Historically, luxury clothing brands have thrived even during economic downturns. However, recent economic forecasts suggest that some luxury brands will face significant drops in sales in the first quarter of 2024, with profits projected to decline by 20% or more. Nevertheless, this warning isn't universal within the luxury market. Some companies, such as multi-brand retailer Steven Dann, have been experiencing unprecedented growth.

Why? It's a challenging question to answer definitively. However, a portion of the retailer’s success may stem from the uniquely personalized approach Steven Dann takes to luxury sales, starting with curation.

Steven Dann stores resemble art galleries. Dann meticulously selects pieces he believes will resonate best with his customers, who then either visit a Steven Dann store or www.stevendann.com to choose their favorites.

This gallery-style approach to luxury fashion shopping is one that appeals to customers — and for good reason. Mass-market luxury brands are constantly releasing new collections, and for many customers, being inundated with so many options is simply overwhelming.

Dann is also the co-founder and creative director of Monfrère, a menswear line catering to a diverse clientele.

“Clean, attainable luxury,” Dann asserts. “That’s the goal of Monfrère. Prioritizing quality and fit. The main focus is on the fit and why he's wearing it — amidst the plethora of denim brands, there’s a reason he chooses Monfrère.”

Monfrère’s overarching ethos — embracing clean lines, comfortable fits, and elegant simplicity — resonates in parts of the Steven Dann inventory. However, as a retailer, Steven Dann caters to an array of styles and tastes.

“As a curator, I select what resonates with me most from various designers,” Dann explains. He attributes much of his success to his ability to anticipate what customers will immediately gravitate toward.

Steven Dann’s ability to sustain growth in a declining market underscores the broader appeal of his retail strategy, which extends beyond the products themselves. The shopping experience matches the luxury of the items offered, featuring personal appointments and meticulous service that emphasizes individual attention. As the luxury market evolves, Dann's adaptability and commitment to customer relationships will likely maintain the brand’s success, making it relevant and appealing to consumers who value quality and a personalized shopping experience.

From the outside looking in, Steven Dann might seem like any other fashion retailer. But for Dann, and his name-sake retail stores, and his customers, it’s about so much more than just buying clothes.“We dress her from day to night, from the soccer field to the office, all the way down to red carpet galas, ensuring she looks good and feels good, which transcends confidence. And nothing is sexier than confidence,” Dann says. “Customers come in and choose a piece — not always something they think they need, but always something they love and look for a reason to wear.”

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