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Boutiques become ‘trend editors’
As department stores consolidate and brands proliferate, boutiques are increasing in importance. While about two-thirds of fashion accessories consumers now shop primarily at department stores and mass merchants, experts agree that as brands and choices increase, more shoppers will turn to smaller stores to edit the overwhelming selections. “Boutiques and even some specialty chains will continue to gain credence as the arbiters of taste,” says Beder. And Cohen notes that these “retailers of differentiation will allow consumers to express their personal style and individuality through accessories.” Both Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus are focusing on their new contemporary divisions with a boutique sensibility, while upscale specialty chains such as Intermix, Plaza Too and Scoop have all expanded. Beder also predicts that manufacturers will likely intensify the trend to vertical retailing with boutiques of their own. “But where,” he asks plaintively, “is the department store player who’s willing to think outside the box and drive new designers?”
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