Get ready to sparkle this festive season with the latest trends, strategies, and tips for success!

Hey!!

How’s the preparation for the festive season shopping rush? Whether you’re on top of your game or just gearing up, now’s the time to tap into all that upcoming energy and make some magic happen. And guess what? We’ve got some seriously bright ideas to help your brand shine this festival — here are some killer trends, products and marketing strategies that’ll light up your sales like never before!

In this article, we're focusing on

1 - Paradigm Shift - Breaking News that’s worth a headline!

1 - Stitch in time - a valuable fashion business tip

Let's get into it!

Paradigm Shift - Diwali Shopping Season is now on WSGN’s Calendar!

Diwali isn’t just a festival anymore—it’s become a global shopping phenomenon! In 2023, major UK cities like London lit up with Diwali street festivals, and landmarks such as The Empire State Building in New York joined the celebrations with a Diwali-themed light show. Retailers like Selfridges and Tesco rolled out dedicated Diwali collections, while beauty brands like MAC Cosmetics launched limited-edition festive products. Over in India, the impact was even more massive, with a 49% surge in online sales and a 22% boost in conversion rates during Diwali 2023.

With the festive spirit and spending power back in full swing, Diwali 2024 is shaping up to be a major opportunity for fashion brands worldwide, as the Indian-origin customer becomes a global force on the shopping scene. The impact is so significant that for the first time, WSGN has released a strategy guide?for brands to target this exciting new segment of customers with strategies to make the most of the season. Not surprising, given the number of brands that have already made their presence felt in the retail fashion scene in the country. Be sure to check out the report copy from WSGN here.?

Based on the report, here’s a quick summary of what strategies you can adopt for this festive season -

1.Brand Trends

Focus on festive colors and embellishments that reflect the Diwali vibe—think golds, reds, and intricate embroidery. Traditional meets modern is a winning trend, so merge ethnic styles with contemporary silhouettes for a fresh take on Diwali fashion.

2.Product Curation

Create Diwali-specific capsule collections. Think luxe fabrics, statement pieces for festive parties, and elegant, affordable gift articles. Personalized pieces, such as monogrammed scarves or customized jewelry, can attract both premium buyers and seasonal gift-givers. Offering sustainable fashion is another trend to tap into as eco-consciousness grows.

3.;Marketing Strategies

• Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with local influencers and celebs who align with your brand and give their followers a sneak peek of your Diwali collection. These partnerships can help you reach a 60% wider audience.
• Social Media Campaigns: Kick off teaser campaigns on Instagram and TikTok, showcasing "behind the scenes" content, countdowns, and festival lookbooks. User-generated content, like customers flaunting your pieces, increases authenticity and engagement.
• Festive Discounts: Run flash sales or exclusive Diwali discount codes. A 45% increase in last-minute shopping during Diwali makes these discounts crucial.

4.Sales Strategies

• Omnichannel Approach: Ensure your online and offline channels are synced. 49% of Diwali shoppers prefer shopping online, but in-store experiences are still key for traditional markets.
• Gift Packs & Bundles: Curate special festive bundles or Diwali gift boxes with fashion essentials. Bundling products increases the value of each sale and attracts gift buyers.
• Payment Flexibility: Offer buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) or zero-interest EMI options to capture more shoppers, as financing options boost conversions by up to 22%.

With Diwali expected to account for up to 40% of annual retail sales for many brands, implementing these strategies will help you maximize the festive opportunity and capture the hearts (and wallets) of your audience!

A Stitch in Time - A Golden Fashion Business Tip

As you prep for the festive season, remember that a strong online presence is everything! A viral reel could be all the marketing your brand needs to gain the spotlight. Leverage social media to showcase your unique story and connect with your audience. Engaging content formats like reels, stories, and polls can boost visibility while collaborating with the right influencers will amplify your reach and create authentic connections this shopping season!

P.S - All of this adds up to some really amazing valuable insights for your fashion business! Know anyone else who would benefit from our content? There’s some great value for both designers and brand owners, so if you like our Article, please share this link to a colleague or a friend that you think can benefit from it. Sharing is caring, after all!