As an online retailer targeting the youth market, you know how important it is to stay on top of the latest trends. One emerging trend that’s gaining serious traction is the intersection of food and fashion, driven by Gen Z’s desire for “micro-moments of joy” or what we at WGSN call “Glimmers.” In this article, we’ll explore how you can capitalize on the #FoodInFashion craze to delight your customers and boost sales.
Table of Contents
1. Why food is the hottest new fashion inspiration
2. Creative ways to incorporate food motifs in your designs
3. Smart strategies for testing and producing food-inspired apparel
4. Examples of successful food and fashion brand collaborations
1. Why food is the hottest new fashion inspiration
Gen Z consumers are fueling the rise of “treat culture,” elevating indulgent foods and sweet treats to cult status on social media. Food is becoming the new fashion status symbol, with young people eagerly sharing and hyping the latest culinary trends. By tapping into this, you can attract Gen Z shoppers looking for apparel that expresses their foodie passions and helps them flaunt their great taste, literally.
2. Creative ways to incorporate food motifs in your designs
Building on the Chefcore aesthetic, consider embracing both sweet and savory food items in your designs, from jelly and baked goods to ramen. Make it feel fun and guilt-free. A realistic, painterly style works well for all-over repeat prints or standalone graphics. For a subtler take suited to a more mature market, try small embroidered food icons or incorporate the motifs into intarsia knitwear.
3. Smart strategies for testing and producing food-inspired apparel
With any emerging trend, it’s wise to test the waters before going all-in. Onshore digital printing allows you to nimbly produce small batches, gauge demand, and avoid overproduction as you launch your food-inspired collections. You can quickly respond to the motifs and styles that get the most hype. This agile approach positions you to make the most of the #FoodInFashion opportunity.
4. Examples of successful food and fashion brand collaborations
Another avenue to explore is partnering with popular local eateries for limited-edition collaboration pieces. Notable examples include Londonʼs Peachy Den teaming up with BeauBeaus cafe and Umbro Korea’s collection with Wild Duck & Canteen. The right collab can earn you cred with culinary-obsessed Gen Z shoppers. Just make sure your partner aligns with your brand identity.
Conclusion
The #FoodInFashion trend presents a fun, fresh opportunity to engage young consumers by celebrating their love of crave-worthy treats. By thoughtfully incorporating food motifs in your apparel designs and choosing production strategies that let you test and adapt with agility, you can satisfy Gen Z’s appetite for ultra-relevant fashion. For even more impact, consider a savvy collaboration with a beloved local restaurant or cafe. Tap into treat culture to sweeten your sales—your customers will eat it up!
