I’m curious about where the in-bound traffic to my blog is coming from so I like to check what Google Search terms are sending people to my blog. Recently, I saw someone had searched "Is Forever21 helping or hurting the fashion industry".

Forever21 Rocks!

In my humble view Forever21 and similar discount (luxe for less, also referred to as "chic n’ cheap") fashion retailers are most definitely HELPING the fashion industry. In the short term higher end fashion designers and retailers are taking a big hit. I remember being in Forever21 one weekend and having to fight the crowds to no end and then walking over to Saks Fifth to find a completely deserted floor — on a Saturday! The reality is that people don’t want to have to pay premium prices to look good. As you know, I don’t believe they should either. Forever21 and discount retailers are turning the fashion industry upside down. What used to be a very elite and segmented market, is now opening up to the masses. Everyone and their Moms’ shop at Forever21. Ok so maybe the Moms need to stay away but they are there! That’s a sign that more stores ought to target mature women’s discount fashion.

Necessary Evil

I must admit that the shady things Forever21 does in terms of knocking off designs and such has to come to a stop… but I think that’s going to take a long time to figure out. In the meantime, it’s going to happen but I think it’s a necessary evil in order for the fashion industry to take a step forward.

What do I mean by a step forward?

Well, I’ve always thought that the fashion industry was one sided — to the point where it’s unhealthy. It bothers me that fashion designers live in their creative worlds and never think twice about who their loyal fans or just a normal consumer is. They design things on their own whim… and do they ever stop to think about what it is that WE want? Do they ever care that the beautiful things they make are friggin unwearable?? Perhaps there are some that do but the most talented designers I’m sure never needed to waste their time and effort on such trivial matters. With the rise of discount fashion, which in turn made fashion accessible to the masses, this placed some of the power back into the consumer’s hands – US! There’s more of us and we have choices. The more consumers of fashion, the larger the industry can grow. The larger the industry, the more competitive the market. I feel all of this will bring about a much healthier and improved fashion industry.

I welcome all thoughts on the topic!