I have written about this subject in the past. It is easy to protest, be a part of a movement that does not involve negative consequences. Climate change activism continues to stay on the front page. Greta made the cover of Time magazine as Person of the Year.
From the New York Times
However, does Generation Z really feel about the planet and consumption? Primark’s revenue rose 4% with more planned store openings in 2020.
I recently ran across a New York Times article on the Instagram obsessedcrowd concerning shopping. The divergent values add up the same as 2+2=3. This is the reason many fashion brands are having a difficult time understanding what these consumers want. Hate fast fashion on social media, run to the store to get a new look, post. Buy better means buy less, yet on Instagram posting the same look twice is a faux pas that will earn negative comments. Such is the life of digital “W level” celebrity. A disposable wardrobe in the closet on Saturday, throw it in the garbage on Monday, shopping again on Friday.
Climate change is a movement, but instant gratification is an entrenched modern behaviour.
Department stores are ingrained the fabrics of cities. Cultural temples of consumption, meeting places to see and be seen. Before World War 2 Berlin had many grand showcases of prosperity lining its big streets and plazas. The sole survivor still in existence today is the KaDeWe on Tauentzienstrasse. Damaged by Allied bombings in 1943 the building closed until its reopening of its first two floors in 1950. Today, owned by Central Group, the giant store boasts over 60.000 square meters covering seven floors.
The latest renovation of the retail store giant is taking place over a staged periods. Phase 2 opened in this week, the ground floor, fifth floor, and sixth floor.
First, the ground floor, a narrow funneling traffic approach layout between the LV and Dior concessions. Not the most welcoming or pleasant interior, first impressions. I had feeling of running through a luxury Pac Man game. The funnel or entry track ends in a very cramped make up department at the foot of escalators.
The second renovated floor, house wares department, falls short of imagination with many new brands “just” on display, lacking an engaging effect.
A social meeting place, a hangout, shop for those special items only found in one spot in the city. KaDeWe’s food floor is as much a part of Berlin as the Brandenburg Gate, a reference point. The sixth floor mixed groceries bakeries, mixed cuisine restaurants, and cafes side by side, a local meeting place in many forms.
Out with old,, Why?
The remodelled phase one opened in December 2018. The completed second phase recently opened. Half thought out, awkward, lacking warmth comes to my mind. Out with the old footprint, in with the new. In my opinion, the old was better, special, more charm.
The atmospheric lighting is jarring, sterile. A remodelling blueprint exists, perhaps a bit of a rethink is needed. There is no overall look. New restaurant stalls just plopped in the middle of the floor layout. Tables randomly placed along low glass wall
Reinventing the 21st customer experience is crucial for retailers. Certainly the KaDeWe is moving ahead, but the direction is the question.
The KaDeWe Grand Opening Event was a crowd pleaser. An all expense gala with over 1800 guests sampling the newly opened restaurants.
I have been in the market for a new laptop. Currently, I use a MacBook Pro. Loyalty is a not factor because I have had different brands over the years. My needs change or evolve when it comes to work devices.
Given a chance to test the HP Spectre gave me an opportunity, why not? I know the HP brand but I am not familiar with the companies product line. Certainly, I did not think they had a stylishly designed product that would fit my needs. I had a pleasant tech surprise.
My Impressions
The Box
My initial reaction: A nice finish, pleasing to the eye, and easy to put under the arm in a rush with the leather case.
Battery life is good. The flat keyboard is comfortable with a responsive touchpad. The overall performance, fast, while easy to use.
While I was using this Spectre I broke my arm, then in a cast for 7 weeks.
I had a mixed impression of the facial ID system. Without glasses, fine, there were problems wearing glasses for identification. I used the ID code.
The portability factor, weighing around 3 pounds, worked for me while traveling around Italy and France on a working holiday. I used the tablet feature for spontaneous on set conversations. When writing I put in the table top setting. The tent mode was good for breakfast meetings.
I had a touch screen PC in the past. Using one again reminds me what I missed about them. They are intuitive and easy to use. The 13 inch backlight screen is sharp.
Staying in the premium league for Spectre, the Bang Olusen speakers are good for those like me who listen to music while working.
The Modes
Working in the South of France
I had no problems with heating while simultaneously keeping many windows open.
HP is positioning the Spectre for those searching for a style with reliability in their PC’s. You will not be ashamed sitting at a cafe using this slick device.
To my surprise, even the accessories were well designed.
Lastly
About this review, sadly, I broke my and ended in the hospital and with a cast for almost 2 months. I did not have the opportunity to really put the Spectre through a more rigorous test. However, overall, I liked the PC.
Quick Specs
Intel Core CPU, Intel UHD Graphics, Wifi and Bluetooth connectivity, micro sd port, 13 inch touch screen
Olivier Rousteing is a one man force of fashion. Being the youngest and first person of color to head a major Paris label. He transformed the once staid house Balmain into a global phenomenal worn by “A list” celebrities.
The documentary “Wonderboy” explores his life in the fast lane.
I have not seen the film yet. As soon as hits the screen, I will buy a ticket.
I looked over the Dior Pre-Fall Collection. Kim Jones continues to lean to streetwear for inspiration. His commercial instincts are solid. Luxury labels must court new buyers to stay relevant. I am not sure where the line is drawn between courting and desperate attempt.
Dior meets Air Jordans from the Pre Fall Collection.
The new Nike Air Jordan hi-top crosses the border. The association reminds me of an LA Swap Meet stall. I do understand the inspiration other than some street credibility. In all honesty, it takes tacky to an overpriced level. For many reasons this type of cross over collaboration reminds me of Pierre Cardin licensing products in the 1980’s. Where did that end?
Lastly, with all certainty, this new sneaker will have millions of fake copies in a matter of weeks. On sale at the Swap Meet for 29.99.
An emerging designer, Tiziano is making strides in the Milan scene. Combining sustainable materials into wearable pieces he proves eco -fashion can be interesting as well as vibrant. Oversized pieces with long lengths was the running theme. Not bad, I will keep an eye on him.
As Fashion Weeks approach I think there are now 3 categories of fashion types attending the shows and events. The Fashion World is driven by character absorption of media images. I classify them in 3 categories: The Carrie Bradshaws, The Anna Wintours, and The Kardashians.
The Big 3
First, The Carrie Bradshaws of the fashion world. They really want to live in New York City while sort of having a job as a part time writer in one of the most expensive cities in the world. Living the life of shopping for heels, then hitting a lunch spot for a chat with friends. Sadly, that world is about as much reality as a Marvel Super Hero Film. But if they can attend a fashion show, look perky, get a few pictures sitting row front, job done.
Second, The Anna Wintour types are a more serious crowd. They want to respect. Armed with sunglasses, and a lot of attitude. When this type walks in you are suppose to know who they are from the first point of contact. The Fashion Gods will strike from Heaven for this impertinence. Yes, some even try to absorb the superior character straits of a public personality. Is Anna really like this? According to their definition, “yes”.
Lastly, The Kardashian types are more about a show. They give you a spectacle. Presentation is important. Tight looks or a lot of color, heels to the ceiling, so much make up, Liberace would be proud. I am never sure what these people do for a day job. Of course they have a tag along companion.
These types are not exclusive to females. The male versions are a bit different. There are few masculine Carrie types. Men tend to lean more on the Wintour and Kardashians side. You know them when you meet them and more when you “see” them. No introduction needed.
Fashion Weeks Season starts in January until the end of February.
