Creativity & experimentation inspire trends for 2018/19
When we look at trends this year, it seems anything goes―there is no longer one single trend dominating the headlines. This offers scope for lots of creativity and experimentation.
Influences from different cultures are mixed with traditional patterns and motifs, while decorative opulence featuring bold colours and glamour is combined with humorous details.
We look at some of the trends spotted overseas that will make their way to our shores later this year or early next year.
Nature and sea
The Scandi look is still going strong and will be for the next year or so. The latest iteration of this is the ‘lagom’ lifestyle trend from Sweden. This is all about finding the right balance in life, doing things in moderation, not too much, not too little. This is clearly helped by calm surroundings, creating a feeling of well-being with lots of wood, concrete, stone, basketwork and, of course, textiles such as linen and wool. We also can’t escape the multi-faceted seaside trend, which can be found in a variety of creations.
Harmonious colourways
The colourways to watch for 2018/2019 are Bordeaux, petrol and curry, as well as the colour of the year, ultra violet. We can also expect fresh rosé and mint tones, as well as a bright mustard, to do very well. Shades of blue, denim and indigo continue to be very much in vogue.
Shiny surfaces and fluffy stuff
Gold, brass and silver are never far away when it comes to creating accents across all trends and styles. Surfaces range from highly polished to traditionally patterned, engraved or perforated and include all sorts of patina effects. As for the materials used, surfaces are finely polished and appealingly textured. Fine velvets, cosy artificial pelts, fluffy blankets and soft feathers are great features of this trend.
Stylish campfires
What began as a summer living room has developed into a place of wellbeing for the entire year. To keep these areas warm, even during colder times of the year, there are fireplaces and stylish heaters in brass, with a design reminiscent of the film lights of the 1920s. Multi-functional lighting serves to create a relaxed, contemporary ambience, with luminaires that not only change colour, but also serve as Bluetooth loudspeakers and champagne coolers.
And a host of birds of all kinds…
You can’t have trends without animals! This time the llama heads the field, followed closely by the giraffe, zebra, panda and the sloth. Not forgetting an entire host of exotic birds, including flamingos, parrots and macaws, as well as some fantastical new creations. And insects, too, are carving out a place for themselves, including butterflies, flies, beetles and spiders. When it comes to the seaside trend, we are seeing increasing numbers of jellyfish, prawns, crabs and corals.
Richly bejewelled
When it comes to jewellery, we can risk a little more next season. That applies both to the real thing and to costume jewellery. Those who can afford it will be reaching for diamond-studded charms with matching bracelets. Others who like to change their style every so often will perhaps be courageously wearing a statement necklace with an Indian ethno look.
As for handbags, fashion and function are cleverly incorporated with a mix of colours and patterns. For example, clutch bags made from fine wood veneer appear simple and at the same time are special in their impact.
Awesome gifts
Trendy gifts to look out for this year include Keykeeper, which organises keys rather like a pocket knife. Families with little children will be delighted with the outdoor play mat, which can easily be turned into bag.
An excellent gift idea, particularly for junior dog owners, is the Ball Launcher, a gun that shoots tennis balls right across the dog’s exercise area. Once again, gourmet gifts often come in jars and bottles, including chocolate fondue, wine cups with basil, and apple gin.