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Fashion's future: the end of seasons

Written by Daniel P Dykes

No, this isn't some dire apocalyptic warning. In fact the only mention of climate change in this article comes only to state that it has nothing to do with it. So don't get scared. The sky isn't falling. But our trusty seasons are coming to an end.

That's the view of Li Edelkoort, head of the Paris-based forecasting agency Trend Union. As we begin to look at 2009's fashion trends Edelkoort is predicting that that lines we draw between Fall/Autumn-Winter and Spring-Summer will become seriously blurred, and that fashion may become seasonless altogether.

A blurring of seasonal boundaries within fashion, and traditional winter fare, like scarves, sweaters and hats, will become part of warm-weather wardrobes [as people embrace] seasonless dressing.

Edelkoort puts the change in taste down to "current economic and political woes" (read more on the effects of the economy on fashion here), but an increase in functional clothing purchases won't be the only consumer driven change.

Fashion in 2010 and beyond

Edelkoort is also predicting a change in the colours that fashionistas buy.

Consumers will favor rich hues, such as beetroot red and blueberry, and soft romantic shades, like rosy pink and mushroom beige, rather than vivid colors. While winter and summer palettes have been bright in recent seasons, Edelkoort suggested fashion brands should use restraint when working with color. "We won't want [fashion] to be too bright," she said.

2009 Fashion Trends

Stay ahead of the fashion, hair, and beauty trends with Fashionising.com’s constantly updated Fashion Trends 2009 guide.

Written: 10th July 2008 at 03.10