Abercrombie & Fitch Women's Review [Pre-Fall 2024]

Outline

Introduction

Big Picture Thoughts

Core Trend: Square Necks

Personal Favorites

Conclusion

Introduction

After having yet another successful season, it seems that Abercrombie is here to stay as a leader in Gen Z fashion.

To me, the magic of A&F was their ability to seamlessly pivot their brand image to cater to a new audience.

Remember this? Abercrombie used to be an exclusionary brand that was only meant for "it" conventionally attractive people who were better than you in every way.

They also had an incredibly problematic CEO who, according to one of my former professors, was known for making uncomfortable comments to models.

But through getting to know what Gen Z wants over time A&F emerged as a leader that's hard to miss.

Today, the brand is known for being more inclusive, modern, and malleable to the current customer.

Big Picture Thoughts

My biggest critique of A&F is that from afar their assortment seems to be the same as it was a year ago.

But, I'll acknowledge that this isn't REALLY their fault.

Their goal as a retailer is to cater to the demand of their target customer, and, despite it being in last year, thick mom denim seems to not be going anywhere in the market, and by proxy, A&F's assortment.

In the future, I'd love to see an A&F Women's collection that's driven by color and bold shapes, but, again, I acknowledge that it's in A&F's best interest to play to their brand's most reputable strength, being stylish but safe.

Yet, if you look a little closer it's obvious that this season things are different and a bit ... darker.

This season is dominated by darker colors, sharp silhouettes, and a polished look with its vests, wide-legged pants, and tweed.

Additionally, as someone who was (briefly) an apparel designer, I have a lot of respect for the fit and construction of this collection.

Everything, at least on the models, fits perfectly.

Abercrombie pays attention to the details when presenting themselves and I'm glad people have noticed.

Core Trend - Square Neckline ("Squareneck"

I saw these slowly emerging during my final semester of college and am glad to see that they're going to stay for Fall 2024.

I especially love the squareneck vests because I think they offer a fresh take on a traditional shape that needed change.

Knowing the tier of patternmaking required to have this shape makes me even more appreciative of this trend and you'll see that reflected in my personal favorites.

Personal Favorites

A unique twist on a classic design, this cropped trench coat is my personal favorite from A&F this season.

Link: Click Here

Price: $120.00

Size: XXS-XL

Pros: Fashionable Style & Nice Fabric

Cons: Timely Style

Tweed has been in luxury fashion for a while and has finally reached A&F this season.

Link: Click Here

Price: $98.00

Size: XXS-XL

Pros: Cool Fabric & Great Fit

Cons: Difficult to Wash

The square neckline makes this vest a bold choice that suggests sophistication without sacrificing style.

Link: Click Here

Price: $60.00

Size: XXS-XXL

Pros: Cool Neckline & Great Fit

Cons: Selling Fast

Made with A&F's signature sturdy denim, this midi skirt is built to last.

Link: Click Here

Price: $48.00

Size: 24-24

Pros: Sturdy Fabric

Cons: Difficult to Style

Conclusion

After returning from a difficult period Abercrombie & Fitch is becoming more and more relevant and this season proves that.

I'm glad to see the highly talked about American design company continue to satisfy customers with its polished black, white, and white-wash aesthetic.

In a highly critical and brand-loyal market, it can be easy to think that customers are stuck in their ways.

However, A&F shows that with diligent research, strategic marketing, and patience, Generation Z will appear, ready for something new.