Imitation is Flattery

Guess Goes Upmarket, by John Clarke Jr.

Following a trend set by J Crew and Banana Republic, Guess is slipping into the high-end retail market with its new Guess by Marciano Black Label for men. What can you expect? Well, for one thing, higher prices — the line will be 30% to 40% higher than the brand’s regular men’s togs. The dressier line will launch in September and include slim-fitting runway-inspired tailored clothing, blazers, vests, and woven dress shirts, shoes, cufflinks, and ties. They’ll even have tie clips. TIE CLIPS!

It seems many retailers are heading in this direction.  The success of the J.Crew Collection has shown that shoppers, myself included, are willing to pay for those quality, limited item pieces.