According to online resale platform StockX, the fashion industry has seen two major trends emerge in 2021: unconventional footwear and unexpected collaborations. These trends have made a significant impact on the resale market and have generated a growing interest among consumers.
One noteworthy trend in the footwear industry is the rise of unconventional styles that prioritize comfort. Clogs and slides, in particular, have gained popularity throughout the year. StockX reports that trades of Crocs clogs surpassed 35,000, indicating a strong demand for this type of footwear. Yeezy slides also experienced remarkable growth, with a trade increase of 250% compared to the previous year. Yeezy’s Foam RNNR model saw even more astonishing growth, with a staggering 3,400% increase in trades compared to 2020. Another brand that embraced unconventional footwear is Birkenstock, known for its unique designs. Collaborations with streetwear label Stüssy and fashion brand Proenza Schouler contributed to a 300% year-over-year increase in trades of collaborative Birkenstock clogs and sandals on StockX.
In addition to unconventional footwear, unexpected collaborations between contrasting brands have captured consumers’ attention. One notable example is the Gucci x The North Face collaboration, which combined high-end couture with outdoor-inspired designs like camping gear. These collaborative items had an average resale price of $1,400 over the past 12 months. Collaborations between Supreme and iconic New York jeweler Tiffany & Co. also garnered significant interest, with items reaching an average price premium of 140%. Yeezy, known for its limited-edition releases, generated over 17,000 trades on StockX through its collaboration with mass-market retailer Gap. Another noteworthy collaboration was between cozy footwear specialist Ugg and chic brand Telfar, resulting in more than 4,000 trades on the platform this year. Telfar’s bags, in particular, became the “It” bags of 2021, driven by celebrity endorsements. Beyoncé’s appearance with a Telfar bag caused searches for the brand on StockX to spike by 500% the following day.
StockX also highlights several significant fashion moments throughout the year. One such moment was when Kamala Harris’ nephew-in-law, Nikolas Ajagu, wore Dior Jordan 1s to the presidential inauguration in January. This led to a 200% increase in traffic on the StockX product page for the shoes and a 280% increase in searches for “Dior Jordan.” Nike LeBron sneakers also experienced a surge in popularity, with a tripled average monthly trade volume in July. The reissuing of the Nike LeBron South Beach 8 to coincide with the release of the new Space Jam movie, starring LeBron James, contributed to this surge.
Although StockX has expanded beyond sneakers into various fashion categories, its roots remain firmly in sneakerhead culture. The platform recognizes the Nike Air Force 1 as the top traded sneaker of the year, with over 100,000 total trades in the past 12 months. StockX also notes the resurgence of Jordan 2s, thanks to collaborations that have boosted their popularity. Jordan 2 models released before 2020 have seen an average appreciation in value of 90% over the last two years, outpacing the S&P 500’s growth of 40% in the same period. Additionally, the Jordan 4 Retro Golf shoe, available in four different colorways, dominated another trend highlighted by StockX. Alongside the Nike x Drake NOCTA Golf Crewneck Top in green, these items accounted for over 10,000 trades on StockX in 2021.
In summary, 2021 has been a year marked by the popularity of unconventional footwear and unexpected collaborations in the fashion industry. Comfort-focused shoes like clogs and slides have gained significant traction, while collaborations between contrasting brands have captured the interest of consumers. StockX’s trend round-up emphasizes the market’s affinity for non-conventional styles and unique partnerships, as well as notable moments and the ongoing influence of sneaker culture.
Useful Links:
– StockX’s 2021 Trend Round-Up
– StockX Official Website
