Trend Taster: "in-the-know" edition
In this week’s edition of the Trend Taster, we round up the snackable trends, stats and insights from around the world, including:
US shoppers favourite secondhand categories
The rise of "in-the-know" styles
How is social media shaping our holiday habits?
China’s booming pet market
Gen Z reimagines business travel
US shoppers favourite secondhand categories
Secondhand shopping is gaining momentum, with 46% of U.S. adults making a secondhand purchase and 26% selling in the last three months. Clothing leads the resale market, with 67% of shoppers opting for secondhand apparel, though frustrations with the returns process are common. Sellers tend to be more engaged in the secondhand economy than buyers, signalling a growing trend of sustainable consumer habits.
The rise of "in-the-know" styles
A shift in luxury fashion trends is emerging, moving away from quiet luxury towards more recognizable, branded pieces. High-end jewellery from Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Tiffany is seeing significant sales growth, with iconic designs like the Cartier Love bracelet and Tiffany Bone Cuff in high demand. Simultaneously, "in-the-know" styles from brands like The Row and Alaïa are gaining popularity among fashion insiders. Western-inspired looks, classic Americana, and '90s corporate aesthetics are on the rise, while traditional streetwear brands are experiencing a decline. This trend indicates a preference for identifiable luxury and nostalgia-driven fashion over subtle, logoless pieces.
How is social media shaping our holiday habits?
New research from Opodo reveals intriguing trends among British travellers, indicating a more discerning approach to social media's influence on their travel habits. While 37% of global respondents are swayed by social media to explore new destinations, only 14% of Britons feel the same, with British men being more influenced than women. Interestingly, memory preservation drives holiday posts for many, especially Gen Z, but only 34% of UK travellers share for keepsakes, with 30% opting to stay offline during their trips. The findings suggest a nuanced relationship between social media and travel, with many UK travellers choosing authenticity and a desire to "unplug" while on holiday.
China’s booming pet market
In China, pet ownership is evolving into a significant lifestyle trend, with consumers increasingly splurging on premium products for their furry friends. The pet economy reached nearly $83 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $161 billion by 2028, driven largely by younger consumers who view pets as family members. This shift is prompting luxury brands like Gucci and Hermès to enter the market with upscale pet items, while pet-related content flourishes on social media. As health and wellness become priorities, there’s a rising demand for eco-friendly and organic pet products, making it clear that treating pets well is not just practical—it's a status symbol.
Gen Z reimagines business travel
Gen Z is dreaming big when it comes to business travel! A new study by TravelPerk reveals that 62% of Gen Z business travellers prefer air travel. Among them, 29% value built-in seat TV screens and biometric tickets using fingerprint, voice, or facial recognition. Road travel is the second most popular choice, favoured by 59% of Gen Z workers. In cars, advanced technology is important, with 20% desiring mood lighting and 17% seeking biometric access.