“Select Shops” Culture

The first time I came across the term “select shop” was in Korea where I spent my years studying there. Immediately I thought of a boutique which is not something new but it made me wonder what it is about these boutiques in Korea that fascinates me and my friends as there are boutiques all around Europe that have never piqued my attention.

This retail format “Select Shop” comes from the Japanese retail system and it is a lifestyle boutique different from the types of boutiques that I have come across in Europe which have integrated a luxury concept. In a select shop, a retailer offers goods from different brands and producers that are chosen with an eye toward a unique concept or aesthetic. By selecting designers it has served also as a platform for unknown designers who have become well-known after reaching their target market through the curated store. 

Select shops in Korea and Japan are deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural trends and lifestyle movements. They act as trendsetters, introducing new styles and promoting local designers. These shops often influence and reflect broader cultural trends, making them key players in the dynamic fashion scene.

The design and ambiance of Korean or Japanese select shops are key elements of their appeal. Each shop is thoughtfully designed to create an inviting and inspiring environment. Whether it’s minimalist and modern or eclectic and artistic, the atmosphere enhances the shopping experience and reflects the shop’s brand identity.

Living in Seoul made me realize that there are countless different Select Shops and each of them has its concept targeting a specific type of customer. By this, I mean their ability to curate readily mixed-and-matched goods for consumers who don't particularly “enjoy” making their own clothing choices. These Select Shops can also produce their line of products, act as trendsetters, and provide easy access to new brands. These smaller boutiques select small domestic labels and notable international brands and they’re often the first step in introducing shoppers to young labels. The most enjoyable aspect for me was finding new small brands. I think small brands bring true innovation and originality to an increasingly homogenized world, and that makes me more supportive of them because it makes me feel like I value their talent and passion. This is why I like Select Stores better than big retail stores.

On the other hand, because these products are rare to a certain market and they carry hidden costs they stock and sell products for a higher price. All the factors that make them unique and different from others as mentioned can also be translated to higher prices. Is this always a good thing? Is having a unique personal style equivalent to more expensive clothes? Is it important to draw attention to something's cost to emphasize its significance?

These questions always follow me and I could guess they might be hot topics at a table of people too.