Anything fun such as fashion is not considered as a serious business. Fashion is seen as a frivolous industry and something that encourages consumerism. It is all glitz and glamour from the outside, champagne flowing at after parties, A-listers sitting in front row at fashion shows and expensive photo-shoot for glossy pages. It is a fun ‘project’ for a lot of people. When I started my brand, everyone did not understand the concept and story behind it. To them, I am just another person  ‘selling clothes’.

Asian stereotype did not help with the misconception. The notion that lawyers, engineers, bankers and doctors are the only secure jobs that exist, poses a challenge in the growing fashion industry. It is ironic, considering that most of the Asian countries are home to the manufacturing powerhouse of many global brands. Some may say that fashion is even bigger than the likes of automotive in Britain and Japan. Truth to be told; their media counterpart are also facing the same issues. Up until today, fashion journalism is limited to only cover light topics such as beauty review, shopping and celebrity interview in magazines. Although there has been an improvement but the job opportunities in fashion are scarce.

The fashion industry needs a facelift or a makeover. There are so many things we can do to improve this great industry; using media partners to increase popularity, having consultants reshape the brand image and public relation to spread the word. The Vogue Fashion Fund and other funding schemes all over the world are also available to those talented young people to ensure the longevity of the fashion industry.  The opportunity is still huge in Asia, as not many understand it and willing to jump on the bandwagon.

The Finery Report aims to be a media partner to boost fashion businesses. We cover business aspect of fashion and beauty; such as industry analysis, financial report and technology. It is not going to be everyone’s cup of tea but it is definitely for those who are looking to invest in fashion and are passionate about the industry. Leandra Medine said: “Don’t be something for everyone, be everything for someone.”

Warmest regards,

TFR team