Trends 2005

Courtney Mueller -- Casual Living, 2/1/2005

During the Casual Furniture Retailers Assocation Forum last month, writer, speaker and retail consultant Mary Liz Curtin spoke to members about upcoming trends in the gift industry, trends that will surely affect the casual industry, as well. The following are some of the hot looks Curtin mentioned during the seminar.

• Consider the pet category in your store, either offer some products or have a pet at your location. Consumers love animals, and will visit just to see Fido or Spot.
• Stripes are still hot, but polka dots are being introduced and will be strong this year
• Alfresco dining, outdoor living, home entertainment are at the top of lifestyle trends
• Wicker is big, but it's all about the fabric: Big, blousy florals will replace toile
• Recycled, reclaimed and vintage garden pieces will be hot looks
• Neutrals are still big news, with blues and the colors of the sea rushing in; citrus colors, brown, gray tones, kelly green and purples are on the horizon