Divided into six sections, the presentation covers leather surface ideas for shoes and leathergoods, for upholstery and for garments in a format that gives an eye-catching and easily assimilated pictorial overview of the fashion scene for the period. Colours and textures of both leather samples and illustrations are chosen to give the reader a feeling for the moods that can be created for the exciting new articles and fashions that are to be supported by the world wide leather industry for availability in the high street in 2009.
Luxury is presented in ‘Plus Class’ on silky surfaces, reminiscent of evening romance and elegantly styled cars yet looking forward to some of today’s eloquent designs for partying or dining out with friends.
More contemporary in simple, refined styles are ‘Evolving Shapes’, a look that is designed for subtle Rubbery Surfaces and modern shapes. Here are attractive, simple designs in colours that speak of modern and almost simplistic styles with their clean lines.
In contrast, the look of the countryside with its rough-hewn surfaces and designs comes in the ‘Magnificent Rural’. Evocative surfaces drawn from east and west are created on Raw Spirit surfaces to give a traditional, rural, folksy atmosphere.
‘Grand Bazaar’, as its name implies, is a world of oriental splendour. Just as the Turkish or North African Bazaar and Moorish architecture provide a picture of drama through decoration, so the Damask Richness of these surfaces create rich, opulent leathers that fit so well into this fashion scene wherever it may appear.
Much less opulent, but nevertheless with more than little hint of the country rustic, is ‘Bohemian Reverie’, quiet folklore styles on Dried Softness surfaces. Styles are frequently reminiscent of the countryside but can be equally stylish and smart. The choice is there to be made by the wearer.
And finally, as always, the modern contemporary look is expressed in ‘Sungliders’. Surfaces are Glazed Performance who gloss hits straight in the eye. Colours are not just vibrant, they are positively striking and rich, especially when shining through these transparent surfaces which can be smooth or embossed according to mood.
Colours range right across the spectrum. Rich and vibrant, cool and pastel, the choice depends on the style and the application for which it is being used. Stahl’s Leather and Technology Forecast gives advanced guidance on what will be used, how and where. This is Stahl’s ultimate guide to styling in leather fashion for the spring and summer of 2009.
