KNITTING AND CROCHETING ARE HOT!

It's interesting how some fashion trends which have been around for so long disappear only to resurface after a while. Sometimes they resurface with an extra touch.

In the 1920s knitwear was very popular especially in the western world. Coco Chanel made prominent use of it and Vogue magazine featured assorted patterns. However, in the 1980s knitting lost its popularity, the craft was seen as old-fashion and children were no longer taught to knit in schools.

Knitwear is back and our fashion designers are using it creatively.

Amoan's Clothing launched a whole collection that combined knitting and fabric. Below are some of the pieces in that collection.

Ohema Ohene makes knitted cardigans that are fused with African print.

 

Another creative way in which the trend is being used is in making bags.

It’s amazing how we can see our African print fabrics neatly combined with knitting and crocheting. The outcome is classic and unique. 

Let's see how long this trend would be around for.

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Redesigning Your Store Layout

Your store layout has an influence on shopper behaviour. Your layout could either get shoppers to stay longer and buy more or get them to run out as soon as they enter.

No matter your store size, redesigning could be simple if you keep in mind these 4 concepts (Theme, Lighting, Atmosphere and Storefront).

Theme

Decide on your store's theme. The merchandise you have can help you figure out the kind of theme to choose. For instance, If you’re selling swimwear, you could probably have a beach theme. Colours play a big role in theme-setting. Using shades of grey and black creates a sensuous, sophisticated atmosphere whereas using bright yellows, greens, and blues create a fun atmosphere. Bright colours do not always have to be associated with children. Be creative. Be bold. Perhaps, it's time for you to finally pick a store theme or change the one you've been using for so long. Enjoy the process.

Lighting

Well placed lighting in stores go a long way to enhance design layouts. Soft lighting rather than harsh fluorescent lighting will create an inviting atmosphere. Also consider using spotlights to draw attention to products in your displays. Illuminating your products from beneath is a very effective trick to draw attention to them.
Pictured: The Vlisco store.

Atmosphere

You can alter your store's atmosphere by experimenting with furniture and different textures of fabric. For instance, Wood flooring will create a more inviting feel than linoleum. Consider adding lavish textures like satin. Furnishing your boutique in an unusual way could create style and help differentiate you - there are no hard and fast rules to this. Go ahead and be creative.

Storefront

Your storefront’s appearance will either draw shoppers or push them away. Your storefront should include distinct touches to give shoppers a taste of what you sell. Change the items in your displays every now and then to keep your store interesting for shoppers.

Remember, a well planned layout could greatly boost your sales. Consider doing some redecorating now that you have learnt a thing or two about layout. Maybe you should select a new theme, re-adjust your lighting system, or take the appearance of your storefront more seriously. Let’s see how your sale skyrockets when you do.

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