Top 20 garments & fashion accessories (April 2014): Lace fabrics post hot numbers

Three-digit growth rates in buyer inquiries allowed three categories to storm into GlobalSources.com's list of top 20 garments and fashion accessories in April 2014.

Leading first-time entrants at 17th spot is lace fabrics. The line posted 219 percent more RFIs from March and an impressive 2,599 percent surge YoY. Many of the latest releases are yarn-dyed, and feature vivid hues that can withstand wear and repeated washing. Nylon and cotton models dominate selections. Upscale versions are made using computerized machines, and are blended with spandex or Lycra for improved stretch.

Newcomer women's sunglasses, meanwhile, gathered a 165 percent on-month increase in inquiries, landing in 19th place. The category was edged in the rankings by another first-timer, hardside luggage, which registered an almost 40 percent rise in monthly RFIs and more than 2,000 percent ascent YoY.

After dropping out of the list last month, PU belts returned to the top 20 at number 14 with a more than fourfold jump in buyer inquiries.