How to Track Fashion Trends

Tracking fashion trends makes you informed and stylish.

Whether you work in the fashion industry or always want to look your best, tracking fashions trends is one of the best ways to stay current and savvy. Although your own personal style should be timeless, tracking fashion trends ensures that you stay on the cutting edge of the fashion world. By knowing what's hot, what's about to be hot and what's outdated, you'll be able to incorporate trends into your own wardrobe with confidence.

Instructions

1. Read magazines. Fashion magazines highlight the season's latest trends. In addition to photographic fashion spreads, many magazines also feature special sections and articles that showcase trends. When reading the magazine, also pay attention to advertisements. Ads hint at the season's most popular looks and upcoming trends.

2. Visit websites. Websites such as Polyvore and Lookbook allow users to share fashion images and outfits with each other. Polyvore also tracks and lists top trends. In addition, many designers or fashion magazines' websites allow you to view videos and photographs of runway shows, which showcase upcoming seasonal trends.

3. 

   Some movies offer insight into fashion trends.

   Watch current movies and TV shows. Shows and movies often feature characters wearing the latest fashion trends. Certain shows and movies also predict new styles. For instance, a popular show set in the 1960s may launch a fashion trend for retro accessories.

4. Window shop. Clothing stores often stay current with fashion trends. Observe the outfits and accessories displayed in a variety of store windows and note similar trends that show up. Look at a range of shops, from more affordable clothing outlets to upscale boutiques.

5. 

   Street fashion often reflects popular trends.

   Observe people on the street. Some trends spread by word of mouth before reaching the media. Since trends vary from city to city, watching passersby and noting similar outfits or accessories is an effective way to track local trends. If you are looking for personal style inspiration, observe those who are close to you in age and size.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to track how fashions have changed over time, shop at antique stores or other suppliers for outdated or vintage fashion magazines. These periodicals offer insights into the trends of past decades. Watching old movies and TV shows also shows popular fashions from each era. Many trends go through cycles, so retro styles often become popular again.

• Consult with stylists. Professional stylists work hard to keep up with the latest trends, from celebrity fashions to local styles. If you want to stay current with changing trends, schedule frequent visits to a stylist to seek advice on which fashions and accessories are popular.

References

• Self Growth; Tips to Keep Up With the Latest Fashion Trends; Christian Wilson
• "Marketplace Morning Report"; Polyvore.com Uses Data to Track Fashion Trends; Adriene Hill; January 2011
• "Los Angeles Times": Scene Stealers--Movie Costumes That Started Fashion Trends

Resources

• Fashion Trendsetter
• Polyvore
• Lookbook
• "Elle" Runway