The bright, cheery neons of spring and summer have given way to Fall 2009's color palette of black and dark gray, as seen in this editorial from Japanese magazine SENSE. Photographer Junji Hata captures model Rutger Derksen in an array of recession-approved apparel, courtesy of stylist Tomoki Sukezane.
We've featured a number of fall collections that draw heavily upon the gloom of the economy and the return of multifunctional fashions in basic black. Check out some recession-approved fashions below.
Drab Recession Chic
SENSE Magazine Editorial Features Gloomy Menswear for Fall 2009
Trend Themes
1. Dark Palette - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to the traditional dyeing process for dark-colored clothing to meet the rising demand for recession-inspired fashion.
2. Gloom Fashion - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create innovative ways to incorporate technology into gloomy menswear, such as using smart fabrics that change color or texture based on the wearer's mood or the surrounding environment.
3. Recession Apparel - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introduce a rental or subscription-based service for recession-approved apparel, allowing customers to have access to trendy and affordable clothing without the need for ownership.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborate with fashion designers and retailers to create exclusive collections of recession-inspired clothing that cater to the growing demand for recession chic.
2. Textile - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new textile materials that mimic the appearance and feel of luxury fabrics at a fraction of the cost, providing affordable options for recession-inspired fashion.
3. Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Innovate wearable technology solutions that can monitor and analyze consumers' spending habits, providing real-time suggestions for affordable and recession-friendly fashion choices.