Successful retailers need to forecast the fashions that their consumers will be seeking. Even top designers routinely perform surveys prior to designing their seasonal lines and the large retailers consult forecasting specialists prior to purchasing stock for their stores. So how does the independent boutique retailer gain access to valuable industry information and trend predictors?

Above all observing what’s going on in the weekly celebrity glossy’s and monthly fashion magazines, will give you an upfront view of the new names in design, what consumers will be shopping for and where the trends are headed.

Consumer spending is powerfully influenced by the media but tempered by the economy so to find out what consumers are actually buying it is advisable to make frequent visits to busy similar retailers and local shopping malls. Take time wherever possible to chat with sales assistants. They are in the frontline and this gives them a unique perspective of consumer’s needs and what the customer is seeking. Other extremely rich sources of information will be found online in the magazine fashion forums, Elle, Vogue, InStyle etc have very active fashion consumer forums. These are useful indicators for finding out what is being purchased and the buzz on upcoming styles.

In the past, US retailers looked to European retailers for market trends. Today, more US retailers are finding inspiration closer to home. There is a wealth of undiscovered local designers in our own back yard who are acquiring a dedicated following. With little detective work you can find these rising stars and establish a relationship that will be mutually beneficial.

Other important ways to anticipate the trends is to subscribe to industry trade publications like Accessories magazine, Apparel News and WWD. These publications are essential especially if you are a boutique in a small town and do not plan to attend industry trade shows. These magazines also now have websites which give up-to-date trend reports.

Today, between each marked fashion trend, we experience new adaptations on the fashion standards and especially routine-retro-revivals. Currently this is taking the form of spandex, leggings, 80’s fashion and the neo-preppie look. Wayfarer sunglasses as popularized by movies such as “The Blues Brothers” and “Risky Business” have returned (but in larger sizes and bolder colors) and even some of biggest names of the 80’s and 90’s fashion modeling scene are enjoying a career revival with major fashion and cosmetic companies featuring them in ad campaigns.

The best way to anticipate new fashion trends is to seek relevant visual input wherever you can – in vintage stores, flea markets and in the street. There are also an abundance of fashion blogs and online showcases discussing what the locals in major cities are wearing, thse are an invaluable resources. Chief amongst these are The Satorialist, Streetfashion.net, London Street Fashion (ftp2.dns-systems.net) and styleandthecity.com.

Whether you are an established retailer or a current boutique owner, ongoing research and trend watching is a vital function of your business if you are to evolve and succeed. Spotting trends or even setting trends will be achieved by keenly observing the market, paying attention to street trends and knowing your industry. As ever ‘knowledge is power’ in this case it is the power you can leverage into strong sales!

By: Timothy Baldwin

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While surfing through TV channels, you probably have come across a model in an ad or a fashion channel with a svelte and appealing figure, and a great deal of poise. And, for the umpteenth time you may have wished that you could be one. It’s not just the attention that makes an individual want to be a model, but also the money involved.

Modeling is not confined to traveling to exotic locations, being pampered, attending celebrity parties and earning thousand dollars a day. Although most people like to be in the limelight, rub shoulders with the fashion circuit’s who’s who, and indulge in the best cuisines of the world, modeling is much more than that.

Requirements

If you plan to take up modeling as a career, you need to acquire demanding physical attributes. You need to first rate yourself. Gauge your weaknesses and your strengths. Not everyone is perfect, but you can work on your flaws and improve on your plus points. For example, your height should be at least 5′8″ or more than that, and your body weight should be in proportion to it.

Fashion models are notorious for their unusual diets and exercise regimes that they need to undergo to maintain the exacting body proportions required by the profession. The skin should be healthy and without any, or very little, blemishes. Your hair should be in good shape without any kind damage or dehydration in evidence. Even your teeth should be straight and white, and not crooked or flawed in any manner. A million dollar smile would do half your job.

Models lead a fun filled and exciting life. They have lavish lifestyles, and hop from one lovely locale to another. However, aside from all the fun, modeling demands dedication, commitment and genuine interest. The work timings can be erratic, and models are required to balance their work schedules, as well as their personal health. Models especially require ample sleep, good and nutritious food, and exercise to keep fit. Their profession demands that they maintain their health and complexion, and adhere to a good regime of personal grooming.

Modeling

Once you enter the modeling arena, the next step is to get noticed by a modeling agency. Don’t forget that the agency needs you just as much as you need them. They are always on the look out for fresh faces, and if you are at the right place at the right time, you can land yourself a lucrative modeling assignment. Don’t expect assignments to just walk up to you. You need to make an effort to search for them, and give people a push. You will have to send out your portfolios to modeling agencies that recruit models.

It is important to make your portfolio simple yet effective, however you don’t have to spend a lot of money to create an expensive portfolio. Usually, agencies have open castings where newcomers have a chance of being selected. Experience in the related field, whether in print, ramp or television ads, is an added advantage.

Movie and film extras agencies also hire models for their movies. You can also work as a live model at a local departmental store, or even make a public appearance at a local event. This adds up to your experience and helps you to familiarize yourself with the requirements of the profession.

Entering The Fashion Circle

After being hired by one of the agencies, you may have to shift base to another city, or always be on the move. This would also mean living away from your family or traveling a lot. Since initially it may take a while to get a major break in the profession, you need to be patient and determined, until you succeed. Attend all casting calls and shoots. Although established models are known to keep people waiting, but you being a rookie cannot afford such antics. With dedication and perseverance, you are sure to succeed.

By: Tony Jacowski

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