For the 2026 Macy’s Design Challenge, students were asked to identify the grey area within Charter Club’s current assortment and design products that could naturally expand the brand. Going into the project, I knew I wanted to focus on pieces that felt easy to live in. I’ve always been drawn to familiar silhouettes and subtle details, so I approached the challenge by designing garments that felt intentional, wearable, and naturally connected to the way people already dress.
As someone studying Fashion Merchandising, this project made me think differently about design. Instead of only focusing on creating something visually interesting, I had to consider how each piece would function within the larger assortment. I spent time researching Charter Club’s cashmere offering and thinking about where there was room to expand the category while still staying true to the brand’s identity.
I designed a 100% cashmere hood and a ruffled V-neck cardigan, both centered around layering, versatility, and understated detailing. Looking back, this project really strengthened the way I think about product development. It taught me how much thought goes into building an assortment that feels cohesive, and how even small details can shift the way a collection feels. More than anything, it reinforced my interest in the relationship between merchandising and design, and how the two work together to create products that feel thoughtful and relevant.