Childlike innocence, the natural world, new age tech and individualized luxury are among the key components of the fabric trends forecast for 2001/2002 in “The Next Evolution,” Cotton Incorporated’s latest offering of its Home Fashion Selling Ideas.

The four fabric trends and five color palettes that comprise “The Next Evolution” emphasize whimsical to opulent designs, innovative constructions, and colors that range from ethereal pales to saturated hues. “The next evolution of the home is a universal one,” says Elizabeth Hough, senior director, fashion marketing, home fabrics. “Spaces are multi-functional, ethnically diverse and truly personal, as defined by their inhabitants. Comfort is paramount and cotton is everywhere.”

The four fabric trends of “The Next Evolution” are ‘Innocence’, ‘Growth’, ‘Mirrors’ and ‘Sense of Self’.

The first trend, ‘Innocence’, takes a playful, childlike approach to design. Naive and exuberant, these fabrics use flowers, animals and people in whimsical motifs. Constructions such as three-dimensional matelasse plaids, embroidered basketweaves, fanciful prints and confetti-colored terry are the foundation for this fabric group. Bold, fun color gives this category an extra dose of optimism.

Plant life, animals and nature figure prominently in the fabrics of ‘Growth’. Approaching design in a healthy and mature manner, these organics are bold or blase’, simple or sophisticated. Flora and fauna designs abound in jungle damasks and prints, floral overprinted matelesses, animal skin looks and printed twills.

The global community provides the inspiration for the fabrics in the ‘Mirrors’ trend, reflecting the ethnic cultures of the world. This trend is about luster and shine -- metallic yarns and mercerized threads provide sheen and drama while creating surface interest. Look for aboriginal designs, painted metallic velvets, gold embroidered saris and double-faced cloths with tiny mirrors sewn into them.

The confident fabrics in ‘Sense of Self’ have a life of their own, full of character and depth. Intimate and intricate, these fabrics feature bold and unusual combinations that have a very personal touch. Layered effects, printed wovens, updated paisleys and forward-looking jacquards infuse this trend with sophistication and originality.

Transforming Tomorrow

Here is more evidence that music may be one of the answers to transforming our tomorrows. In The Owner’s Manual for the Brain, Glenn Wilson shares:

Published: September 27, 2000

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Kathy Lamancusa is a trend strategis, professional speaker and author who tracks the forces that impact our lives. Over 1.6 million copies of Kathy's books are in print, and she has appeared on numerous television and radio shows including Oprah! She is a public speaker who can offer organizations entertaining and enlightening peeks into what is coming and what is shaping change so that they can better reach their own customer bases.