I tried to treat my blog as a daily diary. I wanted to capture the different things I did on the trip and I wanted to create something that I could look back on years from now to jog my memories of Hong Kong. But there are somethings I didn't touch on in the daily diaries because I couldn't. I needed to put them together as a whole. Good thing I had over 15 hours on the flight back to think about it all.
Reflections on Food:
I'm obsessed with Peeking Duck. Obsessed. I've had duck before, and liked it. But peeking duck is different. It's amazing. My first taste was at the restaurant Spring Deer. It was so good I got it again at Jumbo. And I'm going to track it down in Virginia Beach.
But seriously. I knew going in Chinese food in China would't taste like what you get in Norfolk. But I loved it. I'm an adventurous eater and will try most things. But the food was really awesome. I do feel like I went most of the trip without eating any vegetables. Clearly, the food in restaurants there is not a reflection of what they eat on a daily basis. There is no way they could eat like that and be such a tiny culture of people!
The conduct of waitstaff when you go out to eat in China is remarkably different. I could sense that sometimes they were very frustrated with us. This is not a culture where you "split checks" to say the least - or think you can get the check quickly.
In fact I think it was the human aspect of eating in China for me that put together some of the biggest culture shocks.
Chinese Marketing:
If I was just about to graduate, had been on this trip and wanted to create a job opportunity for myself somewhere international I would seriously consider going to China and teaching some of the manufactures about the importance of marketing in your brand strategy and image. I mean it was amazing to me. I spent a lot of time at booths of higher end children's manufacturers. I like the clothes, I liked the quality and I would go to get the literature and was simply astounded. It. Was. So. Bad.
I mean I am a stickler for branding in marketing. I see a brand as a whole. But, like we were told in one of our showroom visits creativity is not as highly valued (or maybe the right word is encouraged?) in China. It's nuts. I think I could go on and on about it. I probably need to save it for my reflections paper since my blogs have been so lengthy I think they have take up most of what I want to write about. But, really. I think there is some seriously wasted potential going on here.
Reflections of Fashion Week:
Like I said in an earlier post I felt a bit let down by Fashion Week. I expected something a bit bigger and grander. If I didn't know better I would have thought it hadn't been established as long as it had. While I was highly impressed with the first show I attended the second was something I feel like could have been put together by a group of high schoolers. There weren't as many vendors as I would have like to have seen!
The sixties trends are still coming on strong in women's wear. The shapes were very mod, even among some of the children's wear I looked at. I saw little pea coats that looked like they belonged on Mad Men! Among the other trends I noticed were some serious pieces of statement jewelry. It definitely wasn't something I saw in street wear around Hong Kong but, it was really prevalent at Fashion Week. I will say though, it felt like some of the color stories I was seeing was a few seasons behind us. That surprised me based on so much manufacturing coming out of China - I think I expected more fresh color trends!
The People:
I was surprised by how rude I sometimes felt the Chinese were. The pushing, the abruptness (assuming of course that wasn't caused by some sort of language barrier). I didn't find much warmth in my interactions with the Chinese (with a few exceptions of course). My last day I was kind of over it. I had a few times that just drove me up the wall. A pushy guy at Disney, the waitress at sushi. Oh, and I remember on the day we went to the Chinese dept. store getting yelled at by two people checking me out for expressing concern that they rang my CC on two machines and I had to sign two receipts. I think I'll be much better prepared the next time I go to China. At least I hope so!
The Tour:
Oh, Pamela. You really let me down. I feel like we were on a glorified shopping trip sometimes - of everywhere that you wanted to go. The tour didn't feel very efficient. It felt like we doubled back a lot and wasted a lot of time - and a lot of great outfits to boot. I really believe you meant well. I do. Better luck next time.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
And I'm Free...
Finally, free day. Wanna know how excited I am? 4 AM excited.
There was so much I wanted to do in Hong Kong. I'm going to have to preface this blog with saying it didn't all happen. Not even close. I have to go back one day because I have "unfinished business".
The day began with heading to the Tian Tan Buddha. Just getting there was an exciting adventure. To get to the top of the mountain where the buddha and accompanying monastery is you must take a cable car - and we took one that had a glass bottom. It was exhilarating and stunningly beautiful. It was one of the absolute highlights of my trip. There really aren't many words to express how much I loved the moments that we spent riding up the the top of the mountain. When I say I want to go back to Hong Kong, I want to do that journey again. I'd do it a hundred times. I don't think it will ever get old.
I can't neglect to mention that the buddha itself is pretty magnificent. Minus the number of selfies it induced from the group. But, that's for another day. But at the end of two hundred something stairs was a majestic statue that speaks to the people that have inhibited this corner of the world for hundreds of years. Their beliefs, their culture. It may have only been around since 1993 but it spoke to so much more about Hong Kong. At least it did to me.
We didn't have time to hit the monastery while we were there. We had a few other things to know off the list
Let's Go Where Dreams Come True.
Disney.
Disney was a whirlwind with difficulties getting in. But we made it. We were only there for an hour and a half or so but we made it count. Two rides, a parade, and fast souvenir shopping later we were gone. But we went. And it was all I needed.
And we ran out the day.
We just went until we couldn't anymore. Shopping, sightseeing, laughing. The night ended with sushi. And just like that it was over.
There was so much I wanted to do in Hong Kong. I'm going to have to preface this blog with saying it didn't all happen. Not even close. I have to go back one day because I have "unfinished business".
The day began with heading to the Tian Tan Buddha. Just getting there was an exciting adventure. To get to the top of the mountain where the buddha and accompanying monastery is you must take a cable car - and we took one that had a glass bottom. It was exhilarating and stunningly beautiful. It was one of the absolute highlights of my trip. There really aren't many words to express how much I loved the moments that we spent riding up the the top of the mountain. When I say I want to go back to Hong Kong, I want to do that journey again. I'd do it a hundred times. I don't think it will ever get old.
I can't neglect to mention that the buddha itself is pretty magnificent. Minus the number of selfies it induced from the group. But, that's for another day. But at the end of two hundred something stairs was a majestic statue that speaks to the people that have inhibited this corner of the world for hundreds of years. Their beliefs, their culture. It may have only been around since 1993 but it spoke to so much more about Hong Kong. At least it did to me.
We didn't have time to hit the monastery while we were there. We had a few other things to know off the list
Let's Go Where Dreams Come True.
Disney.
Disney was a whirlwind with difficulties getting in. But we made it. We were only there for an hour and a half or so but we made it count. Two rides, a parade, and fast souvenir shopping later we were gone. But we went. And it was all I needed.
And we ran out the day.
We just went until we couldn't anymore. Shopping, sightseeing, laughing. The night ended with sushi. And just like that it was over.
To Stanley Market We Go
Today was a day that really brought the whole idea of counterfeiting to life for me. I've seen counterfeits before in the Caribbean, or New York but never since I completed my fashion studies. But, before that there was a showroom visit I should mention.
We visited Mr BBQ - and it was exactly what it sounded like. A showroom of barbecue products. Certainly not much of a fashion element here. But, in someways it was better. We had a frank discussion of merchandising and what it is in when you work as a professional in an industry with a merchandising component. Working doesn't always occur between 9-5. It takes time to build a career. We learned a bit about product development, a bit about adapting to meet the needs of the customer. It was well worth the time. He also spoke to culture and working in different countries with different types of people. That was something that was a common theme in the two showroom visits.
It was important theme in the trip. It's not just business where culture plays a part. Few and far between were the moments where it was apparent "We aren't in Kansas anymore"
The next thing on the agenda was devoted to a trip to Stanley Market. That involved some devotion - a ferry, and then a long bus ride. After a quick lunch we were ready to explore. This was another example of culture differences but it was a major lesson in stolen goods and counterfeiting.
Stolen purses were abundant. Everywhere. Being fashion person I could see fakes, but it was clear that many of the tourists (and our girls) were amazed at how close they could be. I think there were a lot of stolen goods as well. A lot of products I've seen in the states were available for prices no where close to what they should be (granted it's not like these vendors pay import tax!).
After Stanley I went to PS Culture next to the hotel. Another lesson in fakes. I had been there earlier in the week and was told by one of the California girls that the owner had brought it bags for me. When you enter the store the displayed bags are imitations of designers from across the globe. Prada, Celine, Chanel. But, all the bags were unmarked. This was how he gets around the law. He sends the bag away after purchase and it returns with the appropriate hardware and stamping. But, I couldn't help but wonder how much these laws are enforced. A) I saw fakes all over the night market and at Stanley. B) He had no problem bringing the fakes back into the store.
We visited Mr BBQ - and it was exactly what it sounded like. A showroom of barbecue products. Certainly not much of a fashion element here. But, in someways it was better. We had a frank discussion of merchandising and what it is in when you work as a professional in an industry with a merchandising component. Working doesn't always occur between 9-5. It takes time to build a career. We learned a bit about product development, a bit about adapting to meet the needs of the customer. It was well worth the time. He also spoke to culture and working in different countries with different types of people. That was something that was a common theme in the two showroom visits.
It was important theme in the trip. It's not just business where culture plays a part. Few and far between were the moments where it was apparent "We aren't in Kansas anymore"
The next thing on the agenda was devoted to a trip to Stanley Market. That involved some devotion - a ferry, and then a long bus ride. After a quick lunch we were ready to explore. This was another example of culture differences but it was a major lesson in stolen goods and counterfeiting.
Stolen purses were abundant. Everywhere. Being fashion person I could see fakes, but it was clear that many of the tourists (and our girls) were amazed at how close they could be. I think there were a lot of stolen goods as well. A lot of products I've seen in the states were available for prices no where close to what they should be (granted it's not like these vendors pay import tax!).
After Stanley I went to PS Culture next to the hotel. Another lesson in fakes. I had been there earlier in the week and was told by one of the California girls that the owner had brought it bags for me. When you enter the store the displayed bags are imitations of designers from across the globe. Prada, Celine, Chanel. But, all the bags were unmarked. This was how he gets around the law. He sends the bag away after purchase and it returns with the appropriate hardware and stamping. But, I couldn't help but wonder how much these laws are enforced. A) I saw fakes all over the night market and at Stanley. B) He had no problem bringing the fakes back into the store.
Doing it, and doing it and doing it well.
Day Three. Hong Kong. And if you are wondering it's still bloody hot.
Today was an awesome day. We started off with a trip to a toy showroom that was fun and informative. The mother in me of course loved the preview of all the hot toys headed our way in the next 15 months. Our guide, one of the companies VPs, was great at breaking down the schedule that buyers are currently purchasing under. I was impressed to hear the companies they were working with: Target, Walmart, Crayola - Dollar Tree was arriving the very next day! I think in many ways this may have been my favorite part of the trip.
Then it was back to Fashion Week. Today I got to see much more of the trade show. I was actually a bit let down by the whole thing. Having been to MAGIC in Las Vegas I was surprised at the small scale of the event. Especially after some of the articles I read for the class. I had also done my own research on the internet and expected something to that would be much more impressive.
It wasn't a total bust though. I want to open a store one day and the trip proved fruitful for that. During some of our walk around time I went around and met some different manufactures of children's clothes that fit into the image of the store that I plan to open. A few of them even had minimums that I think I can work with. While I don't have a buying plan just yet I have a rough idea of what I think I would need to support my planned brick and mortar/online operation and the numbers seemed reasonable. Plus, after the fashion show I got to meet Sandra, my favorite designer from the Young Designers Show. She was lovely - she spent a semester at FIDM and showed me her line and pieces she didn't display at the show. I hope to be in contact with her soon.
Today was an awesome day. We started off with a trip to a toy showroom that was fun and informative. The mother in me of course loved the preview of all the hot toys headed our way in the next 15 months. Our guide, one of the companies VPs, was great at breaking down the schedule that buyers are currently purchasing under. I was impressed to hear the companies they were working with: Target, Walmart, Crayola - Dollar Tree was arriving the very next day! I think in many ways this may have been my favorite part of the trip.
Then it was back to Fashion Week. Today I got to see much more of the trade show. I was actually a bit let down by the whole thing. Having been to MAGIC in Las Vegas I was surprised at the small scale of the event. Especially after some of the articles I read for the class. I had also done my own research on the internet and expected something to that would be much more impressive.
It wasn't a total bust though. I want to open a store one day and the trip proved fruitful for that. During some of our walk around time I went around and met some different manufactures of children's clothes that fit into the image of the store that I plan to open. A few of them even had minimums that I think I can work with. While I don't have a buying plan just yet I have a rough idea of what I think I would need to support my planned brick and mortar/online operation and the numbers seemed reasonable. Plus, after the fashion show I got to meet Sandra, my favorite designer from the Young Designers Show. She was lovely - she spent a semester at FIDM and showed me her line and pieces she didn't display at the show. I hope to be in contact with her soon.
Monday, July 21, 2014
Fashion! Turn to the left. Fashion! Turn to the right. Ooooh, fashion!
China. Day Two. In it to win it.
The day starting with another early rise for me. I have no kids on this trip. I should be sleeping to the last possible second... But, noooooo. I'm up. In all reality I'm still super shaking from the blood sugar drop last night. Or heat stroke. I don't know what it was but I am still sick. My husband called my dad and my dad called in the middle of the night. (He is a doctor). Breakfast makes me sick again but I am determined to power through. After all, it's Fashion Week Day 1!
But first we are off on what we will discover is another Pamela adventure. Or as her daughters-in-law call it: Death March. It was. I don't know why this woman insisted on running us ragged in the heat and humidity but that is for another time.
We headed to a traditional Chinese department store. Let's just say it is nothing like a modern American department store. Maybe it is a reflection of some descriptions I have read from the 1950's...It sold fabric. Heck, it sold groceries! Cosmetics and other novelty products adorned the first floor (not unlike the layout of today's dept store...I guess what women want doesn't change too much worldwide). But, other floors displayed products from antiques to jewelry to kitchy fabric. It was an experience. As I wandered from dept to dept (much of it by myself because I don't always like to shop in groups) I noticed that customer service was not something valued in China. When purchasing my pearl cream they swiped my card three times...When I tried to ask what was happening I was yelled at. One thing I find the most boggling is they will not give you your credit card back until you sign your receipt. God forbid if you stay at the counter too long though. Anyway, I picked up a few items (including foot insoles because my back and every nerve in my leg was hurting at this point). I searched for coconut water to help my heatstroke/bloodsugardrop/dehydrationatthispoint to no avail. But the best part of this experience was the tea tasting. We sat down at an ornate (and beautiful!) wood carved table for a tea tasting. Everyone in the group bought the Jasmine tea. I've had it in the States but this was light and fresh and I truly enjoyed it.
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The day starting with another early rise for me. I have no kids on this trip. I should be sleeping to the last possible second... But, noooooo. I'm up. In all reality I'm still super shaking from the blood sugar drop last night. Or heat stroke. I don't know what it was but I am still sick. My husband called my dad and my dad called in the middle of the night. (He is a doctor). Breakfast makes me sick again but I am determined to power through. After all, it's Fashion Week Day 1!
But first we are off on what we will discover is another Pamela adventure. Or as her daughters-in-law call it: Death March. It was. I don't know why this woman insisted on running us ragged in the heat and humidity but that is for another time.
We headed to a traditional Chinese department store. Let's just say it is nothing like a modern American department store. Maybe it is a reflection of some descriptions I have read from the 1950's...It sold fabric. Heck, it sold groceries! Cosmetics and other novelty products adorned the first floor (not unlike the layout of today's dept store...I guess what women want doesn't change too much worldwide). But, other floors displayed products from antiques to jewelry to kitchy fabric. It was an experience. As I wandered from dept to dept (much of it by myself because I don't always like to shop in groups) I noticed that customer service was not something valued in China. When purchasing my pearl cream they swiped my card three times...When I tried to ask what was happening I was yelled at. One thing I find the most boggling is they will not give you your credit card back until you sign your receipt. God forbid if you stay at the counter too long though. Anyway, I picked up a few items (including foot insoles because my back and every nerve in my leg was hurting at this point). I searched for coconut water to help my heatstroke/bloodsugardrop/dehydrationatthispoint to no avail. But the best part of this experience was the tea tasting. We sat down at an ornate (and beautiful!) wood carved table for a tea tasting. Everyone in the group bought the Jasmine tea. I've had it in the States but this was light and fresh and I truly enjoyed it.
And it's time for Fashion Week. No just kidding it's time for a death march. Lalala, lot's of walking and we make it to the convention center! Pamela was right about one thing- They truly were happy to have a group of Americans there. It was actually a bit nerve wracking knowing we were there under false pretenses. But I was going to enjoy every minute. And I did. I walked around and enjoyed some small vendors. A few had kid's lines which are my primary interest (Yes, I am the girl that pays insane amounts for kids clothes. Yes, I think children can be as chic as adult. Shoot me.) But the real highlight of the day was the Young Designers Show.
I could just die for this designers clothes.
Jenna and I having a little fun pre-show.
The clothes were incredible. The show felt so much bigger in that moment then the entire trade show put together. There was this energy, this feeling of excitement that really had me going. Models walked from every direction and some of the clothes were simply spectacular. Not all but a few made me feel like I could have been sitting in New York City. I fell in love with Sandra Chou. Her look wasn't as fashion forward as some of the others, in fact its wasn't as fashion forward as I would normally like to see from someone presenting on a runway. But, it was wearable. I saw myself (a few lbs lighter) in her clothes. I saw her girl and I understood Sandra. I got her message. I drank her Kool-Aid.
After that the day was pretty much over, I visited a few booths before the desire for food took over. We headed back to the hotel, ate, I got sick again, and we laid low. Until the night market that is.
The night market is an experience. I wish I had taken photos; it's a little street market with vendors selling everything you can imagine. From kids chopsticks (yes, I bought some) to knock-off purses (at this point I still resisted) to statues (yes) and knock of art pieces (yes, yes) the volume of merchandise and variety were amazing. It was a bit like if you have ever visited the Caribbean and attended a street market there. But, waaaaay cooler stuff. And way more.
That said it was a bit intimidating. I watched an Australian almost come to blows with a vendor when he understood he was talking about his wife. This was a time where culture differences became pretty evident. Many vendors got insulted when you low-balled them. Many took issue if you walked away from an offer they considered a compromise. More so than any other country I have been too. They got mad if I walked away even if they didn't meet me in the middle. Which wouldn't be so bad if say, they were making the stuff. But, two booths over you could find the same merchandise for cheaper.
Then again some of the vendors were exactly what I expected. Ready, to make a deal. I think the types of people selling at this market varied as much as could be. They were all different. But, the think they had in common was that this is a way of life for them and they took it seriously. I did enjoy myself and get a little purchase happy but it made me think a lot when I got back to the hotel. These people were not exactly living the high life. I couldn't help but think of the people that MADE the little chotchkies that were sold. What are their lives like?
Now We're Off!
Day One.
"I'm in China! Holy Cow! I'm so excited to be in China I am up at 5 am!"
Kelli my roommate is an early riser. Which is good because I laid in bed for a long time being afraid of waking her. We got ready, I called home and we headed to breakfast.
And So It Begins.
The day's itinerary was full. We started off with a trip to Victoria Peak on a bus tour. The view was spectacular, even though the day was a bit cloudy. We were not there long before heading off on a Sampan ride, recommended by Mary. It was heartbreaking to see how some of those fisherman lived - especially when you consider they actually had a better life than many had left in the mainland. The traditionalist in me also was sad to hear that so few people were carrying on the fishing tradition that had sustained their family for generations. I think that is also becoming problem for many small business owners in the states. I did an article for work where I interviewed business owners who were nearing retirement - so few had children who wanted to continue on with the family business.
The View from Victoria Peak.
Riding the sampan.
We headed back to the hotel for drop off and then I went to a Chinese restaurant for dim sum. I was so excited, because one of the things I had looked forward to the most was the food in China. Most of the time I'm up for anything. Long and short, it did not disappoint.
You know what I don't need. Another jacket.
Next up was a trip to Pete's Fashions. I came prepared with a series of jackets all pulled from the collections of some of my favorite designer's presentations at Fall Fashion Week 2014. I went intending to buy two...And then found out they were pricer than I expected. So I started to think I might not buy one...Then I saw it. A jacket on the sample rack that looked like it was made for me. Lately, my personal style has found me reinventing navy. Navy I think is traditionally a preppier color. I want a dark, edgy navy. This jacket was that. A military style with shiny black buttons. There was not a question in my mind I had to have it. So I told them what features I didn't care for and handed over my credit card without a thought. We kept talking about the other jackets I liked...and we will continue that story in another post.
We ended the day with some pearl shopping and drinks at the hotel bar before heading to the light show with some of the girls from California. I hate to say it but if you're reading this thinking about going to Hong Kong - skip it. Maybe it was missing the 4th of July fireworks. Perhaps as an American I am jaded. But it was not impressive. I couldn't believe how many people were lined up and ready to watch something that was so lame. And how these people all fell for it like I did.
We went from the light show to a quick tour of the area we were staying in (read: we got a little lost) before going to dinner. And I had either a heat stroke or serious blood sugar drop.
Let's Focus On The Good.
The End.
"I'm in China! Holy Cow! I'm so excited to be in China I am up at 5 am!"
Kelli my roommate is an early riser. Which is good because I laid in bed for a long time being afraid of waking her. We got ready, I called home and we headed to breakfast.
And So It Begins.
The day's itinerary was full. We started off with a trip to Victoria Peak on a bus tour. The view was spectacular, even though the day was a bit cloudy. We were not there long before heading off on a Sampan ride, recommended by Mary. It was heartbreaking to see how some of those fisherman lived - especially when you consider they actually had a better life than many had left in the mainland. The traditionalist in me also was sad to hear that so few people were carrying on the fishing tradition that had sustained their family for generations. I think that is also becoming problem for many small business owners in the states. I did an article for work where I interviewed business owners who were nearing retirement - so few had children who wanted to continue on with the family business.
The View from Victoria Peak. Riding the sampan.
We rounded out the bus part of the tour with a trip/tour of a jewelry store that designs its own products where I narrowly escaped buying a ring that would have seriously impacted the bus on my trip. Good thing because there were big purchases in my future that day. We then headed to an area off the beach of the famous deep water harbor to look at a series of statues and 1000 year old gates. I wish I could have heard Mary to learn more about where we were. The gate was beautiful and so were the statues in the area. I'll never forget it.
We headed back to the hotel for drop off and then I went to a Chinese restaurant for dim sum. I was so excited, because one of the things I had looked forward to the most was the food in China. Most of the time I'm up for anything. Long and short, it did not disappoint.
You know what I don't need. Another jacket.
Next up was a trip to Pete's Fashions. I came prepared with a series of jackets all pulled from the collections of some of my favorite designer's presentations at Fall Fashion Week 2014. I went intending to buy two...And then found out they were pricer than I expected. So I started to think I might not buy one...Then I saw it. A jacket on the sample rack that looked like it was made for me. Lately, my personal style has found me reinventing navy. Navy I think is traditionally a preppier color. I want a dark, edgy navy. This jacket was that. A military style with shiny black buttons. There was not a question in my mind I had to have it. So I told them what features I didn't care for and handed over my credit card without a thought. We kept talking about the other jackets I liked...and we will continue that story in another post.
We ended the day with some pearl shopping and drinks at the hotel bar before heading to the light show with some of the girls from California. I hate to say it but if you're reading this thinking about going to Hong Kong - skip it. Maybe it was missing the 4th of July fireworks. Perhaps as an American I am jaded. But it was not impressive. I couldn't believe how many people were lined up and ready to watch something that was so lame. And how these people all fell for it like I did.
This was the light show. You are now as wowed as I was.
We went from the light show to a quick tour of the area we were staying in (read: we got a little lost) before going to dinner. And I had either a heat stroke or serious blood sugar drop.
Let's Focus On The Good.
The End.
And We Wait...
The trip to China was long. Really long. After an early in the day arrival in the airport we got great news. Delayed.
Our second flight, from Jersey to Hong Kong was delayed by two hours. Then we were delayed another two hours. So we waited. The silver lining of course is that at least we weren't delayed to Newark. I mean as much as no one wants to spend extra time in New Jersey at least we weren't delayed GOING to Newark... It would have been so much worse to miss the flight to Hong Kong.
But before our we were still filled with excitement and adrenaline. We didn't want to waste around knowing we still had over 14 hours of continuous flying ahead of us. So what do you do when you want to kill time in an airport? Drink. And wait.
We found a seafood bar with a nice ambiance after lunch and ordered a few rounds. The group exchanged Instagrams, had a few laugh and burnt off some steam before our long flight.
Before we knew it it was time to board. I was practically shaking with excitement... For at least a little while.
It was a long flight. Have I said that yet? Seriously, it was lengthy. It was extended. It was prolonged. It was extensive. It lingered. (Thanks Thesaurus.com!) Thank goodness I sprung for the bulkhead at the last minute. So we flew, and we waited. I didn't think I would make it.
But I did. We all did, some of us barely. Fourteen hours and something minutes later we were there. The excitement was back. Mary, the cutest little Chinese tour guide ever greeted us at the airport after a trip through customs and baggage claim and off we went. The drive from the airport wasn't quite as exciting as I thought it would be. I wanted to see more of the city since I saw nothing during the fly in.
After checking out our rooms a few of us weren't willing to waste a minute. So, off we went to a little row of bars around the corner from the hotel that we had noticed on the way in. And we were rewarded. We couldn't find food so we just settled for the fourth bar, where we had been told the band was about to start back up. They were awesome. A Chinese cover band doing Tina Turner, Journey, and Michael Jackson? That's a great first night in Hong Kong. We only lasted one drink, but we had as much fun as if we'd been out all night.
Our second flight, from Jersey to Hong Kong was delayed by two hours. Then we were delayed another two hours. So we waited. The silver lining of course is that at least we weren't delayed to Newark. I mean as much as no one wants to spend extra time in New Jersey at least we weren't delayed GOING to Newark... It would have been so much worse to miss the flight to Hong Kong.
But before our we were still filled with excitement and adrenaline. We didn't want to waste around knowing we still had over 14 hours of continuous flying ahead of us. So what do you do when you want to kill time in an airport? Drink. And wait.
We found a seafood bar with a nice ambiance after lunch and ordered a few rounds. The group exchanged Instagrams, had a few laugh and burnt off some steam before our long flight.
Before we knew it it was time to board. I was practically shaking with excitement... For at least a little while.
It was a long flight. Have I said that yet? Seriously, it was lengthy. It was extended. It was prolonged. It was extensive. It lingered. (Thanks Thesaurus.com!) Thank goodness I sprung for the bulkhead at the last minute. So we flew, and we waited. I didn't think I would make it.
But I did. We all did, some of us barely. Fourteen hours and something minutes later we were there. The excitement was back. Mary, the cutest little Chinese tour guide ever greeted us at the airport after a trip through customs and baggage claim and off we went. The drive from the airport wasn't quite as exciting as I thought it would be. I wanted to see more of the city since I saw nothing during the fly in.
After checking out our rooms a few of us weren't willing to waste a minute. So, off we went to a little row of bars around the corner from the hotel that we had noticed on the way in. And we were rewarded. We couldn't find food so we just settled for the fourth bar, where we had been told the band was about to start back up. They were awesome. A Chinese cover band doing Tina Turner, Journey, and Michael Jackson? That's a great first night in Hong Kong. We only lasted one drink, but we had as much fun as if we'd been out all night.
Friday, July 4, 2014
What Does the Consumer Seek?
I found this last article, discussing cross cultural issues in consumer behavior to be quite different from what I expected. To be more specific, as I read, I was surprised by some of the descriptions of Hong Kong, and the Chinese culture.
I realized that much of my view of the Chinese has been shaped by my previous international travel and frankly does not reflect the consumer that is being written about in this article. My experience has been with the label seeking consumer. This article discusses more about the Chinese culture as a whole, their decision making, and their influences.
It was interesting to see the discussion of how the influences in the West have taken some prominence in advertising messages in East Asia.
I am looking forward to finding American brands around town in China - not because I am looking for the comforts of home but to see how they are marketed. I wonder how many - if any- American brands I might see at Fashion Week.
I realized that much of my view of the Chinese has been shaped by my previous international travel and frankly does not reflect the consumer that is being written about in this article. My experience has been with the label seeking consumer. This article discusses more about the Chinese culture as a whole, their decision making, and their influences.
It was interesting to see the discussion of how the influences in the West have taken some prominence in advertising messages in East Asia.
I am looking forward to finding American brands around town in China - not because I am looking for the comforts of home but to see how they are marketed. I wonder how many - if any- American brands I might see at Fashion Week.
While this picture is not from my trip to Paris I did find that the luxury department stores had lines just like this one of Chinese (and other East Asian) consumers seeking luxury brands.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Crossing lines, crossing borders, crossing cultures
This assignments reading is textbook. I say that in jest. It's really a very informative look (and reminder!) of the importance of culture in the business world. The chapter spends some time breaking down why culture matters in international business. On a most fundamental level, it impacts who were are... Sometimes who we are can make things more difficult. And certainly cultural expectations make things more difficult even beyond the business world.
Corporate culture plays a big part of that. I have a friend who I think has allowed the corporate culture of his company shape his ENTIRE view of the world. It makes me crazy. It's going to make my blog lengthy but indulge me... I think it can really shed some light on the influence of your culture and social environment.
So, all things considered protecting the environment keeps the lights on in my house. And yes, I heard the irony in that. But, my salary doesn't even compare to the salary my husband draws from his environmental work. It supports our family. But for us it is more than the culture of his company. I came into our relationship being a huge environmentalist (and liberal). I believe we are ruining the earth. I remember the moment in 2nd grade that I grasped the concept after reading about it from a mailer our school had subscribed to for us. It rocked my world. It's a view I've held ever since.
But, let me tell you about Charlie. Charlie is one of my husband's closest friends in the world. He spoke on behalf of the groomsmen at our wedding. Charlie introduced me to my best friend. They recently bought a home together. I wake up every day wishing for them to get engaged already (that is a topic for a whole different blog). Long story short, Charlie works for Timber Products, one of the largest wood companies in the United States. Charlie is a salesman. He sells the wood. He does very well. He believes the whole environmental movement is a crock of...
So one day, as we all vacationed in Las Vegas together this conversation came up over breakfast. It wasn't anything that we hadn't heard in bits and pieces from him before. But, that day we really got down in the depths of his beliefs. And in the interest of being brief it got heated. It also made my husband realize that while Charlie may be one of his best friends he thinks that what my husband has devoted his life too is liberal *insert expletive here*.
Did I mention Charlie is a literal card carrying Native American? A ethnicity that has based it's religion, lifestyle and very existence on Mother Nature?
So, bringing this all the way back to fashion and international business and cultural differences. Culture is everything. It comes in so many different forms, and it develops your entire life. As we become more of a global economy culture becomes even more important. Culture conflicts, sometimes within one person. So, what happens when you get in the room together?
Okay, so I have gone really long, and not really hit on what these blogs are supposed to accomplish. What am I getting at? What am I trying to say? Well, that day in Vegas Charlie and my husband could have ended an almost ten year friendship. One comment that took it a little too far and it would all be over. Ten years, they have known each other. It could have been erased in a blink.
Business is even tricker. If Charlie and Mike had not had so much history I doubt they would have ever spoken again. Business dealings can be fickle. When you take into the differences that one encounters across the globe a few things become clear. Without a global understanding, and a respect and understanding of another culture it would be tough to get anything done. In order to be successful you must work to understand the other cultures you will encounter.
Frankly, I worry that I don't know much about Hong Kong (really, China) as I go into this trip. I will have to make extra effort to be perceptive of the world around me. I need to be adaptable. I have to think outside my comfort zone. I need to spend the next week just soaking it all in - and staying on my toes!
Corporate culture plays a big part of that. I have a friend who I think has allowed the corporate culture of his company shape his ENTIRE view of the world. It makes me crazy. It's going to make my blog lengthy but indulge me... I think it can really shed some light on the influence of your culture and social environment.
So, all things considered protecting the environment keeps the lights on in my house. And yes, I heard the irony in that. But, my salary doesn't even compare to the salary my husband draws from his environmental work. It supports our family. But for us it is more than the culture of his company. I came into our relationship being a huge environmentalist (and liberal). I believe we are ruining the earth. I remember the moment in 2nd grade that I grasped the concept after reading about it from a mailer our school had subscribed to for us. It rocked my world. It's a view I've held ever since.
But, let me tell you about Charlie. Charlie is one of my husband's closest friends in the world. He spoke on behalf of the groomsmen at our wedding. Charlie introduced me to my best friend. They recently bought a home together. I wake up every day wishing for them to get engaged already (that is a topic for a whole different blog). Long story short, Charlie works for Timber Products, one of the largest wood companies in the United States. Charlie is a salesman. He sells the wood. He does very well. He believes the whole environmental movement is a crock of...
So one day, as we all vacationed in Las Vegas together this conversation came up over breakfast. It wasn't anything that we hadn't heard in bits and pieces from him before. But, that day we really got down in the depths of his beliefs. And in the interest of being brief it got heated. It also made my husband realize that while Charlie may be one of his best friends he thinks that what my husband has devoted his life too is liberal *insert expletive here*.
Did I mention Charlie is a literal card carrying Native American? A ethnicity that has based it's religion, lifestyle and very existence on Mother Nature?
So, bringing this all the way back to fashion and international business and cultural differences. Culture is everything. It comes in so many different forms, and it develops your entire life. As we become more of a global economy culture becomes even more important. Culture conflicts, sometimes within one person. So, what happens when you get in the room together?
Okay, so I have gone really long, and not really hit on what these blogs are supposed to accomplish. What am I getting at? What am I trying to say? Well, that day in Vegas Charlie and my husband could have ended an almost ten year friendship. One comment that took it a little too far and it would all be over. Ten years, they have known each other. It could have been erased in a blink.
Business is even tricker. If Charlie and Mike had not had so much history I doubt they would have ever spoken again. Business dealings can be fickle. When you take into the differences that one encounters across the globe a few things become clear. Without a global understanding, and a respect and understanding of another culture it would be tough to get anything done. In order to be successful you must work to understand the other cultures you will encounter.
Frankly, I worry that I don't know much about Hong Kong (really, China) as I go into this trip. I will have to make extra effort to be perceptive of the world around me. I need to be adaptable. I have to think outside my comfort zone. I need to spend the next week just soaking it all in - and staying on my toes!
Materialistic Tree Hugger
My husband and I are partial owners in two different environmental companies. I grow my own vegetables, recycle, refuse anything with pesticides and want to start having chickens and bees. But, I love fashion. I always have. I don't buy clothes out of necessity, I buy them to indulge my wants and desires. During my STEM 370 class I came up with a phrase to describe my two conflicting persona's: I am a materialistic tree hugger.
That phrase rang through my head throughout reading "Configuring sustainability at fashion week". Especially since one of the articles focuses on European fashion. When you go to Europe its amazing how eco-conscious they can be. In Munich, Germany last fall (when I was there) Oktoberfest and local stores had a deposit on buying a water bottle. You received two euros back if you returned it so it could be recycled. Nearby Berlin was one of the first trade fairs to showcase green fashion! Paris was shockingly clean during my trip there last year. Trashcans everywhere. But, as evidenced in the LFW article, fashion week is oftentimes the epitome of consumption - with more concern to the experience than to the earth.
We are doing good just to make you buy more.
The article's quote of Eva Kruse, which I will paraphrase as being about how it's better to wash at a lower temperature because it makes your clothes last longer - but don't forget to keep up with next fall's trends it's a great example of the oxymoron happening in the green fashion industry right now. It also came right back to the front of my mind as I read the second article. As it examines the influence of corporate social responsibility and SRB I wonder about the messages that come from the four main categories of stakeholders. Going green is a worldwide trend right now - and I'm guessing an easy decision since one would think all four stakeholder groups are calling for it. As the decisions are made where are the priorities going? How are they established? In the case of Reebok was their priority just to promote it? What wins? And, at what costs? Maybe they aren't using child labor but are the dyes from the textiles that say, cover a couch at IKEA hurting children in other ways? If its only a secondary factor how much good does it really do?
Furthermore, can fashion every truly be green with all this emphasis on consumption? Will this industry ever be able to be sustainable?
I am especially interested to see how "green fashion" is presented at HKFW. For STEM 220 I did a term paper on environmental justice in fashion and the different effects that were had on the fashion industry by textile production. China was by far one of the biggest offenders according to the research I preformed. I wonder what the green profile will be of this show and the local manufacturer's and designers.
What governs me?What governs them?
The more I think of it, I kind of half to mock myself for the "materialistic tree hugger" phrase. As the "Configuring sustainability at fashion week" article states in the shows they examined "fashion governed each event". Not to mention, those events certainly made headlines for being "early adopters" in taking green fashion to a trade show, didn't they?
I don't know if I am any better.
That phrase rang through my head throughout reading "Configuring sustainability at fashion week". Especially since one of the articles focuses on European fashion. When you go to Europe its amazing how eco-conscious they can be. In Munich, Germany last fall (when I was there) Oktoberfest and local stores had a deposit on buying a water bottle. You received two euros back if you returned it so it could be recycled. Nearby Berlin was one of the first trade fairs to showcase green fashion! Paris was shockingly clean during my trip there last year. Trashcans everywhere. But, as evidenced in the LFW article, fashion week is oftentimes the epitome of consumption - with more concern to the experience than to the earth.
We are doing good just to make you buy more.
Picture from the Be Eco Chic campaign at NYFW
The article's quote of Eva Kruse, which I will paraphrase as being about how it's better to wash at a lower temperature because it makes your clothes last longer - but don't forget to keep up with next fall's trends it's a great example of the oxymoron happening in the green fashion industry right now. It also came right back to the front of my mind as I read the second article. As it examines the influence of corporate social responsibility and SRB I wonder about the messages that come from the four main categories of stakeholders. Going green is a worldwide trend right now - and I'm guessing an easy decision since one would think all four stakeholder groups are calling for it. As the decisions are made where are the priorities going? How are they established? In the case of Reebok was their priority just to promote it? What wins? And, at what costs? Maybe they aren't using child labor but are the dyes from the textiles that say, cover a couch at IKEA hurting children in other ways? If its only a secondary factor how much good does it really do?
Furthermore, can fashion every truly be green with all this emphasis on consumption? Will this industry ever be able to be sustainable?
I am especially interested to see how "green fashion" is presented at HKFW. For STEM 220 I did a term paper on environmental justice in fashion and the different effects that were had on the fashion industry by textile production. China was by far one of the biggest offenders according to the research I preformed. I wonder what the green profile will be of this show and the local manufacturer's and designers.
What governs me?What governs them?
The more I think of it, I kind of half to mock myself for the "materialistic tree hugger" phrase. As the "Configuring sustainability at fashion week" article states in the shows they examined "fashion governed each event". Not to mention, those events certainly made headlines for being "early adopters" in taking green fashion to a trade show, didn't they?
I don't know if I am any better.
London Calling
London is a city that constantly alludes me. I've tried to get there. It's been at the very top of my bucket list for years. I never thought I would get to Paris, Germany or Hong Kong before London but somehow I can't seem to make it there. I was supposed to go a mere six weeks before Hong Kong. We were all set. We were buying our plane tickets with our tax refund. It was a done deal. Until we didn't get a tax refund. And my dreams flew over the Atlantic instead. With the number of trips we have planned in the next two years and another baby planned for 2015/2016 I fear I will never get there.
Needless to say based on how badly I want to get to London I think if I ever had the opportunity to go to London Fashion Week my head might pop off.
Building the basis for a comparison...
The article "Between art and commerce: London Fashion Week as trade fair and fashion spectacle"was by far my favorite read so far. I could just see it all in my head. I could visualize the grandeur, I could feel the buzz in the air. The article covered everything from brief bits of history of the event to the logistics of staging and seating to the emphasis on visibility, press and presentation.
One of the parts of the article that most intrigued me was the discussion of boundaries and access. One think that I found remarkable was how it seemed like the hierarchy in the fashion world so directly mimics the hierarchy found in the London social scene regarding royalty, status, and title. Actually, its really an idea that applies across fashion week. From the press coverage to seating assignments the entirety of the week is based on the position that other people think of you as. In London, more than many cities I have read about you need to "belong" in order to get anywhere. It certainly makes sense that these two are intertwined.
From London to Hong Kong
Fashion is definitely the same sense of "belonging" but with different descriptive words. Fashion refers to what is "in" or "trending" or "hot". I'm curious to see what the levels of exclusivity are like at Hong Kong Fashion Week; to compare my understanding of London Fashion Week to what I observe in Hong Kong. Furthermore, I'm curious as to how the social scene of Hong Kong influences the experiences of Fashion Week and where the boundaries lie. With the language barrier and short duration of our stay I don't know if I will get to fully understand it during my short stay, but it certainly gives me some ideas of readings to search for if there is wi-fi on the plane.
Video of a British Designer Vivienne Westwood's show at a previous Hong Kong Fashion Week.
Needless to say based on how badly I want to get to London I think if I ever had the opportunity to go to London Fashion Week my head might pop off.
Building the basis for a comparison...
The article "Between art and commerce: London Fashion Week as trade fair and fashion spectacle"was by far my favorite read so far. I could just see it all in my head. I could visualize the grandeur, I could feel the buzz in the air. The article covered everything from brief bits of history of the event to the logistics of staging and seating to the emphasis on visibility, press and presentation.
One of the parts of the article that most intrigued me was the discussion of boundaries and access. One think that I found remarkable was how it seemed like the hierarchy in the fashion world so directly mimics the hierarchy found in the London social scene regarding royalty, status, and title. Actually, its really an idea that applies across fashion week. From the press coverage to seating assignments the entirety of the week is based on the position that other people think of you as. In London, more than many cities I have read about you need to "belong" in order to get anywhere. It certainly makes sense that these two are intertwined.
From London to Hong Kong
Fashion is definitely the same sense of "belonging" but with different descriptive words. Fashion refers to what is "in" or "trending" or "hot". I'm curious to see what the levels of exclusivity are like at Hong Kong Fashion Week; to compare my understanding of London Fashion Week to what I observe in Hong Kong. Furthermore, I'm curious as to how the social scene of Hong Kong influences the experiences of Fashion Week and where the boundaries lie. With the language barrier and short duration of our stay I don't know if I will get to fully understand it during my short stay, but it certainly gives me some ideas of readings to search for if there is wi-fi on the plane.
Video of a British Designer Vivienne Westwood's show at a previous Hong Kong Fashion Week.
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Trade Shows Aren't Dead
I love trade shows. I do. I've attended (and helped plan them) them as a young professional, before I went back to school. I then attended MAGIC, in Vegas, as a student. I then got out of school and got a job planning trade shows. I've been to environmental trade shows, I've been to educational trade shows but there is nothing like a fashion trade show. They are just alive. They stimulate all of your senses. Your adrenaline begins to rush. You want to just take it all in.
This week's articles were all things trade show. From the role and importance of the trade show to the procedural information needed when attending the fair.
My trip to MAGIC.
Fashion Is Social In More Ways Than One.
One of the most interesting reflections I had from the first article were the changes in what the exhibitors are choosing to showcase at the shows. Hong Kong Fashion Week is specifically cited when discussing fears of copycats and unwillingness to showcase entire collections. While everything the journal cited as reasons why made total sense I was taken aback. I wonder how that affects that small retailer. I understand their buying habits have changed and these new procedures are a reflection of that. I wonder how the independent retailer makes their decisions now. How have they adjusted? How does their attendance to shows compare with ten years ago? What percentages of their decision making are happening at these shows vs. online?
Trade Shows Are Still Relevant.
My favorite part of this list was the last. Opportunity to make a Bold Statement. Could that be applied to anything more than the fashion world?!? I look at true fashion as a series of bold statements. Art really. In this article they discuss that you can use a trade show as an opportunity to give your consumers and prospects confidence in your company. Each line in fashion is exactly that. It's daunting and invigorating. Not only do you have to make that statement with your clothes, you have to do it with your booth too. The right hangers, the right steel trusses, the right tags, the right lights. It's all an opportunity to make that statement. If you get it wrong, no one has confidence in your company.
Getting Lost In the Fray
I wish "Making Trade Shows Work For You" was in fact titled "How Not To Get Lost In The Fray". It was such a quick line in the story, such a short paragraph. Is that it? I feel left wanting more and not sure how to fill in the blanks. Can we get a little more on that whole networking thing maybe?
I can't wait to see what Hong Kong Fashion Week is like. I can't wait to just breathe it all in. I want to see how all these global companies "get it right". I want to immerse myself in their bold statements. I want to ask questions.
I just want to be there.
This week's articles were all things trade show. From the role and importance of the trade show to the procedural information needed when attending the fair.
My trip to MAGIC.Fashion Is Social In More Ways Than One.
One of the most interesting reflections I had from the first article were the changes in what the exhibitors are choosing to showcase at the shows. Hong Kong Fashion Week is specifically cited when discussing fears of copycats and unwillingness to showcase entire collections. While everything the journal cited as reasons why made total sense I was taken aback. I wonder how that affects that small retailer. I understand their buying habits have changed and these new procedures are a reflection of that. I wonder how the independent retailer makes their decisions now. How have they adjusted? How does their attendance to shows compare with ten years ago? What percentages of their decision making are happening at these shows vs. online?
Trade Shows Are Still Relevant.
My favorite part of this list was the last. Opportunity to make a Bold Statement. Could that be applied to anything more than the fashion world?!? I look at true fashion as a series of bold statements. Art really. In this article they discuss that you can use a trade show as an opportunity to give your consumers and prospects confidence in your company. Each line in fashion is exactly that. It's daunting and invigorating. Not only do you have to make that statement with your clothes, you have to do it with your booth too. The right hangers, the right steel trusses, the right tags, the right lights. It's all an opportunity to make that statement. If you get it wrong, no one has confidence in your company.
Getting Lost In the Fray
I wish "Making Trade Shows Work For You" was in fact titled "How Not To Get Lost In The Fray". It was such a quick line in the story, such a short paragraph. Is that it? I feel left wanting more and not sure how to fill in the blanks. Can we get a little more on that whole networking thing maybe?
I can't wait to see what Hong Kong Fashion Week is like. I can't wait to just breathe it all in. I want to see how all these global companies "get it right". I want to immerse myself in their bold statements. I want to ask questions.
I just want to be there.
Blog Is My New Four Letter Word
"The road to hell is paved with works-in-progress" - Phillip Roth
When I found out that a key part of this class was writing a blog my heart sank. I ignored it as a method of denial. Of course, with my late start in the assignments for this class I didn't have long to do that.
I've wanted to blog for years. And years. And years. In fact when I went to make my blogger account for this class there were multiple blog titles that I've created over the years but not a single post. Why? Another four letter word. Fear.
Blogging in a public forum gives me intense anxiety. I find this especially ironic because one of the benefits listed in our article is the stress reduction and health benefits that come from journaling (or in this case blogging). That paragraph made me laugh.
It's not that I think I don't have enough to write about. I don't need Progoff to tell me how to come up with "new insights, reflections and ideas". I'm dying to start a lifestyle blog. I come up with post topics everyday. One of my favorite blogs is looking for contributing writers right now. So why don't I do it?
"To gain your own voice, you have to forget about having it heard" - Allen Ginsberg
I know I can write. I write for school. I write for my job. I write well. I always have. But for some absurd reason blogging terrifies me. When I write for an assignment, whether academic or professional, it doesn't feel like it's me. It's the putting myself out there of blogging that causes pain in my gut; when I start a lifestyle blog it will be so personal. And let's face it: people on the internet are judgmental. They say things in your comments they would never say to your face. I wonder if I can take it. Do I want to know what people think of my "intuition and self-expression"?
Rotolo touches on the important thing about blog content is it is designed to be shared. That's a statement that just feeds the monster for me. What if it's shared in order to ridicule? What if they don't like my supporting images? What if my title isn't catchy it's kitchy?
"I think I can, I think I can..." - Thomas the Train
So, as the benefits of journaling states journal writing leads to personal growth and development. Let's sure hope so. This class might be the best thing that ever happened to me. Or the worst. Creating my first blog when it's going to be read and graded. I certainly have a way of jumping into things headfirst.
It's time to jump off the cliff. Let's just hope something catches me on the way down.
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