Exploring the influence of developing a mobile app for a fashion enterprise

In the ever-evolving world of retail, one trend is undeniably shaping the future - mobile commerce. Leading the charge is Nordstrom, a renowned fashion retailer, who has embraced this digital revolution and encouraged consumers to shop online via mobile apps.

The mobile landscape is rapidly expanding, with smartphones increasingly replacing traditional cell phones, high-end PCs, and laptops. Individuals of all ages are relying on mobile apps to streamline their daily tasks. As a result, fashion brands cannot afford to overlook this marketing strategy, risking being left behind in the dust among those yet to go mobile.

This mobile shift was evident as early as 2010, with several fashion companies launching mobile apps, although specific names from that year are hard to pinpoint. However, Boohoo Group, established in 2006, is known to have joined the bandwagon later, achieving significant mobile customer engagement by 2017, suggesting early mobile efforts around that period.

Nordstrom took the plunge in 2012, launching mobile shopping apps on both Android and iOS platforms. Meanwhile, DVF, another fashion powerhouse, initially limited buying from their app only within business hours. However, in 2010, they launched an iOS app with limited features, allowing customers to view fashion sense videos, store locations, and product lines.

The adoption of mobile apps by fashion retailers has proven to be a smart and efficient way to connect with consumers. In 2011, clothing and accessories were the second-highest mobile-purchased items, with 37% sold through mobile apps. Today, fashion businesses view mobile apps as a crucial tool for building personal relationships with customers and fostering customer loyalty.

One notable example is Sephora, whose mobile app encourages shoppers to watch themselves and repeat the steps like an expert. Sephora also launched an iPad app with a digital mirror feature, using the iPad's front camera to show the customer's face and a video of a fashion expert giving makeup tips.

The fashion industry is not the only sector embracing mobile app development. Whether it's creating grocery delivery apps or other kinds of applications, businesses across the board are considering app development. For fashion businesses, converting their WooCommerce websites to mobile apps could be a beneficial step.

Mobile apps have broken geographical barriers, making shopping more accessible than ever. According to Google insights, 79% of smartphone consumers use their mobile phones for shopping, comparing prices, finding product information, and locating a retailer. Moreover, 71% of smartphone shoppers search for fashion brands on their phones due to ad exposure.

Perhaps most importantly, mobile apps have a significant impact on customer recommendations. 24% of smartphone shoppers recommend a brand or product to others because of a smartphone search. Furthermore, 74% of smartphone shoppers make a purchase, whether online, in-store, or on their mobile phones.

With over a hundred million people using smartphones, the potential for mobile commerce in the fashion industry is immense. As strategic planning, execution, innovation, monitoring, and regular improvements become the norm in fashion e-branding, we can expect to see more fashion retailers adopting mobile apps to grow their online presence and connect with their customers in new and exciting ways.