What I like about these stores
Shopping at H&M, Zara or Jack Jones means for me to get clothes that are cheap and simple. Where have all the socks gone? Where do I get a plain, black sweater? Shit, my belt just fell into pieces, where do I get a new one quickly? These stores have and sell the answer. And that’s what they are good for. You have to admit, there is no better place for such basic needs. That’s quite a narrow claim to answer, but I guess H&M & Co. won’t bother me for that.
But that’s because I have my reasons, strictly speaking that’s
What I dislike about these stores
First of all, though I don’t visit these stores that often, in most cases I can tell if somebody wears something from these companies. That is, as I think, because most of their tees, tops, shirts, coats etc. basically suck. That’s a matter of opinion, of course. Though not a matter of good style.
There is another issue that bothers me from time to time. I don’t want to appear to be pretentious or arrogant but anyway, this issue just shows how the fashion industry works. You might know Lookbook and others, some major and minor fashion blogs or other media that records somewhat of the current stylse that evolve throughout the cities and countries of the world. The internet features prominently in this development and, in fact, is able to register trends being so fresh that only a few contribute to. Thus said, I speak about clothes that you cannot buy at the next H&M or Zara store, you have to discover them and decide whether they fit or not. Many people enjoy to develop their own sense of style beyond ordinary assortments that serve thousands and millions. It is part of their lifestyle to constantly and freely shape their imagination of good style. I would consider myself as one of them so I share the same problem.
Example: Two years ago I bought a green vintage uniform with brass buttons because I simply liked it and it contributed to my style. That was just when the trend arose, though mostly women pushed it. I loved my jacket like others love their jackets, whatever they might look like, and everything was fine. But then, one or two months ago Zara and later H&M discovered these neat little uniforms to design their own and sell them throughout the world. Actually, it is rather the marching band style, but still some kind of military. I would be completely fine with it if it wouldn’t mean to see all these people wearing those (actually awful looking) uniforms just because they look „soooo cool“. Today, as I stood in line at H&M’s there was this young girl, probably 13 years old, podgy, wearing a Palestinian scarf, ska-style Vans, skin-tight black denim and bought one of these uniforms. I‘m glad she was happy about her latest purchase but actually it didn’t contribute to her style. Because she had none.
It is sad that there are so many people that just catch the trends the major fashion chains digged out more than a year delayed and don’t think about how it all looks in interaction. Just go to Italy, France or Sweden and you‘ll see much more people that actually found their style. No matter if you would wear anything of what you can see there, you have to admit it harmonises.
This post might be complete bullshit, however, I can only wish that Germans eventually become more sophisticated and inventive when it comes to fashion. At least so I won’t get angry I cocked all the money up I spent for clothes during the holiday…
Current mood: Head-shaking.
Currently listening to: Junior Boys - Work (Prins Thomas Remix)
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