We caught up with Janelle Gauthier, Women’s Design Director of Sitka for the latest info and details on 2012 swim trends.
What are some of the top trends you are seeing in next year’s swimwear as far as cuts, colors, fabrics, etc.?
For Spring 2012, cuts are one-piece silhouettes, 50′s inspired, high waisted bottoms, smocking (ruching) details, cut-out details, crochet accents, lace up detail, strapless, and structured underwire tops. Colors are indigo blue, navy, henna, tangerine/peach, and patterns. For fabrics, we’re still using our italian made Nylon Lycra for solid styles and introducing some digitally p rinted fabric for our more complex patterns.
What additions are you making for next year?
New 2012 cuts will consist of sporty cross back tops, several one-piece styles, more high waisted bottoms, and structured underire bra tops. We’re also increasing the color options for all styles, more solids and patterns will be available including an artist collaboration print.
Are there any trends we saw last season that we won’t see this time around?
We did step back from floral patterns for 2012, going heavier with other themes.
What are your thoughts on separates category? Is this becoming more or less important for your brand?
Separates work great for the end customers, allowing them to buy the appropriate size for both top and bottom, but it seems that some shops don’t sell separates because they don’t want to be left with random pieces at the end of the season. But, we sell ours wholesale as separates, so that accounts can match them as they want to sell them in store.
How are pricing and margins changing from next year’s line?
Our prices will likely be similar to last season.
Have the number of SKUs included in your collection increased or decreased, and why?
Increased! Spring 2011 was well recieved so we are able to offer our accounts new silhouettes and more color/pattern options.
What are some of your greatest successes for 2011?
Caroline-cheeky ruched bottom, Marilyn-reversible bandeau, Gidget-high waisted bottom, Joplin-crochet detailed top and bottom.
