Three Midwest Retailers Weigh in on Paris Collections

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In a WWD report which focuses on the trends and economic climates, the publication asks several retailers for feedback on the season shown in Paris. This is what Kelly Golden, Ikram Goldman and Linda Dresner had to say.

Owner of Neapolitan in Winnetka, Kelly Golden believes sensibility and wearability continue to be key trends. With the uncertainty in the financial markets as well as the future of many fashion houses, most designers played it safe.
Trendspotting with Kelly: Sportswear continues to be a big theme this season. Peplums and references to the Fifties and Sixties were popular as well. References to the sea and ocean were other big trends. I was pleased to see so many flats.

Linda Dresner, of her namesake boutique in Birmingham, Michigan believes the economy still feels very fragile and our customers are on the timid side. We are not spending more. But in the collections we buy, we found a lot to like.
Trendspotting with Linda: Lots of white, black-and-white combos, vintage couture Balenciaga shapes, a lot of shift shapes and embroideries. We like sleeveless jackets, lingerie looks and the bohemian and Moroccan influences.

Ikram, the River North visionary and recipient of the Legend of Fashion Award told WWD that what she saw in Paris was overall a very couture-driven season in that every piece mattered. She said, "It’s an investment piece for a lifetime, and I love that."
Trendspotting with Ikram: When you have a lace with a pleat and a chiffon and a print and great colors, you can’t go wrong.
Her favorite collections included Celine, Junya Watanabe, Lanvin, Rick Owens.
· Buyers Stick to Budgets After Strong Paris Season [WWD]