Fall/Winter 2018/19 Trends: Light & Shadow
Focusing on the theme: Light & Shadow, Swarovski’s Innovations & Inspirations for Fall/Winter 2018/19 explore the tensions between each. As society becomes more divided, we see a trend towards separation and a clash of viewpoints. It’s a world increasingly without gray areas—a world of light or dark, black or white, right or wrong; a world captured in the four trend themes identified for the new season: the extroverted playfulness of Funtasia in contrast to the thoughtfully muted character of Nostalgia; the decadence and sensuality of Elegantia juxtaposed with the survivalist mentality of Urbania.Swarovski Professional’s crystal innovations are inspired by stories that define the mood of the moment. This season, the story examines the increasing polarization of society—a world of Light & Shadow where key differences emerge:
Wealth disparities have always existed, however recent years have seen them become more pronounced. Available data demonstrates the disparities, presenting a picture of a society clearly divided between the “haves” and “have-nots.” In some areas of the world the wealth gap has increased three-fold over the last 40 years.
Another factor dividing society is the influence of the internet and social media. Increasingly surrounding ourselves with like-minded people and only sharing information that supports our existing beliefs, we have promoted the rise of the tribe. Within the tribe, so-called “truths” emerge that influence the popular mindset, and convictions are vehemently defended without (unbiased) filtering.
Inevitably, polarized viewpoints envision different lives and different futures: bright, cheerful and full of opportunity, or a formidable, perhaps frightening, challenge. This season we highlight both, reflecting on the fact that where there is light, there is shade. Whether we are full of joyful creativity and eccentric celebration or striving for stillness with a somber survival ethos, we must seize the notion that the future is twofold. Welcome to Fall/Winter 2018/19: Light & Shadow.
