Arts·Commotion

How Abercrombie & Fitch won over consumers once again

The Cut's fashion features writer Chantal Fernandez talks about how the retailer pulled off a rebrand and became more successful than ever.

Fashion writer Chantal Fernandez explains how the retailer pulled off their unexpected makeover

A woman moves a dark wood and glass door for a mall storefront for the brand Abercrombie & Fitch.
A mall storefront for the clothing retailer Abercrombie & Fitch. (AP)

If you were a teen in the 90's and 2000's, you'll recall that one store ruled the mall: Abercrombie & Fitch.

The clothing retailer was famous for selling an idealized, preppy vision of youth, but it fell out of fashion after a number of controversies and lawsuits where the company was accused of racism and discrimination.

However, with its current rebrand, the store has become more successful than ever. Today on Commotion, The Cut's fashion features writer Chantal Fernandez explains to guest host Rad Simonpillai how the retailer pulled off this makeover.

WATCH | Today's episode on YouTubev (this segment begins at 16:15): 

You can listen to the full discussion from today's show on CBC Listen or on our podcast, Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud, available wherever you get your podcasts.


Interview with Chantal Fernandez produced by Jean Kim.