Luxury Market sees boom in China

The growing potential of Chinese luxury market makes it impossible for the global luxury product manufacturers to ignore the 'dragon nation'.

Luxury brands thrive in the soil of China. Their luxury market including jewelry, leather products, fashion apparels, perfumes etc. reached around $8 billion USD during 2007. A statistics states that, China accounts to 18% of the global luxury consumption. Almost 80% of the top global luxury brands have entered into China. Luxury mavens predict that by 2015, luxury consumption in China will constitute 32% of the global market.

In the recent past many international luxury brands were attracted by the market potential of China. Numerous luxury brands like Versace, Rolex, Chanel, Omega, Dior, Prada, and Zegna have dipped their toes in the country. Lots of luxury brands are manufactured in China. Coach, Prada, Furla, and LV are made in China in big numbers. Numerous factories in Guangdong make a range of brands which are sold in the market for a fortune. Cities such as Shanghai and Beijing have attracted the investments of retail giants like Giorgio Armani.

II and III tier cities fuel the luxury market:

China has 100 cities with population exceeding one million. With the increasing number of consumers' disposable income, and their inclination to acquire a social strata, and willingness to express uniqueness in their lifestyle, luxury market is fuelled up even in the II and III tier cities. I tier cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Beijing have advanced retail infrastructures and high per capita GDP. The II and III tier cities are also catching up with the former ones. Middle class population in China is estimated to grow and reach 250 million by 2010. With the growing interest of middle class people towards luxury products, the market is heating up. Social status is now becoming imperative for middle income people as well. Luxury products enable the consumers to project a social class. Consumers from II and III tier cities feel the need to 'close the gap' and build up a I tier image. They go in for buying branded items with a hefty price tag only to display their status to others.

Advent of the Chinese 'chuppies':

The young and profligate Chinese generation in between the age group 20-30 known as 'yuppies' or 'chuppies' in China; meaning one to spends all he earns. They are raising a wave of unprecedented commercialism. The chuppies are young, urban, and middle class consumers who are generally white collared, having 100% disposable income. They will be the most powerful consumer group; not only in China but all across the globe within the next 15 years.

This young generation population has a strong preference towards Western brands, and luxury products. They prefer their accessories to reflect their personality and clothes, footwear, and cosmetics occupy a major portion of their expenditure. They are eager to shop for status enhancing products in lavish packaging. Women choose to buy cosmetics in Western or American packing instead of buying plastic packing even if it contains more quantity.

Look Fashionable with worn out Fire Hoses!

Ever thought about the industrial fire hoses which are no longer useful? Recycling has its own creative applications to these hoses.

Everyone wishes to look classy, and own fashionable accessories. To look stylish and buy products to fit the kind of lifestyle requires a ransom. In todays world of increasing consciousness towards ecological living, one has to choose products that are both trendy and also environmentally friendly. Many textiles; though inherently beautiful are still sent to the landfill. Modish handbags made from recycled fire hoses are now an emerging trend in the market. They solve a twofold purpose of being trendy, and ecological.

These trendy looking handbags have an exciting story behind them. Passion for recycling has gone to such extent, that its creative and useful applications have now entered into fire hoses as well. After helping to save people from the deadly tongues of fire, these hoses are recycled and used innovatively for making beautiful and elegant handbags, wallets, and belts. One will never be able to observe that these beautiful tote bags and belts were one destined as a landfill.

Quality handbags and belts are made from decommissioned fire hoses which are used in that field for more than 30 years. Recycled hose is both fire and water resistant. Dirt and grime are removed, and the hoses undergo green process where it transforms the 'once' fire hoses into classic handbags. Adding to its ecological applications, lining for these handbags are made from reclaimed office furniture. Designed with a mobile holder, two exterior pockets, and a spacious zipped pocket, they make an ideal day bag. It also has two straps to fit perfectly on the shoulder. Stylish and durable, these bags make absolute and irresistible fashion accessories. As these handbags are made from recycled fire hose, they are shower proof making a perfect cover for things during the monsoon. Maintenance is also easy as well. A cloth dipped in natural oil or vinegar is enough to clean the bag and make it spotless; once again.

Attractive belts, wallets, card holders are also made from this material. Basic material being taken from recycled fire hoses, the supplementary materials are also taken from other recycled sources making the process completely sustainable. While reclaimed office furniture is used as lining material in handbags, reclaimed sailing cloth from racing boats are used in wallets.

Recycled fire hose accessories make a good choice for a perfect gift. Being a sustainable green gesture, they make a good substitute for ties, shirts, and watches. This gift not only augments to ecological living, but is also a way to honor the profession of a fire fighter and his hose whose tasks are priceless. By buying these products, consumers can reduce the wastages cluttering the planet.

The green process of recycling has breathed new life into old and retired fire hoses. Classic, and timeless in beauty, these products are eco friendly and at the same time satisfy the want of the owner to look fashionable as well.

'Fashion under the Umbrella'

Monsoon is one more opportunity for fashionistas to display a fashion statement.

Every time when the sky opens and there is a heavy downpour, people lose interest in dressing and going out of their houses. But this is the right season to organize a cheerful wardrobe, wear bold colors and have a fashion fiesta. Saggy clothes and wet boots are a part of the monsoon, but right choice of accessories, will help to dodge the puddles and give a trendy look. The first and best clothing would be colorful raincoats. Cream, brown and black make normal attire, whilst a pink coat with a belt will look attractive. Any clothing ranging from tops, skirts, and dresses will go with the season, while a knee length costume along with a colored pair of leggings would best sustain the monsoon sprit.

Hues for the Rain:

Designers say that bright shades of indigo, green and blue hold good for monsoon. Various hues of sea to dark shades of green will be the choice of the season. Designer's favorite palette of purple, lemon yellow and white are also the best picks of monsoon. Not just vibrant colors, but even light hues of fuschia pink and soft pastels of pink, orange and peach help to lighten the mood. Wrinkle free clothing in dark shades of black and brown make an ideal formal wear. Beige tined with multi-colors and black seem perfect during the rain.

Fabrics for the Rain:

Blended fabrics of polynylon and, cotton will be ideal. A right choice of fabric is more important, as some of them lose their sheen and get spoilt quickly once they get wet. Avoiding crepe and chiffon clothes are desirable, as they will lose their sheen one they become wet. Capri and beach wear designed with a proper fit will flatter the shape and also protect the wearer from wet conditions. Cool casuals for the season would be a jeans fitted with a cotton shirt. Silk and rayon will also make a popular choice during this season adding depth to the hues with variances in the color palette which is otherwise not seen.

Palazzo pants teamed with tank tops make good fusion wears whereas, elegant zardosi work on satin fabrics make the mark on ethnic collection. Denims are all time favorite even during the heavy downpour making a perfect combination with trendy T-shirts. Polka dot tops with boat necks will look great for evening wear.

Greet the monsoon with colorful accessories:

The right combination of colorful accessories makes the monsoon attire all the more appealing. Metal and leather can be avoided during the rainy season. Aqua colored glass beads, and funky translucent bangles make the match for monsoon clothing. These colorful and trendy accessories can be teamed with any outfit. Multicolored and semi transparent jelly sandals will add a dash to the play. A girlish jewelry like single pendant and acrylic accessories give a sporty look for the rainy season. Beautiful bracelets, earrings, and neck pieces made of plastic, rubber, and acrylic make a trendy fad.

Showers of the monsoon time are a right time to refurbish the wardrobe. Fashion designers continue to improve the art of fashion with beautiful patterns and give a sunny look on a rainy day. Special trends hit the shop racks and make a perfect choice of ward

Japanese Clothing

'Japanese Clothing-A Voyage through Ages

From "Imitated Chinese Robes" to "Kimono" The National Costume of Japan'

Abstract

The paper addresses a research that shows the voyage of how the ancient Japanese clothing has grown from being an imitation of there much superior counterparts "the ancient Chinese court dresses" to what they today are.

Introduction

The motivation for this research work comes from the contemporary fashion trends and many ramp runways that appear to be strongly inspired by the traditional Japanese clothing. Be it in terms of fabrics or the silhouettes which not only seems to inspire the prt lines but have also become the talk of the town in some haute couture lines.

Product Lifecycle Management

Globalization has made the apparel and footwear industry more challenging than ever. Many companies that used to manufacture, today also design, source and distribute. There is greater competition, consumers are much more demanding and distribution channels are shrinking. Consolidation is having an impact on nearly every aspect of the marketplace. In 1980 there were 200 different department store nameplates in the United States. Today, that figure has dwindled to just 17.

The industry has become increasingly consumer and design-driven as fashion trends change overnight. Consumers demand new designs, greater choice and expect immediate availability in a wide range of colors and sizes, which has led to even shorter product lifecycles and larger numbers of SKUs for companies to manage. Global sourcing is common, supply chains are often complex and lead times long. High, on-time delivery performance is critical and the seasonal nature of many products and collections increases the risk of inventory exposure.

The defining line between retailers and suppliers has become blurred. Suppliers are moving into the retail sector, and retailers are taking greater control of the supply chain. As a result, responsibility for store-ready inventory is shifting up the supply chain.

In addition, many brand owners are opening retail stores. If the right product mix is not in the store at the right time, it results in lost sales opportunities, damage to the brand image, low sell-through rates on product lines and ticket price markdowns, which are often necessary to shift merchandise and minimize obsolescent inventory. All of these things squeeze margins.

So in order to gain a competitive advantage, the firm management of your end-to-end supply chain is essential. As a result your demand and production planning will become increasingly critical and more complex. And a wrong decision can have major ramifications.

Almost every fashion company has the opportunity to tap into and use the same source of supply as its competitors, at a similar cost, with similar quality and similar delivery terms. This can mean little differentiation in the merchandise your company sources. And for brands, design cachet is particularly at risk because of the ease and swiftness with which your signature look can be copied.

So how do you compete in the future? How can a fashion company create distinction? The answer is greater customer intimacy. This is achieved by providing a unique experience that meets the wants, needs and demands of your customers. Customer intimacy is the new mantra for differentiating your merchandise and service proposition. To compete successfully you need to understand and service your customers' needs and wishes better than ever before.

With all these challenges in mind, investing in processes and technology, in order to achieve best-in-class performance, is more important than ever. The platform to support process improvement and optimize performance is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. But remember, not all ERP vendors are equal, and no two ERP solutions are the same. At Lawson, we created this guide to help you make a more informed choice. It is by no means definitive, but it will highlight the key factors youll need to take into account to help you in your selection.

The fashion industry includes companies that design/source/distribute, wholesale or manufacture apparel, footwear, home textiles or accessories.

Glam Dolls' Life: Fashion and Beyond

"Supermodels' face's from the past"

Abstract

This is a compilation of research that gives us a quick peek about how the fashion industry was literally tamed by some of the most notoriously gorgeous faces in the history of fashion.

It shows how the supermodels gradually transformed themselves from being "mere cloth hangers" to being the "trend setters" thereby giving fashion of there era a new dimension altogether.

Introduction

Some time back supermodel Claudia Schiffer famously said that the 'supermodel culture' is dead. Schiffer also said that supermodels like herself, Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford 'don't exist anymore'. The German model blamed the film and the pop stars for stealing the status of fame and international recognition which was once possessed solely by supermodels. And this is where the inspiration of this research work comes from.

Fashion Fashion Everywhere

Fashion is nothing but a game in which all of us are involved. It is a different matter that the rules of the game may differ from person to person. These so called rules are not something written in any legal document, nor are they broadcasted on the net. Rather during the course of our lifetime we get to learn these by trial and error and sometimes by copying others.

If we look into the psychological aspect involved with the fashion business, we will find that people go after fashion for numerous reasons. Some of them may be with the feeling of either being part of a group or in stark contrast being entirely different from the group. Although in both the cases it is the psychology of the consumer that is dictating which fashion trends to adopt and which to reject, the result is as different as two magnetic poles.

Let us take the first case, where a consumer wants to be part of a group or we can say the consumer wants to have a sense of belonging. Generally this kind of behavior is seen in college kids, fresh out of school uniforms, with new aspirations and high dreams. This generation comprising of 16-20 year old ones is very eager to adopt to anything new which is happening in the market. They want to look fashionable and are ready to go to any lengths for that purpose. For example the latest shades of nail paints in rainbow colors, layered clothing, body piercing, tattoos and what not. Little do they think of the health hazards, financial relevance or the very basic fact that whether they look OK or not. What they want is that they should be accepted by their peers and treated on an equal level. Nobody wants to be treated as an outcast. This segment can be called as the ATBAGs (About To Be Adults Group).

This is also the generation which has been targeted by the marketing teams of various big shot brands of the fashion industry. It is easier to hook the fish in this case, because this segment can get very easily attracted to whatever the advertisements say. Just use the latest hot pop icon or the top favorite celebrity and half of your battle is won.

The second kind of consumer is a tricky lot. It comprises of the people in the age group of late 20s and early 30s. Now this segment is the one who has a mind of their own and who would think the pros and the cons before accepting or rejecting any fashion statement. This is the time when consumers start building their own image and identity. The image that they present to the society at large should justify their profession, their personality and to a large extent their individuality. People now become INDIVIDUALS with an independent fashion sense. The psychology here is that they have to be different from their peers so that they can be noticed. This individuality would then be acting like a ladder for both professional and personal reasons.

A different approach to this scenario is if we compare the society as a movie and the people there as various actors and actresses. Every actor would have a different role to play in the movie. We would be having a hero, heroine, villain, supporting actors etc. All these people will be required to dress differently according to the part they play. In real life also people play different roles. Be it in the role of a business executive, a homemaker, a doctor, a lawyer, or a teacher. The image that has been portrayed should compliment the role. This segment can be called as the YABIGs (Young Adults Becoming Individuals Group).

This fact has been aptly utilized by the fashion industry while planning their marketing moves as well as classifying their product lines. A consumer who is a CEO of a company by profession would obviously go for business suits from maybe Armani, Raymonds, or Louis Philippe. In variance to this a movie star would be dressed more casually and always ahead of fashion.

The Little Black Magic

Classic

Fashion-trends are cyclic in nature, the history of women's fashion has witnessed many trends coming in and fading away eventually. But there are some trends which not only survived beyond a certain time frame but reinvented themselves thereby becoming immortal.

These classics are not mere designs but visions drafted with utmost purity and clarity in terms of design processes.

Little black dresses

The little black dress is a semi-formal evening wear outfit with simple cuts and short length originally made popular in the 1920s by veteran designer called Coco-Chanel.

Projected by Chanel to be a long-lasting, versatile, affordable, and accessible to the widest market possible and in a neutral color.

Through this paper we would be discussing the power of this sensuous outfit after all it doesnt happens everyday in the fashion world where a designs continued ubiquity is such that many refer to it by the abbreviation LBD.

History

Wearing the color black and mourning used to be occasions going hand in hand, black a neutral among other colors was always offered a step treatment, a subject of detest, something which everyone would like to avoid coming across.

With painters painting black as evil, authors writing about the negativity associated with, it was nothing more then a symbol of fatality and casualty. For example the painting called Portrait of Madame X, by John Singer Sargent.

First the world war-1 and next the deadly Spanish flu knocking the doors, many lifes were lost in Europe, as a result women appearing in black in public became a common site. To add to that since during the Victorian and the Edwardian ages, a widow was expected to wear several stages of mourning dress for at least two years.

Deep or full mourning would require them to conceal themselves in complete black clothing with no decoration being encouraged at all for the first year. Even the fabric chosen used to be coarser and of most inferior quality possible. During the next year however they could afford wearing silk in black.

Mini Skirt History

Mary Quant ran a popular clothes shop in the Kings Road, Chelsea, London called Bazaar, from which she sold her own designs. In the late 1950s she began experimenting with shorter skirts, which resulted in the miniskirt in 1965-one of the defining fashions of the decade.

Owing to Quant's position in the heart of fashionable "Swinging London", the miniskirt was able to spread beyond a simple street fashion into a major international trend. Its acceptance was greatly boosted by Jean Shrimpton's wearing a short white shift dress, made by Colin Rolfe, on 30^th October 1965 at Derby Day, first day of the annual Melbourne Cup Carnival in Australia, where it caused a sensation. According to Shrimpton, who claimed that the brevity of the skirt was due mainly to Rolfe's having insufficient material, the ensuring controversy was as much as anything to do with her having dispensed with a hat and gloves, seen as the essential accessories in such conservative society.

Development

The miniskirt was further popularised by Andr Courrges, who developed it separately and incorporated it into his Mod look, for spring/summer 1965. His miniskirts were less body-hugging, and worn with the white "Courrges boots" that became a trademark. By introducing the miniskirt into the haute couture of the fashion industry, Courrges gave it a greater degree of respectability than might otherwise have been expected of a street fashion.

The miniskirt was followed up in the late 1960s by the even shorter micro skirt, which has been referred to derogatorily as a belt or pelmet. Upper garments, such as rugby shirts, were sometimes adapted as mini-dresses. Tights or panty-hose became highly fashionable, in place of stockings, specifically because the rise in hemlines meant that stocking tops would be visible. Mary Quant cited this development in defense of the miniskirt: "In European countries where they ban mini-skirts in the streets and say they're an invitation to rape, they don't understand about stocking tights underneath".

Mini Skirt

If one fashion item could sum up the 60s it would be the mini-skirt. Opinion is split on who came up with the idea-the wise money would probably go on a Frenchman, Jean Courreges, but our own Mary Quant is widely accepted as having dreamt up the ever more daring hemline.

Within a year anybody who had the body to pull it off was wearing a mini. In New York the norm was 4-5 inches above the knee but over in Swinging London anything other than 7-8 inches above the knee was considered positively decent!

The usual look was to pair what little was left of the skirt with matching sweater and tights for a uniform look. When, in 1968, Jackie Kennedy wore a white Valentino miniskirt for her wedding to Aristotle Onassis its place at the pinnacle of fashion was confirmed.

1970s

During the mid-1970s, the fashion industry largely returned to longer skirts such as the midi and the maxi. Journalist Christopher Booker gave two reasons for this reaction: firstly, that "there was almost nowhere else to go...the mini-skirts could go no higher"; and secondly, in his view, "dressed up in mini-skirts and shiny PVC macs, given such impersonal names as 'dolly birds', girls had been transformed into throwaway plastic objects". Certainly this lengthening of hemlines coincided with the growth of the feminist movement. However, in the 1960s the mini had been regarded as a symbol of liberation, and it was worn by some, such as Germaine Greer and, in the following decade, Gloria Steinem, who became known for their promotion of women's issues.

Look Casual but Stylish

'Tips for Casual, but Stylish Dressing over 40'

Casual and stylish. It's a challenging combination, especially for women over 40. How do you find that middle ground between sweat pants and the latest hot trend? Here are 5 Tips for Casual, but Stylish dressing after 40.

1. Try Leggings and a Dress

Short flowing mini dresses worn with bare legs and heels look great on twenty and thirty year olds, but that doesn't mean they are off limits to women over 40. Many of these dresses look an awful lot like long tops, which means they work on many midlife women if you pair them with dark leggings, and ballerina slippers, or flat boots.

2. Throw on a Wide Belt

A quick way to look up to date over 40 is to add a wide belt to your casual weekend outfit. A wide belt worn loosely at the hip on a slight angle, will instantly add a touch of the wow factor. Worn at the hip a wide belt is also a fantastic way to camouflage a flabby belly which is so common after 40.

3. Slip on a Sweater Wrap

Transitioning into Spring or Fall has never been easier or more fun, than owning a wrap. Just putting it on will make you feel like you have more flare and sophistication. Whether its cashmere wrap shawl, a poncho or a sweater wrap jacket that cascades down the front a sweater wrap adds chic, grown up style to a very casual look.

4. Experiment with Flat Shoes

If you love to wear your jeans on the weekend, update them with a great pair of flats. Not only are the practical and comfortable, but they are and easy way to add personality to your outfit. Picture dark brown jeans and a top with a playful pair of leopard flats. Casual, but Classy!

5. Add some Costume Jewelry

A pair of jeans with a white shirt looks mild mannered and average, but add some bold costume jewelry and all of a sudden your casual look has gone chic. Look for bold, bright interesting necklaces, earrings and bracelets. The idea is to add color and fun dont be afraid to wear something a little more out there than that fine gold chain you wear all week.

About the Authors

Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler (The Glam Gals) are Image and Style Experts specializing in helping women 40 plus look and feel fabulous. They are the authors of the e-book, The Glam Plan ~ 12 Simple Steps to Take You from Frumpy to Fabulous & Tweak Your Chic ~ Mother of the Bride, as well as coaches for their Tweak Your Chic™, Image make-over program. For more tips visit their blog and sign-up for their newsletter at http://www.FabulousAfter40.com

Indian Fashion Industry

Fashion is an evolving subject. Yesterday's fashion will undoubtedly resurface again as fashion moves its way through the trend cycles time and time again. Fashion refers to styles of dress (but can also include cuisine, literature, art, architecture, and general comportment) that are popular in a culture at any given time.

The History

The total range of costumes in India is considerably expanded between the 8^th and the 12^th centuries. Interesting and useful accounts of geographers and chroniclers, especially those of Arab and Chinese origin throw light on the Indian costumes in vogue at different times in history. In their accounts, Masudi, Idrisi and Ibn Hawqal speak of Indian cotton with a sense of wonder and awe. With the arrival of the Mughals in the 16^th century, new garments like qaba, jama, piraban, lilucba, liba, kasaba, and the like began to be used. These kinds of costumes are also found illustrated in the historical works like the Babar nama, the Tawatlkb-i-kbandan-i-Taimuriya and the Tarikb-i-fi.

Abu'l Fazl provides probably the best documentation that we have of the costumes of India from any single source prior to the 19^th century. He mentions that Akbar had replaced the names of several garments with new and pleasing terms. Muslin from undivided India was an important commodity of export and a high fashion fabric in Europe and other parts of the world.

Indian costumes like the silk saris, brightly mirrored cholis, colorful lehangas and the traditional salwar-kameez have fascinated many a travelers over the centuries. Although sari is only one of the many traditional garments worn by women, yet it has become the national dress of Indian women. The tightly fitted, short blouse worn under a sari is a choli, which evolved as a form of clothing in 10^th century AD.

Though the majority of Indian women wear traditional costumes, the men in India can be found in more conventional western clothing. Shirts and trousers are worn by men from all the regions of India. However, men in villages wear traditional attires like kurtas, lungis, dhotis and pyjamas.

Fashion Designing Vs Costume Designing

Though fashion designing is now a day gaining much attention, importance and preference, one more profession which is more related to fashion designing and having a vast scope but not that much gained attention and preference is "Costume Designing".

The success of any movie or drama serial also depends on the characters costume but the audiences are mainly interested only to know about the actor, director, musician, lyricist, chromatographer or choreographer but hardly anybody interested in to know about the costume designer.

The dynamic growth of entertainment media -Television, Cinema, and technology etc., has lead to budding of number of TV channels and making of increased number of movies either nationally or regionally. The TV channels have to come up with more number of drama serials, programmes, shows in order to attract more number of viewers. Every channel whether it is a kid channel, sports channel, news channel or commercial, all have various programmes, specialty shows, drama serials. all need a Right Costume rather to say a good costume.

Costume Designing

Costume designing is an art of designing or choosing or procuring a suitable/right costume-from dresses to accessories-to a character/presenter in a play or movie or show.

An improper or wrong costume may lead to the vagueness in the play or movie or show. So to take care of the right costume for the play or movie or show, the responsibility is given to a separate person who is known as Costume designer. So every play or movie or show needs a costume designer. It is a challenging, interesting and cautious job which requires much more skills when comparing to fashion designing. Though costume designing is much related to fashion designing most of the fashion designing students are not much aware of the profession of costume designing and the scope it provides. Now, costume designing is mostly done by famous fashion designers or by the person who has gained experience in this profession but very few qualified fashion designers do costume designing.

Fashion Designing Vs Costume Designing

Though fashion designing is now a day gaining much attention, importance and preference, one more profession which is more related to fashion designing and having a vast scope but not that much gained attention and preference is "Costume Designing".

The success of any movie or drama serial also depends on the characters costume but the audiences are mainly interested only to know about the actor, director, musician, lyricist, chromatographer or choreographer but hardly anybody interested in to know about the costume designer.

The dynamic growth of entertainment media -Television, Cinema, and technology etc., has lead to budding of number of TV channels and making of increased number of movies either nationally or regionally. The TV channels have to come up with more number of drama serials, programmes, shows in order to attract more number of viewers. Every channel whether it is a kid channel, sports channel, news channel or commercial, all have various programmes, specialty shows, drama serials. all need a Right Costume rather to say a good costume.

Costume Designing

Costume designing is an art of designing or choosing or procuring a suitable/right costume-from dresses to accessories-to a character/presenter in a play or movie or show.

An improper or wrong costume may lead to the vagueness in the play or movie or show. So to take care of the right costume for the play or movie or show, the responsibility is given to a separate person who is known as Costume designer. So every play or movie or show needs a costume designer. It is a challenging, interesting and cautious job which requires much more skills when comparing to fashion designing. Though costume designing is much related to fashion designing most of the fashion designing students are not much aware of the profession of costume designing and the scope it provides. Now, costume designing is mostly done by famous fashion designers or by the person who has gained experience in this profession but very few qualified fashion designers do costume designing.

Hong Kong Fashion Week Defies Global Recession, Swine Flu

Now in its 16^th edition, Hong Kong Fashion Week was unveiled on 6 July 2009 at Hong Kong Conventional Centre amidst hopes of business generation by the exhibitors and expectations of business visitors to locate new products and sources. It was to be so expected, inasmuch as this major industry event ranks high in the regional calendar as a top place to source all kinds of apparel and fashion accessories as well as garment-related products and services.

Keeping in view the emerging needs of the exhibitors and business visitors, the fair added new zones to the existing ones. The new zones set up by the organisers were Brand Name Gallery, which was a prestigious zone exhibiting brand-name garments. Then there was Intimate wear zone, where the exhibitors found the latest trends in lingerie and night-wear. Other specilaised sectors included World of Fashion Accessories, Infant & Childrens wear, Bridal and Evening wear, Fabrics & Yarn, Sewing Supplies, Fashion Gallery as well as International Fashion Designers Showcase, each of which was brimming with the latest styles from talented designers from Hong Kong, China as well from Indonesia and Korea.

The 1,164 exhibitors (up slightly from 1,154 last year), who came primarily from China and Hong Kong, were seeing fewer buyers. Those who did shop at the show were placing smaller orders and requesting faster delivery times. Interaction with the visitors revealed that there was less business this year as compared to earlier editions of the Week. One of the visitors, who has been regular frequenter of this event, did say that he is buying lesser this time. "You have to work harder for the same money," he said with a weary shrug

"It is very, very quiet," said Michelle Keeling, Managing Director for RTHK Clothing Exporters Ltd. in Hong Kong, which manufactures mens, womens and childrens clothing. She said Hong Kong and China have been affected by what everyone is calling a "financial tsunami." Its the delayed wave of financial disaster washing over export-based economies now affected by the downturn in importing regions such as the United States and Europe.

That was evident in the trade statistics coming out of Hong Kong. According to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, clothing and clothing-accessories exports from Hong Kong to the United States slid 14.4 percent to $2.8 billion during the first five months of this year compared with the same period last year. Exports to Europe were down around 13 percent. "This past year has not been easy," said Vincent Fang, Chairman of the Garment Advisory Committee to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. He is also Chief Executive of Toppy International Ltd., a Hong Kong company that owns one apparel factory in China with nearly 5,000 workers that supplies two retail chains, operating under the Episode and Jessica nameplates. Fang, who also makes shirts for Polo Ralph Lauren in the US market through contractors in Central America, said the fragile economy in the West is forcing him to expand his business in China. "The whole world is looking to China as a savior," he observed.

China may be putting the brakes on its rapid expansion, but it still has a relatively healthy economy. The World Bank projects that Chinas gross domestic product will grow a robust 7.2 percent this year. In comparison, the US gross domestic product is expected to contract between 5 percent and 6 percent.

If a stubbornly tough recession was keeping some buyers away, the threat of the swine flu acted as another deterrent. While Hong Kong has had no deaths related to the virus, travelers and businesspeople seem to be particularly cautious about trekking to the region. They remember the SARS epidemic that claimed 299 people in Hong Kong and 349 in China between November 2002 and July 2003. Last years show was much better, said Mandy Chan, a merchandiser for the Zhejiang Seven Fortune Group, which manufactures sweaters in China for apparel companies such as Chicos, Guess? Inc. and Zara. Maybe its the economy; maybe it is H1N1 [swine flu], she said.

Blends of African outfits from Ankara

Destiny of the 'once before' cheap Ankara fabrics, have undergone a magical transformation. Elegant creativity of the designers has made it a preferred choice of the rich and celebrities.

Ankara is a fabric that was normally reserved for cultural festivities. People felt that this fabric was too flowery, and too colorful. Formerly referred as Dutch was from Holland; this fabric acquired its current name ankara when the Turks made a cheaper version of the fabric. Without a glamorous look, the fabric was regarded indigenous.

There was a time, when ankara textiles were regarded as the fabric of the poor. But today, the fabric has undergone a magic transformation to become a choice of rich and famous. Fabrics which were once considered as out of fashion has changed to become a sizzling fad. Nowadays, ankara fabric has become an inevitable part of any social functions. Fashion designers have sensed this trend, and are coming up with appealing designs to capture the apparel market.

Ankara fabric is believed to have its origin from a girl named Ankara. This fabric is usually made of 100% cotton and posses good strength when woven tightly. Good apparels tailored from these fabrics are expensive.

Ankara in the Fashion World:

This traditional African fabric has infiltrated the fashion world as well. Blended with other matching fabrics and with a good design, ankara fabrics are the fancy of many people. The appeal of the finished product depends on the creativity, and skills of the designer. Fashion gurus like Lunar, Aimas, Tiffany Amber, MoMo, Gloss, and Cranberry have breathed new life into the fabric through their experience and creativity. Available in alluring designs, ankara graces catwalks and has won laurels. Since it is a cotton fabric with different motifs, this fabric can be used for both office and formal occasions. A printed outfit with small motifs will make a perfect clothing.

This fabric has infinite creative applications like shirts, bags, clothes, dresses etc. Styles, and designs available for this cloth are endless which makes all people; men and women, young, and the aged become glued to it. Ankara has made a come back in a big way with modern patterns, and vibrant colors.

Ankara posses the capabilities of being able to dye faster and did not get stained much. Due to its virtues, this fabric was considered as a competitor of the Western adire cloth. As Nigeria is a fashion savvy part of Africa has taken the fabric, improved them, and has represented it to the world. Nigeria being a big market, offers vast potential for the manufacture and sales of ankara. But, smuggling, and unfair trade practices in the nation has affected the local production.

Ankara fabrics have been the desired choice of African women. Due to its affordability, this garment was once considered suitable for under privileged. But with the lapse of time, the fabric found favor with contemporary fashion, and modern styles. Ankara has its own virtues, and looks more graceful when tailored in the right way.

Princess Diana

Fashionable is perhaps a rather underrated word if the charismatic princess of Wales is to be thought of.

Imagine, with 3,500 people in the congregation at St. Paul's Cathedral, Another 750 million people watching the ceremony worldwide; this figure rose to a billion when the radio audience is added in, Two million spectators lined the route of Diana's procession from Clarence House.

It took 4,000 police men and 2,200 military officers to manage the crowds, all trying to have the glimpse of a merely 20 year old English female in a puffed sleeved wedding gown with a full skirt of ivory silk pure taffeta, old lace and hand embroidery incorporating 10,000 pearls and sequins.

While Young Diana struggled to make her way up to the aisle carrying a twenty five foot train, innocent and unaware of the burden of expectations she will have to bear from here onwards.

Ever since she became a public figure from the announcement of her engagement to Prince Charles, she remained the focus of constant media scrutiny in not only just the Great Britain but also around world.

With absolutely breathe taking looks and spell bounding figure Lady Diana was a picture perfect face and became an instant hit with photographers hopping around to capture her glimpses. She had been quoted as one of the most photographed face of her times by various magazines and media groups everything she wore, from her Handbags to shoes, Hats and jewelry and even jeans, was scrutinized and commented on.

In fashion Diana had a very personal style statement that reflected and blended very well with her personality, she carried the royal tag of being the crowned princess of Britain with great dignity and therefore every bit of her looks justified the amount of work and personal inputs she used to give before stepping out of the royal premises.

One such example of her impeccable aesthetics sense was seen when she famously came out wearing a pearl brooch rather as a pendant originally given to her by the Queen Elizabeth.

Before her engagement Diana wore little make-up and her dress style was not sophisticated. She liked the comfort clothes that suited her position as an assistant at the Young England Kindergarten.

From the moment of her engagement Princess Diana image was very traditional and very British. How gradually she transformed herself from once being titled as the worst dressed celebrity to the most influential fashion icons of 80-90s is evidently because of the fact that despite of consistent Diana would always remain a woman of her own: listening to advice, but following her own instincts.

By 1990 she was the world leader of fashion and knew exactly how to dress according to the occasion diplomatically.

Romantic ball room gowns

Some of the worlds most talked about gowns were owned by none other than Princess Diana.

Justifying her royal status to the fullest these exquisite ultra feminine pieces were tailored exclusively for the princess by some of her favorite designers of all the times.

During the earlier 1980s and till the 1988s Diana was like any other young British bride and her styling reflected the symptoms of shyness a newly wed carries elegance c part of her personality and life could easily be seen in her dresses specially the gowns she wore

Recession Fashion

Two style and fashion experts help money strapped fashionistas over 40 decide on where to spend or save during the recession.

Keywords: fashion, over 40, recession, accessories, jeans, shoes, jewelry, The Glam Gals, shopping, clothing accessories, shopping clothing, casual fashion, Deborah Boland, JoJami Tyler

We used to live in a world of spend, spend, spend but ever since the recession we're holding onto our fashion dollars just a little bit tighter. Faced with limited cash, you may be looking more closely at what you really want, and more importantly, need to buy in order to look fashionable and hip.

Which items deserve a good portion of your budget and which ones should be inexpensive add-ons? Check out our Skimp or Spend Checklist below to find out.

1. Skimp on Accessories

One sure way to waste money is to buy expensive accessories to complete a look of the moment. Accessories are very important to finish a look, but be careful. It's fine to pay top dollar for a belt you wear all the time but don't waste your money on an expensive belt with a short style life.

2. Spend on the Important Basics

Spending a decent amount on a great classic shirt, a beautiful cashmere sweater and one great white stretch t-shirt is important, even it means paying a higher price. These, along with other wardrobe basics, are investment pieces. The foundation of your wardrobe should be quality staples that will get daily wear; they tend to cost a little more but will certainly be worth it for the amount of wear they will get.

3. Skimp on Casual Shoes

Unless you're buying shoes for work (which need to be the best quality you can find) shoes do not need to be expensive. Go often to your favorite discount shoe stores to get the best offerings. If you are just running around on the weekends, you don't need to wear expensive shoes. Save your money for buying shoes when it really matters, like great work shoes or sneakers to exercise in.

4. Spend on Jeans

The most important thing about jeans is to find a pair that fit you perfectly, regardless of price. Get over the label obsession and keep shopping until you find the perfect pair for your body. Remember, no one will notice the brand of jeans if they're looking at your fabulous figure in perfectly fitting jeans.

5. Spend on a Good Bra

Think of your outfit as a building. Without a good foundation, the whole thing will crumble. Keep this in mind when you go bra shopping, and make sure you get professionally fitted for a bra that will lift and separate. A good bra will make you look taller and thinner by picking the girls up off your tummy and getting them back on your chest where they belong!

6. Skimp on Expensive Jewelry

It's nice to have some high end jewelry, but pearl necklaces and diamond studs can only get you so far. It's more stylish and fun to add costume jewelry to your wardrobe. Big chunky necklaces, flashy cocktail rings, and long dangly earrings add personality to your outfits. You can find great costume jewelry at just about any clothing store. It's the easiest way to add color and excitement to an ensemble.

About the Author

Deborah Boland & JoJami Tyler (The Glam Gals) are Image and Style Experts helping women 40+ look and feel fabulous. They are the creators of the Tweak Your Chic Image Make-Over program and authors of THE TWEAK YOUR CHIC EBOOK SERIES: THE GLAM PLAN, DRESSING THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE AND CHIC ON THE CHEAP.

Fall-Winter Fashion Scarves

The fall/winter seasons are coming and it is time for fashion scarves. As a beautiful accessory, scarves provide both warm-keeping and fashion functions. That is why women love scarves so much.

In the current market, there are not only traditional long shape scarves, but also thicker super long style and also elegant shawl style scarves. Each scarf has its own style and fashion feature. The most important part is that scarves add more lively and amusing to your winter fashion. You have no more scare for the boring winter days any more with the fashion scarves.

The long size scarves are always a favorite for European. They are happy to wear a warm scarf around their necks layer upon layer. Besides warmth, it can also bring you a childish interest. This kind of scarf looks beautiful if go with a sweater. However, fur coats or sweaters with complex patterns are not good choices for those scarves. If that, you look cumbersomely dressed.

The elegant shawl style scarves exhibit women femininity and elegance. Those scarves can be easily transformed with many patterns. You can either simply wear around your neck or just casually cross in the front. Both ways make you unique. Also, a unique pin could add more charming for you. Among the clothing you could pick, skirt dresses are absolutely perfect choices.

The slender long scarves are one of the most traditional style and also the easiest matching model. You can just randomly wrap around your neck and see how great you can be. From the matched dress, both light and deep colors work fabulously. There are tons of ways to wear slender long scarves. For example, a necktie knot is a great choice for scarf tying. It is the same as necktie tying. If you don't know how to do that, ask your husband or your male friends.

Another important scarf style is square scarves in the scarf family. By size, the square scarves can be divided into two classifications: small square scarves and big square scarves. The scarf materials cover a wide range including wool, cotton, polyester, silk, and more. The detailed classification also includes whether scarves have embellishment or whether they have tassels. It has many ways to wear your square scarves, such as head wear or down triangle. More and more people like square scarves and even men are very cool with square scarves.

After you find your favorite scarves, another question is how to wear scarves. Actually the answer could be infinite. How to wear your scarves depends on the following factors: your matched dress, occasion, scarf texture, scarf shape, and more. The appropriate way is to know the basic skill to tie scarves first, such as how to fold scarves and some basic knot guide. You can find the tying instruction online with a video or photo guide or articles. Pick an appropriate way for yourself and experiment until you have a perfect match. Remember, you are your own fashion host. Popularity is not always for everyone and you should find your own fashion choice. As long as it matches well, you will win compliments from your family and your friends.

There are no standard code for fashion scarves on how to select scarves and how to wear scarves. Just check out your favorite scarves and play with them. You will find a right way for yourself and show your fashion favor with your own feature.

Audrey Hepburn

A woman with absolute natural beauty Audrey was tall and slim; her pixie cut hair drew more emphasis to her strong cheekbones and big dark eyes.

A born dancer her early training days brought her a natural elegance adding a simple yet extra flair to her personality.

Simple yet sophisticated style is perhaps an understatement when it comes to describing her looks and style. She always favored cleaner looks and plain colors which earlier were popular among the males; irrespective of that how she managed to look ultra feminine continues to be a mystery even today.

Confident Elegant and incredibly beautiful these are the words that comes to mind once Audrey Hepburn is thought of. It was perhaps her calm elegance and wit she possessed that made her most noted style icon of her times. Its been more then a Decade now but the world has yet not recovered from the steer this Brussels beauty created in the world of fashion, When her image was flashed on the 75 mm silver screen in the famous all black little dress with white gloves and diamonds.

The Breakfast at Tiffanys star made every woman want to have either the entire onsomb or else one of them. Innumerous decades have passed by, but such is her influence that her unique styles are copied even today.

The Audrey Collection

Like everyone else this style icon too had popularized some of the most admired style statements of all the times. Hepburns fashion choices were groundbreaking in her day, but became such an influence that variations on her style are common even nowadays; such was her stature that even today her stylized portraits are imitated and used as graphics by designers.

You name it and she has worn it with great elegance and style such versatile she was when it comes to carrying off a dress be it Capri pants ,Slim trousers ,A black turtleneck ,button-down shirt Ballet flats, The little black dress ,Evening gown (breathtaking, but simple) ,Silk scarf ,Pearls Flashy hat ,Trench coat.

Audrey the Brand Ambassador for LBD.

The first picture that comes to mind while remembering Audrey is certainly that of her Little Black dresses

Coordinated with white opera gloves, accessorized with hats and holding a big cigarette with dark glasses to flaunt.

Coco channel had invented the magical little black dresses but it was Audrey who should be called the unofficial brand ambassador of the LBD.

Global Luxury Market Foresees Recovery

A recent survey states that global millionaires have increased to 8.2 million. So, whats the market for luxury products?

''Luxury' is a broader segment than what anyone can define. It includes various products ranging from clothes, footwear, jewellery, watches, leather goods, and many others. Global luxury market is now undergoing rapid transformation. Industry analysts predict the market to grow and reach $2 trillion USD by 2010, of which US alone will constitute 50% of the worldwide market.

Luxury market is currently on the growth trajectory and is seeing a continuous exuberance. Many aspects contribute to the dynamism of the market. Changes in the income level of the people, increasing families with dual income, and transformations in the preferences, and life style of the consumers have attributed to this change. Strong polarizations of the buyers for specific products also influence the market. Individual, personalized, high-touch and a highly customized marketing satisfying the needs of the customers lure them to buy the products.

Luxury Apparels and Designer wears:

Global market for luxury apparels is seeing a growth of 15% per annum. This is higher comparatively over the growth of other apparels. Growth will be fuelled by various countries with growing economies whose consumption for luxury products outweigh salary and luxury options. EU and US will continue to set global trends.

Fashionable designer wears are no longer available only for celebrities. Fashion trends are now global due to the awareness created by media, and globalization, moving beyond class and social status. The segment is benefited by increase in disposable incomes, postponement of marriage, and growing number of individual families with dual income. Even people who are not from the creamer sections of the society will try to have a couple of signature luxury apparels in their wardrobes.

Key Players of the Luxury Segment:

Luxury brand owners are actively gearing up to meet the challenges of the ongoing recession, and the competition for the coming year. Middle East sees good potential for luxury products with a predicted growth rate of 2%. Giorgio Armani and Gucci are the most desirable brands followed by Versace, and Christian Dior. Polo Ralph, Coach, Louis Vuitton, Couture, and Tiffany & Co, are a few more prominent brands in the market. Brands are reassessing their market strategies to take tackle the down turn and come out even stronger than before.

However growth prospects the industry sees, still, the industry is not an unmixed blessing. The impact of global turmoil, the pangs of financial crisis has affected the luxury market as well. High operational costs and intense competition due to globalization pose a real threat to the luxury retailers. To ride the tide, brands cut their overhead costs, while retailers are investing in the products of customers choice with a hope of recovery.

Worldwide market for luxury items is expected to reach a prominent position in the global arena, and is further anticipated to remain so, as affluent customers have enough money, and time to indulge themselves in opulence.