WGSN – 10 Global Issues that Count in 2010

As part of the 2010 L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival, I was lucky to have been given the opportunity to attend the WGSN Edit: 10 Global Issues that Count in 2010.

(My WGSN Ticket!!)


The 2.5 hour presentation was held at Central Pier, Docklands and hosted by WGSN Content Director, Juliette Warkentin.

(LMFF entrance at Central Pier Docklands)

Being an avid reader of fashion blogs and street-style websites, as well as possessing a passion for fashion research and trends, it was only natural for me to become a huge fan when I first discovered WGSN while studying Fashion Design.


For those of you who haven’t heard of WGSN, is an online tool which identifies and analyses current and future trends. It boasts a client base of over 36,000 members that includes both high profile haute couture designers and smaller independent labels. Juliette describes what WGSN does as a combination of “magic and science”, as not only does it help “transform businesses” it is also a key driver in “shaping the future.”


A classic example is the ‘gladiator’ sandal trend. WGSN first spotted the gladiator sandal in 2007 and listed it as a key shape in 2007. By 2008 the gladiator sandal was seen down the runways at Fashion Weeks. In 2009, the gladiator sandal was announced Retail’s Top Seller.

(Runway Daily)


Juliette shared with us her insight into the key drivers affecting design-led businesses, from apparel-product development to retail and consumer trends for the upcoming year. There was a lot of information to absorb and I practically spent the whole time scribbling down notes (and munching on the free lunch box provided with our goodie bag hehe). I will be bringing up some of these important topics later on in my blog, but for now: A big THANK YOU to I SPY STYLE for awarding me with the ticket! Make sure you check out their awesome website here! xx

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