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.
Ultimately, fashion marketing is a fun profession–changing and reinventing itself just as often as the clothes it promotes. It integrates the artistic nature of fashion with the creative aspects of business–making for a highly rewarding career to the ambitious and innovative.
By: Amie Pronowski
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 5th, 2010. 
One of the best ways to use vintage seventies fashion today, is to blend it with more modern looks. The goal is to have a modern-retro fashion look that does not turn your ensemble into something that looks like a costume from the Charlie’s Angels set. Think of the peasant dresses, clunky heels, and high waisted bell bottom jeans as pieces of a puzzle for you to work with as you build your own particular retro fashion look.
Balancing your outfit can be as simple as throwing on some modern jewelry and accessories, or carrying a hot new designer purse. The early 1970s were a carryover from the sloppy fashion of the late sixties. The decade ended however, with a flashy disco look that led into and started off, the sometimes bizarre 1980s.
There are a lot of people who like to test the boundaries of retro fashion, and that is fine. If you are into retro looks however, just be careful that you do not end up looking like you are wearing a seventies costume, unless that is the look you are trying to achieve. You do not want to copy the fashions of the seventies. You want to modify them and make them work for you in new and interesting ways.
In general, the 1970s was a time of relaxed and casual fashion. Even many of the work clothes from late in the decade would probably be considered too casual for an office environment today. If you’re into buying and wearing retro seven these fashions however, these could play a part in some very interesting clothing combinations. Use your imagination and have some fun as you explore what you can do with vintage and retro fashion.
By: Michelle McKee
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 5th, 2010.
Winter can be a busy time – with Christmas looming, New Year’s Eve to celebrate and Valentines Day just around the corner you’re going to need to be prepared. So what’s the right winter fashion etiquette for the occasion?
Get together in the near future?
A re-union? Try something in a festive jewel tone and be sure to finish your look with some fabulous shoes and hand bag and don’t forget the jewelry. Add earrings and a necklace to finish your look.
A baptism – you’re the godmother? Try a soft flowing skirt and a cap sleeve blouse. Or how about a nice light shift topped with a print jacket. You’ll look stylish but you won’t be over done. Pay attention to the shoes on your feet – classy but comfort is important because you’ll be standing for a while. Add some light jewelry, a pair of baguette studs and a chain and you’ll be ready.
A date for high tea? Although the formality of white gloves is gone it is still important to dress nicely. Do not wear jeans or a sloppy shirt. If the high tea is an informal meeting then pants with a nice light jacket is spring colors is appropriate. If high tea is to honor someone then step it up a notch with a nice light skirt and top, or a nice light dress with jacket. Some funky jewelry for the casual get together or more elegant jewelry for the more formal get together.
Cocktails? There are plenty of options for cocktails. A light weight dress in spring colors with short sleeves, dress it up a little with three quarter sleeves. Go for a fun print, v necklines are great, and don’t forget the finishing touches with jewelry. Try some dangle or chandelier earrings. Add a tennis bracelet or bead necklace, some fun but **** shoes and your set.
Wedding? Make certain you’re not resembling the bride or taking away from her day by outdoing her. Contrary to popular belief black is an acceptable color for a wedding. Decide what you’re wearing to the wedding based on the type of wedding – is it formal choose a formal dress. Semi casual – skirt and blazer. Beach wedding – something soft and flowing. Add appropriate jewelry, shoes, and handbag.
Christmas Something comfy but semi-formal is always great. Depending on the type of festivities and where you’ll be choose appropriate footwear. Slip on flats are nice around the house or you can choose a sassy pair of heels. Don’t forget to make your handbag say “Merry Christmas.”
New Years Eve This season is filled with soft flowing feminine looks. So here’s a perfect time to be a girl. Try an ankle length tiered dress with silky layers in a romantic print. Or perhaps a long flowing skirt accented with a fitted top and cashmere sweater. Add a pair of heels and a small matching bag. Don’t forget to finish your look with your jewelry – soft colored stone dangle earrings and a teardrop pendant would be perfect!
Evening Out? Pick your favorite pants, skirt, or dress, add a bolero or cardigan over a tank or sleeveless blouse you’ll be ready for your evening out. Make your bolero or cardigan your focal point. Add some understated jewelry and your ready to go.
Whether it’s a day at the beach, a board room meeting, a cocktail party, or a formal event. Dress to impress, complete your look with jewelry and accessories such as shoes, hand bag, or belt. Make your fashion statement!
By: Sher Matsen
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 5th, 2010.
Online fashion design schools meet the growing need of the people who do not have the time and resources to go for full time course, but still want to learn the nuances of fashion design. These schools provide all the information and knowledge to the students through their online course material. This lets the students familiarize themselves with all the skills and technicalities of fashion design from the convenience of their homes.
Though conducted from a distance, the online fashion design schools keep the students abreast of the latest trends in the realm of fashion design. So the knowledge imparted is practical.
The advantage of such schools is that no campus attendance is required. Hence, there are no deadlines or commuting hassles. The students can gain the knowledge at their own pace and according to their own grasping ability.
The examinations conducted are of the open book type and guarantee the student a diploma or degree that is nationally accredited. The online fashion design schools do not have specific enrollment dates. So the students can take up the course at their own convenience. They have the flexibility of completing the course according to their own schedule. Moreover, the content of the course is almost the same as what is offered by the regular schools and colleges. The tuition fees are without any interest rates, which renders the whole course affordable. This flexibility and affordability assured by the online fashion design schools makes it the one of the favorite options for national and international students.
The online fashion design schools offer different programs such as high school diplomas, career diplomas, associate and master?s degree. The degree or diploma offered can be earned anywhere and is recognized by the concerned industry. Thus, after completing the course, the students can jump-start their career in fashion design.
The enrollment for the course can be done online, by filling out the online application forms. The online catalog provides all the requisite information to the candidates.
By: Jennifer Bailey
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 5th, 2010.
Are you looking for muslim fashion which is trendy yet modest? With fashion do you know where to draw the line? What are the do’s and don’ts for muslim clothing? This article will discuss some ways on how to dress modestly.
First of all, always remind yourself of the Islamic dress code. Your clothes should be long, loose fitted and not transparent. Muslim women should also cover their heads with a head scarf (hijab).
If you prefer to wear traditional muslim clothing then you can chose to wear long abayas (long kaftan like dresses), which originate from the arab countries. There are so many designs to choose from. From the classic black and trendy urban styles to more western styles. You can even get designer ones; or you might like to wear the traditional shalwar kameez (loose tunic and trouser), which originates from India/Pakistan. You are spoilt for choice. So much to choose from!
One thing to remember is to keep the glitter and glitz to a minimum for everyday wear. Go for a casual and simple look for everyday wear, and leave the glitter and glitz for special occasions or evening wear.
If you live in the west and want to wear modest western muslim fashion clothes, there is still a lot to choose from. You could go for long full length dresses or long full length skirts with lose and full sleeved tops or long sleeved blouses. You could also wear shorter length dresses with loose trouser or jeans – This is a trend that has been very popular recently amongst the western fashion world. You could also wear long sleeved, knee length, tunic style tops with loose trouser or jeans. Again you are spoilt with choice. The key is to be creative and mix and match clothing items to give you a modest look.
Traditional and western designs can be brought from many shops; or nowadays there is so much available online. Just spend some time planning your outfits and soon you will be making your own trends in muslim fashion.
By: Sham Said
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Read more on Muslim Fashion – 3 Modest Ways to Wear Muslim Fashion…
Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 4th, 2010.
Have you ever wondered why an outfit didn’t look just right? Do you have parts that you want to enhance or hide? These simple tips can make your shopping experience more successful and ensure you have a great look every time you step out of your house.
I carry my weight in my hips/thighs. Help!
Avoid tops that cut across the **** area Avoid low rise and tapered pants Wear scoop or V-neck tops to draw the eye up Wear wide leg pants to create balance Wear a-line skirts
I have really long legs. How do I maintain proportion?
Wear cropped pants (not too long or you’ll look like you bought pants that are too short) Wear longer tops or jackets to create a longer torso Wear longer skirts
How do I make my legs look longer?
Avoid cropped pants (wear pants long – below ankle) Avoid long tops and wide-bottom pants Wear empire waist dresses or higher waist pants Wear skirts to the knee (avoid overly long skirts) Wear mono-chromatic color scheme
What style pants should I wear?
Minimize hips & thighs with wide leg pants Accentuate great hips & thighs with low-rise and straight legs Balance out wide shoulders with boot cut Eliminate top heaviness with wider bottom pants
How do shoes change my appearance?
To lengthen legs, wear knee length boots To shorten legs, wear mid-calf boots or t-strap shoes Avoid sling backs if you have thick ankles Wear heels not flats if you want to create length or detract from thicker ankles
I carry my weight in the middle. Help!
Avoid ribbing at waist Avoid pleats on pants Wear wrap tops with draping fabric Wear tops that are fitted under the bust & flare Wear a-line skirts
I don’t have a defined waist. How do I create one?
Avoid square/boxy shaped tops or jackets Wear fitted jackets/tops Wear tailored shirts that are cut in at the waist
My upper arms are not so great. How do I “hide” them?
Avoid caps sleeves Avoid sleeveless tops and dresses Wear 3/4 length sleeves Wear short sleeves that are flared at the bottom
I have a large bust. How do I minimize it?
Avoid gathering at the bust Avoid high necks or shrug/bolero jackets Wear wrap tops Wear scoop or v-necks Wear the “right” bra
I have a small bust. How do I enhance it?
Avoid tops that cling Wear horizontal stripes Wear tops with gathering around bust Wear pockets or lapels Wear the “right” bra
By: Indra Books
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 4th, 2010.
Although catwalks have already finished showing their Autumn Winter 09 collections it normally takes at least six months to a year for their collections to be redesigned to be commercially viable. After all who can afford thousands of pounds for the latest designer dresses.
Last years catwalk collections are just starting to filter into the high street now, although somewhat toned down from the extravagant (and very expensive) designs!
So here is a summary of the key fashion trends for this spring…
English Eccentric
Dresses and tops are updated with light colourful florals and ditzy prints.
Club Med
Last years nautical theme is revisited and stripes are still big news, although this time is the thinner stripes that are on trend. Look for navy and black stripes over a white background.
Body Con Dress
This seasons hottest dress is definitely the body con dress. Debate surrounds its true meaning, is it body conscious or body contoured? Both equally apply as its a style for those with a curvy 10 or 12 as the material is very figure hugging.
The Playsuit
Another 80’s revival piece is the playsuit. Keep it printed and colourful for the day and choose a little black version for the evenings. Not got leg confidence? Then perhaps a jumpsuit will suit better with its full leg coverage.
Block Patterns
Straight from the catwalk is block design. Think dark lower half and bright top. This style is very handy at hiding larger hips or a big bum.
Chic Western
Last years checks get and fashion overhaul. Think detailed patterning on shirts over tight jeans.
Asymmetric Fashion
The one shoulder dress was paraded on the catwalks and its a fashion trend accessible to all. Although best suited to those with shoulders they want to show off.
The Mini Dress
Like the body con dress this is another style for those with slim figures. Dress lengths are going to be very short this summer.
The Bandeau Dress
Take an symmetric dress and remove the other shoulder and your there. Very soft and feminine, this trend is perfect for those long hot summer months.
Swimwear Trends
Essential swimwear for this season are cut out (or cut away) one piece swimsuits. The more daring you are the more cut away they should be. Asymmetric swimwear and bikinis also featured in a lot of swimwear collections.
By: Adrian Mulhall
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 4th, 2010.
No one can deny the huge impact that music has on fashion. This kind of evident influence began to surface in the early seventies and eighties, when music bands tried to differentiate themselves from others, through a stylish and trendy image. Torn or ripped jeans, denim jackets, bandanas, scarves, leggings, boots and even enormous sunglasses were just a few of the fashion trends that slowly slipped into everybody’s wardrobes.
Indie fashion too has its roots firmly placed in music. In fact, Indie music itself refers to music that is created by an artist or a band through an independent label. Back then this was seen as a very different alternative to recording, because most artists signed their respective contracts with huge names and studios. The independent labels were often started by offbeat artists themselves, and were very often relatively unknown. Therein lay the catch- the music was meant to be so good that the name backing the artists did not actually matter. Today Indie music refers to music that is a mix of pop, rock, punk and the like.
Indie fashion borrows much of that same attitude from its namesake in music. Today Indie fashion is about having the freedom to express, to be comfortable in your own style and to have an individual touch. The term is used to refer to kids who weren’t part of any culture, but who stood out. A lot of styles and other fashion trends have gone into making Indie fashion what it is today. However, the underlying rule of fashion remains the same- mixing a variety of styles until the right look is achieved. Fedoras, bandanas, scarves, sneakers, sandals and flip flops are some must have Indie fashion accessories. Other than that, hoodies embossed with cartoon characters, plastic belts, loud shirts, vintage tees, bootcut jeans and t-shirts with characters on them are also examples of Indie fashion. The pants worn include cargoes, jeans with silver button designs and Capri pants. It is not unusual to find true Indie fans, they often wear trousers with colors like orange, light blue, army green or cargoes with plenty of zippers. For girls, there are so much more options. Tops include zipped tank tops, graffiti shirts, fishnet tops, corset and mesh tops, camisoles and vests, as well as tops with lace, stripes and crinkles. Skirts usually have some kind of pattern on them for example prints, stripes, ragged edges, sequin work, zips or pleats. The fabrics used can vary from cotton to plaid. Tweed jackets became the rage and plaid designs or prints began to feature in many items of clothing as well. Accessories in the form of huge crested belts, spike collars, huge pendants, gloves, wristbands and bags also complete the Indie fashion look.
Even today, Indie fashion continues to absorb various influences from all over the world, with distinctive trends that vary from one country to another. Probably no other style of dressing, has united youngsters everywhere by giving them a distinct cool identity the way Indie fashion has.
By: Elle Jones
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 4th, 2010.
The world of fashion is one that has the eyes and ears of a vast amount of people; we watch television, read magazines, and stay tuned to see what the rich and famous are wearing from day to day – and we follow suit. Fashion can change perceptions, impact an entire retail economy, and influence a generation. It’s no wonder that more and more people are interested in joining the world of fashion design.
Fashion design entails the creation and manufacturing of clothing styles. Fashion designers work based on seasons – they design, create, and then introduce their line of clothing on the fashion runways. The clothing that is well-received suddenly makes its way to Hollywood where actors and actresses come decked out in the latest fashion to the latest movie premiers. And what happens on that carpet trickles down to the masses making its way to retail outlets all over the country in more affordable forms.
Fashion design can be a fantastic career journey but it requires a vast amount of skill, education, and hard work. Those interested in fashion design should already possess an innate ability to create beautiful design and effectively communicate them on paper. Such creative fashion enthusiasts should be sure to supplement their skill with formalized education. A fashion design school will teach the fundamentals of design, drawing to scale, textiles, fabrics, sewing, and manufacturing. An education such as this can open up many doors in fashion design.
Following a school program – or even in conjunction with a school program – those pursuing a career in fashion design should be sure to involve themselves in an internship or apprenticeship with a reputable design house. The experience gained in this capacity is unmatched and will begin building your portfolio – your most important tool in a fashion design career.
Fashion design can be a wonderful career filled with adventure, creativity, and a chance to influence clothing choices all across the nation and even around the world.
By: Michelle Bery
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 4th, 2010.
Everyone desires to look attractive. They want to stay updated with what’s in and what’s out. Fashion-conscious people constantly keep a watch on the changing fashion trends. These days, more emphasis is being paid towards how an individual presents himself. People use various means to look attractive. They like to spend money on attractive clothes and accessories.
When it comes to fashion and accessories, you would find a diverse variety at the online shops. Fashion accessories like clothing, shoes and others come in a variety of sizes and colours for kids, youngsters and adults.
When it comes to fashion, almost everyone these days like to wear the latest fashion clothes. Fashion comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours. Fashion clothes are clothes which are in fashion or trendy clothes. These clothes are mostly liked by the youth as these are the most happening clothes. Clothes like jeans sometimes become out of fashion and sometimes jackets. A fashion conscious person would never miss the fashion trends for the year to come.
A man’s personality is largely reflected through the clothes he wears. His clothes can make him distinctive and he can express his individuality. If you go through the latest men’s fashion trends, the online shopping portals offer a variety of men’s clothes. The most noticed one is men’s fashion coats. They are fantastic to wear and are available with different brands. Whether you are looking for men’s casual coats, versatile jackets, smart blazers, suits or ties, you can find them with lots of styles and colours. You can find them in varying sizes with excellent designs. The fashionable clothes are not only about style and comfort but also allowing you to stay updated with the trend.
Today, men coats is not only about clothes but also their entire style. Their hair style is also a part of their fashion. They spend hours shopping; they have become more aware of themselves and make every attempt to make an impact.
There are ample of options available for fashion conscious men with trendy designs, latest cuts and designer labels. From blazers to belts, cashmere to cufflinks, there is every item that a man could possible want.
By: Jayson Pablo
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Filed under Shopping And Product Reviews by on Sep 3rd, 2010.