Mega trends spring/summer 2019

With consumers realizing they have an abundance of ‘stuff’ in the form of multiple gadgets, appliances and personal possessions, there is a notable mood to pushing forward to outdoor experiences to share on social media and via group apps. With the trend for decluttering ‘stuff’ in the home to the work environment, it is the millennials, the 18-34 demographic, who are driving this mega trend. While mainstream retail will suffer, this is good news for the sports industry, as activities and experiences, shared on social media have much more kudos than having the latest must-have item. This is about taking time out, encountering new experiences and locations in the great outdoors through to more extreme sports, and most importantly sharing it.

We need to take a moment to realizethat sometimes less is more, as items are dismissed in turn for truly experiencing something different through travel to more extreme activities. From camping through to kite surfing, now is the time to bring in a balance, enjoy our leisure time and share with friends and followers.

A renewed efficiency comes into play as we clean up our act on the sustainability front. All sectors of the textile industry continue to pursue a path of cleaner technology and a higher level of eco know- how with reduced waste, elimination of harmful chemicals and a push in recycling. Energy and water saving processes also come through in this viable new future.Be clear, sustainability is here to stay and will be continuing on its progressive path in creating an enlightened textile industry be fitting the 21st Century and delivering to the demands of the consumer.

The pioneering and efficient processes from the textile chain cross over to the garments and accessories. We need to see enhanced performance and a function in the interaction of the fabrics and products with the wearer, generating next generation goods that effortlessly enhance and boost the experience. Multi functionality comes into play as does the ongoing mood for lightweight products combined witha new sensational touch, something that hasn’t featured much before.

Take a step back, breathe and realizeall the opportunities you are missing. In our frenzied, hyper-connected world we really need to take time out, go back to the fundamental aspects of being human and enjoying our time on planet earth. Now is the time to take a chill pill, escape the modern-day bedlam of 21st Century existence and create an oasis of time to recharge and make the most of the opportunities open to us. When one of the key points of advice proffered by mindfulness and self-help professionals comes down to breathing, elementary to our existence, it really is time to take a check up from the neck up and instill a harmonious balance in our lives.

This mega trend translates through tothe materials for the season, deliveringthe multi-functionality desired to finally achieve that work/life balance. Fabricswill sooth, nourish and deliver a renewed comfort as well as offer a sensual experience. In turn the ongoing for wellbeing and healthwear is influential to the collections coming through.

An overview of the three Megatrends is part of the brochure of Textile Trends, which you can download in English language free of charge: