is there such a thing as fashion for all?
Fashion, looks, appearances, keeping up with the jones’, however you want to describe it, has been around since time immemorial. In the past few years, we’ve seen a drastic increase in the market for appearances. From the metrosexual movement to Coach purses that regularly cost $200 becoming mainstream, to our culture’s relatively recent but everyday increasing obsession with the celebrity (whether they have a talent or not, hello paris hilton!) we definitely seem to care a great deal about appearances.
It seems to come down often to one thing: MONEY. Looking how we want costs money. or does it? Large chain stores have begun introducing collections designed by celebrities and famous designers. Some examples include Target (who really has an extensive collection of these goods, from the GO international collection, to the Devi Kroell handbags, Isaac Mizrahi, etc), Kohl’s (who in a week introduces a line from wedding design goddess Vera Wang. The collection will not include any wedding wear), Steve and Barry’s (Both Sarah Jessica Parker and Amanda Bynes currently have design lines at the store).
Admittedly, there has always been the bandwagon approach to goods (the Kathy Ireland collection at a mass retailer, the Kathi Lee Gifford line, Martha Stewart, etc) However, these new lines claim to be bringing fashion to the masses for cheap.
So, we know about all of these collections…are they really bringing high fashion to those of us who can’t afford a $1500 handbag? I think the answer is sort of. After perusing many of these lines, whether it be from a true designer, or whether it is simply a celebrity throwing their name on a collection (where are your credentials, i ask), they all seem to have their positives and negatives. The fabrics often leave me wanting more. Same with the construction. The designs themselves usually seem to be high-minded, but i have tried many an article of clothing on that is ill-fitting and seems to focus on all the wrong places. Yes this could happen with a more expensive line, but i often find that better fabrics sit on the body better.
Cheaper isn’t necessarily better. Check the seams. Try things on. Ask yourself if the cut and shape are good for you. Does the fabric feel good? Ultimately, I am conflicted. I want to be fashionable. I want to think I can be a study of eclectic beauty. My advice to you is to mix high end and low end pieces to create a look all your own. Be yourself. That’s fashionable! 
