As we wrap up 2012, apparel suppliers are preparing to introduce their newest products inspired by seasonal changes and flattering fits. Upcoming fashion trends for 2013 include a variety of bright colors like compass gold and purple orchid, additions to wovens like polos with pockets, and versatile designs like athletic wear that can be worn to the office. Take a look below for a sneak peek of what is about to become popular in casual, corporate and active apparel.
Casual Wear
Trends: According to Elson Yeung, product line manager of design at Ash City USA, Lenexa, Kan., casual wear in 2013 is suited for the ever-changing weather. “Casual wear will get its inspiration from being prepared for all climates in 2013,” he said. Ash City plans to offer comfortable, waterproof jackets, and practical polos that can be worn at the course or the clubhouse.
The first step of weatherproofing apparel is picking the right fabric. “Performance, print and texture continue to be key with fabrication,” Yeung noted. “A fabrication’s visual appeal is as critical as performance and styling this season.” For Ash City, he listed new fabric trends such as embossed-print linings, two-tone shirts, hounds tooth, color-dyed mélange jersey and variegated rip stop fabrics.
Colors: Yeung predicted the popularity of bright hues in 2013. “The popular shades we can expect to see will be bright and pleasant tones to expand our color pallet from the go-to shades of black and navy,” he said. He offered campus gold, true royal, ink blue, purple orchid and oak moss as examples of popular color choices.
Men vs. Women: The industry continues to strive for well-fit garments, with more women’s fits available. “Women’s specific details include adjustability at the waist to slim the silhouette of the body versus the traditional adjustable systems at the hem,” Yeung said. “This offers great personalized tailoring with the simple touch of an adjustable tab or cinch of a shock cord,” he added. Small details such as detachable hoods will also set women’s designs apart from their men’s companion styles. Yeung noted end-buyers have requested this change. “Our detachable hood system was applied to a few of our women’s styles versus their non-hooded men’s companion styles. This decision was based on preferences directly from the feedback of our customers,” he explained.
Juniors: Children’s wear can be a difficult market if you want to sell more than just school uniforms. Yeung suggested targeting what parents want and working from there. “With youth apparel, comfort and durability will continue to take precedence as these are the first concerns of parents when considering clothing for their children,” said Yeung. He suggested durable, snag-protection polo and oxford shirts, as well as moisture-wicking fleece hoodies.
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