The History of Under Armour – A Mastermind for Performance Apparel

October 19, 2009 · Posted in How To Make Money In Fashion, International Market · Comments Off 

Not every company is noteworthy or stands out among a crowd of business analysts and industry moguls. Twinkle Dressing Room 5
Creative Commons License photo credit: lemoncat1

However, sometimes the exceptional will surface with new innovation and promises to change the standard by which all is presently compared. Most people can name a few if they think about it but in the case of Under Armour Apparel, they have been a silent success. Under Armour has put their mark on the Performance Apparel industry over the last ten years and they have not only increased the standards for their direct competitors but they are constantly raising the bar for its customers. Presently, SportsSCAN Info’s Schwartz has stated that Under Armour is close to the fourth largest retailer of sporting appeal in the United States just behind Nike, Adidas and Columbia.

The Here and Now

Headquartered Baltimore, Maryland; Under Armour is a growing force and fierce competitor in the performance apparel industry. They have offices all over the world including Denver, Toronto, Hong Kong and London England.

Under Armour develops its performance apparel for men, women and youth with product lines that impact all levels of activity from everyday to extreme sport activity covering all climates and conditions. Read more

Business Fundraising – Network With Your Capital Providers Before You Need The Money

June 19, 2009 · Posted in Business Planning, International Market, Online Marketing · Comments Off 

Marion Cotillard, Elle March 2008
Creative Commons License photo credit: Tammy Manet

Often entrepreneurs will be in the process of building their businesses and suddenly be struck by a need for cash. The business wins a big contract or general growth has increased in speed. On the down side, the slower economy slows sales growth or customers slow down their payable cycle. Either way, this is not the time to go looking for capital.

If you ever believe you may need capital, the time to start the process is now, be it debt or equity. Take the time to get to know your banker. If you bank at a large bank, such as Bank of America, get to know the local branch manager. Find out how they process business loans. If there is a local loan officer, ask to meet with him or her. Find out what the lending standards are.

Large banks may allow the branch to approve loans up to a certain amount. Higher amounts may be kicked up to the regional or corporate offices. It would be a shame if you were denied a $60,000 loan by a corporate office, but you could have gotten a $50,000 loan approved by the local branch. Read more

The Close Look At the BCBG Clothing Line

December 13, 2008 · Posted in Industry, International Market · Comments Off 

BCBG Max Azria 2008, Karen Elson
Creative Commons License photo credit: Tammy Manet

When we host a party or gathering at home, we make sure everything is just right. We clean up the entire house, add a few flowers here and there, double check to see if food is ready, drinks are chilled and finally we think about our dress for the evening. What we wear is a reflection of our personality and how fashion conscious we are. This will determine if we fit into the group we are a part of or stand out like a sore thumb. Finding that perfect evening wear dress is never been an easy task. It always requires time and effort, for one goes through trying out different outfits before settling on one. The BCBG clothing line was created by Max Azria to help people look perfect in that dress that looks like it was tailor made for them. He is a Jewish American designer who was from Tunisia, but moved to America and has found his home there. This label BCBG, an acronym for “Bon chic, bon genre”, which translates to good style, good class was meant for women who wish to look trendy yet classy.

Max Azria also opened a store in his own name in :Los Angeles and has couple of others in New York’s SOHO district, and Newport Beach, which stocks BCBG clothing for women. Read more

Indian Fashion Industry

December 3, 2008 · Posted in Chic and Fashionable, Competition, Developing Fashion, International Market · Comments Off 

Sabyasachi during Lakme India Fashion Week, Mumbai, India.. Pictures, Images and PhotosColourful fashion trends of India

With the end of the 20th century came the end of all hype which has created a more practical and pragmatic environment and has given a more stable picture of the fashion business.
In the 50s, 60s and 70s, the Indian fashion scenario wasn’t exactly colorless. It was exciting, stylish and very graceful. There were no designers, models, star or fashion design labels that the country could show off. The value of a garment was judged by its style and fabric and not by who made it.

It was regarded as ever so chic and fashionable to approach any unfamiliar tailor, who could make a garment for a few rupees, providing the perfect fit, finish and style. The high society lady, who wore it, was proud for getting a good bargain and for giving her name to the end result. Read more