Precollections

Precollections are fashion lines released by design houses that fall outside the main seasonal collections. They are intended to maintain brand visibility and respond to market demand between major runway periods, often presented to buyers and press at midseason events or showrooms and then distributed to retailers ahead of or after the corresponding main collection.

In practice, precollections can be produced at varying scales and may blend transitional pieces with contemporary designs. They typically emphasize ready-to-wear formats and accessible price points, aiming to keep products flowing to stores without waiting for the next full-season launch. The naming and presentation of these lines vary by brand; some use the term precollection, while others refer to them as resort, cruise, or resort collections, depending on market positioning and timing.

Origin and usage have roots in the globalization of fashion markets and the need for brands to manage calendar-driven production and inventory more flexibly. Precollections help brands sustain consumer engagement, test new looks, and reduce seasonal risk by spreading product introductions throughout the year. They are most common in the luxury and premium segments, though the concept appears across a range of fashion houses with different strategies.

Critics and industry observers note that precollections contribute to extended fashion cycles and increased production, raising sustainability concerns for some brands. Proponents argue they provide important commercial flexibility and prevent large gaps between product availability and consumer demand.

In summary, precollections are a flexible, market-oriented fashion concept used to bridge seasons, inform inventory planning, and maintain brand presence between core collections, with practices that vary by brand and region.