Banished Retail Words & Phrases

 Under the bus, I say!

1. "Tarzhay" - No longer cute . . . or relevant, as Target focuses relentlessly on the "pay less" side of its "Expect more. Pay less" tagline.  I'm ready for Target to get its groovy back; however, I'll keep this one locked away regardless.
2. "Fast Fashion" - Fast is now table stakes.  Fashion?  Not so much.  Suggested replacement: "clothes."
3. "Fashionista" - Banned until further notice . . . (Notice of a discernable and compelling fashion trend . . . and people who will clamor for it).
4. "Cheap Chic" - Cheap is now table stakes.  Chic?  Not so much.
5. "New Normal" - Implies that things will arrive at a point and sit for a bit.  They won't.  I think Seth Godin's blog nailed it.
6. "In These Economic times" - Aren't ALL times these economic times?
7. "Stick to Your Knitting" - Banished from use when referring to retailers exploring new categories.  The core is no more!
8. "Brand DNA" - Real DNA is static.  Brand essence changes (sometimes with the wind).

 We need a new term for . . .

1. "Private Label" - No longer always private and not just a label.  Feels long in the tooth.
2. "Social Networking" - Ill-defined.  Overused. Help!

What would you add? Hit "comments" and let 'er rip!

Comments

[Nathan G.]

LOL!
Have been especially annoyed by "new normal." I'd like to see "convergence" go away. It's used to describe everything from technology to organizational processes without shedding any light on either one.
Love your blog - thanks!