APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES Apparel and Accessories Trends at Resort Stores

By Sara Karnish

Whether it’s a basic name-dropped T-shirt or the latest in stylish resort wear, apparel is one of the most profitable retail categories for most resort stores. Trends often change from season to season, and resort store retailers keep a close eye on new styles so they can stock their shelves accordingly.

“Tie-dye was huge this year,” said Kris Granahan, retail manager of Waterfront Gift Shop at The Abbey Resort and Spa in Fontana, Wis. “[Especially] T-shirts, sweatshirts, kids’ tees and sweats, but especially looks for women. Our biggest sellers in general were tees, sweatshirts, hoodies, and jackets. Tie-dye was big in tees and cropped hoodies.” Swimsuits were also strong sellers: “People kind of forget we have two pools and a beach right around the corner, so they don’t bring swimsuits.” Looking ahead, Granahan said, “Meetings are coming back little by little. With the meetings, we put more of an emphasis on corporate-looking merchandise. dress is slowly coming back as people return to the office. “

Colder weather was on the minds of guests at Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa in Lake Placid, N.Y. Spa Manager Victoria Dow said their most popular trend was “grey quarter-zip Sherpa Fleece.” For 2022, Dow expects a strong demand for locally sourced, one-of-a-kind items.

Valerie O’Donnell , retail manager/ buyer for the Ocean House in Watch Hill, R.I., manages all of the property’s retail spaces, including The Ocean House Boutique, the Spa, Below Deck, a seasonal outlet, and gift card sales. O’Donnell said, “Last season, swimwear and cover-ups in bright, cheerful patterns were very popular. Also, light weight printed flowing summer dresses were a big hit. People were excited to be out again and enjoying the beach and ocean.” Apparel that is unique to a location and can’t be found anywhere else is always popular. O’Donnell expects items tailored to a location will be a trend in 2022. She said, “People love purchasing items that remind them of their travel and experiences. For example, Ocean House has three new scarves launching soon. These scarves are in production, and we are excited for their arrival in the coming weeks. They are specific to the Ocean House and the detailing is amazing.” The Ocean House, built right after the Civil War, is perched high on the bluffs overlooking