Narrative
Descriptive Story:
i.How did you arrive at this forecast? Be specific.
This forecast is the result of a team effort to perform research, evaluation, and draw conclusions on the common theme. Our group created a scan plan to define and schedule how each member would complete research, including field research by going to events like cat walks, observing people at the local mall. In addition, the effort included a good amount of desk research such as watching catwalks online, and looking at Pinterest or Instagram for remarkable items. Throughout this process, each group member contributed 25 different sources showing inspirational pieces that are influential to fashion trends. Overall, 100 sources were evaluated and narrowed down to create a portfolio. The portfolio describes the common denominator which we describe as the trend of adapting classics from past decades into fresh styles that feminine, romantic and chic.
ii.What evidence do you have to support this forecast?
The research completed to arrive at the forecast provided repeated evidence to support our conclusion that a take on classic styles was a strong fashion trend for upcoming seasons. Clustering technique was used to highlight the strongest similarities across 100 various sources, including renaissance dress styles from the 20’s. This became a starting point for deeper research to validate the significance. Historical research was completed to identify the retro and vintage characteristics that were reappearing in today’s trends, including the works to document fashion from the 20’s 70’s and 90’s. Women’s Wear designer collections from Spring 2018 were then deeply considered to trace repeated patterns and themes. In doing so, it was apparent that fashion was moving to more feminine, loose, layered, and exotically embellished styles. These looks are reminiscent of those earlier iconic styles but presented in a fresh modern way.
iii.Did you use a directional theory of fashion change, Laver’s Law, the 20-year gap, or the pendulum swing of fashion? If so, how? What did it reveal or assist in revealing?
The forecast generated by our group describes a pendulum swing of fashion. After years of body-hugging and flesh-baring women’s styles, the pendulum has swung back to the other extreme. Our forecast describes the swing to layered styles, with feminine trims such as glitter, bows, feathers, and fur. These new styles are seemingly opposite from trends from recent years which now seem hard, minimalistic and overly sexy.
Trend Narrative:
The Modestly Chic woman is fashion forward New York City Native, that loves appearing as a mystery. Her style and choice of dress is conservative while being fun and wearing statement looks. She is inspired by being sexy and flirty, without showing too much skin. Modestly chic is an independent business woman, who is soft, classy and not afraid of bold color. Her wardrobe has very feminine pieces alongside oversized androgynous styles.
