SHAPE UP    
One of the biggest trends emerging in collections at the event is silhouette newness, with brands experimenting not just garment surfaces, but also structure. Regina Shin, designer of Baevely, shares that buyers should look forward to a season of new ideas inspired by shapely constructions."We are focusing on playing with more structural fabric that can be more of a statement piece that will bring a fresh mindset to occasion wear,” she says, including a “wide range of leather [formed] into more playful silhouettes” alongside “fringe, new jacquard prints, mixing texture and patterns, and rhinestones.”  

“We are usually really strong with dressy looks; feminine and glamorous inspiration, shimmer and shine fabrics, sequins, tulle; but this season, we’re introducing soft materials that will add voluminous dimensions, topped with 3D embellishments and other multi-layered elements,” says Andrew Kwon, Account Manager, Idem Ditto. Noting that attention to detail is critically important in the collection, thoughtfulness in occasion wear design considers not just shape but also function. “Many of our dressy styles incorporate functionality; for example, we add pockets to as many styles as possible! Also, as the trend for micro miniskirts continues, we add shorts underneath. Customers and retailers are looking to have convenience and comfort everywhere and every day, especially special occasions.”

Comfort also enters occasion wear as traditionally expected shapes like dresses and skirts make way for a surge of tailored separates and suiting trends in this category (we’ll explore this trend in the MAGIC New York Brand Editorial, launching next week.) AK Brown, Founder, The Fashion Connector expects to see bold detailing in these silhouettes taking them from day to night, including “loud colors, unique prints, custom embellishments… blunt cuts and structured-in tulle.”