Thursday, April 28, 2011
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Fashion Marketing 101
Amie Pronowski
In a nutshell, fashion marketing is a profession that takes the latest trends and designs in clothing and communicates them to a target market in such a way that the consumer is not only aware of the product, but wants to and ultimately does buy the product. A target market is a sector of the consumer market to which a company wishes to sell (i.e. market) its clothing. To fully know what fashion marketing is, it is important to understand that marketing does not stop at ads in magazines or commercials on TV. The world of marketing is just as dynamic as the world of fashion. Marketing clothing includes elements such as determining which stores the apparel should be sold in, what price the clothing should be sold for—all the way to how the in-store displays should look. Fashion marketers often are as savvy about business as they are about fashion and popular culture.
Fashion marketers are creative. At the core, the profession is about connecting with the image—the lifestyle—the consumer wants. For example, in the fashion industry, comfort, style, material, color, symmetry, and usability are just the beginning of a list of elements designers must consider when developing a line of clothing. Fashion marketers take the task a step further by determining the best way to promote the characteristics of the clothing to the consumer and to which group of consumers to promote it to. What a 65 year-old female is looking for from a piece of formal eveningwear is completely different from what a 21 year-old male wants from casual everyday wear. Consequently, fashion marketers must stay abreast with the latest fashions as well as know what styles will be successful for a variety of occasions, age groups and demographics.
Fashion marketers play an essential role within the fashion industry because they are the link between designers and the public. The success of a line of clothing does not rest solely on its design. Often, successful marketing is just as crucial, if not more so, to the line as the actual clothing itself. This is because marketing is the tool through which the designer identifies with the public, and the public identifies with the designer. Without this exchange, it would be difficult to establish the consumer base required to have a successful line of clothing.
In a nutshell, fashion marketing is a profession that takes the latest trends and designs in clothing and communicates them to a target market in such a way that the consumer is not only aware of the product, but wants to and ultimately does buy the product. A target market is a sector of the consumer market to which a company wishes to sell (i.e. market) its clothing. To fully know what fashion marketing is, it is important to understand that marketing does not stop at ads in magazines or commercials on TV. The world of marketing is just as dynamic as the world of fashion. Marketing clothing includes elements such as determining which stores the apparel should be sold in, what price the clothing should be sold for—all the way to how the in-store displays should look. Fashion marketers often are as savvy about business as they are about fashion and popular culture.
Fashion marketers are creative. At the core, the profession is about connecting with the image—the lifestyle—the consumer wants. For example, in the fashion industry, comfort, style, material, color, symmetry, and usability are just the beginning of a list of elements designers must consider when developing a line of clothing. Fashion marketers take the task a step further by determining the best way to promote the characteristics of the clothing to the consumer and to which group of consumers to promote it to. What a 65 year-old female is looking for from a piece of formal eveningwear is completely different from what a 21 year-old male wants from casual everyday wear. Consequently, fashion marketers must stay abreast with the latest fashions as well as know what styles will be successful for a variety of occasions, age groups and demographics.
Fashion marketers play an essential role within the fashion industry because they are the link between designers and the public. The success of a line of clothing does not rest solely on its design. Often, successful marketing is just as crucial, if not more so, to the line as the actual clothing itself. This is because marketing is the tool through which the designer identifies with the public, and the public identifies with the designer. Without this exchange, it would be difficult to establish the consumer base required to have a successful line of clothing.
Stylish Messenger Bags
Chris Rodriguez
Messenger bags are not only an ideal way to transport your items from point A to point B, but they have become somewhat of a fashion statement as well. It used to be that only bicycle messengers would carry these bags, but now everyone from students to business people can be seen carrying their own stylish messenger bag.
Comfort and convenience are of utmost importance and are tastefully combined in these messenger's bags. Men and women from all walks of life can look smart and sophisticated as they go about their daily business with their messenger carrying bag. Manufacturers are starting to create bag styles that appeal to an even broader range of lifestyles. This means there are messenger bags out there to suit everyone's tastes.
The fact that these messenger's bags are made with waterproof vinyl fabric sewn together with heavy duty stitching and protective padding gives you comfort in knowing your precious cargo will be protected from bumps and drops. There is plenty of space in a messenger carrying bag for all of your necessities such as laptops, business files, and other items. With all of the functionality of a briefcase, a messenger bag is more convenient for commuters who travel by foot or bicycle.
Messenger bags are not only an ideal way to transport your items from point A to point B, but they have become somewhat of a fashion statement as well. It used to be that only bicycle messengers would carry these bags, but now everyone from students to business people can be seen carrying their own stylish messenger bag.
Comfort and convenience are of utmost importance and are tastefully combined in these messenger's bags. Men and women from all walks of life can look smart and sophisticated as they go about their daily business with their messenger carrying bag. Manufacturers are starting to create bag styles that appeal to an even broader range of lifestyles. This means there are messenger bags out there to suit everyone's tastes.
The fact that these messenger's bags are made with waterproof vinyl fabric sewn together with heavy duty stitching and protective padding gives you comfort in knowing your precious cargo will be protected from bumps and drops. There is plenty of space in a messenger carrying bag for all of your necessities such as laptops, business files, and other items. With all of the functionality of a briefcase, a messenger bag is more convenient for commuters who travel by foot or bicycle.
The Power Of Color In Business
Linda Thomas
THERE IS POWER IN YOUR CLOSET and it is in the color of your clothes. All people have physiological response to color. The following chart is to be used to dress appropriately for what you wane to achieve. Assuming your closer is already filled with favorites where every item fits you perfectly (for the body as it honestly is today), look to the colors you choose to give you the extra impact to make all your goals a slam dunk!
For businesswomen, the most effective colors are charcoal grey and navy blue. Even though spring is here and bright colors are in fashion, there is power in the colors we sometimes think of as boring or just for winter. When you are dealing with money, people and legal matters, your clients or prospects want to be reassured that you are dependable, trustworthy and focused on the matters at hand. The darker the shade of every color, the more down to earth and reliable you appear. Greys project authority. Blues project trust. Darken these two colors and you can see why they are so effective when you go to a meeting to sign a contract, discuss a raise or promotion, or deal with lawyers and bankers.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the lighter a shade is, the softer your impact is on others. If you are a leader on a project, in your company or an association, your purpose is not always to be in the limelight. There are times you need to gather information while NOT drawing attention to yourself. There are times you need to deliver hard news, conduct an exit interview or deal with an emotionally changed group of people. Pastel blue, soft yellows and light pinks will help you visually soothe the people you could be at odds with. These are situations when you do not wear red. Red is known as "the" power color, but here is the reasoning behind that. When we see red, our blood pressure increases slightly, as does our brain activity. What red is great for is when you are giving a presentation and you want people to remember what you said. Wearing red helps others more easily retain your message because their brain activity is in a heightened state.
So many women have closets with an overabundance of black clothes. We rend to think it hides our flaws and/or extra weight. It can, but black does more than that. It is a great networking color among others in leadership positions. Yet when we are with subordinates, head-¬to-toe black can be seen as a wall around the authority figure that can stop the flow of open communication. People can see you as the leader (when you wear black), but may not volunteer feedback, insight or information if they do not want to challenge you as the leader. "She can handle it," may be the prevailing attitude as others remain in the background watching you handle the hard tasks. If you are a manager and your department is not forthcoming with you, you may be overwhelming them with the black in your wardrobe. Medium shades of any other color will draw others to you when you want more interaction.
THERE IS POWER IN YOUR CLOSET and it is in the color of your clothes. All people have physiological response to color. The following chart is to be used to dress appropriately for what you wane to achieve. Assuming your closer is already filled with favorites where every item fits you perfectly (for the body as it honestly is today), look to the colors you choose to give you the extra impact to make all your goals a slam dunk!
For businesswomen, the most effective colors are charcoal grey and navy blue. Even though spring is here and bright colors are in fashion, there is power in the colors we sometimes think of as boring or just for winter. When you are dealing with money, people and legal matters, your clients or prospects want to be reassured that you are dependable, trustworthy and focused on the matters at hand. The darker the shade of every color, the more down to earth and reliable you appear. Greys project authority. Blues project trust. Darken these two colors and you can see why they are so effective when you go to a meeting to sign a contract, discuss a raise or promotion, or deal with lawyers and bankers.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the lighter a shade is, the softer your impact is on others. If you are a leader on a project, in your company or an association, your purpose is not always to be in the limelight. There are times you need to gather information while NOT drawing attention to yourself. There are times you need to deliver hard news, conduct an exit interview or deal with an emotionally changed group of people. Pastel blue, soft yellows and light pinks will help you visually soothe the people you could be at odds with. These are situations when you do not wear red. Red is known as "the" power color, but here is the reasoning behind that. When we see red, our blood pressure increases slightly, as does our brain activity. What red is great for is when you are giving a presentation and you want people to remember what you said. Wearing red helps others more easily retain your message because their brain activity is in a heightened state.
So many women have closets with an overabundance of black clothes. We rend to think it hides our flaws and/or extra weight. It can, but black does more than that. It is a great networking color among others in leadership positions. Yet when we are with subordinates, head-¬to-toe black can be seen as a wall around the authority figure that can stop the flow of open communication. People can see you as the leader (when you wear black), but may not volunteer feedback, insight or information if they do not want to challenge you as the leader. "She can handle it," may be the prevailing attitude as others remain in the background watching you handle the hard tasks. If you are a manager and your department is not forthcoming with you, you may be overwhelming them with the black in your wardrobe. Medium shades of any other color will draw others to you when you want more interaction.
Fashion Style Is Important
Sher Matsen
Fashion style is important. You clothes make your fashion statement, and how you're perceived. Stand straight and carry yourself with grace. You will radiate self confidence.
Here are some fashion tips and advice to look and feel good. Don't forget your jewelry accessories are like the icing on the cake. They are the finishing touch. Dress to Impress and Make Your Fashion Statement!
Fashion Tips
Make sure your wardrobe has plenty of neutrals on hand - they are perfect for mixing and matching. They can be dressed up or down with the right jewelry additions.
Not a one of us woman has the perfect figure. We all have flaws. Accept your flaws and work with them
Know your body and what looks good. You are logically attracted to clothes, styles and colors that flatter your figure. Experiment a bit, and try something a bit off your normal habits
Tailored outfits are flattering to most all figures
Buy styles that flatter your figure and don't forget that finishing touch with your jewelry
To make a short neck look longer wear a sccop neck or open collar shirt, complete the look with a long necklace
Large breasted women and women with wide hips can optain balance by using shoulder pads
Make sure your panty hose fits properly
Don't bare all - leave something for the imagination. Entice with your a glittery necklace or choker, and don't forget the earrings
Leather stretches so if your buying a leather skirt or pants make sure they are snug when you purchase them. There are also some fabulous faux leather products on the market that can give you great wear for a season or two without having to worry if they'll still fit next year
Dress up your look with glittery jewelry, accent a line with a necklace. Don't forget your earrings and bracelets. They add the finishing touch to your look. You can completely change your look just by changing your jewelry. Dress it up or down!
If you find an outfit in a magazine but its too pricey for your budget don't fret. There are terrific department stores and online sites that sell very similar for much less. Your jewelry is the same. That fabulous designer parure that costs way more than you can afford - your certain to find a similar in an online store for much less. Clip the picture and keep it with you so you can match
Set your budget and stick to it. Purchase plenty of mix and match pieces to get the most for your money. And don't forget to complete your look with jewelry. Mix and match your jewelry pieces also.
Fashion style is important. You clothes make your fashion statement, and how you're perceived. Stand straight and carry yourself with grace. You will radiate self confidence.
Here are some fashion tips and advice to look and feel good. Don't forget your jewelry accessories are like the icing on the cake. They are the finishing touch. Dress to Impress and Make Your Fashion Statement!
Fashion Tips
Make sure your wardrobe has plenty of neutrals on hand - they are perfect for mixing and matching. They can be dressed up or down with the right jewelry additions.
Not a one of us woman has the perfect figure. We all have flaws. Accept your flaws and work with them
Know your body and what looks good. You are logically attracted to clothes, styles and colors that flatter your figure. Experiment a bit, and try something a bit off your normal habits
Tailored outfits are flattering to most all figures
Buy styles that flatter your figure and don't forget that finishing touch with your jewelry
To make a short neck look longer wear a sccop neck or open collar shirt, complete the look with a long necklace
Large breasted women and women with wide hips can optain balance by using shoulder pads
Make sure your panty hose fits properly
Don't bare all - leave something for the imagination. Entice with your a glittery necklace or choker, and don't forget the earrings
Leather stretches so if your buying a leather skirt or pants make sure they are snug when you purchase them. There are also some fabulous faux leather products on the market that can give you great wear for a season or two without having to worry if they'll still fit next year
Dress up your look with glittery jewelry, accent a line with a necklace. Don't forget your earrings and bracelets. They add the finishing touch to your look. You can completely change your look just by changing your jewelry. Dress it up or down!
If you find an outfit in a magazine but its too pricey for your budget don't fret. There are terrific department stores and online sites that sell very similar for much less. Your jewelry is the same. That fabulous designer parure that costs way more than you can afford - your certain to find a similar in an online store for much less. Clip the picture and keep it with you so you can match
Set your budget and stick to it. Purchase plenty of mix and match pieces to get the most for your money. And don't forget to complete your look with jewelry. Mix and match your jewelry pieces also.
Fashion With A Conscience
Annabelle Randles
While wristbands have become a fashionable way to show our geopolitics we often forget that we can make an even bigger impact on poverty and the environment through the clothes we choose. Wearing eco fashion is one way we all can make a real difference. Organic cotton is one of the best examples of how each one of us can influence third world economies by encouraging fairer trade while helping preserve the environment.
A few weeks ago G8 leaders failed to set a date to end their agricultural export subsidies. While Western consumers enjoy low price clothing, they often forget that it hardly reflects the true cost of fashion. Conventional cotton is highly subsidised in countries such as the US and China. According to Oxfam, the US pays three times more in subsidies to its 25,000 cotton farmers than its budget for aid to Africa's 500 million people. These subsidies make it impossible for third world countries to compete on international markets resulting in lower export earnings and even costing some countries more than they receive in debt relief.
Beyond economics, conventional cotton production has also many negative environmental impacts. While it is often described as the "Natural Fibre", cotton requires more pesticides and insecticides than any other crops. According to PAN UK (Pesticide Action Network) cotton accounts for 10% of all pesticides and 22.5% of insecticides applied in agriculture. It takes 1/3 of a pound of pesticides to produce a single tee shirt. The same pesticides and insecticides that are linked to cancer are being sprayed onto field affecting farmers, health as well as the wildlife and the environment.
The “Make Poverty History” campaign has had tremendous success in raising the awareness of many issues facing the developing world. Yet fashion produced in environmentally friendly and under fair-trade conditions still represents only a tiny fraction of the global textile market. However, with exciting new labels and designers, eco-fashion has developed a stylish and contemporary look in keeping with our modern lifestyles.
While wristbands have become a fashionable way to show our geopolitics we often forget that we can make an even bigger impact on poverty and the environment through the clothes we choose. Wearing eco fashion is one way we all can make a real difference. Organic cotton is one of the best examples of how each one of us can influence third world economies by encouraging fairer trade while helping preserve the environment.
A few weeks ago G8 leaders failed to set a date to end their agricultural export subsidies. While Western consumers enjoy low price clothing, they often forget that it hardly reflects the true cost of fashion. Conventional cotton is highly subsidised in countries such as the US and China. According to Oxfam, the US pays three times more in subsidies to its 25,000 cotton farmers than its budget for aid to Africa's 500 million people. These subsidies make it impossible for third world countries to compete on international markets resulting in lower export earnings and even costing some countries more than they receive in debt relief.
Beyond economics, conventional cotton production has also many negative environmental impacts. While it is often described as the "Natural Fibre", cotton requires more pesticides and insecticides than any other crops. According to PAN UK (Pesticide Action Network) cotton accounts for 10% of all pesticides and 22.5% of insecticides applied in agriculture. It takes 1/3 of a pound of pesticides to produce a single tee shirt. The same pesticides and insecticides that are linked to cancer are being sprayed onto field affecting farmers, health as well as the wildlife and the environment.
The “Make Poverty History” campaign has had tremendous success in raising the awareness of many issues facing the developing world. Yet fashion produced in environmentally friendly and under fair-trade conditions still represents only a tiny fraction of the global textile market. However, with exciting new labels and designers, eco-fashion has developed a stylish and contemporary look in keeping with our modern lifestyles.
10 Online Shoe Shopping Tips
Eve Carmichael
Tip #1 - Know Your Feet.
The best way to buy shoes that will fit your feet properly is to take their shape into consideration. Do you feet spill out of the sides of most shoe styles? Then try wide-width shoes.
Do you have a problem with gapping on the sides of your shoes? Perhaps a narrow-width shoes will help.
Are your toes short and stubby? Then pointy shoes might not be right for you. Considering the shape of your feet will help you buy great fitting shoes almost every time.
Tip #2 - Take a Hint From the Shoes You Already Own.
Take your favorite pair of shoes and study them. Ask yourself why they fit your foot so well. Is it because the toe is square instead of pointy? Is the material soft and has molded to the shape of your foot?
Once you know why your best fitting pair of shoes fit so well, find shoes that have a similar design or are made from similar materials, and you shouldn't have too many problems ordering great fitting shoes online.
Tip #3 - Find a Designer Whose Shoes Work For Your.
Most shoe manufacturers and designers tend to cut their shoes consistently. Compile a list of shoe manufactures that make shoes that fit your feet well, and search their online stock for that next great pair of pumps.
Etienne Aigner is one of the shoe manufacturers on my "list", and whenever I search online for a new pair of shoes, I see what they offer first. Nine times out of ten, their shoes fit my feet like a glove (or perhaps I should say they fit like a sock).
Tip #4 - Are Cheap Shoes Really a Bargain?
Everyone loves a bargain, but are you really saving money by buying those $39.95 pleather pumps that hurt your feet and looked trashed after only wearing them a few times. Instead of buying cheap shoes for little money, its better to buy quality shoes on sale. With proper care, quality shoes will feel and look good for years.
Tip #5 - Try On In a Store then Buy Online.
I love to scout out a great pair of shoes at the local mall and them buy them online for less. No tax, and free shipping will make almost any pair of shoes cheaper if you buy it online.
Tip #6 - Shop at Reputable Online Shoe Stores.
Make sure to buy from reputable online shoe merchants that have clearly marked return policies and secure web sites.
Tip #7 - Read Online Shoe Reviews.
Many web sites feature product reviews written by customers. Shoe Reviews will give you an idea of the fit and quality of the shoes reviewed.
Tip #8 - Keep Hosiery & Socks In Mind.
When you're buying a new pair of shoes, keep the kind of hosiery or socks you intend to wear with your new shoes in mind. For example, if you are buying a pair of boots to wear in bad weather, you might want to wear a warm, thick pair of socks with them. So buy the boots a size larger to accommodate the socks.
Tip #9 - Can You Walk in Those Heels?
If you've never worn a pair of 4 inch stiletto heeled pumps before, its best to try a pair on at a brick and mortar store before you buy them on line.
Tip #10 - Don't Spend More Then You Can Afford.
Just because those $325 dollar Bruno Magli Nazli Pumps are just a click and a credit card away, don't spend more than you can afford. Believe me, I know how addictive online shoe shopping can be!
Follow these ten easy online shoe shopping tips, and you'll be shoe shopping online like a pro. Best of all, you'll rarely, if ever, have to return a pair of shoes you bought online again.
Tip #1 - Know Your Feet.
The best way to buy shoes that will fit your feet properly is to take their shape into consideration. Do you feet spill out of the sides of most shoe styles? Then try wide-width shoes.
Do you have a problem with gapping on the sides of your shoes? Perhaps a narrow-width shoes will help.
Are your toes short and stubby? Then pointy shoes might not be right for you. Considering the shape of your feet will help you buy great fitting shoes almost every time.
Tip #2 - Take a Hint From the Shoes You Already Own.
Take your favorite pair of shoes and study them. Ask yourself why they fit your foot so well. Is it because the toe is square instead of pointy? Is the material soft and has molded to the shape of your foot?
Once you know why your best fitting pair of shoes fit so well, find shoes that have a similar design or are made from similar materials, and you shouldn't have too many problems ordering great fitting shoes online.
Tip #3 - Find a Designer Whose Shoes Work For Your.
Most shoe manufacturers and designers tend to cut their shoes consistently. Compile a list of shoe manufactures that make shoes that fit your feet well, and search their online stock for that next great pair of pumps.
Etienne Aigner is one of the shoe manufacturers on my "list", and whenever I search online for a new pair of shoes, I see what they offer first. Nine times out of ten, their shoes fit my feet like a glove (or perhaps I should say they fit like a sock).
Tip #4 - Are Cheap Shoes Really a Bargain?
Everyone loves a bargain, but are you really saving money by buying those $39.95 pleather pumps that hurt your feet and looked trashed after only wearing them a few times. Instead of buying cheap shoes for little money, its better to buy quality shoes on sale. With proper care, quality shoes will feel and look good for years.
Tip #5 - Try On In a Store then Buy Online.
I love to scout out a great pair of shoes at the local mall and them buy them online for less. No tax, and free shipping will make almost any pair of shoes cheaper if you buy it online.
Tip #6 - Shop at Reputable Online Shoe Stores.
Make sure to buy from reputable online shoe merchants that have clearly marked return policies and secure web sites.
Tip #7 - Read Online Shoe Reviews.
Many web sites feature product reviews written by customers. Shoe Reviews will give you an idea of the fit and quality of the shoes reviewed.
Tip #8 - Keep Hosiery & Socks In Mind.
When you're buying a new pair of shoes, keep the kind of hosiery or socks you intend to wear with your new shoes in mind. For example, if you are buying a pair of boots to wear in bad weather, you might want to wear a warm, thick pair of socks with them. So buy the boots a size larger to accommodate the socks.
Tip #9 - Can You Walk in Those Heels?
If you've never worn a pair of 4 inch stiletto heeled pumps before, its best to try a pair on at a brick and mortar store before you buy them on line.
Tip #10 - Don't Spend More Then You Can Afford.
Just because those $325 dollar Bruno Magli Nazli Pumps are just a click and a credit card away, don't spend more than you can afford. Believe me, I know how addictive online shoe shopping can be!
Follow these ten easy online shoe shopping tips, and you'll be shoe shopping online like a pro. Best of all, you'll rarely, if ever, have to return a pair of shoes you bought online again.
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