Cultural trend forecaster Mandy Lee has named 'merry-maxxing' as the big Christmas 2026 trend, according to experts at Etsy. The term, coined by Etsy, describes an 'act of defiance' against adulthood that is 'unapologetically maximalist'.
What is merry-maxxing?
The trend builds on the 'whimsy-maxxing' craze that swept social media over the summer, which saw people embracing colourful outfits, experimental make-up, and rainbow sprinkles on morning coffee. That sense of childhood wonder and creativity is set to continue into the festive season.
Francesca Perks, Etsy's UK guest trend editor, said: 'At this time of year, we're often told many traditions have to look a certain way: sleek, formulaic, and traditional. What's great to see this autumn/winter is that Brits are flipping the script and instead bringing genuine joy, creativity, and a heavy dose of personality back into the colder months. We're craving connection over perfection, human craft over mass-manufactured items, and a bit of pure whimsy.'
How to embrace the trend
The trend is about being creative, playful, and having fun, without needing to make sense to anyone else. Searches for bedazzled kits on Etsy in the UK have already risen by 218 per cent, and experts predict a bedazzled Yule log could go viral before December.
Perks advises against over-consumerism, suggesting people 'upgrade' items they already own. She recommends forgetting coordinated colour schemes and letting décor be 'a little more unexpected and completely personal'. She added: 'If an ornament doesn't "match" the rest of the tree but brings you genuine happiness, it's earned its spot. Layer different ornaments, fabrics and styles that you've collected over the years – the more colour and texture, the better!'
Being whimsical, not wasteful
The trend also comes with a caution about plastic waste, as most rhinestones, sequins, and stick-on gems are made of non-biodegradable plastics. Perks suggests opting for alternative materials like glass beads or metal studs, and upcycling items that will be kept long-term rather than single-use items.
For those buying new decorations, Perks recommends 'investing in meaningful and unique statement pieces' from independent makers. Etsy has highlighted Jess of FatPomPoms for pompom inspiration, JuliaShopGifts for festive beaded embroidery kits, and JazzlesBedazzles for bedazzled book covers including Fourth Wing and the ACOTAR series.
