Color, fashion and textile trends are so interesting to me and can often give me a creative nudge when I am feeling uninspired.  In my previous posts, I’ve discussed Messe Frankfurt‘s trends for textiles and home.

The trend Utility speaks to me on so many levels.  It seems to really capture the essence of Handmade:

Consumer society has changed – Utility invites you use it

The global financial crisis, natural catastrophes, a surfeit of products and information are causing people to pause to think about and reflect on their current lifestyle. Nowadays, a decisive factor in purchasing decisions is the consideration about what is really important. Consumers are sick of design for design’s sake, Utility stands for simplicity, accessibility and an invitation to use. 

Products marketed aggressively in glossy brochures are being replaced by the untreated and fundamental. Designed for everyday use, Utility products give greater meaning to their relationship with the user and suggest a longer lifespan. The pure, modest and unadorned are celebrated.

The trend feature Makeshift shows how designers extol the mantra of simplicity, by adopting a “no waste, no demand” approach. 

Under the title Industrial Accents, simple, honest textile techniques convey a feeling of reassuring comfort. 

Workwear stands for products, which indicate stable values. Authentic, timeless objects create a hint of nostalgia, a feeling for heritage and for the handcrafted. 

For Utility Lux designers have taken their inspiration from standardised industry and commercial fitments to create a refined look.

As you can see every facet of this Utility trend can be applied to the Handmade movement and artisan goods you find on sites like Etsy.  Here are a few examples:

Mancala Game | Mr.Hudon Woodworker

Tan Bag from Recycled Suit | Groundsel

Subway Token Cuff Links | The Key of A

Reclaimed Aqua Window Shadow Box | The Savvy Shopper1

Stay tuned for the final trend, Wilderness.

~Lauren

Lauren is one of the Assistant Editors of Handmade Spark.