In the Classroom: Trend Analysis & Forecasting

Most college students struggle with getting out of bed each morning to attend class. However, going to class is quite fun when learning about the various types of trends on a daily basis. This semester, I am enrolled in TXMI 5230: Trend Analysis & Forecasting at the University of Georgia. According to the University, this course provides “an overview of forecasting in the apparel, textiles, and home interiors industries at the design and merchandising level. Students critically analyze color, fabric, and trend forecasting, and design and research concepts using multi-media and observational primary research.”

Mary Kate Donahue, 2017.

Throughout the semester, I will be tasked with various homework that will help me analyze trends. For example, last week I looked at the Resort 2018 collections for Etro, Giambattista Valli and Hermes and came to conclusions about today’s zeitgeist—spirit of the times—based on the garments. Also, most recently, I created a trend board outlining my predictions for a trend this fall, based off a certain theme or motif. With the tendency to look toward nature for inspiration, I believe many consumers will look toward garments that reflect the characteristics of the bird, with a special focus on garments that incorporate feather detail.

Other assignments this semester will involved “Group Forecasts,” where I will work with a group of my peers to outline a collection for a particular designer or fashion house, based on our predictions for trends in the coming seasons. Be on the look out to see what my group members and I create!

One of the coolest aspects of this course so far has been the virtual tour of Trend Council that my professor scheduled for our class. As a subscription-based trend tool, Trend Council delivers expert analysis and design inspiration within the industry. Dividing the industry into three categories, the service reports on Women & Juniors, Mens & Young Mens and Streetstyle for up to two years in advance. One anecdote I found particularly intriguing is the cross-over of industries, as the Trend Council representative explained how Porsche uses there service to stay abreast on trends for the interior of their cars— from types of leather to unique stitching.

Although I still have a little more than three months left of TXMI 5230, I am starting to think that trend forecasting may be a very viable career path for me. I love the notion of being “in-the-know” of what trends are around the corner, even if those predictions may end up inaccurate. As Alexander McQueen says, “you’ve always got to push yourself forward; you’ve always got to keep up with the trends or make your own trends.”