Lets Hear it for the Boys!!!

As I am sure many of you know Natalie Massenet, founder of net-a-porter.com recently announced the company will be spreading it’s wings and launching Mr Porter ready for the Spring/Summer 2011 season.

The site which aims to go ‘live’ in January is set to be the first global shopping destination of its kind, working with an edited line up that includes designer labels and niche brands, as well as sharing editorial and style advice. No stone has been left unturned in their quest for an independent world-class team who will be responsible for powering, curating and editing the new venture and no doubt leading it to the top of the style stakes. 

A very clever twist to this fashion tale (especially in the PR world that I inhabit) is the timing of this announcement, as Mr Porter is set to launch exactly ten years to the day after net-a-porter was founded. Now that’s clever… not only are they reaching a monumental birthday that will no doubt dominate fashion headlines across the board, but they’re launching a new endeavor as well. Double whammy!

It got me thinking about men and the style stakes. We’re bombarded with images of stylish men everyday with the likes of Christopher Bailey Tom Ford and Mark Ronson regularly topping the charts but what about the mere mortals? 

Hailing from bonny Essex I am used to the scorn that is regularly heaped upon our fashion sense as a county. I know every punch line involving white stilettos, acrylic nails and hair extensions, but I’ve got to say it our boys really give it some gusto… bless them! 

Essex boys out on the razzle

They may happen to be fans of side swept hair and have an unusual obsession with Gucci loafers – but they don’t half scrub up ok, in fact I am sure many have wardrobes that eclipse mine. And whilst they may not take many bold steps within the fashion arena (trust me no Charlie Le Mindu wigs would be spotted in Faces nightclub on a Saturday) they are bloody big spenders (thanks to their banker wages) and undeniably one of the markets that Mr Porter hope to tap into.  

With more than 60 top menswear brands to be featured on Mr Porter including Burberry, Ralph Lauren, YSL, Gucci, Dunhill, Margaret Howell, Rick Owens, John Lobb and MR by the designer, Roland Mouret it appears there will be something for everyone when the site eventually launches. Not to mention the mums, daughters, sisters and spouses that will all have a one-stop shop to visit 24/7 perfect for last minute pressie buying for the man in their life.

“We have a ready-made customer base for our men’s business. 100% of our customers have a man in their lives in some capacity and 59% of them are married or living with their partners.” Natalie Massenet.

It seems a win/win situation for all involved. Natalie Massenet and all those at Net-a-porter empire, I salute you! 

Lxxx