TRENDshot

Timelessness

I feel the recession really is having a positive influence on consumer habits and the ‘must have’ ethos surrounding fashion and shopping.  Don’t get me wrong I imagine there are communities facing financial challenges, but I hope the values in my post are taken for their positives and not their negatives.  I believe we should instill into ourselves and our next generations the true value of money and encourage ourselves to purchase timeless classis that are quality pieces that stand the test of time.  It’s a false economy to buy into the cheap throw away fashion.  Building your own style and nurturing your own individuality, whether it be upcycling, recycling, telling a story with your clothes and accessories, ethical buying or even buying new pieces that will last a few seasons, surely is more character building for ourselves and the next generations to come.

This trend has probably been recognised already, considering it’s now being considered as well for the children’s market, as we read about the ’sobriety’ trend suggested by Mudpie.
Note to self:  Wouldn’t it be a fantastic idea if I could use my old denim jeans to make some cool plimsoles

Mudpie : Sobriety – Girls & Boys – Spring/Summer 2011

The material excesses of the pre-recession society are forgotten, in favour of a humble, wholesome existence. Pleasure is found in relationships, community and life experience; a utilitarian revival begins, placing emphasis on style based on authenticity and timelessness instead of conspicuous and needless consumption. The idea of change fills many with hope for a new future founded on simplicity, ethics and wisdom.

Fashion interpretation:

The simple and unfussy design of the Amish lifestyle inspires this trend as a palette of slate and denim blues are coupled with bright American red and hints of clay pink, buttery yellow neutrals, deep burgundy and burnt orange. Silhouettes are modest, with high necklines and low hems reflecting the chaste undertones of life as a pilgrim settler. Layered textures, handcrafted garments and textural contrasts work with ‘prim and proper’ graphics and prints, resulting in a contemporary twist on traditional settler’s clothing. The look incorporates interesting contrasts of fabric and finishes; adornment is kept to a minimum, instead the emphasis is on utilising the charm of unfussy design. The rugged outdoors of the American West is interpreted with a workwear aesthetic. Durable materials reflect an appreciation of industry and manual labour. Distressed finishes and haphazard styling give a tough look, completed with details such as rivets, straps, cinches and angular stitch detail.