The Fashion Business

Four Segments of the Fashion Business (Trade) Primary Level Growers and producers of raw materials Earliest stage of the fashion planning process Works two years in advance of consumer purchase Often imports from third world nations Little of this business in US

2. Secondary Level Composed of industries – manufacturers and contractors Designers and manufacturers of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, accessories and cosmetics Many companies based in US, but little manufacturing Most manufacturing in South America, Far East, Caribbean Work 1 ½ years to 6 months ahead of the consumer

3. Retail Level Ultimate distributor of fashion to the consumer Retailers buy from secondary level They work about three to six months in advance of consumer purchase The level of the fashion business with most familiarity

4. Auxiliary Level Supports the primary, secondary and retail levels Performs a variety of functions from publicity to advertising Includes all advertising media (print, audio, internet and visual), fashion consultants, researchers

Global Fashion Industry