From Paris to Your Collection: Print Trends That Will Shape Swim & Activewear in 2026

Paris in September always buzzes with creativity. Designers, studios, and innovators gather for Première Vision and Paris Prints, two of the biggest events in the textile and surface design world. These shows set the tone for what’s next in fashion — from colours and fabrics to prints and textures.

This year, I couldn’t make it in person. But thanks to digital reports and insider insights, I’ve gathered the highlights for you — and more importantly, how they apply to swim and activewear prints. Because while it’s fun to know what’s trending, the real value comes in translating global ideas into collections that actually sell for small brands like yours.

Why Trade Show Trends Matter (Even If You Can’t Be There)

If you’re running a swim or activewear brand, it can feel like you’re constantly juggling: product development, marketing, logistics, customer service. Trend forecasting often falls to the bottom of the list.

But here’s the thing: being in tune with the direction the market is heading helps your brand stay fresh and relevant. Your customers might not know the names of trend themes from Paris — but they feel when a collection is current, and that’s what makes them buy.

That’s where I come in. My job as a textile & print designer is to keep my finger on the pulse of these fairs and filter the noise into clear, actionable creative directions for your brand.

The Three Big Themes from Paris

This season’s reports highlighted three major directions for Autumn/Winter 2026–27 — and each of them offers exciting possibilities for swim and activewear.

1. New Dynasties

Think heritage meets futurism. Prints are influenced by architecture, archives, and subcultures like punk or goth — but with a refined, modern edge. Metallic touches, brushed silvers, and bold pops of electric blue are leading the way.

– For swim & activewear: Imagine geometric or architectural motifs reimagined in bold, sleek lines. Or a classic floral, but outlined with a futuristic metallic accent. These prints bring a feeling of strength and edge — perfect for activewear that wants to project power and performance.

2. Ego-Eco

This theme blends wellbeing and eco-consciousness. It’s all about caring — for our bodies and the environment. Prints draw on biomimicry and natural forms: water ripples, foliage, organic textures. Colours are soft, calming, and translucent, creating a sense of comfort and restoration.

– For swim & activewear: Think about soothing, nature-inspired prints that still feel dynamic in movement. Ripple effects across swim fabrics, or leafy abstracts scaled to flow with the body. For eco-conscious brands, this is the perfect way to visually connect sustainability with style.

3. Territories of Expression

Personal storytelling and identity take center stage here. Prints look artisanal, imperfect, and deeply human — painterly brushstrokes, collage-like layers, cultural motifs. It’s about connection and individuality, not mass-market sameness.

– For swim & activewear: Imagine activewear sets with brushstroke textures that look hand-painted, or swimwear featuring motifs inspired by travel and culture. These designs feel authentic and unique, giving your customers a story to wear.

Why These Trends Matter for Small Brands

Here’s the real takeaway: you don’t have to chase every trend. In fact, trying to cover them all can dilute your collection. What matters is choosing the right thread of inspiration and translating it into a cohesive direction for your brand.

For example:

• If your brand is all about performance and empowerment → New Dynasties could give your prints a bold, futuristic edge.

• If your audience values wellness and sustainability → Ego-Eco motifs will resonate deeply.

• If your brand is lifestyle-driven and storytelling-focused → Territories of Expression gives you the chance to stand out with prints no one else has.

This is the magic of trade show insights: they’re not just abstract concepts — they’re tools to help you design collections that connect with your customers and move your business forward.

My Behind-the-Scenes Process

When I work with clients, I don’t just copy/paste what’s trending. Instead, I:

1. Research across shows, reports, and forecasting platforms.

2. Moodboard the most relevant themes for your brand.

3. Refine colours, motifs, and layouts to work with stretch fabrics and your brand’s unique identity.

4. Design a print collection that feels cohesive, market-ready, and unmistakably you.

This means you don’t have to stress about “what’s in” or wonder if your prints will feel dated. You can focus on your business, knowing your collection is ahead of the curve.

Ready to Bring Paris to Your Brand?

You didn’t have to hop on a plane to Paris this season — and honestly, you don’t need to. That’s my role: to absorb what’s happening globally and translate it into designs that work for your swim or activewear line.

If you’re ready for a collection that feels fresh, cohesive, and truly market-ready, let’s chat. Reach out today and let’s explore how these global print trends can transform your next launch.