Petite Petite Spring/Summer 2020
On The Prairie This spring trend explores a growing urge to reconnect with nature while extending the lifespan of the garment for better sustainability. The need for a slower, more considered pace of life inspires this countryside trend, with a focus on patchwork and dainty florals. Styled with vintage references and organic cotton.
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otton, linen, straw, raffia, oh my! Mother’s are becoming more and more interested in sustainable and ethical companies when looking for their children. It’s becoming a trend to support companies not only for their cute designs but strong brand values. Transparency with products, materials, and the overall supply chain are encouraging mothers everywhere to take a second look. The rise of sustainable and organic childrenswear brands are on the rise do to this high demand. Brands are being created from the need to protect children’s sensitive skin while paying close attention to detail. Organic cotton and organic linen are the most popular fabrications for children’s skin. Bebe Organic, a very popular sustainable brand mission statement reads, “Skin friendly natural and organic products that nurture you, your child and nature! We care about children’s sensitive skin and would like that all children grow up in a pure, beautiful, chemical-free world.” Popular brands include Bebe Organic, Savage Seeds, Ultra Violet Kids, Wil + Frida, Little Circle, Little Moon Society, and more. The tide of fast fashion is slowly going out of style as savvy shoppers are becoming increasingly aware of the social and environmental impact it leaves behind. Reduce, reuse, and recycle are also popular trends within retail and mothers.
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Leaving a smaller footprint on the environment and buying “smarter’ to encourage clothing longevity. Children’s clothing is on such a short life cycle it’s important not to forget this sector of fashion when considering the rise of sustainability. Not only does this trend apply in fabrications but also in accessories where we would commonly use leather, harsh chemicals, dyes, and more. Leather is being replaced with environmentally friendly recycled fruits and vegetables like mushrooms and bananas turned into leather. New technologies are being created to create less water when producing and washing clothing while using allnatural dyes and printing techniques. Accessories are favored in straw, raffia, and PET plastic. Trends for womens-wear and the past come full circle for children-swear clothing as well. Brands are finding a cute alternative for popular trends with a sustainable mindset. Cotton, linen, raffia, recycled polyester, and biodegradable fabrications are most common. These materials are some of the first materials used when designing clothing and accessories in the past. They’re often associated with an easier life on the farm or prairie when the world was simple. Spring and Summer 2020 is all about comfort and ease. Summery dresses with playful gingham, floral, and patchwork prints to represent the iconic look of “prairie life”. Pair it with prairie Victorian tops, rompers, pinafores, bloomers, and flowy skirts for ease and comfort.
This trend takes inspiration from vintage pieces combining with a new state of mind when dressing your baby. Colors are inspired by nature and neutral hues. Straw hats and bonnets are a key piece for the season to protect your skin from the sun. Pair it with easy slip on boots for exploring around the farm. Embroidery, crochet,and weaving become key detailed fabrications instead of using harmful dyes and plastic for an added touch. A mini pioneer is creates a simple mood with earthy colors and modest silhouettes. Silhouettes take inspiration from classic on the farm silhouettes with a rustic feel. Each brand gives a modern take on this trend. Pieces designed by hand and whole-made to incorporate the simple life and rethinking who is making your clothes. Mothers feel better about what fabrics are being used and are willing to spend more for love and care to go into each garment. Going back to a care-free, beautiful, and chemical free world!
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Prairie & Play Pretty prints and delicate eyelet and knit designs. Mix and match prints and patterns for easy dressing. This spring is about comfort and breath-ability. Dress it up with straw and small cotton accessories.
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Madelynne Nagel
FASH Prof.Fionda
Current Trends + Forecasting