What does user-generated fashion mean? It means that you and I – people with no experience in fashion design (well, except the designers that read this blog) can impact what clothes are made, what styles are produced, and what merchandise is bought in stores, etc. Thanks to technology and social media, fashion websites, designers and companies are reaching out to the general fashion-savvy public for input instead of relying solely on creative directors, stylists and buyers. Here are some examples of user-generated fashion from luxury fashion designers to fashion websites to independent boutiques:
For New York Fashion Week, Derek Lam partnered with Ebay and debuted dresses from his collection at NYFW and on Ebay. He then let people vote on which dresses should be put on sale in Derek Lam’s ebay shop.
I’m sure you are all familiar with Polyvore. By creating sets and collages about fashion and outfits, anyone can be a fashion stylist. They also have an advice section of the site where you can ask for fashion advice or give advice on fashion.
ModCloth is a really great online shop that sells trendy clothes and accessories from independent designers. If you’ve never heard of it, go to the site! Well ModCloth has a program called “Be the Buyer” where they post images of clothes that the buyers are thinking of purchasing. Instead of making the decision for themselves, ordering the inventory and hoping it sells, they ask anyone who visits the site which clothes they like and think will sell. The items with the most votes get purchased and added to the ModCloth shop!
Have you participated in any of these or other user-generated fashion sites or programs? Do you think we’ll be seeing more of less of them in the future?
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9 Comments
I think it is an interesting concept and blends well with the social trend on the Internet. I recently also reviewed useabrand.com, who are hosting a monthly competition of user-generated designs on their Web site.
Thanks Miss Viki – yes, I remember reading about that useabrand concept on your site, which is also an interesting way of getting people involved in design.
It is such an interesting idea – And I think some retailers are really considering ways they can incorporate it into their business model. Think about it – if you customers tell you exactly what they want to buy, and you provide it….bingo!
Yup, totally agree Kristen. And your customers are you going to be more likely to come back and feel connected to the brand when they are heard.
I am thrilled with this new concept which I have been seeing as well in jewelry and other items besides fashion. As someone who always led in fashion sense, it’s refreshing to see people striving for individuality instead of following the masses. Back in high school and college I got laughed at a lot for wearing vintage and creating my own style. It’s nice that the youth of today won’t have to go through that and can express who they are if they desire. I think a lot of designers are picking up on that vibe and defintely get their ideas and direction from indie driven minds.