Seeing the trends for S/S 2013 were a real surprise to me. I pride myself on my nouse and nose for predicting what’s next. It’s a simple formula. The shapes of trousers are completely opposite, skirt lengths go up and down faster than the FTSE and the palette of colour normally morphs from season to season and changes completely for the next year; neons become pastels, berry shades become inky, and as for themes, do you ever remember a Spring without the nautical blue and white combo? Or a year when military style was stood down? It seems there are more themes than normal to choose from, and with technological advances in textiles, the speed of manufacturing and multiple role models, the surprising thing about the 2013 collections is that the designers and influencers seem to be showing a conscience, not only for the environment but for the state of the economy.
I swore when I was about 14 and neons came in for the first time that I would never ever wear yellow. Ever. But here I am, fourth season running, looking forward to having a golden tan to show off golden yellow items that are threatening to fly out of the shops having been seen on the runways again. Shades of banana, custard and lemon curd will surely brighten our spirits in this gloomy time.
And have you noticed the elaborate printing and beading in vogue this year? This is not a cheap process no matter how far East your production is, but this sign, is just one of many, that shows fashionistas will not be deterred or depressed by the financial situation the whole world seems to be in.
Full skirts are fashionable again for the first time in donkeys – or at least for the first time since donkey jackets were in (and if you don’t member those, you will be coveting one soon). Again, the amount of fabric is excessive for the economic climate, and not content to stop with meters of cloth, layers and layers of chiffon and frills, laser cut fabrics, feathers and net, pleats and intricate patterns have taken over the below the knee brigade – such exuberance hasn’t been witnessed since the busted boom of the 80’s.
And talking of exuberance, the shine factor from the silks, satins and metallic will surely have bankers reaching for their shades. Embroidery is in evidence on leather and the texture tailors have invented fabrics that will have you running to your mum to wash them with care.
There is no denying that mass manufacturing, Internet shopping and globalisation have had a positive effect on the fashion industry, which has resulted in there being no denying the fashionistas. My fashion tip? Make the most of these tough times, when the economy bounces back, we could be back in Lycra-less grey flannel.
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