[EDITOR'S NOTE! Each year since forever, I've polled an annual selection of Portland's fashion-related industry insiders to get their takes on the best and worst of the past year, from trends to cultural moments, local and well beyond. I'll be spotlighting some of those responses on the blog, and in an upcoming issue of the Merc. Next up: Apparel designer Sara Bergman!]

BEST:

A lot of designers were referencing abstract paintings this year, which I loved! My favorite brand to watch was LF Markey. I also loved all the thoughtful handmade ceramics, and following the artist Hilda Hellström.

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  • LF Markey via Instagram

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  • Hilda Hellström

WORST:

My least favorite trend in 2015 was the overwhelming gentrification of Portland—making it so much harder for artists, musicians, makers and low-income communities to stay and thrive here.