TRENDS FORECAST 2015 - Part II

In Part 2 of our 2015 Trend Forecast, we look at broad runaway trends that are going to trickle down and start inhabiting our lives. Kick off your heels as we explore some of the trends that will inform what we wear in 2015...

Transparency

The use of sheer fabrics is certainly on the increase: this means a proliferation of see-through fabrics which glide effortlessly over the body. Ever since Rihanna caused a stir on the red carpet at last year’s CFDA Fashion Awards, the fashion pack has been hinting at a possible trend for see-through clothing.  While we initially thought this might be a bit too risqué for our largely conservative SA market, two local celebs arrived at the Channel O awards in full-length sheer gowns that left little to the imagination.  We predict the trend will survive into 2015 but perhaps in a more creative, less shocking way; with sheer overlays or tastefully revealing outfits such as those we have already seen emerging from local designers Ryan Keys and Joel Janse Van Vuuren (whose latest collection also showed a continued interest in White as a major color element of purity and innocence, yet displayed sophistication).

See-Through Sheer: 
The sheer trend is definitely taking hold. Designers such as
Joel Janse Van Vuuren (left) and Wake (right) are some local examples
with Christian Dior favouring this trend abroad (middle)

Black Magic: 
sheer fabrics in Black are tastefully revealing,
combining futuristic and sophisticated elements

Practicality

Functionality is going to become the buzz word for 2015. Clothing will be practical and comfortable without sacrificing style. The deconstructed look will be prominent: soft trench coats, more flowing fabric, kimono style coats, oversized clothing with strong Asian elements (particularly for fashion-froward men). This is a reaction to the skinny figure-hugging fashion of the last few years. At last year’s SA Fashion Week, this was a major trend particularly in the designs of Anneen Henze and Mantsho (Palesa Mokubung). With these designers’ collections ready to go retail this year, we will see this trend become a major fashion influence.

Asian Persuasion:
looser-fitting garments will take centre stage,
with flowing, billowing fabric a trend for menswear 

In terms of footwear, the trend remains that of comfort above all else. It's an easy, pain-free approach to footwear: sandals and sliders, as well as the continued influence of sporty footwear. The next level of last year’s ‘Sports Luxe’ trend will constitute a refinement: including a greater focus on the famous polo golfer which will evoke the concept of ‘Leisure Wear’ when paired with a more formal item such as a long, flowing skirt or blazer to achieve an effortless blend of preppy comfort and style.

Happy Feet:
Comfortable footwear remains desirable
while Leisure Wear and effortlessly stylish sports attire
will continue to develop and refine

Pretty Polo:
the ever-popular Polo shirt gets is re-invented and combined with Leisure Wear items

Bringing practicality into a local context, online shopping will become more trendy in South Africa this year. This trend has certainly been gaining steam for a while but is only really taking off now in our country. The convenience, ease and the idea of ‘fashion at your fingertips’ will most certainly become more alluring.

Super-Size Me:
Local designers displaying oversizing and comfortable silhouettes,
Leigh Schubert (left) and Mantsho (right)