Top Marketing Trends for 2026 (That Aren’t Just AI)
Written by Bel Danks-Woodley, Founder, DW&Co.
Yes — AI is changing everything. We get it. But while everyone’s talking about automation and algorithms, some of the most meaningful shifts in marketing are happening outside the AI hype cycle.
Here are the top marketing trends we’re watching for 2026 — no ChatGPT mentions required (well, maybe just this once).
1. The Rise of Realness
Audiences are tuning out polish and leaning into honesty.
2026 brands are dropping the overly curated perfection in favour of behind-the-scenes content, founder-led storytelling, and raw, real moments. Think:
Lo-fi videos that feel human
Honest captions (even if messy, but no spelling mistakes!)
Vulnerability that builds trust
Perfect is out. Relatable is in.
2. Purpose-Led Everything
Consumers — especially Gen Z and Gen Alpha — are choosing brands that stand for something.
Brands in 2026 will go beyond vague mission statements. They’ll show up for causes, communities, and the planet with real action, transparency, and accountability.
If your values don’t live beyond the ‘About Us’ page, it’s time to rethink.
3. Nostalgia Marketing Grows Up
From Y2K aesthetics to retro logos, nostalgia is everywhere — and it's evolving.
Smart brands are weaving in emotion-laced storytelling, vintage visuals, and cultural callbacks with a modern twist. It’s not about being stuck in the past — it’s about helping people feel something familiar.
Pro tip: Mix nostalgia with innovation to avoid feeling stale.
4. Search Isn’t Just Google Anymore
In 2026, people are searching TikTok, Pinterest, YouTube, even Reddit before they go near a traditional search engine.
That means:
Optimising for platform-specific search behaviours
Rethinking SEO beyond blog posts
Using keywords in short-form video captions and voice search prompts
Your search strategy needs to go wherever your audience is.
5. Long-Form Is Back (If It’s Worth It)
Short-form content still rules attention spans — but when something’s truly valuable, people are sticking around.
Think:
Deep-dive newsletters
Evergreen blog content
Longform video explainers
Podcasts with substance
Don’t be afraid to go long — just make sure it's worth your audience’s time.
6. Intimate-Scale Communities
Brands are ditching the faceless follower counts and focusing on niche communities.
Smaller, more engaged audiences in places like:
Private Instagram broadcast channels
WhatsApp groups
Curated email segments
Closed Facebook or Discord communities
It’s about depth, not just reach.
7. Playful Visual Identity
We’re seeing a move away from safe, muted minimalism to bold, expressive branding.
Expect to see more:
Layered type
Colour clashing
Organic layouts
Expressive motion graphics
Design that grabs attention — and lets brands feel more human.
Final Thoughts
2026 will reward brands that are bold, honest, human — and willing to zig when everyone else zags.
At DW&Co., we help brands cut through the noise and connect with their people in a way that’s memorable, strategic, and just a little unexpected. Curious what that might look like for you?
Let’s start a conversation.
