Fashion has always been about the cutting edge. What’s new? What’s cool? But fashion has also a very elitist quality to it. If you don’t live in a major fashion mecca, it can be hard to find the latest and greatest.
At least, that’s how it used to be. The Internet has brought the world together in all sorts of ways, and that includes the world of fashion. Now you can live anywhere and still have access to the fashion industry. This access is not only great for customers, it’s great for the fashion industry, too.
Here are three ways e-commerce has changed the business of fashion.
1. Accessibility
If you live in a small town, you probably don’t have a lot of shopping options. Even medium-sized towns or large cities can have limited offerings. Your favorite designer may simply not be available where you live.
On top of that, fashion can be a very exclusive world. If you don’t work in the industry, your source of info used to be limited primarily to magazines. By the time a trend cycled through your town, it could be over everywhere else. Today, however, the Internet brings information to everyone, with popular fashion blogs able to turn anyone into a potential industry insider.
2. Ease
For many people, going out and shopping for clothes is a real hassle. The lighting in the dressing room can be pretty unflattering. The retail workers can be rude or indifferent. The crowds can be annoying and slow.
Lots of folks prefer to shop for clothes at home. Beyond the ease of selecting online, another benefit of e-commerce is that your purchases are delivered right to your home. It’s certainly pleasant and easy to try on clothes in your own bedroom. You can also get the opinions of your family and friends, and you can see how your new outfits fit into your existing wardrobe.
Most online clothing retailers have pretty liberal return policies, but you obviously want to check out the specifics before you place any order.
3. Specialization
Certain important occasions call for unique clothing. Weddings and proms are just a few examples. Unfortunately, your local brick-and-mortar options for finding specialty clothing can be limited. The Internet, however, is all about fashion without limits.
Online shopping gives you amazing possibilities for buying tuxedos, bridesmaid’s dresses, formal gowns and other specialty items. Unlike retail stores, which stock up on mid-range sizes at the expense of Inventory of smaller and larger garments, online retailers are more likely to offer the fit you need.
With online shopping, it’s easy to look your best. In this case, what’s good for the customers is also good for the industry as a whole, and good business is always in fashion.
Originally posted on February 11, 2014 @ 11:42 pm