Fluid Fashions for Fall : Trend Report for 2012-2013

What a season for legwear! Once again Foot Traffic was an exhibitor at the WWIN show (Women's Wear in Nevada) in Las Vegas. The show is an internationally attended accessories and clothing show where manufacturers and manufacturers' representatives showcase their latest fashions. The focus of the WWIN Show is on meeting the needs of boutiques and specialty retailers. As a legwear brand, we are always energized by talking to our customers and discussing how our products fit their styling needs. We listen to our customers and it pays off. We had a great show. At the same time, ATS (Accessories the Show) and MAGIC were swarming once again with buyers as they anxiously plan their purchases for the next season. This fall, being in the fashion and fun legwear business is a good place to be One of the perks of the show is seeing all of the other wonderful vendors and designers who showcase their latest fashion accessories and clothing. Following the fashion direction of last season, a major look is once again the fluid, long top worn over leggings , jeggings, footless tights and tights. I cannot stress enough the importance of legwear, all colors and weights. Layering is important and it goes from head to toe. Accessories such as great scarves, shoes, jewelry and purses are punctuated with bright textures in tights, leggings and socks. So, what are the key trends for the fall and winter? The silhouette is very fluid. The asymmetrical hemline is still a primary look, whether it's a top or a skirt. On top, not only are hemlines asymmetrical, but the entire top is buttoned off-center and necklines are fluid. The look is flattering as long as the top covers your derriere and doesn't get too "top-heavy." Skirts and dresses were often shorter in the front and longer in the back. Scarves seem to be a staple as they were shown with so many outfits to add color and texture around the neck. This year we noticed even more emphasis on ponchos and over-the-head asymmetrical sheer or metallic woven scarves.They are an elegant way to add color and texture, once again offering a fluid layering look. Colors are beautiful this season with emphasis on deep blues, rich teals, rust, reds, honeygold, cranberry and of course, black and deep grey. Read our Fall 2012 Pantone Color Trend Report for more details. Neutrals also made a strong statement at the show with beautiful mixtures of soft ivory, mushroom, and earthy colors. Metallic in tops and accessories were a common look as well. From silver to gold, the freshest metallic is a soft look, somewhere between pewter and white gold. Print tops were in abundance and shown in contrast with solid tights and leggings and bright solid denim jeans. Printed denim was also a popular category. Leopard, snake and alligator patterns still a strong look with more alligator than before. Fringe seemed to be growing in popularity as seen on jackets, boots, ponchos and purses. The exciting news was in how the designers were paying attention to the variety of women's body shapes. There was something for everyone at the show and buyers were doing their best to accommodate their customers, providing them with total style solutions. We are proud to be part of this season's style solution. What trends are you seeing for fall 2012? What will you be buying to update your wardrobe this season?