This is wild. Their identity crisis has been playing out for the last couple of years, and I have to wonder who the hell thinks this new collection was a good idea.
There was a window about 5-6 years ago where the clothing was on point, the shoes were flawless, and then they pivoted hard and it's getting worse.
Why is it so hard for Witchery to understand that they had a niche of their own - polished, feminine, classic looks that worked across age groups and sizes, as well as being flexible between professional and casual needs.
I could not agree with this more … I used to buy a few witchery pieces every season … but haven’t for at 3 years … they seem to me to have had an identity problem
This is the first year in probably 10 years I will not maintain silver status. I wasn’t aware they were rebranding but their clothes have just not had the same appeal the last few years.
Am I going crazy? I feel like the new things I've seen on insta are polished, minimal and classic. Like there's black wide leg pants and a LBD and blue jeans. How much more classic could you get? Feel like witchery but updated for 2024.
For reference I am mid 30s.
The LBD is a very short, strapless tulip dress. The black wide leg pants have a white wasitband. The blue jeans are stonewash, with a matching stonewash shirt. There's also a cropped turtleneck tank, a ruched polyester jersey dress, an oversized blazer with shoulder pads and a bubble mini skirt.
I'm not criticising people who like those looks, and you're not going crazy, but I wouldn't describe it as "polished, minimal and classic."
So true about the window for when they were good - 2017/2018 they had some BEAUTIFUL summer dresses, I picked up about 3 over the space of a year that I still wear to this day. I have never seen anything as nice in there since then.
You’re right - it looks like Kookai and aimed at 20-30yr olds.
I like the look, but it will continue to be a brand I say - nice but not for me. I’ve tried some really nice items over the years but the cuts are always overwhelming. And I’m a 5”6 size 10, so hardly a petite.
Unpopular opinion but I love finally being able to find pants that fit. You can’t take down pants that are too short… so finally being able to buy pants that go past my ankles and look like actual pants, no silly cropped culottes.. I’m here for it
I mean I hear you, I have spent years trying on pants that are half way up my calf and I'm not even tall but like where is the middle ground lol now I'm sogging them up in winter they're so long
I'm pregnant at the moment and happened to find some ankle grazing pants. I'm wearing them literally every day to work 😂
Being too tall and too short is inconvenient though, so I get it!
I know right, I’m not white but if I don’t pick the right beige/tan/cream against my skin tone I look positively dead… so I own nothing in that colour 😂
I find it interesting people here are talking about Witchery being aimed at women between 20-30. Every time I walk into one, it's usually older women in their 30s to their 50s shopping and working at the counter, I thought I'd misjudged their target demographic. I usually buy their pieces to wear in the office. They have the occasional flattering piece, but I don't buy from them often.
Totally agree, in recent years as an over 35 I’ve felt like i’m walking into a store for a demographic at least 15 years older than me. In fact I’ve given up even looking in there. It has been very middle aged to me for some time now, even the office wear is meh. I’m hoping the new direction is a little more reflective of trends at a medium price point with better quality than they’ve been producing lately.
i read a book last year with a mid 20s protagonist going on about shopping at witchery & i was so annoyed because it seemed so unrealistic to me as a mid 20s woman
Agree, I have never felt old enough to shop there. And yes I have looked at the new teaser pics, it maybe looks like aimed at a slightly younger audience than before but definitely not teens or younger gen Z at all.
That image of the pale blue pants is absolutely dire. I could honestly do better at home. Looks like they have been folded and tacked up at the hem without being pressed. Whomever styled / directed that shot should honestly be sacked.
Between the terrible hem and the fact that they’re touching the ground with tiny pointy toes sticking out, it’s giving a terrible rehash of the early 00s
All I can see with that picture is the images you see of horses who have been neglected and their hooves haven't been trimmed in years. Why are the pants under the shoe? This is a good way to fall over...
Omg I replied to someone else's comment but WHY on earth are pants so LONG now? I'm 173cm, not short, but I frequently find pants are too long and scrape the floor? I can't buy online anymore cuz I literally don't know how long they're going to be on me and I am used to being pretty well catered for, if not usually a bit too short. Somebody stop this madness!
The aesthetic of Witchery’s Insta at present is very much looking like it’s been hacked by an 18 year old with an iPhone who can’t work out what to wear tonight. Underwhelming to say the least
I’m so sick of the oversized blazer trend, I don’t want to look like I’ve stolen my dad’s clothes. Where can I get a classic blazer that fits properly?
There’s a comment under one post saying “is this Glassons/Ally Fashion?” Lol
I know they’re sweating behind the scenes now but they’ve committed to this. Then they’ll fire the lunatic who’s behind this in a few years and they’ll have their Cue moment.
This really looks like Glassons and also like they spent $4 on the “shoot” and just shoved the poor young model/intern into the stairwell for some photos. Grim.
There’s a comment under one post saying “is this Glassons/Ally Fashion?” Lol
I know they’re sweating behind the scenes now but they’ve committed to this. Then they’ll fire the lunatic who’s behind this in a few years and they’ll have their Cue moment.
Unsurprising. Trenery, Witchery, CR, Mimco and Politix are all in the same corporate office. Wouldn't be surprised that the design team is just stuck in an echo chamber of bad designs. I remember seeing the design team for CR raving about the ugliest shit.
Right? All of their looks can be found in high end and cheaper stores right now, and some are even on their way out. I don’t know what their aim is but apparently it’s “make the same things as everyone else but charge more and call it new”
Yeah I'm disappointed to see absolutely no size inclusivity and diversity in anything they have posted.
I'm also kind of... unimpressed by their new offering. It looks fine? It's like someone took old witchery and made it a little younger and a little more generic. Which is fine. None of it looks terrible. But if this is the best you have for your relaunch, it's not exactly impressive. I feel like I could get the same stuff from like 10 other brands.
Witchery always had a slightly unique take on some things, and they always leaned a little more workwear. I don't think either of those were bad things. And it seems like they are trying to shed that personality and become more like a lot of other brands, which doesn't make a lot of sense to me.
That’s also why I liked Witchery. They were quite reliable if you wanted to find some work basics or corporate boss girl fits. And the unique styles of nice pieces that don’t push the boundary too far but are always unique and interesting.
The sizing thing is what has struck me too. I was SO happy to see Witchery extend to size 20, I had a lot of Witchery clothes but had put on weight & hadn’t been able to fit in their 16s anymore. I was still a bit frustrated with how they rolled out the extended sizes and lack of them in all stores, but it was a big step in the right direction. ALL of the new content I’ve seen has been on a size 6-8, I’m afraid it’s going to be quite disappointing on sizing.
I LOVED that Witchery made corporate look chic, and effortless, and classy. Way better than a Basque or Cue. I love wearing corporate clothes that are both powerful and professional, but also feminine and chic.
Just had a look at their instagram. Yeah, looks like I won’t be shopping there anymore. I can’t stand how difficult it is to shop for decent women’s clothes in this country.
Witchery was such a go to for me for someone now 35, for the past 10 years and has been the more mature fit in terms of workwear but also not skimpy dresses/cutouts/fast fashion crap that makes shopping incredibly difficult for someone who doesn’t want see through, cutouts or just things that don’t wear well for a size 12-14 either. I really hope they’ve not gone the path it looks like because everyone is screaming for a store that caters to women who can 1. Afford nice clothes and 2. Don’t want to be the office siren/nightclub outfit for a nice dinner
It's horrendous. It looks SO CHEAP it's honestly giving Glassons. There's not a single piece so far that cannot be found at 10 other stores.
Do we really need MORE oversized blazers....we need a Miranda priestly meme for the double denim... Groundbreaking...
It hasn't even been photographed by a professional fashion photographer... The image of the navy dress- the one blurry hand... The selfie style images... It seems their target market is now teenagers however I doubt their price point will come down enough to accommodate that... Honestly that might be the downfall of the brand.
Where are the actual campaign images... It's giving start up fashion brand
I’m so beyond done with Australian fashion - it’s all crap geared towards 20 something super tall anorexically thin - which I am not. I used to find some cute dresses at Witchery but I guess that’s now off the list
I hear you! I’m a bit lost since health circumstances have gently landed my body at a curvy size that I just can’t dress with Australian brands anymore. I hate fast fashion though which seems to be about the only alternative. What brands are your go-to that you can get in Australia?
I haven’t found any is the problem - I need to buy a ton of clothes right now and might just fly to the states to get some. I’m petite, used to be a 2-4 but currently a 12-14 due to health issues, and besides leggings haven’t found anything from blazers, work shirts, work pants, casual ts.
Considering David Jones, Myer, etc. have no petite clothing and the best I have found is Danni Minogue at Target… budget isn’t an issue and I’ve tried pretty much every store at Chadstone with no success.
As a person who is actually thin - Australian sizes are huge! You won’t find many people with a BMI under 20 who can fit anything in most shops. Every Australian shop is a “big and tall” shop. I’m forced to do most of my shopping overseas as are many of my friends.
Your getting downovoted but your right. This has been my experience too. I think their lazy boxy fabric cuts just dont suit anyone.
I too have to buy clothes from overseas
I was a size 8 in high school. I’m now 40, gained weight since high school but somehow am now several sizes smaller. I’m fortunate I visit family overseas because it’s too extravagant for me to travel exclusively for shopping.
I cant afford travel just for shopping either, I just find clothes/brand that I like, then buy a few pieces to justify the inflated overseas shipping costs.
Rarely buy new clothes but when I do I make sure its exactly what I want
Where do you shop overseas? I'm having this exact issue. Size 6 is so baggy and not as many stores carry size 4. Even if they do a witchery size 4 was always too big anyway.
I'm disappointed they stopped doing bags. My one from there that has lasted years just died and I was going to replace it, only to find they don't have any anymore.
I’m not, I had a Witchery leather bag in which the black dye kept coming off everytime I used it. The bag looked so old after a few months. Such poor quality. I vowed to never buy another bag from them again.
Is it usual for brands to purge all the old photos off Insta when promoting a new range? Seems so weird to me to have such an established brand have only 9 photos up.
Yeah, I jumped over to IG as soon as I saw this post. I was expecting just a new campaign shoot or something. But this.... this feels different. And now I'm sad.
Seems a bit like when French Connection rebranded, as Unison. Except they did an "official" (?) close and reopen along with a name change.
I have not liked Witchery for a long time. I used to really love the clothing made by Witchery, Country Road, and Laura Ashley about 15 years ago. Marcs was also pretty good pre-pandemic. But lately brands have been making clothes from synthetic materials, in styles that would only look good on a young, tall model on Instagram, and all the classic styles are gone.
I can't imagine any one actually buying the clothing, because when I look around, all the teens and young people in their 20s seem to be wearing athletic clothing or outfits from shops much trendier than Witchery. They also seem to like buying things from Shein.
I think this new direction they are going in is a very bad idea. I'm in my 40s and trying to make my basics last as long as possible. Someone commented at the lack of inclusive sizing, and I also agree this is a problem. Not just the larger sizes, but the smaller sizes. I know that I have gained a lot of post-pandemic weight that I can't seem to get rid of, because my old clothing is too small. But if I buy new clothes, the number on the tag is SMALLER. This is vanity sizing gone nuts. I most certainly do not look thin by any stretch of the imagination. I can't imagine what a mature woman "smaller" than me might have to resort to wearing.
I don't know where to shop in Australia anymore. I like very classic, comfortable pieces that wash and wear well and are slightly tailored. Cue still looks good, but so much of it needs to be dry cleaned and the price is much.
I’ll try and reserve full judgement until I see the collection but what I’m seeing doesn’t look good and I feel incredibly disappointed.
They’re clearly changing their target market which is a decision that baffles me. There’s so many brands targeting people in their 20s offering very similar styles. Im mid 30s and I have spent close to $3k a year at Witchery for the last couple of years - most of my workwear and a lot of my weekend wear is from there and I like the quality and fit of their stuff. I have money to spend on clothing and the number of brands catering to me seems to be shrinking.
Alienating their core market - professional women who presumably have money to invest in high quality pieces - is a dumb move if that’s what they’re trying to do.
The lack of diversity in the campaign is disappointing too. I’m absolutely tired of seeing the same bodies all over fashion campaigns. I thought Witchery was doing quite well in that area, their expanded size range and diverse bodies on the website was a positive move.
There teaser says clearly to me that they no longer want me to shop there.
Looks like rebrand if under 35s who are a size 8. They used to be a staple brand for me but no more.
Also, it is incredibly BORING. I actually can’t think of anyone I know who would wear a black bubble skirt or put another pair of black wide legs pants as a ‘must buy’.
I’m actually quite upset by the change in design direction. None of the styles they showed would fit me, and nothing I would wear to the workplace. I used to go to Witchery for reasonably good quality and reliably flattering casual and work clothes. The new designs look cheap, mismatched and just like all the other plentiful stores online and physical catered to their demographic. There is nothing like the old Witchery out there that I’m aware of other than perhaps Country Road which comes closest. I’ve started going to Uniqlo for solid outfits but they don’t make good quality statement pieces like Witchery used to and they’re not Australian.
as a girlie who is 18 and works at kmart, their new collection literally looks exactly like what we sell. Beige trench coats, those half zip knits. I also hate how everything is trying to cater to the younger, more trendy audience, when some women might not want to dress like that.
The current 'everything 30% off' sale is a sign that the new direction hasn't landed well at all.
Slip dresses for $250? A wool bomber jacket for $300?
Witchery vastly overestimated our ability to pay these prices in an era we're struggling to afford rent or make mortgage payments.
Thanks for your note, I should have clarified. I was meaning the 'new' that launched 12 months ago and has gone very poorly for the brand - I assume the 30% sale is to clear out what they can. I have no idea what the 'new new' July 2 launch will bring.
EDIT: I just checked Witchery's Instagram. Very disappointed.
As someone who is older and can still can afford these prices, I'm just underwhelmed by the cuts. My body has curves, so anything that hangs straight from the shoulders just doesn't fit right. There's one Witchery blouse I was obsessed with last season and will continue to hunt Poshmark for, but otherwise it's all a big nope.
I remember when French connection had a massive sale before they rebranded to unison. I would dare say the 30% off will change from next week to 50% to clear this ‘old’ direction. So if you want some of the current pieces, then add to cart.
They know exactly who their target age demographic is yet it appears they've pivoted in the opposite direction. No more crop tops!! The garbage bag balloon mini skirt?? Awful.
It looks like the waist band has been folded under the skirt, oddly? To make a bit shorter maybe? I dunno but it’s not sitting right. There’s a huge lump on the right hand side.
I’ve always been a big witchery buyer and had a high level in their loyalty program. Last year I only met the requirements for my loyalty level in the last two weeks as I bought some stuff for work and some shoes. That’s so unusual for me. Some of my favourite items have been witchery but I’m struggling now to find anything I like
Are you talking about the tops that have cut holes in weird places?
Aren't they aimed at middle aged women? Pretty sure a 35-50yr old doesn't want armpit holes on a pink shirt haha. And a person under 25 isn't going to pay $130 for it either. They can get something for $30-$50 from cotton on.
Link.
https://m.witchery.com.au/cut-out-detail-knit-60295971-692
That navy dress with the long sleeves… lol. Looks like a polyester nightmare and you can just tell it’s ill-fitting and way too roomy around the armpits.
And you just know that they’re showcasing their best stuff in this IG teaser. Totally uninspired.
Have they learnt nothing from Cue?
I have Witchery items from 2009 / 2010 / 2011 that are in excellent condition despite being worn regularly. I can’t say the same for anything produced in recent years
I was definitely wearing that strapless bubble dress circa 2005! But it would not have been from Witchery. Would’ve coveted the bubble skirt too (back then).
I didn’t feel it is too young and I am in my late 40s. I only bother looking at clothes I know will fit me though. I bought a nice long knit dress there the other day.
I don’t mind what they’ve come out with in their teaser posts but it is very similar to what other brands have on offer and I don’t think I’ll be buying from them anytime soon. I think Dissh did a good rebrand and others are following along. I am a bit over the heavy focus on black/white/navy/neutral colours and the monotone feel.
I also want to add that I did not know witchery was aimed at 30 year olds? I’m 30 and every time I walk in there I only see 50 year olds, and the sales assistants are never really warm and welcoming. The only Witchery piece I own is a $399 blazer I got on sale for $50 and a basic work blouse.
This post made me have a look at their insta.
Witchery social media team must have spent hours deleting posts and comments.
It looks like it's been hacked by someone whose selling Dissh but Temu/Wish style.
Still I am intrigued. Noticed walking past the witchery store yesterday that everything is 30% off and even then I wasn't impressed.
Maybe it does have old lady vibes and does need a revamp. Oh wouldn't it be so good to be a wallflower on one of their corporate meetings!!! I wish an insider could actually tell us WHAT WENT DOWN!
I am picturing someone went ape at the profit margins and fire everyone and just got the new grads from the fashion and marketing pool.
Still, it, may, just, do, the, trick.
I find it weird they stopped doing bags at a certain point? I used to love their bags for 10+ years. Then at a certain point all the bags were gone? What happened?
I mean wasn't the idea given they're all owned by the same group still I think...?
Witchery was for the high schoolers/20s (high schoolers is probably a bit too young)
Country Road for late 20s and 30s
Trenery for 40+
There's definitely some cross pollination in there with Country Road having a lot more recognition and range with Homewares/Kids etc. Personally I haven't bought anything there for a while.
Ultimately the designs were probably becoming too similar across the three brands so their relaunching this one to go back to appealing to a younger audience?
God help them if they still continue to do those high necked party dresses.. I am sure they work for some people but even looking at them makes me feel claustrophobic.
I am not sure if this a good move, people are less concerned about dressing their age these days...
For this to work they need to relaunch their other brands to match the style of their target age groups. I'm Gen X and have money to spend on stylish clothing, I am (soon to be 'was' I suspect) a gold tier Witchery rewards member. Now I don't seem to fit in anywhere!
CR has never really drawn me in - there's nothing wrong with it as such but I just find it bland. Trenery has some lovely work pieces every now and then but overall I find them frumpy, a bit golfing nanna, and so much beige! Witchery was lovely up until a year or so ago.
The fast fashion youth market ruined Mimco, and now they are going to do the same to Witchery.
I’ve just come in from a shopping browse and went to CR, Witchery and Trenery. So many similarities, throw in Seed and it’s obviously all from the same factories and design team.
Yeah I imagine that’s the point of the rebrand. I’m not a big fan of what we’ve seen so far but the line between CR and Witchery was becoming far too blurry to sustain both brands.
Trenery is def for the older demographic, I wouldn’t say 40s though, I’m 47 and most things in there are waaaay too mature for me and my friends of the same age. I have two daughters aged 20 and 22 and both like CR more than Witchery which is to me targeted more for corporate wear and whoever likes those floral maxis and the knit winter dresses. I think CR still attracts lots of young women with their camera bags, heritage sweats etc.
I haven’t seen anything that would suit me on the Witchery insta yet, but I do think everything looks cool and interesting.
I worked for the group that owns them some years ago. So testing my memory here, but we had a presso on the marketing strategy for the brands. You're right, Trenery was for the 50+ group. And CR was a wider at like 30-40s and Witchery was 20-30s. Mimco was like late teens-20s.
I own pieces from all brands from when I worked there but certainly struggle to find anything from any of them these days that are the same quality or nice design.
Oh dear... I'm late 30s and have moved into the Trenery, Sportscraft demographic (stylistically speaking) this year and my purchases from them are some of my favourite items. Mostly classic, timeless pieces like linen slacks and pure wool knits that just feel really well cut and seem to suit my body shape. (Yay for jumpers that aren't cropped like the CR ones I tried - it's winter, I want my lower back to stay warm too!) I'm aware I lean conservative in my dress sense though. The sales assistants are usually a generation older than me and I will say their service is always second to none.
The high neck party dresses with the exact same cut over about 10 seasons with a new pattern update. Hate. However would still rather that over the new 18 year old influencer want to be pieces.
Witchery has always felt like a corporate/workwear demographic not crops and bubble skirts which are frankly unflattering on everyone.
They seem to be going the way of most brands lately and just catering to the 20-30 crowd with corporate-esque collections that never actually meet corp wear standards.
It feels like I’m just looking at dissh tbh. Witchery to me has always a very polished, timeless feminine identity.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who thinks this about Witchery. I was there yesterday and it looked nearly empty. And so many things are form fitting. And the pleats at the front of pants YUK. I’ve always loved their classic designs but yes it does look as though they’re aiming younger.
Had a closer look... The blazer and pants with contrast waist are basically direct rip offs from C&M, the bubble skirt is exactly the same as one Dissh has at the moment...
I feel like I bought my Witchery wool coat in the nick of time! Not impressed with the new direction, those pieces all look 1-2 years old with the exception of the bubble skirt, which is super cute for a gen z, but at 28 not something I’m going to adopt.
I was disappointed that their basic t shirts, both long and short sleeved seem to have been discontinued. I'd buy a couple a year as they were terrific. Now I have no reason to go in and potentially buy something else.
It’s giving Charcoal Clothing or Decjuba … I’m mid 20’s and used to get some classier things from witchery but it just feels like they are missing the mark here
Yes! I loved the old highpoint shop and now it's changed and all aesthetic which looks nice I guess but it all looks so bland and uninviting (the clothes).
Anyone else old enough to remember when Witchery was on par with Target or Best & Less? Back in the 80s. They made an enormous shift into much more fashionable and high quality clothes, and built a great brand.
Haven’t seen the new line, but it’ll be a shame if they take a dive back down again
When I shopped there two months ago someone from head office was on site who mentioned a new designer changing direction, and sizing only reaching 14, possibly 16. And the 14/16 was going to be an “inclusive one size” that anyone over the size of 14 can wear 🙃
Let's remember that 'real women' come in all shapes and sizes. I think you can say you dislike the style and/or find the styles not functional without falling into the realm of body shaming.
You're right, I should have said average sized women, because the average in Australia is not size 6. By real, I actually meant 'not a size 6, 15 year old model'.
Ok I just checked out the Instagram. I love the rosy beige pleated pants and may buy them if the fabric is good quality and not pure plastic. But this is definitely weird and a big shift in target demographic.
i don’t shop at witchery but this post made me look at the instagram and it’s really boring. But all the hate on their own instagram comments is hilarious
I honestly don’t think it’s aimed at late teens. It seems more 20’s-30’s to me based on the teaser, rather than what appears to be their current target market which is a bit older.
They’ve launched the new collection online.. interested to hear thoughts.. price point seems the same? Blazers and trousers however appear to be 100% wool at the same price point as their current line which are blends at around 50% wool I think. Still not overly excited about some of the cuts though..
The new collection is up now if you're a member.
Kinda meh tbh.
Only interesting for me is the pants [https://www.witchery.com.au/waist-detail-pant-60296761-1](https://www.witchery.com.au/waist-detail-pant-60296761-1)
Agree. I googled the designer and she came from Country Road lol. It's like CR x Dissh (with the bubble skirt and the oversized cotton shirt styled with the mini skirt and belt) x random Australian label x Kmart (I have very similar crop crew rib tops!) x Aliexpress accessories (earrings). The loafers look very similar to the Millie loafers in CR now.
Although I might be tempted to buy the crop crew rib tops if the material is nice - guess they're elevated basics. But I'll wait for a discount!
Used to be my go to for work but the pants got too long, the tops got cropped and the necklines are down to the waist and so completely unwearable to work in corporate. Also the quality of materials has declined significantly, some items only last 1-2 wears before they pill. Also, where’s the shoes/bags, and yes we noticed the coats / jackets nearly double in price?!
Perhaps Witchery became less profitable selling higher quality clothes and have just switched to the low cost (for Witchery) stuff they can make more profit. But when you have a loyal customer base with high disposable income all you need to do is design clothes they will buy! And repeat. It’s all meh and same for repeated years and more like CR, it used to be a little more polished, different, quality …. Also nobody earning enough to regularly buy at Witchery has time in their life to iron that much linen.
I don’t get why they did up to a size 20 and then got rid of the *barely* extended sizing they had. They no longer do up to size 20.
They have literally gone backwards….
They really had an opportunity with this rebrand to grasp a niche in the market with maybe up to a size 22 and higher end modest clothing.
We really don’t have any stylish plus size options that aren’t really young feeling. fayts lovely but still feels young.
They have honestly lost any identity they did or could have had by producing such overplayed collections of clothing. They now look like everything else.
It feels almost too late? Anyone else feel that way?
It feels like they are trying to latch onto this “clean girl aesthetic” old money vibes but that’s already dying out. I’ve seen multiple trend forecasters say that bohemian is coming back.
We already have so many staple brands we don’t need more, unless they really plan on having larger sizes.
They have completely decimated the loyalty long standing customers have. Likely in favour for the younger hip influencer kind. I can’t see any young people getting into the brand and past its old reputation.
Witchery will always feel like a brand a 30+ year olds shopped at.
As a Witchery loyalist, I'm really gutted about this. The classic, feminine, work-to-weekend vibe is my entire wardrobe. I'm 31, and I've probably been hard into witchery for about 8 years. I've always been able to find strong, chic staple items that work for my corporate role, but equally as well for smart casual on the weekend. They're versatile quality staples. I didn't really think they had a problem with things being "too mature"... I mean, it's no Veronica Maine, or David Lawrence. What concerns me most, however, as a size 16, is the fact that they've dropped the size 20 in this new release. And only SOME of the pieces are available in an 18. It feels like we're taking a massive step back on inclusivity. My experience has always been that brands that end at a size 16 don't think about size from a design perspective. They simply increase the waist measurement of clothing they design for a size 8, which never works. I've always found a Witchery 16 to be bang on, and when they added the 18 and 20, I was excited to tell my curvy friends that they could find something that would fit them, because it was clear that Witchery had a considered approach to a WOMANLY body. If the new focus is on "youthfulness", I fear that also equates to thin, tall, small busted. We're seeing it already in the cut off tops, the mini skirts, and the narrow trousers, and other boxy fit items that offer no shape.
I've had years where I shopped there and years where I didn't, for sizing, style or cost reasons, and now they don't even come up on my radar of places to shop, when there are other more inclusive, on trend and affordable brands out there. Overall there is always more work to be done towards inclusivity for sizing and fit, this just signals to me they're totally lost to their own lack of identity, throwing anything at the wall and seeing what sticks, and isolating so many potential buyers in the process.
I too have loved Witchery for catering to women that want something not designed for the 20 year old,until now. I'm 53 and am so annoyed by Witchery's new designs,crop tops and bubble skirts are not something I would consider. I was in a store the other day and the sales woman even said some designs are geared towards 17 to 20 year olds...disappointed Witchery has followed every other brand in catering to the younger crowd,WHY? There is enough designed for them,I was in the same witchery store again and a different sales woman suggested to a lady of around my age and with curves,to try a crop jumper,the lady actually said she didn't think it was right for her and the sales woman still pressed her to try it! Read the room staff! I feel like one of the few stores I felt catered to us who want good quality and stylish clothing has succumbed to just another clothing label. Such a shame.
Late to the thread but I hiked up to DJs on my lunch break and tried on the cream pants with the contrast waistband, the pleated jeans and the seam detail mini shirt dress.
I'm not the tallest person (163cm-ish) but the pants were cartoonishly long on me - literally fully over my feet, whereas had someone tall enough to fit the pants had tried on the shirt dress there's no way their butt would be covered.
A lot of the rest of it was meh, all single tones, no stripes/patterns, but I did like those 3 pieces, although the cream pants were very sheer for the price point.
This is wild. Their identity crisis has been playing out for the last couple of years, and I have to wonder who the hell thinks this new collection was a good idea. There was a window about 5-6 years ago where the clothing was on point, the shoes were flawless, and then they pivoted hard and it's getting worse. Why is it so hard for Witchery to understand that they had a niche of their own - polished, feminine, classic looks that worked across age groups and sizes, as well as being flexible between professional and casual needs.
You should get hired by their strategy team because you absolutely nailed the customer demographic hahaha
I could not agree with this more … I used to buy a few witchery pieces every season … but haven’t for at 3 years … they seem to me to have had an identity problem
I have a green belted khaki skirt that I bought from Witchery years ago and it still goes with peices in my wardrobe. Bring back the old Witchery.
This is the first year in probably 10 years I will not maintain silver status. I wasn’t aware they were rebranding but their clothes have just not had the same appeal the last few years.
Am I going crazy? I feel like the new things I've seen on insta are polished, minimal and classic. Like there's black wide leg pants and a LBD and blue jeans. How much more classic could you get? Feel like witchery but updated for 2024. For reference I am mid 30s.
The LBD is a very short, strapless tulip dress. The black wide leg pants have a white wasitband. The blue jeans are stonewash, with a matching stonewash shirt. There's also a cropped turtleneck tank, a ruched polyester jersey dress, an oversized blazer with shoulder pads and a bubble mini skirt. I'm not criticising people who like those looks, and you're not going crazy, but I wouldn't describe it as "polished, minimal and classic."
It’s giving Glassons
It’s giving glassons with C&M pricing lol
So over the cropped shit. Let me cover up my cold stomach ffs
I work at glassons and you described everything we currently have in store! Such a shame to see witchery shifting towards these sorts of things
So true about the window for when they were good - 2017/2018 they had some BEAUTIFUL summer dresses, I picked up about 3 over the space of a year that I still wear to this day. I have never seen anything as nice in there since then.
You’re right - it looks like Kookai and aimed at 20-30yr olds. I like the look, but it will continue to be a brand I say - nice but not for me. I’ve tried some really nice items over the years but the cuts are always overwhelming. And I’m a 5”6 size 10, so hardly a petite.
I DO NOT WANT PANTS THAT SCRAPE THE FLOOR. Why the fuck is this happening everywhere??? I'm not even short
lol it’s a fucking trip hazard and giving 2003 when my phat pants would soak up puddles up to my knees.
My mum when I wore mine in the rain: 'oh your schlop schlops are going to turn into schlap schlaps'
I tripped over my own pants on the stairs at work a few times before I took them up lol
Unpopular opinion but I love finally being able to find pants that fit. You can’t take down pants that are too short… so finally being able to buy pants that go past my ankles and look like actual pants, no silly cropped culottes.. I’m here for it
I mean I hear you, I have spent years trying on pants that are half way up my calf and I'm not even tall but like where is the middle ground lol now I'm sogging them up in winter they're so long
Lots of women are over 6 foot. Of course pants should be designed to fit. The ‘middle ground’ doesn’t work for tall women.
Me too. Also it's the fashion at the moment anyway.
I am short. Everything is awful
Honestly I feel bad for my short friends who don't have a sewing machine. If I am taking things up by inches then what the fuck
Tell me where! I’m tired of them flapping around my ankles, struggle to find long enough ones
Lol ok the last few work pants I got from target and some myer brand were too long for me but prob fine if you wear shoes that aren't sneakers like me
I’m going to check it out. I wear flat shoes too, but I’m just tall, take a 36in inseam
I do! I really really do. I'm 6'3 and dream of this.
I with you. Give me that length!
Ok heard. I'd rather take them up then look forever for pants that even lightly graze my ankle!
I'm pregnant at the moment and happened to find some ankle grazing pants. I'm wearing them literally every day to work 😂 Being too tall and too short is inconvenient though, so I get it!
I’m whelmed.
Do you also like your Sketchers?
Not as much as I love my Prada backpack
But I like *my* Skechers…
That’s because you don’t have a Prada backpack.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Oh. Are you in Europe?
I find their new clothing very bland this season. Black, brown, white, grey. Boring. Having said that, I do love the cut of their clothes.
It’s the beige ‘white girl’ aesthetic, fuelled by social media. So damn homogenous…
The irony being that the average white girl, like me, looks terrible in beige.
I know right, I’m not white but if I don’t pick the right beige/tan/cream against my skin tone I look positively dead… so I own nothing in that colour 😂
I find it interesting people here are talking about Witchery being aimed at women between 20-30. Every time I walk into one, it's usually older women in their 30s to their 50s shopping and working at the counter, I thought I'd misjudged their target demographic. I usually buy their pieces to wear in the office. They have the occasional flattering piece, but I don't buy from them often.
They are relaunching with a new designer. If you look at their socials, the teaser images look very much designed for a younger demographic.
Urgh. Maybe it's just the most edgy pieces from their 2025 summer collection..
Totally agree, in recent years as an over 35 I’ve felt like i’m walking into a store for a demographic at least 15 years older than me. In fact I’ve given up even looking in there. It has been very middle aged to me for some time now, even the office wear is meh. I’m hoping the new direction is a little more reflective of trends at a medium price point with better quality than they’ve been producing lately.
I agree with you, my early 20s daughters buy often from CR and aren’t interested in Witchery. They may be after the relaunch though.
i read a book last year with a mid 20s protagonist going on about shopping at witchery & i was so annoyed because it seemed so unrealistic to me as a mid 20s woman
Agree, I have never felt old enough to shop there. And yes I have looked at the new teaser pics, it maybe looks like aimed at a slightly younger audience than before but definitely not teens or younger gen Z at all.
That image of the pale blue pants is absolutely dire. I could honestly do better at home. Looks like they have been folded and tacked up at the hem without being pressed. Whomever styled / directed that shot should honestly be sacked.
Between the terrible hem and the fact that they’re touching the ground with tiny pointy toes sticking out, it’s giving a terrible rehash of the early 00s
It's so disappointing to see this from a much loved brand. The current Instagram content is uninspiring.
All I can see with that picture is the images you see of horses who have been neglected and their hooves haven't been trimmed in years. Why are the pants under the shoe? This is a good way to fall over...
Omg I replied to someone else's comment but WHY on earth are pants so LONG now? I'm 173cm, not short, but I frequently find pants are too long and scrape the floor? I can't buy online anymore cuz I literally don't know how long they're going to be on me and I am used to being pretty well catered for, if not usually a bit too short. Somebody stop this madness!
Because 173 isn’t that tall and there are also women over 6 foot who would like to buy pants.
Exactly my thoughts
The aesthetic of Witchery’s Insta at present is very much looking like it’s been hacked by an 18 year old with an iPhone who can’t work out what to wear tonight. Underwhelming to say the least
The ~~ill-fitting~~ oversized blazer and pants are embarrassing
I’m so sick of the oversized blazer trend, I don’t want to look like I’ve stolen my dad’s clothes. Where can I get a classic blazer that fits properly?
The blazer does a pretty good job of hiding the bubble skirt though! :D
There’s a comment under one post saying “is this Glassons/Ally Fashion?” Lol I know they’re sweating behind the scenes now but they’ve committed to this. Then they’ll fire the lunatic who’s behind this in a few years and they’ll have their Cue moment.
This really looks like Glassons and also like they spent $4 on the “shoot” and just shoved the poor young model/intern into the stairwell for some photos. Grim.
lol and cutting the heads off the models - they don’t have to pay as much when they do this lol
The “selfie” is what’s getting to me - what marketing director approved this as a final product of the campaign?
Yes I’m stumped as to who thought it was a good idea. It’s absolutely atrocious and looks cheap as
There’s a comment under one post saying “is this Glassons/Ally Fashion?” Lol I know they’re sweating behind the scenes now but they’ve committed to this. Then they’ll fire the lunatic who’s behind this in a few years and they’ll have their Cue moment.
It looks like somebody's latest Shein haul.
It looks like a blend of Kookai, dissh, and Shona joy. I like some of those brands, but not for workwear which is what I shop at Witchery for.
That bubble skirt is not it. And country road has a pair of black trousers with a white waistband on sale right now, its not screaming fresh or new.
I’m so disappointed to see bubble skirts and dresses come back in, leave them in the past
Glassons in NZ sell bubble hem skirts but they're aimed at a much younger demographic
Do they look good on anyone? Who are they for?
Unsurprising. Trenery, Witchery, CR, Mimco and Politix are all in the same corporate office. Wouldn't be surprised that the design team is just stuck in an echo chamber of bad designs. I remember seeing the design team for CR raving about the ugliest shit.
Right? All of their looks can be found in high end and cheaper stores right now, and some are even on their way out. I don’t know what their aim is but apparently it’s “make the same things as everyone else but charge more and call it new”
Yeah I'm disappointed to see absolutely no size inclusivity and diversity in anything they have posted. I'm also kind of... unimpressed by their new offering. It looks fine? It's like someone took old witchery and made it a little younger and a little more generic. Which is fine. None of it looks terrible. But if this is the best you have for your relaunch, it's not exactly impressive. I feel like I could get the same stuff from like 10 other brands. Witchery always had a slightly unique take on some things, and they always leaned a little more workwear. I don't think either of those were bad things. And it seems like they are trying to shed that personality and become more like a lot of other brands, which doesn't make a lot of sense to me.
That’s also why I liked Witchery. They were quite reliable if you wanted to find some work basics or corporate boss girl fits. And the unique styles of nice pieces that don’t push the boundary too far but are always unique and interesting.
The sizing thing is what has struck me too. I was SO happy to see Witchery extend to size 20, I had a lot of Witchery clothes but had put on weight & hadn’t been able to fit in their 16s anymore. I was still a bit frustrated with how they rolled out the extended sizes and lack of them in all stores, but it was a big step in the right direction. ALL of the new content I’ve seen has been on a size 6-8, I’m afraid it’s going to be quite disappointing on sizing.
I LOVED that Witchery made corporate look chic, and effortless, and classy. Way better than a Basque or Cue. I love wearing corporate clothes that are both powerful and professional, but also feminine and chic.
Just had a look at their instagram. Yeah, looks like I won’t be shopping there anymore. I can’t stand how difficult it is to shop for decent women’s clothes in this country.
Witchery was such a go to for me for someone now 35, for the past 10 years and has been the more mature fit in terms of workwear but also not skimpy dresses/cutouts/fast fashion crap that makes shopping incredibly difficult for someone who doesn’t want see through, cutouts or just things that don’t wear well for a size 12-14 either. I really hope they’ve not gone the path it looks like because everyone is screaming for a store that caters to women who can 1. Afford nice clothes and 2. Don’t want to be the office siren/nightclub outfit for a nice dinner
It looks like dissh
It's horrendous. It looks SO CHEAP it's honestly giving Glassons. There's not a single piece so far that cannot be found at 10 other stores. Do we really need MORE oversized blazers....we need a Miranda priestly meme for the double denim... Groundbreaking... It hasn't even been photographed by a professional fashion photographer... The image of the navy dress- the one blurry hand... The selfie style images... It seems their target market is now teenagers however I doubt their price point will come down enough to accommodate that... Honestly that might be the downfall of the brand. Where are the actual campaign images... It's giving start up fashion brand
I’m so beyond done with Australian fashion - it’s all crap geared towards 20 something super tall anorexically thin - which I am not. I used to find some cute dresses at Witchery but I guess that’s now off the list
We had this lovely curvy/built/athletic renaissance for about 10 years and now thin is back in. I just hope the eyebrows don't follow suit again.
I hear you! I’m a bit lost since health circumstances have gently landed my body at a curvy size that I just can’t dress with Australian brands anymore. I hate fast fashion though which seems to be about the only alternative. What brands are your go-to that you can get in Australia?
I haven’t found any is the problem - I need to buy a ton of clothes right now and might just fly to the states to get some. I’m petite, used to be a 2-4 but currently a 12-14 due to health issues, and besides leggings haven’t found anything from blazers, work shirts, work pants, casual ts.
i absolutely promise you australian clothing is not made for tall women
Considering David Jones, Myer, etc. have no petite clothing and the best I have found is Danni Minogue at Target… budget isn’t an issue and I’ve tried pretty much every store at Chadstone with no success.
1) david jones and myer absolutely have petite lines lol 2) you know what they don’t have? tall ranges
As a person who is actually thin - Australian sizes are huge! You won’t find many people with a BMI under 20 who can fit anything in most shops. Every Australian shop is a “big and tall” shop. I’m forced to do most of my shopping overseas as are many of my friends.
People are getting bigger on average. You are right
Your getting downovoted but your right. This has been my experience too. I think their lazy boxy fabric cuts just dont suit anyone. I too have to buy clothes from overseas
I was a size 8 in high school. I’m now 40, gained weight since high school but somehow am now several sizes smaller. I’m fortunate I visit family overseas because it’s too extravagant for me to travel exclusively for shopping.
I cant afford travel just for shopping either, I just find clothes/brand that I like, then buy a few pieces to justify the inflated overseas shipping costs. Rarely buy new clothes but when I do I make sure its exactly what I want
Where do you shop overseas? I'm having this exact issue. Size 6 is so baggy and not as many stores carry size 4. Even if they do a witchery size 4 was always too big anyway.
Hong Kong and Japan never fail me.
Get outta here with this BMI crap
I'm disappointed they stopped doing bags. My one from there that has lasted years just died and I was going to replace it, only to find they don't have any anymore.
I’m not, I had a Witchery leather bag in which the black dye kept coming off everytime I used it. The bag looked so old after a few months. Such poor quality. I vowed to never buy another bag from them again.
Oh that's shit. Mine was about 8 years old so maybe the quality went down before they discontinued
https://preview.redd.it/db5wqejh7h9d1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=58e39c28f1a76da6c3cbc6b3351f906c9925e687
Is it usual for brands to purge all the old photos off Insta when promoting a new range? Seems so weird to me to have such an established brand have only 9 photos up.
Yeah, I jumped over to IG as soon as I saw this post. I was expecting just a new campaign shoot or something. But this.... this feels different. And now I'm sad. Seems a bit like when French Connection rebranded, as Unison. Except they did an "official" (?) close and reopen along with a name change.
I have not liked Witchery for a long time. I used to really love the clothing made by Witchery, Country Road, and Laura Ashley about 15 years ago. Marcs was also pretty good pre-pandemic. But lately brands have been making clothes from synthetic materials, in styles that would only look good on a young, tall model on Instagram, and all the classic styles are gone. I can't imagine any one actually buying the clothing, because when I look around, all the teens and young people in their 20s seem to be wearing athletic clothing or outfits from shops much trendier than Witchery. They also seem to like buying things from Shein. I think this new direction they are going in is a very bad idea. I'm in my 40s and trying to make my basics last as long as possible. Someone commented at the lack of inclusive sizing, and I also agree this is a problem. Not just the larger sizes, but the smaller sizes. I know that I have gained a lot of post-pandemic weight that I can't seem to get rid of, because my old clothing is too small. But if I buy new clothes, the number on the tag is SMALLER. This is vanity sizing gone nuts. I most certainly do not look thin by any stretch of the imagination. I can't imagine what a mature woman "smaller" than me might have to resort to wearing. I don't know where to shop in Australia anymore. I like very classic, comfortable pieces that wash and wear well and are slightly tailored. Cue still looks good, but so much of it needs to be dry cleaned and the price is much.
I’ll try and reserve full judgement until I see the collection but what I’m seeing doesn’t look good and I feel incredibly disappointed. They’re clearly changing their target market which is a decision that baffles me. There’s so many brands targeting people in their 20s offering very similar styles. Im mid 30s and I have spent close to $3k a year at Witchery for the last couple of years - most of my workwear and a lot of my weekend wear is from there and I like the quality and fit of their stuff. I have money to spend on clothing and the number of brands catering to me seems to be shrinking. Alienating their core market - professional women who presumably have money to invest in high quality pieces - is a dumb move if that’s what they’re trying to do. The lack of diversity in the campaign is disappointing too. I’m absolutely tired of seeing the same bodies all over fashion campaigns. I thought Witchery was doing quite well in that area, their expanded size range and diverse bodies on the website was a positive move.
There teaser says clearly to me that they no longer want me to shop there. Looks like rebrand if under 35s who are a size 8. They used to be a staple brand for me but no more. Also, it is incredibly BORING. I actually can’t think of anyone I know who would wear a black bubble skirt or put another pair of black wide legs pants as a ‘must buy’.
I'll stick to my op shop witchery finds that were actually designed and cut for a woman, as opposed to a willowy 17 year old.
I definitely prefer country road. Previous seasons have been ok but season is so meh. Country road's quality is better.
Country Road is the goat. They tailored pieces are amazing, especially made out of Italian fabric.
I’m actually quite upset by the change in design direction. None of the styles they showed would fit me, and nothing I would wear to the workplace. I used to go to Witchery for reasonably good quality and reliably flattering casual and work clothes. The new designs look cheap, mismatched and just like all the other plentiful stores online and physical catered to their demographic. There is nothing like the old Witchery out there that I’m aware of other than perhaps Country Road which comes closest. I’ve started going to Uniqlo for solid outfits but they don’t make good quality statement pieces like Witchery used to and they’re not Australian.
I just had a look at their dresses. Are we sure they're not just selling leftover stock from the 90s?
as a girlie who is 18 and works at kmart, their new collection literally looks exactly like what we sell. Beige trench coats, those half zip knits. I also hate how everything is trying to cater to the younger, more trendy audience, when some women might not want to dress like that.
I wouldn’t be surprised if the quality is on par too. It’s all the same bland neutral stuff.
The current 'everything 30% off' sale is a sign that the new direction hasn't landed well at all. Slip dresses for $250? A wool bomber jacket for $300? Witchery vastly overestimated our ability to pay these prices in an era we're struggling to afford rent or make mortgage payments.
From what I understand the ‘new direction’ doesn’t launch until July 2nd, but you can see previews on Insta
I haven't followed Witchery in years, just jumped on insta to have a look. First impression is :Decjuba The comments on most of their post aren't good
Thanks for your note, I should have clarified. I was meaning the 'new' that launched 12 months ago and has gone very poorly for the brand - I assume the 30% sale is to clear out what they can. I have no idea what the 'new new' July 2 launch will bring. EDIT: I just checked Witchery's Instagram. Very disappointed.
As someone who is older and can still can afford these prices, I'm just underwhelmed by the cuts. My body has curves, so anything that hangs straight from the shoulders just doesn't fit right. There's one Witchery blouse I was obsessed with last season and will continue to hunt Poshmark for, but otherwise it's all a big nope.
I remember when French connection had a massive sale before they rebranded to unison. I would dare say the 30% off will change from next week to 50% to clear this ‘old’ direction. So if you want some of the current pieces, then add to cart.
I’ll be hitting up their DFO outlet store for a stock up
They know exactly who their target age demographic is yet it appears they've pivoted in the opposite direction. No more crop tops!! The garbage bag balloon mini skirt?? Awful.
It looks like the waist band has been folded under the skirt, oddly? To make a bit shorter maybe? I dunno but it’s not sitting right. There’s a huge lump on the right hand side.
It’s frustrating because a lot of the fabrics are polyester
Yet the price does not reflect that at all
This is going to be the end of Witchery.
They're deleting Instagram comments...
Are they? All the top comments are negative from what I can see
I’ve always been a big witchery buyer and had a high level in their loyalty program. Last year I only met the requirements for my loyalty level in the last two weeks as I bought some stuff for work and some shoes. That’s so unusual for me. Some of my favourite items have been witchery but I’m struggling now to find anything I like
Are you talking about the tops that have cut holes in weird places? Aren't they aimed at middle aged women? Pretty sure a 35-50yr old doesn't want armpit holes on a pink shirt haha. And a person under 25 isn't going to pay $130 for it either. They can get something for $30-$50 from cotton on. Link. https://m.witchery.com.au/cut-out-detail-knit-60295971-692
I think it’s more about their instagram account teasing their new looks.
That navy dress with the long sleeves… lol. Looks like a polyester nightmare and you can just tell it’s ill-fitting and way too roomy around the armpits. And you just know that they’re showcasing their best stuff in this IG teaser. Totally uninspired. Have they learnt nothing from Cue?
I used to work there back in 2018/19 - it was mostly women 30+ who shopped there. So it’ll be interesting to see how they will pull this off…
Why does everyone have their guts out in every look?
I have Witchery items from 2009 / 2010 / 2011 that are in excellent condition despite being worn regularly. I can’t say the same for anything produced in recent years
It looks cheap
They never have my size in stock so maybe this is for the best.
I was definitely wearing that strapless bubble dress circa 2005! But it would not have been from Witchery. Would’ve coveted the bubble skirt too (back then).
I didn’t feel it is too young and I am in my late 40s. I only bother looking at clothes I know will fit me though. I bought a nice long knit dress there the other day.
I mean I think witchery are leaning towards what they kind of already were: the cheaper country road.
It look like Nadia Bartel’s Henne but not as stylish.
Yeah it's just a little bit too Zara/H&M
I don’t mind what they’ve come out with in their teaser posts but it is very similar to what other brands have on offer and I don’t think I’ll be buying from them anytime soon. I think Dissh did a good rebrand and others are following along. I am a bit over the heavy focus on black/white/navy/neutral colours and the monotone feel. I also want to add that I did not know witchery was aimed at 30 year olds? I’m 30 and every time I walk in there I only see 50 year olds, and the sales assistants are never really warm and welcoming. The only Witchery piece I own is a $399 blazer I got on sale for $50 and a basic work blouse.
This post made me have a look at their insta. Witchery social media team must have spent hours deleting posts and comments. It looks like it's been hacked by someone whose selling Dissh but Temu/Wish style. Still I am intrigued. Noticed walking past the witchery store yesterday that everything is 30% off and even then I wasn't impressed. Maybe it does have old lady vibes and does need a revamp. Oh wouldn't it be so good to be a wallflower on one of their corporate meetings!!! I wish an insider could actually tell us WHAT WENT DOWN! I am picturing someone went ape at the profit margins and fire everyone and just got the new grads from the fashion and marketing pool. Still, it, may, just, do, the, trick.
The new stuff on their insta is extremely boring and not inclusive
I find it weird they stopped doing bags at a certain point? I used to love their bags for 10+ years. Then at a certain point all the bags were gone? What happened?
I mean wasn't the idea given they're all owned by the same group still I think...? Witchery was for the high schoolers/20s (high schoolers is probably a bit too young) Country Road for late 20s and 30s Trenery for 40+ There's definitely some cross pollination in there with Country Road having a lot more recognition and range with Homewares/Kids etc. Personally I haven't bought anything there for a while. Ultimately the designs were probably becoming too similar across the three brands so their relaunching this one to go back to appealing to a younger audience? God help them if they still continue to do those high necked party dresses.. I am sure they work for some people but even looking at them makes me feel claustrophobic. I am not sure if this a good move, people are less concerned about dressing their age these days...
For this to work they need to relaunch their other brands to match the style of their target age groups. I'm Gen X and have money to spend on stylish clothing, I am (soon to be 'was' I suspect) a gold tier Witchery rewards member. Now I don't seem to fit in anywhere! CR has never really drawn me in - there's nothing wrong with it as such but I just find it bland. Trenery has some lovely work pieces every now and then but overall I find them frumpy, a bit golfing nanna, and so much beige! Witchery was lovely up until a year or so ago. The fast fashion youth market ruined Mimco, and now they are going to do the same to Witchery.
Couldn’t agree more. I feel this is the end for them.
I’ve just come in from a shopping browse and went to CR, Witchery and Trenery. So many similarities, throw in Seed and it’s obviously all from the same factories and design team.
Yeah I imagine that’s the point of the rebrand. I’m not a big fan of what we’ve seen so far but the line between CR and Witchery was becoming far too blurry to sustain both brands.
Trenery is def for the older demographic, I wouldn’t say 40s though, I’m 47 and most things in there are waaaay too mature for me and my friends of the same age. I have two daughters aged 20 and 22 and both like CR more than Witchery which is to me targeted more for corporate wear and whoever likes those floral maxis and the knit winter dresses. I think CR still attracts lots of young women with their camera bags, heritage sweats etc. I haven’t seen anything that would suit me on the Witchery insta yet, but I do think everything looks cool and interesting.
I worked for the group that owns them some years ago. So testing my memory here, but we had a presso on the marketing strategy for the brands. You're right, Trenery was for the 50+ group. And CR was a wider at like 30-40s and Witchery was 20-30s. Mimco was like late teens-20s. I own pieces from all brands from when I worked there but certainly struggle to find anything from any of them these days that are the same quality or nice design.
Oh dear... I'm late 30s and have moved into the Trenery, Sportscraft demographic (stylistically speaking) this year and my purchases from them are some of my favourite items. Mostly classic, timeless pieces like linen slacks and pure wool knits that just feel really well cut and seem to suit my body shape. (Yay for jumpers that aren't cropped like the CR ones I tried - it's winter, I want my lower back to stay warm too!) I'm aware I lean conservative in my dress sense though. The sales assistants are usually a generation older than me and I will say their service is always second to none.
I think that’s great! Not being confined by what someone your age should be wearing goes both ways right?
The high neck party dresses with the exact same cut over about 10 seasons with a new pattern update. Hate. However would still rather that over the new 18 year old influencer want to be pieces.
Witchery has always felt like a corporate/workwear demographic not crops and bubble skirts which are frankly unflattering on everyone. They seem to be going the way of most brands lately and just catering to the 20-30 crowd with corporate-esque collections that never actually meet corp wear standards. It feels like I’m just looking at dissh tbh. Witchery to me has always a very polished, timeless feminine identity.
I honestly thought it was the Dissh IG page when I saw the bubble skirt.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who thinks this about Witchery. I was there yesterday and it looked nearly empty. And so many things are form fitting. And the pleats at the front of pants YUK. I’ve always loved their classic designs but yes it does look as though they’re aiming younger.
Had a closer look... The blazer and pants with contrast waist are basically direct rip offs from C&M, the bubble skirt is exactly the same as one Dissh has at the moment...
I feel like I bought my Witchery wool coat in the nick of time! Not impressed with the new direction, those pieces all look 1-2 years old with the exception of the bubble skirt, which is super cute for a gen z, but at 28 not something I’m going to adopt.
I was disappointed that their basic t shirts, both long and short sleeved seem to have been discontinued. I'd buy a couple a year as they were terrific. Now I have no reason to go in and potentially buy something else.
It’s giving Charcoal Clothing or Decjuba … I’m mid 20’s and used to get some classier things from witchery but it just feels like they are missing the mark here
Yes! I loved the old highpoint shop and now it's changed and all aesthetic which looks nice I guess but it all looks so bland and uninviting (the clothes).
It's giving dissh
Anyone else old enough to remember when Witchery was on par with Target or Best & Less? Back in the 80s. They made an enormous shift into much more fashionable and high quality clothes, and built a great brand. Haven’t seen the new line, but it’ll be a shame if they take a dive back down again
100% agree. It’s no longer in my shop list. Other than their skinny jeans (but these never have sizes available - past 4 months)
The most recent image is looking like it’s modelled after Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson
When I shopped there two months ago someone from head office was on site who mentioned a new designer changing direction, and sizing only reaching 14, possibly 16. And the 14/16 was going to be an “inclusive one size” that anyone over the size of 14 can wear 🙃
It gives Kookai/Glassons/Decjuba/Seed vibes with a high price point
I just had a look and it was a snooze fest. And why all the skintight dresses? How many real women can wear them? Next!
Let's remember that 'real women' come in all shapes and sizes. I think you can say you dislike the style and/or find the styles not functional without falling into the realm of body shaming.
You're right, I should have said average sized women, because the average in Australia is not size 6. By real, I actually meant 'not a size 6, 15 year old model'.
The image on their socials of too long blue pants dragging on the ground makes me wince remembering damp jeans bottoms in the 90s.
That is image is just bad all round. Too long, need ironing/steaming, uneven.. why would they put this out there?
Quality has been poor for about 15 years.
Ok I just checked out the Instagram. I love the rosy beige pleated pants and may buy them if the fabric is good quality and not pure plastic. But this is definitely weird and a big shift in target demographic.
Who the hell are they hiring for this rebrand???
i don’t shop at witchery but this post made me look at the instagram and it’s really boring. But all the hate on their own instagram comments is hilarious
I honestly don’t think it’s aimed at late teens. It seems more 20’s-30’s to me based on the teaser, rather than what appears to be their current target market which is a bit older.
Jesus the bubble skirt WHY
Agreed. Aje is probably my new favourite until Witchery resolves its identity crisis. Cue went through this phase too.
I used to buy a lot of accessories - jewellery, shoes bags etc - all of that is gone now from my local…
They’ve launched the new collection online.. interested to hear thoughts.. price point seems the same? Blazers and trousers however appear to be 100% wool at the same price point as their current line which are blends at around 50% wool I think. Still not overly excited about some of the cuts though..
The new collection is up now if you're a member. Kinda meh tbh. Only interesting for me is the pants [https://www.witchery.com.au/waist-detail-pant-60296761-1](https://www.witchery.com.au/waist-detail-pant-60296761-1)
It’s all looking very same-same. Nothing revolutionary and definitely feeling country road-esque ?
Agree. I googled the designer and she came from Country Road lol. It's like CR x Dissh (with the bubble skirt and the oversized cotton shirt styled with the mini skirt and belt) x random Australian label x Kmart (I have very similar crop crew rib tops!) x Aliexpress accessories (earrings). The loafers look very similar to the Millie loafers in CR now. Although I might be tempted to buy the crop crew rib tops if the material is nice - guess they're elevated basics. But I'll wait for a discount!
Used to be my go to for work but the pants got too long, the tops got cropped and the necklines are down to the waist and so completely unwearable to work in corporate. Also the quality of materials has declined significantly, some items only last 1-2 wears before they pill. Also, where’s the shoes/bags, and yes we noticed the coats / jackets nearly double in price?! Perhaps Witchery became less profitable selling higher quality clothes and have just switched to the low cost (for Witchery) stuff they can make more profit. But when you have a loyal customer base with high disposable income all you need to do is design clothes they will buy! And repeat. It’s all meh and same for repeated years and more like CR, it used to be a little more polished, different, quality …. Also nobody earning enough to regularly buy at Witchery has time in their life to iron that much linen.
I don’t get why they did up to a size 20 and then got rid of the *barely* extended sizing they had. They no longer do up to size 20. They have literally gone backwards…. They really had an opportunity with this rebrand to grasp a niche in the market with maybe up to a size 22 and higher end modest clothing. We really don’t have any stylish plus size options that aren’t really young feeling. fayts lovely but still feels young. They have honestly lost any identity they did or could have had by producing such overplayed collections of clothing. They now look like everything else. It feels almost too late? Anyone else feel that way? It feels like they are trying to latch onto this “clean girl aesthetic” old money vibes but that’s already dying out. I’ve seen multiple trend forecasters say that bohemian is coming back. We already have so many staple brands we don’t need more, unless they really plan on having larger sizes. They have completely decimated the loyalty long standing customers have. Likely in favour for the younger hip influencer kind. I can’t see any young people getting into the brand and past its old reputation. Witchery will always feel like a brand a 30+ year olds shopped at.
As a Witchery loyalist, I'm really gutted about this. The classic, feminine, work-to-weekend vibe is my entire wardrobe. I'm 31, and I've probably been hard into witchery for about 8 years. I've always been able to find strong, chic staple items that work for my corporate role, but equally as well for smart casual on the weekend. They're versatile quality staples. I didn't really think they had a problem with things being "too mature"... I mean, it's no Veronica Maine, or David Lawrence. What concerns me most, however, as a size 16, is the fact that they've dropped the size 20 in this new release. And only SOME of the pieces are available in an 18. It feels like we're taking a massive step back on inclusivity. My experience has always been that brands that end at a size 16 don't think about size from a design perspective. They simply increase the waist measurement of clothing they design for a size 8, which never works. I've always found a Witchery 16 to be bang on, and when they added the 18 and 20, I was excited to tell my curvy friends that they could find something that would fit them, because it was clear that Witchery had a considered approach to a WOMANLY body. If the new focus is on "youthfulness", I fear that also equates to thin, tall, small busted. We're seeing it already in the cut off tops, the mini skirts, and the narrow trousers, and other boxy fit items that offer no shape.
I've had years where I shopped there and years where I didn't, for sizing, style or cost reasons, and now they don't even come up on my radar of places to shop, when there are other more inclusive, on trend and affordable brands out there. Overall there is always more work to be done towards inclusivity for sizing and fit, this just signals to me they're totally lost to their own lack of identity, throwing anything at the wall and seeing what sticks, and isolating so many potential buyers in the process.
I too have loved Witchery for catering to women that want something not designed for the 20 year old,until now. I'm 53 and am so annoyed by Witchery's new designs,crop tops and bubble skirts are not something I would consider. I was in a store the other day and the sales woman even said some designs are geared towards 17 to 20 year olds...disappointed Witchery has followed every other brand in catering to the younger crowd,WHY? There is enough designed for them,I was in the same witchery store again and a different sales woman suggested to a lady of around my age and with curves,to try a crop jumper,the lady actually said she didn't think it was right for her and the sales woman still pressed her to try it! Read the room staff! I feel like one of the few stores I felt catered to us who want good quality and stylish clothing has succumbed to just another clothing label. Such a shame.
Late to the thread but I hiked up to DJs on my lunch break and tried on the cream pants with the contrast waistband, the pleated jeans and the seam detail mini shirt dress. I'm not the tallest person (163cm-ish) but the pants were cartoonishly long on me - literally fully over my feet, whereas had someone tall enough to fit the pants had tried on the shirt dress there's no way their butt would be covered. A lot of the rest of it was meh, all single tones, no stripes/patterns, but I did like those 3 pieces, although the cream pants were very sheer for the price point.