Trend Forecast – Views from India Fashion Forum 2011

  The fashion segment is almost second largest in India after food. In the next five years we can expect a 2-3 fold increase in apparel with a similar pattern in jewelry, if gold prices do not increase. So, there is a huge scope for business in fashion.

  India is a youth - dominated country. New categories are emerging as the youth gets a wallet and a voice. What is true and fascinating is the emergence of fusion. They are making discontinuous changes to their definition of fashion. Though the over lying want is of not being clones of each other and showing their cool quotient, the underlying commonality is promoting green and organic and the love of tradition.

  One of the speakers has underlined the need to look for the unexpected, in terms of proportion, colour and most importantly, texture. For Autumn 2011-12, the details would be hidden. Cancelled button plackets and pockets would allow fabrics and textures to play the key role. Digital printing would provide interest with subtle optical patterning.

Printing would move to jackets, coat and even trousers. Perspectives would be from futuristic to technological aspects to ancient rural traditions. Clever cutting and precision construction would really put shape at the forefront. On the colour palette the greys, chambray, reds and greens would dominate.

  For accessories, quite chunky knits and furs on bags and shoes would have the home crafted look and designs driven by functionality would rule.

  Ancient primitive aesthetics mixed with a very precise contemporary look will be seen during Spring Summer-2012.

  An important trend in the retail segment would be do-it-yourself. More and more brands would invite customers to translate their preferences into products, such as creating own fragrances and customized t-shirts. Technology will play a vital role in the future of the fashion retail industry.

  Constant change through innovative ideas about product range and display will keep the interest of the consumer. Surprise should be the key element.