Soft glossy leathers a must at Lineapelle Spring

The Spring edition of Lineapelle, which will take place of 17-19 April, will host 1,300 exhibitors from 50 countries, at the Bologna fair district. The exhibitors in Bologna will show their collections of leathers, synthetics, components and accessories for Spring-Summer 2008, inspired by the theme of taste. The distinguishing features will be: cold pale dazzling colours, aromatic deep tones, sour fresh hues and spiced dry tones. Dazzling colours will include ice white, anthracite grey, dove grey, which emphasize volumes, shapes and materials. Blue, black and purple will never be flat and add rigour and geometry, alternated with soft glossy looks. On the other hand, lemon yellow, orange and acid green will inspire light transparent looks. Finally, the warmest colours, including all ochre and brown shades, are used to revisit the classic style in a modern mood. The season's must will be soft glossy leather obtained with irregular glass-like coats and makeshift-looking paints. Metallic looks will therefore gain a soft feel thanks to elaborated finishing methods. As confirmed over the course of the latest edition of Anteprima, held in Milan on March 1-2, the most evident trends speak of an end of the vintage era, while patent leather, laminated leather and pearly looks will be still hot. All natural leathers, drummed finishes and conspicuous grains like deer leather proved to be particularly popular. According to Lineapelle Trend Selection experts, women's shoes in summer 2008 will be square in shape, have decorated exaggerated heels to obtain experimental contrasts; while men's shoes will have aggressive-looking and over-decorated uppers, and soles with conspicuous welts. Bags are increasingly large in size and made with softer materials. Small details - especially precious metal and wood - will resume their leading role. As usual, Lineapelle will stage training courses on materials and finishing methods. In addition, the new Italian Leather certification, will be officially launched during the fair, as well as a new body called “Poli Conciari” (Tanning Districts) recently established to reaffirm the synergy between tanning districts and their tanners.