5 Reasons Why Social Media Is Fashion’s Best Friend

In the dynamic and constantly evolving digital age, social media is one of the most important tools that businesses can use. Contrary to popular belief, fashion is a business and its ultimate goal is to sell a product. A lot of trees are killed to produce the meticulously created glossy pages of magazines and fashion shows may seem like an excuse to dress in the most ostentatious outfits. However, these are just processes in the business of fashion. Social media is fashion’s best friend because, in a sea of content, visuals produced by the industry capture and connect the audience to these glossy pages and fabulous shows.

So why is social media fashion’s best friend? Here are my top 5 reasons:

1. Connectivity to the World

Social media platforms make it possible to connect to millions of people around the world. Many platforms are easily translatable across borders and have an international following. This includes fashion, which has major fashion capitals spread around the world. Social media consequently allows for quick access internationally.

2. Visual Content

The fashion industry’s favorite platforms are those that make visual content the hallmark of their existence. Platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram are perfect for giving a behind-the-scenes look at the biggest names in the industry or enabling fashion addicts to create a collection of stylish items.

3. Rapid Updates and Information

The nature of social media is that it is constantly transforming and there is always something new to talk about. As in fashion, one day something is in and the next day it is out. These platforms are therefore able to keep up with the fickle side of the business, offering a frequent flow of information and keeping the audience talking about different brands and features within the fashion industry.

4. Connection to the Everyday Consumer

Before social media revolutionized the industry, fashion was mainly controlled by magazine editors and socialites who wielded the power of influence. However, with the various platforms available now, the everyday fashion connoisseur can connect to the inner workings of the industry and develop their own voice on the trends being exhibited in the shows and on the pages.

5. Interactivity

Digital editions of magazines and perfectly manicured fashion websites give the everyday person a voice in the industry using interactive elements such as street style submissions, contests to become a guest editor, and insider video content on the latest trends. Bloggers are also gaining influence in the industry, with the blog format allowing them to feed more information to their readers and enabling readers, in turn, to consume the latest trends and styles.

Charity Gates is Everywhere Agency’s Summer 2014 intern and resident fashionista.

Runway Image Source: http://www.fabsugar.com/Yigal-Azrouel-Runway-Fall-2011-New-York-Fashion-Week-14207658