Designers often find themselves predicting trends and desires well before they become popular or necessary. This involves forecasting how people will feel about certain products, designs, or aesthetics a year down the line. The process requires an understanding not only of current sentiments but also of future aspirations and needs.
At its core, this quote highlights the challenging nature of design as a predictive science. Designers must consider both present feelings and potential future desires. This dual perspective acts as a psychological challenge because it demands that designers step outside their immediate emotional states to anticipate how they—or more accurately, their audience—will feel in the coming months or years. Such an approach necessitates a blend of creativity, empathy, and foresight, pushing the designer to not just react but to lead by envisioning and shaping what could be wanted.
Michael Bastian is known for his insightful views on fashion design and style. As a successful American menswear designer, he has built a reputation for creating timeless yet forward-looking collections that resonate with both contemporary trends and aspirational aesthetics. His quote encapsulates the essence of creative leadership in an industry where innovation meets consumer expectations.
