trend journal
content What is a trend all you need is denim street wear yellow & red long skirts culottes take a leap of trends white sneakers notable trends Conclusion references
1 2 5 6 8 10 11 12 14 15 1
what is a trend? The world revolves around trends but what is a trend? It is a movement that a group of people use for a sense of direction that has a life cycle based on various factors. Fashion trends are a continuous cycle of history repeating itself through movements and changes in society. The main factors that influence trends are economical, social, cultural, political and technology also allows new possibilities. Fashion is a part of our day to day lives with styles that have been adapted and regenerated from history. This trend journal focuses on trends that appear on the streets of Hong Kong, specifically in Causeway Bay, Mong Kok and Taikoo Shing. The three locations were chosen due to the popularity and crowd during weekends. Visual representations of trends have repeated itself multiple times on the street as the society has accepted and chosen to follow similiar styles. During the collection of research, it was evident that the groups in each location had a mixture of innovators and laggards which allowed a collection of 10 journal entries focusing on colour and styles that the Hong Kong community is wearing at the moment.
et s; fishn of trend ie, bomber n o ti a in od A comb , oversized ho rescribed p gs n o in k n c d to n s s, s, rou p a w sock c e , r c ts jacke jeans, d e . p s r ip ke ,r glasses akers and cho ne s e it h w
1
all you need is DENIM Denim is a staple piece that has been adapted into many styles throughout history. The fabric is made of cotton warp thread that can be dyed and manipulated to create different styles. Like a chameleon, denim can be dressed up or down depending on the style and how it is worn. Originally, jeans were made to create workwear however popularity rose as 1930s Hollywood shot cowboys wearing blue jeans. After World War 2, a few notable companies such as Wrangler and Lee manufactured jeans that were worn by young adults. Recent demand increase for vintage Levi’s and older pieces has created an explosion of DIY’s and new ideas such as adding pearl embellishments onto jeans. Whether you want to look dressy, casual or classic, denim is the way to go. Different finishes and unconventional cuts have evolved denim into an everlasting fabric that will constantly change. Denim itself has segments of various trends from fringe, ripped, dyed, distressed, embroidered, high waisted, low cut and more. The way that the fabric is tailored can enhance features and innovative material has augmented the popularity of denim. The possibilities are endless. Generally, darker shades of denim establish a slimmer figure while lighter shades of denim draws attention to the area. However, nowadays people are more likely to break the rules. During the resea rch process of trends, denim was evidently worn by every segment of Hong Kong. Denim on denim has been a controversial trend as it can be a hit or miss due to the shades and pairing of denim pieces. One image taken also shows pearls embellished on the jacket which is currently a trend that consumer can purchase at Zara. Pearls gained popularity in 2015 creating a DIY but effortless look to denim clothing. Jourdan Dunn and Rihanna wore these trends and they are making a comeback. Denim jackets were found to have white wool collars which is usually worn during cooler weather and embroidery which has a great demand during Spring. Embroidery gives an extra touch to basic pieces adding value and extra texture to fabric. Gucci has been a front runner with embroidered Gucci sneakers, loafers, bags and more. The popularity of denim has made it a accessible piece and worn by many. The images collected show thin denim shirts that are more likely worn during Spring in Hong Kong due to the humidity. Ripped jeans either seem like a mistake, a trendy way to DIY jeans or effortless way to look stylish. The trend is going strong from the rock, grunge era during the late 1980s. Traditionally overalls are and were worn by farmers and the trend look over in the 60’s. The trend has repeated itself over and over. Innovator like Alexa Chung made overalls acceptable again. Denim will always be in style. The trend will never end and new innovative thinking will allow denim to further develop over time.
2
“Denim is one of the world’s oldest fabrics, yet it remains eternally young.” -American Fabrics
3
4
street wear Counter cultural symbols become mainstream and enter the world of fashion. The skateboard brand, Thrasher has been worn by off duty models and celebrities creating hype to the lifestyle streetwear crowd. Streetwear has been flooded with brands mixing between street, menswear and sportswear. The likes of Supreme, Anti Social Social Club and Bape have been categorised in the same segment group. Streetwear is influenced by different elements but stems from hip hop culture. Skateboarding is a huge aspect of the culture with a mixture of surf and the movement emphasises a free culture that expresses individuality. Shawn Stussy, a Los Angeles surfboard designer printed his designs on t-shirts which gained immediate interest. Which resulted in a flagship store located on 5th Avenue. There are website that help streetwear enthusiast find out the latest news; Hypebeast, Highsnobiety and Complex Magazine. This movement is not cheap. There is a thin line between streetwear and luxury fashion brands. Many brands have a rich history that involve designers working together and influencing each other’s work. The movement focuses on looking effortlessly put together with basic pieces that look simple but branded. Different colour ways are introduced for seasonal pieces with limited patterns however the standard basics are black and white. Different brands have hierarchy and work together to create pieces. The collaboration between Louis Vuitton and Supreme is an example of streetwear. The demand to be in trend is huge especially with millennial’s that are willing to go above and beyond to have material goods. Branded merchandise is a huge investment and trend that is happening at the moment. Stussy t-shirts are available at Urban Outfitters. As the demand for material branded items and the interest in collecting different pieces like sneakers and hoodies, streetwear will continue to be a strong movement with the niche that they have. It is accessible to a certain type of person and not sustainable for many. But the culture is interesting to understand and follow from a distance. It was surprising to see the small group in Hong Kong.
5
yellow & red Two primary colours, yellow and red were eye-catching and dominant during the research process of the trend journal. Yellow is the optimal colour of Spring. The hue has been featured during many fashion shows and different shades have been evident in every season. During the 2017 Golden Globes, bright yellow was a notable colour worn by many celebrities which is interesting because yellow is usually paired with the idea that it washes your appearance and is considered unflattering. One notable yellow dress was made by Guo Pei and worn by Rihanna at the Met Gala in 2015. It appears that yellow is colour to add to your spring wardrobe. Different shades allow people to mix and match as well as find the perfect match to their skin tone. While we transition from Winter, mustards tones are still popular in Hong Kong. From shirts to culottes, the darker shades of yellow are still being worn but matched with blue denim and darker shades like grey. Fashion innovators and early adaptors are ready for spring wearing bright tones and keeping it casual. The trends of yellow shades were found on t-shirts, long skirts and shirts. The pop of colour is refreshing as the weather changes and Hong Kong prepares itself for the hot months to come ahead. Red, the controversial hue. The bright colour is known for many different meanings and was a popular trend that has been circulating in Hong Kong. As a colour, it stands out and creates a sense of passion, power and can pull an outfit together. Red is a Hollywood classic. With the idea of a red carpet, red lips and dresses, the colour has now been worn as a political trailblazer. The hue connects with the idea of glamour. As a dominating colour, the red Birkenstocks are a simple way to add vibrant colour to a minimal outfit. Red as a hue itself can be overpowering Comfort has been a worldwide trend that everyone is happy to commit to. Red track pants with white panels portrays how society has accepted sporty chic. Athleisure is a trend that allows society to wear workout clothing during different environments other than exercise based. The Wall Street Journal stated that jeans have decreased in sales while workout gear has increased due to health awareness and lifestyle developments. Bright colours are most popular during Spring. As Spring is a season of new beginnings and the excitement of summer appears to pull us through the months, yellow and red are hues that emphasise our emotions. Bright colours are expected to appear throughout the season until Fall rolls around.
6
7
l o n g X S K I R T S
An unexpected trend that I found during my research stage was long skirts. The different styles and fabrics used displayed a variety of skirts to choose from. High waisted skirts appeal to women as it is a versatile staple. The skirt can be worn with in different climates and situations making it easy to mix and match with pieces that you already on. It is evident that Hong Kong citizens are still transitioning from Winter into Spring and the maxi skirt is the perfect way to get ready for the humid weather. All the images for this trend consisted of women wearing flat shoes but the skirt could be dressed up with a pair of heels. A mix of different fabrics were seen on the streets of Hong Kong. From ruffles to pleats, skirts emphasise femininity with help of the high waisted band that is flattering to most body types. The waistlines provides balance to female silhouette and can make a body look slimmer. It is a practical piece that has been worn for centuries. Long skirts are known to be modest due to the lack of skin being shown and the contrast between rising hemlines displays an interesting concept that longer hemlines is a result of economic recession. Longer skirts were known to be prestigious as fabric was expensive. The history of skirts is extensive as it is one of the first garments ever made. From bodices to cage frames, women are now able to accept their natural form. The images of the long skirts show different fabrics that people have chosen to wear. While looking comfortable, the shape of the skirt conveys a sense of girly touch. In all 10 images, the skirts are flown and passed knee length. With details such as a tie, ruffles and tool, the skirts have their own character. The appeal of skirts is apparent in Hong Kong and while the weather gets hotter, skirts will still be trending. In order to not distract or keep it minimal, the colours are neutral. Mostly matched with white sneakers and button up skirts which are staples in every females wardrobe. The skirts can be worn with different tops due to the simplicity. Hong Kong weather will reflect the choice of fabric and matching of the skirts. As it gets hotter, the skirts will be lighter and the tops will be short sleeved.
8
9
culottes There is no shortage of culottes in Hong Kong this season. Culottes are arguably unsexy and comfortable. The split skirt baggy pants are versatile and durable for the hot summer weather. Culottes were originally made for men during the Renaissance for upper class men. Beeches were made with silk and tied at the waist, Culottes were a symbol of status and social class. For women, culottes became popular during the Victorian era with woman being active and empowered. Notably, Elsa Schiaparelli established culottes as pants for woman and she received backlash for the hint of manliness in her designs. There was a French law to arrest women wearing culottes which would be unacceptable now. The shape of culottes have less appeal than other flattering silhouettes but they are functional and empower women to wear what they want without worrying about what other people think. Feminism has been a powerful tool to support women and awareness of the status of women. The shift to working women has had an impact of social, cultural and political aspects. More women working has changed fashion too, with more stylish clothing for the office. Victoria Beckham has been adamant on designing for working women. Even population levels are impacted by women having less children and focusing on their careers. Culottes have taken over Hong Kong replacing mini shorts and allowing girls to be more covered up. It is apparent that the general population prefers plain, neural colours rather than patterned pants which may change as summer rolls around. As of now, women are wearing white, black and nude matching the culottes with plain tops with minimal detail. The focus is more on being comfortable than anything else. Instead of dressing culottes up with heels or accessories, sneakers are preferred by everyone.
10
TAKING A LEAP OF TRENDS in the 90’s Fashion is about taking risks and expressing yourself in your own way. During the research process, I was unable to find 10 defining images of trends but I have included four different trends that have been prominent worldwide; grunge, 90’s inspired, sheer tops and fishnets. Fashion cycles are turning around faster and faster as the 90’s in back in style influenced by youthful rebellion and music. With Kate Moss’s influence of being effortlessly cool and designers such as Marc Jacobs focusing on grunge, the first image displays a choker with all black everything. Lace dress, sheer tights, leather boots and bag. The other images shows layering of necklaces and 90’s casual chic with a Von Dutch t-shirt and high-waisted jeans.
Another popular trend are sheer tops that are feminine and sexy at the same time. Leather and denim are a match made in heaven. Lace up shoes have also been popular over the last few months. Fishnet stockings are back with a glamourous side. Instead of being known as cheaper, hooker stockings the trend has been accessible and cheap for people to be “on trend“. It is a little risky and adds extra texture to an outfit for an accessory with no function.
11
white sneakers White sneakers is a style essential. Sneakers started off with Kids and Converse mass producing shoes and went worldwide in 1924. Most known to be a sports shoe, sneakers were worn as statement pieces during the 1950s. Social influences such as James Dean wearing sneakers in a movie provoked the idea of the trend. Technology influences have affected how sneakers are viewed today. Michael Jordan created a line with Nike which is still influential today and is still a best selling sneaker. Sneaker culture has increased dramatically over the last decade. Sneakers brands like Nike, Adidas and Puma are part of the hip hop culture that endorse popular rappers and artists. There is a high demand for limited stock sneakers that has created a new segment for “sneaker heads. Sneakers are now an important part of fashion with collectable shoes that resell for over triple the original selling price. Over the past few year, every brand has released some kind of white leather shoe. All of them being white, technology and innovation has pushed the shoe further. With new trends and stylish efforts to be in trend. An example of innovative technology are Adidas boosts which focuses of running performance but is popular choice for the mass consumer. Last year, the Adidas All Star and Stan Smiths were top sellers and is still worn now. Due to high demand, sneakers are more valuable and versatile. White matches most outfits and is adaptable to different situations. Another notable white sneaker that is trending are the Gucci white leather sneaker that they have released featuring different embellishments such as embroidery and pearls. Even though white is a pure colour that gets dirty easily, many people have opted for white as it looks fresh and clean. Sneakers are comfortable and for a city like Hong Kong, walking is a part of life. White sneakers have become a staple worldwide. The sneaker trend will continue to grow with social influences such as collaborations and fashion luxury brands focusing on sneakers. Adidas has been success with collaborations with Kanye West and Alexander Wang.
12
13
notable trends
The fake tie waist trend is back due to the resurgence of the 90’s. Instead of tying a shirt to your waist, an easier way to cinch your waist is with a faux set of sleeves to hug your body without the fuss of bulky fabric and extra weight.
Backpacks are the way to go. Due to practicability, the bag comes in different colours and styles that you can mix and match with. It looks carefree and this bag is inspired of eco bags. As the world becomes more conscious of sustainability, this backpack shows how the world is being affected by social influences.
Embellishments add an extra touch to a classic piece. The decorative factor allows clothing to look more expensive and stylish. Army green is a staple fall colour but is it prominent in street style and fast fashion clothing stores.
Camo print is a trend that orginates under the influence of war and the idea of changing the abstract pattern. Kenzo and Valentino are two of many brands that have explored the possibilities of changing the traditional pattern.
The interest in the 90’s has brought back the slip dress but now worn on top of t-shirts and worn in all weather conditions such as velvet slips for winter.
14
conclusion Trends are movements that are influenced by social, cultural, political and technological aspects that are supported by history that establishes a foundation to adapt from. Like a circle, fashion repeats itself every few years and with new advances is pushed further. There were trends were easily noticed straight away. There are some styles that were unexpected to find patterns and learning over the history allowed the process of present and future to become apparent. The trends featured in the journal has been informative and depicts different styles that are socially currently accepted in Hong Kong. Each trend had a story with external influences that made it acceptable in different groups. Fashion history is as important as the trends as it gives the story of how classic pieces have evolved and been adapted by society today. Fashion and the other influences have been affecting each other since the beginning. It is important to be aware of what happened, is happening and will happen. Being associated with a trend correlates to the idea that you belong to a group of like minded individuals that gain influence from innovators and early adaptors that you aspire to be like. Whether it be derived from the mass produced or niche markets, it is a movement that has its own cycle. While trends are popular and easily accessible, styles can be interpreted in an individual manner allowing personal freedom.
15
In a city like Hong Kong, trends can be easily identified and majority of segments have the tendency to wear socially acceptable clothing. Denim is a staple in all walks of life but now consumers have endless options when deciding finishing, cuts and colour. There is a pair of jeans or a skirt that is perfect for anyone. Fast fashion shops have amped the accessibility of trend pieces. Social movements in the past have influenced reoccurring styles such as the ripped jeans to be in style till this day. The younger generation is currently influenced by many past decades, mixing different trends together. Street wear was the most apparent trend in Causeway Bay around the shops that make up the cultural movement. Being inspired by a mixture of high fashion and athletic brands such as Stussy has created a strong community of individuals that prefer to wear basic pieces that look effortless but is “in style�. Different social platforms allow a generation of updates about product launches which keep the group readily available to purchase branded items. Socially, streetwear strongly connects with lifestyle decisions and how millennials specifically are financially capable of purchasing these specific items. The luxury side of street wear derives from a history of collaborations and still affects how streetwear is perceived. Bright colours have been prominent in Spring/Summer fashion shows as the season changes around. This year, red and yellow have been dominant on the runaway and the streets of Hong Kong. Both of the hues are accessible to the public from basic t-shirts to athletic pants. Rather than focusing on the shades that do not suit your skin tone, you can search for the perfect shade from mustard to bright yellow. Red is a classic Hollywood colour that emphasises glamour and power. From Hillary Clinton wearing a red jumpsuit to Trump wearing a red tie, the colour has been taken and manipulated in many ways. A surprising trend that has taken Hong Kong by storm are long skirts. The durable and flattering due to the high waistline allows women to be comfortable. It is made with different fabrics, colours and styles which gives consumers a variety of choice. As feminism has become more apparent culottes are also trending in Hong Kong. The pants have the reputation of being unstylish and not flattering but women are wearing the baggy pants with confidence. White sneakers are not going away especially this season. The versatile shoe derives from a sneaker history that starts as a sportswear shoe but has now become a fashion statement. Due to new innovations, sneakers will continue to gain popularity due to the high demand. There were other trends mentioned that do not have separated entries but are notable in the Hong Kong community. Trends are what the consumer wants and history provides support in accepting those movements. It is a way of life and will always be ever changing.
16
References Bourne, L. (2016, February 29). The 8 Dos and Don’ts of Wearing Denim on Denim. Retrieved April 8, 2017, from http://stylecaster.com/denim-on-denim-rules/ Waibl, S. (2016, November 17). Everyone’s wearing... Double Denim. Retrieved April 8, 2017, from http://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/gallery/everyones-wearingdouble-denim Woolf, J. (2017, March 09). Everything You Need to Know Before Buying Ripped Jeans. Retrieved April 8, 2017, from http://www.gq.com/story/ripped-jeans-guide-wearing-gq Kliest, N. (2015, July 15). The History of Overalls: A Photo Diary. Retrieved April 8, 2017, from http://www.whowhatwear.com/best-overalls-looks-of-all-time/slide1 Tashjian, R. (2015, May 06). The Story Behind Rihanna’s Red Carpet-Winning Met Gala Dress. Retrieved April 8, 2017, from http://www.vanityfair.com/style/2015/05/story-behind-rihanna-redcarpet-winning-met-gala-dress Young, S. (2017, January 30). Mellow Yellow: How to wear spring 2017’s optimistic fashion trend. Retrieved April 9, 2017, from http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/fashion-trend-yellow-catwalk-spring-summer-2017-simone-rocha-jason-wu-bottega-veneta-a7547781.html Athleisure. (2017, March 16). Retrieved April 9, 2017, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athleisure Hobbs, J. (2016, December 15). Scarlet Fever: The Power Of Red. Retrieved April 9, 2017, from http://www.vogue.co.uk/gallery/celebrity-red-dress-trend-2016 Staff, I. (2014, August 20). The Trend: Long Skirts. Retrieved April 10, 2017, from http://www.instyle.com/fashion/trend-long-skirts Silverman, A. (2016, July 14). Trend report: The backpack is back! Retrieved April 10, 2017, from https://www.aol.com/article/lifestyle/2015/03/01/trend-report-the-backpack-is-back/21143496/ Welch, A. (2013, February 24). Camouflage fashion: why the army and navy’s patterns are back on the high street. Retrieved April 10, 2017, from http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/ features/camouflage-fashion-why-the-army-and-navy-s-patterns-are-back-on-the-high-street-8508744.html Culotte History: Why do we Wear These Things, And Why are They Back? (n.d.). Retrieved April 10, 2017, from https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2015/06/are-culottes-ugly-on-purpose-orwhat.html The History of Sneakers. (n.d.). Retrieved April 10, 2017, from https://www.factmonster.com/cool-stuff/fashion-and-dress/history-sneakers Lee, A. (2016, August 25). 10 Nineties Trends That Are Making A Huge Comeback. Retrieved April 10, 2017, from http://thezoereport.com/fashion/trends/best-90s-trends-choker-mom-jeans-slipdress/#slide-3 Rao, P. (2016, August 24). How to Wear Spring 2016’s Eclectic Embellishment Trend to the Office. Retrieved April 10, 2017, from http://www.instyle.com/how-tos/how-to-wear-spring-2016-embellishment-trend-office#1160861 (LD), F. (2016, May 11). Gucci is Following Adidas’ White Sneaker Trend With Their New Sneaker Line. Retrieved April 10, 2017, from http://giorgina.ph/gucci-is-following-adidas-white-sneakertrend-with-their-new-sneaker-line/ Satenstein, L. (2017, February 01). How the Thrasher Tee Became Every Cool Model’s Off-Duty Staple. Retrieved April 10, 2017, from http://www.vogue.com/article/how-did-thrasher-tee-becomemodel-off-duty-staple
17
Augustina Leung Current Trends & Forecasting FASH 419-H01 SPRING 2017 ASSIGNMENT 1 - TREND JOURNAL