UNITEX-revised

TRENDS

Spring/Summer 2026

Louisa Smith x

Spring/Summer 2026 TRENDS

Louisa Smith is an international textile trend consultant who works with leading companies throughout the supply chain. Her knowledge of sustainable developments, along with her detailed research into what consumers will want in advance, gives companies a competitive edge.

“Once again, the UNITEX R&D team hasn’t disappointed. It has been a pleasure to select newly developed fabrics using the latest premium ingredients that complement the key trends for the global intimate apparel, activewear, swimwear, and outdoor markets for today’s demanding consumer.”

Louisa Smith

Textile Trend Consultant

TREND 01 - SS2026

E-MOTION

Movement doesn’t just enhance the consumer’s body’s motion; it also creates an emotional experience against the skin. Fabrics that offer power and protection by supporting the physical, enhancing comfort and performance, and protecting from the overall environment.

As health and fitness become a global must in sedentary times, the rise of movement is essential, as sports don’t just trigger physical fitness and aptitude but also keep mental fitness at a healthy level. Stoicism and strength to this trend conflict with lightweight fabrics and is deceptive of the actual offering of robust core stability.

UNITEX X LOUISA SMITH

CONSUMER ATTITUDE

Motion is at the heart of this trend as consumers pick up the pace that has been woefully lacking, especially amongst the younger generation. It is time for digital natives to look up and forward, move away from the handheld screen, and experience physical sports and activities.

The emotional aspect of this trend for consumers comes through communication. Traditional social media channels and apps remain pertinent, but this leads to a more social and physical delivery, as running clubs, meet-ups, and classes reconnect consumers on a human-to-human (H2H) level in sharing the same ambition and end goal. Brands can also drive this connection through value-driven technology that engages their customers to a whole new level—a new ‘phygital’ connection.

CREATIVE COMMUNICATION

“Stride, swing, run, or cycle, whatever your motion, this trend from Unitex has you covered”

SOCIAL

DIGITAL HOOKUP

CONNECTIVITY

3DIMENSIONAL

CONSTRUCTION

GLEAMING

SURFACES

BRUSHED COMFORT

COMFORTABLE

CORE STABILITY

COOL TOUCH

MOISTURE MANAGEMENT

ANTI-ODOR UV+

MATERIAL INNOVATION

SMOOTH AND SOOTHING

COMPRESSION

» Nylon comes to the forefront, offering warp knits that lock and release in a second skin level of protection.

» Comfortable core stability and compression, moving and breathing with a cool touch.

» For outdoor activities, UV+ is essential, with excellent touch, moisture management, anti-bacterial, and quick drying.

» Synthetics range from bio-based, post-consumer polyester to new nylon 56 derived from corn.

» Particular interest should be placed on a new range of warp knits that mimic wovens packed full of performance, stretch, and recovery; they are perfect for the golf scene.

» Fabrics take on a new flounce and fluidity for fit and flare development

MICRO-BRUSHED SURFACES

Unsplash

METALLIC PRINTS AND GLEAMING SURFACES

PIQUE AND PITTED SURFACES FOR ADDED PERFORMANCE UV PROTECTION

ANTI-ODOR, UV+, MOISTURE MANAGEMENT

tony-pham - Unsplash qwalexander-Unsplash

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

GYM & HIGH IMPACT SPORTS

» Note to all brands: Don’t forget inclusivity—from cross-generational offerings to body-positive sizing— scale it up, please!

» Gym and running gear delivers a new level of comfort and compression for men and women, offering added lumbar support and muscular second skin.

» Check out a new level of surface sheen

» Active Intimates — highlevel performance for men and women - support and comfort

» Fabrics that stretch and move with the body — in second skin sensuality

FABRICS

Ref: 2S0835CN

75% Nylon6, 25% Spandex 360° Stretch | Cool Touch, UV+

Ref: SSR80274WN

71% Polyester, 12% IONIC, 17% Spandex | Anti-bacterial, Texture, Moisture Management

Ref: 4L90084EN

71% Nylon56, 29% Lycra | Bio-based Smooth, Compression

Ref: 2S91217EN

86% Polyester, 14% Spandex | Silky touch, Satin Power Stretch

OUTDOOR SPORTS

» Motion sports that involve an excellent swing feature here.

» Racket sports, from paddle to tennis and golf, are summer saviors, so UV+ protection is critical.

» Lightweight, quick dry, antiodor, excellent touch, and UV+ for outdoor protection and enhanced performance

» Mimicry features as new knits mimic wovens with a new level of performance and wearer enhancement.

» Integrated shorts in skirts and dresses — urban sports

» Integrated bra shelves in tops and bodysuits — smooth support for enhanced performance

FABRICS

Ref: 2S0840CN

73% Nylon6, 27% Spandex | UV+, Cool Touch, Moisture Management

Ref: DS90584CN

87% Nylon6, 13% Spandex | Cool Touch, Woven Look

Ref: DL20401WN

76% Nylon66 24% Lycra Spandex | 3D Texture, Natural Touch, Moisture Management

Ref: 2LR60139MN

81% Nylon6 19% Lycra Spandex | Recycled, Chlorine Resistant, Moisture Management

TREND 02 - SS2026

QUIET PACE

The frantic pace of life has slowed down, emphasizing the importance of self-care for a balanced existence. Mental and physical well-being are interconnected, leading us to become more aware of our surroundings and appreciate the capabilities of our bodies, as well as the calming rhythm of our breath.

It’s time to let go of stress and tension, and reconnect with nature and ourselves by respecting and embracing our bodies. This mindset isn’t limited to sports, particularly yoga; it also influences intimate apparel, with the latest technology offering barely-there, comfortable compression for a seamless look.

UNITEX X LOUISA SMITH

CONSUMER ATTITUDE

The pursuit of wellbeing, defined as the state of being comfortable, healthy, and happy, is a valuable goal that many consumers are striving for. It cannot be purchased off the shelf. This state of contentment can only be achieved through positive thinking, a disciplined lifestyle, and regular practice. The ad vantages of healthy eating, sustainable living, and eco-conscious choices such as cycling to work and recycling waste contribute to this new mindset and lifestyle.

This motivational mindset is something that individu als can nurture. Rather than the excessive consump tion that consumers are often criticized for, there is a new emphasis on versatile, high-performance fabrics and responsible apparel design.

AGILITY

“This is a worthy trend that prioritizes apparel that enhances the wearer’s experience, from intimate wear to activewear and everyday clothing, using innovative brand ingredients for performance and sensational tactility”

HONEY-LIKE LIQUIDITY

NOURISHING FABRICS

HEALTH = HAPPINESS

SENSUAL TOUCH

REFLECTIVE SURFACES

MATERIAL INNOVATION

» The tactility of single and double knits is heavenly in this group, from milky touch matte to gleaming gossamer structures veiled like silk-touch

» High compression with a comfortable pull-on functionality team with moisture management for a cool touch and breathability

» Soft touch and 360° high power compression — hosiery-inspired circular knits

» Spongey double spacer knits with a sensual touch

» Recycled yarns

» Bright gleaming tri-lobal yarns for contrast to matte-silky and satin touch

» Anti-odor, Antibacterial, FIR, Cool touch, UV+

PURE PERFECTION

BLURRED PRINTS

DREAM-LIKE

WATER THERAPY

X LOUISA SMITH | SS26

ABSTRACT PRINTS

COOL TOUCH

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

INTIMATE APPAREL & SWIMWEAR

Fabrics for intimate apparel garments glide over the body in a new softness

All-embracing compression for men and women

High-performance active intimate apparel, moisture management, quick dry, cool touch

» Molded fabrics for seam-free cups

» Potential for the men’s market: it’s time for the male consumer to get with second-skin luxe

» Bodysuits for women with built-in bra shelves for a smooth level of support

» Clean cut barely-there shapewear — anti-roll with no ugly VPL

» Swimwear can take a new gloss level for a glam approach for the season

FABRICS

Ref: JS11225CN

83% Nylon, 17%, Spandex | 360° Stretch

Ref: JS11231CN

75% Nylon 25% Spandex | Soft Touch, 360° Stretch

Ref: 4S20088CN

55% Nylon, 45% Spandex | High Compression

Ref: JS21229GN

45% Nylon, 55% Spandex | Anti-Bacterial, High Compression

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

15-4825 TPG

14-1420TPG

13-0117TPG

ACTIVEWEAR

» Fit and flare yoga pants — make the most of lightweight sensual hands with opacity

» Zoned core stability on bottoms — from shorts to leggings

» Eliminate the side seam on leggings and fitted shorts for a comfortable fit.

» Active short or long onesie — worn for the yoga workout or off to the coffee shop

» Active living — a new level of athleisure incorporating sensational fabrics for men and women

» Racerback styling — body apparel that will go from the yoga studio to the swimming pool — versatile designs for different activities

» Delicate veiled vest and outer shell layers complement the base layers

FABRICS

Ref: JSR51157TS

44% Polyester, 44% CDP, 12% Spandex | Recycled, Anti-odor, Melange, Soft Touch

Ref: RS20048GN

67% Nylon, 33% Spandex | Cool touch, Anti-bacterial

Ref: DS90406WN

57% Nylon, 43% Spandex | Cool Touch, High Compression, Moisture Management

Ref: 2S0776EN

85% Nylon, 15% Spandex | High Power

TREND 03 - SS2026

MONO MOVES

Sustainability flows throughout Unitex’s Spring/Summer 2026 trends, as efficiency and responsible manufacturing, renewable energy, and premium ingredients create the crème de la crème of functional fabrics. This leads the way to the next step: looking towards a circular future, where refused and regenerated material continues.

Textile-to-textile (T2T) circularity is on the rise, and in its early stages, the potential for innovation falls onto mono fabrics. These materials are easier to return to the circular economy than contrasting blends, offering a promising future for sustainable fashion. For this trend, we look to innovation in the form of mechanical stretch, delivering a softer stretch and recovery purely through yarn innovation and fabric construction. Eliminating previous accompanying fibers and processes leads to more efficient textile manufacturing and a more sustainable industry.

UNITEX X LOUISA SMITH

CONSUMER ATTITUDE

The eco-conscious consumer is powerful, extending their lifestyle choices into their apparel options. They are driving the demand for performance mono fabric, which enables ‘anytime, anywhere’ conversion of active lifestyle apparel. As cities reclaim their fresh air and ban cars, these consumers lead the way in new urban social movements. The respect they offer and expect extends to knowledge and travel, making it clear that sustainability is not just a trend but a lifestyle.

Less is more is the mantra, where responsibly sourced performance fabrics include bio-based ingredients for synthetics, especially with engineered stretch. Anti-odor, antibacterial, FIR, and NIR to energize and create a sense of well-being. The touch is natural and embracing, with texture playing a role in delivering optically heavier-looking

Brands need to maintain their engagement with the consumer, not just at the birth of the product but also at its end of life. Take-back schemes are relevant in returning used goods back into the circular economy and creating an eco-alliance and loyal consumer base.

URBAN MOBILITY

ALTERNATIVE MOBILITY

“Functional mono fabrics allow for kickstarting the circular economy, paving the way for a scaled-up commercial T2T future”

STREET GYMNS

CITY ARENAS

LOCKED-IN PERMANENT

FUNCTION

TEXTILE

INNOVATION

Synthetics — conventional nylon and

Recycled synthetics — ocean near and far

Permanent performance — micro encapsulated function for longer life of apparel

Natural touch, cotton-like plain warp, and

3D textured surfaces

Mechanical stretch

Bio-degradable synthetics — combatting microfiber shedding and pollution

Dope dyed synthetics — incredible water

Micro-brushed technical side create double-sided fabrics

Anti-bacterial yarns and finishes for longer-lasting wearability pre-laundering

STRETCH AND RECOVER

CIRCULARITY

FASHION & FUNCTION

PROTECTION

PERFORMANCE VERSATILITY

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

18-3949TPG

16-3115 TPG

URBAN

» Layering features in lightweight qualities

» Fluid silhouettes

» All-rounder apparel — from work to leisure, sport to loungewear — adaptable pieces and high-level performance fabrics

» Urban sportswear

» Outer shells replace classic woven with knits that mimic the look

» Rounded spacer fabrics

» Double knits — solid/print variations for reversibility in vest tops and bodywear

» Performance base layers: Soccer, golf, tennis

FABRICS

Ref: SN10089CN

100% Polyester | Wicking, Light Weight

Ref: DN80053WN

100% Polyester | Texture, Mechanical Stretch, Moisture Management

Ref: SN20083WN

60% Polyester, 40% CD Polyester

Ref: JN90113WN

100% Polyester | Bio-based, Cotton Touch, Mechanical Stretch, Moisture Management

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

TRAVEL

» Multi-functional performance pieces that will be packed into a handheld bag or backpack

» Iron-free fluidity and blouson effects

» Hoodies

» Moisture management and anti-odor fabrics for longer wearability

» Work with muted tones and classic indigo — keeping clothes looking fresher for longer as well as feeling fresher

» Thermal regulation jackets and outer shells

» Reversible options — incorporate Unitex four-color print system

» Utility pockets on pants and tops — top functionality for when traveling by plane or train

» Essential intimate apparel

FABRICS

Ref: QN90068CN

71% bio-Polyester, 29% Polyester | Bio-Based, Texture, Natural-touch

Ref: JN0076WN

75% Polyester, 25% CD Polyester | Natural touch, melange, lightweight thermal

Ref: JN0095WN

100% Polyester | Bio-based, Moisture Management, Anti-bacterial, Mechanical Stretch

Ref: JN80114WN

100% Polyester | Cotton Touch, Mechanical Stretch, Moisture Management

TREND

04 - SS2026

BOUNDLESS

From forest bathing in the countryside to swimming at the beach, Boundless embraces the vast space and freedom we can find to express ourselves in the great outdoors. The Spring/Summer season brings a new range of performance and functionality in fabrics and apparel design.

Ecotourism, van living, and camping are popular activities during the summer season, with milder temperatures creating more comfortable outdoor living conditions. Escaping from urban life to sleep under the stars or picnic in the mountains after a long hike captures the mood. This is about connecting with nature, whether on land or at sea.

UNITEX X LOUISA SMITH

CONSUMER ATTITUDE

Exposure to the great outdoors positively affects health and well-being, but a good level of protection and performance must be maintained. Fabrics with features such as cool touch, quick drying, anti-odor, and moisture management that reactivate to the body’s motion, as well as anti-mosquito finishes and UV protection, are important.

Consumers respect the outdoors, with the motto ‘leave as exactly as you found’ true in paving a bio-diverse environment. It also paves the way for recycled synthetics from ocean waste and post-con sumer plastic. But by far, the most important function is UV+, not just for adults but also for children’s outdoor collections. With the Boundless trend, consum ers are looking for versatile outdoor essentials that can also be used in urban environments, such as a fully functioning 24/7 wardrobe for any occasion.

FOREST BATHING

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

OUTDOOR LIVING

PURITY - REDUCED IMPACT

“Consumers want apparel that can seamlessly transition from outdoor adventures to urban life without sacrificing style or functionality”

OCEAN WASTE RECYCLED NYLON NATURAL ALLURE

REACTIVE PRINTS MICRO BRUSHED

INNOVATION

» UV protection is a must, whether it is UV+ or a UV Cut fabrics

» Cool touch fabrics — locked-in permanence

» Moisture management, quick dry, anti-odor

» Prints — especially for the swimwear sector

» Bio-based nylon

» Warp knits with a woven appearance

— taking knitted fabrics to second and outer layer applications

» High power stretch — soft yet compressive

» Bio-degradable polyester combatting microfiber shedding — super story for beachwear

» Performance finishes — anti-mosquito, anti-odor, hydrophobic finishes for a dry finish for swimwear

» Thermal regulating spacer fabrics for second-layers

» PFC-free DWR finishes, and membranes take knits to a new level of outer layer performance

PRINTS

ROUNDED SPACERS

qwalexander-Unsplash THE GREAT OUTDOORS OFFERS INCLUSIVITY TO ALL. RESPONSIBLE DESIGN LEADS TO VERSATILE PRODUCTS AND EXTENDED SIZES, ALL PACKED FULL OF PERFORMANCE TO CROSS BOUNDARIES, OFFERING ADDED VALUE, MORE EFFICIENT USE, AND LONGER LIFE TO HAVE A MUCH WIDER APPEAL

3D TEXTURE TOUGH & TENACIOUS KNITS

CUSTOMIZE WITH PRINTS

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

18-3633 TPG

17-0336 TPG

OUTDOORS

14-1108 TPG

» Long-sleeved lightweight genderneutral tops

» Circular knits for hooded hiking tops — anti-mosquito a must-have

» Urban outdoors — performance pieces that fit the outdoor and urban arenas

» Lightweight vests — PFC-free DWR for added protection

» Anti-odor for longer wearability — especially during camping trips

» Packability — lightweight products that don’t take too much space

» Textured surfaces for enhanced moisture management movement against the skin

FABRICS

Ref: DA80535EN

80% Nylon 56, 10% IONIC Nylon, 10% Spandex | Bio-based, Anti-bacterial, Texture

Ref: QS80061CM-D

94% Polyester, 6% Spandex | Lightweight Thermal, Texture

Ref: QS80068WN-D

82% Nylon, 18% Spandex | 3D Texture, Moisture Management

Ref: DS80600CN

88% Polyester, 12% Spandex | Woven-look

11-0618 TPG

12-4401 TPG

15-1243 TPG

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

SURF & SWIM

» Look to recycled ocean plastics in regenerated nylon yarns — a great connection to the eco-conscious consumer who likes to hit the beach

» Do not forget UV protection in all of this sector — it is essential

» Body positivity — this trend exudes inclusivity — make sure to extend size ranges

» Rash vests — short and long sleeves essential for water sports or to cross over into protection on an overland hike

» Create zipper-front rash guards that work beach to street

» Embrace prints; let’s work with abstract designs and bold motifs

Swimwear — core stability in the form of high-compression circular knits

Hydrophobic finishes create a dry option when exiting the sea

Board shorts — lightweight, crisp knits mimic wovens

Spacer fabric for neoprene outer shells for jackets and vests to complete the look

FABRICS

Ref: 2S91214SN

80% Nylon, 20% Spandex |

Texture, 4-Way Stretch

Ref: 2S21193XN

84% Nylon, 16% Spandex |

Texture, Cool Touch, UV Protection

Ref: 2S1012XN

75% Nylon, 25% Spandex |

Smart Temp, Cool Touch, UV-Cut

Ref: DS90585CN

16% Nylon, 63% Polyester, 21% Spandex |

Spacer, Melange, Wicking

UNITEX is a green-level factory that specializes in circular and warp knits. The company firmly believes in sustainability, which is why it is deeply ingrained in the foundation of the company. UNITEX uses regenerative energy, invests in the most efficient textile manufacturing and finishing equipment, eco-dyeing machines and works in partnership with the best premium ingredients available to ensure they remain environmentally friendly. It is this commitment to sustainability that has earned UNITEX numerous awards for their perfomance fabrics.

In addition to the growing textile business, January 2024 saw the opening of the new UNITEX automated garment manufacturing factory. This latest investment ensures a uniterrupted sustainable sourcing solution, from fabric to final garment with complete transparency for UNITEX customers.