Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify the characteristics of currently targeted consumers of the fashion enterprises. It also aims to assess the value of consumer-related variables that are related to market segmentation. In order to identify the characteristics of targeted consumers, the contents of brand concept and target of 143 brands for women's clothing, and 79 brands for men's clothing were qualitatively analyzed. The results are as follows. First, the demographic characteristics of both male and female included the desire to appear younger, and be more youthful in sensibilities than their actual age. In terms of occupation, male had more variety and concreteness than female. Male and female were above middle class, with an emphasis on being a part of the new generation, one that is young, free, healthy, and leisurely. Second, the psychological and behavioral characteristics of both male and female consumers included the benefit sought of the following: rationality, economy, practicality, functionality, individuality, fashionability, and aesthetics. Their fashion orientations were found to be practical, rational, fashionable, expressive of individual style, and aesthetic sensibilities. Their lifestyles were characterized by elements such as rationality, smartness, urban, active, healthy, young, leisurely, and stable. In terms of the spirit, female had a tendency to be intelligent, elegant, and sensitive, while also being self-reliant, self-disciplined, and unafraid of challenging situations. The male consumers had a tendency to be rational, progressive, passionate, and embracing change, with emphasis on legitimacy, honor, success, pride, and affluence. Third, the usefulness of consumer-related variables in targeting consumers was different according to male and female. These results show that there is a need for these variables to be looked at more closely during market segmentation process. This research may be used as base material in setting up the brand concept and the target market.