I think this is very interesting:  apparel retailers are finding that back-to-schoolers and other customers are buying tops, not bottoms.  The theory is that consumers are planning to recycle last year’s still-fashionable skinny jeans, plaid skirts and straight pants and save money by focusing on items worn from the waist up.  An analyst at fashion consulting firm Tobe says, “If you’re sitting at a desk or a table, people notice what you’re wearing on top, not bottom.”

True enough.

I feel as if this may be the first time we’ve seen such a specific buying trend in recent history: one that isn’t about the rush to buy this hot shoe or sweater but is, instead, an across-the -board crafty response to hard times. 

Aeropostale is responding with half-price t-shirts and low-priced sweaters and vests; J Crew is featuring patterned scarves that can be used to dress up last year’s top or jacket. 

I would work very hard to keep bottoms inventories lean, and merchandise both my bricks-and-mortar and online stores to show the many different outfits that could be put together with a customer’s existing pieces and cute new tops.  Consumers aren’t all that creative:  we tend to wear the same things with – well – the same things.  Promote multiple options and usage occasions to help the buyer feel that the piece is worth the investment.
Aeropostale”back to school”shopping