The conversation is changing – the spring/summer 2019 shows were about diversity, acceptance, resistance and strength. For eternal optimists, there were styles in all the colors of the rainbow. Pragmatics will approve of garments pulling double-duty. Rebels will shine in the chaos of embellishments. Those who own their sex appeal will do it smartly and subversively.

Big takeaway: Let your clothes reflect the person you are.

Here are the 4 key trends you need to know.

TREND ONE
The Good Sport
Active- and athleisure wear continue to be major contenders. Styles such as body con dresses, shorts, cycling shorts, dressy track jackets, sweatshirts and parkas were all over the runway; color blocking was a major theme. The tracksuit is all about the fabric, letting all-over singular colors elongate silhouettes. Rugby stripes and abstract prints in primary colors such as reds and yellows, pinks, lavenders, royal blues, as well as neons to create bold effects. Surf inspired wetsuits  and one-pieces are fun and functional. We saw rubberized plastic synthetic materials that were molded in unexpected ways.

Fabrics to watch: Shiny and matte nylon-based jerseys, mesh, ribs, scubas, fleeces, and ponti di romas. Add one of our many finishes (try moisture-wicking or antimicrobial) to make it a technology-advanced style.

TREND TWO
Pattern Play
There were three major themes for spring with prints: power petals and vintage florals. Sweet, subtle and supersized floras are this season’s superstars – in crazy brights and ice cream pastels. Check-it-out: summer plaids, checks, gingham, and tartans appear in unexpected ways and silhouettes.  Graphic Content: from vintage comic stripes to pop art (think Warhol), designers have gone mad for arty prints and loud graphics. Polkadots are trending in all sizes. Monochromatic looks from primary shades to pastels to neon accents all engage the eye and scream for attention.

Fabrics to watch: Print on any of our natural or synthetic fibers to achieve beautiful hand and drape.

TREND THREE
Decent Exposure
Transparency is key as sheer styles and fabrics dominate the runway. Anything from plastic trench coats to a sheer dress over shorts, underwear and bras that are meant to be seen. Bustiers are making a comeback when paired with pencil skirts and men’s style trousers. Also added: lingerie influences in color and styling, and accents including feathers and fringe dial-up the decadence.

Fabrics to watch: Sheer and lightweight; sheer stripes, MicroModals®, TENCEL®, Whisper Supima® cottons, silks and cashmere jersey blends.

TREND FOUR
Eighties Allure
A new wave of slip dresses are layered over other tanks, tops, and pants; some trimmed with embellishments such as crystals and sequins, others as a patchwork. Big puffed shoulders, strong blazers, catsuits, miniskirts, micro dresses, and body-hugging styles are making a statement. Details include ruching, asymmetrical and square necklines, paper bag waists and wide belt accessories.

Fabrics to watch: Viscose & Modal jerseys, ottomans, lurex jerseys and neoprene fabrications.