So how did IBM eschew business machines to become a player in the world of fashion trend forecasting?

FORBES: Fashion's Biggest Trend in 2013-2015 (as Predicted by IBM)? Steampunk

In 1997, along with my brother, we revolutionised the trends information business with the launch of Worth Global Style Network (WGSN), which went on to become "the fashion industry bible" (The Wall Street Journal), providing trend forecasting, market research and data for retailers, manufacturers and designers.

FORBES: CEO, Stylus.com

"Consumers are looking back to periods of fashion that remind them of opportunity, " agrees Michael Fisher, menswear editor at Stylesight, a trend forecasting firm.

FORBES: Magazine Article