fall 2021; into the woods

(A selection from a report created exclusively for the Accessories Council.)

Though times may be slightly more certain, never before have designers needed to lean in and focus on their community + global surroundings more to properly create for a world a year away. No longer can product developers, brands, + retailers not consider the “real world” as they curate product for the future. Knowing that the tenets of security, safety, + comfort still reign supreme, these attributes must be greatly considered in design and merchandising in a post-pandemic world. To their benefit, retailers investing in better-made, more seasonless goods as well as inclusive design + merchandising, can assure longer lasting product without sacrificing margin or retails, a mutually beneficial proposition in this slower, more thoughtful climate. 

However, expect that fall 2021 may be the first time that customers have somewhat of a sense of relief again, + a desire to once again dress and accessorize for fun + even a bit of frivolity. This won’t be a season of “going back to normal;” even more fantastical dressing will be grounded with elements of practicality + readiness. In some categories, especially handbags, a thought process focused on “essential” + new lifestyle rules will greatly influence the design and silhouettes customers seek to wear; though they are cautiously optimistic, customers will still be incredibly guarded + at the ready for whatever comes next.