Retail Strategist Says It's The Season Of Spending For Floridians
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - New research from the University of Florida revealed consumer confidence in the Sunshine State is at a 7-year high.
Retail strategist Cynthia Cohen, who advises some of the nation's biggest brands on how to best reach consumers, said retailers are ready.
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"The biggest trend of the season is wearable tech," she said. "What's new is wearable tech in jewelry, so you can't tell someone is wearing a fitness tracker."
Cohen said Tory Birch is introducing a health monitor casing that doubles as jewelry and that there's huge anticipation for the new Google watch.
According to Cohen, the way consumers can buy these products is also changing and merchants are geared for it.
"People love to use their plastic, but you will also see retailers accepting the new Apple Pay and even PayPal," she said.
Neiman Marcus is introducing a new app this year that allows shoppers to take photos of shoes and handbags. The system recognizes the pictures and instantly takes shoppers to a page where they can order the item.
"It's as simple as taking a picture of my shoes, finding out where it's sold and ordering it," said Cohen.
Cohen said look for explosive growth in mobile and web sales this year.
For example, Target is projecting a 40 percent increase in online sales.
But what about clothing styles on the rise?
Cohen recommends anything with fringe is in for gentlemen looking to buy for that special person in their life. She said retailer Boston Proper is the first place they should look.
"Fringe is fun and has a lot of movement," she said.
For the gentlemen in your life, Cohen suggests a gingham shirt.
"Purchase one with a great pattern and bright colors," she said.
James Solberg, manager at Thomas Pink in Bal Harbour, said oversized checks are the new way to show off gingham.
"Checks are very big with the British. It's time for American guys to take a hint from that," he said.
Cohen said the fashion trend for men this year is more refined, better dressed.
"You'll see more button ups, and sorry Ralph, less polo shirts."
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