Is It Possible For Virtual Fashion To Break The Harmful Cycle Of Impulse Buying?

During the pandemic, the fast rise of e-commerce platforms increased unplanned spending and impulse purchases. As virtual clothing gains popularity through apps and video games, people may now gratify the urge to buy new items without straining their finances and with minimal environmental harm.

Internet spending continued to set new highs despite increased unemployment and economic difficulties during the pandemic. For example, the share of retail transactions conducted online in the United Kingdom increased by 16% in February 2021 in a single month.

This contradictory behavior may be attributed to people seeking relief through retail therapy, as the pandemic has reportedly increased feelings of anxiety and sadness in young adults by 30%.

With a recent study reporting that 50% of respondents are interested in purchasing a digital asset in the coming year, online spending habits may change again due to reduced financial and environmental costs.

Digital wardrobes substitute traditional shopping

However, alongside an increase in online shopping, lockdowns also accelerated the rise of digital fashion as people turned to online worlds for interaction with other humans. Mainstream clothing trends are becoming increasingly prevalent in video games and apps —  including big-name designers like Louis Vuitton or Moschino experimenting with digital collections.

Virtual clothing pieces come at a fraction of the financial and environmental cost of physical items, meaning people may still experience the gratification of shopping with minimized harm.

“The biggest difference between video game styling and real-life clothes shopping is longevity. The fashion industry and brick and mortar fashion stores need to constantly push the cycle of styles, whether it is seasonal or fad-related; it is in their best interest to retire an old collection and push new inventory to the shelves,” said Povilas Katkevičius, game designer at Nordcurrent, an international developer and publisher of mobile games.

“Video game styling does not require this. Of course, we need to create new items because novelty is always exciting and interesting, but we do not need to retire our collections. We have endless shelf space in the virtual world in which old and new styles can mix into our players’ creations,” he continued.

Replicating real-life purchases virtually

Apps and video games that present a high level of character customization and can replicate real-life shopping experiences present new opportunities to satisfy the impulsive want to shop in a consequence-free environment.

Pocket Styler, which allows players to dress their avatar using items from an extensive catalog of designs, can provide players with the satisfaction of purchasing a new item without needing excessive financial means to do so,” P. Katkevičius explained.

“When designing the app, we studied real e-shops to mimic a smooth and recognizable user interface. As such, it contains a wide range of styles, clothing categories, and accessories that can be purchased through the in-game currency. Despite not receiving a physical item from purchases, a lot of the instant gratification for our community comes from the styling itself,” he explained.

About Nordcurrent

Nordcurrent is the biggest Lithuanian video game developer and publisher, known for such games as Cooking Fever,  Murder in the Alps, Airplane Chefs, Sniper Arena. Focusing on freemium and casual games, the company created over 50 games since 2002, attracting more than half-billion players worldwide.

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Lukas Pereckas of blueoceanspr.com

Spotted: TORANNCE At The Afterpay Australia Fashion Week 2022

TORANNCE is an Australian elevated contemporary label dedicated to timelessness, luxury, and wear-ability. Paying homage to vintage trends and muses, TORANNCE plays on eccentricities and eye-catching details while still being completely wearable and something that can take you from day to night.

TORANNCE was established by Julia Torannce Hemingway in 2015. Having studied a Bachelor of Business and working within the fashion industry for almost a decade, Hemingway felt she needed to create her own label so that she could push the design boundaries without limitation.

With a strong emphasis on quality, all TORANNCE garments are designed using premium materials, including natural fabrications, ethically sourced leathers, and beautiful hand-embellished materials.

Check out their collection below at the 2022 Afterpay Australian Fashion Week courtesy of Dave Choo.

Event To Watch Out For: Afterpay Australian Fashion Week

What: Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW) engages the industry alongside fashion’s most passionate consumers in one dynamic program, marrying physical and digital activations that celebrate Australia’s preeminent designers and fashion’s cultural influence.

Australia’s only international fashion event, AAFW takes place annually in Sydney and is the premier destination for Resort collections.

Where: Carriageworks – 245 Wilson Street Eveleigh NSW 2015

When: 9-13 MAY

Inside The Lives Of Instagram Models And Social Media Influencers

Life as an Influencer is becoming an increasingly stacked game. In a world of paid likes/followers, fickle algorithms, and those ‘lurky bots’, it’s become even harder to market yourself in 2022. With more Instagram Models on the scene than ever before; this creates a higher level of competition overall.

Gaining traction on social media often means hitting that elusive fan quota. However, it’s often a vague figure that allows you to qualify. This begs the question: how many people have to follow you or like your page in order to make you a legitimate Influencer? What will warrant enough credibility amidst a miasma of hashtagging and 24/7 responsiveness? You should start with applying a thick-skinned approach to negative comments (ironically, with much skin on show) and all ‘round people-pleasing.

Let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way. What does an Influence Marketer and/or Instagram Model actually do? Well, they create ‘sponsored content’. That means someone sends them something and they promote it to their audience, eg. “OMG this skin cream is the bomb, I now have no pimples”, or “this teeth whitening product is so great I can now allow myself to smile” – all the whilst being paid to give, let’s face it, an entirely biased review.

Influence Marketing is most usually carried out on the platform of choice: Instagram. According to Forbes Magazine, an Insta account with over one million followers can attract upwards of $50k for a single sponsored post: that’s certainly big bickies! What you may not know is that the social media landscape is continuing to change, and it’s not always in the interest of an Influence Marketer.

For example, have you heard of the term ‘Micro Influencer’? These are commonly described as ‘ordinary people’ (whatever that means) with a decent following of around 3000 followers. Usually, they aren’t ‘big-fish’ enough to score entirely free products, and they don’t always garner a genuine ‘hard-dried-ink’ modeling contract with, you know, an actual brand.

While the demand for Micro-Influencers grows (and will continue to do so during 2022); so does earning potential decline. This demographic is more often than not, underpriced. With so many people putting their hands up to assist e-commerce operators, for example, accepting the offer to post about a beach towel whilst wearing a bikini, this means that the value of a Micro Influencers’ engagement is vastly cheapened. It’s just supply and demand – economics 101.

The fact is, being a Micro-Influencer is generally not something to be taken too seriously. That’s because you can only ever earn a mere fraction of what your more socially mobile counterparts (you know those Insta peeps with the covetable green badge) can attract per post. What does this ‘Verified Badge’ on Instagram actually mean? Well, according to the platform itself, “a verified badge is a check that appears next to an Instagram account’s name in search and on the profile. It means Instagram has confirmed that an account is the authentic presence of the public figure, celebrity or global brand it represents.”

How do you get your very own Insta Badge? You can apply to get one by going into your platform’s settings tab, providing your ID, and waiting for that all-important response. However, there are no guarantees! But, that’s always the way, isn’t it? After all, there are no 100 percent shatter-proof formulas for achieving success in online marketing. Keep in mind that those ‘masterclasses’ will surely tell you differently, though.

Being an Instagram Model and marketing yourself is but a means to an end. It is not necessarily something to hinge your ‘bread-and-butter’ upon. If you are reaping the rewards as an Influence Marketer then more power to you. If you are still struggling and wondering why it’s not actually working for you, then remember things are never what they seem – especially when it comes to the world of social media/influencer marketing!

 

4 Ways To be Fashionably Eco-Conscious In 2022

In this world of fast everything… food, fashion, relationships, etc…have you ever really thought about your responsibility as a consumer? Sure, you might have found the resolve to avoid McDonald’s chicken nuggets (and possibly even be a strict vegan)…but when it comes to your clothing…do you know just what is behind its production?

If you are conscious of the environment and humanity you’ll more than likely want to know how to minimise your footprint and the best ways to make a difference, whilst still being able to indulge your love of fashion.

Here are our top tips on how to be fashionably eco-conscious.

Be aware of materials and production methods

Understanding what goes into the production of a garment is half the battle when making an eco-conscious choice. Could your favourite T-shirt have originated in a sweatshop? Is it made from materials that are environmentally sustainable? Check clothing labels and do your research before you decide to buy.

There are so many cool places to shop that go out of there way to ensure they use more sustainable and natural materials (like cotton) in their manufacturing…as well as local artists’ designs to boot! Look out for materials like bamboo, hemp, and Tencel. These are usually more eco-friendly than synthetic alternatives. Also, check the use of dyes and other factors that have gone into the production. In general, look beyond the initial dazzle of a cute item and a cheap price tag and consider the cost for our planet/people.

Check out second-hand and retro threads

It can be really cool and inspiring to hit up op shops for vintage threads. Not only are you getting a bargain, but a lot of the time you’re also buying a piece of fashion history. Beyond this… you’re recycling. You needn’t buy something mass-produced when there are a lot of beautiful retro options readily available.

You can also check out suitcase rummages, retro fairs, car boots sales, and online groups. So, you can pop those tags (like Macklemore) at a fraction of the price whilst maintaining your commitment to preserving the environment. This is all about doing your little bit to assist the ‘circular fashion economy’ – a movement that is turning the tide on textile wastage worldwide.

Embrace your authentic self

It may come as a surprise, but you don’t have to wear the same thing as everyone else, apply the same makeup style, or buy up big on every new trend that hits Instagram or your Facebook feed! It may seem like others have a perfect life – the holidays, the wardrobe, the friends and relationships… even the hair and the lips. The need to compete in a very status-driven world can sometimes hit pretty hard when you find yourself idly scrolling online.

But, remember behind the perfect ‘selfie’ are a million and one other shots that didn’t make the grade. Influencers’ and fashion bloggers’ posts are completely staged and are specifically created to sell goods. You don’t have to buy into this feeling of never being quite adequate, succumbing to the fleeting feeling that a mere product will fill the gap. You can set yourself apart and embrace your authentic self by wearing what makes you most comfortable and what aligns with your personal ethics. You’ll feel all the better for it.

Style with substance

Making eco-friendly selections when it comes to your wardrobe is the responsible way to indulge your fashion sensibilities. Whether it’s making informed purchasing decisions, buying second hand, or just by avoiding being that bit too greedy and impulsive when it comes to shopping, style with substance is about being conscious of your personal footprint and the toll of your choices on collective humanity.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

Experts Reveal How To Abandon Fast Fashion Trends & Shop Sustainably In 2022

In the age of TikTok and Instagram, fashion micro-trends have gained popularity. These trends move at lightning speed, have a short life, and are soon replaced by newer ones. Experts at Clothes2order have revealed the 4 key tips to avoid overconsumption.
Simon Turner, Marketing Director at Clothes2order, stresses the need to turn to sustainable fashion, letting go of impulsive purchases and fast fashion trends.
Because of their short lifespan, sustainable production is not possible when designing micro trends. And, while we will have forgotten about bucket hats in a couple of weeks, the consequences of fast fashion account for much longer damage to the planet. Clothes2order’s Marketing Director revealed 4 key tips for consumers to act more sustainably:
If you see a trend, take time before you invest in it. When you see a trend that you like, wait, bookmark it, and only buy what you need for the trend when you just can’t get it out of your head. You’ll be sure to have bought something you really like, and it will stop you from buying impulsively.
Shop secondhand! Check sites like Vinted and Depop before purchasing a brand new item! Not only will you save money, but you’ll also give a second chance at a perfectly good piece of clothing!
Look for companies that produce sustainably. Look for companies that use deadstock fabrics, those that make clothes to order, or those using water-based ink. These companies will usually have a sustainability statement on their website, in which they make it clear that caring for the planet is important to them.
Buy quality over quantity. If an item costs less than a takeaway coffee three points need to be made: 1, it’s not going to last until the end of the year; 2, it’s definitely not environmentally friendly; 3, the purchase is also damaging to the people who make the clothes.
The study also found the fastest disappearing fashion micro trends in the UK, with fisherman sandals and knee-high shorts ranking first and second.
Fastest disappearing fashion micro trends of 2021:

Rank

Trend

Popularity Decrease

1

Fisherman Sandals

-95.2%

2

Knee Length Shorts

-93.2%

3

Hibiscus Print

-84.7%

4

Hockney Dress

-70.5%

5

Crochet Dress

-70.2%

6

Heeled Thong Sandals

-70.0%

7

Bucket Hats

-63.3%

8

Graphic Tank Tops

-55.9%

9

Tennis Skirts

-45.4%

10

Maxi Tube Skirts

-33.3%

10

Swirl Prints

-33.3%

The full research is available to view here: Clothes2order
This article was sourced from a media release sent by Leila Jones of Digitaloft
Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

Status Symbols… Does Wearing A Rolex Make You Popular?

They say, fashion changes; trends wither but luxury and style last forever. In the case of luxury Rolex watches, this saying stands to be true. Ever since 1910, when the luxury watch company Rolex got a Swiss certification for maintaining its distinctive quality and make, the brand has not looked back. Let it be Gen X or the millennials or Gen Z; when it comes to owning a Rolex watch, the opinions are unanimous. Everyone wants one!

Rolex is literally the fashion watch goal even in this age and era and owning one means you are loaded! Here are some reasons for its massive popularity. Let’s get into it.

#1 A Rolex Watch Is An Acquired Taste

Unlike fast-fashion accessories and brands that mushroom every five or six years out of nowhere with their generic styles and fits to appeal to a crowd, Rolex targets a truly specific audience. Its users and clientele are premium and it’s not made to appeal to the masses. This is one of the reasons you don’t see it floating everywhere. It’s an acquired taste and that just adds to its charm.

#2 A Touch of Luxury

Rolex watches are specifically designed and manufactured for men and women who have a knack for luxury and indulgence. The extravagant designs are part of the appeal and experience of owning a donning a Rolex. Wrapping it around your wrist would oomph up your confidence and make you feel pampered and good about yourself. There’s a reason why Rolex is simply a class apart!

#3 A Rolex Watch is the Stuff Family Heirlooms are made of!

Now that’s not a shocker! When grandmas pass on their princess cut diamond rings; luxury gemstone clustered tiaras and vintage silk gowns to their upcoming generation of young women, a Rolex watch is a prized possession that could be passed on to the new generation of the fine young men of the family. The brand is known to make watches with a lifetime warranty and there are families who cherish these as their prized possessions.

#4 The Social Factor

Rolex watches have been a cult classic! From the Royal family to A-list Hollywood celebrities and stars – Rolex watches have been adorned, cherished, and endorsed by countless famous people. This just serves as the cherry on the top to add more to their popularity.

In Pictures: Medusa Hire Fashion Collab

Check out the amazing photos from our latest fashion collaboration with Medusa Hire courtesy of George Azmy.

Medusa Hire is the world’s first and ONLY Versace tableware and decor event rental company.

With their creative eye for elegance, they have handpicked timeless plates, glassware, flatware, and other accessories that fuse together the most beautiful combinations to artfully set the table. Their Versace collection of tableware and decor makes every event one to remember and will undoubtedly elevate any event, creating an Instagrammable tablescape. Medusa Hire service includes a bespoke “White Glove service” where their highly trained decor team set up all the settings for any event personally and professionally.

All items from Medusa Hire are authentic Versace pieces imported from Italy. All of the pieces are made to be of the highest quality and are exquisitely handcrafted by specialist artisans, selected pieces have 24K gold accents to create a prestigious and exclusive look for any event.

For more information about what they offer, send an inquiry to the team at Medusa Hire and allow them to help you bring your event to a whole new level via this link.

Photographed by George Azmy

 

How To Dress Up Jeans: 5 Simple Ways To Make Your Denim Stand Out

 

You couldn’t agree more that the most versatile bottom-buddies that are allowed to hug are legs are jeans. Okay, there might not be such a word as “Bottom-buddy” but it fits right? As long as it fits, there is always a place for it under the sun,

Like Jeans!

As long as it fits and as long as we can carry some style out of our pants then there would always be some new styles to cover and explore. Here are 5 new ways to make sure you stand out when wearing jeans!

  1. Turtleneck Sweater + Paper Bag Jeans

Turtleneck sweaters are undoubtedly hot, not just literally but also in the fashion sense. Balancing the energy, turtleneck sweaters can be best friends with Paper Bag jeans to balance the tight-yet-comfy feels your top has and the flowy-yet-intact sensation your Paper Bag jeans provide. Striped turtleneck sweaters look sexier when tucked inside this type of jeans. Also have this combo partnered with your best heels or maybe a complementing hat!

  1. Skinny Jeans + Light-Colored Shoes + Off-The-Shoulder Top

Not that I am a fan of the flowy effect but you should check this style out if you haven’t yet. Skinny Jeans give more emphasis to your legs and provides a little bit of a slimming effect while the off-the-shoulder top exposes your upper sexiness to a higher level. The light-colored shoes in this combination balances your style in between looking hot and being cool. You may add statement earrings and a matchy-matchy necklace as well. Sweet!

  1. Straight Jeans + Striped Ruffled Cropped-top blouse.

A new way to wear the old-fashioned-yet-unshaken Straight Jeans is to wear them with a cropped-top blouse, which would be better with stripes. It might be hard to imagine but it works! No cropped-top blouse but have a normal blouse at home? Easy, a pair of scissors or shears can be your best friend! Just a little time to spend with manual tailoring and you’re all set! Flats would also complement the Straight Jeans to give it a casual and more dignified look.

  1. Ripped Skinny Jeans + Plain white Tee + Blazer + Sandals

It’s such a great year for ripped jeans and sandals, isn’t it? Why not spice it up with a plain white tee and a blazer? I mean, come on! Imagine the fierce aura, girl! Plain tees give out the neutral vibes while a blazer would give the tee a respectable-looking companion. The combination of the tops you wear would balance the wild taste of the Ripped Skinny jeans and the sandals would keep you looking approachable while staying elegant. Awesome! Slay more!

  1. Cropped Jeans + Graphic Tee + White Sneakers

Want to try out a fun-looking getup? Then this style might work great for you! Graphic Tees shows a lot more about yourself alongside statement shirts which would look awesome with cropped jeans too when paired with the right footwear. White graphic shirts and Black graphic shirts would both look absolutely stunning with white shoes, and the cropped jeans’ role is to make sure your footwear is emphasized. Make sure to invest in really good-looking shoes that do not necessarily have to be expensive, to show a playful style.

Once again, as long as it fits and as long as we can carry some style out of our pants then there would always be some new styles to cover and explore. Stay slayin’ slayer girl!