Class-Fashion Design
Step 1: Start Seeking Trends
Thanks to the internet, many of the same tools that fashion forecasters have are at your disposal. Search the internet for recent fashion shows, which will indicate what is coming up next season. Look at recent fashion shows in major cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, to see where American fashion is headed. If you have recent print magazines that focus on fashion, you can use those as well. Notice the advertisements you see on the pages or as you scroll, and consider how those ads affect fashion trends. Think about where a particular look is in the fashion cycle. Is it edgy, trendy, popular, or a blast from the past?
Step 2: Search Based on Geography
Next, do some internet research on global trends. Look specifically at Paris fashion shows. You can also see what the major fashion magazines have on their websites in the European divisions. Fortunately, you don’t need to read French to know what is highlighted in French fashion. Take a few moments to check out Tokyo as well. If you happen to have recent French or Japanese fashion magazines, use those too.
Step 3: Focus on Celebrity Influencers
Finally, check celebrity gossip magazines or celebrity gossip websites to see what famous people are wearing around town and to formal events. Then look at Instagram and other social media to see what online influencers are emphasizing.
Step 4: Choose Two Trends
Based on your research, select two trends that you expect to see in American stores next year. Take notes to organize your thoughts.
Step 5: Create Your Fashion Forecast
Create a presentation that showcases the two trends. You can complete this using slideshow software, or you can use art supplies to make a poster or triptych that shows your results. If you prefer, you can use a hybrid method, with words in the slideshow software and visuals on a poster. Organize your presentation around these questions:
• How would you describe these two trends?
• Where have you seen them? Identify specific fashion publications or websites.
• How do they compare with trends of the past and trends of today?
• What makes you think North American manufacturers, buyers, stores, and customers will invest in them?
Step 6: Present Your Research and Analysis
Make your presentation to your classmates. Then discuss whether they share your belief that these trends will soon be coming to a store near you.
