You might not have known it, but more clothing and related accessories are sold online through eBay than any other website. Now, with the launch of eBay Fashion (fashion.ebay.com), the company is looking to build on that performance by offering an enhanced shopping destination that includes an online mall (Brooks Brothers, Lord & Taylor and others are signed up) plus a flash sales site option similar to Gilt.com, Hautelook.com, Ruelala.com and others.
"EBay Fashion delivers a visually rich and easy-to-navigate shopping experience for savvy style seekers and bargain hunters alike, making it simple to browse and buy from the world's largest online selection of new, used and vintage clothing, shoes and accessories," said Lorrie Norrington, president of eBay Marketplaces, in a press release. "So whether you want to shop for leading fashion brands, or buy from a trusted eBay seller with an eye for vintage clothes and the perfect accessories, eBay Fashion is a one-stop destination for style and value."
Last year, eBay's 10 million buyers purchased $7.1 billion in clothing, according to an Associated Press report, and the online giant is hoping that its new look, expanded selection and buying options will grow that business even higher. The company estimates that it will have 19 million new and used clothing items available for purchase online every day.
Forrester Research analyst Sucharita Mulpuru told The Associated Press that to be successful, eBay will have to overcome to a degree its "reputation for selling used goods," upgrade the look and experience of shopping on the site and provide "access to a phenomenal supply of merchandise that is priced well.'
Discussion Questions: Will eBay's new approach to fashion vault it to greater heights in the category? What do you see as the primary challenges to be overcome? Where are the greatest opportunities?