Trends
and Classics
by Carol / PCML
Every
January and February we hear the same questions :
What are the new trends ?
What are the new colors ?
What are the hot sellers expected to be ?
Fads
and trends should be a big consideration, but not the sole focus when
planning new lines for the upcoming year. Of course, this varies depending
on what you manufacture. Perhaps your business relies solely on the
latest "hot" trends.
But
many homes are decorated in a traditional fashion, utilizing sturdy
fabrics and darker colors that don't reveal repeated use as much as
the lighter tones .
Colder climates with a cooler light tend to favor darker colors, while
warmer areas tend to go lighter. Even so, when a home is occupied
by young children and pets, practicality often becomes a priority
.
Many homeowners don't change their colors and decor on a seasonal
or yearly basis. The classics are constant, and this makes it easier
when planning those new lines.
Certain flowers are perennial favorites, sunflowers for instance.
They have an extended lifespan - They work well for Spring, Summer,
and Fall crafting and decor.
Roses remain stylish no matter what time of year.
Off-white, yellow-to-gold, burgundy or wine, the mid-to-deep blues,
beige-to-browns, hunter green : These are some of the standards that
can be found in many homes.
Fabrics that can safely go in the washer and dryer are another consideration.
Easter bunnies, santas, snowmen, reindeer, witches, jack o'lanterns,
and scarecrows - are some of the seasonal classics that will return
every year.
Some shoppers may favor a certain enduring style - Country for example.
Cows, and chickens may come and go as trends, but for the traditional
country home, they will always be "in".
Learn
all you can about the latest fads and trends, become a "trend
detective" as mentioned in previous articles. But don't create
your entire line around the latest animal print, or the newest shades
of lime green and hot turquoise. You wouldn't want to have your inventory
tied up in things that may not sell.
Test
market : See if the latest trends will sell in your sales areas. Give
it a chance ... Adjust the prices, re-arrange your displays. Add sparingly,
if it sells, add more.
Think
about your own home, and those of your friends and family. Are they
trend conscious ?
Which items tend to change ?
When new items are purchased , do they stay with the same styles and
colors, or go for something trendy ?
Stay alert to what people look at, and what they actually purchase.
Many times what sparks an interest, and what will sell, are two different
things.
Remember that old saying ..."The customer is always right"
?
Pay attention to your customers, they will tell you what you need
to know.
Carol
/ PCML
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