Here are some ideas of what to try out from Abercrombie & Fitch.
Remember the shopping mall trips of the late 90’s and 00’s? There was always a point where the smell of cologne hit your nose and you knew exactly where you were. It was the classic Abercrombie scent.
A dimly lit, risque photo greeted you as you prepared to sift through expensive clothing cut for trim and slim folks. The whole experience was punctuated by the kind of cool but unfriendly sales attendants you were convinced you wanted to be.
You either could afford Abercrombie or wished you could. Then, amid scandal, Abercrombie went into hibernation and emerged in the last few years to gain an absolute chokehold over Gen Z and Millenial shoppers.
As of the last couple of years, Abercrombie hooked everyone right back in. If you’re wondering what’s worth buying at Abercombie, this guide will walk you through the best items they have now that make their rebrand a real hit.
What Happened to Abercrombie
The mystique and coolness of Abercrombie & Fitch fell apart in large part due to the former CEO, Mike Jeffries. The company largely fell out of popularity after allegations of misconduct and discrimination came to light.
It became clear that the guiding aesthetic was more exclusionary than cool — idealizing thinness and whiteness. It ran from bottom to top, largely being exposed by Abercrombie employees.
According to CNN Business, by 2014, at the time of Mike Jeffries’ leave, the brand was discussing settlements for multiple race and sex discrimination allegations and harassment lawsuits, leaving it in desperate need of an overhaul.
In recent years, Abercrombie showed up with a clean slate and a fresh approach.
If you’re interested, you can learn more about what exactly happened to Abercombie, and what prompted the massive rebrand, in the Netlfix Documentary White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch.
Abercrombie is Cool Again
Tumultuous history aside, Abercrombie appointed a new CEO and rebranded to shed its not-so-inclusive ways. They retargeted Millenials and Gen Z with 90’s and 00’s-inspired flare and did away with the sexualized marketing.
Their stores are brighter and more inviting and they incorporated larger sizing making it appealing to more shoppers. It’s reclaiming its market share among retailers without the shirtless models and dark storefronts. A&F is doing its best to wash itself clean of the Mike Jeffries era.
They are even partnering with other designers, like Nicole Benefield and Harlems Fashion Row, to refresh the brand image and support their endeavors as well.
What to Buy at Abercrombie?
So, if you’re wondering if anyone still shops at Abercrombie, the answer is a resounding “yes.” In fact, the common conversation surrounding the store now is how great its rebrand is, especially if you’re a millennial who remembers the brand’s past.
This guide covers the best items that Abercrombie offers for men. Over the last few seasons, Abercrombie continues to release staple wardrobe and statement pieces, so this guide calls your attention to both.
Long-Sleeve Premium Heavyweight Tee
A premium heavyweight tee is a wardrobe staple. It’s perfect for layering or wearing on its own. Abercrombie was smart to offer it in several neutral colors so you could stock up and pair it with almost anything.
The structure sets the tee apart. It’s got great shoulder construction but is left looser in the bottom so it’s also flattering on various body types.
YPB neoKNIT MAX Popover
Who doesn’t need a good hoodie? Abercrombie offers this one from YPB (Your Personal Best). YPB is the athletic sub-brand and sports a nice retro sporty flare to most of its items.
It’s a thick hoodie. And as you get older, you come to appreciate higher-quality, thicker hoodies that last longer. These kinds of mono-color hoodies are great for the gym, casual errand runs, and even dressing up on occasion. The added zipper pockets inside the kangaroo pocket are a major bonus.
Loose Workwear Jean
Baggy workwear denim made a major comeback with the return to 80’s and 90’s retro style and Abercrombie took advantage of that. They feature this cut in a variety of colors and prints so you can stock up and fill out your closet.
The double knee design adds some extra detail for that workwear style. If you’re not a fan, Abercrombie still has you covered with the same washes in plain, flat-front designs.
Suiting Trouser
A suiting trouser belongs in every man’s wardrobe. These transition so easily from business casual to casual, and even to date night.
If you’re in need of staple trousers, don’t hesitate to pick these up in several colors and rotate them throughout the week.
Athletic Straight Jean
If baggy denim isn’t your jam, Abercrombie still offers a variety of cuts (even down to skinny). The athletic fit offers a more true-to-size fit with room in the waist and a straight leg.
Abercrombie offers these in a variety of colors, so stocking up is still an option. These will also pair well with a lot of items in your existing wardrobe.
3-Pack Ribbed Tanks
These ribbed tanks get high marks. If you’re someone who lives in tanks or enjoys layering them in the spring and summer, these are worth the money.
These have a nice ribbing to add texture and interest whether they are just peaking out of a button-down or out in the open on their own. They’re also somewhat fitted so you don’t get the extra material that often makes tucking and layering a pain with other tanks.
Striped Button-Through Sweater Polo
Abercrombie really nailed the sweater polo. They offer button-down and quarter-button options with a variety of designs. They’re a perfect smart casual upgrade.
Sweater polos give you that vintage look without having to dig through piles of clothes at a vintage store (if you’re not a pro thrifter). They also pair well with most of the items on this list: think sweater polo, ribbed tank, and a loose workwear jean. They’re key pieces in easy style hacks.
Pattern Cardigan
Who doesn’t love a good cardigan? They’re probably the most complimented items. Abercrombie constantly refreshes their styles that sport a cozy and classic vibe.
If you’re on the hunt for a statement piece that pairs well with a lot of your staple items, consider their patterned cardigan. It’ll stand out and draw great attention with minimal styling effort.
Vegan Sueded Leather Zip Shirt Jacket
A shirt jacket like this is a very grown-up style item. It’s cut with great structure in the shoulders and the large breast pockets will make you look built on top, which is flattering for most masculine dressers.
Both the brown and grey versions of this jacket serve as an understated version of luxury. They’ll look intentional and sophisticated without having to do much styling around them.
Ultra Puffer
Finding a good puffer jacket can be such a tedious task. Either they feel cheap or they don’t actually insulate well. Abercrombie hit the sweet spot.
The great thing about Abercrombie is that they’ve got you covered from head to toe. You could fully outfit yourself from basics to outerwear and be ready to hit the streets.
Premium Heavyweight Tee
If you’re in search of a good tee, you found it. The heavyweight material makes these great pieces on their own.
These are definitely tees that you stock up on in various colors. They’re simple, but the structure and weight give them some personality that pairs well with a multitude of pants/trousers and accessories. These are grown-up tees.
What Would You Buy at Abercrombie?
Hopefully this guide reintroduced you to Abercrombie and gave you a sense of what staple pieces they now carry. They hit a sweet spot for the adult Gen Z and Millenials.
If you have any questions or comments, leave them down below!
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