BRIEFING: just-style’s review of the apparel industry in 2008

2008 was a year of surprises for the international clothing and textile sector, many of them unpleasant. It was of course the year when the first global recession since the early 1990s hit the world, and inevitably this has impacted on international trading patterns and the fortunes of industry players, big and small... But the clothing and textile sector is known for its resilience and innovation so there was plenty of progress in 2008 as well. Its ability to change direction fast to meet new markets and tastes will be essential in 2009, as the sector starts the long climb out of the current economic slump. Here just-style reviews 2008, month by month.