Uncategorized
April 22, 2010 •
Bread & Roses
What to seek — and stock — in 2009
Bread and Roses was a famous slogan attributed to a 1912 textile worker strike. The idea behind it was that people need to eat, but they also need something pretty in their lives. A similar approach is taken by today’s “recessionista” consumers: The focus is on utility — after all, it’s easier to justify spending money on an item that serves a purpose — but it’s still hard to resist cutting-edge design.
Bearing that modern maxim in mind, we’ve compiled a bevy of product that falls into both categories, showing three vendors’ interpretations of each in order to hint at its dimensions and directions. Use this as a shopping guide, or to help you make sense of the complex cavalcade of merchandise on display at winter shows.
Product Categories
Boards
(clip and dry erase)
Veritable fashion accessories, these can suggest personal style much like a handbag.
Coasters
The product is a category to watch, with letterpressed options keeping it on the cutting edge.
Decals
Removable and reusable, these effortlessly set a scene with no muss and little fuss!
Gift card holders
No-brainer gifts especially deserve great presentations.
Magazine holders
Move over file folders, there are magazines to organize, too!
Sets of sales
With their promise of a coordinated, polished look, self-contained sales hold a special allure.
Upscale partyware
Suggest these accessories as quick “pick”-ups for any get-together.
Plates
Approach this category as you would a personalized stationery order — completely catered to a customer’s whims.
Calendars
This must-stock category reveals fresh presentations, reinventing itself for the New Year.
Design Elements
With selections ranging from apples to sweets, the season offers something scrumptious for every taste.
Apples
This red fruit symbolizes so much, making for a delicious subject.
Chain link
In any medium or permutation, this timeless element alludes to couture glasses, handbags, necklaces and scarves.
Embroidery & stitching
These most elegant of embellishments garner fans in any fabulous form.
Felt
Something about this soft fabric makes for irresistible children’s products.
Japanese papers / inspirations
Authentic papers and favorite icons assume central stage.
Paisley
Its origins may be disputed — no one agrees whether it’s a closed fist or stylized plant — but today’s statements clearly range from pared down to ornate.
Patchwork
Here’s a trend that can go preppy, innocent or boho chic, depending on the designer’s whim.
Petals
Stylized designs showcase images inspired by if not actually found in nature.
Roosters
These perennial favorites can go country, folksy and mod — sometimes simultaneously!
Scalloped edges
Look for fun effects ranging from formal to playful.
Sweets
These enticing treats are easy on both the eyes and the waistline.
