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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Getting ready for the hot weather? Let us take a look at what we can expect in Swimwear trends for 2008/2009.

First lets talk colour and prints. Fuchsia is huge this season as well as jewel tones including emerald, purple and sapphire blue. Geometrics, African prints and a touch of metallic bling are all making an appearance on the international catwalks. Of course we can not forget that nothing epitomises poolside glamour like a classic black swimsuit. As Kerry McCallum, editor of Shop Till You Drop recently remarked when asked on tips for buying a swimsuit this summer.

A black halter-neck on-piece. I am loving the revival of the on-piece I think its chic and glamorous.

While the return of the classic one-piece is evident, variations on this style including cut-outs, monokinis and stylish maillots will be gracing poolside and shorelines in a modern chic fashion. Also taking a front seat will be lower leg lines embracing a retro look in an updated way.

Who are the brands to watch out for? Swimwear has previously been dominated by the surf giants of the fashion world and although surf brands will always have their place, the recent acquisition of Tigerlily by surfwear giant Billabong proves that swimwear fashion is being taken more seriously.

Busy Summer is making all the right waves in Australia and seems to be hitting a chord worldwide. With the backing of Ugg boots Australia fashion agent, and a favourite with swimwear models this brand is certainly one to watch.

Losing grounds are brands such as Wicked Weasel, Malibu Strings and other micro bikini specialists. Popular in the earlier part of this decade, swimwear that leaves little to the imagination is not capturing the imagination of modern fashionistas.

So now your equipped with everything you need to know about swimwear trends for the 2008/2009 season, now all you have to do is head down to your local gym and perfect that bikini body.

For more information on swimwear trends for 2008/2009 try visiting Busywear.Com

By: Summer Fisher

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Advertising helps a company sell a product or service to the consumer. This is the reason that many of these are seen on television, newspaper or on billboards while driving or walking to the desired destination.

One of the items that women need always are nylon stockings. This is to make the legs look good but not too revealing when inside the office or partying out with friends.

The models used for selling the hosiery don’t have to be tall unlike those that go ramp modeling. This is because the important thing is the lower part of the body namely the legs which will show how nice the nylon stockings are enticing women to buy this over another brand.

The model will just slip on the pair of nylon stockings and then have a few shots in the front, back or side. When the pictures come out, the manufacturer will then choose which one to be used for the packaging on the pack.

One brand that does this from Italy is Malizia. When the nylon stocking has been packed, the picture of the model is printed on the pack then sent off to stores. Victoria’s Secret also does the same thing, which just shows that the way to sell nylon stockings in the United States is the same like in other countries.

The nice thing about this kind of modeling is that the person doesn’t have to take classes to get a few shots. The model will just follow the instructions of the photographer and just strike a pose to get it right.

The model however will have to put on nylon stockings of the same thing in different colors. It may be quite hard to get the same thing in that position but with a little practice and help, this can happen.

The photo session may take quite awhile to finish since other variations have to be worn but if the company has a huge budget, other models will also do some that will surely take the load off the person.

Being a model for nylon stockings and other lingerie products is quite rewarding. Those who have experience can ask for a hundred dollars or more per hour and a good relationship with the photographer means another photo shoot in the future.

Who knows, the model who decides to do nylon stockings may eventually get to wear other items that will be seen by millions not only on the packaging but in product catalogs as well.

By: Low Jeremy

About the Author:

Whether you are searching for a career in fashion
modeling or glamour modeling, it is very important for you to realize that there is more to becoming a model than just standing there looking beautiful.

One very important factor in becoming a good model is posing, and in order for you to learn the different poses needed for the type of modeling career you are seeking it will take practice, practice, practice.

Make Your Posing Look Natural

When preparing for your photo shoot, there are
numerous steps you can take to ensure you are
comfortable while posing and your photos will look more natural.

Get Posing Ideas

Before you head to your photo shoot, pick at least ten poses you really like from fashion or glamour
magazines, or poses you’ve learned from previous
photo shoots. Take time to practice each pose in front of a mirror until you feel comfortable and have the confidence of knowing you look great doing these
poses.

Hands and Facial Expression

Also, focus on what to do with your hands and pay
attention to facial expressions. A pose is virtually dead and unimaginative without a “look”. You should be able to close your eyes, imagine a thought, open your eyes and sell that thought. Practice this technique and your photos will come alive.

Become an Idea Factory

Unless you are shooting for an advertising agency or some other type of special interest session many
photographers recommend that you bring some of your own posing ideas to the shoot. In addition to your
ideas, the photographer may have his or her own idea of how the session should go.

Rapport with Your Photographer

Always work with a photographer you feel you can trust. This will make communication between the two of you easier and give you the confidence to express your own ideas.

Always listen to what the photographer tells you. If you are really uncomfortable with the pose, let your
photographer know how you feel, in a nice way.
Remember, he is looking through the camera lens and might see something you don’t.

If the photographer says she wants something different in the pose, try looking away from the camera or giving a unique facial expression. This is where your practice in front of the mirror really pays.

Posture

When posing you should always keep good posture unless the photographer instructs you to do otherwise.
Hold your stomach in to give your abdomen a more toned appearance. If you have gained a few pounds stick out your chin a little to avoid the appearance of a double chin in your photos.

Keep your fingers slightly apart and pointed away from the lens. Let your hands fall naturally into position
whenever possible. Remember, you want to be
yourself – on purpose.

Now that you have learned what to do, consider these things you should try to avoid while posing.

Things to Avoid when Posing for a Photographer

Misplaced Body Language

Body language and expressions come naturally but the language you are projecting might not be what your photographer wants in a particular pose. You need to conciously focus on ways to prevent these habits while posing.

Don’t hold your breath during a pose. Stay relaxed and your photos will look as if you just happened to be
sitting this way when the photographer walked up.

In most pose situations you want your arms, legs,
wrists, etc. slightly bent unless you are directed to do otherwise Most people don’t stand or sit with their
arms and legs completely stiff. A good point to
remember is, if it will bend, bend it.

Mona Lisa Smile?

Another posing tip to remember is that you don’t
always have to smile. You should have a good variety of smiling and serious looks. But, sometimes you will want to give a large, open-mouthed laugh. If you are susposed to be happy, look the part!

Your Eyes are the Windows to Your Soul

Don’t always look straight into the camera. When you cut your eyes to the left or right, you create an air of mystery. When you look up and away, you are
annoyed. Tilt your chin slightly down and look straight ahead for a sexy look.

About Blinking

Beware of the Blink! If you have to blink, try to blink between exposures. This is not always easy,
especially if you are working in a photography studio.
Some models get into a habit of anticipating the
strobes and start to close their eyes when the picture is about to be snapped.

Get into the habit of not paying attention to the flash and concentrate wholy on the pose, your body
language, hand position, etc. and your images will
come out as you expect.

Be Bold!!

Never be afraid to try out some of your own poses in front of your photographer. Most photographers are glad to hear suggestions from you.

How do You See Yourself?

When you look at your final images don’t be critical of yourself. Find positive ways to improve your posing.
Discover your strengths and weaknesses and shoot for the stars.

I am certain that Tyra Banks still works on her
appearance and her posing artistry even though she
has achieved a degree of stardom. Shouldn’t you?

By: Bob Pardue

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