UK-inspired fashion items and accessories provide retail opportunities thanks to the Royal family, the London Olympics and popular television program, Downton Abbey.
According to global sourcing site Alibaba.com’s new data, there has been significant increases in inquires for goods that tap into the ‘Best of British’ zeitgeist – be it the country’s traditional wedding attire or Downton Abbey-inspired vintage sun dresses and elbow-length gloves.
Online jewellery retailer, Tessa Hartnett, CEO of Vurge Jewellery, has witnessed these consumer trends and as a result, launched a new online business – Fascinators Australia.
“Fascinators Australia took off with organic growth as soon as the business went live online thanks to the popularity of period shows like Downton Abbey and of course Prince William and Kate’s wedding,” she says.
“It’s no surprise to us that Australia is leading the charge in fascinator trends as all of our customers are looking for unique pieces to wear at weddings, formals and horse racing carnivals. During the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, we also noticed a spike in traffic to our site.”
As the UK inspires the world, retailers are presented with an opportunity to capitalise on the trend with experts claiming it won’t end any time soon. In fact, Daphne Lee, Alibaba.com senior manager, international corporate affairs, believes the figures will continue to rise.
“With the London Olympics only weeks away, the popularity of British style is unlikely to waiver. It is expected that the surge in demand for British inspired products experienced will continue to increase, especially with talk of a royal baby.”