Showtime to go formal

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 7/2/2002 12:00:00 AM

High Point, NC — A new spin on formal, dressy looks; layered effects in wovens and prints that offer a fresh spin on texture; and lots of color are the key themes for decorative fabrics that will be launched at Showtime here next week.

Overall, the message from the fabric community is diversity, experimentation technological advances in fiber and finishing and a definite move from the casual domination of fabric market in the 1990s.

The following are some of the other looks to look for at Showtime:

— The East still inspires much of the fabric world, and the colors, textures, silks and embellishments of the area are ever-increasing influences for decorative fabrics.

— Contemporary will be looks that don't try too hard to be innovative or creative. Gimmicky is out as is the ultra-minimalism as people move more to soft and comfortable, even in contemporary. But raffia looks, texture and high-tech processes and fabrics are emerging.

— A move to a very dressy home life, traditional and more elegant but with a 21st-century spin, even with hints of Victorian, English country and French Provence.

— Layering and dimensional effect are creating new looks in both prints and wovens, using new print cloths and new finishes and architectural effects.