Wholesale Clothing and Fashion Blog

Admission to Fashion Design School - Your Fashion Portfolio is EVERYTHING

2005-11-28T09:31:00.000-08:00

For those of you looking to enter Fashion School, here is the most important advice we can give you: Lock yourself in your design room and perfect that portfolio NOW ! Like the most prestigious colleges, the top notch design schools are very selective and the competition among candidates is extreme. You absolutely must make yourself stand out from the masses. The easiest way to do this is by creating an authentic, unique and impressive portfolio. Normally schools require drawings of the designs, however we suggest developing a more comprehensive display of your creative abilities. If you your passion lies with clothing, DO NOT be afraid to include one or two pieces outside this medium. An artistic photograph or sculpture you've fathered might be more incisive and demonstrative of your fashion mind than the sum of all your sketching. This recommendation might not work for you, however our point is that your should stretch yourself and your portfolio to ensure that it screams your worth to its viewer. Otherwise, you'll run the risk of swimming in the murk with countless applicants that played it safe and were never heard.

Brad

Fashionable Wholesale Clothing

Designer Handbags Christmas Shopping Online: Authentic Label Purse Gift Giving

2005-11-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year again to start surfing the Net for the best authentic designer handbags and purses. Christmas is a perfect time to give the extra-special women in your life a gift with a special logo, label and price tag. Be careful not to fall prey to all the new websites popping up just-in-time for the Christmas rush. Make sure to make your purchase from a reputable ecommerce site you trust which responds to emails quickly.

Women of all ages enjoy receiving a new purse any time of the year, and Christmas is as good a time as any! So, if you are wondering what to give this Christmas to the women in your life, give a new authentic designer handbag or purse. The designers are creating some of the most fabulous styles you've ever seen. This year, you can select from a variety of bright colors, patterns, fabrications, prices and sizes. There are hand-held, shoulder strap and backpack styles. The inside is important, too. Are there extra pockets for a cell phone? Is the bag lined? There are a number of handbag characteristics you'll be thinking about in your search for the right handbag gift.

Please don't buy from the websites showing you the same designer handbag in every color under the sun. Designers don't manufacture those bags. They are made by factory owners in third-world countries who produce them fast and cheap. Then, they turn-around and unload them by the truck load to street vendors and jobbers in the USA. One of the hottest counterfeit styles this year is the Celine Boogie Bag. Another hot counterfeit is the Balenciaga Motorcycle Bag. Just be careful! Ask questions, and purchase from a website who replies to your questions and emails.

Some women like a big slouchy leather bag, and others like a small rigid constructed purse to carry. So, there are many questions you should answer before making the purchase. Because of the wide selection of purses available online and the same or more available styles of the way women dress, be certain to select a designer handbag you know she'll like and keep for a very long time.

It's important to select the right purse because you want her to smile when she opens your gift. However, you may be making a very big investment financially, too. Designer handbags are not a cheap item. Handbags have become the staple in most fashionable women's closets. So, the investment you make may as well be for something she'll adore for many years to come.

The most difficult part of giving a new purse for a gift is making the purchase decision based on what you think the receiver will like, and not buying something just because you would like it for yourself. Here's some information to use whenever selecting a purse as a gift. First, visualize the woman in her everyday clothing. Is she a jeans and T-shirt person? Does she wear a suit to work everyday? Does she dress conservatively or funky? If you can, look inside her closet. What are her favorite colors? What style shoe does she wear? What style of purse does she carry now? Is it a shoulder bag, a satchel, a tote or a backpack?

Shop around, and then visualize the woman carrying the bag you want to purchase. How does she look? If you start laughing, then it's time to keep looking. But, if you can actually see her carrying that bag, then grab it because online, what you see today may be gone tomorrow! Don't pass up the perfect gift. Online merchants do not stock pile inventory. They obtain enough stock to get them through each season and move the stock as quickly as possible. So, when you find the right item, buy it quickly. Most of the time online shoppers find the item they had been eyeing is regretfully sold. It's happened to me, and it can happen to you as well. Don't let it happen this Christmas!

Once you have a good idea of the color, size, style and price-point, you can purchase the purse of her dreams! Look for something stylish and yet something basic enough with a classic flare. Don't invest too much money in a fly-by-night fad. Funky styles are better selected by the woman herself. Most women buy the funky styles based on their mood or style of the moment. So, if you want to make a lasting impression, select a classic style in a basic color. My favorite recommendations include the basic colors in shades of brown or black leather or cloth bags by Ferragamo, Prada, Tods and Chanel. You can't go wrong with these Designers. Classic Ferragamo have enough style to sail into the next millinium. Yet, they are fashioned for everyday and transition easily into evening wear. You can't go wrong with a classic Ferragamo.

The Prada handbags are phenomenal and come in every size, shape, color and fabrication. Women of all sizes, ages, and styles adore the thought of owning an authentic Prada purse. The important thing to look for in a Prada is the triangle logo positioned on the exterior of the handbag. It can be strategically placed front center, back center or either side of the handbag. Just make sure the triangle logo is there! Fashion-conscious women of all ages want to see the Prada Logo, and they want everyone else to see them carrying it, too!

As stated earlier, be careful not to fall prey to a website selling fake or counterfeit handbags. I can't mention names of websites here because it's just not proper, but believe me, they are out there, and their prices are not cheap! The sites selling fakes keep their prices right up there comparable to the authentic bags. And, many of the bags look real in the photos and may not be when you receive them at home. I'm certainly not trying to instill fear about online shopping. My intention is to educate consumers so they learn to make the right choices. I own and operate an ecommerce website. I want people to feel safe and comfortable doing any type of shopping online.

Merry Christmas and happy handbag hunting! I find the best prices online and do almost all my shopping online nowadays. Don't be afraid to buy online, just be smart. Your email can be your best friend when you shop online. Write, ask questions, and make your purchase from someone who replies with the right answers. You'll be happy you did, and so will she.

About the Author

Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She has been buying and selling Designer Handbags and purses of all price ranges online for over ten years. She's been around the handbag block, and she's heard and seen it all! Anna operates an ecommerce site at http://www.efashionhouse.com/ Guaranteed authentic or your money back Designer Handbags and Accessories

China Wholesale Clothing - LOW prices, HIGH margins, HUGE profits!

2005-11-11T09:11:00.000-08:00

Sourcing your products from the China wholesale markets means margins you can't find elsewhere, margins which will skyrocket your profits and allow you to dominate your market.

China has been described as the world's factory.

It might well be re-named China Wholesale Inc.

The phenomenal economic growth in China, typified by the rise of Shanghai - now the world's biggest city, in the world's biggest country - will have an ever-increasing effect on world trade, and on the world of re-selling on the Internet.

China manufactures for the world, and anyone looking to source products just has to start their search in the China wholesale markets. And that means me, and probably you as well.

Many US re-sellers are still convinced that the way to a quick fortune is to go to China, find the guy who makes shoes for Gucci or handbags for Prada, and persuade him to run off an extra few hundred.

A less-reputable China wholesale manufacturer might do this, but the product will not bear the coveted label. You might manage to import the goods into the US, but no way can you sell them - legally - as brand-name products, even if they are made by the same manufacturer as the genuine product.

Beware the so-called "grey market". The Brand name companies are becoming ever-more aggressive in pursuing through the courts anyone infringing their copyright.

In most manufacturing sectors, China is a volume producer, which means that you will always be facing high minimum order quantities, typically thousands of units, which make it seem a no-go area for the solitary trader of modest means. But there is a solution to this problem, as you will see later.

China already has a good reputation for quality clothing, shoes, and basic commodities, but increasingly China wholesalers are turning to high-technology products.

The good news is that the China wholesale manufacturers and the agents are very clued-up on the US market, and very quick to respond to requests for sample products and price and delivery quotations. The really good news is that there is usually an unbelievably margin, so if you have the bankroll and the expertise you could really make a lot of money at this.

So what about a plan of action?

If the China wholesale market excites you, you really can't do without the services of a local China-based agent.

He is the guy who has personal contact with all the manufacturers and factory owners. He knows the China wholesale world intimately - he knows the best sources for all the products. He acts as the middleman and effectively as the purse-holder, and you will need such an expert to guide you through the minefield that is the Chinese-US tax issue.

He will ensure that the product gets shipped on time, and most importantly can check on the quality of the product before it is shipped.

These Chinese export agents are monitored and encouraged financially by their Government to promote China wholesale business overseas, so you should be able to find a reputable one without any problem.

The bottom line is - if you're serious about sourcing goods from China in volume, then you really can't do the business without a good China-based agent. You just have to invest the time to go over to China, ideally when one of the big trade fairs or conventions are taking place. (You can easily find this information on your favorite Search Engine).

Here you can meet with the agents, who can introduce you to the factory owners, who will invite you to the factory to see the product being made, and will probably give you an on-the-spot quotation.

You will find, as I did, that much business in China is still conducted on a personal-relationship basis, so if you don't make the personal contacts and establish and cultivate relationships in the China wholesale world, then you probably won't thrive in China.

If you simply haven't got the time or resources to establish personal contacts in China, then you could look for a good US based Chinese agent or broker - ideally one based in your own city or State.(Again, you can find one using the Search Engines). You may be lucky and find one who has good contacts in China, and he can guide you through much of the bureaucracy involved in importing from a China wholesaler.

Find out who he has represented before, and be sure to contact this person or business to check out your agent or broker.

There is an excellent resource on the internet with a lot of expertise in sourcing China wholesale products. This is the website at www.alibaba.com, which offers excellent advice, and can immediately supply details of Chinese manufacturers for your chosen product.

So there are 3 levels at which you can get involved with the China wholesale markets - the 3 paths to enlightenment and profit as we might call them.

At the bottom level,if you just want to get a feel for what is available, then spend some time on research at www.Alibaba.com - a great resource which can show you the incredible range of products available, and which can put you in contact with agents or manufacturers in the China wholesale business.

At a slightly more ambitious level, if you are committed to doing business long-term, then you could look for a reliable US-based Chinese agent or broker, who for a fee or commission will ease your way into the often-baffling world of importing goods from China.

And the serious marketers will jump in at the top level, and get themselves over to China, the sooner the better, in order to establish those long-term relationships with those active in the China wholesale world.

Relationships which will reap rich rewards for years to come.

If you aren't big enough or confident enough to face this on your own, then find a few other re-sellers in the same market - or related market - as yourself, and pool your time and resources. Whatever it takes, get into this lucrative market place - the potential profits are HUGE !

China and its manufacturers will have an enormous impact on the Internet re-selling world over the next 5 years.

It is already starting to happen, and the time to get involved is now.

The guy who sources the product at the lowest price is the guy who wins, particularly on the Internet.

And that lowest price will almost certainly be provided by a Chinese manufacturer.

If you're still not persuaded to check out the fabulous opportunities in the China wholesale markets, then you should certainly have a look at the best resource on the internet for sourcing products for reselling - just go to Sourcing

About the Author
Brendan Forde has 15 years experience in the IT industry. Now specialising in Internet start-up businesses. For your free ebook "Starting Your Internet Business Right" visit our Wholesale and Dropship Resources site at www.wholesale-dropship-researchproduct.com/

Fall Fashion 2005

2005-11-10T19:21:00.000-08:00

The overall theme of fashion for Fall 2005 is an air of drama. Black is back, coats are dramatic, and smart tailoring is going to be huge.

Black is back in a big way – well for most of us it never went away. The stores will be filled with delicious eveningwear particularly black lace, which is sexier than ever whether it’s girlie, 80’s retro, boho or red carpet elegant. This also works well with the next big trend which is Victorian. Full length skirts, high-necked ruffled blouses and puffed sleeves are the main features of this look. You can go for either prim or sexy. Accessorise with boots, hats and gloves for a total look.

Dresses are soft and feminine for Fall 2005. Velvet in sumptuous autumnal or jewel colours, while more boho-styled graphic prints will also be around for those of you who loved your hippy chic this summer and don’t want to give it up just yet.

Coats for this winter will be big and dramatic with big collars, possibly in fake fur. The big story however is going to be Houndstooth checks, the bigger and bolder the better.

In fact checks are big in all types of clothes this fall, including plaids and tartans which appear on everything from trousers and skirts to bags, shoes and hats.

Tailoring is back as one of the strongest features of Fall 2005 – in particular the pencil skirt which appears as part of a skirt suit. Skirts of all types are hot for Fall, straight, wide and swirly, and for the slimmest of figures only the ‘bubble’, a tulip shaped skirt which will exaggerate hips, so wear with caution!

National costumes have inspired lots of heavily decorated ethnic styles, in particular Russian styles, thick with embroidery and texture and topped off with a furry Russian-style hat, warm enough for the depths of a Moscow winter. Peru has also provided inspiration for embroidered clothes and bright knits.

There are many gorgeous accessories around this season to complete your outfit. Knee high boots, ideally with laced up details to go with the Victorian and ethnic looks, and platforms are making a comeback, usually with a narrow heel. If you prefer flats there will be lots of ballet pump styles. Metallics in shoes, bags and belts will also be popular. For daytime, bags can be as big as you like, either slouchy hobo styles or classic square types. For evening, bags should be tiny and decorated with tassels, jewels or embroidery.

The detail of the season will be pom-poms on everything from scarves to shoes, and the hottest color for accessories will be purple, preferably with studs.

About the Author: Jacqui O’Brien admits to a passion for fashion and a love of bargains. Her website is http://www.shopping-villages.co.uk a guide to the discount and outlet stores in the UK.

2005-10-03T10:05:00.000-07:00

Right now, Christian Dior sunglasses are the most sought after designer sunglasses on the market. As with everything that comes from Christian Dior, the workmanship in the design is flawless, and the line of sunglasses is no different. Even if you wear prescription glasses, with the interchangeable lenses, you can still wear the very fashionable Christian Dior sunglasses.

When you wear Christian Dior sunglasses, everyone will immediately recognize the classic styles that only belong to this designer. In both men’s and women’s designs, Christian Dior recognizes the need for including lenses for correcting vision problems in sunglasses. Therefore, it also includes sunglasses with interchangeable lenses in its line of products so that you can have your own prescription put into the lenses. No more clip-ons when you want to wear designer sunglasses.

Getting the right pair of sunglasses is a problem for people who have to wear eyeglasses to help them see. They cannot just choose a stylish pair of Christian Dior sunglasses and put them on. They need to have their prescription for their vision included in the lenses. This is what sunglasses with interchangeable lenses allow them to do. The prescription can be made into the frames and the lenses used by Christian Dior.

You might say that your optician doesn’t carry any of the Christian Dior sunglasses for you to choose the right frames. This is not a problem because you can order your Christian Dior sun glasses online. Choose the frames you want and send along your prescription with your order. With the advanced technology of sunglasses with interchangeable lenses, you can also have polarized lenses in the sunglasses to provide you with even more protection.

Just because you need to wear prescription glasses is no reason to think you cannot be as fashionable as your friends when wearing sunglasses. With the wide selection of Christian Dior sunglasses to choose from online, you will not only be able to get sunglasses with interchangeable lenses, but you will also be able to realize fantastic savings. The online dealers that sell Christian Dior can give you an outstanding discount in your next pair of sunglasses.

Christian Dior sunglasses can suit everyone, even those who need prescription lenses.

For a website totally devoted to Sunglasses visit Peter's Website Sunglasses Explained and find out about Sun glasses as well as Discount Sunglasses and more, including Gucci Sunglasses, Maui Jim Sunglasses, Rayban Sunglasses, Chanel Sunglasses, Oakley Sunglasses and more.

Your perfect handbag

2005-10-03T09:56:00.000-07:00

There are so many handbags on offer, how to select the one that would complement your figure and go with most of your outfits? See fashion expert tips.

What purse style would work best with your figure?

Never mind the current fashion: your handbag should first of all complement your figure. A tiny purse on a largish woman looks a bit silly. But even though large bags are in fashion now, don’t go overboard, otherwise the bag will distract attention from your person.

If you are slim and tall, go for a round or square shaped purse. If you are not very tall, a bottle shaped handbag would look best. And, of course, a not very large backpack works perfectly for any figure.

Most handbags have adjustable handles, so make use of them. Large bags should never hang at the level of your hips: if necessary shorten the handle, so the bag comes to your waist line. And if you wear a backpack, it should not hang down over your backside: adjust the handles so it is just above your waist. This looks better, doesn’t put as much pressure on your lower back, and forces you to keep a good posture.

What color should you choose?

These days handbags are very colorful. Of course, this means that you can no longer have just one bag that would go with any outfit you wear. However, if you wear a lot of blue, orange or green, a matching color purse would make your outfit complete. Fruit prints are currently ‘in’, with the most popular being cherries, peaches and apples.

As far as prints go, a plain, one-color handbag is more practical as it is easier to match with your clothes. However, if you wear a single-colored dress, adding a bright, multicolored handbag might be a good idea.

Also each season of the year favors different handbag colors. All greens are very popular in spring, while red and orange are often seen in autumn. Winter favorites are white and all shades of blue.

And, of course, black is still a classic, which goes with any outfit. Brown handbags, too, are still popular although they are not very practical: a brown bag would only work with brown or beige clothing.

What are most fashionable purse materials?

Leather is always a classic, and it works for any situation and with any outfit. However, other purse materials are fashionable now. Fabric bags can look very stylish, as well as a mix of fabric and leather. Straw bags are simple, and create a great look for the summer. Moreover, since straw looks very natural, it works well with a summer outfit of any color.

Tanya Turner is a fashion expert and a founder of http://www.allpurses.info/, where you can find fashion advice and tips about purses and handbags styles

Men's Fashion - Simple Style

2005-09-26T21:01:00.000-07:00

Many men and women do not have much idea about Mens Fashion. Very often the advice I have been approached on are what men can wear to appear professional or what men should wear so that they do not look outdated but overtly trendy.

I would greatly suggest understanding the basics of men’s fashion and put this knowledge into a permanent mens fashion style. There would not be anymore worry about following trends but perpetually looking stylish.

The basics of men’s fashion boil down to knowing what each piece of apparel is made up of. The fabrics used determine a lot on the quality of the apparel. Good fabrics allow the apparel to withstand wear and tear.

If any men’s clothing or accessories that wear out fast would naturally make it look old and badly cared. This does not reflect well of the men wearing it and easily put most men out of style just by looking shaggy.

The next important point we need to note are the details found in every apparel and accessories. Details can be subtle but it creates a very big impact in the eventual outlook of the styling.

So before we start playing with details, the knowledge of each detail’s responsibility and how it helps in holding up the item or even gives significance to it in style can assist us in choosing the best men’s clothing.

Learning how to coordinate is another tough thing for many men. It does not need to be if they just understand about the various concepts of coordination. Starting from differentiating the type skin complexion they belong to would be the most basic knowledge to acquire.

Then they just need to put on the right color clothing against their complexion that perks up their facial skin tone and brings the attention to their face.

After that, coordinating colors between the various men’s clothing is another method. There are various ways to match different and similar or same hues as well as the shades of hues to achieve the nicest blend of colors.

If they are adventurous, then there are more that they can create that puts two very contrasting colors and yet a harmonious fusion of such colors without looking weird or clownish.

Putting patterns against each other is another challenging task in mens fashion. It is through the play of patterns that can make many men look very trendy and stylish.

If not properly done, those clashing patterns would be a very trying and poorly executed attempt. It boils down in knowing the types of patterns and their scale before choosing how to put them together.

Men can go for two to four similar or different patterns coordination without even looking overdoing the matching. It is fundamental to keep the flow of patterns as natural as possible and create a relaxing look from the combination.

It is good to have an idea of how to put all these mens clothing and accessories together. From there we can develop a permanent styling and never have to worry about the next trend or whether it is unprofessional. At least all aspects of men’s fashion have been touched on. Therefore, if you are daring enough it is always possible to transform it into fashionable styling.

Mens Fashion Tips | Mens Fashion Advice | Guide on Mens Clothing

Fashionable Wholesale Clothing

Copyright 2005, http://www.mens-fashion-tips.com

FURRRRR….

2005-09-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

So how many of you have seen the latest fashion magazine covers doused with images of fur coats, sweaters, scarves and even hats? And how many of you are thinking “I absolutely MUST have one?” My guess would be, not many. Though this style looks absolutely fabulous on the runways and donning the red carpet, it is a bit impractical for the greater majority of us who spend the day in the office. Now, not to say this fad won’t be HUGE, it just might not be one of those “splurges” you should spend half this month’s salary on. If you’re itching to rock this chic trend, but don’t have the cajones to do so at work, the key is to make it simple and wearable. Trends are supposed to be fun, not taken too seriously. While a floor length fur coat is definitely not appropriate for the office, pairing your trusty winter trench with a fur scarf might be just enough to get noticed. Every fashion trend, no matter how unrealistic it may seem, can be translated into something wearable for everyone. Real fur might be out of the question considering the price tags are often upward of $2000, but just like every fad, there are many alternatives for you price-conscious divas. Meaning…Faux fur is the way to go---and unless you’ve grown up in Paris Hilton’s penthouse you probably won’t be able to tell the difference. It’s warm and cozy and it makes you feel like a million bucks, who cares if it didn’t cost you an arm & a leg. Stores like Bebe, Arden B, Nordstrom and even Bloomies will have more than enough fur for your liking. Look for fur-trimmed coats, sweaters, shoes and accessories. You definitely don’t need to overdo this glamour trend--simple chic all the way! Also another quick note, this trend should not be limited to evening galas and cocktail parties. As with most trends this season, dressing up is definitely the style. So, get ready for the rain and snow girls….winter’s almost here and it’s time to stock those closets!

Maleia Puma
Fashion Writer

Fashionable Clothing Wholesaler

The Shopping Splurge - Necessary Evil for a Fashion Diva

2005-09-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

Should we SPLURGE?

That is the unrequited question for womankind, isn’t it? This is quite possibly the “age old” question for the fashion savior-faire crowd of the world. The answer should come effortlessly; unfortunately we can't all afford to say yes to every expensive pair of heels that summons us or every pricey piece that catches our eye.

What exactly is it that causes us to lose all common sense and spend more than our bank accounts or maxed out credit cards will allow? Splurging is like a drug that picks you up out of that dark hole on a bad day. It can also serve as a reward system. “I just got a promotion, why can’t I buy those pair of Manolos I’ve been hopelessly drooling over at Neiman for the past 6 months?” Sometimes it's all about the label, sometimes it's all about the trend, sometimes it’s just the way it makes you feel. The important thing is that it's fun and it feels good to splurge…on occasion that is. This is where the savvy splurge comes in. A savvy splurge should be something that could be considered a “good investment.” It is these splurges that will last through the ever changing trends of the fashion world. But who is to say that the great pair of pink Ugg boots with the jewels on them or that super-cute hobo peasant skirt aren’t going to carry us through the 21st century? For all you girls out there who think every trendy piece of jewelry and every must have pair of shoes will in fact make a comeback in the year 2015, we might have a thing coming to us when those credit card companies decide to decrease our spending limits, or worse yet, suspend our cards!

So, the key to splurging is deliberation and occasion. If you’ve really thought it through and honestly, after you leave the store and come back a couple times, believe you absolutely HAVE to have that purse, go ahead and SPLURGE! Just make sure this process doesn’t tend to happen on a weekly or even monthly basis. And for those of you who don’t have the liberty of splurging on an $800 bag, stores like Forever 21, Styles for Less and even the local vintage shop or quick online clothing wholesaler come in handy for those ever-popular trends that might be over with a blink of an eye. So when you decide to take the plunge, make sure you are going to get the miles out of those pricey additions to your already fabulous wardrobe. Happy shopping!

Maleia Puma
Fashionable Wholesale Clothing

Fall Fashion Trends – Take your Denim Jacket to the Shrink this Season

2005-09-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

Fall and winter may have brought out long peacoats and trenches before, but not this year. One of the most sought-after pieces for the upcoming season will be the shrunken jacket, in a variety of styles. The difference between these new, tinier versions of your traditional autumn and winter favorites is their length; cuts are the same as traditional coats, but they hit slightly above the waist and often tie or button under the chest. The beauty of these new pieces is that they provide coverage in colder months without sacrificing sexiness or femininity.

The perfect jacket is one of the most important elements of your wardrobe, and with so many shapes and fabrics available this fall, it would be a crime to choose just one. The ever-present denim jacket is back with a new vengeance. Instead of the washes of last season or bulkiness of years before, this season’s denim jacket is soft, body-conscious and far more feminine than the traditional denim jacket. Corduroy and leather are back again, cropped and ready to be worn over anything from your favorite dress to distressed jeans.

A new take on an old favorite is safe, but take advantage on the amazing new fabrics and styles the end of the year has to offer. Brocade is big this season and some of the most sought-after new jackets are made of the rich, detailed design. Many of these brocaded, boudoir-style jackets are trimmed in rich velvet or lace piping and can be paired with tweed trousers of you favorite jeans. Many of these new jackets are cut at the hip but some are reaching even higher—cropped just below the chest (H & M). Made in rich, new fabrics like tweed and velvet, these jackets have mixed a traditionally matronly fabric with a cut and cling that makes it youthful and sexy. Even faux fur and metallic finishes are adorning the newest trend (Allen B. by Allen Schwartz).

Getting short isn’t the only new addition to a cold weather favorite. Sleeves are getting revamped this season, retro-style. Traditional coat fabrics like houndstooth are being used in a new way. Bell sleeves (think bellbottom sleeves, cut below the elbow) mix cropped length with a traditional fabric and throwback to 70s style (Banana Republic). You’ll also see a mini version of the military jacket this season; a cropped, girlie take on the long, heavy style, adorned with brass buttons and zippers (Bebe).

The beauty of these new jackets is the versatility they bring to your own style: mix them with denim, dresses, skirts and trousers. Since there isn’t one specific style or fabric that will reign this fall, all styles and sizes can take advantage of a new take on an old favorite.

Brenna Cleeland
Name Brand Wholesale Clothing

Helmut Lang - A Fashion Forward Life

2005-09-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

Helmut Lang’s innovative fashions have gained attention and praise for nearly twenty years, but the man behind the fashion empire lives in near obscurity. Before turning to fashion design, Lang went to a local academy and was trained to become a businessman in his native Vienna. His growing interest in European fashion led to the opening of his first studio in 1977. Throughout the mid-eighties, Lang became a celebrated designer with his first ready-to-wear collections in Switzerland.

In 1986, after the first success in Austria, he began showing women's clothes in Paris, followed by the 1987 venture: designing a men's collection. Lang oscillated between Vienna and Paris, designing in his atelier in Vienna and consulting with his agent in Paris. Ready-to-wear gave way to his couture line, popularizing his works throughout Europe even further. Gaining momentum and a devout following in the high-fashion world, the Helmut Lang name soon became synonymous with the avant guard, cutting edge design of the late nineteen eighties.

Today, Lang is considered one of the pace-makers of high fashion couture. Lang has been labeled a deconstructionist, a futurist, and a minimalist, always attributed with fashion trends that would be adopted by the fashion community. Lang’s first trademark creations used uncommon materials in cuts that were stark and clean with a near clinical coolness. His designs since have always remained casual with a certain air of harsh sterility. Prints are a rare find in Lang’s seasonal collections: his brand of minimalism creates a bizarre beauty in the cool, Brave New World look of mass production.

Lang’s sleek, urbane sensibility is especially present in his signature suits, bringing a certain androgyny to his collections: having little variation between his men’s and women’s pieces. Aside from his futurist take on the traditional suit, Lang gained wide popularity through his dresses. Lang’s dresses embody a certain sort of controlled chaos—slashed, asymmetrical or gathered yet still recognizably exclusive, high fashion couture. While tried-and-true Lang pieces have seen little change in fifteen years, the Helmut Lang label has experimented with more ornate feminine looks and accessories.

Lang’s fall/winter 2005 collection include a black, white, gray and metallic color scheme adorning signature jackets, skirts, suits and original dresses. Lang’s newly developed attention to fashion accessory detail will not disappoint this season. Fringe, horsehair, feathers, and metallic leather with an overlying S&M style cover handbags, earrings, pumps and belts while Lang’s fringed boots and hobo bags put a new spin on the fashion world’s most prevalent trend.

The Helmut Lang label has six stores worldwide throughout Europe and the United States, so while the namesake designer may be a rare find, his new couture fashions are always accessible to high fashion fans.

Brenna Cleeland - Freelance Fashion Editor
Wholesale Blank Apparel

Boho Chic, Boho Style – Fashion Trend or Fad ?

2005-09-09T12:01:00.000-07:00

Chances are you’re on one side of the fence: you love the Boho style that ruled 2005 or are sick of wearing fashions that make you feel like a newly-eighteen Olsen. The good news is everyone will love what fall and winter fashion has to offer. Fans of the look that made Sienna Miller a fashion icon will definitely love the over-the-top detail that will continue from Boho Chic into fall. Others that never felt comfortable in heavy jewelry, metal-adorned belts and shoes and flowy, diaphanous skirts, the new crop of fashion offers a different approach to rich detail that may make you feel more pulled together than looking like a gypsy.

Bold accessories will remain a staple in every fashion-forward woman’s wardrobe. Sorry Boho Chic haters, belts and boots look like they have staying power along with pendants, over-sized earrings, long chains and drop earrings. They may be staying on the shelves, but stones, feathers and shells that decorated the ears of spring and summer’s hottest fashionistas will be replaced by rhinestone-encrusted chandeliers and delicate drops. The long necklaces paired with the over-stated earrings will morph slightly from heavy, multi-layered, multi-stone piece to a simpler, chic, one-strand accessory. While the length and materials remain the same (gold still the winner), the detail will shift from Boho’s accessories to fall and winter’s fabrics.

Ultra-rich fabrics like lace and brocade are the hottest additions to fall and winter lines. Back-again-black along with gray and purple are the most popular for jaw-dropping dresses, frilly tops and tweed trousers that will line racks and closets everywhere in upcoming months. The feminine, flowy look will still be desirable, but it will be achieved with blouson skirts and culottes instead of sheer, floor-length numbers. If you’re concerned newer more regal fabrics like velvet, lace and tweed will still look make you look more thirties than twenties, you can still look eclectic-chic by matching new pieces with your favorite over-stated Boho belts and jewelry. If you’re still worried about shifting from fun and flirty to dark and serious, mix fabrics to achieve an even more eclectic look: there are NO rules this season about mixing tweeds and velvet or brocades with lace. More than anything, have fun mixing your existing styles with a totally new style to find your personal fit—fall and winter will bring plenty of opportunity to get away with experimenting.

Brenna Cleeland
Stylish Blank Clothing

Back to Black

2005-09-07T17:11:00.000-07:00

One trend that will never go out of style…yep you guessed it, the o-so-simple-yet-classy B-L-A-C-K.

In industries around the world, high fashion, euro-fashion, action sports/surfer chic, etc. the past year has been all about color, from the overly-saturated HOT pink to orange to yellow and even bright greens. BUT, for all you girls who love those classic black pants or simple black cocktail dress, this Fall is YOUR season! And for those who love to play up the girly side, the trend is heading towards more feminine and attention-getting pieces. Cocktail-length dresses in velvet or chiffon, soft and touchable “flowy” knits, sexy suits- pant or skirt, and even a plain black tee with a little colorful jewelry for flair are going to be saturating the streets. It’ll be nice to enjoy being comfortable, yet chic, in the most flattering color for all body types.

Key pieces for the season are “the little black dress,” which I’m sure all of you own at least one; black velvet or chiffon; and the classic black trench adorned with bows, rosettes & beading.

If you are lacking any of these essentials and are about to rush to the store, I suggest you start from the top down. By that I mean, head down to the nearest uspacel mall and torture yourself by strolling through all the major label retail stores.

Versace
Prada
Marc Jacobs
Gucci
Christian Dior
Dolce & Gabanna

However, if you’ve already broke the bank on clothes this year……you can usually find these items for less at BCBG, bebe, overstock.com and of course Nordies (That’s Nordstroms for you non-valley girl types).

So prepare your wardrobe girls, black is back with a vengeance!

Maleia Puma

Roberto Cavalli: The Fashion King

2005-09-06T19:33:00.000-07:00

Roberto Cavalli was born on November 15th, 1940 in Italy. He came from a modest family with strong artistic talents and traditions. His grandfather had been an impressionist painter, his mother a tailor .

Cavalli began his career as a young student. Himself and his friend invented, experimented and designed. His first revolutionary creation was a process of printing on light-weight leather.

His print house was a cross between a craftsman's workshop and an artist's studio. He was able to accomplish this because of his detailed fabric research and his continuous experimenting with different technologies.

Eventually Cavalli patented the process of printing on leather. Over the next ten years he created what’s known as “patchwork” or “patch quilt” a result of sewing together odd pieces of leather together. During the 1970’s Roberto Cavalli gained international recognition, This was the true beginning of his career.

In 1972 Roberto Cavalli showed his first collection in the historic White Room of Palazzo Pitti in Florence which led to a real scandal. On the catwalk his models were wearing patchwork on denim. Denim was a fabric that was highly disregarded by the straight-laced.

A scorpio true to heart, Cavalli simply refused to bow to the dictatorship of the prevailing fashion. Rather he chose to run as an outsider defending his creativity all the way.

In the early 1990s Roberto Cavalli with the assistance of his wife Eva Duringer, relaunched his challenge to the fashion system. He took his catwalk extravaganza to MilanoCollezioni.

Over the years he has expanded and as well as his Womenswear collection, new lines have been launched: Menswear, Just Cavalli a line for youngsters, Underwear, Class which is a knitwear collection, Freedom his casual line, Eyewear, Timewear, Angels for children 4-14) and Homewear.

An inspiration to the international jet-set, Roberto Cavalli is eclectic, social and ironic by nature, as a designer he sets himself apart through his natural vivaciousness and extreme cordiality, as well as his proverbial hospitality.

He loves to surround himself with friends to celebrate not only his successes but even the smallest occasion: He is known for his brilliant career and as equally as well for his spectacular parties

Roberto Cavalli is a mainstay among the famous international designers. He continues to enjoy and have a blast each and every day. He stated recently “I’ve been running after success my whole life. It took me 35 years but I finally caught it and I’m happy now.”

In today’s world everyone knows his name! His fashions are known for their raucous elegance, ridiculous embellishment, and shameless sexiness. Cavalli feels that too many designers were designing into the mold of sellable.

Roberto Cavalli never fell into that trap, he consistently and continuously designed outside the box. Cavalli says “Every day I go to work to create what I think of as a form of art, but art that only comes to life when it is worn by a woman at her strongest moment, when she is feeling free, in love with her life and her self.”

We an expect to see Cavalli’s designs continue to hit the catwalk. Visit Robert Cavalli’s Official Fashion Site http://www.robertocavalli.it/ Moda Italia http://www.modaitalia.net/robertocavalli/indexen.shtml

Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry, and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Guide to the Lateset Fashion Labels

2005-09-05T11:27:00.000-07:00

From the runway to the impulse-buy section at the grocery store, people today are always looking for the newest, latest fashions. Sporting fancy labels attests to one’s worldview, cultural roots and place in society.

A' Gaci - Agaci.Too, the parent company for Twigland Fashions, was founded in 1971 in a downtown shop in San Antonio, Texas. Twigland Fashion is now one of the world’s fastest growing fashion chains for juniors. The label keeps up with the constantly changing world of fashion while adhering to one 32-year standing goal- to make women look and feel sexy and glamorous. Consultants help women to achieve just that with Twigland Fashions. The market is trendy clothes for plus-size young women.

A Gift from the Gods originated in the hip East End of London. They design trendy, unique, graffiti-style t-shirts and accessories in the Goth fashion. This label could outfit the entire cast of Buffy the Vampire Slayer in hip, Goth-style accessories. Favorite color schemes are black and silver with red This label enjoys pairing unlikely clothing combos for the most unique styles, for example a rain parka and combat boots.

Absolu created “Stephy”, doeskin stretch trousers, in 1991. This label stands apart from the rest with its telling trait of combining leather with other materials, such as warp and weft or stitch. The label continues to experience massive sales growth and has a diverse customer-base. Absolu stylists begin with the finest leathers as a foundation, then build on that with fashionable shapes and colors to create hit trends. Absolu is currently expanding geographically due to a large international market. The designs are becoming a must-have in women’s fashion collections. Absolu has stores in Switzerland and Paris to date.

Art Point provides what fashion experts are calling a fresh look at ornaments of various cultures through the prism of today's reality. By using cultural aspects as inspiration for accessories and ornaments, their fashion becomes more than just a trend, but rather a cultural icon. Their line of accessories includes jewelry and handbags. In addition to accessories and ornaments, Art Point also designs clothing including t-shirts and silk scarves.

Their market is growing into new avenues such as interior projects as well as promotional projects, exhibitions and performances. Art Point began business in 1993.

Aquscutum is a classic British brand name. The business was born in London in 1851. The name Aquascutum comes from the Latin words for watershield. The name is fitting to this company whose main lines include showerproof woollen rainwear made from the highes quality cloth for raincoats. This label provided trenchcoats for British soldiers in both world wars. The royal family even commissioned the company to tailor royal garments. Today the products have been adapted to civilian-wear, and the company is highly reputable in the world of fashion.

Keith Kingston is a professional web publisher who offers advice on brand label jeans, with brands such as seven jeans, guess jeans, hudson jeans and dnco jeans.

Gianni Versace - A Fashion Success Story

2005-09-03T04:08:00.000-07:00

Gianni Versace was born in 1946 in Reggio, Calabria, in Southern Italy. Versace received his love of fashion and first lessons on dress-making from his mother.

Initially Versace trained as an architect, but soon he followed his mother into the fashion business. Versace worked for a number of top Italian fashion houses, but in 1978 with the help of his brother Santo he launched his own label.

Versace was a great fashion pioneer who combined the worlds of high style and pop culture. He was a charismatic and accomplished designer of clothing and theater costumes.

Versace appreciated a range of historic attire which he incorporated into his designs and he was greatly influenced by Andy Warhol and modern abstract art.

Wowzer! Best describes the fashions designed by Gianni Versace. He was notorious for designing garments that would shock and startle our senses. Versace saw his designing as an art form. He initiated clothing that was visually excessive and provocative- fashions that confronted accepted codes of taste, beauty and sexuality.

Fashion became entertainment, to be watched and admired - not simply worn. For Versace nothing was too extravagant too crazy or too risque. Yet no matter how extravagant or provocative Versace's clothes were always strikingly well designed garments designed to flatter the body.

Versace was the designer of choice for many of the rich and famous: pop stars such as Elton John, and Madonna; film stars such as Will Smith, and Elizabeth Hurley and even royalty - Princess Diana.

The wealthy were drawn to his clothes like magnets, and that enhanced his reputation. However, Vercasse did not design simply for the wealthy his clothes were very much available to the average person.

In 1985 he launched the Istante label in 1985; and after years as Gianni's muse, his sister Donatella became his co-designer and launched the Versace diffusion range, Versus, in 1989.

These labels featured clothes within the budgets of many consumers; not only were they priced lower than the custom-made clothes, but they were also aimed at younger markets. In 1988 Versace received the Cutty Sark Award as "the most innovative and creative designer in the world"; and in 1993 the Council of Fashion Designers of America awarded him the American fashion Oscar.

On July 15, 1997 Versace was shot to death outside his South Beach home in Miami, Florida by a crazed gunman name Andrew Cunanan. Since his untimely death in 1997 the Versace fashion house continues to grow under the creative leadership of his sister Donatella and the business acumen of his brother Santo. Donatella’s daughter Allegra inherited 50% of the company last summer when she turned 18. However, Donatella is still very much in charge.

The days of the wet-look, shocking pink PVC and as much flash and flesh as a catwalk can take are long gone. The new Versace is growing up. "I'm not blind," says Donatella. "I know that most women don't look like models.

We had to start addressing other parts of a woman's life. The fashion business is a very different place from when Gianni started the label.” Donatella's mind is very much on the continued success of Versace.

With Donatella at the helm, and Santo and Allegra at her side, they continue to grow and develop the Versace Product Lines with fabulous designs unveiled for the 2005 Spring Season. The proof is in the Versace spring fashion line - Have a look for yourself!

http://www.newyorkmetro.com/fashion/fashionshows/05/spring/runway/versace/
http://www.milanfashionshows.com/spring2005/versace/photos.htm
http://www.style.com/fashionshows/collections/S2005RTW/review/VERSACE

Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry, and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Petite Women In Search Of Petite Size Jeans

2005-09-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

A jean crisis is certainly something to worry about, especially for petite size women. It is hard for women to find the right womens clothes, now add your smaller structured women to the mix and it is almost impossible to find certain things, especially the right jean with the proper boot cut.

501s are totally the wrong shape for the petite size women. Bootcut jeans with heels can have some great appeal, but is not for everyone. Try wearing a medium stack-heeled boot. Otherwise, casual style shoes also look good with bootcuts, depending on the occasion. But remember the jeans need to hover around the ankle or a bit longer for that sophisticated and stylish look.

With petite size clothing it is imperative to make a decision on the shoes before you buy the jeans, and wear the right shoes when you're trying them on. Now this doesn't necessarily mean making a decision on a new pair of shoes before buying those petite size jeans. It only means the decision of the shoes you currently own. The major reason this decision is to be made prior to the petite size jean selection, is that the heel determines how the jean will fall or lay to the ground.

Another thing is that petite size jeans aren't pre-shrunk when you buy them, unless you are looking at the stretch denim, so you need to allow for a bit of shrinkage. So put your best guessing cap on and take a guess of the shrinkage. This will allow you to be a bit more loose on the length, and don't forget that most clothing stores these days do alterations, what a blessing for all the petite size women. Also a friendly reminder for you and the alterations person is to make sure they add that stitching on the bottom.

Today many jean manufactures are understanding the needs of womens clothes. Levi's now has a slim-fit bootcut called a 525, Diesel also has some stylish and well fitting jeans for petite sizes. Many petite people are now wearing diesel jeans, so it appears they're putting together shorter lengths. Otherwise, you can't go wrong checking out the Gap for smaller sizes and today the internet has some great clothing stores that specialize in petite size clothing. Their prices are competitive, their styles have great flare and many of the online stores give you free shipping.

Bowe Packer is the webmaster and content provider for http://www.clothes-4u.com. His website: http://www.clothes-4u.com is dedicated to providing free fashion advice and tips for women. Offering excellent tips and strategies for women to look good in the areas of Casual, Petite Size, Plus Size clothing, as well as dress, athletic and casual shoes. You can reach him at: bowe@clothes-4u.com

Couture Fashion

2005-09-01T19:35:00.000-07:00

Haute Couture is a French phrase for high fashion. Couture means dressmaking, sewing, or needlework and haute means elegant or high, so the two combined imply excellent artistry with the fashioning of garments. The purchase of an haute couture model garment is at the top level of hand customised fashion design and clothing construction made by a couture design house. A model haute couture garment is made specifically for the wearer's measurements and body stance. The made to measure exclusive clothes are virtually made by hand, carefully interlined, stay taped and fitted to perfection for each client.

www.ebridals.com is a a site which have the wide range of wedding gowns, prom dresses, bridesmaid dresses exclusively designed by couture designer Andy anand which are hand-made and hand-beaded which have the feelings of ‘’today’’ yet they are classic. It is fair to say that the dresses are usually of very high quality, so many people are happy to pay a price that they feel reflects the image and standard.

The final toile of a design idea is an accurate interpretation of the line or cut right down to the button placement or hemline that the designer is seeking. Once satisfied the designer instructs his staff to make up the garment in the selected and exclusive materials. One seamstress or tailor will work on the garment from start to finish. The cutting and finishing is done in one room and the workroom manageress is responsible for everything produced in that room. When a customer decides to order a Haute Couture garment she needs to first make an appointment with the design house prior to any visit to Paris. Model garments from collections are sometimes out of the country being presented elsewhere. Some couture houses provide video of the collection to the serious purchasers.

Couture Fashion is a language of signs, symbols and iconography that non-verbally communicate meanings about individuals and groups. Fashion in all its forms from a tattooed and pierced navel, to the newest hairstyle, is the best form of iconography we have to express individual identity. It enables us to make ourselves understood with rapid comprehension by the onlooker.

Celebrity fashions for Women on a Budget

2005-08-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

It’s never ending Jessica Simpson totes a Vuitton bag, Courtney Cox is seen in Instyle wearing a beautiful Prada dress, Hilary Swank heads down the runway wearing Calvin Klein. If that’s not enough Paris Hilton arrives on the scene with Chanel sunglasses while Jennifer Lopez is seen with Fendi.

Whether it’s Versace, Chanel, Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, Calvin Klein, Prada or Fendi, how the heck is the average woman going to be able to stay in style like the stars.

Let’s face it. Although we dream about owning that beautiful Vuitton handbag or that Prada dress. For most of us that’s about as far as it goes. Most of these items start in the mid hundreds of dollars and easily climb to a value of over $5000, for just one piece.

For the stars there is no worry about saving to buy those designer items. For them price is no object as they freely dole it out for what ever their heart desires. But it doesn’t take a brain surgeon to figure out most of us will never own these items. So what do we do? Well that’s easy.

You and I buy items that look a lot like the designer items. Many call these knock offs and that they are but please realize there are licensed copies and then there are copies that infringe on copyrights. We do not condone any company that infringes on copyrights. We do however encourage you to shop for items that made similar to the items we see the stars wearing. It’s the only way we an look like a million bucks on our shoe string budgets. However, the savy online shopper can find real designer items for a fraction of the costs while only paying a dollar or two for shipping.

So....as you flip through this months Vogue or Instyle you are going to see some wonderful fashions that you are just going to have to have for the fall. Don’t worry within the next few weeks similar styles will be arriving at a boutique or Walmart near year. You can look as good as the stars for a fraction of the cost.

After all are your friends of co-workers going to notice your purse isn’t quite the same shape or fabric. Are they going to notice that the dress has a slightly different cut neck or length. I think not. You’ll be close enough for most to think you’ve suddenly got designer taste.

What are you waiting for? It’s going to be a hot fashion season and you are going to be a fashion goddess this season with some savvy shopping.

Sher from Estate Jewelry International have been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Buying Wholesale Clothing - A Harsh Reality for Startup Businesses

2005-08-27T17:03:00.000-07:00

In my line of business, I often receive emails and phone calls from people who are just starting their online retail businesses and searching for wholesalers who can give them competitive prices on the latest merchandise from the most popular brand names. While it’s understandable that one would want to sell the latest merchandise from the highest quality, most popular brand names, it’s often an unrealistic goal unless you have a substantial amount of capital to invest in your business.

This is not to say that every prospective entrepreneur with the dream of establishing an online retail business should just throw in the towel – quite the contrary. Prospective online retailers need to understand the reality of the consumer goods industry, the abilities that they have based on their capital investment, and then design their business plan accordingly. In my next article, I’ll discuss some excellent options for prospective entrepreneurs with limited capital.

Popular Brands Work Hard to Protect Their Reputation

But first, let’s look at how some of the most successful companies in the consumer goods market operate their distribution channels. Companies with highly popular brand names have worked hard to establish these brands. Understandably, in order to protect the reputation of their brand names, they often establish strict controls in their distribution channel to ensure that their name is not compromised by association with a sub-standard retailer.

Authorized Retailers Only

Some clothing distributors do no require you to be an authorized reseller, however most directly control their distribution channel and only sell their products to authorized retailers who have met their application requirements. Their requirements for authorized retailers often include:

1. A substantial minimum sales volume

2. A physical presence, not just an online storefront

3. An established history of retail sales and an exemplary credit rating

4. Strong recommendations from other vendors with whom a business has dealt

No Distribution to Any Private Retailers

Some brands don’t allow private retailers to resell their products at all. Companies who operate in this manner may own their own retail shops and online retail websites. This is rare, but there are still some companies who operate like this, not allowing any independent retailer – large or small – to carry their products.

Strict Requirements of Wholesalers

Many brands don’t directly control their distribution channels, opting to allow wholesalers to handle distribution to retailers. However, even if they don’t directly control distribution, they still may establish policies that their wholesalers must follow. These policies may be very similar to the policies often employed by brands that directly control distribution, employing one or more of the following requirements:

1. A substantial minimum sales volume

2. A physical presence, not just an online storefront

3. An established history of retail sales and an exemplary credit rating

4. Strong recommendations from other vendors with whom a business has dealt

Do Your Research. Call the Manufacturer.

Companies who operate their distribution channels with any of these levels of control will most likely not allow small volume wholesale purchases, eliminating distribution to start-ups with limited capital. The best advice that I can give to a prospective retailer is to pick up the phone and do your research directly with the source. Call the company’s sales or public relations department and inquire about their distribution policies before putting forth a lot of effort searching for their products through wholesalers. You’ll potentially save yourself hours of wasted time. Not to mention, if you happen to meet the requirements for establishing a direct relationship with the manufacturer, there is no better place to obtain your products.

In my next article, I’ll look at options that are available for the majority of prospective online retailers, those who don’t have an endless source of investment capital that would allow them to meet the reseller requirements of any manufacturer. For those businesses, the newest merchandise from the most popular brands may not be an option. However, that doesn’t mean that the dream of owning an online retail store is out of reach. Until then, do your research by calling manufacturers to inquire about their distribution policies, and, as always, good luck in all of your business ventures!

About the Author: Kirk A Larson has worked for over 15 years in business as a writer, personnel manager, and most recently for the last 4 years as a successful entrepreneur. To learn more about Wholesalers, visit The Wholesale Suppliers Registry at http://www.wholesale-suppliers.net

Buying Wholesale Clothing - A Harsh Reality for Startup Businesses Part 2

2005-08-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

In my last article, “The Reality of Buying Wholesale,” we looked at some of the controls that the largest companies in the consumer goods market place on their distribution channels. As we learned, some of these companies make it impossible for the small, start-up online retailer to obtain their merchandise.

However, this is no reason to give up on your dream of being a retailer. Less capital to invest just requires a little more creativity. Many established retailers have built their businesses by starting out small and then adding more products as they grew. In this article, we’ll look at some creative options available for those who don’t meet the requirements to be an authorized retailer with some of the most popular brand names.

Where do businesses find merchandise?

I’m sure some of you are thinking right now about the many eBay sellers or independent online retailers who sell popular brand names. If they are products that are only sold direct to authorized retailers, or through wholesalers bound by strict manufacturer’s requirements, then these sellers are obtaining their products in one of three ways:

1. They are an authorized retailer who met the manufacturer’s requirements
2. They are selling used merchandise
3. They purchased their merchandise through liquidation or closeout

Sell Used Goods

If you’re looking to make money selling on eBay, selling used merchandise is a very viable idea. Many sellers, including several of my personal friends, have built successful eBay businesses selling used clothing, electronics, musical instruments, and toys, just to name a few. They locate their merchandise through estate sales, garage sales, classified ads, thrift stores, consignment shops, and sometimes even through eBay itself. Then they clean up the merchandise if need be, and list it for sale in an attractive and exciting way. I know several people who substantially subsidize their existing incomes by doing this, and I even know a couple who do nothing but sell on eBay.

Closeouts and Liquidations

Closeouts and liquidations are also a very viable source of merchandise for both eBay and an online retail store. With a good closeout or liquidation source, you purchase reasonable lots of overstocked or discontinued merchandise. You’ll be purchasing last year’s models, but there is a large market out there for this merchandise. Most people don’t have to have the latest style or model, especially when there is a large savings involved by purchasing last year’s products. Many sources of liquidations and closeouts are available by searching online and calling around to do your research.

Consider Lesser Known Brands

Another option is to look at other brands that may not be among the most popular. Not every consumer has to have the most popular, most expensive brand. In fact, most people don’t buy the top brands all of the time, making this market very large. This is an excellent option for someone who wants to establish a retail store selling brand new, recent model merchandise. Once you establish yourself as a respected retailer in this market, your reputation will make applying to resell other products that much easier.

Keep an Open Mind

When you’re deciding on a business venture, it’s very important that you don’t go in with blinders on. Be willing to consider multiple types of products before deciding on the items that you want to sell. For instance, clothing, consumer electronics, and DVDs are very popular items, and not just among consumers but also among sellers. If you choose a very popular market, the requirements for resale may not only be more difficult, but it may also be more difficult to compete with the mass of sellers in the market.

Creativity is King

Creativity is king in the business world. To be successful, you must locate a niche where you can provide a benefit that makes your business stand out. When I talk of creativity, I don’t necessarily mean originality, either. There is a difference. It’s difficult to be original in the business world, as so much has been done already. Originality doesn’t always win either. If you’re too above and beyond the norm, people may not relate to your approach, and thus turn away.

Creativity could be as simple as borrowing an idea from another market and applying it to a market where it hasn’t been used. People had long delivered flowers, and people had long delivered groceries, but no one had ever delivered pizzas until Domino’s started doing it. Now everyone down to the smallest corner pizza joint delivers pizza because it works.

That’s an example on a grand scale of where a simple idea grew into a giant success. Not all of us will be as fortunate as Domino’s, but millions of business owners have succeeded using the same principles. They located a niche where they could provide a benefit that made them stand out, if even ever so slightly from their competitors. This advantage gave them market share, and now they live comfortably from the proceeds of their creativity.

Put Forth the Time and You Will Reap the Benefits

Creating a business requires a great deal of time and research. You’ll need to research products and find some that are attainable at a price that will make you a profit. Then, you’ll need to research the market and determine an approach that will set you apart. At the same time, remember to keep an open mind and consider several markets, ideas, and approaches before you decide on the best fit. You have a lot of work ahead of you, but no one ever said that good things come easy. And I can tell you that when you do your research and do it right, the benefits are more than worth the effort.

In my next article, I’ll be discussing the reasons the Internet has made business ownership much more attainable within the last five years. Until then, put on your thinking hats and find yourself an idea worth that’s worth the effort. And, as always, good luck in all of your business ventures!

About the Author: Kirk A Larson has worked for over 15 years in business as a writer, personnel manager, and most recently for the last 4 years as a successful entrepreneur. To learn more about Wholesalers, visit The Wholesale Suppliers Registry at http://www.wholesale-suppliers.net

Finding Vintage Clothing

2005-08-26T03:16:00.000-07:00

Why Vintage?

Why would anyone want to wear vintage clothing? First of all, it's fun! When you wear vintage, you stand out from the crowd. The chances of someone else wearing the same exact outfit to that special event are slim to none. More and more high school girls are shopping vintage for dances and proms because it guarantees originality. Yasmine, a vintage clothing collector from Los Angeles, says, "I wear vintage so I can add a little something authentically retro to my clothing and not look the same as everyone else, which is difficult in style-conscious L.A.."

Vintage clothing is also nostalgic. Remember the good old days when there were party lines and soda shops? Me neither, but wearing vintage gives a girl the chance to experience a small part of history. In today's ambiguous world, it feels nice to pull on a crinoline and full feminine skirt once in a while. Let's face it: grown-up girls like to play dress up, too!

For the thrifty, the prices on vintage items should be incentive enough. Local thrift stores, flea markets, and yard sales are excellent sources of old clothing at unbelievable prices. Broke? Go volunteer to help clean out grandma's attic! I've gotten several vintage pieces handed down to me since I began collecting about two years ago.

Online Shopping

The internet has made it easy for vintage clothing enthusiasts to comparison shop and buy items that may not be available in their area. Type "vintage clothing" into any search engine and you'll get hundreds of results. There are a few things you should know before purchasing vintage wear online, however.

Carol, owner of Dandelion Vintage, a fun and inexpensive online Vintage Clothing shop based in New Jersey, recommends that first-time buyers be aware of what it means to buy and wear vintage clothing. "It's not like something new and fresh from Macy's, it's going to feel different and smell differently (there is no "new" clothing smell) and the items do need to be treated a little more carefully," she said, adding that customers should always ask questions up front about the garments, especially if they are unsure of the size or condition. When shopping vintage online, she says, be sure to read the site's terms of sales, ordering procedure, and return policy before ordering.

There are many different styles and eras to choose from. Items from the late 19th century on up through the 1980's are available. Whatever your style, you're sure to find something to suit you. Carol suggests customers buy what they like and avoid following trends, which is excellent advice when it comes to collecting of any type.

Making it Work

Vintage clothing can be teamed up with modern apparel or mixed and matched with other vintage pieces. Back in L.A. Yasmine says, "I find that wearing head to toe vintage is just not practical in day to day life, but by adding a few pieces I can create a look that is uniquely my own. I often buy high-end designer shoes and team them with a $1.00 vintage dress and a Gap cardigan. The look is pulled together and definitely mine."
There you have it: vintage clothes are fun, affordable, and enable the wearer to create and maintain an original look. So what are you waiting for? Go shopping!

Excellent vintage pieces at affordable prices can be found at http://www.dandelion-vintage.com

About The Author

A homemaker and homeschooling mother of four who enjoys collecting and wearing vintage clothing.

myrandamorgan@yahoo.com

Custom T-shirts - Put Your Logo on Cotton

2005-08-24T03:02:00.000-07:00

An effective way to gain company recognition is to order custom t-shirts with your company name, logo, phone number, and other important information on them. You can use customized apparel to outfit your employees as well as to contribute a sense of professionalism and reliability to your company. In addition to outfitting your company with the custom apparel, you can market your brand by distributing the custom designed clothing to your customers and potential clients.

Ordering custom t-shirts is easy: you can contact a local printer to make them, or you can design and order them online. There are several websites that have t-shirt design interfaces in which you can design and order your t-shirts entirely online. The one down side is that you end up using their basic t-shirts instead of quality blank clothing. Whatever type of company you choose, however, you will want to make sure that the process they use is screen-printing rather than heat transferring because the prints will last longer and look more professional.

Because printing prices can vary drastically, you should get quotes from several different companies before ordering. The benefits of ordering online include convenience, not having to pay taxes on the goods, and in some cases, complimentary shipping. The benefits of using a local screenprinter include being able to see the goods before you purchase them, and perhaps, speaking directly with the artist. A downside to ordering locally includes having to go to the local screenprinter to place your order and then picking the items up yourself. If you order online, however, you will have the items shipped directly to you. An online screenprinter that we find very reputable for printing company apparel and custom t-shirts is DesignAShirt.com. Check the yellow pages for local printers.

Whether you are ordering locally or online, the entire process from ordering to receiving your apparel should take around 2 weeks. If you need the apparel faster, you can opt for other production and/or shipping methods for additional fees. Some companies can get the goods to you from the time of ordering in as early as three business days.

Ordering your own company t-shirts is not the only way to advertise on apparel. Inquire about sponsoring community events that are coming up in your area. These events may have their own custom t-shirts in addition to other promotional materials that you could have your company logo printed onto if you are helping sponsor it. Such events include fundraisers, sporting events, and school functions. Check your local papers and community newsletters for more information about such community events and sponsorship opportunities.

Kelli Fassbender is a writer and designer for Custom-t-shirts.info. This article is provided courtesy of custom-t-shirts.info and can be reprinted as long as the author and company information is included. Custom-t-shirts.info offers advice for printing, sizing, and pricing custom t-shirts. For more information about custom t-shirts visit: http://www.custom-t-shirts.info.

Finding Stylish Maternity Clothes for Your Clothing Botique

2005-08-23T02:46:00.000-07:00

Here is a sampling of the best maternity shops online. You’ll undoubtedly find one or several that match your budget and style! Remember to feel good it helps to look good, so why not indulge in a maternity outfit or two?

BabyStyle http://www.babystyle.com
In this store you’ll find maternity fashions at reasonable prices, with free shipping on large orders! Babystyle also offers a selection of what they call ‘transition’ maternity wear… clothes you can wear after the baby comes but before you are ready to fit back into your pre-pregnancy clothing!

Motherhood http://www.motherhood.com
This is another great maternity stop for moms looking for well-priced maternity clothes for all seasons. Motherhood contains a comprehensive selection of maternity wear and nursing items for moms young and old alike.

Bella Blu http://www.bellablumaternity.com
Designer maternity fashions for the fashion conscious mother. If you are looking for something hip and stylish, check here first!

Mom’s Maternity http://www.momsmaternity.com
This store features maternity clothes, lingerie and more for tall, petite and plus sized women.

A Pea in the Pod http://www.apeainthepod.com
Slightly more expensive maternity clothes and accessories. Considered one of the more popular maternity outlets.

Mimi Maternity http://www.mimmaternity.com
Fashionable maternity clothing for hip mothers everywhere.

Maternity Mall http://www.maternitymall.com
Features maternity fashions from a variety of top label and designer maternity fashion providers.

Don’t forget many traditional retailers also offer a wide selection of exceptional maternity wear and clothing. The stores listed below carry traditional and maternity clothes for fashion and budget conscious moms. Here are some other places you should consider when shopping for maternity wear:

Target – http://www.target.com

Old Navy - http://www.oldnavy.com

Gap – http://www.gap.com

If you are really looking to save dollars, you should consider buying second hand maternity wear online. E-bay is one of the world’s largest online auction houses, and here you’ll find literally thousands of choices when it comes to maternity wear. Most sellers will post pictures of the assorted clothing they have for sale, and very often you will find designer maternity items at a fraction of the cost a retailer would sell them for.

What to Buy? Are you wondering what your maternity wardrobe should contain? Though women have varying preferences and styles, there are a few items that every woman should have in her maternity wear closet. Among these include:

- Jeans
- Pair of black or khaki slacks
- One skirt or dress
- Variety of Maternity T’s and Tops
- Maternity Bra

You may or may not have to buy maternity underwear. While some women find the support in these comforting, others find that traditional bikini underwear purchased a size or two larger than normal work just as well, and are less expensive and come in more colors and styles.
You will find that your breasts are growing throughout your pregnancy. A good maternity bra is recommended. You should buy a bra that allows a little room for expansion however, as your breasts will likely inflate even more when they fill with milk close to delivery.

Remember that as a pregnant woman you deserve to look and feel your best. Don’ t hesitate for a moment to pamper yourself and purchase a few items that will not only help you look great, but will help you feel great during your pregnancy.

Article by Beverley Brooke

Visit http://www.pregnancy-weight-loss.com/maternity-clothes.html for more on maternity clothes

Fashion Marketing

2005-08-22T02:30:00.000-07:00

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.

Amie Pronowski writes about style topics such as fashion marketing.