers will continue to be mindful about their purchases, budgets, and impact, while also mixing and matching different eclectic styles, embracing the 2023 theme of duality.
To help you prepare your shop, we’re sharing our latest round of insights on the products shoppers could be searching for on Etsy next season. As with our previous Marketplace Insights Reports, we pored over industry reports, social trends, buyer market research, and Etsy search data to give you the tools you need to optimize your Etsy shop.
The year-over-year (YoY) increases below were calculated by comparing search volume on Etsy from September through December 2022 to the same period of 2021.
Table of Contents
How to use this report
The insights here can inspire you to make updates both big and small, from adding to your inventory to optimizing your titles and tags. Prep your shop for the upcoming season by:
- Getting ideas for new products.
- Brainstorming content ideas for your social media promotions.
- Updating your photos with on-trend styling.
- Refreshing your Shop Banner with seasonal details.
- Including seasonally relevant top-searched terms in your tags, titles, and descriptions.
- Timing your inventory to take advantage of upticks in relevant searches and in advance of key occasions.
- Choosing which listings to promote through Etsy Ads.
Gifting and occasions
From little-luxury gifting for all occasions to hosting Easter gatherings and summer picnic parties, shoppers are leading with the heart. And, while Mother's Day in the UK is on March 19, much of the world (including the US, Canada, and Germany) celebrates in May, so moms are going to be top-of-mind throughout the season.
Slow gifting
Increasingly popular amidst conversations about the impact of fast fashion, slow gifting emphasizes sustainability and meaning, rather than gifting for the sake of gifting. We anticipate shoppers will be looking for high-quality items, modern heirlooms, eco-friendly materials, unique secondhand and vintage finds, and personalized little luxuries.
943% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “wedding gift couple unique”
New rituals
Shoppers are continuing to spotlight wellness with their purchases, especially when it comes to gifting. Consider products that recipients can incorporate into their daily lives like fragrance diffusers, matcha bowls, and cozy slippers.
736% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “glass cup bamboo lid”
Outdoor chic
In our early 2023 report, we highlighted gorpcore, a high-fashion take on outdoorsy gear, and that trend is making its way into home decor. For housewarmings, summer hosts, and homebodies alike, shoppers are looking for high-end outdoor decor and furniture to spruce up any gathering.
89% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “porch decor idea”
Experiential play
Parents, teachers, and anyone looking to gift something for the kiddos will be prioritizing experiential, hands-on play like kitchen exploration kits, name puzzles, and wooden blocks. For older kids, toys and games that bolster social-emotional learning are a plus. Bonus points if these items are gender neutral, sustainable, and visually appealing on a playroom shelf.
52% YoY increase in searches on Etsy for “montessori toy”
All occasion cards
Cards and stationery are budget-friendly gifting opportunities to celebrate a loved one’s new job, accomplishments, and milestones. We’re expecting smaller “thinking of you” gifts to be of particular interest to shoppers.
38% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “printable birthday card”
DIY gifting opportunities
We mentioned that shoppers are leading with the heart, and DIY gifts can add a special touch that many are looking for while also providing options at a variety of prices. Consider DIYs for all levels of crafters and budgets including handmade card kits, origami and folded paper decor elements, and hand-sewn garments.
174% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “crochet pattern animal”
Graphic motifs
With the joy that comes with warmer seasons, shoppers are tapping into playful prints and motifs. Try incorporating summery themes such as cut-out letters, pastel gingham, and harvest-inspired images such as carrots, cabbages, and minimalist citrus cross-sections.
44% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “pink lemonade party”
Functional yet stylish
A trend that pairs well with the “new rituals” gifting mentioned above, beautiful-yet-practical pieces are on the rise. Think: Ceramic matchstick holders with built-in match strikes, textiles for summer picnics that can be used as a cozy throw come autumn.
84% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “ikebana vase”
Postpartum gifting
While some shoppers will be thinking of their own moms and grandmothers ahead of Mother’s Day, we’ve also noticed an increase in gifts specifically for postpartum moms. New mom essentials, gift baskets, and relaxation presents are sought out to help support loved ones through what many call the 4th trimester.
804% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “mom gift postpartum”
Nostalgic party themes
For birthday parties amongst millennials and Gen Z alike, shoppers are looking to incorporate fun, often-niche themes into their festivities. Graphic ‘90s-influenced banners and decorations are of particular interest.
95% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “‘90s theme party decoration”
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Decor trends
Spring and summer make way for the shift to outdoors and hosting opportunities. Shoppers are leaning into the duality of (sometimes opposing) styles and influences—think a mix of Parisian apartment style, cozy cottage vibes, and art gallery aesthetics.
First impressions
As spring and summer arrive, folks are refreshing their homes, with a particular focus on mudrooms, front porches, and entryways. For this trend, buyers are seeking out items that add personality and create a welcoming atmosphere, along with bespoke furniture that can accommodate tight entry spaces.
139% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “narrow entryway table”
Parisian apartment style
The crisp, romantic Paris interior style is going international. Consider vintage oil paintings (or printed reproductions), clean lines, gold and brass accents, multi-sized gilded mirrors, and soft color palettes that complement ivory-colored walls, carved moldings, and marble mantels.
18% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “sconce”
Museum gift shop
For some folks, the home is a place to showcase your incredible collection of interesting objects and tchotchkes from a life well-lived. This eclectic design style mimics the look and feel of an art museum gift shop and mixes vintage and modern pieces into a cohesive whole that’s full of life and personality. Try using this trend as a chance to review your inventory and take a few lifestyle shots of how various pieces could be styled together to evoke this aesthetic.
21% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “gallery wall set”
“Living” room designs
With warmer weather, folks will be opening their windows both literally and figuratively. More plants, beautiful planters and hangers with unglazed terracotta details, botanical designs, and nature-inspired pieces are entering shopper’s homes. This can also include vibrant zoo motifs and tropical prints with out-of-this-world color (especially in rooms for little ones), giving a magical and playful quality that adds brightness to the space.
110% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “leaf macrame wall hanging”
Soft minimalism
For shoppers seeking a pared down and modern look, a minimalist aesthetic with an emphasis on curved edges is on the rise. Consider soft pastels, matte textures, and simple silhouettes to tap into this trend.
48% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “ribbed pillar candle”
Solid as a rock
Reverence for stone materials continues to grow. In addition to marble, travertine, sandstone, alabaster, and limestone give a refined, earthy feel to any living space. This trend pairs particularly well with Parisian apartment and museum gift shop aesthetics, and can show up in all sizes, from alabaster candlesticks to vintage travertine coffee tables.
45% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “alabaster candle holder”
Artisanal and authentic
As sustainability and slow gifting come to the forefront of many shoppers’ minds, artisanal pieces that show evidence of the hand are on the rise. Think items like asymmetrical pottery, folk art, and tactile pieces, like tufted wall hangings. For handmade items, ask yourself: How does your craft and story come through in each listing?
40% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “handmade”
Country cottage
A vintage-inspired rustic look that evokes small rural towns and homes filled with heirlooms, this decor trend flaunts the stylings of floral wallpaper, cross-stitched patterns, and mix-and-match vintage plates and dinnerware that channel a 1970s cul-de-sac vibe.
127% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “vintage cocktail glasses”
Bowls for all occasions
Power hosts and influencers alike are ditching the standard dinner plate and opting for other options like pasta bowls and salad bowls for easy and tasteful plating.Some are opting to use bowls for organization in their entryways and dressing areas as well.
13% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “pottery bowl small”
Vintage woodsy details
Particularly ahead of Easter and other spring gatherings, shoppers will be looking for quaint details such as cabbage plates popular in the 90s and natural fibers to feature in both table settings and Easter baskets. Pair these tablescapes and scenes with dried flowers for added seasonal interest.
51% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “carrot wreath”
Styling small spaces
Whether they’re looking to furnish their first college apartment or simply live in a smaller home, shoppers are looking to fill their rooms as smartly as possible. Use your listing photos or a listing video to showcase how your multifunctional pieces, wall-mounted decor, and bespoke furniture can fit just right for these use cases.
50% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “college apartment decor”
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Style trends
Shoppers are embracing the push-pull between maximalism and minimalism, goth and ballet styles, and asymmetric bodycon outfits for night and loose linens for day.
Maximalist mixing
“Get ready with me” videos are still all the rage on social media, and trend-setters are playing with fun layers, even in warmer weather. Consider the ways an outfit can play with both modern and vintage pieces, add light layers in materials like tulle and mesh, and the creative ways your products can be worn together for maximalist joy.
136% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “mesh shorts”
Minimalist urbanwear
On the flip side of this maximalist styling, some shoppers are taking a more simplified approach, pulling inspiration from ‘90s hip-hop looks and pairing oversized basics with polished, elegant details. Vintage sports jackets, high-end athleticwear, and simple, chic jewelry are key pieces for this trend.
51% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “leather bomber jacket”
Tulle rules
Ruffles and lacy, feminine details add even more depth to the popular “balletcore” and lingerie outerwear that has been gracing runways and sidewalks alike. Plus, we’re seeing large tulle flourishes pop up in ‘80s-style weddings, which are also on the rise this year.
37% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “white tulle skirt”
Y2K-inspired whimsigoth
The dark and edgy goth aesthetic is coming back in style. Some shoppers are playing this straight, focusing on all-black attire with choker necklaces and clunky boots, but others are adding a playful touch in the social media sensation some are calling whimsigoth, named for its whimsical approach to goth outfits.
69,679% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “whimsigoth”
Vacation state of mind
Even if traveling isn’t on the docket this season, shoppers are taking inspiration from the island vibes in their closets. Think bralettes, matching sets, cut-out dresses, and capsule wardrobes that can easily shift from the office to the beach (while also keeping travel luggage light).
26% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “capsule wardrobe”
Beach beads and charm necklaces
As folks continue to dress for their inner child, the “kidcore” style has shifted more heavily into jewelry. Resin and glass beads and charm necklaces are on the mind amongst Gen Z shoppers especially, and charms shaped like nostalgic flowers, mushrooms, and animals are among the most coveted.
1,250% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “chunky resin earring”
Stone sensation
Marble has taken the home decor world by storm, and now jewelry is also getting in on the fun. From desert-inspired sandstone rings to warm swirling patterned beading, these stones add a regal touch and pair nicely with the loose, shapeless silhouettes that continue to pop up on social media and runways.
135% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “sandstone ring”
Fun with fringe
A flirty accent that can adorn any outfit or accessory, fringe isn’t just for cowboys anymore. Anticipated to be a particular hit among wedding dresses, this trend can be dressed up or down, so play with the ways your listing photos can demonstrate this versatility.
115% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “fringe purse crossbody”
Loose linens
We mentioned shapeless silhouettes as a trend for early 2023, and loose linen outfits and matching sets are the perfect extension of this for warmer weather. Highlight the airy details and variety of contexts appropriate for these pieces: From work-from-home casual Fridays to summer evening date night to afternoon grocery runs.
52% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “loose linen”
Personality purses
Etsy shoppers are loving accessorizing with purses that add a little zest to their outfits. From playful shapes to colorful crossbody bags to bedazzled and fringy handbags, we anticipate purses becoming a new focal point for buyers.
22% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “crossbody bag”
Gorpcore: Utility focus
A trend we flagged earlier this year, the gorpcore aesthetic is becoming more utility-centered as we head into peak outdoorsy time in the Northern Hemisphere. This style is an easy way to be inclusive and gender neutral, emphasizing cargo pants, deep pockets, carpenter jeans, slick-yet-sturdy jumpsuits, and other designs suited to a get-up-and-go mentality.
58% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “cargo pants”
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