When it comes to shopping, we all love a good bargain. It is always quite satisfying when our latest purchase is in keeping with the seasonal styles, let alone when bought for a reasonable price. Understanding the demand, Primark founded themselves on the basis that affordable fashion is always on trend. Established in 1969 and originally known as Penneys, Primark began dressing the men and women of Great Britain and have ever since, wowed us with their collections whilst allowing our penny jar to stay half full.
Affordable fashion often comes hand in hand with criticisms about labour exploitation and cheap supply chains and Primark are no exception to this. Despite accusations, Primark are part of the Ethical Trading Initiative showing their conscious efforts to improve their supply chains, labour rights and environmental impacts. The store is developing alongside their ethical standards to maintain employee satisfaction and to ensure all our purchases are guilt free. So what’s next on their agenda?
Primark have recently publicised their AW12 collection and as soon as we heard, we raced to see what was in store. It seems Primark have really upped their game. The new collection looks stylish and right on trend with floral prints, embellished collars and Aztec inspired jewellery as well cable knits and soft wools in keeping with the heritage look. We can’t wait for its release for two reasons. Firstly, to update our winter wardrobes and secondly, to see if Primark have ticked the last box; it may be fashionable and affordable but is it good quality? One of the main concerns about Primark as a budget brand revolves around fit and quality and there is a niggle in our head that worries the amazing collection will be let down by loose seams and impermanent fabrics. Perhaps we are being sceptical but doesn’t good fashion deserve good quality? Either way, we are sure the collection will be dressing every woman in the UK and are confident it will be trending here at the MSL office.
Marni Banks