We’ve officially made it through the first month of the year and I’m not going to lie, it feels like January has lasted for about 8 weeks! I am well and truly glad that we’re moving forward.

Here at YOURGB, we are already fully locked in, settling into the (very busy) rhythm of 2026, and our diaries are looking fruitful. But that got me thinking… As innovators and creative individuals who have our fingers on the pulse when it comes to new and upcoming trends, why don’t we have a crack at forecasting what’s in and what’s out for the year ahead?

A few weeks ago, I shared an office-wide “forecast” survey to see exactly what the YOURGB collective thinks 2026 will bring to the worlds of lifestyle, tech, and events. And here are the predictions…

WHAT’S IN: The 2026 Vibe Check 

Lifestyle: 2026 is looking like the year of “The Real.” We’re seeing a massive push-back against the hyper-polished world of AI in favor of raw authenticity.

• • Analog Tech: Think wired headphones, old-school digital cameras, and “dumb” phones for the weekend. We’re detaching from the constant ping of notifications. – Mary (Office and Finance Manager)

• • Sensory Experiences: “Scent stacking” is the new accessory! This is the art of combining multiple scented products -such as body washes, lotions, oils, and perfumes – to create a unique, personalized, and longer-lasting signature aroma – Ellie (Event Manager)

• • Personal touches: Handwritten notes on fabulous stationery are making a comeback. It’s all about the intention and effort! – Louis (Senior Event Designer)

• • Fashion Shifts: Skinny jeans are whispering about a comeback (you heard it here first), and Digital Wardrobes (AR mirrors and apps) will finally help us answer the “what do I wear?” struggle. – Sophie (Event Coordinator)

• • Junk Journaling: It’s all about low stakes creativity. The ultimate antidote to digital burnout. It’s the art of turning “scraps” – think old maps, ticket stubs, and vintage envelopes – into handmade, mixed-media journals. It’s sustainable, totally low-pressure, and a much-needed therapeutic outlet for those of us who want to document memories without the “perfection” of a standard diary. – Jillian (Digital and Events Coordinator) 

In Events: Immersive, Intimate, and Intentional

The “bigger is better” era is over. 2026 is all about Quality over Quantity.

• • True Immersion: We’re talking 3D mapping, laser shows, and displays where you can literally “touch” the music. If it doesn’t create an emotional response, it’s not doing its job. – Katie (Senior Accounts and Relationship Manager)

• • Hyper-Personalisation: Highly curated, small-scale events that focus on brand touchpoints rather than guest count. – Louis (Senior Event Designer)

• • Radical Sustainability: “Green events” are no longer a “nice-to-have.” Zero-waste catering, carbon-neutral venues, and responsibly sourced theatrical draping are the new standard. – Sophie (Event Coordinator)

• • Wellness & Connection: Events that prioritise connection over packed agendas. This includes “stranger-friendly” formats (like coffee shop chats) and wellness-focused elements. – Gilly (CEO)

WHAT’S OUT: Let’s Leave These in 2025

It’s time to say goodbye to the trends that have overstayed their welcome, according to the YOURGB team…

• • The Brow Obsession: Laminated eyebrows and “eyebrowscaping” have had their decade. It’s time to give the brows a break.

• • Bad Mullets: Let’s face it, not everyone can pull them off.

• • Social Media Fatigue: No more Boomerangs.

• • Flavor Faux-Pas: We’re done with “pistachio” that has no flavor, no color, and looks vaguely toxic. 

The Event Overhauls:

• • QR Code Overload: We’ve reached the limit. Let’s find a more elegant way to share info.

• • Generic Photobooths: If it’s just a pop-up wall for an “Instagram moment” without real interaction, it’s out.

• • “Fake” Immersion: Stop calling it immersive if it doesn’t actually involve the audience.

• • The Logistics: Virtual breakout spaces (give us face-to-face!)

• • Giveaways: The dreaded stress-ball giveaway.