By Jane Han
Staff Reporter
No more mid-thigh or slightly above ― this summer, be prepared to see a new kind of miniskirt. Don't expect anything longer than 25 centimeters.
Fashion experts say that hemlines will rise as high as they can go ― about 5 to 10 centimeters shorter than usual ― refreshing the few-seasons-old mini look with a new edge.
``Women's skirts are going to get shorter as the economy continues its downswing cycle,'' says Shinsegae Department Store's chief merchandiser, Chung Il-chae, adding that the ``cool look'' is going to help raise people's spirits.
Some say that skirt lengths get shorter during turbulent times, helping makers save on fabric costs, and onlookers are happier seeing more skin. But others claim that rising hemlines actually point to an economic recovery.
Regardless of the economic implications, Chung said some of the new season's hottest must-have items include micro miniskirts, mini-dresses and mini-scarves.
``Everything is going to shrink,'' he said, explaining that brands such as Benetton, Le Shop and Qua are going to get a head start in introducing the latest minis to shoppers through a three-day sale starting Apr. 23.
There is one vital fashion item necessary to complete the mini look: sky-high heels.
And experts tell women that the shoes with more than 10 centimeter high, so-called ``kill heels,'' are going to remain a must-have.
``Don't think about lowering those heels,'' says Kim Sun-ae, a shop manager at Lotte Department Store. ``There's nothing that complements a miniskirt better than a pair of power heels.''
High-end brands such as Manolo Blahnik and Christian Louboutin offer a wide range of variations, but the more economic labels, including Nine West, also carry a good mix of stilettos, says Kim.
One non-traditionally popular item that's set to be in this summer is the jump suit, according to fashion watchers.
Jump suits are one-piece garments that have recently been getting touted as A-list items. As local retailers forecast that jump suits are going to shine this summer, they've imported various designs from labels including Stella McCartney and Barbara Bui.
``This is a relatively new style for Korean consumers, but we're betting that it's going to be a big hit,'' said an executive of Hyundai Department Store.