The current economic downturn has not spared the fashion industry. Many had hoped that buyers of $1000 pair of shoes and $5000 cocktail dresses would not be affected by the current economic crisis. Unfortunately, they did. The result is an industry dealing with feeling of despair. The prevailing mood is not to show (read spend on) very opulent things.

The discussions have shifted from hemlines to survival. Blogs and news media are abuzz with discussions ranging from end of french couture to recycling bags from previous years for coming year. Many designers have seriously down shifted their shows as they see little chance of recuperating expenses that could run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.

It is natural for independent fashion designers to be affected by the news of gloom and doom around them. The logic goes “if big companies are struggling to survive how can I survive much less flourish in this economy.”

Contrary to the popular wisdom, I believe that current economic environment stacks the chips in favor of independent designers. The rigid structure of the fashion industry characterized by complex supply chains, risk capital requirements, short product shelf life and product excess; prevents the industry from responding effectively to the current economic crisis, thereby impacting the bottom line of major industry players

Independent designers, by contrast, are fast and nimble. Ability to change course and respond to prevailing mood in almost negligible time creates an unexpected market opening. However, what is lacking are the tools and supporting business processes to enable independent designers to leverage this opportunity. This is where Xaxii steps in.

Xaxii is created to offer an alternative to current fashion, beauty and lifestyle industry. It provides a structure that counters the inefficiencies and operational obstacles by leveraging the latest in technology and operational practices.

In the coming weeks, I will be expanding on how Xaxii enables this new industry structure. Please pre-register to learn how you can leverage Xaxii to bring your next collection to market.

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