Research Suggests That Wool Popularity is on the Rise

On this week’s Dian Skelton blog, I will be discussing the suggestion that the popularity of wool is on the rise. Although one particular article on this matter points out that wool productions for the 2014/2015 period is expected to be at its lowest for 70 years, it would seem that wool is now a premium fabric product.

Dian Skelton is Director at ViewPoint Software Services Limited, founder of the MostlyManx artisan shop on the Isle of Man and co-owner of the Laxey Woollen Mills. The Mills specialises in producing Laxey Manx Tartan which is unique to the Isle of Man.

One of the key acknowledgments from Premiere Vision in Paris was that Europeans are ditching their work suits in favour of woollen jackets and sports coats, with experts predicting an upward trend for the local woollen industry. Eamon Timms from wool broker’s Fox and Lillie Rural, described this trend as a ‘casualisation’ on the traditional dress code.  

A Lucrative Industry

The latter sentiment is further supported by the financial figures involved in the woollen industry. Wool apparel sells for a retail value of around $80 billion across the world and its price often averages five to seven times more than cotton.

Leading wool producer Australia has experienced recent droughts that have contributed to the decline of wool production as well as New Zealand, China and the U.S. further curtailing production. This goes some way to explaining the 70 year low that wool production is currently at. However, there is greater optimise for 2015 having seen Australian sheep numbers level after a 20 year decline.

Wool Popularity Growing in the Fashion Industry

In a recent article by ABC.net, a student at RMIT’s School of Fashion and Textiles, Samantha Bruechert, said that more and more designers were looking at wool when creating evening and formal wear describing it as a renewed enthusiasm for wool in the fashion industry. “There are a lot more local designers who are emphasising the use of [wool]”

Dian Skelton’s Thoughts

As you will know, Dian Skelton reader, Dian is a firm advocate of tradition and education. She echoed the sentiment of Mr Timms when he said “Do what your country does best, and grow the most of it that you can.” Dian also said she was pleased to see younger fashion designers like Miss Bruechert promoting the use of wool and using it creatively.   

Dian Skelton – Director – ViewPoint Software Services Limited