Gift Focus - Jan/Feb 2018 (Issue 105)

18 giftfocus Gift Focus speaks to some of the movers and shakers in giftware to hear what their trend predictions are for the coming year get in the know... Feel and know-how are evident in the way apparent opposites are reconciled and impressive perspectives develop in today’s design. From the play with tradition to futuristic innovation – trends remain multifaceted and contrast one another. In total, Ambiente 2018 will display four major design developments in its forward-looking trend show. Modest Regenerations is the clear, modern concept as the willed antithesis of constantly accelerating change. In a simple and relaxed manner, the tried-and-tested meets the new, industrial charm and craftsmanship – for example, sleekly turned wooden candleholders. When bold colours and patterns exude dynamism and vitality we call it Colourful Intentions . At the same time, ethical considerations determine the mix of materials and their processing. Sporty beauty bags made from recycled plastic in Pantone blue 2173 C makes a great example of this. Prism-like paper weights represent the trend Technological Emotions as much as amalgams of paper and linen, wood and metal, metal and glass. Also, wafer-thin foils, soft textile structures and innovative optical accents artfully appeal to the senses. And finally, audaciously eccentric, rich in allusions, decorated and dramatic in its presentation, Opulent Narrations stands for a contemporary metamorphosis of the historic and the oriental – in delicate colours like Pantone pink 200 C or purple 255 C. Of course, trends always come with a simple and a complex side. To experience all four trends in full, I invite purchasers, shop owners and interior architects to visit Ambiente from 9 th to 13 th of February, 2018. The Trend Show is to be found right at the Giving section in Gallaria 1. Yvonne Engelmann Director of Ambiente Giving and Living ambiente.messefrankfurt.com The catwalks screamed bold and opulent with their fashion jewellery for spring and summer 2018. In particular, statement earrings were all over the runways in London, Milan, Paris and New York with glass, crystal and pearls featuring predominantly in dramatic waterfall cascades and more traditional chandelier and teardrop styles with enormous hoops and large geometric shapes also making an appearance. Alongside over the top, earlobe to shoulder earrings, we’ll also see standout necklaces, arm cuffs and anklets. Beaded pieces were a second trend to emerge with necklaces, pendants and chunky charm bracelets all on show. Beaded jewellery waxes and wanes through the seasons but is always present to some extent. Miss Milly, known for its colourful and reasonably-priced jewellery, is introducing a new collection of handcrafted semi- precious beaded necklaces for next season focusing on heart, star and teardrop designs in agate. Pretty and sparkling was also a key component of the London shows with glittering hair accessories catching the spotlights. In terms of colour, there’s always a wide choice available but with metal jewellery consistently dominating the market. The catwalks emphasised neutral colours; gold, silver and ivory were all heavily present with the odd splash of red, yellow or royal blue. At Miss Milly, we adore colour and our palettes will be much more vibrant with a mix of soft pastels and lush, bolder tones, chosen to coordinate with the coming season’s clothing trends. Sarah Watmore Director, Miss Milly missmilly.co.uk