Wet Seal Archives

Wet Seal Clothing Closes Down – The End of an Era

Arianne SuggsUpdated on February 28, 2017February 28, 2017Leave a Comment

This is what it sounds like when malls cry. It’s official, major fashion brand Wet Seal clothing closes down joining a scary growing list of store closings. There is definitely a disturbance in the fashion realm. What in the world is going on?

Wet Seal Clothing Closes Down – The End of an Era

First Aeropostale and now Wet Seal. Last year, Aeropostale sent shock waves throughout the couture industry when news hit they were filing for bankruptcy. Moreover, the move also meant that they would be closing over 150 stores.

Nevertheless, Aeropostale was not the only brand to feel the decrease in storefronts pinch. 2016 was a savage year that by most definition sucked for everyone and any breathing thing. Abercrombie and Finch experienced a lost of 60 stores. The cause? By all accounts the brand had apparently lost its “cool factor” as well as teen consumers.

Therefore, the real question is why aren’t teens choosing to purchase from huge mall stores anymore? Also, where is their attention now turning to? Let’s quickly investigate.

The Teen Market- Keeping It 100

One thing that we remember learning in high school is the ugly truth about life. Literally, the bubble was burst. By the time we were old enough to collect Social Security and retire there would actually be zero funds for us. Moreover, even going to college wouldn’t change the fact that there are only so many jobs. Plus, oh yeah we would most likely be working to our death beds because by time we are older the retirement age would be higher than 65. Lucky us right?

We could go on and on, but why be such a negative Nelly today. The fact is these simple truths have caused a swift in the thinking of the under 25 crowd. If brands want to compete they need produce products that people actually want at an affordable price point. This is because money is an issue and we are not just going to spend our hard earned cash on just anything with a major brand tag.

Many brands have failed to recognize the times and have lost touch with their market. That same hoodie that was sold at the mall a decade ago for a high price is being left on the rack to collect dust. RIP.

Nevertheless, the new school generation is also not here for social injustices or divisions. If a brand is caught only hiring only certain individuals or mistreating staff members; in seconds its all over social media and a decrease in sales is soon to follow.

Moreover, there is an increase in the desire to have high quality clothes that won’t wear out quickly. Some brands have chosen to cheap out on materials and young consumers have thus chosen to take their business elsewhere. Plus, this group lived through the recession that occurred after 9/11. They saw family and friends lose everything and now they have learned to be even more frugal. Studies show that with online spending almost 70% choose to look at reviews before purchasing a product. So if a brand’s stuff sucks, we know about it and we won’t be opening our wallets.

Wet Seal Clothing Closes

We can’t lie, we loved Wet Seal. Bought some of the best denim ever from there. Jeans that actually fit and fit well. Plus, it was a store that we grew up with and was very much a mall staple. After grabbing a Mrs. Field’s cookie you went there. Certainly an end to an awesome era.

For weeks, Wet Seal had been preparing for the inevitable. Signs of closure was everywhere even online. It started with the sales indicating that every remaining article of fashion had to go. From dresses to accessories, nothing could remain.

On the last day of shopping Wet Seal announced that all items would be 90% off. However, by that point many stores had already closed, with mall maintenance workers confirmed they were removing Wet Seal’s store signage. Nevertheless, is this truly the end for Wet Seal clothing?

Hang on tight dolls Wet Seal may still have a tiny pulse. The brand released the following statement:

“Thanks Babe, it’s been real. We hope you’ve had as much fun as we have and are ready for more! It has been an honor to provide the most driven, passionate and empowered girls the latest in fashion for the past 55 years. Your dedication and loyalty has us working on a new and improved Wet Seal. Continue to check us out and in the coming days we’ll share more on what’s ahead.”

Thoughts on Wet Seal Clothing Closes Down – The End of an Era? Join the discussion and talk all things Wet Seal as well as fashion related by dropping a comment like its hot down low. Or also hit us up on our Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest or tweet us @1966magazine.

Fashion

On the Scene: Wet Seal I Define Pretty Launch Party

Arianne Suggs September 2, 2016September 2, 2016Leave a Comment

We recently got to chat with fashion brand Wet Seal at their Wet Seal I Define Pretty launch party! We gabbed about everything from the 90s, social media and of course T to the R to the E-N-D-S. Say it with us dolls, “Trends!” Also, we checked out their newest designs and found some pretty sick couture pieces for fall 2016.

Wet Seal I Define Pretty Launch Party

We came, we saw and we left in such a glamorous LA mood. The Wet Seal I Define Pretty launch party was a night full of style, models and tons of Cali flair. The music was popping and the vibe was gloriously energetic.

The stylish soirée was held in downtown Los Angeles at the fabulous, The Well. The Well is known as THE spot when it comes to getting what’s hot in fashion now. Here’s a short video recap of our fashion night on the town!

The Chat

We’ve been obsessed with Wet Seal since we were tweens. However, this isn’t the same Wet Seal. As we perused garment after garment, piece after piece the verdict was official. Our tween and teen fave store had underwent a major overhaul. Plus, to keep it totally one hundred… We loved the change!

We caught up with Wet Seal VP of Marketing, Angelo D’Agostino who filled us in on how it all came about. Angelo told us that the brand really wants to get back to that good ol’ edgy, effortlessly chic Cali style. The type of look that could really translate to girls all across the country.

A lot of the going out to the club looks have vanished and gone away. Wet Seal is leaving that to other brands. In its place are modern, voguish looks that feel like the 90s but revamped. They are really making moves to help consumers view them as a causal brand that does relaxed couture better than anyone else. From the look of their fall 2016 collection as well as awesome fabric choices they are well on their way.

Their Social is in Formation

Social media is the fastest and simplest way for brands to open up a dialogue with their loyal fan base. Who of us doesn’t check a snap, hashtag or post to find out what’s new? Unless your a cave girl most likely you’re on social media for all your fashion needs.

Wet Seal is all over it when it comes getting social. From an all out Snapchat assault to new hashtag campaigns perf for the Gram. Wet Seal is staying at the forefront of showcasing trends fit for the “It Girl.”

Their newest campaign “I Define Pretty” is paving the way and opening up conversation between the brand and their consumer. Wet Seal girls can share what pretty means to them. This accomplishes a few things. For one, it helps to empower and inspire young women. Secondly, it builds trust and a stronger connection between Wet Seal and their buyers.

D’Agostino even described social media “as our biggest broadcasting tool.” Therefore, if you want to keep up with WS just use the tech right at your fingertips. Moreover, Wet Seal is also utilizing brand ambassadors as well as brand influencers to tell their fashion stories. So then, you can continue to see girls like you that truly understand how an OOTD should really be rocked!

Wet Seal I Define Pretty Must-Haves!

As soon as we walked through the door we instantly saw a kimono with our name all over it. This year Japanese influence has found its way all over the fashion scene. Case in point, Philip Plein who created a plethora of kimono inspired outer wear for fall.

We fell in love with Wet Seal’s kimono for several reasons. Here in Cali we really don’t have autumn. Its kinda like summer number two with slightly cooler temps. Especially, in the valley. Therefore, a light weight option to take off the occasional chill is always appreciated.

Denim should never be a bore. Which is why we were filled with more glee than a high school chorus when we spotted pair after pair of distressed jeans. In keeping with their other sleek fall looks Wet Seal’s jeans are distressed without looking extremely tortured. You can easily pair these jeans with a cute crop top, sweater or graphic tee.

Slogan and statement tees have definitely made a comeback during 2016. A popular trend of the 90s, the look is cool with a sophisticated twist. It shows you stand for something and are basically “woke.”

We made our way to the I Define Pretty tee and immediately started creating outfits in our head. So far, we are thinking the shirt with a leather jacket and black skirt. Tell us how you would style this awesome tee and don’t forget to enter Wet Seal’s contest online! Head to their IG for full disclosure and details.

Nothing says young California Boss Lady like a bomber jacket. Head to school or a part time job while defying the cool morning air. Also, the jacket just reads trendy. So then, you’ll instantly add some serious je ne sais quoi to any ensemble.

Thoughts on Wet Seal I Define Pretty Launch Party? Talk all things fashion with us by dropping a comment like its hot down low. Or hit us up on our Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr or tweet us @1966magazine.

Fashion

Wet Seal Fashion Event with Mame Adjei From Top Model!

Arianne SuggsUpdated on September 2, 2016September 2, 2016Leave a Comment

Wet Seal hosted an amazing night of fashion, shopping, music, and drink Wednesday night with Mame from America’s Next Top Model! Mame Adjei helped usher in the brand’s latest campaign, IDEFINEPRETTY.

Wet Seal Fashion Event with Mame Adjei From Top Model

(Los Angeles, CA) In recognition of Wet Seal’s re-brand, the Southern California–based company hosted a fun–filled night of music, drinks, shopping, and fashion. The fab event was held at The Well in downtown Los Angeles on Wednesday, August 31. The brand’s latest styles were on hand for guests to shop for free. Furthermore, Wet Seal officially launched their latest campaign with Mame Adjei from America’s Next Top Model called IDEFINEPRETTY.

BTS Shot of the Upcoming Campaign, Mame Giving FACE! YASSS!

The program, which encourages young women to define what pretty means to them, runs through the entire month of September. Moreover, Mame, who works with schools for youth empowerment, is shooting for the campaign with fellow model Aarika Wolf. The shoot went down like a DM on Thursday, September 1. Both models being shot wearing a custom IDEFINEPRETTY t-shirt.

The Deets

The event, was an action packed night that included LA’s most notable influencers, tastemakers, fashionistas, and more. For instance, Emily Mei, Cathy Kim, and Minh Pham, sipped on tasty cocktails and mingled with friends. Also, Model Sam Blacky kept the crowd in high spirits with her upbeat DJ set.

Moreover, models such as Alanna Whittaker, Sara Mia, and Brittny Ward kept it cute while shopping new fall looks. Wet Seal’s VP of Brand Marketing, Angelo D’Agostino, delivered a warming speech about the latest campaign. He acknowledged the new direction the brand is heading while thanking guests for their attendance and support. Other highlights included Mame Adjei snapping pics with guests, the DJ, and the Wet Seal team, offering a bevy of Instagram-worthy posts, and a gaggle of hilarious Snapchat moments.

Thoughts on Wet Seal Fashion Event with Mame Adjei From Top Model? Join the discussion by dropping a comment like its hot down low. Or hit us up on our Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr or tweet us @1966magazine.