The fashion industry already under pressure from consumers cutting spending, then came the tariffs. If there is a fire, pouring more gas on does not help. The stakes went higher, Chinese producers launched a social media assault on luxury brands. Posts detailing the how brands manufacture products in the country. Appealing to common sense and wallets, online speaker’s layout the real costs involved in making pricey handbags selling for thousands in Western shops.
The Luxury Culture has taken a hit with recent headlines concerning sweatshop conditions in Italy but the latest posts could start an unraveling. Labels once ensconced in splendor with mood lite stores now come across as trustworthy as a used car lot in a bad section of town.
What will China’s next salvo involve? Flooding the world with fakes and gray brands is a top guest.
June’s London Fashion Week got cancelled. What was once a main stop on the fashion caravan route is now off the itinerary. The British capital had everything going for it, enough to be in the top four fashion weeks with New York, Milan and Paris. But the scene has taken a hit with many brands moving their runway shows to other cities. London will always be a fashion power given its influence, however a bit smaller. The next LFW happens in September.
Designer sneakers have fallen out of favor. A few years ago, everyone bought a pair of trainers from Balenciaga or Dior at $1000. As shoppers fall back to Earth, expensive sneakers no longer have become the “It Pieces” as buyers trade down to more affordable sneakers. Those red Converse at $45 have never looked better.
It is only April. One thing for sure, the next eight months will be interesting.
