Colors saturate Showtime fabrics

Coastal accents appear in response to requests

By Lindsey Hughes -- Casual Living, 7/1/2009 12:00:00 AM

The latest color trends, textures and fabric patterns were unfolded at Showtime June 7–10. The color scale ranged from the brightest of brights to scaled back, sophisticated neutrals. New patterns and lifestyles were on display as well.

Vibrant colors saturate the new fabric offerings from Bella-Dura by Wearbest, shown are Lucca, Bungalow and Candela

Anchor motifs bedeck the nautical-inspired collection fabric from Altizer's Al Fresco line.

Bella-Dura by Wearbest is working on two new lifestyles, said Sarah Keelen, Wearbest designer. The first focuses on a traditional grouping with a global influence, she said. Ikat, medallions and paisley are all in the pattern mix. In terms of color, this grouping is ablaze with golds, reds, spicy tones and warm chocolate browns.

The second lifestyle is a collection of resort inspired hues and motifs. The group exudes airy coastal vibes with spa blues, greens and light neutrals splashed in maritime fashion. "This lifestyle features textures, solids and stripes," Keelen said.

Altizer also expanded its nautical-inspired collection. Stripes and anchors were prevalent themes in holiday red and navy in the Al Fresco Collection. Requests also have been widespread for solid, cream-colored fabrics, Altizer Vice President Todd H. Nifong said.

Terrazzo by Victor also showcased nautical-inspired collections as well as strong geometrics in hexagonal patterns and deco circles, ikat and ethnic-influenced motifs, botanical patterns and animal prints.

Glen Raven showcased solids, linens, textures, velvets and canvas. The collection embraced the theme where the outdoors meet the indoors, revealing a more focused line with tighter SKUs.

Many of the trends spotted at Showtime harmoniously correlated to the Design Options 2010 Color & Lifestyle Trends for the Home Markets seminar presented during the show by Maria Money, Design Options' sales executive.

Money discussed how color can make a world of difference between selling and not selling. "When times are good, you should invest in the tools needed to succeed," Money said. "When times are bad, you must invest."

Expect to see deeper tones in the neutral palette, and look for pastels to go dusty, Money said. Rose tones, soft yellow and the like will be anchored by brown. Ethnic-influenced colors and patterns will continue to have a heavy footing. Saffron and spicy tones will intermingle with other mid-tone brights. "We will see a transition of blues into plums and dusty mauves," Money said. A fascination with the luxe life will result in total exploration of jewel tones, she said.

Right now there is inter-industry collaboration of apparel and home, Money said. Instead of the traditional lag time in influence, trends co-exist between the two realms. "People want to live in what they love," Money said.

Money discussed six lifestyle trends for the fall and winter of 2010. Tribal Quest showcases tribal going modern. It follows the transition of influences from India to Africa to American tribal.

The Royal Statement lifestyle revolves around the idea people want to surround themselves with items that seem rich despite the economic times.

Graphic forms and artistic touches populate the Art of Living lifestyle, which is about surrounding yourself with the things you love. "It is where art goes mainstream," Money said.

The Power Palette heats things up a bit with a focus on all things red. This lifestyle includes orange cast reds as well as stoplight red. Following is the Gentlemen's Club recalling a sophisticated smoking lounge style, Money said. Think tattered books, aged busts, menswear prints, plaids and stripes.

The lifestyle trends round out with the Luxe Life, which is a bit more feminine than Royal Statement. The group is more monotone with influences such as crystal brooches and corsets.

Eco-conscious lifestyles will continue to influence the color wheel, she said. Expect sustainability to reflect more comfort and luxury as consumers realize "they don't have to compromise style for green," Money said.

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