Quality is in the Details: Anthropologie
As a result of the current unfavorable economic landscape, I was recently in the market for another job. In my discernment for additional employment, top of the list was “aesthetic.” If I was going to be forced to leave the coziness of my thoughtfully curated living room, I had to consider carefully other spaces in which I might enjoy spending 8 hours at a time. And, in addition to earning a wage amongst beautiful surroundings, I hoped I would get to learn something from the mentors and products as well.
I sent in resumes to Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, and Anthropologie, among others. And it was while I was mentally preparing for an imaginary interview with the last of that list when I had the revelation as to what Anthropologie does particularly well.
It all began with the visualization of what I would wear for said interview: my wardrobe consists heavily of classic staples that I accent with high quality accessories. I imagined how I would use my lowkey-luxe style as my first impression. Your outfit is a canvas: you have to create a visually cohesive piece of art that draws the eye upward and ties in everything from the shoes and the belt to the coat buttons and earrings. This is what I would emphasize to the good people of Anthropologie: my understanding of a detail’s ability to up-level.
Because this is something Anthro incorporates so tastefully into their collections. Their juice glasses have tiny fruit icons embedded into the glass. Their printed kitchen towels have surprise details embroidered into the fabric. Their creative bag charms add personality to any clutch or crossbody, even their perfumes are marketed toward specific life events or roles that people play. Your everyday items, enhanced in the smallest of ways that capture attention and awe without distracting.
The true weight of details is something you may only notice in its extremes - that is to say, until you notice it done badly, or quite exquisitely. And although I remain unemployed by the brand (the interview was imaginary, remember?) I appreciated the opportunity to reflect on how the little things can make such a big difference.
Isn’t that always the case?
