Gift-giving is influenced by pop culture and fast fashion
Implications - Rather than sticking to timeless gifts, modern consumers are opting for pop cultural sentiments adapted for holiday appeal. This shift indicates that consumers aren't looking for items to hold onto, but instead, items that help them advertise that they are in-the-know when it comes to web culture. Gifts of these nature indicate the importance of collective cultural moments, and influence the rate of product development.
Workshop Question - What can you do to create a community around your brand?
Trend Themes
1. Pop Culture Sentiments - Consumers are increasingly opting for gift items that are influenced by pop cultural sentiments and collective cultural moments.
2. Celebrity and Music-inspired Apparel - Pop culture references on apparel such as Christmas sweaters and lyric-inspired pendants is increasing as consumers look for ways to display their fandom.
3. Music and Pop Culture-inspired Merchandise - Pop culture merchandise inspired by music, memes, and cultural moments has become increasingly popular as consumers seek to show their engagement with popular culture.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Apparel - There is a growing trend towards apparel carrying pop culture references, inspired by music, movies, and TV shows.
2. Merchandise and Fan Culture - Consumer demand for pop culture and music merchandise is evident in products such as lyric-inspired jewelry and celebrity Christmas sweaters.
3. Gifts and Collectibles - There is an increased demand for products that are based on pop cultural references and inspired by viral moments, memes, and catchphrases.
