“as a fashion retailer ANF is susceptible to changing fashion trends. It missed out on two key trends during the first quarter of fiscal 2009–skirts and intricately patterned goods–which has contributed to a decrease in sales.” – wikinvest.com

A polka dotted blue skirt–front and center in the window.

Polka dots = extreme print for ANF, where everything is mostly in solid colors

I always wonder what kind of trends stores like Abercrombie would be able to pick up on. Cotton sweatshirts, tshirts, hoodies, tanks and denim seem to be what they stock every season. Ultimately, they are a fashion retailer and make money by giving their shoppers what they want.

“Missing out on trends is especially detrimental for teen retailers like Abercrombie, as its target demographic shops more frequently, adapts trends quicker and is more recession-resistant.” – CNBC.com

The 2010 skirts are very un-Abercrombie. The floral skirt below, for instance…

And a zebra print? ANF girls ride on horselike creatures, not wear them.

This is one ridiculous looking print:

Looks like someone puked a pomegranate cocktail over a yellow skirt.

ANF calling upon inspiration from Forever21? If they’re known for their solids and muted prints (stripes), why would anyone pay 3 x’s the amount for a skirt that could be found at Forever21? They certainly went overboard in offering a variety of patterned skirts.

It seems someone needs help with the ability to capitalize on trends and keep a consistent identity.

UrbanOutfitters.com

The early spring 2009 Urban Outfitters catalog has more emphasis on nudity than ever. Nudity served 2 different ways:

à la Abercrombie…

UrbanOutfitters.com

à la American Apparel…

UrbanOutfitters.com

Sex sells…

Urban Outfitters