It’s that time of year again and the trade shows are in full swing! A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to absorb 2011’s Spring/Summer fashion predictions at the Premiere Vision and Supima Cotton trade shows. In addition to viewing the fabric displays, I attended David Wolfe’s presentation. Wolfe is the Creative Director at The Doneger Group and always an enlightening voice in the world of trend forecasting.

The most compelling part of Wolfe’s presentation focused on Designer and Illustrator, Kenzo Takada. Takada is best known for his global brand, Kenzo, however his early days in Tokyo and Paris were defined by his runway illustrations. After each show, he would distribute printed copies of his hand made sketches, broadcasting all of high society’s fashion trends. Just as today’s generation of live runway bloggers are altering the industry playing field, Takada’s drawings similarly exposed each clothing concept, allowing other designers to copy and reinterpret for their own clients. With just a few markers, a sharp memory, the local printing press and impeccable drawings, Takada single-handedly altered fashion consumption forever- an impressive feat, considering the internet played no role in distribution.