Material Directions: SS 2023

October 18, 2022

Sleep

The pandemic saw an increase in forced self-awareness and a heightened preoccupation with wellbeing. Here, we focus on Sleep, no longer a guilty indulgence but more an aspect of self-care.

We’ve previously explored the reframing of rituals (in our AW 2020/21 forecast), for this season however, the focus shifts to how rest will manifest within our revised routines post-pandemic.

Structures of recuperation have become increasingly personalised, so sleep doesn’t necessarily need to be a deep lack of consciousness, but rather a dedicated period of relaxation time.

Finding the harmony between what we can control and what we can’t; the transition from dawn to dusk provides a circadian framework for daily comfort and reassurance. Feminine motifs and delicate tactility are integral to this vision of restful intervals. Despite a focus on materiality, this story is mindful of function.

Sleep was first published in MIX Magazine issue 64, and the following material and surface directions explored in more detail in our SS 2023 Global CMF Forecast.

Drowsy

Soporific markings capture a sense of drowsy hypnosis, reflecting Sleep’s affinity with circadian rhythms. Patterns avoid repetition, following their own unique passage, as seen above in the Boulder Table by Dirk van der Kooij.

In embroidered interiors Nya Nordiska utilise recycled PET yarn to form winding pathways, and flowing motifs are heightened by undulating surfaces working on both hard and soft materiality.

Zephyr Light

Sheer material directions in Home (AW 2022/23) develop as hard and soft materials are caught in motion with a subtle sheen. This effect is demonstrated in low resolution 3D printing techniques utilising recycled plastics by Kooij to create rippled lighting fixtures.

In fashion, transparency mimics rhythms of sleep through flowing fabrics, as seen in Dior’s Haute Couture.

Kuo Duo’s unique bookends are also encased in gauzy fabric to challenge preconceptions of functionality.

Work with Material and Colour?

Building on the design directions first published in MIX Magazine, our bi-annual Global CMF Forecast features concepts and colour and material palettes illustrated with more than 250 fully credited images.

Both publications are included in Colour Hive membership. Members can access our forecasts including Signals for AW 2023/24, Global CMF Forecast for AW 2023/24 and Design Impressions for SS 2023. Part Two of our insight for 2024 is out now.

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