FROM THE GROUND UP
Fashion Forecast MW Spring ‘25
Project Brief:
For this project, my team and I were tasked with curating a menswear Fashion Forecast for Spring 2025 based on the current zeitgeist of 2023.
The main focus was researching and predicting trends, including; color, fabrics, patterns, prints, trims, and details. Our forecast is supported by various runway and street-style references.
This all came together to create “From the Ground Up,” which led our project to be presented at the VCU fashion show at the VMFA in Richmond, VA.
Our forecast is rooted in culture and growing in compassion. Centered around celebration, we predict a fashion landscape that unites people across different backgrounds, cultures, and ages.
Color story
The color story highlights elements of joy, comfort, activism, and familial values. The imagery focuses on political events, cultural movie scenes, traditional artworks, and celebrations in different cultures.
We used discordant color schemes, which clash and create color blocks that depict the uniqueness of the cultures. This is paired with toned-down colors, creating a sense of optimism and balance within oneself.
-
Illumination of Change uses strong values and saturated colors, promoting the movement toward positive change and inclusivity.
-
The Hearth is focused on Earth tones forming a bold and inspiring color story acknowledging diversity and unity in cultures.
FABRICS
-
Drill cotton is a medium to heavyweight warp-faced twill fabric with a diagonal weave pattern.
The fabric is strong and resistant to wear and tear, making it suitable for outdoor and workwear garments.
Drill is also breathable and comfortable to wear, making it a popular choice for garments worn in warmer weather.
-
Canvas is highly durable and versatile, and is typically made from 100% cotton, woven in a plain weave.
The plain weave allows for a smooth surface which is ideal for printing designs and surface manipulation like pleating and tucking.
The two variations of plain weaves are full basket and half basket, with the latter being more pliable and durable.
-
ECONYL® or regenerated nylon consists of discarded nylon waste (fishing nets, etc.).
Regenerated nylon shares the qualities of new nylon but can be recycled, recreated, and remolded (Econyl 2021).
The upcycling process of nylon waste into regenerated nylon is made possible by using a single material that preserves its original quality and characteristics.
PRINTS
-
Trompe L’oeil, which translates to “deceives the eye,” is an optical illusion that tricks the eye into believing a flat surface is three-dimensional.
-
Cultural motif prints highlight a contemporary take on how prints can be used in a modern context. They showcase one’s cultural background and history, forming a sense of activism.
-
Imaginative prints focus on the mysterious and surreal with vibrant color and complex imagery.
LOOKS
Satirical Gorp is a slightly exaggerated take on utilitarian fashion trends by featuring exaggerated pocketing details and bold fabric layering techniques.
By incorporating elements of humor and playfulness, this movement is a reflection of a desire for individuality and self-expression.
Vibrant Vitality embodies energy, life, and enthusiasm using a mixture of different patterns and color blocking, creating vibrant and lively pieces.
Choosing bold colors and unique patterns, aims to showcase the richness and depth of various cultural traditions, while at the same time celebrating the vitality and energy that comes with embracing diversity.