I've been in this business for over two decades, and I've never seen the market move as fast as it does today. What sold out last month might be dead next month. But some patterns emerge. Some categories consistently perform. As someone who talks to buyers every single day, I have a unique view into what's actually selling. Not what the fashion magazines say should sell. What real customers are buying from real online stores.
The top selling fashion accessories for online retailers in 2026 are statement hair clips, versatile scarf sets, tech-integrated accessories, sustainable belt bags, personalized jewelry, and bucket hats. These categories combine trendiness with functionality and photograph well for social media, which drives online sales.
I'm the owner of Shanghai Fumao Clothing, and we run AceAccessory. We produce millions of accessories every year for online retailers around the world. Let me share what we're seeing in the data.
Why are hair accessories dominating online sales?
Hair accessories have been on a tear for several years now, and 2026 is no exception. They're affordable, they're visible, and they're easy to ship. A customer can buy a $5 hair clip and feel like they've refreshed their entire look. The margins are good for retailers. The shipping costs are low. And they photograph beautifully for social media.
We're seeing particular strength in statement pieces. Oversized claw clips in bold colors. Silk scrunchies in jewel tones. Headbands with knots, bows, or embellishments. The "more is more" philosophy is driving this category. Customers want their hair accessories to be noticed. They want them to be part of their outfit, not just functional items. This is a category where Shanghai Fumao Clothing has seen tremendous growth.
What specific hair accessory styles are trending for 2026?
Oversized claw clips are still going strong. They work for all hair types and look chic. Silk scrunchies continue to sell well, especially in satin finishes. They're gentle on hair and add a touch of luxury. Knotted headbands in fabrics like velvet and tweed are popular for both casual and dressy looks. We're also seeing growth in decorative bobby pins and barrettes with pearls, crystals, and unique shapes. These allow customers to customize their look. The hair accessory market is all about self-expression right now.
How do hair accessories perform in online vs. brick-and-mortar retail?
Hair accessories are perfect for online retail. They're small, lightweight, and inexpensive to ship. They don't need to be tried on, so the return rate is low. Customers can buy multiple styles and colors without breaking the bank. In physical stores, they're often impulse buys at the checkout counter. Online, they're discovered through social media and styled in content. We help our online retail clients create variety packs and curated sets that increase average order value.
What makes scarves and wraps continue to sell well?
Scarves are the ultimate versatile accessory. They can be worn around the neck, as a head covering, tied to a bag, or even as a top in warmer weather. This versatility makes them a great value for customers. One scarf can create multiple looks. In 2026, we're seeing strong demand for scarves that can be styled in multiple ways.
Square scarves in silk or silk-like fabrics are particularly hot. They can be worn as neckerchiefs, head wraps, or tied to handbags. Lightweight oversized scarves that work as beach cover-ups or light wraps are also selling well. On the other end, chunky knit scarves remain winter staples. The key is versatility. A scarf that can only be worn one way is a harder sell than one with multiple styling options.
Which scarf materials are most popular with online shoppers?
Silk and silk-blend scarves are always popular for their luxurious feel and beautiful drape. They photograph well, which is crucial for online sales. Lightweight viscose and modal scarves are popular for warmer weather. They're soft, breathable, and affordable. Chunky acrylic and wool blends dominate the winter months. We're also seeing growth in eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester and Tencel. Online shoppers, especially younger ones, care about sustainability. They look for certified materials when they shop.
How can retailers effectively display scarves online?
Video is essential. A flat photo doesn't show how a scarf moves or drapes. Short styling videos showing different ways to wear the scarf dramatically increase conversion. Multiple photos showing the scarf styled in different ways also help. Close-ups of the fabric texture are important. Customers want to know what it feels like. We provide our clients with high-quality lifestyle images and styling guides to help them sell effectively. The more you can help customers visualize the product, the better it will sell.
Why are tech-integrated accessories gaining traction?
Technology and fashion are merging in exciting ways. In 2026, this is no longer a niche category. Heated accessories are mainstream in cold climates. Bags with built-in chargers are standard. Touchscreen-compatible gloves are expected, not a bonus. Customers want their accessories to do more than just look good.
We're seeing strong growth in heated scarves and gloves. The technology has improved dramatically. Batteries are smaller and last longer. Heating elements are flexible and comfortable. Controls are simple, often just a button on the cuff. These products sell at higher price points and have loyal customers who come back for more.
What heated accessories are performing best?
Heated scarves and heated gloves are the top sellers. In very cold markets, heated hats are also popular. The key is making the heating invisible. The product has to look like a normal fashion accessory first. If it looks like tech, it won't sell. We work with tech partners to integrate heating elements seamlessly. The controls should be subtle. A small button that looks like a decorative detail. The battery should be hidden in a pocket or pouch. When done right, these products fly off virtual shelves.
How important is touchscreen compatibility for gloves?
It's essential. In 2026, customers expect to use their phones without taking off their gloves. Every pair of gloves we produce has touchscreen-compatible fingertips. The technology has improved. Early versions wore out quickly. Now, conductive threads are woven into the fabric and last as long as the glove itself. We test every batch to ensure touchscreen functionality works reliably. This isn't a luxury feature anymore. It's standard.
What's driving the demand for belt bags and sustainable accessories?
Belt bags, also called fanny packs or crossbody bags, refuse to die. They've been popular for years and continue to evolve. In 2026, we're seeing demand for higher-end materials and sustainable construction. Customers want a bag that looks good, works hard, and doesn't harm the planet.
Sustainability is no longer a niche concern. It's mainstream, especially for younger online shoppers. They want to know where their products come from and what they're made of. Brands that can tell a compelling sustainability story have a competitive advantage. We've invested heavily in sustainable materials and transparent supply chains to meet this demand.
What features make belt bags popular in 2026?
Versatility is key. A belt bag that can be worn around the waist, crossbody, or even as a sling bag sells better than a single-use design. Multiple pockets help with organization. RFID-blocking pockets are increasingly requested for security. Size matters too. Not too big, not too small. Just big enough for phone, keys, wallet, and maybe a lipstick. We work with clients to develop custom belt bag designs that hit these sweet spots. The crossbody bag market continues to grow.
How are sustainable materials affecting accessory sales?
They're becoming a deciding factor. A shopper comparing two similar bags will often choose the sustainable option, even at a slightly higher price. We offer belts and bags made from recycled materials like ocean plastic and post-consumer waste. We use organic cotton and natural dyes. We provide full traceability. When a brand can say "this bag is made from recycled materials and we can prove it," that's powerful. It builds trust and justifies a premium price. Shanghai Fumao Clothing is at the forefront of this movement.
How are jewelry and headwear performing in the online space?
Jewelry has always been a strong online category. In 2026, we're seeing a shift toward personalized and meaningful pieces. Initial necklaces, birthstone items, and engraved pieces sell well. They make great gifts, which is always a strong driver for online sales.
Headwear remains steady. Baseball caps are perennial sellers, especially with custom embroidery. Bucket hats have maintained their popularity. Knit beanies are winter staples. The key in headwear is fit and quality. A hat that doesn't fit well will be returned. A hat that loses its shape after a few wears will get bad reviews. We focus on consistent sizing and durable construction.
What jewelry styles are trending for 2026?
Layered necklaces continue to be popular. Customers buy multiple pieces to stack and mix. Hoop earrings in various sizes are always in style. Signet rings and stackable rings sell well. Personalized jewelry with names, initials, or meaningful dates has a strong gift market. We offer custom jewelry manufacturing for clients who want unique pieces. The key is quality. Plating must last. Clasps must be secure. We test everything rigorously.
Are bucket hats still popular or fading out?
Bucket hats have proven they're not a passing trend. They've become a staple item, especially for younger consumers. They work for both men and women. They come in endless materials from cotton to nylon to knit. They're packable and easy to style. In 2026, we're seeing demand for bucket hats in technical fabrics for outdoor use and in luxe materials for fashion. The bucket hat market has matured and stabilized. It's now a core item, not a trendy one.
Conclusion
The top selling fashion accessories for online retailers in 2026 reflect broader trends in consumer behavior. Hair accessories dominate because they're affordable, photogenic, and expressive. Scarves sell because they're versatile and offer great value. Tech-integrated accessories meet the demand for functionality. Belt bags and sustainable items appeal to the conscious consumer. Jewelry and headwear provide steady, reliable categories.
At AceAccessory, we produce all of these categories and more. Our factory in Zhejiang is modern and clean. Our design team stays ahead of trends. Our quality control ensures every product meets high standards. If you're an online retailer looking for reliable, trend-aware suppliers, let's talk. Reach out to our Business Director, Elaine, at elaine@fumaoclothing.com. She'll connect you with a project manager who understands the online retail space.
