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Why is Fashion So Fashionable?

Many people look at fashion and say that magazines and celebrities start trends in the fashion industry. That may be true but did you know that you can set your own fashion trend. If people like it well enough and see it often enough they may start copying it for a look for them selves thus creating a fashion trend. A fashion trend is copying the look of some one else and more and more people copying the same look so they can look like that person. In writing copying is not okay, but in the fashion industry it is considered to be a good thing because the more people you have that want to look like you the more people will be your line of designs or your line of clothing if you have it placed in a retail store.

In fashion there are other ways at looking at trends. Another way of looking at trends is through celebrities. Trends tend to come and go because of what you might see a celebrity wear to the SAG Awards or to another award show. Singers also tend to set fashion trends when they go to the video music awards or country music awards. There are a lot fashion trends set by singers, celebrities, movies, video songs, and others in the television industry. You would be surprised at how many people buy clothes to dress like a certain person that they look up to. Also, they decide who to follow and what trends to follow. You always want to look good because you want to have a good example for the people who follow you.

The fashion world is tough because you have jobs in the fashion world that depend on you to do your job as a model or designer and if you do not produce clothes to set every thing in place for the trends to occur and happen then you don't have a trend. In fashion every thing is different from one day to the next and it can change in the blink of an eye. You can have some thing be hip two minutes ago and in the fashion world be out of hip the minute it was in hip. It just depends on who is wearing and how long the fashion is seen as cool by most of the general population.

People like Jennifer Anniston and Tyra Banks both have influences in fashion. One does in acting and the other does in modeling. This goes to show you that you can have a career in the fashion world and influence a different part of society. It also shows how others influence fashion and the different ways that trends are set where they may not be set before. Tyra has had fashion models looking up to her and people in general that want to be her. She makes billions in profits each year and is considered not just a model but one of the first super models of the run way. This woman created a path for many black women and many women in general.

In conclusion, many people look at fashion and just think a super model for Victoria Secret and that being a model is easy work when in all reality it is very hard work for every one involved. The fashion designer has to be in touch with people that want to sale her line. The photographer really has to know people to take pictures of and the magazines just tend to follow where ever the story takes them. So where ever you may be in fashion you still have to know your stuff to keep up with the latest trends.

Fashion Flashback: Best Trends of 2012

As a fashion college student, you know better than nearly anybody else how quickly trends in the fashion industry can come and go. One accessory might be all the rage in winter, only to become the biggest laughingstock of the spring. The ins and outs of the fashion industry are so hard to keep track of in fact, that the few designers, photographers, fashion magazine editors and stylists that make it big in the business, are often considered gifted for being able to so skillfully keep their fingers on the pulse of fashion. Even the most hard-working of all students attending fashion colleges will accept the fact that they will not necessarily make it that far up the fashion totem pole... However, despite that fact, one shouldn't let themself be fooled into thinking that fashion trend analyses are only for the industry's elite. Just to prove that fact, here's our short list of some of the year 2012's best fashion design trends.

From red carpets, to runways, to regular old street shoes, there was no shortage of platforms in the year 2012. In the world of high fashion, Italian designer Miuccia Prada sent her models down the runway in futuristic, socked space slippers, many standing on sky-high platforms. On city sidewalks all over, fashion school students rocked 1920's style oxfords with psychedelic platforms added for extra effect. Either way, there was surely no doubt about it; platform shoes were a defining footwear trend in 2012.

One thing's for sure about this last year in fashion: it's been full of flirtatious, feminine accents! For instance, peplum dresses, skirts, tops and jackets could be seen all over, paired with heels OR flats. Sheer, wide-knit sweaters and see-through lace tops were dressed up and down, and sky-high stilettos have never been more in style. Fresh-faced models have never looked so girly, and the streets proved that the trend had caught on all over the place.

The uber-feminine trend was not the only statement to magically materialize within the bounds of the fashion industry. This last year, the fashion-forward delighted in mixing it up by color-blocking, and mix-and-matching the brightest, boldest colors and prints. Leave it to the fashion industry to speed up the pace just when things look like they're getting boring...

Contributing to the futuristic fashion themes of the year 2012, was the theme of gender ambiguity. From perfectly-tailored pant suits and tuxedo blazers, to skirts for men, professional designers of all kinds and fashion design college kids alike experimented with this boundary-pushing, playful design trend.

As we say goodbye to 2012, we look forward to a whole new year full of cutting-edge fashion trends!

Fast Facts About Fast Fashion Supply Chain

A fast fashion supply chain is a type of fashion supply chain where you can get the latest clothing that follows the latest catwalk trends. This type of fashion is basically a term used by contemporary fashion retailers to cater to the needs of their clientele - the need to get hold of the latest fashionable clothing. It is the method of making new designs from catwalk to the stores in the fastest possible time.

Typically, the collections introduced in a fast fashion supply chain are based on the latest and most recent trends as presented at the Fashion Week. As you may already know, the Fashion Week is where almost all of the renowned designers showcase their new designs for the different seasons. Typically, these clothing are too expensive for regular buyers. Thus, fashion stores and chains such as Zara and H&M taught of making the trend available for the general public.

The philosophy of providing the catwalk trends in a quick manner and at an affordable price range is made possible by huge and popular retailers Zara and H&M (as mentioned) as well as Topshop and Peacocks, among others. These brands are patronized by many consumers worldwide. Even though its concept receives criticisms from time to time, a lot still recognize and consider this fashion type as a great innovation for the fashion industry.

Some Controversies Associated with Fast Fashion

Every fast fashion supply chain might have already received negative criticisms here and there. Some of them are laid down here. See if these criticisms are worth believing and losing sleep for.

Low cost clothing is normally produced without high quality.There are some groups that bring in the argument that clothes made under this fashion concept are made without efficient quality control. According to these groups, companies offering fast fashion clothing would do every possible manner to reduce on production costs. However, if you would take a closer look at it, these companies would rather not take the risk of compromising their brand's reputation by offering low quality clothing.

If you may notice, designer clothes are priced so highly because they are, basically, designer clothes. Buying designer clothes means buying the name. You can actually achieve the look assumed by the catwalk models without spending a lot by buying clothes from a fast fashion boutique.

The principle behind this type of fashion is not practical.Fast fashion has been associated with the concept of clothes swapping and disregarding. A lot of fashion enthusiasts would love to give their wardrobes a makeover whenever the seasons change. Thus, some of them would normally swap some of their clothes for new ones or just get rid of the old clothes altogether. After all, they are already out of season once the new fashion trends come. However, it does not necessarily mean that this fashion type advocates waste of resources and impracticality. It is of the buyer's prerogative to disregard his or her clothes and eventually, the fast fashion supply chain would not encourage their buyers to throw away a piece of clothing that holds their brand name.

Who's Hiring in Fashion? Hot Jobs You Can Land With a Fashion School Education

When one thinks of a career in the fashion industry, the job that most comes to mind is that of the fashion designer. But the fashion industry is broad and multi-faceted, with myriad job opportunities available. So even if you don't have an interest in starting your own fashion design label, you can still be an integral part of the industry. Take a look at the following jobs, and you'll see that depending on your particular interest and skills you've learned in fashion school, there is a perfect job in fashion for you.

Fashion Merchandiser - Do you see clothes in stores and think, "I know I can make that better"? The fashion merchandising professional spots trends and translates them into products that sell. He or she is responsible for product development from conceptual design, budgeting and production, to the final marketing of the product.

Buyer - If you love shopping and always seem to know trends before anyone else, a career as a buyer could be right for you. Responsible for maximizing sales and profitability, fashion buyers stay ahead of the curve on fashion trends as well as their target consumers' tastes so they can plan retail store inventories. Besides selecting merchandise, they are involved with the promotion and selling of the goods.

Brand Manager - Fashion companies are not just selling clothes, they are selling a brand. Brand managers create an image for their fashion line, and then develop unique and creative ways to present this image to the public. Fashion college courses in Merchandise Product Development are a great background to have for this career.

Trend Analyst - These professionals have a direct impact on fashion's future. Trend analysts shop for and research the latest trends and analyze their influence on future markets. They provide forward direction on color, style, and fabric to the merchandising team, who then incorporate the upcoming trends into new product lines.

Technical Designer - The all-important technical designer takes a fashion designer's idea and works with the factory to make that idea a reality. They determine the most efficient method of producing a garment to fit a particular market and price point, and are responsible for pattern making, size fitting, technical flat sketches and garment specifications. These are therefore some of the most important skills learned in any fashion institute.

Visual Design Director - When you walk into a store, your shopping experience is created by the Visual Design Director. This person develops visual merchandising presentation and store concepts that enhance the brand's image. The Director also determines visual merchandise directives for all the stores in the chain to make sure the vision of the store is carried out across all locations.

Textile Designer -This job is perfect for designers with a love for creating graphics and patterns. Textile designers develop designs for a variety of apparel and interior design markets, including printed, woven and knit fabrics.

Footwear Designer - If you believe that fashion is all about the shoes, you might consider a career in footwear design. Footwear designers travel to the hottest markets to research trends, attend trade shows, and find inspiration to create designs for a company or their own labels.

Costume Designer For those interested in the entertainment industry, costume designers create costumes used in film, television, or theater, overseeing everything from apparel and accessories to jewelry and wigs. They work with the director and production team to develop the right look for each project, whether it's set in the past, present or future.

Gen Art: A Fashion Organization That New Fashion Designers Need To Know About!

Are you a new fashion designer who is looking for new ways to develop and promote your fashion collection, while gaining exposure to some of the fashion industry's most respected movers and shakers? If so, you definitely should read on to learn more about this organization!

One of the most challenging aspects of becoming a fashion designer is having the right connections. As a new designer, it's key that you have access to fashion buyers, boutique owners, and amazing photographers to help you to launch your new fashion collections.

Gen Art is a popular arts organization that focuses on developing and showcasing the skills and talents of up & coming fashion designers, artists, musicians and film-makers. The organization provides new fashion designers with an opportunity to showcase their work to a credible audience of tastemakers & fashion industry leaders.

The management of Gen Art has recently decided to re-launch their "Fresh Faces in Fashion" Program, which is partially responsible for the rise of the careers of some of today's hottest young fashion designers, such as Zac Posen, Geren Ford, Rebecca Taylor, Vena Cava & Phillip Lim.

Gen Art has re-organized its organization and has big plans to help develop new fashion designers by providing them with the support required to show their fashion designs on the runway. Gen Art's "Fresh Faces in Fashion" Program will also teach designers how to build successful fashion lines and get product distribution, while providing priceless exposure to some of the biggest names in the fashion industry! The organization will soon be seeking designers to join their spring 2012 "Fresh Faces in Fashion" Program!

Elizabeth Shaffer, Gen Art's Co-President, stated that "We want to be able to introduce designers who may not be ready to show on the runway but are well on their way. We can provide guidance early on and get them out there. You can still sell and create signature pieces online and develop an online following before you're ready to show on the runway." The newly relaunched "Fresh Faces in Fashion" sounds like a perfect launching pad for new designers!

When the fashion program was initially introduced in 1995, social media was pretty much non-existent and online shopping was unheard of. With the "Fresh Faces in Fashion" program being re-launched, Gen Art will maximize social media usage and various e-commerce vehicles to aid in building the careers of the fashionistas that they decide to take under their wings.

Become a Fashion Designer With Creativity and Passion

To become a fashion designer, you must be a very creative person with an eye for style. Fashion designers are people who conceptualize and create outfits that clothing companies will sell to consumers. They follow current fashion trends and determine what people will consider stylish and fashionable.

Fashion designers often know that it is an interest of theirs at young ages. As children they liked to dress themselves and their toys in different outfits and liked to come up with new and interesting ways to wear and match different accessories. They also generally take an interest in fashion magazines and celebrity fashions at an early age as well. However, if you are interested in becoming a fashion designer and you have an eye for what looks good on people, there are many opportunities to get into the business.

As you would expect, in order to become a fashion designer, you must have a great interest in fashion trends and clothing. It is a good idea to follow fashion magazines and watch fashion shows to get ideas for new designs and trends. Try to determine what will be popular in the future and think of outfits that could fit these new trends.

If you don't already, it is a good idea to learn how to sew and make clothing. Though a professional designer is not usually required to create the clothes themselves, having a knowledge of how clothes are made will help in the design process. It is also good to have these skills in order to create basic prototypes of your design ideas so that you can more easily promote them.

As a fashion designer, one of your main jobs is to sketch the designs for your clothing ideas so others will know what your new outfit is intended to look like. A good fashion designer must be able to produce detailed and accurate designs for their clothing ideas. Part of this is having a knowledge of different cloths and materials, knowing how to draw accurate body proportions, as well as the ability to choose and mix colors.

If you do not know how to sketch designs properly or effectively, it may help to go to a design school or take design classes. Though a degree in fashion design is not required to find a job, it is extremely helpful because it lets potential employers know that you have a working knowledge of the industry as well as how to draft accurate designs. Many colleges and universities offer programs in fashion design and you can choose to take a two year or four year track.

Whether you decide to attend a school or not, be sure to keep a portfolio of the work you have done. When you apply for jobs, you should be able to produce a number of sample designs that you have come up with. This will give your clients an idea of your sense of style.

Do whatever you can to learn about the industry. Read magazines, talk to professionals, watch TV programs, and whatever else you can do. The more you know, the better chance you will have in achieving success as a fashion designer.

Latest Fashion - Know What Is Hot This Season

Fashion might be your passion or your profession might have brought you to the fashion industry. Whatever is the reason for you to get into world of international fashion, it's essential to find out latest fashion trends from all over the globe. The newbie always thinks that United States is the origin of most of the fashion trends but it is not. Italy or France would win the battle against United States when it comes to latest fashion. Paris fashion show 2011 is perfect example for that in which new trends where quite inspiring and innovative. For more information in latest trends, one can get lot of information from Fashion Magazines, Fashion Blogs, and Fashion week.

One question must be hitting your mind quite often as spring and summer is heading closer. What are latest fashion trends for this spring or summer? Light, bright, and cheerful dressing will be likely and enjoyable approach for this spring that officially arrives in March. To be more innovative, one can use his/her fashion ideas along with latest trends in fashion.

Latest Fashion Trends for This Spring/Summer

  • Androgynous: Classic tailored pants and stylish crisp pants with 'easy boyfriend jacket' and sleeves rolled up over shirt are perfect for Androgynous look. For person with heavy middle section, this look is perfect to camouflage that section. This look goes nicely on any place thus gives higher return for investment in latest fashion.
  • Transparent: Do you want to create romantic feminine statement or a sensual seductive one? Transparent items with see-through element in flesh nude tone will be perfect option. Crochet and Lace items or clothing made of fabric that has ability to transform to utterly fresh look in next summer.
  • Minimalist: Simple items made of natural fabric in neutral colors and soft lines are in demand this time around as they were over past few years. Collarless top or unstructured jacket combined with baggy pants and relaxed straight shirt could be perfect outfits for this season. Try this for fresh and uncluttered look.
  • Whites: Your wardrobe will be incomplete without elements of white clothing this season. Starting from head to toe, wear whites to look fresh all the time this summer. You can also use Bold and Fluorescent colored clothing as well along with whites.
  • Stripes: As the case with Paris Fashion Show 2011, Stripes are in demand this year. They are available in all directions, all colors combination, and all bandwidths. To update your look instantly, add one outfit with stripes in your wardrobe.
  • Denim and Baggy pants: To make definitive new style statement, use Denim or Baggy pant for your lower half. You can combine them with 'Chambray' shirts, Jeans Jackets, Capri leggings, and list goes on and on.
  • Accessories: Small new trends can made huge difference in your overall look. Bold colored mix, garden flower motifs, stripes, and the transparency trend goes well with light, bright, and trendy clothing. To pull whole new look all together, use pair of sandals as well as 'Lucite' bangles.

These latest fashion trends and ideas will certainly give you refreshing new look this season.

Today's Unique Fashion in Jewelry

Every era and every century brings new fashion in clothing, jewelry, products, and everyday living. The unique fashion of jewelry in today's fast paced and ever changing styles comes with elegant taste, shiny stones, curvy shapes, and of course the free shipping! Let's face it, in today's society brings the power of online selling. Fashion could not be at its best right now. The media plays its role, but woman and men have unique tastes and want to wear what represents them whether it is power, beauty, or just the statement that says hey, look at me! So what exactly makes today's unique fashion in jewelry so important? We will take a look at staying hip and stylish in today's era, websites and how they keep up with today's fashion, and the power behind unique fashion in today's era.

Jewelry has forever been a statement of power, but in today's modern era, jewelry is worn for fashion and presentation more than ever. Fashion has become the style that represents you as a person. Wearing unique fashion of today's world is one way of showing how "hip" and stylish you can be. Don't get me wrong, wearing older fashion jewelry shows style too, which is a whole different conversation. Staying hip and stylish is important to the younger generation. When they are trying to impress there secret crush or trying to stay "popular" in school wearing the right hip jewelry is extremely important, but what makes today's unique fashion hip? Well it's a combination between the media and our role models and what they wear and the fads that run through towns like untamed horses. Both ideas run very close but also can differ. Young children and teenagers pick up on hip and stylish new fads very quickly.

Humans have a basic instinct and a taste for fashion. As new generations become of age, new ideas and new tastes develop that can slightly change or drastically change the current style and fashion. Having a website that stays up to date with fashion and offers the best of the best is key and should be saved under your favorites. Websites that offer free shipping is also a perk that could influence where you shop. There are thousands and thousands of websites competing for the top search engine spot, but the one who gets that spot can influence today's unique fashion in jewelry. They can influence because when you search "today's fashion in jewelry" the top site will get the most views and pursue the viewer that the sites content is today's fashion. Websites that make it to the top of search engines obviously have value and traffic since they are ranked high, so in a sense those sites must know fashion and must be popular with returning customers.

The power behind today's unique fashion runs very thick with media influence, the internet, and what is hip/stylish. So how can today's fashion have power? The media shows what they portray as "hip and stylish" then the teenagers and children mimic this fashion and then that spreads a fad through that community. The parents and guardians notice and pick up on this fad and then start to purchase and order this new fashion of jewelry online and in retail stores. In the end, everyone is happy. The economy is running thoroughly, the children and teenagers are happy, and the parents and guardians are happy. The power of today's unique fashion influences everyone in some kind of way. People must pay attention to growing fads and new styles.

In conclusion, jewelry in today's era is competitive. The unique fashion that changes swiftly, can move economies and change the way people look. Three things that make today's unique fashion important is the younger generation and how they long for being hip and stylish, the online market and how it competes, and the power of modern fashion.

New York Fashion Week - Tempest In The Big Apple

For the many people involved in fashion, you may be wondering exactly what is New York fashion week? As it is, New York fashion week is a week long occasion that began on June 7th in the year 1993 and is supported currently by Olympus. Fashion week is frequently known as Olympus fashion week due to the fact that its current sponsor is Olympus; however in recent years past its was also known as Mercedes Benz fashion week because they were the sponsors at that time.

The venue for this occasion takes place in Bryant Part in New York City (located at the corner of forty-second and sixth streets). The which is eight acres in size is changed into an immense arena of fashion garnered in large tents.

Each separate gigantic tent has air conditioning and is separated into several areas. Each individual venue is separated into roughly twelve thousand square feet and has an integrated runway, accompanying guest seating, lighting sound, as well as area for back stage activities.

The venues are used by the designers to present their ongoing designs and work; they arrange and furnish the area in accordance with their own personal taste. The tent walls are outfitted with small booths, where products designated for promotion are being given away or sold. New York fashion week happens two times a year.

Designs for the forthcoming fall season are featured at the fashion week show which occurs the preceding February. Designs for the approaching spring are featured in the September fashion show.

So Your Thinking About Going to Fashion Week?

The typical attendees at fashion week are celebrities, journalists, fashion purchasers, and social types. Because this event is by invitation only, journalists who wish to go must seek accreditation prior to the event. You will very likely see just a few celebrities at each show.

It is clear, you will very likely notice fashion models in addition to numerous well known designers. If you happen to work your way into an invitation to the event, curiously there is not formal type of dress code to follow. The majority of individuals adopt the "anything goes" rule.

Although comfort does play a part, the primary goal of dressing up for fashion week is to establish a unique wardrobe that will give expression to your own individual sense of fashion. If your an individual who has a passion for design fashions, then a trip to fashion week is the event for you.

In addition to receiving the opportunity to witness all the up to date designs prior to then showing up in stores, you will have an incredible amount of fun as well. So even though it might appear to be next to impossible to receive an invitation to fashion week, never say never - if nothing else, at a minimum you can read about the exciting events at the show in the latest fashion trend magazine.

Fashionable and Stylish

Fashion and style. What are they? Do they always go together? Do they mean one and the same thing? It's hard to say. According to specialists in the field, fashion is actually a synonym for style or glamour. It has been agreed on the fact that fashion is a way of personal expression, and according to this criteria, one can be fashionable when he/she fits in this expression mode, or unfashionable, which would be the opposite. Fashion has manifestations in all the fields of human activity, that is when can speak about fashion when we refer to topics such as architecture, clothing, music, cosmetics, entertainment, forms of speech or even politics or technology. Anything in these fields can be described as being fashionable or not. When one speaks about materialism or trend s using the term 'fashion', it can be associated with a negative meaning.

Most people today perceive fashion as a term referring mostly to clothes. The beginnings of what we call fashion today did actually refer to clothes and they go back as far as the sixteenth century. However, it was only two centuries later that the real manifestations of fashion took place and it happened in Europe, among the wealthy upper classes. Fashion, just like any other manifestation of human activity, underwent major and continual changes, to the point where it is today, that is, being related to many fields of activities.
Of course, it would be unjustified to assume that fashion is the same all over the world. First of all, fashion differs from one society to another. Then, within a certain society, there are a lot of factors which may influence fashion such as age or generation, social class, profession or occupation. Even the geography of certain regions may bring about differences in fashion among the people of the same society.

But how does fashion change? Because we all know that constant change is what fashion is actually about. Everyone will agree that what is new now will soon become old, and the process goes both ways, that I what was once into fashion but is now considered to be old and obsolete will soon turn into something new again. Capitalism has brought along with its numerous good aspects some less appealing ones, such as waste. People buy things which are not necessary to them and consequently speed up the process of change as far as fashion is concerned. Young generations have much to do with this change in fashion as well, because they are always eager and willing to try interesting things, things that they haven't experienced before, something new to be more precise.

What made fashion so popular among people was actually the television. The moment fashion hit television, in the late 1960s and early 1970s, was the moment when the general population became interested in this aspect. And fashion magazines, websites or even fashion blogs were only one step away.

Pretty much in the same way as fashion, style can refer to may things, from painting, music, literature, web design to linguistics or manners of addressing people. The very definition of style describes the term as a fashionable manner of doing things, which points out that style and fashion are very closely related. Not everything that is considered fashionable will also be regarded as stylish, which is why people should avoid turning into a fashion victim, one of those persons who will wear just about anything that's seen as fashionable, no matter if it suits them or not, from hairstyles and piercing to clothes. It is true that today's world and the society we live in have set some rules in what fashion and style are concerned, but these don't always have to be strictly followed. Being a fashion victim will only turn you into one of the rest. If you want to be ahead at all times, what you must try is to define your own style and that will make you look your best.

Style Vs Fashion

The woman with "style" isn't necessarily the woman of fashion. In fact, the notion of fashion may be one of the biggest pitfalls of the woman who wants to achieve a unique personal style.

I certainly have nothing against fashion per se. In fact I love it. It's great fun to leaf through the pages of Vogue and Bazaar and Women's Wear Daily. It's marvelous to discover a new fashion look that suits me and the way I live. But I think it's a mistake to take Fashion (note that capital F) too seriously.

When an issue of vogue says, "This is the season for magenta ," make a note of it. But for heaven's sake, don't go out and invest heavily in magenta if it's not one of your favorite colors and you don't look well in it. Because as sure as I'm setting here writing this, one of the next few issues of vogue will come out strongly in favor of some other color. It's the same with everything else that falls under the heading of Fashion. You know it: the "in" thing this season will always be supplanted by next season's "in" thing.

It's not that the people in the fashion business are fickle or trying to put something over on the consumer. Not at all. It's just that the men and women who design, manufacture, and sell fashion are in the business to make money. (And why not? Isn't that what any business is all about? And isn't a healthy fashion industry part of a healthy national economy?) But they can't make money unless they can come up with a selection of new fashion looks each season--and create a demand for those new looks.

As for the men and women who edit the fashion publications, their job is to report on those new looks. For the most part, they do a marvelous job. I don't believe for one moment that the columnist are trying to con anyone; they're simply keeping people informed of the latest fashion news. It's up to us--to decide which of those new fashions we're going to buy and wear.

Unfortunately, to many women confuse style and dressing well with the idea of always being frist with the latest fashion looks.

You see this kind of woman practically everywhere, but she's especially visible at fashion shows. I don't go to many fashion shows myself, but when I do go to one, I often find myself paying lots more attention to the show going on in the audience than to the clothes on the runway.

A top-designer fashion show is almost guaranteed to bring out in droves the kind of women I'm tempted to call the "tragedies of fashion." They're a fascinating breed.

Let me give you an example. I went to a summer showing of fall collection. The show was scheduled to start at three in the afternoon. What with errands, and running my granddaughter around, I'd had a busy morning, and because the weather was very hot and muggy, I'd been rushing around town in a linen skirt, sleeveless T-shirt top, sandals, and no stockings (it was too hot for them anyway). I dropped my granddaughter off and went on to the show. I arrived just as it was about to begin, waved to a few familiar faces, settled down gratefully in the air-conditioned cool, and looked around.

It was 95 degrees outside on that sunny August afternoon, and would you believe that half the women in the audience were dressed for November? Many were wearing boots, sweaters, wool gaucho pants, or heavy midcalf skirts. I even recall seeing at least one fur suit.

Why. you may be wondering, were these otherwise attractive and sensible women wearing fall clothes on a blistering summer day? You can probably guess the answer. Because the clothes they were wearing were not just any fall clothes. They were "The new Fall Fashions, "probably ordered from other fashion shows held earlier in the season. Each woman was wearing her new purchases in the hope of being first with the latest.

Being first with the latest may give some women a great sense of satisfaction. The trouble is, it my also make them look ridiculous. And if there's one thing dressing with style isn't, it's ridiculous.

Fashion, as I said before, can be great fun. But the woman who follows fashion blindly, without ever stopping to think about whether this or that look is really right for her, will never be well dressed.

Being well dressed starts with using your head. Figuring out who you are. How you want to look. And then choosing your clothes accordingly. It means saying "yes" to some fashions and an emphatic "no" to others.

Fashion Merchandising 101

A career in fashion merchandising provides the flexibility of a wide variety of specialties. Here you will get a solid idea of the several career paths of a fashion merchandiser, the role he or she plays and how crucial that role is in the fashion industry.

First thing's first; a fashion merchandiser obviously has a good sense of style. She could easily see the next, hottest trends and her favorite activities probably involve arranging outfits, shopping for them and spending hours investigating blogs and magazines of fellow fashion lovers. In most cases, a fashion professional knows what people want and she makes certain to provide it to them in the best way possible.

When working in fashion, you will probably find yourself working in a department store, boutique or fashion house, and the like. Fashion merchandisers are one step ahead and they make sure that the store, boutique or fashion house is too. Not only does a fashion merchandiser have great fashion sense but they must be skilled in the areas of marketing and strategizing to increase product sales.

Must-have Skills in Fashion Merchandising

Presenting the product efficiently to the consumer is an important part of the field and requires the merchandiser to know the precise taste of the target group. Performing tasks like these require someone in fashion merchandising to have excellent verbal and nonverbal communication skills. While working in fashion, you must be able to communicate not merely with suppliers and manufacturers to carry out efficient transactions but also with consumers through visual displays and fashionable store selections. It's essential to know what the latest trends are in order to find out what products will be sold, the amount they should be purchased and sold for and how much profit the business will bring in. A fashion merchandiser with a large fashion house or large clothing manufacturer will typically specialize in one are such as women's clothing, shoes, men's clothing, etc. At times, this career will require a fashion merchandiser to travel to meet with supplier and manufacturers to execute transactions, have meetings and attend shows. This field revolves around long work hours, quick decision making, industry pressure and competition. Solely those with thick skin, strong organizational skills, excellent communication and determination will be successful in this field.

Fashion Merchandising is One of The Top Fashion Jobs

Numerous fashion graduates anticipate to get their dream job as soon as possible; understand that this will probably not be the case. You can definitely find yourself working in retail for some time or still looking for jobs months after graduating. One thing to consider is the probability of internships. This is especially true if you are considering working for big companies and places where they don't hire externally. For example, if your dream is to work for Vogue, working hard to get one of their internships is a major step to get your foot in the door. Interning for fashion designers and public relation firms are also ways to get experience. Consider, however, that a majority of these internships are not paid. Is this something that you can afford to do? Be wise.

Anything you have chosen to do in this field there are several paths you can take. If one doesn't work out you can always start to look at your other available choices. Remember, as stated before, it is a competitive field and only those that are determined and hard working get to the top positions.

Create a list of the types of things you would like to do in fashion merchandising and start the job hunt!

Making a Mark in the American Fashion Industry

The main center of the American fashion industry is believed to be New York where the Fashion Week was held in 2009 featuring all the renowned names in the field not only from America but from all over the world. Although New York is supposed to be the ultimate spot for showcasing the latest fashion trends, Los Angeles is not far behind as is evident from the numbers of fashion houses which have crept up in the city during the recent years. Thus, the American fashion industry of the new millennium operates mainly from these two centers unlike the past when cities like Miami and Chicago served as the centers for fashion designing.

It is true that the American fashion industry has earned a reputation for itself for being an arena in which cut-throat competition is a way of life even for every day survival. Therefore, apart from the necessary bit of luck, aspiring models and designers who truly wish to create a name for them in the American fashion industry must possess certain basic attributes as well as pre requisites which would enhance their chances of building a worthy career. One of the most important attributes in this regard is to possess confidence in combination with an out-going personality which would not only enable one to speak out boldly but would also increase one's chances of being noticed. Often described as flamboyant, a confident and indomitable personality is likely to make a mark and also reach places within the industry much sooner than others.

Fashion is about style and hence it is imperative for an aspiring fashion designer to be aware of the wide range of styles which are in keeping with the mind-set of the American people. Style is something which can be taught or learnt by an individual but is an inherent attribute which is honed by going through all the latest fashion magazines and understand the flexibility in clothing in terms of slim sizes and plus size clothing. At the same time, one must also be knowledgeable about the prominent fashion houses which dominate the American scenario at present so that a potential up-coming style can be easily spotted and capitalized upon.

As everyone related to the world of fashion must be aware of, it is not just the American fashion industry but the various fashion industries all over the world which now echo the sentiments of eco-friendly fashion in form of the 'Green Revolution'. In order to express sympathy as well as concern towards the ecological issues like global warming and preserving the natural habitat of our beloved planet, the fashion industry is now focused on encouraging eco-friendly apparel and cosmetics thereby encouraging the sensible use of natural resources. Hence, an aspiring fashion designer might as well be aware of this latest trend and chalk out a career path accordingly.

Of course, ambition and experience are mandatory ingredients for an individual who is desirous of making it big in the American fashion industry as ambition which is short of arrogance often leads to unprecedented and unimaginable opportunities while experience can provide one with the all-important direction in one's arsenal.

How To Become A Fashion Merchandiser

Many dream of entering into the glamour of a fashion career. Most dreams of such careers as fashion model or fashion designer. However a career in fashion merchandising can be very rewarding and self satisfying. It may not be easy to become a fashion merchandiser however with the right training and experience it can come about without much trouble for those who are willing to dedicate themselves to their career.

You might have a natural flair for being a fashion merchandiser. You will normally know if such a career is right for you. You may have felt it from a very young age as you have entered into dress shops or other clothing retail outlets. You have admired the way the clothes were put on display and respected the sales girl at the counter. Your friends may have admired your taste in clothing and frequently asked for your advice on what type of clothing they should wear.

If you are thinking of a career in fashion you might also want to think of ways in which you can be educated in the finer details of fashion merchandising. Often if you want to get into the high end of the market you may be expected to have a degree, diploma or at least a certificate to indicate that you have studied some of the more complex issues related to fashion merchandising.

From a perspective of fashion you might study areas of fashion designs, running a fashion boutique, textiles and the history of fashion. From a business perspective you might learn how to manage a business, including accounting, analyse market trends and how to make sales. You might even study human resources so that you might know how to recruit, train and manage your staff. Personal development courses will also be of interest and most beneficial in an area which concerns customer relations.

If you are taking fashion merchandising seriously you will want to keep up with the latest trends in the world of fashion. The world of fashion is in a constant state of change. Perhaps the most significant change over the last ten years is the introduction of the internet. Online marketing has become vital. Even those who do most of their work offline will normally need to know something of what is happening online. Many fashion gurus are now using the internet to assist them in their occupation. Indeed internet marketing has opened up a completely new world of how fashion is promoted and sold.

A career in fashion can open up many doors to other related occupations. One such occupation is that of being a webmaster. By webmaster it is meant that the owner promotes a website. It can be quite easy for you to set yourself up on a website as long as you make yourself aware and educated in emarketing. On the internet you can display your own products or you can become an affiliate marketer and promote other people's products. There can be a lot of satisfaction in setting up your own website and displaying your own range of products or products owned by those you represent.

To get started with fashion merchandising on the internet it is good to become aware of available resources. There are sites that can provide you with an online education, sites that can provide you with the necessary infrastructure and sites, which will enable you to promote your products online. You can even extend yourself from the internet to off line activities and promotions. There is a lot of variety and a lot of opportunity to extend yourself into a lucrative and satisfying online fashion merchandising career.

A Fashion Blog For Fashion Bloggers

Blogs have been around, almost since the establishment of the internet. From the beginnings, bloggers learned that fresh content could build a loyal following of visitors, which in turn meant, they could earn money from advertisers. Blog Hosting companies have made it fairly easy to start a blog. You simply sign up for a free blog and start typing your heart away. That's all fine and dandy, until the competition amongst bloggers heats up. How do you get your blog noticed amongst all those other bloggers out there?

Niche blogging communities are sprouting up across the web like FashionsBlogs.com, that specialize in niche market segments. FashionsBlogs.com offers free blog hosting to fashion bloggers, a unique "Fashion Oriented" url, fashion blogging tips and a community of fashion bloggers that share valuable information on the art of fashion blogging. What are the advantages and disadvantages of starting a blog at a niche blog hosting community or a mainstream blog hosting site like Wordpress, Typepad, blogger or blogspot?

Advantages of Niche blogging Communities

SEO- Your site will rank higher in your market segment.
For example: at FashionsBlogs.com you will have a unique URL like myfashionblog.fashionsblogs.com. Search engines will rank your blog higher when people are searching for fashion blogs than a site that has a url like myfashionblog.typepad.com

Social Networking- Build relationships with the movers and shakers in your industry

For Example: at Fashions Blogs you will be able to connect with other, high profile fashion bloggers and discuss tips and tricks of the trade.

Stand out from the crowd.

When people head to the niche blogging community they can search for specialties like: Celebrity fashion blog, Teen Fashion BLog, Womens fashion blog, Designer Fashion Blog and depending on the content of your unique fashion blog, your site will easily be found by potential new fans.

Custom Themes, Templates and Plugins

Useful tools are available like plugins that offer free access to royalty free fashion images. Fashion styled Blog templates are also available.

Disadvantage of Niche Blogging Communities

Not many around

There are not currently a lot of Niche blogging communities around. It is still a fairly new concept online.

Technical Support-
Since these emerging blogging communities are in the infancy stage, they may not have the resources to help you and resolve problems as fast as a larger company like Wordpress or Blogspot

Communities start small

when you join a Niche blogging community like Fashions Blogs, you may find there are only a couple of registered members. This is because they are still new sites and have yet to attract the vast quantity of members. Just like eBay started small, so do these Niche blogging communities.

A Look At The London School Of Fashion

What kind of passion do you have for fashion design? Is your style more traditional mainstream or do you like to think out of the box with an edgy style? Either way, the London School of Fashion (officially the London College of Fashion) could very well be the school for you. This well-known fashion school has an excellent reputation for producing top designers in shoe design, mens clothing, womens clothing and accessories. They also have top professionals in other areas of fashion such as fashion photography, fashion merchandising, fashion journalism, culture and communication, and many more.

As a fashion student at the London school of Fashion, you will learn pattern cutting, garment production, designing in both manual and digital formats, the history of fashion, etc. The school is equipped with various high tech machines that you don't find in most other schools. This gives students an opportunity to learn to use the latest machines that they would otherwise not have a chance to use until they were well established in the field of fashion design.

The school encourages thinking outside the box to stretch the limits of the students imaginations so the students have the chance to stretch their wings and be truly creative in design. This gives the students a real chance to explore and find their own unique niche while still giving them a good grounding in tradition design. You can dare to be different.

The tutors connected with the London School of Fashion are often successful working designers, so you have access to an invaluable resource here. Another extremely valuable resource is the work placement program where you get the chance to actually work in the field of design while you are still a student. This gives you experiences that will go a long way towards helping find a great placement after graduation in the exciting world of fashion and fashion design.

If fashion is your career choice, check out the courses at the London School of Fashion. Expect to work hard and be rewarded with the best possible education in the fashion industry. Whether you are more traditionally minded or lean to the edgy side of fashion design, the London School of Fashion is the best place to prepare for a most challenging and rewarding career in the fashion universe.

Making Bold Fashion Statements

Fashion can simply be understood as what is currently in vogue at a given time. Fashion encompasses clothing and the manner or style in which it is used. There are several styles that have been accepted as evergreen and there are those that go through phases of popularity and then drop into oblivion. When you talk of a person as fashionable or otherwise, it indicates how they carry themselves in the fashion that is prevalent at the time. While some are able to do a good job of it, others remain a bit awkward.

Fashion that has outgrown in popularity, but which is still considered acceptable at some levels is referred to as Retro fashion. This means that the trend can be altered to suit current fashion statements. Fashion is also used as a means of describing a person who may exude charm and charisma in the manner they conduct themselves.

Internationally, there are several cities that can be described as fashion capitals, where designers throng to flaunt their latest lines. The main fashion capitals of the world are New York, Paris, Tokyo, London and Milan of course. They are considered the primary international authorities on what is in and what is not for each fashion season. Besides these main centers, there are several cities like Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Sao Paulo, Melbourne and even Singapore among others that have extensive fashion weeks and are also well accepted internationally.

When you want to look fashionable its not about just buying what fashion trends dictate. Fact is that not all fashion trends suit everybody. You need to pick what you can carry off comfortable. Looking fashionable is about being comfortable in what you are wearing. Also when you go out shopping, looking at the right kind of fit for your body size is also an important factor.

Once you have settled on your outfit, accessorizing it is as important. This does not mean that you step out all color-coordinated. This is in fact the most common fashion faux pax ever committed. Accessorizing an outfit can be as simple as a strand of pearls with a little black dress or a golden purse with a red evening gown. The right kind of hat for a summer dress too can make all the difference to the fashion statement you want to make.

The one thing about fashion is that not always does it have to be about what is internationally dictated. You can create your own statement too.

The Advantages of Attending a Fashion Show

For some people a great time means having a party, then for others it is just being themselves and watching the latest movie or reading a book that they like. Even so, for others, there specific idea of having fun is going to a fashion show.

It is often found to be true that you might find yourself ending up being a fashion show addict after just one show. A fashion show is not just simply numerous hours of sitting and watching attractive woman walk down the catwalk in extreme outfits. It is a great deal more fun than that. You even have the opportunity to get a lot out of the show as well.

Latest News In Fashion

Clearly, if you go to a fashion show, you will get to view the latest fashions. This can assist you, even if you're not a fashion sellout. This can help you out by giving you an idea of what particular fashion is in at the moment. Even though you may not be particularly interested in what everyone is wearing, you might be inspired to update your wardrobe just a little bit more or find some idea for a fashion that is uniquely your own.

Additionally, a fashion show can provide good entertainment when you find that the latest fashion is, well, hideous. How much fun do you think it will be to have a good laugh with your family and friends about some model who appeared wearing a lion mask and a tail when you get back home?

Goodie Bags

Even though not all fashion shows provide them, some fashion shows give out goodie bags to their attendees. Who doesn't like free stuff? Even though you may not like all the things that goodie bag has in it, you can re-gifted at some later point to someone who you know will like it. The bigger and better the name of the fashion show, the bigger and better the goodie bag they will hand out.

Meeting People

Fashion shows typically end up being excellent social gatherings. First off, you might be able to make some new friends. You might realize that your new best friend was sitting right next to you at a fashion show admiring the same male or female model (as the case may be) that you were. Even better than that, you might meet some important people.

I am not just speaking about the beautiful models, fashion designers, or guest appearances by celebrities. I am referring to important people who could quite possibly shape your career. For example, if you've been trying to break into journalism. There might just be a newspaper editor reporting at the show. Making a social connection with them could give you a jump start into a possible job.

Going to a fashion show might not be your idea of fun or your 'cup of tea' as the saying goes. Nevertheless, everyone should at least go to one. You might find a new trend you would like to try out, meet someone that is life-changing, or even realized your newfound love of fashion.

If you end up not enjoying the show, you can always head back home and vow to never go to one again. Regardless, you'll have some type of funny story to share later in life and now you will not be able to say that you have never seen one before.

Going To Have a Fashion Photography Session?

Fashion photography. Not a lot of people have the chance to witness, much more experience, fashion photography sessions. And now it's your turn! Well, unless you're a professional fashion model or you have been regularly undergoing a ton of photoshoots in the past, chances are you're a bit concerned (worried, even) now that you are going to have your very own fashion photography session. Alas, you need not fret. There are simple and pretty easy to do tips for you to follow.

Here are some of those helpful reminders for you to remember now that you are going to have your very own fashion photography session.

1. Get to know your photographer. It pays to build some kind of rapport with your fashion photographer. You can either visit his studio or you can invite him for coffee or a quick snack before the fashion photography session. Have a casual chat with your fashion photographer. Know what he likes and what he envisions your photo shoot to be. This way, not only will you know beforehand the do's and don'ts during your fashion photography session but you will also get to know your photographer more. You will know his work experience, his previous clients, his past photo shoots and even a bit of his personality. Who knows - that fashion photography session may just be the first of many!

2. It pays to feel relaxed. Nothing beats feeling comfortable and relaxed so that you would end up looking your best in front of the camera. So exactly how do you do this? Get a lot of sleep before the fashion photography session. Drink lots of water, drink your vitamins, play some of your favorite songs and maybe even sing a few tunes. Do things that will make you feel at ease. Some professional models even vouch that calling a very good friend and sharing a laugh or a joke before a fashion shoot can help them feel relaxed. Also, don't forget to ask your fashion photographer for pieces of advice on how to build a relaxed, comfy atmosphere during the fashion photography session. Who knows - your fashion photographer may even want you to put your favorite songs on full blast during the shoot!

3. If you want specific shots taken or if you have a specific style of photography in mind, do share this with your fashion photographer. It's best that he already knows what you prefer from the get-go. This will help avoid possible misunderstanding or confusion between the two of you. If you have pictures that can help shape or define your preferred look or outcome, do share these with your photographer. These pictures may be those that you came across with over the web or in magazines. Now if you aren't sure, though, of what you like, ask your fashion photographer if he has pictures of his previous fashion photography clients that you can check. Alternatively, you may want to peruse his portfolio and see if any of his previous works strike you.

4. Arm yourself with the right pieces of clothing, shoes, accessories and make-up for you to use during your photo shoot. If you can bring someone like a personal assistant or even a hairdresser, hairstylist or a make-up artist with you at the set, the better. Remember, you need not bring your entire closet to the set. Just bring the right style and the most appropriate clothes for the shoot. Since it's a fashion photography session, it's advisable to bring clothes that flatter your figure, party clothes, gowns and the like. It's best if you ask your fashion photographer beforehand if he has any suggestions as to which types of clothes to bring. Usually, 5 sets of clothes are more than enough. As for accessories, bring a lot of these! In fact, the rule of thumb during fashion photography sessions is - there can never be too many accessories! Accessories such as bangles, funky earrings, bib necklaces and fancy scarves can always liven up any outfit. Shoes, hair and make-up should also be appropriate and of course, stylish. If you can do your hairstyle and make-up on your own, remember to spice this up for the shoot and also remember to retouch. It is still most highly recommended, though, to bring your own hairstylist and make-up artist in order to avoid delays and other hassles.

5. Trust your fashion photographer. Remind yourself that he knows what he's doing and that he's a professional at work. So just relax, feel beautiful and let your photographer do his magic!

Read further for more fashion photography questions, reviews and our professional portfolio.

Mens Fashion Review: A Glimpse Into Past Decades

Men's fashion over the past few decades has changed jus as much as women's fashion; fashion changes. Fashion is not just what clothes you wear, but how you wear them-from head to toe, so that includes your hair, and a great example of how fashion has changed is hairstyles: in the early start of the new millennium, from around the year 2000 to about 2005, spiky hair with an excessive amount of gel was the big thing-not anymore. Things change.

Fashion Itself

A review of men's fashion over the past few decades is not meant to explain what's hot and what's not. Instead, a review of men's fashion over the past few decades is to explain that yes, there have been changes, and no, spiky hair is dead. Fashion comes and goes. Just look at Miley Cirus, who has started bringing back the 80's look for preteens through zebra stripes, bright and loud colors, and everything else that screams the 80's.

For men, Johnny Depp brought back the fedora in recent years. Shortly afterwards, fedoras were the new big thing. Now, hats in general are in, and fedoras can seem pretentious; men's fashion over the past few decades has changed so rapidly that if you attempt to look fashionable, such as wearing a fedora, there is a chance you'll look like a dork trying too hard.

The Real Change in Men's Fashion Over the Past Few Decades

Fashion is ever changing. Fashion is also incredibly subjective. Maybe you don't wear hats; than Depp did nothing to contribute to your wardrobe. So what's the point? It's not whether you are wearing a hat or not, it's the fact that there's a high chance you know hats are in, and maybe more specifically the fedora, and maybe still that it came from Johhny Depp the celebrity.

What has really changed in over the past few decades in men's fashion is the attitude. Men are being more aware of the fact that fashion is out there, and that fashion might even be for them. Fifty years ago, fashion was all about respect and function-a suit is a suit is a suit, so don't wear any feminine, "panzy" ties or shirts with it; wear a tuxedo shirt only when wearing a tuxedo suit over it; a dress shirt is too formal to go with jeans. Men are expressing themselves more than ever through fashion, be it through fedoras, a loud 80's look through a splash of color, the infamous "emo" craze with black on black on black with black boots and accents of grey, or something in between.

However, because of the change in men's fashion over the past few decades is not all about the clothes you wear but the fact that you are more aware, men are becoming much more self-conscious. A few years ago around 2005, a craze called metrosexualism came to be. To be metrosexual, a man must be worried about manscaping. What are all these words? Metrosexual refers to a straight guy looking so aesthetically pleasing, often through manscaping-the act of excessively shaving, permming, or anything else dealing with hygienic aesthetics involving hair, such as waxing one's face, one's chest, one's arms, one's family jewels, anything else, or a combination to the point that appointments for such grooming is routine-that jokingly puts to question whether a man is straight or homosexual. In other words, men are more aware of how they look. The New York times even suggested that fashion is always changing, but what has really changed in men's fashion over the past few decades is the fact that are questioning whether they look good, and if not, how to change that.

All in all, men's fashion is never the same twice, unless you count a trendy post-modern approach called "retro." However, the fact that you're reading this means you probably are wondering whether the fashion choices you've chosen are correct. Worried about the decorum of your appearance? Should you wear this with that, or that with this, or what's hot and what's not? So, you're question what to wear, and that is what has changed over the past few decades in men's fashion more than men's fashion itself.