The Monthly Edit | December 2024
As we wrap up 2024, this December Monthly Edit is packed with valuable insights and resources to help you close the year strong and set the stage for an incredible 2025. From actionable tips to boost engagement to strategies for maintaining momentum into the new year, each resource is designed to support your business growth and success.
Thank you for being an integral part of our dynamic fashion community. Your journey continues to inspire us, and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Author: Elizabeth Formosa | 18 Dec 24
Industry News
The Future of Fashion Week 2025 is Secured!
Exciting news for the Australian fashion industry—Fashion Week 2025 is officially on the calendar! The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) has secured foundational funding from the NSW Government to deliver an industry-led vision for the future of Fashion Week.
Taking place from 12–16 May 2025 at the iconic Carriageworks in Sydney, Fashion Week will be proudly supported by Destination NSW, the government’s tourism and major events agency. This collaboration promises to strengthen Australia’s fashion industry on the global stage.
A special thank you to Minister for the Arts, Music and the Night-Time Economy, and Jobs and Tourism, John Graham, for his leadership in supporting this pivotal initiative.
AFC: Image Credit - Sonny Vandevelde
What to Expect in 2025
Fashion Week 2025 is set to:
Connect Australian Designers with Global Markets: International buyers and media will have a unique opportunity to discover and showcase the best of Australian fashion.
Amplify Industry Voices: Ongoing industry consultation and best-in-class providers will shape an event that’s truly for the industry.
Be Powered by Expertise: Simon P Lock, founder of Australian Fashion Week and CEO of The ORDRE Group, will play a critical role in shaping the event.
This is a major milestone for Australian fashion, creating opportunities to spotlight local collections, strengthen international connections, and amplify the industry’s global presence.
Stay Updated, don’t miss the chance to be part of this transformative event!
BUSINESS OPTIMISATION INSIGHTS
Business Optimisation Insights: Your Blueprint for 2025
As we close out the year, there’s no better time to reflect, reset, and prepare for the opportunities ahead. In the final Fashion Business Mindset podcast episode for 2024, I hosted a special Level Up Session, designed to help fashion entrepreneurs step into 2025 with clarity, confidence, and an actionable plan for success.
Here’s a glimpse of the key insights shared in the episode:
Reflect on 2024: Wins, Challenges, and Lessons
Taking stock of the year is critical for growth. Ask yourself:
What worked well in your business this year?
What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Trends to Watch in 2025
The fashion industry is evolving rapidly. Here are the key trends to prepare for:
Brand Elevation: In a crowded market, brand differentiation is critical. Elevating your brand through premium storytelling, polished visuals, and consistent messaging will capture attention and build trust.
Marketing and eCommerce Optimisation: With digital commerce continuing to dominate, brands must focus on streamlined eCommerce platforms, optimised user experiences, and data-led marketing strategies to stay competitive and drive growth.
Personalised Digital Experiences: Customers expect to feel seen and understood. AI and data-driven insights allow brands to deliver hyper-personalised content, recommendations, and shopping experiences.
Tech Integration: Technology is revolutionising everything—from AI-driven marketing campaigns to virtual try-ons and immersive eCommerce experiences. Brands that embrace innovation will lead the way.
Circular Economy: From rental to resale, preloved is no longer a niche—it’s the future. Brands embracing circular models are seeing increased consumer loyalty and long-term sustainability.
Ethics and Transparency: Consumers are demanding more visibility into where and how products are made. Sharing your sourcing, production practices, and brand values authentically is non-negotiable.
Brick-and-Mortar Resurgence: Physical retail is making a comeback—whether it’s your first store, a curated pop-up, or an immersive brand experience. Customers are craving connection, in-person discovery, and tactile engagement with products.
Build Your 2025 Blueprint
Levelling up isn’t just about doing more—it’s about doing better. Here are five steps to set your business up for success:
Revisit Your Vision: Align your ‘why’ with your goals.
Set SMART Goals: Be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
Optimise Operations: Streamline systems and identify what’s holding you back.
Prioritise Connection: Deepen relationships with your team, customers, and community.
Embrace Change: Stay adaptable and open to new possibilities.
Top Tools and Strategies for 2025
Project Management Tools:
Platforms like Asana or Monday.com to stay organised, streamline workflows, and keep projects on track.
Customer Data Tools:
Invest in CRM systems like Klaviyo to help you understand, connect with, and nurture your audience through powerful, data-driven insights.
Use platforms like Style Arcade for range and merchandise planning, helping you make smarter, data-backed decisions to optimise inventory, maximise profitability, and stay ahead of trends.
AI-Powered Tools for eCommerce:
Shopify Magic and Sidekick: Shopify's AI tools help streamline copywriting, marketing, and product management to optimise your online store.
ChatGPT: From generating content ideas to crafting product descriptions and email campaigns, AI tools like ChatGPT can save time and enhance creativity.
Mindset Practices:
Journaling, vision boards, or daily meditation and affirmations to keep you focused and grounded. I personally love using the Insight Timer app for guided meditations.
A ‘Stop Doing’ List:
Identify tasks or projects that drain your energy or aren’t aligned with your vision. Letting go of the non-essential makes room for what truly matters.
Seek Support:
If you’re looking for guidance, explore consulting, mentorship, or online programs tailored to your business. Expert advice, meaningful connections, and supportive communities can accelerate your progress. Remember, you don’t have to navigate the challenges of business alone—no matter what stage you’re at.
2025 is yours to shape. Reflect on this: “Levelling up isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing better.” Set bold goals, take intentional actions, and watch your business thrive.
Industry Reports: The Business of Fashion 2024
As we look toward 2025, the Business of Fashion 2024 Report, created in collaboration with McKinsey & Company, is an essential read for anyone in the fashion business. Packed with critical insights, this report explores the opportunities and challenges shaping the global fashion landscape, making it a MUST-READ for those who want to stay ahead of the curve.
From the rise of circular business models to the increasing importance of personalisation and technology, the report outlines the trends that will define the industry’s trajectory. It dives deep into evolving consumer behaviour, sustainability imperatives, and the role of innovation in navigating economic uncertainty.
Whether you're a founder, executive, or industry leader, this report equips you with the knowledge to strategise, adapt, and thrive in the year ahead.
Key Highlights from the Report:
Resilience Amidst Uncertainty: Learn how agile strategies are critical to navigating today’s unpredictable market.
Sustainability as a Differentiator: Discover how circular practices, upcycling, and resale are attracting eco-conscious consumers.
The Power of Technology: Understand how AI, personalisation, and immersive digital experiences are revolutionising customer engagement.
Evolving Consumer Priorities: Cost-conscious yet value-driven, today’s consumers demand both affordability and authenticity.
We highly recommend this report for anyone in the fashion business. Whether you’re refining your supply chain, embracing digital transformation, or crafting a more ethical and transparent brand, the insights shared in this report are invaluable for strategising your success in 2025.
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Monthly Edit: AI Spotlight 🚀
Spotlight on AI: Transforming the Fashion Industry
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it’s revolutionising the way fashion businesses operate. This month, we’re shining a light on the role of AI in driving smarter decisions, enhancing customer experiences, and creating more efficient workflows.
In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Michaela Wessels, CEO and Co-Founder of Style Arcade. This cutting-edge platform leverages AI to empower fashion brands with advanced data insights, helping them optimise product ranges, predict trends, and make more informed decisions.
How AI is Reshaping Fashion: Key Insights
Data-Driven Decisions: AI tools like Style Arcade provide real-time analytics, allowing brands to optimise inventory, pricing, and merchandising strategies.
Trend Prediction: Machine learning algorithms can analyse consumer behaviour and market trends, helping brands stay ahead of the curve.
Personalisation: AI-driven platforms enable hyper-personalised shopping experiences, making customers feel understood and valued.
Sustainability: By reducing overproduction and waste, AI supports more sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
Why This Matters for Your Business
AI isn’t just for tech giants; it’s accessible to fashion brands of all sizes. Tools like Style Arcade show how embracing technology can transform everything from product planning to customer engagement.
If you’re ready to take your fashion business to the next level, now is the time to explore how AI can work for you.
Unlocking 44% Growth for Fashion Brands – Insights from Michaela Wessels | Style Arcade
Listen and Learn
Fashion Business Mindset x Style Arcade
Catch our conversation with Michaela Wessels on the latest episode of Fashion Business Mindset. Learn how AI is shaping the future of fashion and how Style Arcade is helping brands level up.
The Lazy CEO Podcast with Jane Lu
Join Jane Lu, Founder & CEO of the global fashion brand Showpo, as she chats with the amazing entrepreneurs behind some of the most iconic brands we all know and love, as well as the trailblazers and subject matter experts in their respective industries.
How Brands Grow By: Byron Sharp
This book provides evidence-based answers to the key questions asked by marketers every day. Tackling issues such as how brands grow, how advertising really works, what price promotions really do and how loyalty programs really affect loyalty How Brands Grow presents decades of research in a style that is written for marketing professionals to grow their brands.
Tap into Our Continued Partnership with WGSN!
We’re thrilled to embark on our sixth year of partnership with WGSN, the #1 global trend forecasting and analytics platform. At Fashion Equipped, we are passionate about empowering startups and growing businesses by providing access to this cutting-edge resource. Combined with our tailored programs, mentoring, and consulting services, these invaluable tools give our clients a competitive edge, helping them not just launch but scale their fashion businesses successfully.
In today's fast-paced and data-driven fashion industry, staying ahead of trends is critical. WGSN delivers global insights and future trends that can transform your business, ensuring you thrive in this ever-evolving landscape.
This is a unique and invaluable opportunity to elevate your business and position yourself as a leading brand in the industry.
Contact Elizabeth directly at elizabeth@fashionequipped.com.au to discover how WGSN can give your business an immediate advantage.
Image: WGSN
