FASH419 SP17 Shop Comparison Report (2-Way Book) - A3 by Chihang

FASM419 SPRING 2017 CURRENT TRENDS AND FORECASTING

SHOP COMPARISON REPORT SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS PRODUCED BY

NICOLE CHEONG CHLOE, YUJUNG CHUNG CHI-HANG WONG DESIGNED BY

CHI-HANG WONG

CONTENTS 06

GIRL-APPROVED HOODIE

MATCHY MATCHY

IT GIRL UNIFORM

BACK TO NATURE

PLAYING PEEKABOO

SPORTY MESH AND SHEER

COLOR MY LIFE

NEW ATHLETIC STRIPES

HOODIES

MATCHING TOP AND BOTTOM

MATCHING TRACKSUITS

NATURE-INSPIRED PRINTS

CUT-OUTS

MESH AND SHEER

COLOR-BLOCKING

STRIPES

ATHLEISURE MARKET Athleisure is often defined as comfortable, versatile, and stylish activewear. With the growth in health and wellbeing triggering the growth of the fitness-conscious consumer, many adorn themselves in stylish garments that once held a functional history in sports. In todays’ society, what we choose to wear for exercise not only dictates the sport we play, the team we support, and the brands we purchase, it can also make a statement about us. Last year, a high number of consumers bought sports apparel and footwear for leisurewear and daily wear. Furthermore, an increase in on-the-go lifestyles of young adults, has led to relaxed dress codes at the workplace, restaurants, and various other establishments. Sales of activewear and athleisure have also surged in the recent years; however, due to the continuous entry of mass market and luxury brands, the current market is thus highly saturated.

ATHLEISURE CONSUMER After visiting sport centers, events, gyms, the streets, and browsing through research sources, it was evident that the main followers of athleisure were Millennials. The popularity of athleisure and sportswear brands is also seen through their product’s ability to build an emotional connection with consumers. Consumers that hold a strong belief in health and fitness being an everyday pursuit, also crave the active lifestyle that comes with every purchase (Fung Global Retail Technoogy). Since athleisure is about embracing ideologies and aspirational lifestyles, Millennials are believed to be more willing to spend on fashion and food experiences, gym memberships, and health or fitness tracking apps and devices. Fashion brands have thus picked up on consumer trends, and began retailing more innovative fashion-led activewear or functional athleisurewear. Luxury brands have also stepped in, with rising collaborations with sportswear brands. Overall, there is a definite lifestyle shift in play, as more consumers adopt this trend, despite being an active sportsman.

ATHLEISURE MARKET TRENDS Trends that impacted and developed from athleisure goes beyond fashion, as external influences grow stronger. Young women in particular will “continue to take a growing interest in their personal health, inspired by fitnessoriented celebrities and influenced by the increasing among of health messages and nutritional information targeting them” (Euromonitor, 2015). In relation to fashion, some notable events include the evolution of sportswears, and its adoption in casual wear. Although this trend was prevalent in the 1980’s and 1990’s, it resurged after shifts towards the health and wellness lifestyle trend. The ‘it-girls’ and trend setters of today, have the biggest influence on the fashion industry, with their pairing of dresses with sneakers, swapping jeans for leggings, and adding a touch of bodycon to complete the look (Malacoff, 2016). However, in order to fully cater to these consumers, brands and retailers must be able to seamless create a one-stop destination for shopping and lifestyle. Another key event is, the emergence of luxury and high-end designers catering to the segment of consumers willing to pay high prices for atheltic inspired apparel and footwear. According to Edited, premium and luxury brands shared 16% of the sprotswear market in 2015, while high-street and massmarket brands dominated with 81%. Therefore in order to compete with high street brands, and offer consumers the best value, luxury designers often improve assortments by mixing basic and exquisite materials together with patterns and textures. Styles on street are also relevant, especially with trends from the past resurfacing or disappearing in 2017. According to athletic retailer Bandier, the biggest trend for 2017 is the correleation of fashion meeting function. This is even seen when visiting gyms and yoga centres in Hong Kong, with many mixing and matching items of different purposes. Together with the runway, the trends that will continue to remain ubiquitous in 2017 include both garment and styling elements. These identified ones are tracksuits and matching sets, and hoodies.The styling elements evident in these categories thereore are, athletic stripes, nature-inspired prints and patterns, cut-outs, and colour blocking.

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / HOODIES

GIRL-APPROVED HOODIES

1. NOKAOI MADE IN USA 71% POLYAMIDE, 29% ELASTANE HKD2,200

2. PARTICLE FEVER MADE IN CHINA BODY 100% COTTON LINING 100% POLYESTER HKD1,200

3. LNDR MADE IN PORTUGAL 91% COTTON, 6% POLYAMIDE, 3% ELASTANE HKD1,700

4. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM OUTER 50% POLYURETHANE, 50% NYLON SHELL 100% COTTON HKD294

5. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 57% COTTON, 38% POLYESTER, 5% SPANDEX HKD159

6. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 100% POLYESTER HKD159

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / MATCHING TOP AND BOTTOM

MATCHY MATCHY

1. ADIDAS X STELLA MCCARTNEY MADE IN INDIA 80% POLYESTER, 20% ELASTANE TOP HKD450 BOTTOM HKD600

2. KORAL MADE IN USA INFINITY 85% POLYAMIDE, 15% LYCRA EVANESCE 86% NYLON, 14% ELASTANE TOP HKD800 BOTTOM HKD1,100

3. LNDR MADE IN PORTUGAL 76% POLYAMIDE, 17% POLYESTER, 4% ELASTANE, 3% NYLON TOP HKD1,700 BOTTOM HKD1,100

4. LNDR MADE IN PORTUGAL 76% POLYAMIDE, 18% POLYESTER, 6% ELASTANE TOP HKD700 BOTTOM HKD1,100

5. H&M MADE IN CHINA 58% COTTON, 42% POLYESTER TOP HKD99.90 BOTTOM HKD399

6. ARENA MADE IN CHINA 59% POLYAMIDE, 41% ELASTANE TOP HKD 399 BOTTOM HKD499

7. ADIDAS MADE IN CHINA 70% RECYCLED POLESTER, 19% POLYESTER, 11% ELASTINE TOP HKD299 BOTTOM HKD199

8. NIKE MADE IN CHINA 80% POLYESTER, 20% SPANDEX TOP HKD329 BOTTOM HKD269

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / MATCHING TRACKSUITS

IT GIRL UNIFORM

1. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN INDONESIA 100% RECYCLED POLYESTER TOP HKD1,000 BOTTOM HKD600

2. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN VIETNAM 72% POLYESTER, 24% RAYON, 4% ELASTINE TOP HKD360 BOTTOM HKD300

3. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN CHINA 100% POLYESTER SINGLE JERSEY TOP HKD399 BOTTOM HKD499

4. H&M MADE IN BANGLADESH 100% POLYESTER TOP HKD199 BOTTOM HKD199

5. JUICY COUTURE MADE IN VIETNAM 78% COTTON, 22% POLYESTER TOP HKD2,090 BOTTOM HKD1,490

6. JUICY COUTURE MADE IN VIETNAM 78% COTTON, 22% POLYESTER TOP HKD 1,890 BOTTOM HKD1.590

7. H&M MADE IN CHINA 64% COTTON, 36% POLYESTER TOP HKD199 BOTTOM HKD129

8. H&M MADE IN BANGLADESH 100% COTTON TOP HKD199 BOTTOM HKD199

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / NATURE-INSPRED PRINTS

BACK TO NATURE

1. HANDSOME MADE IN CHINA PRINT 100% POLYSTER MESH 90% POLYESTER, 10% ELASTANE HKD800

2. FESXICOOL BY HANDSOME MADE IN CHINA MAIN 74% POLYESTER, 26 ELASTANE LINING 86% NYLON, 14% ELASTANE HKD700

3. THE UPSIDE SPORT MADE IN VIETNAM 70% POLYSTER, 30% ELASTANE HKD700

4. THE UPSIDE SPORT MADE IN CHINA 100% POLYESTER HKD800

5. THE UPSIDE SPORT MADE IN CHINA 82% POLYESTER, 18% ELASTANE HKD 500

6. THE UPSIDE SPORT MADE IN CHINA 100% POLYSTER HKD800

7. RAG & BONE MADE IN USA 64% COTTON, 36% VISCOSE HKD2,500

8. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN CHINA 100% POLYESTER SINGLE JERSEY HKD399

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / NATURE-INSPRED PRINTS

BACK TO NATURE

9. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN CHINA 100% POLYESTER PLAIN WEAVE HKD699

10. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN CAMBODIA 94% POLYESTER, 6% ELASTANE SINGLE JERSEY HKD499

11. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN CHINA 100% POLYESTER TRICOT HKD759

12. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN CHINA CLASSIC RUBBER SHELL TOE, SYNTHETIC LEATHER LINING, LEATHER 3-STRIPES HKD799

13. H&M MADE IN CHINA 80% POLYAMIDE, 20% ELASTANE HKD299

14. FOREVER21 MADE IN INDONESIA 87% POLYESTER, 13% SPANDEX HKD179

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / CUT-OUTS

PLAYING PEEKABOO

1. KORAL MADE IN USA 100% TENCEL HKD800

2. NEW BALANCE MADE IN TURKEY 93% NYLON, 7% ELASTANE HKD299

3. NEW BALANCE MADE IN CHINA 87% POLYSETER, 13% ELASTANE HKD249

4. FOREVER21 MADE IN PHILIPPINES SHELL 1 60% COTTON, 40% POLYESTER SHELL 2 96% POLYSTER, 4% SPANDEX HKD149

5. FOREVER21 MADE IN INDONESIA 90% POLYESTER, 10% ELASTANE HKD129

6. FOREVER21 MADE IN INDONESIA 95% RAYON, 5% SPANDEX HKD99.90

7. FOREVER21 MADE IN INDONESIA 87% NYLON, 13% SPANDEX HKD159

8. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM SHELL 1 92% COTTON, 8% SPANDEX SHELL 2 85% NYLON, 15% SPANDEX HKD129

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / MESH AND SHEER

SPORTY MESH & SHEER

1. PROENZA SCHOULER MADE IN ITALY 58% VISCOSE, 28% COTTON, 14% POLYESTER HKD6,400

2. ADIDAS X STELLA MCCARTNEY MADE IN INDIA 92% POLYAMIDE, 8% ELASTANE HKD1,200

3. Y3 X ADIDAS MADE IN CHINA 94% ORGANIC COTTON, 6% ELASTANE HKD4,900

4. PARTICLE FEVER MADE IN CHINA 92% POLYSTER, 8% ELASTINE HKD590

8 5. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN CHINA OVERLAY 100% POLYESTER HKD559

6. NEW BALANCE MADE IN VIETNAM BODY 100% POLYURETHANE SOLE 100% RUBBER HKD700

8. CALVIN KLEIN MADE IN SRI LANKA 82% POLYESTER, 18% SPANDEX HKD1,490

7. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN CHINA NEOPRENE UPPER WITH ELASTIC OVERLAY MESH LINING HKD599 9. PUMA X STAMPD MADE IN VIETNAM ULTRA-THIN SUEDE TONGUE HIGH ABRASION RESISTANT RUBBER HKD1,590

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / MESH AND SHEER

SPORTY MESH & SHEER

10. FOREVER21 MADE IN CHINA 70% POLYAMIDE, 30% ELASTANE HKD149

11. FOREVER21 MADE IN PHILIPPINES 100% POLYESTER HKD219

12. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM BODY 90% POLYAMIDE, 10% ELASTANE MESH 80% POLYAMIDE, 20% ELASTANE HKD99.90

13. FOREVER21 MADE IN PHILIPPINES 92% POLYAMIDE, 8% ELASTANE HKD85.90

14. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 100% POLYESTER HKD129

15. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM SHELL 1 95% RAYON, 5% SPANDEX SHELL 2 95% POLYESTER, 5% SPANDEX HKD139

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / COLOR-BLOCKING

COLOR MY LIFE

1. NOKAOI MADE IN USA 70% COTTON, 22% NYLON HKD2,700

2. NOKAOI MADE IN USA 71% POLYAMIDE, 29% ELASTANE HKD1,700

3. MONREAL LONDON MADE IN LITHUANIA BODY 74% POLYAMIDE, 26% ELASTANE LINING 73% POLYAMIDE, 27% ELASTANE HKD1,250

4. MONREAL LONDON MADE IN PORTUGAL 73% POLYESTER, 27% ELASTANE HKD2,600

5. LAAIN MADE IN LITHUANIA 80% POLYESTER, 20% ELASTANE HKD1,300

6. NIKE MADE IN SRI LANKA 80% NYLON, 20 SPANDEX HKD599

7. LIVE THE PROCESS MADE IN USA 100% POLYESTER HKD1,100

8. ADIDAS X STELLA MCCARTNEY MADE IN INDIA 80% POLYESTER, 20% ELASTANE HKD800

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / COLOR-BLOCKING

COLOR MY LIFE

9. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 92% COTTON, 8% SPANDEX HKD159

10. H&M MADE IN CHINA 84% POLYESTER, 16% ELASTANE PANELS 82% POLYESTER, 18% ELASTANE HKD399

11. H&M MADE IN CHINA 88% COTTON, 12% POLYESTER HKD299

12. H&M MADE IN BANGLADESH 984% POLYESTER, 16% ELASTANE HKD299

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / ATHLETIC STRIPES

NEW ATHLETIC STRIPES

1. ADIDAS X ALEXANDER WANG MADE IN CHINA 100% POLYESTER HKD5,000

2. ADIDAS X ALEXANDER WANG MADE IN CHINA 79% COTTON, 21% POLYESTER VELOUR HKD1,400

3. ADIDAS X ALEXANDER WANG MADE IN TURKEY 100% COTTON FLEECE HKD1,200

4. ADIDAS X ALEXANDER WANG MADE IN CHINA 100% POLYESTER JACQUARD HKD860

5. NOKAOI MADE IN USA 70% COTTON, 22% NYLON HKD2,200

6. ZARA MADE IN TURKEY 100% POLYESTER HKD399

7. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 60% COTTON, 40% POLYESTER HKD419

8. H&M MADE IN BANGLADESH 80% POLYESTER, 20% ELASTANE HKD299

SPRING 2017 ATHLEISURE TRENDS / ATHLETIC STRIPES

NEW ATHLETIC STRIPES

9. H&M MADE IN BANGLADESH 92% POLYESTER, 8% ELASTANE HKD199

10. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 100% POLYESTER LINING 85% POLYESTER, 15% ELASTANE HKD99.90

11. FOREVER21 MADE IN PHILIPPINES 90% POLYESTER, 10% SPANDEX HKD99.90

12. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 70% POLYESTER, 30% COTTON HKD149

13. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 100% POLYESTER HKD139

14. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 100% POLYESTER HKD139

15. FOREVER21 MADE IN INDONEDIA 46% POLYAMIDE, 42% POLYESTER, 12% ELASTANE HKD99.90

16. FOREVER21 MADE IN VIETNAM 70% COTTON, 30% POLYESTER HKD85.90

GIRL-APPROVED

HOODIES

HOODIE

The hoodie plays an important role in the history of sportswear, hip-hop and street culture. It is often associated with the youth-driven culture of punk, hip-hop, and skateboarding. Similar to the sweatshirt, the garment was also used as an advertising tool to “express iconoclastic and sometimes criminal subtext” (Wilson, 2012). By the 1970’s however, the trend transitioned into expressive text and illustrations, and this is seen in today’s assortments. With the rise of extreme outdoor sports during the 1980’s and the founding of hip-hop as a cultural phenomenon, a new era of cool was infused into the current sweatshirt and hoodie. Logos have also started to become a decorative function, rather than for establishing a brand’s identity. This is most prominent with luxury athelsiure brands, such as LNDR. High-street brands on the other hand, such as Forever 21 featured motivational statements instead. With an increased in on-going lifestyles with Millennials leading to relaxed dress codes in various locations, it has now become acceptable to wear hoodies and sweatshirts in formal settings too. This is further shown with the rise in luxury brands tapping into the athleisure market at Lane Crawford. Pricings are also correlated to the manufacturing location of garments, with high-street brands displaying made in Vietnam, while apparel of luxury brands are made in USA, China, and Portugal. Based on the styling of these garments, functional purposes are depcited through loose silhouettes and fabric qualities; with Forever 21 and Na Ka ‘Oi introducing windproof styles. Nonetheless, the athleisure aspect is most prominent, with the addition of decorative lines, coloured patches, and colour block to appeal to the fashion and fitness-conscious Millennial consumer. Yet, high-street brands often portray trends through colourful prints and patterns, while luxury designer brands stay loyal to minimalistic aesthetics. Another important aspect to note though, is the utilisation of thicker layers of fabrics for apparel compared to high-street. Not only does this improve durablity, it indicates superior quality and value for price. Overall, the key colours to look out for the upcoming year is the use of greys, and blacks, with the additional blue and pink for high-street brands that sought inspiration from the catwalk. Furthermore, loose but slim silhouettes, deocrative trims, and bold slogans are other forecasted components, especially with the rise in political tensions and the need to differentiate and stand out in an already highly saturated market. However, the stylistic appeal may center around the younger generations who arel not only more influenced by the steetwear culture, but are also fashion-minded or brand specific.

MATCHY MATCHY

MATCHY TOP AND BOTTOM Although the sports bras or crop tops, and shorts, sweatpants or leggings combination has already been prevalent for many years, its recent transition back to the street is said to be influenced by the rise of the fitness trend. This trend thus impacted the popularity of yoga classes, dance studios, and gymgoers. Leggings are also an integral part of athleisure fashion, due to consumers’ increasing demands and pressure from both their personal lives and jobs, causing a preference of comfort over fashion. By the 2010’s, the sportswear industry and consumers shifted towards spiritual exercises, such as yoga and pilates. The domination of Lululemon in the legging sector with their ethical and high-tech fabrics, also caused a further increase in demand, and soon athletic wear began to merge with street wear. The growth in fitness-conscious consumers and Millennials who believe in health and wellness as an active everyday pursuit, are other influencers. Aside from eating the right foods, individuals must also exercisie to stay in shape. However, since Millennials are also the most fashion-conscious group as well, garments must be both on-trend and stylish. Based on the styling of these garments, functional purposes are shown through garment types and fabric qualities, such as racerback sports bras and more supportive leggings. The athleisure aspect is also included, with the addition of colourful prints and patterns, decorative logos, and bold statements. Some pairings were intentional, while some were mixed and matched, whereby certain garments feature similar elements to others. Bold motivational statements are again utilised in high-street brands such as H&M, while the idea of the logo being used as a decorative function is seen in mid-market and luxury brands. Calvin Klein, Adidas, and Arena featured printed versions, while Nike and LNDR played around with embriodery. Contrasting colours seen in fastenings, pipings, and patterns are also evident, with H&M and LNDR portraying elements of colour blocking, while Nike and Arena played with piping. Adidas and Forever 21; however, went the opposite route and contrasted bright colours with darker coloured drawstrings and bands. This overall trend was immensely popular with athleisure looks on the spring summer 2017 catwalk. Nonetheless, Koral featured camoflougue prints, which is an upcoming trend and possibly a reference to the current wars and tension between other countries. The brand updated the print with contrasting colours ranging from neons, pastels, and monochromes. Although luxury brands featured duller colours, while high-street brands utlised pastel colours, mid-market sportswear brands kept to their brand aesthetic of bold neon colours. Pricings of garments again correlate to the manufacturing location of garments, with cheap high-street brands displaying made in Bangladesh and China, mid-market brands had apparel made in China, India and Sri Lanka, while expensive luxury brand apparels were typically made in USA and Portugal. Nonethless, the key colours to look out for the upcoming year is the use of greys, blacks, and royal blues for luxury brands, neon yellows and dark contrasting hues for mid-market sportswear brands, and soft pink pastels for high-street brands. In addition, loose but slim silhouettes, slit shorts, paneled leggings and sweatpants, and bold slogans are other forecasted components to look out for. The transition of racerback sports bras to thin strap bralette type styles may be in the works as well. 30

GIRL UNIFORM

MATCHING TRACKSUITS The space trend and creation of ‘space-age’ technology during the 1960’s, led to the creation of tracksuits as a reflection of astronaut suits. Designers often combined synthetic nylon fabrics in order to produce a matching monochromatic top and bottom set. Although consumers were wary of the style during the 60’s, Adidas catapulted the style into popularity. Tracksuits were typically worn for sport activities, but the 1970’s onwards saw the garment blending with the fashion trends of the decade. Evidence of reference is still prevalent today, with flare trackpants being released, and the comeback of the Juicy Couture tracksuit. The emergence of the tracksuit in dance and hip-hop culture was also common, especially during the breakdancing scene. Its relation to hip-hop stems after the 1990’s, when the music scene saw celebrities like Jay-Z and Diddy launching the idea that tracksuits can be worn as daily wear or as a luxury statement. The 2000’s pushed this status symbol even further with the Juicy Couture velour tracksuits being worn by celebrities, before trickling down into the streets and wardrobes of teenage girls. Nowadays however, the tracksuit has incorporated minimalism as the main design attribute, and styles soon became monochromatic and simplified, but with the overall revival of past designs. With the influence of athleisure in both Womenswear and Menswear, consumers actively seek out comfortable, versatile, and street cool looks. Based on the styling of these garments, functional purposes are shown through fabric qualities, such as Adidas’s lightweight black and white short tracksuit. In terms of this trend, the athleisure aspect is the most prominent with all luxury, midmarket, and high-street brands. In order to appeal to the fashion-conscious Millennial consumer, brands played around with floral prints, stripes, and decorative logos. Adidas Originals even showcased a t-shirt and skirt pairing, as well as striped boxy casual wear tops with lounge-type shorts. It can be argued that the stripes featured resemble the Adidas three stripes, yet it could have been inspired by the strip trend currently infiltrating the market. H&M on the other hand created their own rendition of the iconic Adidas tracksuit, but replaced the three stripes with contrasting white panelling details. H&M also sought out Juicy Couture for inspiration, with the material and style of the pink short-length tracksuit mimicing their famous velour versoins. Logos used as a decorative function is seen in luxury brands, especially Juicy Couture who featured their brand name either on the front or back of garments. Mid-market sportswear brand Adidas on the other hand, remained loyal to its brand identity, and played around with its three stripes panelling aesthetic instead. Although manufacturing location of garments play a role in the pricing structure of brands, some luxury brands are a limiting factor. High-street brands had tracksuits made in Bangladesh and China, mid-market brands had apparel made in Indonesia and Vietnam, while designer brand Juicy Couture, also displayed made in Vietnam. Overall, the main colours to look out for the upcoming year is the use of greys, blacks, red, and pinks. Luxury brands are predicted to feature brighter colours, while high street and mid-market brands stick to subdued hues. In addition, panelling and nature prints will continue to trickle into the market, along with the slimming of silhouettes and the pairing of skirts instead of shorts or trackpants.

BACK TO NATURE

NATURE-INSPIRED PRINTS Aside from trends in apparel or accessories, other influences can be seen through prints, patterns, and detailing. Every spring and summer, nature prints such as florals dominate the market, but the rising yearning for the beach, tropics, and jungles in the summer is not one to be missed too. Coastal blues, flashes of yellow, fire red, and jungle greens were among the most prominent colours this season. For high-street brands such as H&M, garments featured safari prints ranging from tiger motifs to leopard spots, while Forever 21 played it safe with monochrome floral prints. Mid-market sportswear brands like Adidas Originals also utilised flowers, but took a bold and colorful approach to it instead. Luxury brands on the other hand, took a vintage approach and introduced small dainty or watercolour florals. Tropical prints such as the palm leaves were evident in luxury brands such as The Upside Sport, and mid-market brand Adidas Originals as well. Therefore, this trend is evidently trickling down into other markets. Based on the styling and prints of these garments, the athleisure aspect is thus the most prominent factor among all brands. With the need to appeal to the fashion-conscious Millennial consumer, brands must include popular prints and patterns in order to capture their attention. For this theme, logos were only prevalent in Adidas Original, but several renditions have been performed in order to assert its decorative function and brand identity. As mentioned before, manufacturing location of garments often play an important role in the pricing structure of brands; however, some luxury brands are still a limiting factor. A majority of apparel from these brands was made in China, with a few from Cambodia, and the USA. Overall, the main colour combination to look out for in terms of nature prints are the use of blues, whites, and yellows, with watercolour or vintage aesthetics. Types of prints on other hand include bold or dainty florals, geometric strips of colours, palm trees, zebra stripes, leopard spots, animal motifs, and many more. Yet, in terms of garments, these prints are predicted to be most prevalent on tops and leggings.

PLAYING

CUT-OUTS

PEEKABOO

Another future styling trend to consider is cutouts and shredded fabrics. Initially seen in catwalks and the high street; in order to appeal to the styleconscious Millennial consumer, athleisure and sportswear brands begun infusing fashion-led designs into products. Brands from all levels featured very similar styles, with differences ranging in quality and durability. For high street brands, garments featured crisscross cutouts on sleeves or sides of leggings or sweatpants, while luxury brands typically utilised large cutouts at the back of tops. Purposeful shreds surrounding the garment though, were seen at New Balance. Contrast cutouts in terms of piping, and shredded fabrics were also seen in high-street brands, such as Forever 21. Pricing for this theme though, correlated well to the manufacturing location of garments. High-street brands mainly sourced cutout apparel from Indonesia, while mid-market such as New Balance looked to China and Turkey. Luxury brands on the other hand, had garments made in the USA. Nonetheless, the key colours to consider for this trend, will depend on the additional aesthetic detailing added. If 3D cutouts are intended, then possible contrasting of colours may be evident, as shown by Forever 21. Trickling down from the ripped denim trend dominating the market, athleisure and sportswear garments may therefore continue to see knotted cutouts, crisscross cutouts, and shredded fabrics.

SPORTY MESH AND SHEER MESH AND SHEER

The use of sheer and mesh fabrics is another trend impacting the athleisure and sportswear industry. Fabrics range from lightweight to heavyweight depending on the type of garment. Brands have also begun incorporating this trend into their footwear category, with the introduction of the Nike FlyKnit, and Adidas PrimeKnit impacting the sales of other brands. In order to compete, brands such as New Balance and Puma also featured their own renditions, with Puma using a full mesh top, while New Balance aesthetically applied it to side panels of shoes. Adidas on the other hand, recreated their iconic crisscross slip-ons with a large grey-pink circular mesh layer under the ‘X’. Luxury brands looked to accessories as well, with Calvin Klein’s release of a white mesh bucket bag, with black contrast detailing. In terms of the fashion versus functionality appeal of garments, high street brands featured more stylish activewear with sheer shorts, mesh and striped t-shirts, and contrasting mesh sleeves seen in Forever 21. Mid-market brands also infused fashion-led designs into products, with Adidas Originals introducing a long black mesh t-shirt and boldly p rinted tank dress combination. Yet, Particle Fever focused on functionality with a mesh tank top and neon yellow contrasting top pairing. Luxury brands however remained loyal to the functional aspect of activewear, with Y-3 featuring sheer tank tops. Fashion-led designs were also considered, with Proenza Schouler’s red full circular mesh long-sleeve top. For this theme, logos were only prevalent in Adidas Original, in order to assert its decorative function and brand identity. In reference to pricing and garment manufacturing locations, high-street and mid-market brands looked to South East Asia and Asia, while luxury brands went to Italy for better quality but more expensive garments. Overall, the main colours to look out for in terms of sheer and mesh fabrics ranges from bold brights and neons, to monochrome blacks and whites. Other styling details that may continue to prevail include, large full or paneled circular mesh among all brand levels, and co-ord pairings mainly seen in midmarket brands.

COLOR

MY LIFE

COLOR-BLOCKING

Colour blocking has always been a prominent trend in the athleisure and sportswear industry. Garments were typically contrasted with bright neon panels or piping, and this is still evident today. Yet, there is also an influx of visually purposeful blocks or strips of colour. This is mainly prevalent in highstreet brands, whereby Forever 21 employed monochrome hues, while H&M played around with pastel and subdued hues. Mid-market brands such as Adidas and Nike, introduced contoured colour blocking into leggings, with additional same shade or contrasting piping details. Although the functional aspect of midmarket activewear is higher than those of the high-street brands, luxury brands attempted to combine fashion-led designs into their range of sportswear as well. Na Ko ‘Oi took the trend a step further with the addition of a white ruffle layer to a cold-shoulder top. Singular horizontal block of colour and contrast piping was seen at Monreal London, LAAIN experimented with white and neon panels against a blue base. Contoured colour blocking and neon green piping was also displayed at Na Ka ‘Oi, and may be seen as an inspiration to the designs of midmarket brands. In relation to the pricing structure of garments and their manufacturing locations, high street and mid-market brands looked to South East Asia and Asia, while luxury brands went to Lithuania and USA for better quality but pricier garments. Nonetheless, the key colours to note are definitely monochromes, with possible additions from pastel and neon hues. Yellows and pinks will be the most evident, as it has already been dominating the catwalk and high-street markets. Furthermore, by taking this approach, sportswear brands can better appeal to the fashion-conscious Millennial group dominating the athleisure trend. Other styling details that may prevail include, horizontal blocks of colours, contoured colour blocking, neon or contrasting decorative piping details on hems and fabrics, as well as, intersecting strips of colours.

NEW ATHLETIC STRIPES STRIPES

The use of stripes in athleisurewear and activewear can range from side paneling to parallel rows similar to Adidas. Darker-based and basic garments were typically either contrasted with bright or neon colours. Yet, there is also an influx of visually purposeful strips of colour. This is most prevalent on the high street, with Forever 21 featuring white, black, violet, and rainbow coloured stripes on the side of shorts. Luxury brands on the other hand, introduced stripes to printed garments as seen in The Upside Sport. Brands such as Na Ka ‘Oi, utilised colour blocking methods to represent thicker and bolder stripes instead. Luxury brands also played around with monochromes or darker hues, while high street and mid-market brands employed paler colours, with black and whites too. As shown from the influx of patterns and prints featured in luxury branded apparel, it is thus evident that they valued the stylish aspect of athleisurewear more compared to the high street and mid-market brands. Na Ka ‘Oi utilised aesthetically purposeful colour blocks, while The Upside sport employed floral prints to contrast against black side panels and rolled hems. High-street brands including Forever 21, placed more emphasis on functionality, as made prominent by plain styles. However, styling details such as neon yellow drawstrings and orange tank top straps added a sense of flair to designs. In terms of the pricing structure of garments and their manufacturing locations, all brands predominantly looked to Asia, with luxury brands choosing it for less complex garments. Nonetheless, the key colours to note are definitely monochromes, neon yellows, and pastel as well. Metallic accents and slogans dominating the catwalk will most possible remain in the high-street market, while prints and coloured stripes will be evident for luxury brands. Hence, by taking this approach, brands can also better appeal to the fashion-conscious Millennial group, who make up majority of the athleisure market. Additional styling details that may triumph include, intersecting strips of colours, thin to thick colourful stripes, and contrasting piping details.

SPRING 2017 FASHION TRENDS / PINK & YELLOW

MILLENNIAL COLORS

1. ZARA MADE IN CHINA OUTER SHELL 100% POLYESTER MAIN LINING 100% VISCOSE HKD799

2. ZARA MADE IN BANGLADESH 100% COTTON HKD69

3. H&M MADE IN TURKEY 100% COTTON HKD149

4. ZARA MADE IN TURKEY 100% POLYAMIDE TOP HKD399

5. ATHLETIC PROPULSION LABS MADE IN USA UPPER 100% TEXTILE SOLE 100% RUBBER HKD1,800

6. ZARA MADE IN INDIA 95% POLYESTER, 4% ELASTANE HKD89

7. H&M MADE IN CAMBODIA 66% POLYESTER, 30% VISCOSE HKD179

8. TOPSHOP MADE IN ROMANIA 100% POLYESTER HKD489

9. TOPSHOP MADE IN MAIN 82% POLYAMIDE, 18% ELASTANE LINING 93% POLYAMIDE, 7% ELASTANE HKD249

10. TOPSHOP MADE IN MAURITUS 88% FAUX LEATHER TOP HKD299

11. TOPSHOP MADE IN TURKEY 100% TEXTILE HKD260

12. ZARA MADE IN PORTUGAL 85% VELVET, 15% RUBBER HKD260

SPRING 2017 FASHION TRENDS / STATEMENT

CLOTHES SPEAK FOR ME

1. MOSCHINO MADE IN ROMANIA 70% COTTON, 30% POLYESTER HKD3,300

2. OLIVE & FRANK MADE IN UK 100% POLYESTER HKD800

3. NANAMICA MADE IN JAPAN 50% COTTON, 50% POLYESTER HKD900

4. ADIDAS ORIGINAL MADE IN VIETNAM 100% COTTON TOP HKD599

5. MSGM MADE IN ITALY 100% COTTON HKD3,499

6. HYEIN SEO MADE IN KOREA 95% POLYESTER, 4% ELASTANE HKD6,400

7. TOPSHOP MADE IN CAMBODIA 66% POLYESTER, 30% VISCOSE HKD179

8. H&M MADE IN INDONESIA 97% VISCOSE, 3% ELASTANE HKD99.90

9. H&M MADE IN TURKEY 51% POLYESTER, 49% COTTON HKD149

10. H&M MADE IN INDIA 100% ORGANIC COTTON HKD39.90

11. H&M MADE IN INDIA 100% ORGANIC COTTON HKD39.90

12. H&M MADE IN CAMBODIA 86% POLYESTER, 14% ELASTANE HKD179

SPRING 2017 FASHION TRENDS / FLORAL PATTERN

HEAD TO TOE FLORALS

1. DRIES VAN NOTEN MADE IN ROMANIA 88% WOOL, 9% COTTON, 3% SILK HKD13,500

2. STELLA MCCARTNEY MADE IN UK 100% COTTON HKD4,690

3. NANAMICA MADE IN JAPAN 80% COTTON, 30% POLYESTER HKD6,000

4. DRES VAN NOTEN MADE IN ROMANIA 66% COTTON, 34% VISCOSE TOP HKD11,500

5. SAINT LAURENT PARIS MADE IN ITALY 100% COTTON, SILK LINING HKD28,600

6. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN MADE IN ITALY 100% SILK HKD28,600

7. ZARA MADE IN INDIA 100% COTTON HKD249

8. ZARA MADE IN MOROCCO 97% VISCOSE, 3% ELASTANE HKD299

9. H&M MADE IN TURKEY 100% VISCOSE HKD499

10. ZARA MADE IN INDIA 96% POLYESTER, 4% ELASTANE HKD249

11. ZARA MADE IN SPAN 100% COTTON HKD499

12. ZARA MADE IN MOROCCO 100% VISCOSE HKD499

SPRING 2017 FASHION TRENDS / CHECKERED PATTERN

CHECKERED CHIC

1. TOGA ARCHIVES MADE IN JAPAN 65% COTTON, 35% POLYESTER HKD14,500

2. TOPSHOP MADE IN CHINA 92% POLYESTER, 5% ELASTANE, 3% VISCOSE HKD529

3. TOPSHOP MADE IN ROMANIA 60% COTTON, 40% POLYESTER HKD479

4. TOPSHOP MADE IN ROMANIA 76% POLYESTER, 24% VISCOSE HKD359

5. TOPSHOP MADE IN TURKEY 86% VISCOSE, 12% POLYAMIDE, 2% ELASTANE HKD529

6. TOPSHOP MADE IN TURKEY 100% COTTON HKD399

7. ZARA MADE IN MOROCCO 100% COTTON HKD249

8. ZARA MADE IN INDIA 100% COTTON HKD399

9. H&M MADE IN TURKEY 100% COTTON HKD399

10. ZARA MADE IN TURKEY 72% COTTON, 28% VISCOSE HKD399

11. ZARA MADE IN CHINA 100% COTTON HKD299

12. ZARA MADE IN INDIA 81% POLYESTER, 12% ELASTANE, 7% VISCOSE HKD199

SPRING 2017 FASHION TRENDS / STRIPES

STATEMENT STRIPES

1. THE EDITOR MADE IN ITALY 89% COTTON, 8% ACRYLIC, 1% VISCOSE, 1% POLYAMIDE HKD2,100

2. ALEXANDER WANG MADE IN CHINA 100% VIRGIN WOOL HKD9,100

3. SACAI MADE IN JAPAN 100% COTTON HKD7,200

4. PROENZA SCHOULER MADE IN ITALY 55% VISCOSE, 27% COTTON, 13% POLYESTER, 5% POLYAMIDE TOP HKD10,056

5. J.W. ANDERSON MADE IN UK FABRIC 1 100% COTTON FABRIC 2 78% COTTON, 16% POLYAMIDE, 6% ELASTANE HKD9,400

6. STELLA MCCARTNEY MADE IN SPAIN 91% COTTON, 9% ELASTANE HKD5,090

7. ZARA MADE IN TURKEY 97% POLYESTER, 3% ELASTANE HKD399

8. ZARA MADE IN VIETNAM 64% COTTON, 36% ELASTANE HKD249

9. H&M MADE IN INDIA 99% COTTON, 1% ELASTANE HKD179

10. ZARA TRAFALUC MADE IN CAMBODIA 94% POLYESTER, 6% ELASTANE HKD199

11. ZARA MADE IN MOROCCO 100% LYOCELL HKD299

12. H&M DIVIDED MADE IN INDONESIA 100% VISCOSE HKD149

CONTENTS 04

STATEMENT STRIPES

CHECKERED CHIC

HEAD TO TOE FLORALS

CLOTHES SPEAK FOR ME

MILLENNIAL COLORS

STRIPES

CHECKERED PATTERN

FLORAL PATTERN

STATEMENT

PINK & YELLOW

FASM419 SPRING 2017 CURRENT TRENDS AND FORECASTING

SHOP COMPARISON REPORT SPRING 2017 FASHION TRENDS PRODUCED BY

NICOLE CHEONG CHLOE, YUJUNG CHUNG CHI-HANG WONG DESIGNED BY

CHI-HANG WONG