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The WGSN editors come up with three macro trends for each season. For spring summer 2014 these trends are: New Digital Aesthetic (or N.D.A.), Next Nature, and Neo Geo.
They emphasized that we're looking for newness. It's all about neo, next, and new. Computers are influential, as well as the aesthetic they bring.
N.D.A. is all about the virtual and reality worlds coming together. We're all connected via technology and we're feeling connected in an artificial and real way at the same time. The N.D.A. trend translates into fashion in a sporty way or in a minimally tailored way. Expect bold colors, sheers, pixelation, graphic prints, translucent effects, photorealism, plastic materials, or mirrored effects (such as on this tee).
Next Nature lets us look at nature in a spiritual way. The trend is sexy and entertaining. It's darker than in the past with nature-inspired prints. Dark jungle aesthetics such as palm fronds and florals are key. It gets more elevated and tailored this time around.
Neo Geo focuses on a new geological age. It promotes slowness and ritual. The trend can go earthy or tech. Linen and geometrics are key to the trend. Elegant rusticity is important.
Here are the new pieces for women for spring summer 2014:
the sheer layered dress (like this one) in lightweight organza, either tailored or flowing
the polo dress brings in a sporty aesthetic
the sliced sheath is fashion forward and structured with an asymmetrical slice
the asymmetric wrap skirt in a mini length or with moto details
layered shorts as seen at Fendi spring summer 2013, and side pocket flaps are key
Carry over items for women are:
the sweatshirt with embellishment, prints, or graphics
the luxe bomber in silk, sheer, cropped, or contrast sleeves
the shift dress with a 1960s influence
the fit and flare dress with a feminine 1950s silhouette and dropped waist as seen at Rag & Bone
the voluminous skirt in a more modest length
athletic bottoms in leather or silk, and dolphin cut shorts
the slouchy boyfriend jean
Core item updates for women are:
the graphic tee in a muscle or cropped length (this one is cute)
the woven tee with longer sleeves and boxy shapes (this version is great for fall)
the crew neck sweater as a staple with colorblocking
the maxi dress
the long line blazer as a fashion item in a collarless silhouette
the ankle-grazing skinny jean with slits or tuxedo stripes
Essential colors for spring summer 2014:
ink - an update to navy
lava red - orange-hued
sand as a neutral for men
seaweed - a casual green
adobe as a warm neutral for men and outerwear
Fashion colors include:
gold and copper metallics
pastels for the N.D.A. trend in lilac, blush, limeade, and ice blue
enamel blue as a strong commercial color, works well with metallics
hot pink continues for spring
Print and pattern:
stripes and checks
florals
tropical prints fuse Next nature with N.D.A.
photorealism as seen at Proenza Schouler
cultural geometric
animal prints are prominent
black and white mixed monochromatic
updated camouflage in softer colorways
Key Details:
twisted and knotted
slits are important
the deep V to update simple silhouettes
the unfinished look with raw edges as seen at Céline
coated jersey basics
embellishment with graphics and layering
embroidery as the new graphic to showcase craftsmanship
sheer insets as seen at Saint Laurent pre-summer 2014
Autumn Winter 2014-2014 Preview
Industrial Evolution, Modern Myth, and Rendering Reality are the three trends for autumn 2014 and winter 2015.
Industrial Evolution is influenced by 3D printing and open-source design. We'll see unfinished edges and cut and pieced fashion. It's about experimenting with shape and form. Functional finishes with a reinforced punk feel are key.
Modern Myth pulls from the past with storytelling to inform the future. There are Peruvian and Indian influences. Crests, emblems, and regal details are important. Prints and patterns are layered. There's folklore, embroidery, unique placement of graphics, shaggy mohair, and oversized creatures.
Rendering Reality is a continuation of N.D.A. It continues the conversation of what's real, what's virtual, and it asks how do we connect in the real world. There is a 1990s influence with a back-to-basics feel. Colors are bright and beautiful. Denim is seen in contemporary washes. Ironic and sport influences continue. Sheer overlays and shifting light effects are important. Pixelation and updated camo are key, as prints are busy.
**For more fashion trend forecasting information, have a look at my spring summer 2014 fashion forecast and my fall 2014 winter 2015 trend forecast on The Key To Chic. Get more inspiration by following along on Pinterest and Facebook, where I'll be sharing exclusive fashion and shopping photos.
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