Fringe frenzy: from runways to gardens – texture takes center stage
Forget minimalism. This spring/summer 2026 season, it's all about texture. And nowhere is that more evident than in the exuberant embrace of fringe. From the catwalks of Paris and Milan to the burgeoning world of Home décor, the playful trim is adding movement and personality to everything from sofas to sunshades.
A runway riot of swish and sway
Designers unleashed fringe in all its glory. Alexander McQueen showcased leather fringe, Stella McCartney opted for beaded accents, and Bottega Veneta experimented with fibreglass. Balenciaga brought a dramatic feathered touch, while Alaïa and Mugler explored silk and, surprisingly, deconstructed tweed at Chanel. This wasn't mere embellishment; fringe was used to amplify motion, inject drama, and explore the very properties of materials.
But the trend doesn't stop at haute couture. Interior designers are enthusiastically adopting fringe, finding it a way to soften hard lines and add a touch of bohemian charm. Lorenza Bozzoli’s Raffia Ottoman Pouf collection is a prime example of this shift.
Beyond the sofa: fringe finds new homes
The movement isn't limited to furniture. Dedar and Osborne & Little have released textiles featuring whiskery designs, allowing for more comprehensive fringing projects. Phillip Jeffries’ ‘Fringe Benefits’ wallcovering offers a bold alternative to traditional wallpaper, transforming walls into tactile canvases. Or consider threaded curtains – an elegant way to partition spaces, as demonstrated by a 2024 exhibition at the Technical University of Moldova.
Furniture is getting playful too. Maddux Creative’s swiveling 'Shimmy Stool' by Jo leGleud brilliantly utilizes fringe to enhance movement, adding a touch of humor to a simple form. And it’s not just footstools; cushions, rugs, and even unexpected accessories are embracing the trend.
Outdoor spaces are also feeling the fringe effect. A delicate fringe trim on a parasol or beach bag instantly evokes a sense of easy-breezy summer holidays. Palm Springs Daybeds and sun sails are embracing the trend, adding softness and movement to weather-resistant pieces.
For those who like to make a statement, House of Hackney’s lampshades are a maximalist dream. Exaggerated fringe cascades dramatically from the bottom edge, adding a touch of theatrical glamour.
The tactile and visual interest fringe provides is undeniable. It’s a welcome departure from sleek minimalism, offering a touch of whimsy and personality to any space. It's a playful rebellion against the expected.
The rise of fringe isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a statement about embracing texture, movement, and individuality. And in a world saturated with the same old, the unexpected is always the most captivating.