Isabel Wilkinson Schor, the creative mind behind the fashion label Attersee, embarked on her design journey after a significant career in fashion journalism. Leaving her editorial role at the New York Times's T Magazine just before the onset of the global pandemic, she launched Attersee in 2021. Her motivation stemmed from a personal desire for a versatile and refined wardrobe capable of adapting to the diverse demands of an editor's life, encompassing office duties, social engagements, and various meetings. She envisioned clothing that combined superior quality with comfort and effortless style, all while maintaining an accessible price point, typically ranging from $450 to just over $2,000.
The initial clientele for Attersee predominantly comprised fellow editors, leading to rapid organic growth through word-of-mouth. What began as a modest office space on East 64th Street swiftly transformed into an exclusive by-appointment salon, and subsequently, into a bustling retail store. This expansion necessitated a full six-day-a-week staffing, as the location became a popular destination for spontaneous visits from customers.
Attersee's remarkable success can be attributed to several factors, particularly in a market increasingly populated by women-led brands aiming to fill the void left by prohibitively expensive high fashion. Unlike many contemporaries who emerge from design studios or formal design education, Wilkinson Schor's background in newsrooms provides a unique perspective. Despite the brand's rapid ascent, she remains grounded, operating a secondary office in the Garment District and ensuring that 70% of Attersee's garments are produced locally. This localized production model affords the brand the agility to quickly replenish popular items, fulfill custom orders, and adapt to client preferences with remarkable efficiency.
The spring collection's lookbook commences with an all-white ensemble, a prevalent trend observed in New York's fashion scene this season. However, Attersee distinguishes itself through unique design elements. A notable athletic influence is evident in pieces such as an anorak featuring an industrial zip-front pocket and a dress with adjustable drawstring waist cords. Concurrently, indigo-hued items like a hand-knitted sweater and a textured striped shirtdress evoke a serene, Japanese aesthetic. Wilkinson Schor, reflecting on her past as a writer, expressed profound admiration for makers and creators, acknowledging the inherent courage in presenting one's creations to the world. Her journey has evolved considerably from her initial offering of a simple, oversized cotton-linen shirt, demonstrating a significant expansion in her creative scope and brand vision.
The brand's trajectory from a conceptual idea born out of personal wardrobe needs to a thriving fashion enterprise underscores a keen understanding of market demands and a commitment to quality and adaptability. Attersee's continued growth, driven by its unique blend of practical elegance and responsive production, solidifies its position as a noteworthy player in contemporary fashion, catering to a clientele that values both style and substance.