Trend Q&A: Plus-size fashion and more

Emerging influences from Africa, how Pride celebrations influence beauty and fashion and what’s next for plus-size fashion. That and more on today’s episode.

Want to know what’s next? Listen to the show where our experts from around the globe unpack your biggest challenges. This week, WGSN’s President and CEO Carla Buzasi takes us to Cape Town, Philadelphia and London. Hear from the friendly faces of our Research Hub, Mindset and Subbing teams.

Watch the full episode below or read on for highlights of this episode:

Q: What are the emerging trends and influences in Africa?
“The African continent is bursting with talent across multiple sectors that are finally being represented on a global stage. Within music, South Africa’s amapiano genre has been growing in popularity around the world. It’s a hybrid of jazz, deep house and lounge music that is exemplified by musician Lady Du, who is dominating the scene.”
– Raeesa Brey, Researcher, WGSN
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Q: How does the evolution of Pride celebrations coincide with the growth of city dwellers in America? And what impact does that have on youth consumers in beauty and fashion?
“Pride events have become annual cultural touchpoints for youth and city dwellers. Urban residents now represent 83% of the US population. With more folks than ever participating in Pride, these safe spaces are where trends are being refined and tested, with euphoria make-up a great example.

“Multigenerational families normalising going to Pride together will impact the future of Gen Alpha and how they perceive personal expression, as well as what it means to be inclusive. The sociopolitical events of the last two years have also shifted Pride, which has become more reflective of intersectional LGBTQ+ communities.”
– Carmela Dow, Trend Researcher, WGSN Mindset
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Q: As representation of the plus-size consumer improves on the catwalks and in fast fashion, what’s next for this market?
“This market is heading in three directions: sustainable fashion, a global reach and representation of more diverse bodies. Affordable, sustainable clothing is hard to find for plus-size consumers, with many turning to Depop to source secondhand items. There’s a real opportunity to make it more accessible.”
– Jen Kettle, Deputy Head of Subbing, WGSN
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