Every year, the trend forecast from Pinterest gives the event and design world a glimpse into what aesthetics are about to shape weddings, parties, and styled gatherings. And for 2026, three trends are standing out in the event design space: Brooched, Laced Up, and Food as Decor.
As a Chicago event planner, we’re especially excited about how effortlessly these trends translate into editorial tablescapes, dinner parties, and luxury celebrations. When layered together, they create a look that feels like vintage European charm meets modern fashion editorial.
The vibe?
A romantic, textural tablescape filled with meaningful details that feel both nostalgic and fresh.
Let’s break down how these trends work—and how you can incorporate them into your next Chicago event.
Brooched: Vintage Jewelry Meets Event Styling
The Brooched trend is all about using vintage pins and brooches as unexpected decorative details.
Traditionally worn on blazers or coats, brooches are now showing up in tablescape styling and event décor in creative ways.
For one of our recent styled tables, we incorporated brooches in unexpected places:
- Attached to ribbons and table details
- Layered onto textile accents like socks and fabrics
- Used as accents on favor bags
The effect instantly elevates the table and adds a touch of vintage glamour.
For Chicago weddings or dinner parties, brooches can also be incorporated into:
- Floral arrangements
- Escort cards
- Bridal shower tables
- Guest favors
Because each piece is unique, brooches add personality and storytelling to the design, something we always love when planning custom events.
Laced Up: Soft, Romantic Texture
The Laced Up trend introduces delicate texture through lace ribbons and soft details.
Lace has long been associated with bridal fashion, but in 2026 it’s moving into modern event styling in subtle, editorial ways.
Some of our favorite ways to incorporate lace into a tablescape include:
- Tying lace bows around candlesticks
- Wrapping lace ribbon around bread plates
- Adding lace accents to chairs or cutlery
- Using lace ribbon in bouquet wraps or table linens
The result feels romantic, nostalgic, and beautifully understated—perfect for intimate Chicago dinner parties, engagement celebrations, and wedding receptions.
When paired with natural materials like linen, glass, and candlelight, lace adds a softness that makes the entire table feel thoughtful and layered.
Food as Decor: Edible Tablescapes
One of our favorite styling techniques that continues to appear in trend forecasts is Food as Decor.
Instead of relying only on traditional floral arrangements, this approach incorporates fruits, breads, and vegetables directly into the tablescape.
For our latest styling concept, we created a still-life inspired table design using:
- Grapes
- Pears
- Rustic breads
- Soft white candles
The result feels reminiscent of European dinner parties and classical still-life paintings.
Beyond the visual impact, food styling adds texture, color, and warmth to a table.
For Chicago events, this trend works beautifully for:
- Wedding welcome dinners
- Private chef dinners
- Garden parties
- Styled brand events
- Intimate holiday gatherings
It’s also a great way to make décor feel organic and interactive, since guests can actually enjoy the elements on the table.
How These Trends Work Together
When layered together, Brooched, Laced Up, and Food as Decor create a tablescape that feels like something between:
- A European dinner party
- A vintage fashion editorial
- And a modern luxury event design
Instead of elaborate installations, the magic comes from layering textures and thoughtful details:
- Vintage jewelry
- Soft lace ribbons
- Fresh fruits and edible elements
- Warm candlelight
- Natural linens
The result proves that beautiful event design doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs intention.
Bringing These Trends to Chicago Events
As a Chicago party planner, we’re seeing more clients request unique, editorial-style tablescapes for weddings, milestone celebrations, and brand events.
These trends are perfect for creating memorable, design-forward tables that feel elevated without being overproduced.
Whether it’s a wedding in downtown Chicago, a dinner party in the West Loop, or a private celebration along Lake Michigan, incorporating these details can transform a table into a conversation piece.
And honestly—that’s the kind of event styling we love most.
Chicago Event Planner | Tablescape & Party Design
If you’re planning a Chicago dinner party, birthday party or styled celebration and want help designing a unique tablescape, working with a Chicago event planner can help bring these trends to life in a way that feels cohesive and personal.
From editorial tablescapes to luxury party styling, thoughtful details make all the difference.
