Great Expectations

When asked to forecast the Spring ’17 accessory market in three words, Jamara Ghalayini replied without skipping a beat: “Super. Easy. Money.” Ghalayini, the owner of Pumpkinheads in Brentwood, Calif., could barely keep up with the accessories flying off her shelves. “You never have to put them on sale because they always sell,” she exclaims. “We call them ‘neccessories.’” The accessory boom gained traction this year, according to several retailers, with a unanimous projection that accessories will be critical to sales come Spring ’17. Wondering what to stock up on? Think oldies but goodies, from wooden beads to retro patchwork.

Now, don’t get us wrong—the digital craze is still going strong, with every emoji accounted for, but the retro resurgence is a pivotal point in new collections. “I really believe these kids have less imaginative play opportunities,” reports Alex Hillson, owner and founder of Los Angeles-based jewelry company Bottleblond Jewels. “They are simply put in front of an iPad or television which doesn’t allow kids to use their imagination,” she says. Hillson believes that the market is starting to realize this deficiency and is taking small steps toward more classic kiddie styles. That being said, the sophisticated Mommy & Me trend remains prevalent in the market, but expect to see such twinning infused with more color and childlike elements for spring.

Between the Lines

A staple in entertainment for kids (and even adults nowadays) is coloring. While coloring books are the foundation for this fun and creative outlet, items like backpacks, pillows and socks represent a new canvas for kids to make their own individual statements. “At Crayola, we believe that creativity is cool,” states Jill Crane, product manager at the iconic company. “More and more, adults are finding that anyone at any age can benefit from the creative process.”  Indeed, the modern coloring craze is a great way for both kids and adults to disconnect from the wired world and spend some relaxing family time together.

Caliente Couture

According to Fashion Snoops Trend Editor Nicole Yee, the tropical trend we’re seeing for Spring ’17 is a result of President Obama lifting the embargo on Cuba. “Americans have access to a country that has been shut off to us and romanticized for decades,” Yee explains. “Hence, Chanel showed its Spring ’17 resort collection there, you have celebs visiting and it goes on.” Yee says to look for apparel launching into more tailored silhouettes from the ’50s and ’60s, reinvigorated with kitschy prints and mosaic tile patterns (another nod to retro). Palm tree, flamingo and parrot prints are off-the-charts for accessories. Lastly, top everything off with a straw fedora—not to mention a virgin Piña Colada.

In the Bag

Designer-inspired bags and backpacks continue to combine fashion with function. Bold prints and high-contrast colors steal the show for Spring ’17 as little girls—and even boys—are becoming bag-obsessed. “I see kids having bags like I have bags,” Ghalayini exclaims. “We have little girls with five, six, seven handbags! In fact, we do $60 add-on sales with Chloe K bags simply because it looks good with the outfit.” The No. 1 sack to stock? Keep an eye out for the rise of the bucket bag.   

Pretty in Past

Say hello to slap bracelets and chokers from the ’90s, and don’t forget the super trendy patchwork for customizing backpacks, hats and even laptops. Carol Adams, owner of Torly Kid in New York City, foresees another blast from the past piggybacking off a recent digital craze: Pokémon. “I believe Pokémon will be making a pretty big comeback next year due to the Pokémon Go app,” predicts Adams. In more couture pieces, wooden accessories are on the rise. “Wood lasts,” says Bottleblond’s Hillson. “It’s always been a really great material and safe for kids. It connotes quality.” While more synthetic materials are being swapped for good ol’ wood, designers like Tia Cibani are putting a modern twist on the classic beaded jewelry with bright colors, geometric shapes and satin ribbons.

Fragrant Fashion

Turns out the freshest trend for Spring ’17 is right under your nose. Designers ripped a page from the art of scratch ‘n’ sniff and applied its longstanding childhood appeal to every imaginable accessory. From a medical perspective, there are many studies that show fragrances can positively influence mood and behavior. Who knows? Maybe that strawberry-scented necklace will do the trick to calm a feisty 5-year-old. Regardless, catch a whiff of next year’s more aromatic accessories from necklaces and bracelets to keychains and plush.