Sunday, February 28, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
J.Crew Goes Global via Net-a-Porter
This week, American retailer J.Crew announced that come May, it will begin global distribution via a partnership with Net-a-Porter, a luxury e-commerce site. Prior to that, J.Crew has been available only in the U.S. and Japan; now, as the company jumps the line to the wholesale side with the platform of Net-a-Porter, consumers in 170 countries around the world can now shop J.Crew. The site will not only feature Net-a-Porter's buyers' picks from J.Crew's collection, but also an array of exclusives designed just for the site. Net-a-Porter founder Natalie Messenet said of the deal, "The days of geographical barriers are over. Consumers are seeing J.Crew in all the fashion magazines mixed in with designer labels."
When I read the headline, I was beaming. It's a truly brilliant business partnership. Many people do not realize how difficult global distribution is to achieve. The expenses involved are countless -- PPE expenses for distribution centers, shipping costs and duties, cost of labor, etc. It may not make sense for a company to invest the money to extend their distribution beyond its native country -- the business potential overseas might not be enough to allow the company to realize economies of scale. I can think of many global brands with immense presences in the shops of international retailers that still cannot handle a global distribution on their own end through the e-comm channel (my company comes to mind).
However, a strategic alliance like that of J.Crew and Net-a-Porter could be just the key. Business partnerships are all about synergies and competencies. What can J.Crew get from Net-a-Porter? What can Net-a-Porter get from J.Crew? To state the obvious, by tapping into Net-a-Porter's resources and its existing distribution network, J.Crew can now hit markets across all continents. But beyond that, it is probably going to quadruple its brand equity by increasing its international exposure. Now, it can transform from American lifestyle brand into a global lifestyle brand for customers seeking luxury and "classics with a twist" everywhere. And even the mere association with Net-a-Porter is enough to elevate its brand; the site is one of the leading e-tailers of luxe goods. It has an existing reputation as the best of the best. A company that can convince Isabel Marant (a designer known eminently for being so uber-exclusive in her wholesale distribution that you might never come across her line in a store) to SELL ONLINE? This news rocked the fashion world like you couldn't believe. A company that could do that -- well, they must be good.
Back to competencies - Having its hand dipped in the international pool is also a great way to lessen risk against an adverse economy at home. After a bloody battle with the American recession, many retailers have looked into joining booming markets overseas for financial savior. One of the reasons (perhaps most important) that my company succeeds is because of its presence overseas; it is in fact a much, much bigger brand globally than it is domestically. So when our sales here are subpar (well, we're hitting plan, but just barely), we're still winning the big race because of our activity overseas.
Now -- what can Net-a-Porter get from J.Crew? Well to start, it garners the patronage of J.Crew fans around the globe -- many of whom might not shop Net-a-Porter otherwise. Though it still has a luxe aesthetic, J.Crew undoubtedly occupies a lower price point than most of Net-a-Porter brands. And price aside, its products are great VALUE. So for value-seeking customers who want luxury but don't want to shell out $625 for a straw L'Wren Scott hat (wtf? who would?), they could turn to J.Crew for a hat just as adorable, just as trend-right, just as expensive looking, but for a friendlier price.
Next, we know that Net-a-Porter plans to offer J.Crew exclusives. This is smart on two accounts. First, your international customer is not entirely the same as your U.S. customer. While some trends are indeed global, others aren't. I heard J.Crew will develop exclusive colorways of existing styles for Net-a-Porter. This is a great, easy (from the design/merch standpoint) and fairly inexpensive way to tailor to the international customer. But on top of that -- I'm sure Net-a-Porter is well aware that J.Crew isn't just a clothing line. It's a lifestyle brand, and one that its customers feel a deep affinity to. I speak from experience -- you don't just like J.Crew; you LOVE J.Crew. You want everything, and you want it in two colors. So not only will Net-a-Porter attract clicks from J.Crew fans abroad, but it will still draw in domestic shoppers who want the exclusives.
The whole thing is genius, really. I couldn't have imagined a better partnership. Can't wait to see how the two companies roll it out in May -- and what the international reaction will be like.
When I read the headline, I was beaming. It's a truly brilliant business partnership. Many people do not realize how difficult global distribution is to achieve. The expenses involved are countless -- PPE expenses for distribution centers, shipping costs and duties, cost of labor, etc. It may not make sense for a company to invest the money to extend their distribution beyond its native country -- the business potential overseas might not be enough to allow the company to realize economies of scale. I can think of many global brands with immense presences in the shops of international retailers that still cannot handle a global distribution on their own end through the e-comm channel (my company comes to mind).
However, a strategic alliance like that of J.Crew and Net-a-Porter could be just the key. Business partnerships are all about synergies and competencies. What can J.Crew get from Net-a-Porter? What can Net-a-Porter get from J.Crew? To state the obvious, by tapping into Net-a-Porter's resources and its existing distribution network, J.Crew can now hit markets across all continents. But beyond that, it is probably going to quadruple its brand equity by increasing its international exposure. Now, it can transform from American lifestyle brand into a global lifestyle brand for customers seeking luxury and "classics with a twist" everywhere. And even the mere association with Net-a-Porter is enough to elevate its brand; the site is one of the leading e-tailers of luxe goods. It has an existing reputation as the best of the best. A company that can convince Isabel Marant (a designer known eminently for being so uber-exclusive in her wholesale distribution that you might never come across her line in a store) to SELL ONLINE? This news rocked the fashion world like you couldn't believe. A company that could do that -- well, they must be good.
Back to competencies - Having its hand dipped in the international pool is also a great way to lessen risk against an adverse economy at home. After a bloody battle with the American recession, many retailers have looked into joining booming markets overseas for financial savior. One of the reasons (perhaps most important) that my company succeeds is because of its presence overseas; it is in fact a much, much bigger brand globally than it is domestically. So when our sales here are subpar (well, we're hitting plan, but just barely), we're still winning the big race because of our activity overseas.
Now -- what can Net-a-Porter get from J.Crew? Well to start, it garners the patronage of J.Crew fans around the globe -- many of whom might not shop Net-a-Porter otherwise. Though it still has a luxe aesthetic, J.Crew undoubtedly occupies a lower price point than most of Net-a-Porter brands. And price aside, its products are great VALUE. So for value-seeking customers who want luxury but don't want to shell out $625 for a straw L'Wren Scott hat (wtf? who would?), they could turn to J.Crew for a hat just as adorable, just as trend-right, just as expensive looking, but for a friendlier price.
Next, we know that Net-a-Porter plans to offer J.Crew exclusives. This is smart on two accounts. First, your international customer is not entirely the same as your U.S. customer. While some trends are indeed global, others aren't. I heard J.Crew will develop exclusive colorways of existing styles for Net-a-Porter. This is a great, easy (from the design/merch standpoint) and fairly inexpensive way to tailor to the international customer. But on top of that -- I'm sure Net-a-Porter is well aware that J.Crew isn't just a clothing line. It's a lifestyle brand, and one that its customers feel a deep affinity to. I speak from experience -- you don't just like J.Crew; you LOVE J.Crew. You want everything, and you want it in two colors. So not only will Net-a-Porter attract clicks from J.Crew fans abroad, but it will still draw in domestic shoppers who want the exclusives.
The whole thing is genius, really. I couldn't have imagined a better partnership. Can't wait to see how the two companies roll it out in May -- and what the international reaction will be like.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
On the Web
As an avid online shopper, I spend a majority….most….of my spare time surfing the web for deals, fresh designers, and new sites. While e-boutiques like ShopBop and Revolve will always be my go-tos, I absolutely love finding below-the-radar shops and sites. These hidden treasures sometimes house the best of the best: up and coming labels, or simply adorable finds that you can't find anywhere else.
And that is precisely why I love Spool No. 72. The site offers casual apparel and accessories that are easy to throw on and go. The look is very reminescent of Anthropologie -- feminine without being prissy, laid back without being basic or boring. For knitwear fans, the site has a great assortment of chunky knits -- unfortunately, most are now out of stock (there is still 1 left of this vest though!)-- but we'll certainly keep this place in mind come next fall.
For now, though, I’m particularly loving the spring assortment – light, airy wovens with pretty embroidery for a hippie, boho-chic vibe. I also LOVE this “Quarter Horse” silk blouse. Unfortunately, only size L is in stock but I was informed by the site’s team that they will be re-stocking inventory AND introducing new spring items early next month. I’ll be checking the site everyday until then…
*Photos courtesy of SpoolNo72.com
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
NYFW
So after my previous rambling about Siriano's lack of coherence, I decided that I am a HUGE proponent of the presentation over the show. Why not? You get a better (and longer) look at the clothes, you can take your time to browse and take photographs, and best of all, the set pulls everything together. It can take a fragmented collection and pull it together into one snapshot so the person can walk away from the presentation with an idea of what it all was supposed to mean. I guess I'm talking mostly about the Alexa Chung for Madewell presentation. I know all of you must have left thinking the same things I was: 1. The Essence of Alexa. 2. I must have everything in that collection, and NOW. It felt like everything she wanted you to feel: like you were looking at cool, effortlessly chic girls, like the kinds in rock bands, or the kinds that hang out backstage at rock shows. Or the artsy Parisian girl who, I don't know, drinks too much coffee and sketches people in the park. Everything was quirky, and cute, and memorable. And the best part ....AFFORDABLE!
*Photos courtesy of Refinery29
*Photos courtesy of Refinery29
NYFW
I know it's late, but prepping for market week leaves me little time to do anything else but work and sleep. I've been in such a daze trying to keep up with the beat of the latest coverage to hit the surface that I haven't actually sat down and reflected on what we've seen these past few days.. I guess I'll try to do that now.
Last Friday, I had the opportunity to attend the Christian Siriano show at the Promenade tent. The winner of the fourth season of Project Runway, Siriano has shown 4 collections to date. The aesthetic of his previous collections is undeniably chic, the clothes well-tailored for a strong, sophisticated woman. Siriano enjoys mixing materials and textures, and infusing pop colors into an otherwise neutral palette.
The messages of his Fall 2010 line were no different; models strolled the runway in structured suits with defined shoulders and nipped in waists. The most notable one featured a beautifully pebbled leather jacket paired with a wool skirt.
The first few looks of his collection were dedicated to outerwear; in truth, I wasn't crazy about them. The chevron coats and jackets, though well cut and flattering, would have been better in just about any other print....
I did, however, love the sheath dresses he did, including this metallic tweed one.
Metallics were a reoccuring theme in the show, done in a range of materials including tweed, brocade, and silk chiffon, and incorporated into dark, mostly black outfits to add gleam. While the first few handfuls of looks were done in black and gray, the second half of the show gave way to gorgeous, satin and silk chiffon gowns in deep hues - slate, fuschia, royal blue and wine. I particularly loved this royal blue one shouldered dress:
The crowd went nuts for this final number:
Each of the 36 looks in his line demonstrated Siriano's craftsmanship; however, the collection lacked coherence. The first half of the show might as well have been a separate entity from the second half; it just didn't seem to mesh. Outerwear in masculine chevron in dreary grays, and then ruffled, hot pink gowns? Siriano failed to communicate a single, unified message. Though he's certainly got talent, it is clear he is still a neophyte with room to improve in his future collections. Yet, given that he's only 24, I GUESS I could cut him some slack...
*Photos courtesy of NYMag
Last Friday, I had the opportunity to attend the Christian Siriano show at the Promenade tent. The winner of the fourth season of Project Runway, Siriano has shown 4 collections to date. The aesthetic of his previous collections is undeniably chic, the clothes well-tailored for a strong, sophisticated woman. Siriano enjoys mixing materials and textures, and infusing pop colors into an otherwise neutral palette.
The messages of his Fall 2010 line were no different; models strolled the runway in structured suits with defined shoulders and nipped in waists. The most notable one featured a beautifully pebbled leather jacket paired with a wool skirt.
The first few looks of his collection were dedicated to outerwear; in truth, I wasn't crazy about them. The chevron coats and jackets, though well cut and flattering, would have been better in just about any other print....
I did, however, love the sheath dresses he did, including this metallic tweed one.
Metallics were a reoccuring theme in the show, done in a range of materials including tweed, brocade, and silk chiffon, and incorporated into dark, mostly black outfits to add gleam. While the first few handfuls of looks were done in black and gray, the second half of the show gave way to gorgeous, satin and silk chiffon gowns in deep hues - slate, fuschia, royal blue and wine. I particularly loved this royal blue one shouldered dress:
The crowd went nuts for this final number:
Each of the 36 looks in his line demonstrated Siriano's craftsmanship; however, the collection lacked coherence. The first half of the show might as well have been a separate entity from the second half; it just didn't seem to mesh. Outerwear in masculine chevron in dreary grays, and then ruffled, hot pink gowns? Siriano failed to communicate a single, unified message. Though he's certainly got talent, it is clear he is still a neophyte with room to improve in his future collections. Yet, given that he's only 24, I GUESS I could cut him some slack...
*Photos courtesy of NYMag
Thursday, February 11, 2010
McQueen, Dead at 40
Just heard -- Alexander McQueen found dead in his London apartment. No details yet but reports are saying he took his own life.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Copycats
Christian Audigier, the man behind Ed Hardy (....) has taken Marc Jacobs' charming Tate tote and painted one of those weird Chinese goldfish-amidst-flowing-water images across...the entire thing. Essentially, it looks like poop on a stick. Poop on a stick, and Marcs' bag. Anyway, MJ doesnot want shoppers confusing his designs with poop on a stick (not that anyone would, but imagine the damage to his brand equity if someone actually does..) so he is now sueing Christian Audigier for trade dress and trademark infringement. The trademark infringement would be for the scrambled letter trademark, and the trade dress for the remaining characteristics: shape, size, color, etc.
While I don't think it was entirely necessary to take it to this point (you'd have to be a real idiot to think MJ would actually plaster a goldfish on a bag, no?), I hate Ed Hardy and everything it stands for, so....team Marc.
*Photo courtesy of nymag.com
While I don't think it was entirely necessary to take it to this point (you'd have to be a real idiot to think MJ would actually plaster a goldfish on a bag, no?), I hate Ed Hardy and everything it stands for, so....team Marc.
*Photo courtesy of nymag.com
Deals and Steals
ITS NOT TOO LATE..
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"BUYMOR40D" for $40 off 4 styles
Free shipping for orders over $75.
"BUYMOR20D" for $20 off 2 styles
"BUYMOR30D" for $30 off 3 styles
"BUYMOR40D" for $40 off 4 styles
Free shipping for orders over $75.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Line to Love
L'agence, the brainchild of famed agent Margaret Maldonado and her elite team of stylists, is one of the most notable labels to surface in recent years. After years of dressing Hollywood's finest (Nicole Richie, Christina Aguilera, Heidi Klum), Maldonado and her crew have collaborated on a contemporary line that captures today's hottest looks made popular by their clientele.
Where to begin? Characterized by slouchy silhouettes, a modest color palette, and a range of updated basics, the line boasts that easy, effortless chic aesthetic that everyone strives to achieve, yet somehow, unexplicably, is so difficult to attain. I attribute this quality to the fact that the line is the spawn of several stylists rather than one designer. While designers birth the vision, it is often the stylists who give life to that vision, and extract it from the runway or the pages of a magazine onto the street for everyday wear.
The label's Spring 2010 collection has just surfaced at Ron Herman and I have to say, it fails to disappoint. The easy, laid-back styles in light, airy fabrics and blacks, white and grays (and bubblegum pink as a pop color!) can act as standalone looks or great layering pieces.
My favorites of the collection:
The print here reminds me of the C&C California alligator print jersey top, only better because its in silk...and I can never resist silk tie dye.
Amazingly done. A bit more modest than the A.Wang hole-y sweaters but still fashion-forward.
Perfectly styled. A simple top spiced up with a dramatic v and studded vest, a carryover of one of FW09's biggest trends.
Where to begin? Characterized by slouchy silhouettes, a modest color palette, and a range of updated basics, the line boasts that easy, effortless chic aesthetic that everyone strives to achieve, yet somehow, unexplicably, is so difficult to attain. I attribute this quality to the fact that the line is the spawn of several stylists rather than one designer. While designers birth the vision, it is often the stylists who give life to that vision, and extract it from the runway or the pages of a magazine onto the street for everyday wear.
The label's Spring 2010 collection has just surfaced at Ron Herman and I have to say, it fails to disappoint. The easy, laid-back styles in light, airy fabrics and blacks, white and grays (and bubblegum pink as a pop color!) can act as standalone looks or great layering pieces.
My favorites of the collection:
The print here reminds me of the C&C California alligator print jersey top, only better because its in silk...and I can never resist silk tie dye.
Amazingly done. A bit more modest than the A.Wang hole-y sweaters but still fashion-forward.
Perfectly styled. A simple top spiced up with a dramatic v and studded vest, a carryover of one of FW09's biggest trends.
*Photos courtesy of RonHerman.com
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