The trend towards buying investment pieces has been clearly observed in women’s outerwear over the past three or four years, and that means buying fewer, higher quality, longer-lasting items. Organic cotton, cashmere, silk and mohair have become more accessible for everyday. As usual, children’s fashion follows a few seasons behind. Since summer 2016 at the latest, there will be a much stronger emphasis on materials, workmanship, origin and durability; winter 2016 will be lavish and chic with premium knitwear, lurex yarns and opulent fabrics.

The increasing availability of information on manufacturing conditions is also behind this trend. More and more, trendsetters and early adopters are moving away from the notion of clothing as a disposable item. The demand for responsible production, safety and a superior tolerability of natural materials is even higher in children’s clothing. And this change is not hidden away: Brash neon colours and glittering prints are now giving way to beautiful materials and classic fabric combinations. The willingness of consumers to pay a bit more is increasing, this even goes for middle income sectors. In addition to environmental considerations, the growing significance of children’s fashion, even for pre-teens, is a factor. Style-conscious mothers and well-dressed children are having a moment, which is clear from the many successful blogs, magazines and social media. One result of the rising standards in children’s fashion is the mini-me trend: Classic pieces from adult fashion, such as leather jackets, and the use of real fur in the premium price segment are also part of the current trend. It is a multi-faceted development resulting from a variety of influences. How long this trend will last and to what extent bricks-and-mortar retail can profit from it remains to be seen in the coming seasons.

source: lunajournal