Points to consider 1

Following Market Awareness lecture with Tiffany:

- Importance of ethical sustainability in ideas - I am considering using organic fabrics but i must consider cost implications of this. This will also come from market research as i need to establish what kind of level i am aiming at as the price of organic fabric is increasing so might make my garments unattainable for my consumer. 

- It is predicted that in the next 10 years online shopping will increase by 350%. Consider website as part of project? One idea is to have the range of prints online and people can pick which 2 they want for each side of the dress. Unrealistic at this stage due to cost implications (every garment would have to be made to order) but idea for development.

- Rise in social networking, m-commerce etc - use these to my advantage to get people talking about the brand. I am aiming at a lifestyle rather than an age range but i could target the younger side through these means. Eg facebook page - useful way of getting feedback as quick, easy to use and as most of my peers have it and log on frequently it is a convenient way for them to give their opinion. 

- Return to heritage/british fabrics - although this is current at the moment and definitly something to be considered, i want to create garments which are fashionable but not too trend driven so they will still be relevant and wearable season after season which also relates to....

- 'Recession Concussion' - people are buying less (75% of fashion consumers have cut back their spending since the recession) and want more for their money and better quality. By offering 2 garments in 1 people are getting something more diverse, value for money and with that little something extra. People don't want throw away fashion any more. The amount of times i have bought an item which i love and wish i had in every colour, and people will be getting that kind of appeal with my garments - once they find the cut/style that suits them they will get 2 looks out of it. I must give my consumer a reason to buy my product as people are impulse buying less and less. 

- 'Grey market' - 1 in 4 of those 55+ purchase goods that are trend driven. As i am aiming at a lifestyle rather than a set age range it is important that i consider the older end of the scale to ensure i meet their needs also. I don't think this will compromise design as it is not as thought i am aiming at everyone say 40+, just those who follow the kind of beach/rural culture and lifestyle.

- Listen to customer, react to what they say, don't be afraid to admit you have done something wrong as customers will talk to their friends, family, colleagues etc and it is important that they are saying positive things if i want my brand to be successful.