Interstoff Textile Forecast 2011-2012.

An important part of design is to stay relevant, and realize and take note of what is happening in the fashion world globally. As Heidi famously quotes: "In fashion, the one day you're in, the next day you're out". Although it's important to have your own concept, vision and uniqueness, it is equally important not to bury your head in the sand and risk becoming irrelevant.

One way of keeping contemporary is to read trend reports. Several websites offer free trend predictions (www.cosmoworlds.com; www.ciff.dk), but it is also important to compare these to the runway to check their validity. I like to take a look at the trend forecasts and then see if I can compare them to relevant designers. Here's what I mean:

Interstoff Textile Forecast AW2011/12

Forecast: Northern Shelter

Designer Collection : Michael Kors Resort 2011

Forecast: Indulgent Dreams

Designer Collection: Chanel SS2011

Forecast: Layers of Time

Designer Collection: Vivienne Westwood SS2011

Forecast: Crazy Creations

Designer Collection: Alberta Ferretti SS2011

Interstoff is a Trend Forecasting committee head up by Messe Frankfurt HK Ltd. It is comprised of experts in the fashion industry from prominent global fashion capitals, and helps to serve as an "invaluable tool for designers and garment professionals", helping to guide them in the right direction for the forthcoming fashion seasons. For more information, visit: Messe Frankfurt