Overview
For Autumn/Winter 2025–26, I developed a 12-garment collegiate-inspired collection tailored for DMart’s value-driven customer base. The focus was to balance trend relevance with strong commercial viability while aligning with mass retail pricing expectations.
This project demonstrates my ability to translate global forecasting insights into accessible, scalable fashion solutions.
Trend Research & Forecasting
The design process began with in-depth trend research using WGSN, focusing on AW 25/26 macro and micro trends influencing youth and collegiate fashion globally.
Key research insights included:
- Elevated varsity aesthetics
- Modern prep layering
- Relaxed unisex silhouettes
- Heritage-inspired graphics
- Comfort-led fabrication
The objective was to adapt these premium and mid-market trends into formats suitable for value retail.
Brand & Market Study
To understand silhouette direction and price architecture, I analyzed multiple contemporary and mass-market brands including:
- Zudio
- H&M
- BoohooMAN
- Asos
The study focused on:
- Best-selling sweatshirt fits
- Commercial outerwear proportions
- Fabric optimization
- Graphic placement strategies
- Cost engineering techniques
Since DMart operates within a highly price-sensitive environment, fabric selection, trims, and construction detailing were simplified while retaining trend impact.
Design Strategy
Given the strong sell-through potential of sweatshirts and outerwear during AW, I identified these as key growth categories.
HIT 1 – Sweatshirts
Core volume drivers featuring:
- Relaxed collegiate fits
- Varsity-inspired graphics
- Embroidered and placement print techniques
- Neutral and heritage color palettes
HIT 2 – Outerwear
Statement yet cost-conscious layering pieces including:
- Lightweight bomber jackets
- Panelled varsity styles
- Utility-inspired layering silhouettes
Both HIT categories were designed keeping margin, scalability, and repeat potential in mind.
