South American charm dominates the colors and fabrics of the Caliente trend. Sultry reds and burnt browns add heat to sumptuous casual wear for a bit of fashion flair. Soft and smooth fabrics such as moleskins, twills and mercerized ultra-fine knits dominate this trend. Also to look for: printed corduroy and prints with motifs of pressed flowers, abstract plaids and geometric baskets. Colors are hot, hot, hot in the pulsating red, feverish orange and luscious wine tones of Sangria, Peach Topaz, Oxblood, Red Chile and Rassmatazz.

Chill Factor cools everything way down in a combination of space age technology and nature at its most extreme. Frigid blues reflect the intensity of the arctic landscape while techno performance fabrics give a hard edge to survival gear. Coatings such as resin finished, wax and rubber are key to this trend. Flannels, jersey chenille, thick knits, and cottons combined with nylon and wool give extra protection from the elements. The intense hues of Sapphire, New Indigo, Sonic Blue and Atomic Energy put this palette into the deep freeze.

The colors and fabric of Lush Life create a haven of softness and luxury against the harsh realities of the world. Featherweight cotton/silks, corduroy knits, luxe cotton/cashmere blends, hairy fleece and open weaves add dimension to fabrics, while offering comfort and protection. Colors are a tonal but colorful mix that utilize shades of off-white, golden orange, browns and flesh tones. Let yourself be soothed by the tranquil tones of Almond, Marshmallow, Chamomile, English Rose and Candied Ginger.

Celtic folklore, imaginary and magical worlds, and the stuff of fantasy and fairytales provide the basis for the Legendes trend. Fabrics are both functional and sporty in quilted knits, heavy canvas, basketweaves, and heathered yarn Bedford cords, soft and cozy tweeds, and textured knits. The all-green palette ranges from yellowed to blued greens, and from light to dark hues. Explore the land of the fairies and leprechauns in legends of old through the mossy hues of Celtic, Deep Pine, Shamrock, Irish Cream and Tent.

The all-out glamour and glitz of Las Vegas defines the Viva trend ? think bright lights, gambling casinos, flashing marquees and gaudy showgirls. Fabrics push the limit in color and material contrasts. Look for iridescent shirtings, giant waffleweaves, lots of stretch, bonded mesh, high loop terries and plush velours. Colors are electric and range all over the spectrum from orange-reds, golden yellows, lime greens and hot pinks to soda browns and sky blues. Trip the life fantastic in the notice me hues of Piccadilly, Showgirl, Gold Rush, Menthe and Cadillac.

Research for this report was conducted in Tokyo, Osaka, Los Angeles, New York, Reykjavik, London, Brussels, Antwerp, Amsterdam and Milan.

Transforming Tomorrow

 ~"Few minds wear out, more rust out." Christian Nestell Bovee

A wide variety of games, puzzles, and toys come under the heading of brain-teasers, including such items as Rubik's Cube and the tangram. These games are helpful for maintaining flexibility in approaching problems. People who report that they enjoy and play these games also score higher on problem-solving tests. Games and puzzles help adults avoid perceptual fixedness and encourage mental flexibility. It is important to give children games and puzzles on an increasingly more difficult scale to encourage development of their problem solving skills. Why not add games and puzzles to your waiting room, conference room or in a toy box in your office?