We did this last year so let’s do it again. I want to look at what brought us here, where we are now and what to expect in 2012 for the
women’s contemporary fashion market – all from the perspective of an
expert in the field. So I turned to my close friend and pbc consultant,
Tracy Engelien.Tracy has previously shined as a senior sales executive for both large and small apparel manufacturers in the U.S. including BCBGMaxAzria. She spent years working with buyers in some of the most prestigious boutiques, specialty and high-end department stores in the U.S. A true industry insider, Tracy knows the west coast and national players, understands regional market trends, economies, and fashion preferences.
Until very recently, Tracy was the Prinicipal of Tracy Engelien Sales representing lifestyle, fitness and yoga brands … until she made the big move!
Tracy is now the owner and designer of Boxie. Boxie tees are 100% organic brilliant basics for women. Boxie is a resort lifestyle collection
born and bred right here in Los Angeles. Boxie reflects the aesthetic
of the California Riviera in carefree styles of cotton basic tees.
Fashion pieces accentuate the collection with the same essential lively,
clean colors and yummy, soft fabrics. Boxie tops can be paired with any
style or look. You can wear them with suits, jeans, skirts or to the
gym. Sleep in them. Layer them. Wrinkle them. The Boxie motto is Wash,
Rinse & Repeat.She has done it all. Who better to ask what’s going down?
Q: Use one word to describe 2011 in the women’s contemporary fashion world?
A: Regenerative.
Q: What was expected in 2011?
A: I think the expectation was there would be a second bottom to fall out economically. To some extent, the garment industry did see more fall out. However, I really believe companies regrouped and reorganized and put their plans together to achieve real growth for the future. They looked at a hard road of slow climbing out of 2011 into 2012 and reaching for 2013 as the next profitable year.
Q: What changed in the industry in 2011?
A: Retail became the big focus for corporate profits in 2011. Some examples are True Religion, Lululemon, Madewell, and J Brand. The wholesale segment was still finding it’s new place in the market and brand retailing became a driving force.
Q: What were the biggest trends of 2011?
A: Oy, I forget already! – feathers, animal prints, accessories, and SHOES.
Q: What do you think will continue?
A: Shoes and animal prints have continued strong into 2012. The printed denim trend for Spring12 is really present, and the shoe is a big focus still with all the ankle length trousers and crop styles out there.
Q: What is your trend outlook for 2012?
A: Highlighter colors are going to be the big deal all year. Brights, brights, brights. I notice a strong shift away from the Boho flowing silhouettes into more tailored details and dressing up more – think trousers, jackets, and blouses as key elements to any woman’s wardrobe. We are much more ladylike this year.
Q: What is the industry outlook for 2012?
A: Overall the outlook is positive. Again, I think we are looking at a year of slow growth and the setting up for a real push in 2013 for more dynamic strategies and creativity. There have been some interesting moves by big companies (Target, Kohl’s) already this year where they are opening up boutique-like stores in very specific locations in the States and testing that specialty market. Private label business is excellent because of that now. Smaller brands have an opportunity to support their own labels by producing limited products for the larger players. I also think we will be introduced to some new things by the end of the year.
Thank you for the insights, Tracy.
With Fall12 breaking next week in Los Angeles at LA Fashion Market Week, we’ll see if the positivity that Tracy feels and the increased activity we experienced at the Las Vegas fashion trade shows continue picking up momentum. I have spoken to a number of LA showrooms that have had very good responses from buyers to their pre-market calling and promotions. It is going to be an interesting week. I’ll be there all week keeping you updated.
Paul Brindley
paul brindley consults
Las Vegas Fashion Trade Show February 2012 Blogs:
LAS VEGAS FASHION TRADE SHOWS – FEBRUARY 2012 – DAY 1 MORNING
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