If you are starting an online business in the fashion field do not leave out social media from your Internet marketing plan. According to an article by Macala Wright Lee of Fashion Marketing.me on Mashable Social Media Guide, social media changed the fashion industry five ways in 2009.

1) Nearly all brands from Sears and  JC Penny to Oscar De La Renta and Louis Vuitton are creating a presence in varied social communities, most notably Facebook.

2) Luxury brands are introducing their own social communities, such as Modepass.

3) Fashion brands are going mobile, with iPod rated top choice. Apps offer style trends, tips, important dates…

4) Style bloggers have an enormous impact on buyers.

5) Fashion sites are relying more on information from users. 

What does this mean for you?  Starting an online business in the fashion field is not easy, especially if you do not have a niche that differentiates you from the competitors. Social media has to be part of your marketing mix to promote and establish your Internet site.

Here is an online business guide to using social media for marketing your fashion business:

1) Carefully pay attention to what people are saying on forums. The users’ input can be an invaluable asset to you on product choice, marketing , pricing and competition.

2) Use the social media to build your brand name and credibility as a reliable source. Do not sell product, provide information.

3) Start a Business Fan Page on FaceBook, so customers can let you and others know what they appreciate about your products or services.

4) Join Twitter and leverage it to establish and promote your business. Make sure that you reach out to your specific niche target audience. Also, check out the competitors and see their Twitter strategy.

5) If you have not yet started your blog, then get going. Use it for a two-way communication vehicle with present and potential customers.

6) As noted elsewhere on Online-business-guide, use a variety of different ways to gain input from your Web site visitors, such as surveys, e-mail, forums and product reviews.