When The East Meets The West

In October our prime minister announced that the ‘Asian Century’ was here, but for most of us we’re not really sure what this term actually means. In short it means a time for national change and growth. The scale and pace of Asia’s transformation is unprecedented and the implications for Australia are looking profound (Waller 2012). In terms of us surviving the GFC, well kind of, we can thank our near-north neighbours for that (Waller 2012). Asia has always been largely associated with the financial sector, however in recent times the creative industries has also began to form a working relationship with the East as well (The Melbourne Review 2012). And of course this is influencing fashion in a big way!

In an article by The Melbourne Review, Fashion designer Nicole Fraser states, “For anybody that is interested in a career in fashion, your first stop should be the Guangzhou fabric market.” (The Melbourne Review 2012). For Nicole, it was an economic imperative for her to head overseas, she says, “but then I was drawn to the kind of fashion that was being manufactured in Asia. Particularly in Japan, the clothing is about experimentation – its much more about ideas.” (The Melbourne Review 2012).

In terms of this trend trickling down to the street, above is Kim pictured wearing an eastern influenced kaftan. Fabric design such as satin, sequins and oriental prints ring true with an oriental flair. Asking why Kim chose this look, she responds with, "I like the look and comfort that this piece brings. I like that it's a little out there as well in terms of its design." An example of this eastern influence can be seen in Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 collection where his designs are pulled together with an oriental flair (Fashionista 2010). Think fringe, satin and sequins on a background of animal and oriental floral prints (Fashionista 2010). Trendspot.com also reports the forecasted trend  as panoplies of print that are romantically seductive in rich colours and intricate pattern (Trendstop 2012). The fabric and textile direction for this trend will include black as a strong background for delicate allovers, highlighted with contrast panels and binding (Trendstop 2012) (WGSN 2012). Colours forecasted will include majestic blues and purples, with gold acting as a royal highlight to oriental prints  (Trendstop 2012).So there you have it. Keep your eyes peeled for this up and coming oriental influenced trend!