In February, designers showcase their fashion collections in major cities worldwide. As the shows wind down, it’s only a matter of time before what we see on the catwalk are at retailers in the next few months.  

MAGIC from Informa Markets Fashion was held twice in February: once in Las Vegas (with PROJECT and SOURCING at MAGIC) and New York City (with COTERIE). Post-show, Jordan Rudow, vice president, events, Informa Markets Fashion, shares the trends found on the show floors, which licensors and licensees may want to pay heed to for upcoming collaborations.  

Retro styles from the ’80s, ’90s and 2000s are returning to wardrobes on Gen Z. The look can be best described, as panelist Jessica Richards, trend forecaster, coined it, “Space Girl Spice Girl.” The new interpretation on the show floor allows all genders and generations to embrace the trend.  

“We’re still seeing cargo pants, bootcut flares and platform shoes across the board,” says Rudow. “Metallic accessories were all over the MAGIC show floor. Rosettes are also making a comeback.”  

Fabrics and colors can mark a season of style. Last season’s corset tops and stiff cowboy boots have given way to cozy cardigans and slouchy boots. More structure was found in accessories like oversized handbags, which were prevalent on the show floor. Materials like sheer and denim, usually layered, were also out in force at both MAGIC locales.  

Related:Guest Editor: Bringing MAGIC to Wholesale Fashion

“With double denim looks, designers are playing with tones and pockets,” says Rudow. “It’s not the matching denim-on-denim of the past.”  

The lines between straight-size and plus-size fashion seem to fade each season. Retailers are becoming more inclusive in retail and at MAGIC, where Blu Pepper, Boom Boom Jeans, Dex Clothing, Prince Peter Collection, Dippin Daisey’s, Lost + Wander, Moon River and Angie made a splash on the show floor.  

“Inclusive sizing in fashion continues to be a draw on the show floor,” says Rudow. “At MAGIC, 14% of our brands offer extended sizing.”  

Fashion is also this year’s theme at Licensing Expo, held from June 13-15 at Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas. Exhibitors and Attendees can expect to see fashion showrooms featuring best-in-class, cross-category licensed apparel and accessories. MAGIC returns to the Las Vegas Convention Center Aug. 7-9. MAGIC will be part of this year’s South x Southwest in Austin, Texas, March 10-11, where it will host a networking cocktail event at the annual music event, then head to Nashville April 26-27 at the Music City Center.