“But today there is a new woman – a modern woman – who knows what she wants.” – Andre Fauvel
Markets, trends, and economies change. Businesses that don’t adapt fade away. In Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris, the House of Dior faces a decision: does it maintain its exclusivity and business model of custom-made haute couture and risk going bankrupt or embrace a new business model that offers a line of more affordable luxury goods. The company leadership asks: what makes the brand what it is and can that essence be moulded into a new form? What would we need to do to stay in business and keep our people employed? Is it worth it?
I know these are questions and decisions faced by many fashion brands today. Change isn’t easy, and neither are the circumstances that necessitate it. Behind the fashion shows and glossy press coverage, many brands are just scraping by wondering how they are going to pay for their next payroll or fabric order. Staying the same is not an option.
Even knowing this, that doesn’t make change any easier. The unknown is risky and uncomfortable. After years or decades of pouring their lives into the business, some people decide that it isn’t worth it anymore. Instead of yet another new challenge, some people in fashion – like Madame Colbert in Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris – just want to be left alone.
We’ve seen so many slow fashion businesses close down this past year and it is sad to see. I understand, though. Things aren’t working the way they are. The industry needs to change. The greater economy and global mindset around fashion needs to change. To keep a fashion business going amidst all of this requires constant change as well.
Is keeping up with all the change worth it? Only you know the answer for you and your business.
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is a good reminder to give yourself and others grace regardless of your decision. There is a lot going on behind the scenes.