TREND REPORT
a/w17
REMAIN UNCERTAIN “A trend is something that’s going to happen that’s really going to strike a chord amongst the ‘Joe Bloggs’, the people of our everyday society: something that we need to be aware of because it’s going to be impactful.” Alison Hughes, UK Agent, Carlin International (Higham, 2009: 4)
123 graphics & print
menswear
visual merchandising
SHOUT THAT STATEMENT Social and political activism is an apparent way of voicing your opinion, as well as speaking out on behalf of a united nation. From seeing this in 1984 on the pioneer of statement tee’s, Katherine Hamnett, to Ashish’s A/W17 catwalk show, this is a method of spilling feelings to draw attention and show support to the public eye through a graphic and print. Pairing with jeans for a casual approach like Cing à Sept or going high fashion with a satin fitted maxi skirt as seen at Christian Siriano, it is a cohesive way to display and demonstrate understanding of bigger issues in a fun, yet serious manner.
WEAR THAT HEART ON YOUR SLEEVE Whether your motif is reminiscent of historical figures, decorative design or a significant fragment. Embellished or embroidered. Floral or flamboyant. Just wear a heart on your sleeve and modern love all over.
FRAGMENTED BLUR Typography being the lead of this story, it takes a step back from being bold and is brought back down to focus on the simplicity of carefully selected types. Whether it has been cut and then pasted, experimented through layout or given a handcrafted malfunction; the result is fragmented and blurred.
MODERN MASCULINITY With the rise of gender fluidity and unisex clothing, it is no wonder why pink is making a reappearance in Menswear. It is taking back its pre-1950s connotation and is being seen as a masculine colour once again. This colour story is moving on from tailoring, and is translated onto oversized shapes and luxurious streetwear.
SHOWING STATEMENT Utility is being overemphasised through this story. The practicality of a pocket is stressed by amplifying the detail to make it more functional than ever. Whether its applied to outerwear or casual wear, the statement is one that has been repositioned so it cannot be missed.
JEWELED JUVENILE This noble fabric takes a turn for a fresher, edgier and relaxed appearance. Although its original connotations are still perceived through the dominance of jewel tones, it is being applied in a way that is unexpected with youth appeal.
BRING IT IN A trend driven from the outdoors, stemmed from the environment and human nature. Although wider issues may be impacting the trend, this time round it is wilder than ever with no limit to how overgrown it may become.
INNOCENT INSTALLATION The purity of white light shines between the integrated sources or are installed in an innocent and unknowing way. Propped against the wall or concealed, an element of understated elegance is portrayed. With the focus shifting to a contemporary wave it feels refreshing and streamlined.
WASTE NO MORE Consumers are beginning to demand sustainability to be industry standard, and not just a marketing ploy. In this new world of changing perception of what is beauty, waste is turned into something that looks and does good for the environment. It will be applied through props and fixtures, lighting and surface pattern.
HANNAH COLE N0618691