Monday, June 20, 2011

Social Shopping

On line fashion retailing is changing the way the fashion industry is responding to consumers.

From Mashable 20/06/2011
"In an effort to drive deeper engagement between designers and those who purchase their clothes and accessories, a mix of established and lesser-known brands are now giving consumers opportunities to choose what gets produced and, in some cases, even what gets designed. The result is both a more engaged shopper and less waste as manufacturers and retailers are better able to estimate demand before garments are produced."

"Burberry is following the lead of startups such as Blank Label (pictured above) and Gemvara, which allow customers to choose between patterns, materials and other details in step-by-step web apps to create “one of a kind” apparel and accessories. Later this year, Burberry will let customers design their own trench coats."

Q1. What aspects of social networking are used?
Q2. What advantages has this over traditional shop retailing?
Q3. Does 'crowd sourcing' compromise 'artistic integrity'?