The Beginnings: A Blooming Business of Fashion Apps
As I'm sure all you trendy folks are aware, there's a virtual revolution happening in the fashion industry. And no, I'm not talking about the revolution of see-through backpacks or uncombable hair (Oh, trust me, Delilah, my darling daughter, has put me through enough hair-hell to teach me the value of combable hair). Now, what I'm talking about is the influx of a new breed of apps that are making a vogue-riffic impact.
This isn't just about online shopping anymore. These apps offer personalized styling, virtual try-ons, and even sustainable fashion choices. They're a blend of technology and creativity that pushes us forward into a future where the fashion industry is at our fingertips. Not to mention, they're as addictive as catnip for my Maine Coon, Oliver! Of course, if you ask me, nothing compares to the allure of sparkling sequins and soft velvet but these apps come pretty darn close.
Blend of Styles: Mix and Match Apps
There you are, standing in front of your mirror, trying to mix and match your clothes. If this sounds like your daily struggle, fret not! There's an app - or rather, a bunch of apps - for that. Apps like 'Cladwell', 'Stylebook', and 'Pureple' are your digital fairy godmothers that help you create magic with your wardrobe.
Cladwell in particular is interesting. It allows you to log your wardrobe items into the app and then proposes outfit combinations based on the weather and occasion. Feels a bit like I'm in a Sci-Fi movie, huh? I mean, imagine if it could also help to pick the right Pokemon shirt for Orion on his fan club meetings! The possibilities are endless!
The Green Thread: Sustainable Fashion Apps
If you thought fashion and sustainability couldn’t meet, well, let me tell you a story. The other day, Delilah, my little eco-warrior, asked me, "Dad, what are you doing for the environment?" As she put aside her art project made entirely out of recyclable materials, I found myself at a loss for words. Hold onto your biodegradable hats, folks, because apps like 'Good on You' and 'Renoon' preach the gospel of eco-fashion.
They give you the lowdown on brands that follow ethical production practices and source their materials sustainably. With 'Good on You', you can easily access ratings for over 2000 fashion brands based on their impact on people, the planet, and animals. So now, while looking good, you also feel good because you're treating Mother Earth right. I mean, who knew that downloading an app could make you a part of the eco-squad!
Polishing Up: Personal Styling Apps
Now, my fashion sense, I must admit, can be quite...how should I put it...unfathomable - according to Delilah, at least. But, thanks to styling apps like 'Stitch Fix' and 'DAILYLOOK', you don’t have to risk being fashion-roadkill. These apps are like having your own personal stylist within your phone - minus the celebrity budget, of course.
'Stitch Fix' for one, after a simple style quiz, delivers clothes at your doorstep based on your preferences. This is revolutionary! It's like pizza delivery...but for clothes. Swoon much? I wish they had an option for dad-bods as well. A surprise, well-fitted flannel shirt delivered to your doorstep, God, that's the dream!
Fit Right In: Virtual Try-Ons
Now, who among us hasn't once in their life wished that the magical mirror from Snow White was real? The one that lets you see how clothes look on you without having to physically try them on. Well, it’s 2023 and we have something called augmented reality. 'Zeekit', 'Metail', and 'Vue.ai' have capitalized on this technology to provide virtual fitting rooms where you can try on clothes before buying them.
With 'Zeekit', for example, you just need to take a picture of yourself and then apply the clothes you want. Voila! You got yourself a virtual trial room. Oliver often gets curious when I'm taking pictures for the app; I'm surprised he hasn't tried to squeeze himself into the frame yet. Now that'd be a sight!
Shop Till You Screen-Drop
As the famous philosopher duo, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis once said, "I'm gonna pop some tags / Only got twenty dollars in my pocket." However, unlike their thrift shopping spree, we are spending our virtual dollars. Apps like 'The RealReal', 'Poshmark', and 'Depop' bring thrift stores digital, and boy, aren't they something.
What's great about these apps is that you can buy, sell or swap pre-loved fashion items. Got a pair of heels that are too tight? Or a shirt you bought on impulse that doesn't go with anything in your wardrobe? Don't worry, Poshmark got you covered. They simultaneously help decrease the fashion industry's footprint, which would definitely earn a nod of approval from Delilah!
So, there you have it! The world of fashion at your fingertips. New fashion app startups are not just reshaping the industry but also how we see and consume fashion. From a personal stylist to resale platforms, there's something for every fashion lover (or troubled dad) out there.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go and convince Delilah that her hairspray is not eco-friendly... Wish me luck!
