Before joining WGSN, she spent five years as editorial director at Redwood, a major United Kingdom publishing agency, producing editorial content for such clients as Harvey Nichols, Marks & Spencer, Sotheby's, Virgin, Boots and British Telecom. Previously, she was a partner at the creative strategy consultancy The Fourth Room, and Managing Director, Marketing and Internet Development, at the Arcadia Group. 

What are some of the key global trends you see for next year and beyond?
From a fashion point of view, we are seeing two key themes. One is for decoration in clothing, confident clothes that make a statement for the wearer. The second is for stripped-back simplicity, a trend that speaks to people who are trying to rationalise their lives. As for global youth trends, we believe they are very much about finding your own voice and point of view. We see people mixing different looks into their own trademark look – mixing urban, street style with a preppy look for instance. And with the economic downturn, people are buying statement investment pieces and mixing them with value-priced basics.

What are your observations about Asian trends? To what extent do you see the region as a trendsetter for the rest of the world?
Asia is very much a trendsetter right now. People across the world look to see what is being worn in Hong Kong, Seoul and Tokyo and Shanghai. And designers and brands across the world keep in mind the Chinese customer, sometimes tailoring ranges specifically for this market, sometimes changing the sizing to ensure the fit is correct. 

What about Hong Kong's fashion industry? How do you see it?
Vibrant and eclectic. I think some of the best retail in the world is on view in Hong Kong. 

Can you tell us more about the science that goes behind tracking trends?
We track trends in two ways. We look at the trends that trickle down from catwalks and opinion leaders such as celebrities, musicians, actors and artists around the world. And we track the bubble-up trends that we see from our spotters around the world, who look at what is happening on the street.

What is your advice to designers in light of the global economic downturn?
Be confident about ensuring your range has a point of view. It is so important right now to do something that distinguishes you in the market.

What in your opinion determines what will become the next "it" in the market?
Well, there are always a lot of things we are in love with. Right now, we are very interested in where the platform shoe is going to go next, and we love wedge shoes. 

Juliet Warkentin spoke at a seminar on global trends during Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer 2010, 6-9 July.