Styles have changed a lot over the past fifty years, but athletic apparel and sportswear has remained a steady part of women’s wardrobes, most notably in trendy junior fashion. The only thing that’s changed is where we wear athletic clothing and what we call it.
If you came of age in the 1970’s, you might have called your “tennies” to the gym, but only to the gym, but as soon as the 80’s began, so did the athletic boom. Before long, jogging shorts, tennis shoes, and workout tops were a part of every woman’s wardrobe, and they were worn everywhere. Remember when women wore running shoes and socks with a business suit? It was a contemporary apparel trend most were glad to see go away.
Then came the movie “Flashdance” and the danskin/hip-hop look, complete with ripped t-shirts, leg warmers and stretch pants.
Today’s wholesale fashion apparel buyers are still cashing in on the sporty look, but now it has many faces. Some trends just seem to hang on forever, like leggings, Converse “Chuck Taylor” All-Stars. Even though the athletic look has been toned down a little this decade, these styles continue to play an important role in junior fashion apparel.
But the more interesting story here is the way top designers have interpreted athletic apparel and worked it into even some of the highest priced couture items. Sweatshirt fabric, platform sneakers, athletic-inspired jackets and yoga pants have all made their way, in some form, onto the runways of Paris and Milan, and into wholesale boutique clothing showrooms, such as Fashion Spot LA, for decades.
Perhaps it is the comfort-factor that attracts even the best dressed people to athletic wear, but it is a trend that doesn’t seem to be going away. Junior fashion apparel is more influenced by the sporty look than others, with most teen stores focusing on hooded sweatshirts, sweatpants and yoga pants as anchors to their fall collections.
Even the Juicy Couture brand has cashed in on the popularity of their signature tracksuits for children and teens, and sneaker companies have learned that sneaks can come in every pattern, color and texture under the sun. Now, if we could just start working out as often as it looks like we do, we’d all be in great shape!
Tags: Contempo, Junior Fashion Apparel, Trendy Junior Fashion, Wholesale Boutique Clothing, Wholesale Fashion Apparel
Over the past several years, trade shows and expos have evolved to make them more accessible to people around the world. While less personal and a lot less fun than a trip to Paris or Milan, they offer many of the same benefits as traditional shows without the travel expenses. It may have taken a bit longer for the fashion world to catch on, but with so many travel budgets being cut, wholesale fashion clothing buyers are starting to like the idea of “virtual fashion shows.”
One successful venture, the Forward Global Trade Show, is an interactive web site that allows fashion designers to show their products to women’s and junior apparel buyers in a revolutionary new way. By hosting a two-day event on their site, Forward Global allows for unparalleled networking opportunities between designers and wholesale boutique clothing buyers, making it easier than ever for fashion houses to showcase new contemporary apparel trends to buyers around the world.
Thanks to virtual shows like these, consumers will no longer need to wait two seasons to see the clothing at runway shows begin appearing in stores. This meets the immediate needs of a changing market, and allows women’s fashion apparel buyers to stay on top of emerging trends and “buy them while they’re hot.”
Just like a normal trade show, Forward Global allows up to 300 vendors to exhibit their collections in an online virtual environment that mimics an actual fashion trade show. Wholesale fashion apparel buyers from around the globe can register to attend the show, where they can watch runway shows on video, network with other attendees, and place orders on vendors’ web-stands. Women’s and junior apparel buyers such as Fashion Spot LA are expecting this trend to continue in 2010 and change the way designers go to market with their collections.
Tags: Junior Apparel, Wholesale Boutique Clothing, Wholesale Fashion Apparel, Wholesale Fashion Clothing
As the holidays approach, retailers are stocking up on evening dresses in every style color and fabric. In fact, the biggest weekend for buying evening wear is quickly approaching. Many women use the same dress for their corporate Christmas party as they do for New Year’s Eve, but this year you will see even more women trying to get one dress that will suit both occasions.
Buyers of contemporary apparel are acutely aware of how the economic crisis may affect this season’s evening wear purchases, and many are looking at a more casual line-up than in past years. Part of the reason for this is that so many companies have cut back on the formality of their holiday events, and fewer people than ever are attending fancy-dress New Year’s Eve parties. For the wholesale boutique clothing buyer, it makes sense to offer a more laid-back holiday dress selection this year.
In most ready-to-wear lines, the fabrics of choice will still be silk, satin and polyester. Best selling colors in women’s holiday dresses tend to be wine red, gold, black and turquoise. Most dresses are designed to accent the bust, and include added support, especially the strapless and empire styles.
One of the reasons for the popularity of the empire-cut dress is that so many women want to hide their waistlines and upper legs. The most enduring styles are available with a matching shawl, and are fully lined in polyester with a back zipper. Most ready-to-wear dresses are retail priced at $100 and up, with designer gowns starting at over $1,000, but wholesale fashion clothing buyers like Fashion Spot LA, are getting more incentives this year, enabling them to offer lower prices to their customers.
Tags: Contemporary Apparel, Wholesale Boutique Clothing, Wholesale Fashion Clothing
The art of being “Elegant” is defined differently by everyone; hence the phrase, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” For some, elegance can be the sheer simplicity of making something beautiful appear effortless, and for others it can be a glitzy and glamorous ensemble. But for the contemporary apparel buyer, such as Fashion Spot LA, it means knowing a few secrets of the trade. For an elegant retail collection, it all comes down to knowing your customer, what she wants, and what she doesn’t.
Elegance is an abstract concept to most people, and few people can really pull it off, but wholesale boutique clothing owners know that they are not just buying clothing; they are setting a standard of tastefulness for their clientele. And beyond that, they are showing them – through their collection of clothing and accessories – how to look elegant. In short, to a wholesale clothing apparel buyer, elegance is the art of “pulling it all together.”
While everyone has their own definition of elegance, here are some of the tips I’ve picked up after spending several years as a junior clothing apparel buyer.
1. No big flowery prints on dresses
2. No fluorescent or overly bright colored clothing
3. Fabric should be appealing to the eye- stay away from polyester – please.
4. Keep it simple – no excessive sparkles, beads or embellishments on everyday clothes
5. Make sure your blacks match other blacks and your whites other whites.
6. No unnecessary zippers or buttons on sleeves, bodices and shoulders
7. Wear clothes that fit. Something too small or too large is almost always inappropriate
8. Whatever you do, wear clean clothes, and don’t be afraid to iron them when needed
9. When something gets faded, permanently stained or ripped, get it out of your closet
10. Perhaps most important of all – if something doesn’t flatter your figure, don’t wear it just because it’s trendy.
As you can see, elegance in junior fashion apparel is not about changing innate sense of style. In fact, it’s more about what not to do than anything else. Beyond that, elegance is a state of mind.
Tags: Contemporary Apparel, Junior Clothing Apparel, Junior Fashion Apparel, Wholesale Boutique Clothing, Wholesale Clothing Apparel
Now that the Paris shows have started, contemporary apparel buyers are making predictions about what will be the most enduring trend for 2010. Some of the lesser known designers often come up with the most compelling presentations at these shows, with an eye on attracting buyers to their wholesale fashion apparel sales after the show. It is also a time for junior apparel buyers to find some exciting new ideas to start showing in stores.
A few of the designers that caught my eye this year included Eyola Victorian-inspired dresses, the black and white sculptural presentation by Agonovich, Rochas by Marco Zanini’s French sportswear and the “White Collection” by Osman Yousefzada.
One of the undercurrents that seemed to run through almost every Milan and Paris showing is a simpler, less glitzy, more accessible approach to contemporary apparel. It is as if the economic crisis has forced designers to take a long hard look at their clients’ personal outlook, and started seeing their designs through the eyes of wholesale clothing apparel buyers too. The result is a relaxed and simple design sense with an emphasis on texture and layered fabrics.
In his crisp “White Collection”, Osman Yousefzada used simple structured silhouettes in a singular palette of white, with gold accents, drawing attention to textures of silk, cheesecloth and suede in various shades of white. In his classic minimalistic style, Yousefzada applied a more futuristic feel to his spring collection with kimono shapes and abstract dip-dyed edges.
Marco Zanini offered an unhurried, sportswear approach to his Rochas collection, featuring beautifully cut liquid silk dresses falling just below the knee with layered skirts and vivid florals. Colors like mulberry, lemongrass and pistachio turned up in tiny colorful blazers, paired with tap pants and classic accessories.
When it’s time to buy wholesale boutique clothing for spring 2010, look for these fanciful yet wearable silhouettes to start showing in wholesale boutique clothing store Fashion Spot LA.
Tags: Contemporary Apparel, Wholesale Boutique Clothing, Wholesale Clothing Apparel, Wholesale Fashion Apparel, Wholesale Fashion Clothing
As Fashion Week takes New York City by storm, contemporary apparel buyers are lining up to get their first glimpse of which styles will dictate next year’s trends. This is the time of the year that shopping for wholesale fashion clothing can be fun. Viewing the latest collections from top designers and attending all the parties is a blast, but trying to plan out what to buy nine months in advance is often tricky.
Here are some tips to get a head start on buying before all the fashion magazines start showing these new looks. Planning future purchases is much easier when you use some of the “tricks of the trade”.
1. Keep an eye on lesser-known labels. Big-name designers often conform their ready-to-wear pieces to meet the demands of department store buyers. The true trendsetters, whose looks are copied by everyone else, usually begin with small labels because they can exercise more creative freedom. Choose a few of these designers and you will see them become next year’s trends in contemporary apparel.
2. Look for smaller, more toned-down versions of the “over the top” accessories shown on Fashion Week runways. While the enormous and flamboyant handbags, earrings and hair bows may not become the next trend, you will certainly see smaller versions of these as you shop for wholesale boutique clothing.
3. Stay away from lines that bear a celebrity name. Sure, athletes, actors and musicians carry a certain amount of cache at fashion shows, but they are rarely tuned into what type of contemporary apparel will really sell. That’s because they are entertainers, not designers.
4. Finally, remember that fashion trends don’t change as quickly as designers would like you to think. Some of the silhouettes from last year will still work next year, so hang on to some of the best-selling pieces you already have.
Fashion Week is one of the most highly-anticipated events in the fashion industry, and the runway fashions shown here will certainly influence many buyers and young designers. This is a time to pay close attention to what you see and spend some time imagining how these new looks will appeal to your customers. If you are unable to attend fashion week yourself, visit Fashion Spot LA, the leading off price apparel buyer.
Tags: Contemporary Apparel, Off Price Apparel, Wholesale Boutique Clothing, Wholesale Fashion Clothing
Many fashion insiders think all major fashion trends start and end with adult fashions, and just “trickle down” to wholesale boutique clothing stores and ultimately land on racks in Macy’s junior apparel section. But trendy junior fashion apparel has its own unique style, and it can often dictate some of the popular looks in woman’s wear.
For teenagers, junior apparel plays a number of important roles in their lives. It offers a way to express their individuality, the lifestyle they currently embrace and the direction they are headed. Its simplicity is based on two things: fitting in with peers, and providing a comfortable means of self-expression.
Junior clothing apparel manufacturers know how quickly a trendy junior fashion can catch on. All it takes is for a star like Miley Cyrus to wear a certain label, or pair a floral skirt with neon leggings, and before long every store is making room for these new styles.
While most teenage girls want to make their mark and try out something entirely different now and then, they tend not to break too many fashion rules for fear of looking foolish. Here are some of the latest contemporary apparel pieces seen recently at trendy junior fashion boutiques:
Layered Tanks and Tees: A splash of color and layered texture can take a few simple pieces and turn them into an “ensemble”. Juniors love the ease and comfort of layering, and most junior apparel stores know this. This is why they offer great deals on buying multiple, solid-color tanks and camisoles all year round.
Halter Dresses: Perhaps the most flattering style of junior clothing apparel for summer, the halter dress is a perpetual staple of any teenage girl’s wardrobe.
Hip-Hop Styles: Another trendy junior fashion that continues to grow in popularity is the “hip-hop” style. Inspired by artists like Kanye West and Fergie of the Black-Eyed Peas, hip-hop junior apparel includes looser, hip-riding pants, and layered tanks, offering freedom of movement and a relaxed sense of style. You can find trendy junior clothing wholesale at Fashion Spot LA, an off price apparel boutique.
Tags: Contemporary Apparel, Junior Apparel, Junior Clothing Apparel, Junior Clothing Wholesale, Off Price Apparel, Trendy Junior Fashion, Wholesale Boutique Clothing
A new comedy by Sasha Baron Cohen called “Bruno” is causing a stir in the fashion industry. While many designers don’t appreciate the stereotypes offered up in movies like Bruno and The Devil Wears Prada, others find their exaggerated characters quite amusing.
Let’s face it, with the economy in a freefall and “haute couture” designers fighting for their lives, a movie like Bruno offers a welcome diversion. Even the wholesale fashion clothing industry may see a spike in their business from this flamboyant fashion-conscious comedy.
According to the Associated Press, Austrian fashion designer Lena Hoschek isn’t put off by the prospect of a movie like Bruno, even if it is a skewed interpretation of the fashion world.
She told AP “I think it’s gonna be a fun film.”
Michael Ostertag, a Munich-based designer, was a little less enthusiastic. While he looks forward to seeing the film, he expressed concern that Bruno would give people the wrong idea about the industry, and worries that people will take him seriously.
Peeking around the corners of New York’s 7th Avenue Fashion District, my opinion is this film can only help breathe some new life into the bedraggled wholesale boutique clothing stores, during a season when they need it the most.
Similar to Miranda Priestly, the doyen of Runway magazine in The Devil Wears Prada, Bruno’s main character is a study in extremes, but is loosely based on reality.
Even if you’re not a fashion maven, the movie may ignite your inner desire to check out the clothing at Fashion Spot LA, or at least browse the wholesale junior apparel racks.
Borat creator Sasha Baron Cohen offers up another stinging sociopolitical satire in his new comedy, where he assumes the persona of Bruno, a gay fashion-monger whose character highlights the absurdities of the fashion industry.
Tags: Wholesale Boutique Clothing, Wholesale Fashion Clothing, Wholesale Junior Apparel
Contemporary apparel is constantly changing, so it takes some effort – and some cash - for a woman to be polished and stylish at all times. One challenge many women face is the need to purchase new clothing whenever their weight fluctuates. Whether approaching middle age or adapting to a new post-pregnancy shape, women can find it challenging to constantly maintain a closet full of contemporary apparel that fits.
One way women combat the high cost of changing sizes frequently is by shopping for wholesale boutique clothing. Whether shopping the wholesale outlets in New York, or perusing contemporary apparel on wholesale boutique clothing web sites, women can easily find stylish and inexpensive fashions to supplement their wardrobe.
Another tried and true wardrobe stretcher, that looks great no matter what size you’re wearing, are designer leather handbags and inexpensive high-fashion jewelry. Savvy women know that designer accessories can make or break a look. They can update a well-worn neutral suit, make wholesale boutique clothing ensembles look like they just stepped off of a runway, and totally invigorate a woman’s self-image.
To be sure you have your own signature look that isn’t already worn by thousands of others, seek out unusual and stylish jewelry and accessories at wholesale fashion clothing stores that specialize in newer high-end designers. Some of these young designers create very unusual, signature pieces. For daytime, a canvas hobo bag paired with a chunky, oversized bracelet may complement your contemporary apparel. In the evening, you can switch to a rich crocodile leather bag and replace the chunkier jewelry with delicate, faceted beads or semi-precious stones.
Even the most luxurious designer outfit can look less than polished when it’s not paired with the right handbag, shoes and fashion jewelry. Great dressers are well aware of this, and know that owning the right accessories can dramatically increase the number of looks they can achieve from owning just a few well made pieces of contemporary apparel.
If you are looking for some deals on high-end accessories, look no further than Fashion Spot LA, a wholesale fashion apparel store. Not only do they sell attractive and contemporary apparel, they can also help you match that clothing with the right handbags, shoes, belts and jewelry.
Tags: Contemporary Apparel, Wholesale Boutique Clothing, Wholesale Fashion Apparel, Wholesale Fashion Clothing
Today’s junior apparel shopper is more image-conscious than ever. They need to have the “right” skinny jeans, the perfect layering tanks and camis, the latest novelty tees, and of course all of the latest trendy junior fashion accessories.
Much of what influences today’s teens springs from the entertainment world. Whether it is the “ghetto and bling” styles worn by their favorite rappers, or the eclectic, flirty fashions worn by stars like Selina Gomez, Miley Cyrus and Demi Lovato, junior clothing apparel closely follows popular culture.
Of course, there will always be the kids who opt for solid t-shirts and five-pocket jeans, but most of today’s teenagers look for junior apparel that is a personal expression of their individual style.
Younger customers pay close attention to the trendy junior fashion pages of magazines like Teen Vogue and Seventeen. They will often reinterpret these looks with less expensive versions of the same clothing. Much of the clothing found in mall stores like Forever 21, Charlotte Russe and H&M is inspired by the junior clothing apparel worn by the young models in teen fashion magazines. These stores offer teens a unique way to incorporate artsy, trendy, high-fashion junior apparel pieces into their wardrobe without breaking the bank.
The juniors’ customer is impressionable, young, and very concerned about her image. While she desperately wants to fit in with her peer group, she also wants to be the first to wear a new style or perhaps start a trend. Wholesale boutique clothing stores are a safe place for most teenage girls, because they know that no matter what they buy, they won’t stand out too much. This is why manufacturers of junior apparel need to take very calculated risks in presenting younger version of the latest runway fashions. Usually, all it takes is for a few famous teen stars to start wearing a new trend, and before you know it, it is available in all their favorite stores.
So if you’re looking to predict the next trendy junior fashion, start watching what their favorite stars are wearing.
Tags: Junior Apparel, Junior Clothing Apparel, Trendy Junior Fashion, Wholesale Boutique Clothing