MBF Blogger Picks

It's crazy to think that today bloggers are just as credible as the most prominent magazine editors. Designers are giving them front row access to shows and sending them clothing samples to be featured on their blogs. Their voice matters and some of their followings are incredible. Many of them have transformed a simple hobby into an entire lifestyle as they branch out to become consultants, socialites and even brand ambassadors and models. From fashion to food, they inspire us and represent a new breed of celebrities as well as the future of traditional reporting and writing.

photo via Haute Inhabit

Haute Inhabit

For blogger Lainy Alexandra Hedaya it's not just about personal style, but upcoming trends, runway shows, outfit and interior inspirations, and other fashion/lifestyle related topics as well. Her motto,  "redefining modern elegance" is more than apparent through her selective taste and dedication to sticking to her style, not what people send her to wear. She has even created a Haute Inhabit avatar to represent the trends of the season based on what fashion's top designers have sent down the runway.

photo via The Sunday Girl

The Sunday Girl

If you're overwhelmed by the endless amount of different beauty products out there, this UK based blog offers 100% honest and unbiased reviews to conquer all your beauty crazed questions, concerns and thoughts (there's even a disclaimer!). From Chanel, MAC and Topshop to products from your local drugstore, her fearless skin, hair and nails try it all! She also offers weekly staple products, giveaways and monthly favorite picks covering all the newest and hottest products out there. 

photo via How Sweet It Is

How Sweet It Is

No blog list is complete without at least one pick dedicated to food. Whether you're in the mood for healthy recipes, comfort foods or scrumptious desserts, Pittsburgh based blogger Jessica tries to keep things local and seasonal when she can. While she has no formal culinary training, she has a cookbook set to launch in 2014 and we don't know about you but if it tastes good, that's all we need to know! 

photo via LopezJennyLopez

LopezJennyLopez

Brought to you in both English and Spanish, Colombian swimsuit model Jenny Lopez fuses her unique bohemian style by mixing various price points and decades into fashion, beauty, home decor and travel as readers follow her along on her adventures. In addition, she is designing a jewelry line called Momposina Rocks which combines silver and brass with different findings from around the world. 

photo via Censational Girl

Censational Girl

By keeping "fabulous for less" in mind, this blog is dedicated to your inner DIY bargain hunter. Through a combination of tricks, tips and tutorials, Kate, who also writes a design column for Better Homes and Gardens, teaches readers how to successfully and stylishly decorate on a budget. She reaches an average of 1.9 million pageviews per month, has been featured in a plethora of magazines, and worked closely with brands and retailers like Lowes and Home Depot to West Elm and Donna Karan Home. Who says style can't be affordable?

photo via Lily Kwong

Lily Kwong

Model and blogger Lily Kwong incorporates an impeccable mix of sophistication and eclectic looks into everything she does. Her blog invites readers along on all her fashion related events she attends to give us an inside view into her life as a socialite. Not only is she a Vogue favorite, but cousin to designer Joseph Altuzarra, who she frequently collaborates with. 

video via Elite Daily

Nasty Gal
Nasty Gal has been all over the press lately and this online fashion phenomenon's following continues to explode with over 621,000 Facebook fans and 550,000 average monthly users. Their blog not only posts inspirational images and gives us a glimpse into the Nasty Gal shopper from style to music, movies, models, and California life, but also a behind the scenes look into the infamous Sophia Amoruso and the rest of the Nasty Gal family.

"It's Not About the Destination, It's About the Journey" Part II

Towards the end of 2012 we took you to Seattle, Costa de la Luz and Edinburgh. With Spring on its way this week, we thought we'd inspire you with some more of our travels!

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

1. Capri, Italy

While it may be a bit of a trip to get to Capri, it's totally worth it! From a flight out of Naples to a cab to the Beverello port to a ferry to the island followed by a 5 minute ride on the Funicular, you'll find yourself right in the center of the city at the famous "Piazzetta," where you can enjoy a view of the beautiful landscape of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Since the fall of the Roman Empire, Capri has been a destination of relaxation, good eats, and a place to admire the greatness of nature. It's also a source of amazing activities like fishing and swimming in the clear, turquoise waters, exploring hidden coves, deep gorges and enchanting bays, or maybe even for falling in love.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

The majestic Hotel Scalinatella, was established in the 1950s and is run by the Morgano family, whom are credited for running the best hotels on the island. Located along the Via Tragara and its fragrant gardens, this boutique hotel is like living in a dream with its amazing Moorish facade and terrace, perfect for a sunny breakfast overlooking the sea.

No trip to Capri is complete without visiting the Grotta Azzurra, the Faraglioni rocks and the Monacone stump, which are accessible via several boat tours or if you are feeling like a brave sailor, rent a boat on your own and navigate through the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Don't forget to take your scarf and big sunglasses, just like Jackie Onassis did back in the late 60's!

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

While near the Sorrentine peninsula, you might as well visit Pompeii which is a ferry ride to Sorrento and a train ride called the circumvesuviana away, and runs around the base of Mount Vesuvius. Pompeii, which was once an ancient Roman city until 76AD when mount Vesuvius erupted and buried the city under the 13 feet of ash and pumice, was known for its high economical level as well as a major source of entertainment. The city was lost for nearly 1700 years until it was rediscovered in 1748 and now remains a common place of excavation projects and historic landmarks like the Foro, Apollo's Temple and Anfiteatro. Despite, Pompeii is an attraction worth visiting with its well conserved ruins, historic significance and hot weather that gets you craving a sorrentine lemon flavored granita every time!

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

2. Istanbul, Turkey

Having the best of both worlds is such a Turkish thing and who wouldn't want that? Spanning both Asia and Europe and divided by the Bosphorus, Istanbul is becoming a great destination for travelers who want to see a very interesting mix of culture, history and people.

Considered the modern Constantinople, Istanbul is home to the most extraordinary treasures from ancient civilizations in the Topkapi Palace which is full of such relics as the Topkai dagger, the Spoonmaker's Diamond, Moses' rod, Abraham's saucepan, John the Baptist's hand and Mohammed's footprint, one of his teeth and a selection of his beard hairs. However, this palace is more than just a place of treasure and features a fabulous Turkish lunch spot just in front of the Marmara Sea.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

One of the most unique things to do in Istanbul is to take a cruise into the Bosphorus and stand in the middle of the two continents while smoking nargile (a water pipe) with an exotic flavored tobacco. Near the Bosphorus are a plethora of restaurants serving fresh fish caught in the morning and as the sunset calls people to prayer, turn your focus to the river at night to watch one of the most picturesque views of the river, moon and mosque towers.

Did we mention Istanbul is a great shopping destination as well? Turkey, being a world leader in textile manufacturing, is the perfect place to find great home accessories and quality clothing. Not to mention, the Grand Bazaar is a 500 year old covered market filled with over 5,000 vendors who are bargaining prices and goods.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

So say your prayers three times during the day and make sure to climb to the top of Galata Tower as the Muslim ritual rings throughout the city. Visit the Blue Mosque, the New Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, which used to be the basilica during the Roman Empire and later became a mosque in the Ottoman Empire. Here's a quick tip...pack socks and a scarf because you may be asked to take your shoes off and cover your head!

Despite all the history, Istanbul has many 21st century aspects as well located in Beyoglu which is full of chic boutiques and the best "mayhanes," or traditional eating houses. If you are looking to stay in style, The House Hotel in Nisantasi is located right above Prada and is the homiest of accommodations with soft lights, coffee tables and bookshelves. While the days are fun here, so are the nights and if you are looking for a fun night out, 360 is the place to be. Located over the Misir Apartments, this rooftop bar and restaurant has amazing dinner cuisines and cocktails all complimented by the city illuminated by night.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

3. Medellín, Colombia

Nicknamed "Land of Eternal Spring" because of its warm days and cool nights, Medellín is the perfect city for all you outdoor lovers. From the breathless Botanical Gardens tucked in the center of the city to Parque de los Pes Descalzos, a great spot to kick off your shoes and walk around barefoot, take some time to enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings. One of the newest and most popular additions, Parque Arvi, is assessable via a metro cable that takes you to the top of the city and into the park for a combination of spectacular views and adventure.

While you're in Medellín you have to go to one of the most visited areas in the entire city, El Parque Lleras. The beautiful park is lined with high-end clothing stores and small eateries that portray a very modern Colombia. Grab lunch at one of the vegetarian and vegan restaurants like Verdeo or Ceres Organic Market. For typical Colombian cuisine, visit Oscar de la Renta's favorite, Ajiacos y Mondongos, where the wait may be long but it's totally worth it! By night, get your rock'n'roll on at the popular club Blue and stay at the very chic and up and coming hotel, The Charlee, which was featured on Condé Nast Traveler's Hot List for best new hotels in 2012.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

If you're looking to get your fill on some traditional Colombian culture, El Pueblito Paisa is a small replica of colonial times and takes you back in history without ever leaving the modern city. Not to mention, there are plenty of museums from the Museo de Arte Moderno Medellín to the Museo de Antioquia, which contains original sculptures and paintings from the famous Medellín artist, Fernando Botero. While in the Botero mood, make sure to check out the Plaza Botero which is filled with more sculptures and located right along the Museo de Antioquia.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

Take a stroll through the trendy Parque El Poblado and watch it come alive after dark with everyone from tourists to the city's youth. There are plenty of bars that even allow you to grab a drink to go so you can relax in the park and hang with friends. Looking for a midnight snack? Grab some late night fast food Colombian style with salchipapas, hamburgers, hotdogs or arepas. End the night at the nearby Donde Chepe, a local spot where they serve unique shots and cocktails and plenty of interesting company.

What are some of your favorite places you've traveled? There will be more to come soon so stayed tuned...

GQ's Best New Menswear Designer in America

We're thrilled to note that one of our Salon participants has just been named Best New Menswear Designer in America for 2013 by GQ...

photo via GQ

Congratulations to everyone at Ernest Alexander!

Expectations vs. Reality

We recently had a conversation in the office about the hit show “Girls” and how accurately it represents its Gen Y counter group. After Lena Dunham’s wins at the Golden Globes for Best Actress in a Comedy Series and Best TV Comedy, we started asking ourselves, is this show realistic of the lives of its 20-something Millenial viewers? Who is this generation and what are they all about?

photo via USA Today

For most Gen Y-ers, life is about experiences. Whether its traveling, embarking on a career path or following a dream, they are just trying to figure it all out. With a struggling economy, competitive employment and tons of debt, life isn't that easy and these Millenials definitely take it much more seriously than some come to believe. According to USA Today, those aged 18-33 suffer from higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression than their elders. The problem lies in the fact that this generation was raised being told to follow their dreams and that they can do anything they set their minds to. As these Millenials grow up a bit, they are beginning to experience a huge wake up call...that it's not that simple, but no pressure, right?

photo via Refinery 29

Although, they do have one thing on their side, social media. From growing up on Myspace and AIM to Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, Blogger, Tumblr, Instagram, LinkedIn and now Pinterest, they understand this new way of connecting better than any other generation. With the help of these platforms, Gen Y-ers are finding new ways to make their dreams a reality. Today, everyone is given a voice and the ability to put it out there. Anyone can make music, films, art, fashion, blog or be an entrepreneur in the global online world. The difficult part lies in the ability to stand out from the rest of the online international community and for this generation being unique is highly valued. There is one very distinctive thing these Millenials have done that no other generation has ever done before and that's creating their own service economy among people of the same age bracket. This attribute gives Gen Y not only power in the market but who better understands their needs, wants and demands better than themselves?

photo via Business Insider

As many of you know, mobile phones are more crucial to this generation than any other before them. This group depends on these devices to remain constantly "in the know" through calling, emailing, texting, facebooking, tweeting, instagramming and of course video chatting. Facebook and blogs have literally become digital diaries and scrapbooks for this generation who highly values the thoughts and comments of their peers. They grew up in front of computers so where they get inspiration from and how they use their imagination is much more clever because of the tools they have access to.

Overall, everything has gone much more public, which at times can be challenging. It's easy to stay connected and now with new technology, there's also a way to remain disconnected, when you choose to. For instance, Killswitch, which was released on Valentine's Day, is basically the digital version of discarding of your ex's things and removes all traces of him or her from your Facebook after a breakup. Another app, Ex-Lover Blocker, notifies your friends whenever you try to contact an ex and the site, Never Liked It Anyway, gives you a less painful way of ridding your offline life of gifts from a former relationship and make some money in the meantime.

photo via The Guardian

These Gen Y-ers, were not only raised in a technology friendly environment, but were the first generation to really be taught sustainability concepts in school. As this group continues to age, the importance of living eco-consciously is becoming further engrained in their lifestyles. When they can afford it, they buy sustainable products, but still many fall victim to trendy and cheap fast fashion. They get bored fast and still don't make much money, however their ideals remain and are beginning to challenge fast fashion retail to be more eco-friendly. Their beliefs that all products in general should embrace this type of consciousness will continue to shape the sustainable marketplace and hopefully bring it forward for future generations to come.

photo via Treasure & Bond

Every generation has a different set of hardships. Whether we think the show "Girls" accurately represents the mindset and lifestyle of this generation? We're still undecided! However, everything is changing so quickly for these Gen Y-ers that it's hard to keep up. We don't know what's going to happen anymore so Millenials are forced to think in a much more short term mindset and get a bit more creative with how they live their lives in the process. Forget saving for retirement and social security. Forget 9-5's and corporate culture. This group is living in the now. They make their own schedules by working freelance and choose to work for smaller, ethical start-ups and be a part of a community. And if they don't know what something is or how to do a task, they google it and teach themselves. They are confident, tech-savvy multi-taskers and despite being dreamers, they have expectations and one day, they will make them a reality.

What's Your Story?

Who doesn't love a great story? We know we do! And in today's retail environment, the significance of a story to your concept is more than crucial. It's all about the who, what, where, why and how of your brand. With the ability for consumers to get practically anything from around the world via the internet, they want to know they're buying something special. We are no longer limited to what brick and mortar stores in our local area offer, but an endless amount of online stores and plethora of products in the international marketplace. Our values are changing and preserving a sense of community, even online, remains key especially in the vast world of the internet.

photo via Culture Baby

Culture Baby is an online global children's boutique that not only sells clothes, toys and accessories for your favorite little ones, but celebrates cultural heritage from around the world. They strongly believe that children should know about the world they are living in and what better way than to wear and play in it? From Africa, Asia, South America, Europe and the USA these carefully selected products are made from an array of international entrepreneurs and designers. Culture Baby takes it even one step further by offering non-toxic and organic items as well as sustainable, ethical and fair-trade merchandise. We spoke about the importance of going global a few posts ago and we feel this brand is a major innovator in the international children's wear arena, especially since children love a good story even more than adults!

photo via The Sinclair

If you're in the Boston area in the near future, make sure to grab a bite at The Sinclair Kitchen. This music venue now doubles as a trendy restaurant to your pre-concert evening out and offers delightful eats under Chef Michael Schlow's expertise. The venue which is part of The Bowery Presents, is influenced by the likes of New York, California and New Orleans. With communal tables, a fantastic bar downstairs and a more traditional dining atmosphere upstairs, this spot tells the perfect story of food, drink and music.

video via Made by Hand

There's nothing more special than handmade products. Martinez Cigars, started in 1974, hand roll all their cigars at a factory right here in New York on 29th street. Not only was this craft passed down from father to son, but today it has become a neighbor meeting place for a fine cigar, friendly face and good story.

photo via Alkemie

Last week we stopped by the Designers & Agents international trade show to check out some of the most innovative emerging brands out there. One of the first ones to grab our attention was Alkemie, a socially and environmentally responsible jewelry brand brought to life by a lovely husband and wife duo who both come from former jewelry backgrounds. Their entire collection is handmade in LA and made of 100% reclaimed metals and sustainable and earth-friendly dyed leathers. So far they have been featured in editorials in Spanish Vogue, French Elle, Lucky, WWD and Spin Magazine, to name a few. Most of their pieces are priced under $200 and sold at one of our favorite shops, Treasure & Bond!

photo via Alkemie

While chatting with the couple, we couldn't take our eyes off of Ashley's really hip East West Musical Instruments jacket, deemed the back pack jacket so motorcyclists had an extra pocket while riding. But what's really interesting is Ashely's story about how he had to get it...About 15 years ago, he went to an East West collector in LA and in order to get the jacket he had to find another collectible East West jacket to trade it for, which took him over a year to do. East West Musical Instruments originally started by making instruments and then one day decided to make a fringed leather shirt, which quickly sold to the iconic Janis Joplin. From there it was fashion history and they expanded to make unique leather jackets, pants, shirts and bags that sold to the likes of Jerry Garcia, Robert Plant and Elvis Presley, among many other rock legends. How's that for some music history?

photo via Kempton & Co.

Looking for a new "it" bag? Kempton & Co just may be it! These one of a kind, technology friendly bags are made of vintage materials like linen and hemp. The Deceiver bag collection (our personal favorite) sparked from designer Fiona Kempton's idea to give her stylish handbags a built in protective sleeve for laptops. Some of her other versions are adorned with sewn in wallets, iPad holders and special compartments for your keys so you can now travel with ease. Their first shop is set to launch this Spring in Brooklyn and will feature custom work, monogramming on small leather goods and even some other brands, for men too, so stay tuned!

photo via Susan Woo

Based in New York with a focus on both luxury and sustainability, Susan Woo stands by the fact that "luxury equals thought and consideration." She uses natural and organic silks, wools and jersey blends, which she believes are synonymous with high quality and a modern way of living. To her, "fast fashion is buying a look" and "luxury fashion is story telling." If that's so, we definitely want to see the sequel to this story!

It's all about the stories we tell. Where does it all come from and how? We are more informed these days and with that we ask more questions. It's no longer just about the ending, but the entire process from concept to creation to the end user. Your story is your mark on the world. We all have a unique story to tell that makes us stand out from the rest, it just has to be told in the right way, at the right time. So, what's your story?

Time To Reform

With two stores in New York, one in LA and a growing online presence, the environmentally sustainable brand, The Reformation is taking "a new approach to fashion." Recently, we spoke with Creative Director Yael Aflalo about what this unique concept is really all about and what the future holds for the label.

photo via The Reformation

MBF: Please tell us a bit about your background. How did the store concept come about? What are the thoughts behind it?

Yael Aflalo: I’ve worked in the fashion industry for almost 15 years. I started my first clothing line, Ya-Ya when I was 19 and after ten years of running the company, I became disillusioned with the waste created by fashion brands, which included my own. This pushed me to launch a more environmentally responsible way of creating fashion, which began with a small Reformation store on 3rd Street in Los Angeles.

Reformation is a new approach to fashion. We believe that design, value and sustainability can coexist. We want to provide our customers with styles that generate a fraction of the environmental impact created by most fashion brands without sacrificing any element of design and providing these at accessible price points.

Our styles are limited-edition and we manufacture all of these at our downtown Los Angeles factory. This allows us to release designs that reflect the latest fashion trends. By cutting out the middleman and selling through our own boutiques and online store, we are able to control costs and pass these savings to our customers. We also source vintage garments and sustainable fabrics and incorporate green practices throughout our supply chain.

photo via The Reformation

MBF: Tell us more about your in-store products…how and where are they manufactured? What about the vintage pieces? Where do you source them?

YA: In our stores, we carry two lines of clothing. One is our Collection, which includes pieces that are all designed by me and our head designer. These are manufactured in our factory in Los Angeles. We collect design inspiration and use it as a basis to create the clothing that we all love to wear. We repurpose vintage garments, which we source from rag houses, to make a subset of our Collection. For the remainder, we use deadstock and surplus fabrics, which are sourced from fabric houses across the country. We are in the process of introducing sustainable fabrics to make our designs and we are excited about the first order we just placed!

Our second line, Vintage, includes vintage pieces that are sourced from various buyers across the country. They scour flea markets, vintage shows and secret places they won’t tell us about!

MBF: We hear you have a newly created wholesale division, who are some of your clients?

YA: We currently have a wholesale business with Urban Outfitters, and are working on a few collaborations that will be rolled out over the next few months. Stay tuned!

photo via The Reformation

MBF: Can you tell us about your customer? Do they come in specifically asking about the sustainable aspect of your store concept? Are people familiar with that particular concept?

YA: Our customer appreciates bold, provocative design, but also loves her basic closet pieces. She is looking for unique pieces that aren’t mass-produced. Our customers range in age from 18 to 45 – we have a lot of moms and their daughters shopping together! The Reformation consumer is not willing to compromise looking good for doing good, so our strong designs are a critical complement to our green process. In general, our customers aren’t necessarily buying our products because of the green aspect of our brand, however, more and more girls are reaching out and telling us how much our mission resonates with them! We believe as we continue to demonstrate that green fashion can be both beautifully designed and accessible, our consumer following will only increase.

MBF: What are the most important channels for marketing your shop concept?

YA: I think digital channels are the most important and where our message has been communicated best. Given the cult following of our brand, the frequent engagement through social media is important to our customers. We also launch new products constantly, and digital channels are a great way to share these releases.

photo via The Reformation

MBF: How do you keep up with design inspirations?

YA: I think the important thing is to always be open and aware of everything. Looking at people on the street, paying attention to the clothes in movies, going into stores and seeing what other people are doing. If you keep your eyes open to your surroundings there is always inspiration around.

MBF: You presently have three stores, what are your future expansion plans?

YA: We are focused on building our online business and I believe it’s such a powerful channel to communicate our brand message worldwide. We are open to expanding our physical store presence down the line, but right now we really want to make our website an amazing experience for our customers!

Go Global or GO HOME!

Well, it's that time of the year again...fashion week and this season it's all about online! We are moving (quicker than we realize) towards a global lifestyle and regardless of where we are sitting from around the world, we can still stay informed. Here at MBF, we are officially moving up to the cloud so we can work anywhere, at anytime.

From catwalk to computer screen, a global audience of consumers now has front row access right there with fashion's finest as we shift towards a completely virtual fashion experience. Just think about the growing number of fashion bloggers in attendance and how they have become just as important as any buyer, editor or socialite. The two fashion worlds, online and offline, are blending in full force.

photo via Mashable

Do designers finally have fashion and technology working in their favor? Live-streaming has pretty much become the status quo as we begin to forget what it actually feels like to physically be at a live show. If you remember back in the 1950's it was forbidden to even sketch the looks let alone photograph them and today, we have instant viewing while the show is still in progress like on style.com. Topshop and Google team up to take it one step further with "The Future of the Fashion Show" which allows viewers to see the show from all different points of view whether on the runway, backstage or front row. WWD has even partnered with Paper by FiftyThree to compile live-sketches from select shows at NYFW including the likes of Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, DVF, Oscar de la Renta, J. Crew, Calvin Klein and Alexander Wang. It's all about finding new ways to enhance the online experience.

photo via NY Times

Through this instant technology, designers and brands are cutting out the middleman and going straight to consumers via online platforms and social media like Twitter. Now companies like Belstaff, can use data analytics to predict what items will hit stores based on their web viewers favorite looks. They now have the ability to tap into what consumers are watching, from where, which devices and for how long as well as which looks consumers pause for. This information is also revolutionizing brands' e-commerce platforms which can now be fine tuned depending on each country's clicks and viewing preferences.

photo via Elle UK

Not to mention, through sites like Moda Operandi and Lyst, which pre-sell runway clothes as the shows are live streaming, brands have move available insight into what will sell in the future and what pieces to produce more of. Burberry recently launched a new "Made to Order" initiative which gives their global consumers the opportunity to purchase and personalize outerwear and handbags as they are shown on the catwalk. Forget buyers, agents and consulting agencies, consumers have the power to decide what's in store now!

photo via Elle

Just look at how consumer buying habits are affecting all our industries. Magazines like Elle now offer free iPad apps when you subscribe. Best Buy and Barnes & Noble are severely hurting since we don't buy tangible media anymore; we download and stream everything. Television is being replaced with online TV and web series like "House of Cards." And do land lines still exist? Barely. The computer is even disappearing as smartphones just get smarter.

photo via WWD

So what does this mean for the fashion industry? Well first of all, this access to the latest trends fuels both the fast fashion and knockoff industries even more than before. Not to mention, with growing direct-to-consumer business, will we even need sales agents or showrooms anymore? This could possibly be foreshadowing the eventual extinction of apparel trade shows or at least major updating to adjust to the fast changing industry. And now with the middleman gone, will these brands pass on this margin to their customers? As our retail business models evolve, the entire way we position our price structures is going to have to change too. While some retailers continue to focus primarily on their brick and mortar expansion, they better take another look at their strength in the online community because this is the future of fashion. We are living in it right now and there's nowhere to go but global.

What are your favorite looks from fashion week thus far? Make sure to check out some of our personal highlights from the runway on our Pinterest page and "like" us on Facebook to stay "in the know" with all the latest happenings in the industry!

The Fast & The Furious

We’ve attended some events over the past few weeks regarding fast fashion and incorporating sustainable business practices into a fast fashion retail model. We are at the point where fashion has just gotten too fast. What you see on the runway, is available right off the catwalk and just weeks later you can spot knock-off versions in fast fashion shop windows. At the fabric trade shows, suppliers will be showing S/S 2014 and buyers will be purchasing these collections for S/S 2013. When is enough enough? Where is the breaking point? Our conclusion, we are going to have to cease making things so quickly and for so cheap.

photo via WWD

What are we doing speeding everything up – with new deliveries every two weeks? The people producing these goods are working under inhumane conditions which as of late, has become critically publicized by the media. Look at the recent factory fires in Bangladesh where 7 were killed and nearly 15 injured, all for the sake of what? A $29.99 dress? In response, companies are reacting with politically correct public statements revealing their changing practices in fear of suffering major monetary backlashes. A new sense of awareness is finally being raised as consumers buying these inexpensive garments are beginning to be more conscious about what it means to shop at such low price points.

However, there is hope as countries like China have made astounding leaps of growth with a push for improved worker's rights, wage increases and the emergence of unions. Due to this, many companies have shifted their production to other countries like that of Bangladesh, which will hopefully follow in China's footsteps towards better working conditions over the next few years. Which country will companies manufacture in then?

photo via RFID Journal

Through the help of technology alone, the entire manufacturing process is experiencing revolutionary changes. Affirm Heart Far East is a Chinese apparel manufacturer who manages their fast fashion production by using a RFID-based Apparel Management Expert (RAME) solution to track products from concept to finished product! This system indicates how long the production process takes per item, potential threats of delay as well as which workstations operate most efficiently.

photo via WSJ

In the name of fast fashion, even something as crucial to the entire apparel making process as the industrial sewing machine is finally getting an update. Sunstar Machinery Co., a factory based in Seoul and the largest manufacturer of these machines has been producing both sewing and embroidery machines with built in computers and displays. Theses machines not only track garments as they are being made and offer real time feedback, but also help improve efficiency by controlling the stitch, needle pressure and speed.

photo via The Business of Fashion

While changes at the production level are the most detrimental and involve the most pressure due to the contribution of people actually behind the making of, this desire for "fastness" is hitting everything from the runway to retail. KCD recently announced that their Digital Fashion Shows, which was once solely an industry exclusive platform, has gone public. This unrestricted digital front row access represents the future of the catwalk and offers a more affordable and viral alternative as many designers veer to hold their collection debuts in showrooms or at fashion parties to save money.

video via Rebecca Minoff

The explosion of social media pretty much goes hand in hand with the success of fast fashion. Over the past few years, Instagram has become a major driver for brand awareness just as Facebook has for boosting sales. Therefore sites like Fashion GPS, Olapic and Fohr Card have emerged to help brands track this data and eventually understand how to convert social media and website traffic into actual sales. Brands like Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Coach, Burberry and Sephora are all experimenting with how to take this scientific data and translate it into visible revenue. Rebecca Minkoff not only has a presence on both platforms, Instagram and Facebook, but also participates in Facebook advertising and recently launched a youtube video with Leandra Medine of the Man Repeller which reached more than 129,000 views since launching on January 9th. As the industry shifts to more digital solutions, more brands will begin to understand the importance of investing in their online presence to understand consumer insight.

photo via Hukkster

Despite the changing marketing strategies of retailers, consumers may still be one step ahead, at least when it comes to getting a good deal. Cutting-edge tools like one from Citibank's Citi Card, are beginning to emerge to help shoppers monitor sales and price drops as soon as they change. Hukkster, is one of the best examples of this as shoppers can now "hukk it" and they will be alerted when the price changes on any specific item, at any given time.

What it comes down to is, fashion is fast but the news is faster. With that said, it's great to be on it trend-wise, but you have to do it right because you can't get away with it anymore. The problem lies in the fact that we are a society driven by consumerism. We live to buy "stuff." Typically, fast fashion is bought by teenagers and for them, it's all about looking cool and trendy versus being politically correct. Not to mention, as you know, the internet and social media makes everything available in a matter of seconds, whether it be news related or the latest "it" product. However, things are evolving and for the better as we continue to experiment and learn from our mistakes. Unfortunately just like the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist fire, sometimes it takes a tragedy for us to actually wake up and change. Hopefully, moving forward as a whole, we will make more conscious decisions from concept to consumer throughout the supply chain and gradually slow our speed down. 

Auspicious year of the Snake!

To all of our friends and colleagues in Asia, wishing you an auspicious year of the Snake! And a joyous celebration with friends, family and colleagues.

Your MBF Team!

Fashion's Superpowers

The retail arena is shifting so much from one day to the next that it's hard to keep up! Sights that were once solely on Europe and the U.S. have now shifted to include Asia and South America, as new emerging markets dominate the scene. The world's super powers are changing so who should you keep an eye out for now?

photo via zimbio

Despite the European crisis, Germany continues to stand strong with more than three quarters of consumers feeling optimistic about what's to come in 2013. International retailers seem to be feeling the same as their rapid expansion into Germany is nowhere near slowing down. Shops are popping up all over the country from Berlin to Frankfurt to Hamburg and Munich as brands like Primark, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, Barbour, Club Monaco, Belstaff and Moncler, among many many more, push growth. Meanwhile, U.K. based retailers like Debenham's and Topman recently launched online stores in the country.

photo via WWD

We began to see a fashion presence from India all over the Spring 2013 runway, which is just one of many signs reflecting India's growing strength as a market. With the launch of the first Indian Apparel trade show here in NY and an increasing number of India-based NGO's in effect like Project Renaissance, Indian textile exports are about to see a major global boom. Over the past few months, major retailers have moved into the world's second most populated country like Superdry in Mumbai and Roberto Cavalli launching in New Delhi. Not to mention, Loreal plans to heavily focus on the Indian market as they invest over $200 million in manufacturing, distribution and research and development. Keep an eye out for this one!

photo via NY Times

Africa is another source of major design inspiration exhibited not only on the runway from the past few seasons but heavily at this season's fabric trade shows as well. This promising market, which is developing similarly to that of China and most recently Brazil, definitely has a lot of potential, but it just isn't quite there yet. While the money seems to be there, the wealthy invest it elsewhere in Europe or New York, rather than back into their native land. Despite, retail and tourism are developing and the population has the ability to remain plugged into the latest trends via the internet. We recommend you get your fill with a pair of vintage-looking "Made in Africa" Sawa sneakers sold at J.Crew now!

photo via WWD

Latin America is also on the watch list as Sephora, who just opened their 6th store in Mexico City in November, looks to add at least 50 new stores to the region by 2016. The major makeup specialty chain which has been expanding in Brazil as well, plans to launch three more stores in Sao Paulo over the next few months. For a beauty obsessed culture like that of Latin America, it is no surprise that Sephora has set their sights here and eventually looks to scout out other countries to possibly include Argentina, Colombia and Chile.

photo via British UK

Last November we attended a panel discussion at FIT discussing the growing influences of Swedish fashion in the global community. From the successes of IKEA, H&M and Acne, contemporary Scandinavian design is more established than ever. And now, a new exhibit, Fashion Scandinavia: Contemporary Cool is launching at the Somerset House on the first day of London Fashion Week displaying 56 up and coming Scandinavian designers.

photo via NY Times

We discussed the changing conditions in China's factories a few weeks ago and despite things looking up for employees, it is becoming increasingly more difficult to find people to fill these full-time factory positions. The problem resides in the growing number of recent college grads who are holding out for work in offices rather than pursuing well paid factory jobs. This new status factor is leading to major unemployment for those of the educated and a growing desperation by factories to find skilled labor to fill up payroll. While the growth of education is only creating a larger gap in China's employment, maybe the beginning of labour unions will help draw back workers as manufacturers that contract companies like that of Apple begin to exercise representation.

The world is more globally connected than ever before and with that, influences can come from anywhere. One thing is for sure, fashion is directly linked to these growing markets and is an excellent indicator of where we should shift our focus with everywhere from China, Japan, India and Africa influencing the runway. However, on the production side, as future generations in China become more educated and lose their desire to work in factories, manufacturing jobs will continue to shift elsewhere to other developing economies, like India and Southeast Asia. Not to mention, there will definitely be more of a presence from Brazil and the rest of Latin America taking a stance here in the U.S. throughout the next year or so. Eventually, the time will come for the likes of India, Africa and Russia as well so stay tuned...