Emma Ledger - Contributing Editor
Want to know what the biggest trends for the year ahead look like? From the unlikely sport taking Gen Z by storm to Fashion’s favourite coat, the hottest outdoor upgrade to the must-have kitchen tech, here’s your guide to what we’re all going to be talking about in 2026.
Gaming
In the year that sees the gaming world release Resident Evil Requiem and Crimson Desert, as well as the long-awaited Grand Theft Auto 6, there’s never been a better time to buy a games console. Specifically, the much-anticipated new Steam Machine, a PC that allows you to play games on your TV. “We’ve seen huge growth in gaming,” says Steven Woodgate, head of technology at John Lewis. “Now people are returning to the work office, home offices are being converted into gaming rooms.” Meaning, 2026 is the time to be at the top of your game.
Duffle coats
The humble duffle coat has enjoyed a high-fashion update in recent times, thanks to the likes of Prada, Ralph Lauren and Victoria Beckham. Undeniably practical, with its cosy, thick fabric and roomy proportions, it’s a classically unisex design so browse both men's and women’s to find your perfect style; one of the bestselling pieces in our collaboration with LABRUM is the wool-blend Alpaca Duffle Coat. Paddington Bear really was on to something.
Golf fashion
Not only did 2025 see a 29 per cent increase in golfers, but the average age of players also dropped below 55 for the first time. So, now is the time to level up your on-course style (as well as your game). In 2026 we are expanding our range of golf clothing brands, which already includes Lyle & Scott, plus we have some exciting new launches online and in 12 John Lewis stores. Think: golf gear meets glamour. Ready to tee off?
Ice-cream machines
They used to be big, bulky and noisy, but next-generation ice cream machines are sleek, sophisticated additions to any kitchen worktop. A TikTok sensation, the arrival of the Ninja Creami transformed the market; sales of ice-cream machines have increased by 17 per cent in 2025 alone. Wellness is partly behind this rise in popularity, thanks to trends that use the machines to make protein-heavy ice creams or frozen smoothies. The love for all things frozen isn’t set to thaw anytime soon.
Ties
Smarter dressing is making a comeback, with tie sales up 16 per cent compared to last year. The widespread loosening of dress codes after Covid – when trainers and tracksuits became standard in offices – is seeing a backlash, with Gen Z especially keen on a smarter, moneyed aesthetic. “Ties have been on catwalks, often teamed with a shirt, fine gauge jumper or collegiate jacket,” says Beth Pettet, head of menswear at John Lewis. “Burgundy, cherry, cobalt and block colours are popular colours.”
AI glasses
Seamless, AI-driven tech will be big news in 2026; AI-enabled smart glasses are predicted to become the norm, truly breaking new ground for a future of hands-free, super-connected living. Designs such as Ray-Ban Meta Glasses can make great-quality calls, play music, take photos, create POV content, provide hands-free information through Meta AI, and even translate a foreign language in real time. Lightweight and stylish, it’s easy to see why people are now embracing the potential, and you can read our review on Meta’s shades here.
Outdoor kitchens
Demand for outdoor kitchens continues to soar, proving them to be a lasting trend rather than a fleeting fad. Big Green Eggs and Ooni pizza ovens are growing in popularity as they allow people to embrace outdoor cooking and elevated entertaining all year round – not just on warm summer days. In 2026 that’s set to increase with John Lewis launching the Bertha Oven, which is charcoal powered but fully enclosed, as well as cult favourite outdoor oven and grill, Kamado Joe. If you know, you know.
