This trend was described as fairly minimalistic, with a calm colour palette with attention to fabric detail. Many garments shown on the catwalk were collarless yet still fairly traditional. There were minimal fastenings to the sheer fabrics used. Shoulders were domed and rounded. There was also a rather sporty feel to the radical neutrality trend.
Garments such as sweater dresses, tank t-shirts, leggings and mid length skirts were shown on the catwalk. This trend really focuses on texture of the fabric. Collections often included heavy weaves, rips, and wool. This trend also proved that volume was bigger than before with many over sized key pieces however accessories were often kept simple. Issey Miyake, Comme des Garcon and Yohji Yamamoto were often mentioned throughout the trend seminar due to the fact that many of their S/S and A/W collections for 2012 included garments that connected to the Radical neutrality trend.
Hyper Culture
The second macro trend discussed in WGSN seminar was hyper culture. This trend was described as “a cultural clash.” The trend included solid bright colours and often many clashing prints. The trend proved an evolution of colour; the bold colours were often teamed with core classics. Patterns included shattered mosaics and an explosion in sequins that shone dramatically on the catwalk. Although sequins have been seen through out the last few seasons it appears they have been pushed to a new level.
The actual garments themselves were often minimalistic with simple shapes and cut. Polka dots were also often showcased in tops, dresses and tights with a high energy. A reason this trend has become so popular is because these garments can be teamed with black basic garments.
Accessories were also often very shiny and metallic, yet still small and minimal. Many garments shown included lace panels to create more texture and lace was often layered with other fabrics to appear like a printed fabric.
Eco Hedonism
This last macro trend was extremely dramatic, especially in comparison to the other two trends. The trend was edgy with a lot of garments displayed in heavy tweeds. This trend uses many soft natural and pastel colours as the main focus is on the fabric and textures used. In contrast to the pastels many garments were also created in a metallic fabric with the high use of embellishment to add extra layers.
The trend is very organic and fresh. Some garments displayed a sophisticated pattern also with the use of fur. However furs have mainly been used on formal and traditional garments such as coats and jackets.
Shapes of the garments were consistently angular and naturally formed, with long flowing skirts added with a feathered finish. Party wear has been pushed to a new territory with dramatic styling but with texture playing a pivotal role. This all helped create the maximum movement from all garments displayed.
Accessories were also very organic and natural; materials had been manipulated and sculptured. Many necklaces and handbags were made from natural sources such as wood or shells.
Personally I also feel this trend was rather 20’s inspired with the use of fringing in many garments and art deco inspired heavy embellishment.
