When the Latest Fashion isn't Really Fashionable

In our society of high technology, grand science, break through medicine, cars that are truly art, and fashion that is beyond amazing, we are mesmerized by the shiny objects before us on a daily basis.  But what happens when we see fashion that isn't so fashionable.

The thought is that everything that is designed and produced in mass production is of the latest trends and most desired styles.  So how is it that end consumers get it so wrong.  Is it possible, when customers go to a store filled with the latest styles can still buy anything off the rack and walk out looking like a hot mess?  If it is, and yes, it is; the fashion industry has a lot to rethink.

Billions are spent every year from retailers, to restock the shelves and racks of the latest trends and best styles of the season.  Thousands of designs hit the racks for a single season, and consumers pull these designs off the rack to build, supplement and tailor their wardrobes.

Each day we pass any individual on the street and they are wearing a single outfit from these vary racks. They save their favorite pieces, and upgrade with the latest trends.  Some have the highest end garments to be found in their local.

Why  is it that every day on those same streets you can find a group of individuals who look as though someone instructed them on the art of the worst dressed list.  Why do some individuals, even the ones who know a great deal about fashion, still end up looking like they were dragged into a closet tornado and was tossed out into the world with something random and awkward on.

In the end, whom are really to blame?  The designers work with the latest information and the retailers select the best styles and colors for the season.  Many designers customize their own colors and prints just for their collections.  So how is it possible to end up with poor choices left on the racks for consumers?

I believe the answer is in the hands of the retailers.  Big box stores like Macy's, Dillards, and JcPenny's carry as many as one hundred and sometime more different designers each season on their floors.  These designers should have all pulled the same types of trends and colors as the others.  Each designer takes this information and processes it to fit into the theme in which their collection falls.  When combining multiple mix and match pieces by various designers, it can be nearly impossible to find like items that look as though they belong together.  This combined with sales on select items, select designers, and other promotions in stores, navigating this type of confusion calls for a professional.

Think back to the last time you went shopping in a mall.  When you actually spent time looking for items for your wardrobe, or just to update your style.  How long were you there?  Did you get frustrated?  Were you exhausted before you actually found what you were looking for?  If you were on a limited budget, were you able to find great choices without compromising style, fit or compatibility with the rest of your purchases or wardrobe? I would put money on the answers being yes.  Yes, because we all have had to make those very decisions.  We have all been frustrated that in a sea of clothing, we can't find the items that fit or work with our current selections or the rest of our wardrobe.

It is a frustration that nearly every single woman has experienced at some point in their lives.  These same individuals want help, but the help inside retail stores, isn't exactly helpful.  So what can consumers do to solve this problem?  Hire a personal shopper to shop for them?  Hire a stylist to go with them?  What if they can't afford this option.  Is style only available to those who can?  I hope not.

As our world changes for more eco friendly products, cost efficiency, maybe these very questions will be addressed by shear demand from consumers.  I know it is high time for high fashion to be available to everyone, not adapted, cut down, reduced and thrown back to the end consumer.  Possibly the very answers to waste created by the current business model can result in having major changes for the better in this industry.  For those who really need help in the style department, keep looking.  If you don't ask how much it is for a stylist in your area to assist you, you may miss out on a great opportunity.  Many up and coming stylist are looking for the opportunity to built their resume.  It can be a win-win for both parties.  Keep in mind, that striving for the most fashionable you, is going to up your game professional, and personally.