Trend Hunter, the largest collection of cutting edge trends, delivers a list of the Top 20 consumer trends for 2010. While some of these may be questionable—honestly, how many consumers will be interested in “modern nomadic living”?—others offer insight into the culture and the minds of consumers.
One notable theme of this list is the still-struggling US economy. Nearly half of the trends listed relate in some way to the ongoing recession. From #20 (Tangible Personalization) to #1 (Next-Besting), it seems that even upscale urban trendsetters are adjusting their behaviors in light of the New Frugality.
DIY Health Care (#12) describes consumers looking for ways to tend to their own health and well-being without the need for a medical professional. The potential downsides of this are obvious (the return of snake-oil salesmen?), but it’s certainly understandable in light of the current health-care debate in the US.
Personalization is another theme. Many of the trends listed relate to consumers’ desire to stand out, to be unique, to feel as though the product choices they make are about them. Emotion-sensitive jewelry, playlists and phones that match your mood? The mood ring is back and upgraded for the 21st Century!
In closing, it might be good to think about #8—Simpletising. In a cluttered world, clarity and simplicity stand out -- something we could all keep in mind.
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