Atlanta Apparel the fair that caters to young, contemporary fashion accessories was held from February 1 to 5, 2017. More than 26 per cent of temporary exhibitors were new vendors across all categories, including footwear, resort, jewelry and fashion accessories.

Exhibitors from Kentucky to Florida flocked to young contemporary collections that emphasised a wide range of prints and solids, textures and embellishments. Florals, stripes and muted pastels in rayon and modal blends and soft knits were strong. Many pieces featured embellishments such as lace and border prints were on display. Lingerie-inspired pieces that function as foundation layers were popular among juniors, along with flowy, poet-sleeve and cold-shoulder tops. Colored and light denims remained strong, mostly in straight- and skinny-leg silhouettes.

This season, the Atlanta Apparel market expanded the number of temporary exhibitors to more than 1000. At its core, February market is an order writing show, and buyers and exhibitors alike made the most of it. At Umgee’s jam-packed booth, last-minute buyers reviewed crowded racks of bestsellers with an air of frantic contemplation. Umgee’s longtime buyers tend to prefer ordering at shows rather than online.

Boutiques stocked up on bestsellers including bracelets and affordable, easy-to-wear spring separates. Unique and customised casual accessories are what customers are looking for.