The Bite Magazine - issue 16

P aris is always the centre of any- thing new in fashion in all its forms and this year’s Mode City exhibition which was moved from Paris to Lyon due to the Euro 2016 Finals being held in the capital, displayed one of the strongest seasons for lingerie yet. Set against a backdrop of unseasonably warm weather, this year the tradeshow had a serious holiday vibe with swimwear taking centre stage. A melee of brands, textile merchants, sem- inars and fashion shows all under one roof could get overbearing but Mode City balances its many different faces well and is undoubtedly a mine of knowledge for its visitors. What’s been exciting for lingerie and swimwear in recent seasons is how diverse the sector has become. More than just simple staples that are always present yet rarely considered, style and trend have become central to these industries as well as the addition of newer categories such as beach acces- sories and spa wear. With a renewed fashion focus on active wear and the ongoing trend for it to be worn outside the realms of physical activity its no sur- prise that leisure wear and spa wear is also becoming a bigger industry into itself. This season saw a continued revo- lution for swimsuits; with more and more designers waking up to the fact that swimsuits are more often less for swimming and more for sunbathing. The designs on display were more colour- ful, decorated and detailed. As with any industry, lingerie and beachwear also have their trends and this year the Mode City trend forum identified different themes for SS16. Mythology and iconography, which will undoubtedly lend itself to Dolce & Gabbana-eqsue celebrations of print and narcissism, a ‘Kardashian’ led trend of revealing sensuality and the use of super fitted silhouettes in simple muted hues, are likely to be the most prevalent this season. Mode City has always been a transversal fashion show, bringing together a large range of designer swimwear, RTW and in recent years they’ve included beach accessories. Hats, bags and shoes as well as beach towels and even beach friendly jewellery have all become more than just an afterthought and more brands are opening up to encapsulate a full range beyond just beachwear. Perhaps the most exciting part of the exhibition was the rise in the ‘spa’ trend. Activewear has seen a serious transi- tion into everyday wear over the past few seasons and now leisurewear or ‘spa wear’ is set to follow.With concern for wellbeing becoming more and more of a trend alongside ‘clean eating’ and fitness, the wellness associated with a relaxing spa visit and opting for targeted treat- ments is a natural progression. And a visit to a resort spa really does open up opportunities for new product lines and one piece swimsuits (perfect for lazing in a sauna or Jacuzzi), loungewear and stylish pyjama styles that can happily be worn outside and softer robes all took centre stage, alongside accessories such as sunglasses, hats and pool friendly footwear. www.modecity.b-network.com bite exhibition