The downturn in the economic system has given us all a fashion rethink. It’s been well remarked that the downturn in the economy has heavily impacted the fashion industry. Although downturns in the economy are nothing new, this recent one we’re in is going to have a long-term impression on how we see fashion. We are living in a very pragmatic age these days. Before these pragmatic times, we revelled in the frivolity of fashion – nothing was really too outrageous or too costly – you only worried about being charged with being too boring. Not so today though : the catwalks and fashion labels are getting a bad press. Even looking at the the mid-range brands, suddenly they’re criticised for sweatshop factories. Is it that everybody suddenly become so very hard to please now?
First of all, fashion isn’t dead. In fact, looking on the web there is tough rivalry between online store traders – for instance looking for Alice by temperley – a signal there is still a great need for fashion. It’s the old-school view that is dying its death – being told what’s now fashionable by the big labels. Fashion has always followed the public rather than the other way around, and nowadays many matters are stopping us buying from big fashion brands. First Off, young people are now much more mindful of globalization, and showing off your clothing labels makes you look egotistical and inconsiderate in certain circles. Secondly, it’s the economy, stupid! Fashion has forever been a luxury, not an essential. In an economic downturn, non-essential items are the first to be forgotten on the shop shelves. Lastly, individuals express themselves much more individually nowadays – groups of friends are more tightly knit, we no longer view ourselves as being part of large groups, and fashion needs that sort of herd-like thinking to sell in numbers.
How does the future look for the fashion industry? Like ever, they must change to exist – create a larger range of fashion lines to cater to more corners of the marketplace. If you’re a boutique shop offering unique fashion lines at a decent price, the future looks bright for you in spite of the grim economic times we are experiencing. These days, individuals are combining their styles, buying from marketplaces and more personal, inexpensive fashion stores.