If Melbourne is Australia's style captial, then Incu is it's twin city. Last year the Sydney stores brought us JUSTICE. x Surface to Air leather jackets. This year, they're the only Australian store to bring us the RVCA x Erin Wasson. Vincent Wu - who owns the store with his brother Brian - and buyer Tara D'cruz-Noble took time out form the European buying trip to give TheVine a taste of things to come this year.

What are the biggest trends in mens and womenswear you think will take off in 2009?
Vincent: I think menswear will continue to be more dressy and sophisticated in the near future focusing on fits and quality fabrics rather than bold colours and crazy fits. A more preppy aesthetic will definitely come through whilst clean collections from Scandinavia will still do well. I think slim chinos will be strong in the near future for those guys who are getting a little sick of wearing denim everyday. Guys will be willing to pay a premium price for good quality apparel and footwear... pieces they believe they will wear for a long time.

Tara: For womenswear a boyish aesthetic will still hold strong, but detailing will be a key feature for 2009. Elegant simple tailoring will see pleats and paperbag waists on shorts, skirts and boyfriend-style trousers. For winter, cocoon-like jumpers with an oversized fit will be a wardrobe staple. Designers are using print to distinguish their designs and the leopard print will make a return as a fun timeless favourite. Exposed zips, wedge heel booties and bowler hats are a few other features we'll see in '09.

What new labels in-store in 2009?
Vincent: We're doing a brand called Lyle & Scott from Scotland with a 130 year history in the design and manufacture of authentic Scottish knitwear. They have created a "Vintage" collection that is inspired by the colourful golf designs of the '70s and '80s and has been revitalised by bands like Bloc Party and Arctic Monkeys.

Tara: For the ladies, we're eagerly awaiting the arrival of our new overseas brands. Alexander Wang, Opening Ceremony, Peter Jensen and Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair will bring an exciting fresh flavour to the store. There's always new eye candy in our accessories cabinets too. Natalia Brilli from Paris makes strangely beautiful necklaces and bracelets by encasing objects in the finest soft leather.

Last year delivered some genius collabs e.g. surface 2 air and JUSTICE. Is the collab nearing its end as a trend and what exciting ones will you be stocking for 2009?

Vincent: There are definitely way too many collaborations around at the moment but I think if it's done properly with both parties contributing equally then it always results in something amazing. I think collabs will be around for a lot longer but consumers will be smart enough to know which ones are genuinely interesting and which ones are there to just make money.
 
Yeah, for mens we have an exciting collaboration between Raf Simons and Dr. Martens which should be pretty interesting. He never does anything unless they're pretty crazy! Fred Perry has also done a collection of classic Harrington jackets with a British designer called Peter Jensen. The Harrington jacket references Peter's eccentric and instantly recognisable eye for design and detail and will be offered in black and blue gingham.

Tara: We're really exciting to be the exclusive Australian stockist for the Erin Wasson x RVCA collaboration. Expect a laidback LA infused style - racer back silk tanks, cut-off denim shorts and relaxed fit blazers. We've also got our hands on the A.P.C. + Nike sneaker partnership.

We’re heading towards recession. Has this changed the way you buy and what you buy to stock in your stores?
When times get tough we look towards brands that are consistently strong on all levels and I think customers also look towards a label they have faith in. Recession or no recession, we tend to avoid one hit wonders and go for clothing that will stand the test of time. The best thing people can do when a recession hits is to spend rather than worry about saving cash as this fuels the cycle.

What tips do you have for readers on how to stay current on a budget?
Investing in one or two really well-made current styles will allow your wardrobe to have lots of interchangeable outfits. Think wisely about spending a bit more on something that will last for years. The blazer is still a hot favourite with designers like Alexander Wang and Lover - they can be worn day or night, with skinny jeans or a cute dress and super high heels.

Incu Clothing
256 Oxford Street, Paddington NSW +61 2 9331 6070
The Galeries Victoria, 500 George St, Sydney NSW +61 2 9266 0244