The Recession: Stealing our money and our high end brands.
Jimmy Choo just announced that it's designing a line of shoes and bags that will be sold in retail giant H&M. Although Jimmy Choo's average prices for their famed -- and if I do say so myself, stellar shoes-- go well over $500, this new line will be priced between $100-$200, and hopefully satisfy stylish yet price conscious consumers. But as high profile brands like Jimmy Choo and Karl Lagerfeld become more affordable, do they lose some of their appeal?
What I think is so special about the top designers is that when you buy something from them, it’s
special, rare, unique, and there is that factor that goes along with buying it. You are saying to the world, “Look at me! I look hot and you can’t get it unless you want to fork up 500 bucks.” This may all change as luxury items are integrated with the normal and plain Jane clothing of discount retailers.
The clutter of H&M will surely diminish the greatness of Jimmy Choos shoes, but the biggest drawback of this deal might hurt Jimmy Choo forever; it might lose its spark and uniqueness if it becomes to main stream and affordable.
So why is Jimmy Choo doing this? Is it because of the recession? Or are they just trying to get a boost for the brand? Only time will tell, I have my fingers crossed for their success, but I’m hoping this does not become a permanent venture, and that they will only remain a featured designer for H&M. I hope they go back to focusing on high end products and other items that got Jimmy Choo to be Carrie Bradshaw’s favorite shoe designer.
I'd love to hear what you think! Share your opinions in the comments.
