Today Paris feels like the Paris I know; temperate weather that beckons you to outdoor cafes and city parks. Of course, I spent most of my day ensconced at the show digging deeper for ideas that were worthy of bringing home. I spent some time at Interfiliere, the major fabric exposition that is a destination for lingerie and swim designers worldwide. This show was more robust than in January. Major themes dominated: Charmed, Enchanted and Liberated. All three messages focused on femininity and female empowerment.
Thus the prevalence of embroideries and guipures, bold and in floral patterns. Light delicate laces touched with sparkle provoke fairy tale images. The emphasis on sport yogawear is ubiquitous, with new innovations in functional technically astute materials. And of course the autumn/winter 2016 palette was unveiled.
Meanwhile back at the Salon messages continue to repeat themselves, so forgive me for being redundant. Did I mention that blue is mega important? And lets not forget the influx of floral prints as the swim market guides the intimate design teams into the next season.
Yes, Mode City is more swim oriented than I would have imagined , but there is a healthy dose of lingerie and loungewear. Even brands like ultra feminine Fleur of England have dipped their design brushes into the swim category.
The crossover appeal seems to be a natural transition. The impact of swimwear on the Intimate market is not only a matter of creative direction but also a money making machine for stores that indulge.
