Yellow, Metallics in Cotton Inc. Trend Forecast

By Carole Sloan -- Home Textiles Today, 6/18/2007 12:00:00 AM

New York —

Three major color statements, ranging from understated and subtle colors in "Compose" to fresh, dynamic shades in "Enmesh," and an urban influenced group "Theatrics" that features iridescence in cool and warm tones and intense cosmetic shades, comprise the Cotton Inc. forecast for fall/winter 2008/2009.

Throughout the themes, yellow remains an important part of the palette "in softer and cleaner shades," said Denell Pepin, product trend analyst-home. Other common threads, she pointed out, are sophisticated metallics and the elimination of smoky or grayed tones.

"Compose" represents a new modern aesthetic with a lot of complexity in color, she related. Important in this palette are greens and browns from chocolate to copper. Fabrics in this mood will "reflect luxury in small doses — natural yarns, chenille, micro-detailing, and menswear stripings."

"Enmesh" embodies a fresh, dynamic mood with colors including orange, blue, gray, and yellow — with metallic sheens important. Designs are strong and contrasting with more fluidity, laser cuts, and basketweaves among the fashion directions.

"Theatrics" represents a move back to "creative artistry," Pepin explained, with influences of grandeur and craftsmanship. Blue cast gray, accents of blue and lacquered berry shades will be among the fashion stars, she said. In design, ethnic influences will be more sophisticated.

Overall, the fabric directions will see fine-wale corduroy, pebble surfaces, ribbed weaves, and nature influences emerging.