You Have a Classic Clothing Personality!

A Classic clothing personality/fashion persona is a sign of grace and tasteful style. 

                                          Credit: Celebutopia - Angelina Jolie, JustJared - Katie Holmes, 
                                                    Buzzfoto - Brooke Shields, WENN - Lauren Conrad, Wireimage - Ashley Olsen
 Your Celebrity Style Twins: Chanel, Jackie O, Katie Holmes (Classic and Natural), Ashley Olsen (Classic and Dramatic), Brooke Shields, Victoria Beckham, Lauren Conrad (Classic and Natural), Angelina Jolie (Classic and Dramatic), Anne Hathaway (Classic, Natural & Dramatic), Kate Middleton, Pippa Middleton (Classic & Natural), Michelle Obama, Diane Kruger (Classic & Creative), Marion Cotillard (Classic, Dramatic & Romantic) 

You dress conservatively than other fashionistas and your wardrobe consists of a lot of neutrals such as black, gray, navy blue and beige. Clean, straight lines dominate your closet. You also favor garments with soft draping as well as tops, jackets and dresses with a nipped waist.

You prefer to keep your outfit simple, timeless and business-like. A tendency to match your clothes (ie. a handbag in a color that is similar your shoes) is in your nature. You're not into loud, faddish trends. 
 

Victoria Beckham via Marie Claire/Getty Images

If you're young (under 30) you might have had people commenting on how you dress older, and more mature for your age. 

Styles of Classic Fashion Persona

A Classic style is the basis of chic fashion. It has characteristics that appeal to a majority of "neat & tidy" women - especially those who appreciate tailored clothes and accessories. Minimalism, Preppy (ie. Loafers) and Elegant (think Chanel-style suit) style are variations of this fashion persona. Classic style also overlaps with Dramatic and Natural.  

Style Tips for a Classic Clothing Personality

Show off your Style With (closet essentials):

Oversized sunglasses, Breton navy-striped tops, blazers, knee high riding boots, ballet flats, pearl necklace and bracelet, pearl stud earrings, white dress shirt, tailored city shorts, plaid shirt, v-neck sweaters, shift dress, tote handbag, classic gold or silver jewelry. 

If you already have these in your wardrobe, experiment with different styles of a piece - for example a Breton top with shoulder detailing or a blazer with prominent shoulders. 

How to to Improve Your Style/Word of Warning:

Women with a Classic clothing personality tend to dress a bit safe and can look plain. It becomes rather predictable and boring (or very basic if you will).
Try stretching your comfort zone by selecting your essentials in a different color than a neutral - for example, if you're into ballet flats see if you can try a new pair with in a bold color; or look for flats with gold metal hardware. Assess your coloring and experiment with your best colors (that are not neutrals :P ).
Improve your outfit and implement an interesting twist that reflects a fun or casual aspect of your personal style. An example is to add some interesting touches with for example a scarf in an eye-popping color or an accessory with a trendy detailing (ie. strappy platform sandals or a studded clutch purse). Or combine Classic pieces with your other fashion personas. For example, if you're a little bit of Dramatic define that with a bold statement necklace or a pair of fierce stiletto pumps. (via:thechicfashionista)

10 Fashion Trends to Give a Spring to Your Wardrobe

The 2013 Spring Ready-to-Wear collections presented at the New York, London, Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks is a celebration of fresh vibrant colors, strong architectural shapes and masterful tailoring. While pervasive trends like florals and colors reappeared with a new twist, we saw the return of sharp tailoring, Asian influences and the emergence of stripes as the hero graphic. The design houses from fashion’s famous capitals provides us a palette full of beautiful trends to try, and stylish ready-to-wear that’s incredibly fun to wear. Here, we present our top 10 fashion trends that’ll give a spring to your wardrobe.And you can also check our another blog: Spring 2013's Most Wearable Fashion Trends

Monochromatic Colors

A blazing spectrum of colors hit the Spring Summer 2013 runways. From warm hues of orange, red, yellow and pink to cool, serene hues of the ocean ranging from green, cobalt, turqoise, azure to cerulean, these color-wonderful shades lit up the outfits in vibrant flashes. Worn as a column of solid color as seen at Roksanda Ilincic, Carven, Gucci, Stella McCartney and Valentino, or in styles paired together in corresponding shades at Akris and Lanvin, this trend promises to brighten your wardrobe and moods.

Power Flowers

A perennial favorite on spring runways, designers up the ante this season as florals burst into 3D life, taking shape via embroidery and embellishment. Flower power was led by Raf Simon’s painterly metallic roses at Christian Dior, Dries van Noten’s showcased 3-D petals evoking Mexican paper flowers, and Prada outlined anemones and mums. Mary Katrantzou’s designs imbued high art, and Erdem, a master of all things perennial and posy, showcases textural and neon petals.

Other floral interpretations included sculpted blooms, sequined sprigs and textured lace bouquets. Trussardi and Vivienne Westwood Red Label kept florals ditsy, Viktor & Rolf opted for drama with silver roses, while Ralph Lauren and Bottega Veneta dipped into a vintage box of treasures to revive nostalgic patterns.

Shiny Sheens

Glitter, gleam and gloss hit the Spring Summer 2013 runways as fashion designers offered stunning designs in lustrous foils, precious-metal prints, iridescent fabrics to holographic finishes. Seen on separates such as tops and skirts, dresses and coats, shiny sheens were presented as day wear, in the form of matching them with neutral hues, and a bold, solid color by night.

Oriental Seduction

The Far East continues to be a rich source of visual appeal for designers. Asian thematic interpretations were wide ranging – from Prada’s digital-printed geishas, to Pucci’s louche Vietnamese ladies to Peter Pilotto’s power woman by way of India.

Japanese references was the primary source of the Oriental trend, with designs falling into two distinct camps. Fashion designers found common ground in the kimono jacket, where clean lines and lavish fabrics meet in harmony. Worn loose of belted, the kimono jacket is this season’s modern alternative to the summer jacket. Etro and Lanvin came out with martial arts influenced shapes for day dressing.

Other fashion designers choose decorative route with as dresses, pants and blouses featured embellished and embroidered oriental motifs as seen on Emilio Pucci’s exquisite silk dresses, and white origami folds and graphic blossoms at Prada. More subtlety, Celine’s knots and twists were are smartly origami.

Print Collage

There was no limit to the number of colors, fabrics and textures used to construct Spring Spring 2013′s fashion dresses, thereby passing on the decision of the perfect spring summer dress to buyers and shoppers a-like. Roksanda Ilincic fabricated a simple shift from more than 10 colored panels. Proenza Schoulder took it further, patch working strips of clashing leather and silk, spliced with facial images from micro-blogging site Tumblr, which it cited as a point of reference. Snake prints on chiffon and metallic leather provided the template for Preen’s collection, all appearing in one look white Holly Futon opted for bold symmetrical swirls. There was nothing random about these offerings: in color-blocking or prints colliding, this is design mastery at its best.

Summer Black

In a season of strong vibrant trends, the color black returned to bring softness to the Spring Summer 2013 collections. Black for day came in sweet summer dresses and lightweight layers, while evening wear was presented with textures, ruffles, pleats, lace and embellishments. Silhouettes showed a bit of skin such as slashed fronts, exposed midriffs and bare shoulders to lighten the overall feel of summer black.

Serious Frills

Drama and motion came to Spring Summer fashions with a froth of frills and ruffles at many design houses. Waterfall cascades, fluttering trims and delicate ripples decorated waists, hems, sleeves and necklines. What is interesting about this season’s frills is that they are voluminous yet mininalistic rather than frippery and girlie. As seen at Balenciaga and Gucci, outfits displayed sleek ruffles more architectural than sweet – done up in black, white and gray for instant impact.

Stripe Me

Designers embraced stripes as the word for Spring Summer 2013 fashion season. This linear pattern went horizontal, vertical, chevron, curved and zig-zag. Stripes were seen on Jonathan Saunders’ sequin dresses, ball gowns at Oscar de la Renta and Moschino’s candy stripe outfits, white Marc Jacobs experimented with long curved stripes with dazzling optical patterns.

Power Suits

Power suits returned to center stage for Spring Summer 2013 as fashion designers reinvented the two piece in a variety of distinctive silhouettes: strong-shouldered, double- or single-breasted, wide, or narrow. From city classics and ladylike numbers to casual cuts and avant-garde ensembles, the tailored suit received a much needed chic update. Christian Dior proposed a feminine interpretation of the tux, Giorgio Armani had a Friday casual suit and Giambattista Valli offered a vest version. This season’s sharp suiting is a welcome affair for career women who want to wear suits without looking like an investment banker.

Pure Whites

The white palette dominates Spring Summer 2013 fashion season and again, designers followed two distinctive camps on this color. Architectural takes and structured silhouettes were seen at Jill Sander, smart layers at Rag & Bone, and cool crisp colors at Rochas.

Artisanal applications on white were found in lacework, crochet, broderie and brocade – lavish detailings that brought a couture complexity to the simplest of pieces and turning the blank canvas of white into a work of art. Sun-bleached effect on sheer embroidery, lace and eyelet designs were seen at Valentino, Emilio Pucci and Prabul Gurung.(via libertystyle)

Tips To Opening Wholesale Apparel Business

Apparel industry is one of the quickest developing and highly wealth-making industry 

generating millions of dollars in profits. There's no more uncertainty the fashion keeps on changing and each next day you receive numerous hot figures and patterns which are accessible at thousands of street as well as online stocks to seize. The prices are genuinely cheap and virtually everyone is efficient to afford them. Definitely the places are reasonable because the retail merchant of the vendor find that at the healthy price. At the very time, the retailer keeps a effective measure of market profits one his gross revenues. Hence, if you are a novice apparel business person or contrives to start any type of apparel business in nearby future, then few hints will be demonstrated genuinely useable for your business. In this article, we will take a look at a couple of of those numerous tips.

Market Research:

A great marketplace research is the important element in the succeeder advertise of your apparel occupation. A well prepared and winning marketplace explore can discover several really functional selective information which can assist you get your concern virtually accurate and complete. What marketplace explore takes on are full the views which will be related with your occupation. So, if you’re about to bargain in ladies jeans, then you essential know the trends of the market. Movements and manners can be acquired by a market visit. A questionnaire may be surpassed out involving for specs and requirements.

Get the wholesale apparel supplier:

Afterwards finishing your market research and getting about the trends, you must finally get a true and reputable apparel wholesaler for your business. The apparel wholesaler is the essential part which will be performing backside the stage in your occupation. To get a certain, affordable and esteemed apparel wholesaler can really make your occupation a forward motion. Acquiring about the apparel wholesale provider is genuinely a serious job. Internet can aid you to a broader extent to accomplish the task. There are a number of online news internet site where you can learn about the repute, fiscal standings and standards of an apparel wholesaler in a marketplace. Beware of the false and fake apparel wholesaler. They can downfall you and your concern. Since it is hard to draw each site over net, therefore fake apparel wholesale provider are very much in measure. You must hold proper safety measure by yourself.And it's our honor if  you will  choose us Los Angeles Wholesale as your apparel supplier,and we will do our best to make good services and supply you high quality clothing.

Setup your Side and Start:

At One Time you have eventually chosen your apparel wholesaler, you must setup your store. If you’re selling your apparel using a brick and mortar store, then you must plan your shop really fascinating and pulling in. Your store should sustain clients for a long time. Suitable facilities and little shell amusement will be a great thought. Or, if you program to trade your apparel online, then you should pattern your site consequently. The website must sustain a exploiter favorable user interface and must be effective of accommodating several list of visitants each calendar month. Requital methods must be genuinely adjustable and accessible so that you can access many clients. Pass for least and fastest viable transportation so that customers once again airt to your site.

2013 fashion color trends --spring

Spring 2013 color trend: Earth Daze

Design Options see Earth Daze as a spring 2013 fashion trend that continues on from the 1960s and tribal fashion statements of spring 2012;

Burnt orange and brown tones of bewilderment and bemuse combine peaceful ideas and 1960′s flair. Deep burgundy and intense blue shades of Provencal and unadorned add a touch of delicacy on a canvas of timeless artistry.

Artful with accents of agility and civilisation.

The key details are brocade, velvet, paisley and tribal prints, while the associated colors for spring 2013 are as follows;

Spring 2013 color trend: Natural Expression

The former fashion trend might have been dubbed Earth Daze by Design Options, but it’s Natural Expression that actually has strong earthy colors.

Earthy tones of slate grey and rustic olive indicate notions of loveliness on a backdrop of silk georgette. Cornflower blue and teal hues of gracious debutante and femme fatale delicately draw attention to smoky accents.

Particular and naturally expressive.

The key details for Natural Expression are metallic linen and rayon jersey, while these are the associated colors;

Spring 2013 color trend: Primary Circle

Let’s face it: Natural Expression and Earth Daze are both rather subdued interpretations of spring / summer 2013. And if spring / summer seasons are about anything, it’s loud colours – hence Design Options’ Primary Circle fashion trend.

Energetic and striking tones of orange exude deliberation and pragmatic intention. Grass green hues of iridescence fuse melodically with cherry red undertones creating the perfect unification.

The principal elements of unification.

The key fabrics of Primary Circle are bamboo jersey and patent leather, while the trend’s colors are as follows; (via:fashionising)

Spring 2013's Most Wearable Fashion Trends

Spring 2013 Trend: Bermuda Shorts

The slouchy, cool-girl shorts that were all over the New York runways this season are perfect for every girl who never felt like she could pull off those cheek-baring cutoffs so beloved on Instagram (i.e., most of us). They’re ultra chic, fam-friendly, and flattering; seriously, what’s not to love?

Spring 2013 Trend: Black and White

“Spring trends” might typically call to mind Easter-egg colors and happy-go-lucky floral prints, but this season, designers put the emphasis on strong black-and-white looks (OK, there were a few floral prints, too). Appropriate to wear year-round, easy to pull off at every budget, and sleek enough to work at the office or on date night, this trend is the definition of wearable.

Spring 2013 Trend: Peekaboo Pieces

Speaking of date night, this spring you’ll have zero problem finding something sexy to wear: Daring cutouts, midriff-baring separates, up-to-there splits, and sheer fabrics were all over the runway. The beauty of this trend? There’s a peekaboo option for every body shape (and level of modesty) up for grabs.

Spring 2013 Trend: Statement Sunglasses

Want to add a runway feel to your everyday basics? Pick up a pair of spring’s OMG-worthy sunglasses. They hit the runway in every shape and size, each pair louder and more fabulous than the next. (Case in point: Google’s augmented reality glasses even took a turn on the catwalk.)

Spring 2013 Trend: Bold Stripes

If those Rorschach-esque digital prints are too OTT for your style, take spring’s big, bold, uncomplicated stripes for a spin instead. With denim, they’re all-American; with navy, they’re nautical-chic; and worn head-to-toe, they’re just plain cool. Bonus: You’ll definitely be able to wear them for seasons—even years—to come.

Spring 2013 Trend: Luxe Leather

Time-honored and fashionista-approved, a luxe leather piece is more than worth adding to your spring shopping list. Minimalistic shapes, rich colors, and a no-fuss approach to the hair, makeup, and accessories that complete the look make these investment items seem like they’re from 2013, not 1983. (And with spring clothes hitting stores in February, there’s no need to stress about the sweat factor.)

Spring 2013 Trend: Beautiful Beading

After fall 2012’s whirlwind of brocade, fur, and embellishment, it was no surprise to see a little razzle-dazzle on the spring catwalks. You could see influences everywhere from India and the Middle East to Russia, and it made for some seriously stunning evening wear. Push that itchy, too shiny sequined minidress to the back of your closet, gals. You won’t be needing it for a while.

Spring 2013 Trend: Shorts Suits

If you buy one thing this spring, make it a shorts suit. This look was on dozens of runways in New York and is the ideal blend of “guy hot” (hel-lo, legs) and “girl hot” (Annie Hall, anyone?). They’re purposeful, versatile, and office-appropriate, and we’re betting you’ll be able to find all-star versions of this must-have at every price point come 2013.

Spring 2013 Trend: Sporty Dresses

Spring’s sporty dresses—with their flirty A-line skirts and shoulder-showcasing bodices—are going to distract quite a few dudes next season, we guarantee it. We love them because they work just as easily with wedges and high-heel sandals as they do with comfy canvas sneakers. Go all Saved by the Bell with the addition of a collegiate cardigan or letterman jacket.

Spring 2013 Trend: Flats and Low Heels

Sexy ’90s pointy heels are back and have been modernized with everything from dainty ankle straps to cylindrical heels. There will always be a moment for four-inch pumps (and that moment is date night), but these ladylike heels are such a nice option to have on hand. Extra cool points if you wear them with slouchy boyfriend jeans or Bermuda shorts to brunch with the girls.(via:glamour)

Sunny Zhao's Happy Day

Time flies,it has been about 3 months since we arrived at L.A,as the sales manager of Los Angeles Wholesale (chinese biggest apparel e-commerce company),it is really a hard time for my colleague Jane Xu and me to develop further business.Finally,we receives a good news toady,BIG SMILE ^ ^

When I am having snacks today , my facebook message pop-up , that is
Maor Luz . He says that he've  received his first sample processing order and is quite satisfied with our product quality,total 200 pcs. pants.

He's one of our old clients in L.A , when Jane and I arrived on November 10th, we firstly got in touch with him , and told him our new sample processing operation .He just wanted to build his own clothing line with his own brand to expand his business.He showed his interests and it was easy for us to reach our cooperation .

During the period of sample processing time , he wanted to have some details changed , size 29 to size M , size 31 to L , and add his own logo and brand .We gave feedback to our factory in China and met all of his demands.

Maor Luz said he will order more products from us,thank him for his trust and the affirmation to our work:) You can contact this handsome guy via facebook: Maor Luz 

So do u want to cooperate with us,haha,don't hesitate to call me ( 323-620-4114). Waiting for you!

LA Fashion District Guide:Info, Tips and Where to Shop

The LA Fashion District is perhaps the premier shopping destination in Los Angeles for its bargains, garments and trend-setting designs. The numbers alone can be somewhat intimidating: 90 blocks, 4,500 apparel and accessory lines, more than 1,000 stores. For some, it's like trying to find the best fashion stores in Milan. Here's a guide to get you started.

WHEN TO GO

For the ultimate LA Fashion District experience, go on Saturdays, when many wholesale stores sell garments directly to the public. Shops are typically open from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Samples and extras go at 40 to 70 percent off retail prices, and remember to bring your bargaining skills.

If crowds make you queasy and you’re not a die-hard bargain hunter, reserve a day during the week when you’ll have some room to think. Note that if you’re trying to avoid the crowd by going on a Sunday, you’ll be extremely successful, given that the majority of the shops in the Fashion District are closed then.


HOW TO GET THERE

By Metro: Take the Metro Red Line to Pershing Square at 5th and Hill Street, which puts you in the heart of the Jewelry District. DASH bus routes run through the LA Fashion District for easy transportation. Download a map of the district, or check routes online.

By Car: Several surface lots are available for all-day parking. Metered parking is also available, though signs can sometimes be confusing and tickets are common sights. Parking lots on Olympic Boulevard, a few blocks west of Los Angeles Street, are sometimes cheaper.


TIPS

Bargaining: Arm yourself. Many of the deals you hear about are the result of bargaining, which happens at many (though not all) stores. Stick to what you’re comfortable with, and if you’re not happy with the price, look on the bright side: there are 999 other stores to find the perfect buy.

Clean and Safe Team: You might see folks on bikes in yellow uniforms. These are members of the LA Fashion District’s “Clean and Safe Team.” You can ask them for directions, maps and brochures and even lunch suggestions.

Be Prepared to Search: There’s a reason why they call real bargains “hidden” gems. At the Fashion District, the garment hunt is part of the fun, so open yourself up to the possibilities. Who knows what you might end up finding?

Buyer Beware: Some shops only accept cash, and for those bargaining, cash can often get you a better deal. Keep in mind that all sales are final, so let that decisive shopper in you come out to play.

Stores Marked "Solo Mayoreo:" This means these stores are wholesale only and are not open to the public.

For Large Purchases: If you plan on acquiring a whole new wardrobe, for instance, consider bringing a rollable piece of luggage. 

SANTEE ALLEYLocation: On Olympic Boulevard between Santee Street and Maple Avenue.

The Story: Prepare yourself for a dose of culture shock. The sights and sounds of Santee Alley are the first signs that this isn’t your typical Los Angeles shopping experience. Garment vendors hawk their wares in Spanish, Russian, German and more. The languages are nearly as diverse as the goods, which range from socks to handbags. Love it or hate it, Santee Alley is one of the most organic and vibrant shopping venues in LA.

The Lowdown: People come here for cheap goods, i.e., knockoff designer labels and a hodgepodge of interesting accessories from Hello Kitty to cell phone covers. On the weekends, denim goes cheap. Check out Morrie’s (934 S. Maple Ave.) for a more traditional store setting (think Loehmann’s with style for the hipper set).


THE EUROPEAN CORRIDORLocation: Pico Boulevard between Main and Santee Streets

The Story: This is Rodeo Drive with the prices slashed. Most merchandise here is imported from France, Italy and other international fashion centers, hence the Euro nickname. As a result, merchandise here leans toward high-end sophistication. This may mean that you’ll still be shelling out some serious dough for the evening gowns, dresses and shoes that the corridor is known for. But deals are deals, and you’ll often only be paying 30 to 40 percent off retail.

The Lowdown: Boutiques reign over the European Corridor. Many of them are part wholesale, part retail, which means they'll open their doors to walk-in customers. Don’t hesitate to ask if they sell to the public.


THE INTERSECTIONLocation: 9th and Los Angeles Streets

The Story: This is the granddaddy of the LA Fashion District, where fashion industry leaders come together to bust out $1.5 million a year, 1,200 showrooms and more than 4,500 fashion lines. The heavyweights are California Market Center, Cooper Design Space, Gerry Building and The New Mart. The Intersection is home to five market weeks a year, which attract buyers from all over the world and create some of the most groundbreaking styles in the country.

The Lowdown: These big garment wholesalers aren’t typically open to the public, but on the last Friday of every month, you can try your luck at sample sales. Note that these are clothes that have been modeled; in other words, models wore them (read: typically size six or smaller).


MENSWEAR DISTRICT
Location: Los Angeles Street between 7th and 9th

The Story: The LA Fashion District isn’t just about womenswear. The Menswear District is lined with stores selling suits, ties, shoes — just about anything a man needs to make himself noticed in LA. No need to be a rich man, either. These suits are typically heavily discounted.

The Lowdown: Roger Stuart Clothes (761 S. Los Angeles St.) has been the mainstay for fine Italian wool suits, and it also carries lines from Loro Piana and Cerruti.


THE FLOWER MARKETLocation: Wall Street between 7th and 8th

The Story: The flower extravaganza that is the Flower District rivals Santee Alley as the most unique shopping experience in the LA Fashion District. Most of the action is based in the Flower Market on Wall Street. Founded in 1913, the indoor market boasts virtually every kind of floral cut you can imagine — silk flowers, Japanese ferns, various types of lilies and much more. If you’ve ever wanted to truly “stop and smell the roses,” this is the perfect opportunity.

The Lowdown: If you’d rather not pay the admission fee to the Flower Market ($1 to $2), several individual flower stores line the streets. Check out Unique Sarah (508 E. 8th St.) for exotics and special arrangements with a reputation for superb artistry.(via discoverLA)

Finding buying agents in China: 6 things you should know

Finding buying agents in China: 6 things you should know

When your import from china business grows, you need to find a Chinese buying agent, here is where the problem come from. you don’t know how and where to find a purchasing agent; Should you sign a contract with them, if yes, what clauses to put on the contract? How can you tell if they are trustworthy? Should you use a buying agent or a buying office, which one is better?

Trust is everything

I think you would agree with me that to work with an agent or broker, trust is everything. I would rather to use a reliable and trustworthy but mediocre buy agent rather than someone who is capable but you can’t believe in(Ideally, it would be perfect if you can find a competent and reliable one).

How can you tell if your agent or representative in China is trustworthy? In many cases, first impression can misguide you. You can did some online research to see if there is any comments and observation about him/her. Set some trial tasks with them, see how they act, if he did great for one project, two project, three projects…., then he is great. If he screws things up, find the reason and give him a second chance, you can normally tell a person by working with them for some times.

Contract VS verbal commitment

Some buyers think contract is not important(actually quite some), so they work with suppliers and purchasing agents on verbal commitment, binding by morality and virtue.

We have a client in US, buying casket from China. We are buying office for them. This client don’t like contract, he don’t sign contract properly, when I point that out, he responded that the contract will be useless if the supplier breach the contracts. Unfortunately things went on not very well with the casket supplier, they deliver poor quality products, first inspection failed, second failed, third failed, they refused fourth inspection. We have nothing to do but turn to ask for the help from lawyer, all lawyers asked if they could see the contract and what quality standard we agreed in the contract, which we didn’t have, the lawsuit is still going on, without a properly written contract, an easy lawsuit become complicated.

Believe me, these things happen. So my suggestion is trying to sign a contract properly with the buying agent no matter how good your personal relationship is with the agent. Ask the help of lawyer to draft and review the website. You might be also interested to check our 3 series article on how to negotiate contract with Chinese company.

Buying offices VS buying agents

Buying offices normally have experience in more industries while buying agents often specialize in certain area such as apparel, electronics. So if your sourcing projects covers many industries, then it might be better to use sourcing offices. If you deal with one product, you could work with individual agents. Also if your project is relatively big, it might be better to use sourcing office as you will need many sourcing experts to work on your project at the same time.

Buying offices are normally legally incorporated companies, so if they breach the contract, you will have somewhere and someone to chase after. Sourcing agent is often one man show, if bad things happen, they might disappear. So relatively, buying offices are more reliable than agents.

Agents might offer low rate, compared with buying office. So for small buyers, if you are able to find a reliable agent, then agent might be a better choice.

Hidden commission

It is a public secret that many sourcing agents demand commission from the suppliers. Getting commission from supplier means your buying agents and the suppliers become alliances, they will not push for the best price otherwise the suppliers won’t happily to give them the commission; they might turn a black eye on quality issue; they don’t recommend the best suppliers to you, instead, they recommend a supplier give them the best benefit.

You pay them decent service fee, they present you a make-up sourcing report(price is not real, factory presentation is biased, best supplier might be disregarded), all the problems are caused by hidden commission.

Hidden commission is so common, so suppliers often offer to give commission to the buying agents even the agents don’t ask for it.

So how can you make sure your sourcing agents won’t betray you – adding hidden commission?

First of all, you should sign a contract with your sourcing agents, state clearly in the contract that hidden commission, actively or passively, is not allowed.

Secondly, you could contact some suppliers by random, using a different company name, see what price you get.

Hire an experts, not hire a secretary

There are thousands of products world buyers trying to buy from China, products are different to each other, it will take months or even years of learning to understand the production mechanism of a new product. A competent sourcing agent should be a product expert, if you don’t know the product, you don’t know how to plan the quality control, you don’t know the cost and can’t negotiate the price properly, you don’t even know where to buy the products.

That is why Li & Fung only hire sourcing experts with 10+ years working experience in certain industry. The experience give them the knowledge of quality control, price negotiation, product research and development. They can deliver a solution.

Communication often is a problem

First is the language. You should make sure your sourcing agent speak your language well, good enough to understand your email, to draft and review English contract, they should also be familiar with products in your language(parameters, specification, parts and component etc). You need a sourcing agent who is well prepared and hit the ground running. If you are looking to build a long term relationship with your agent, ideally the agent should be proficient in speaking, as in many cases, email is slow, you will need to call them to speed up process.

But as a matter of fact, generally Chinese don’t speak good English, so for important matters, better to send an email or fax to make sure your agent understand and won’t miss your key points after the phone call.

The efficiency of communication is an issue to look at, especially when we have a time zone difference. See how long it takes your agent to reply your email, if they set up third party email management software like outlook, foxmail, they should be able to reply your email instantly. Instant messenger can be used to speed up the communication, text message can also be used for urgent contact.

Some tips to choose a utilitarian down jacket

Some tips to choose a utilitarian down jacket

With winter coming approaching, it’s a good idea to keep out the cold winter months with a genuine down jacket. However, with so many down jackets on offer, how do you make sure you choose the right one and not an inferior alternative? Here are some good tips when shopping for a down jacket:

Style:

Stylish and sensible jackets are the top elements you should consider.

Price:

Medium priced jackets are more likely to be good quality. If the price is low, the quality can’t be always be guaranteed.

Down content:

Down content is related to the jacket’s warmth. Generally, up to 70% down content is better.

Resilience:

The down power is better if it reinstate very quickly when you grab the down jacket and then loose it. In contrast, bad resilience down jacket is heavier.

Down proof capability:

The down fabric should be down proofed. A good down jacket would not have down coming out when you tap or shake it. However, it is normal for some down to come through the stitching.

Air permeability:

If a down jacket has bad air permeability, the sweat produce when you wear the jacket will make it uncomfortable to wear. This can result in the jacket becoming smelly.

Accessories

Normally, a down jacket has many accessories like zipper, button and so on. You should check if all is elegant, smooth and suitable tightness.

Spring 2013 wholesale clothing, what to look for?

When buying wholesale clothing, ask yourself this question. Is the wholesaler I’m buying from keeping up with the latest trends? A lot of wholesalers will purchase out of date fashion because of the lower price. Always keep an eye out on what the latest trends are.


1. check out your favorite fashion magazine or web site. Or you can also take a stroll through your local mall, browse through the stores and see what they are currently selling. One wholesale clothing company you should take a look at when you’re ready, is Los Angeles Wholesale. They have a really good eye for fashion and keep up with the latest fashion trends.

2.All eras are good, there are iconic styles from every decade. When deciding on what to sell in your store or web site, avoid pieces that will likely not stand the test of time. Specifically those with exaggerated details, which are normally only quick trends.

3.Check for quality, just because it looks good in a picture, doesn’t mean it is well made. Even without checking a label, I can often tell who the designer is by the quality of the clothing. Even if an item is not a well known designer, the quality of the clothing can make it as valuable as if it was.

4.Finally do your homework on the many different textiles used to produce clothing. With the internet at your finger tips, you should be able to get a good sense of the value of the item. Ask your clothing wholesaler for information on the apparel you are looking at, be an informed seller.

Top 5 issues to consider when doing business with China

1. Cultural Difference

You should already know that China has a totally different culture than your country, including Business Culture. Some approaches that worked in your country might not work well here. The first thing I would suggest is to hire a Cultural Consultant, so that you will know what is considered proper and improper behavior.

2. Know the Laws and Regulations

You should know what Chinese Contract Law says before you negotiate a contract, what Chinese Company Law provide before you set up a JV, and what Chinese Labor Laws state before you recruit staff. Hire a professional legal consultant.

3. Bilateral Political Relationship

You should be aware of the potential political risk, especially for investors from major western countries. Whether they admit it or not, many countries don’t like China or have had issues with China for a long time.

A recent example, the French President challenged the sovereignty of China by publicly meeting Tibetan separatist, Dalai Lama, which has greatly affected China-France economic relationship in the last year. French retailer company Carrefour has been boycotted by Chinese people due to that. So look at the political relationship between your country and China and evaluate what factors (religion, social system, territory dispute) might cause potential conflict between the two countries.

In the future, I think many countries will try to strengthen their good relations with China, because of the ever-growing Chinese Market. But for now, a potential investor cannot ignore the risks that political matters may affect their ventures.

4. Love China, Love Chinese, Love the culture

If you love China and love Chinese, you will be happy to be part of the society. You will learn local things, and be able to identify opportunities and problems. You will isolate yourself from the society if you don’t like China, Chinese, or Chinese Culture.

5. Find a good assistant

A good assistant can be your eyes and ears. It is very important for business and life. A good assistant will serve as a “How-to” Guide, will show you how to travel and where to relocate, as well as ways to recruit locally.

If you are interested in sample processing and small wholesale, you can contact us immediately , our colleagues in L.A. Sunny and Jane will be your good assistants , Tel: Sunny Zhao 323-620-4114

Email: serviceLA@wholesale-dress.net .

Buying small quantity from china: things you should know

China is world factory. Buying directly from factory is cheap. But you will find it is not an easy job and enjoyable experience to buy small quantity from Chinese factory. In this article, we will guide you how and where you could buy small volume from china.

Chinese factories set high MOQ

Small business buyers don’t buy container or thousands of goods to test the water. You might need to buy 100 pairs of shoes, 50 USB, 5 computers etc. Factories will ignore your inquiry if your quantity is so small, which don’t reach their minimum order quantity.

In this case, I would suggest to buy from wholesaler, not trying to buy from the factories directly. The price from wholesalers in China are also very competitive, in some cases, will be cheaper than buying direct from factory.

For example, if you are buying apparel from China, you should definitely visit. the top apparel wholesale market in China(such as Sijiqing in Zhejiang, Baima in Guangzhou). If you want to buy electronics products, buy from Shenzhen wholesale market.


Where you could buy small volume online
Aliexpress is a perfect place for small quantity purchase, aliexpress is set up by alibaba group, the sellers of aliexpress mostly are sellers on alibaba, so they are reliable(have been verified by alibaba). Most of all, they sell small quantity.Apart from aliexpress, dhgate.com and www.wholesale-dress.net are also reliable platform to buy from china.

Chinese suppliers in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Wholesale specializes in Apparel small wholesale and sample processing,as one of the Chinese biggest apparel e-commerce B2B company ,commits to help small and medium-sized brand apparel retailer and shop owner to optimize the supply chain and grow business .

They also have local high quality sales team in Los Angeles now,you can contact them if you are looking for apparel vendor..
Tel: 323-620-4114 323-448-8725
Email: serviceLA@wholesale-dress.net