Men's fashion will not be ignored

I came across an article today and it posed the question does the menswear industry matter? I was intrigued an thought I would ask you all the same. Without a doubt menswear plays a vital part in fashion but how vital do you believe it is to the everyday man. In 2010 12.2 percent of mensaid they were interested in the newest tends which now has raised to 14.8 percent. Personally I believe it is imperative for a man to be dressed nicely and can make a man be perceived in a better way. Stores shopped: Department stores and specialty stores are the two dominant men’s wear retailers. These store selections should come as no surprise considering many men’s garments require alterations. Department stores have long cornered the market for the men’s wear industry sales. With 43.8% of the consumers patronizing department stores, companies such as Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus keep the men’s alteration department in full swing. Yet the increased patronage of men’s specialty stores should not be ignored. Between 2010 and 2011, consumer patronage of specialty stores jumped from 17% to 19.8%. This trend may be based on a desire for a more personalized shopping environment, more specialized customer service, or more focused brands.

I can understand the rising percentage of men patronizing specialty stores. Some men shopping in department stores look (a) terrified, (b) dazed or (c) hopeless, understanding that they are trapped for the next four hours. Perhaps a specialty store environment provides the male shopper with an escape clause; he has the feeling that he can shop for the necessary clothing and leave the building within 30 minutes.

Clothing purchased: The casualization of the consumer’s lifestyle over the past few decades is apparent in activities, clothing selections, and clothing worn to various events. Results of this survey reveal the consumer’s apparel purchases will focus on more on their casual lifestyle. Whereas 7% of the sample purchased more dress clothing in 2010, only 6.3% planned to make the same purchases in 2011. In 2010 4.2% bought more casual clothing; this percent rose to 7.9% in 2011.

This finding came as no surprise. This is not the era of F. Scott Fitzgerald where navy blazers and white pants were worn as casual apparel. Instead, Tommy Bahama Hawaiian shirts, Ralph Lauren polo shirts and khaki trousers fit nicely on the golf course, by the pool, or grilling burgers at a friend’s house.

Price: The consumers’ surveyed reported a household income of $100,000 or more. Despite this healthy income, they typically purchased clothing on sale (59.2% in 2011). This was no surprise given the current economic climate. Immediate needs such as food, clothing for the children, gas and household products are given first priority over paying full price for clothing.

Uggs for men

Ok so I know we all know what Uggs are if I'm not mistaken. They are fur lined one of a kind boots from Australia and were only for women at one point. Shortly after the companys popularity rose they released a men's line of boots. Last year alot of guys were not receptive to the line and since then, Ugg has re vamped the boots. This year I hear that the company more than anything, is targeting the male clientele. What are your thoughts on this guys? Would you wear Uggs? Have you seen the new collection for men? Let me know

Versace for H&M

Introducing Versace for H&M! Fashionista! Get ready, Versace for H&M is almost here. The collection will hit store November 17. Their collection ranges for women, men and home. Donatella delivers many choices of Versace iconic dresses — think famous prints like Greek motifs and palm and optical prints, patent leather details, Grecian button embellishment. To complete your Versace-girl look, H&M brings accessories that include a high-heeled lace boot and studded suede high-heeled sandals along with studded leather bags and velvet bags.

Winter 2011

So what’s in store for the seasons for men and women? Seventies fashion remains high on the list of carry-over trends, taking with it the likes of flares and wide-leg pants; while on the tough side, biker and punk follow through to the new season.Relaxed tailoring
For so long it’s been all about slim and skinny cuts for men. When fall 2011′s fashions roll along, that won’t be the case. Skinny won’t be out, but something else is certainly in.

valentino opens new mens store in asia

Valentino unveiled its first standalone men’s boutique in Asia in Hong Kong last week. The 2,116-square-foot store, with floors of black and white marble and wood, occupies a space in the basement. The Grand Opening celebration was held on 22 September with special guest Huang Xiao Ming, joint by Ms Fala Chen, Mr Him Law, Jocelyn Luko, Anthony Sandstrom and other socialites at the opening ceremony. It is the first boutique of its kind in Asia.

GAP closings

So I have just been informed that GAP stores worldwide have reported very low sales and the company has not doe well this year at all. As a result there have been about 200 Gap stores closed and will be opening new stores in china in hopes of regaining business.

A new plus size line!

We all remember the Tom boyish and painfully funny role new actress Melissa McCarthy played in bridesmaids right? I know I do but it turns out that she couldn't be farther from her character on bridesmaids. Melissa McCarthy 41, has plans to launch a us size line soon. The mother of two co designed her Emmy gown actually studied fashion in college. She says in US weekly "it's hard when your fuller figured and want to look cool."