A New York Knicks baseball cap has become the most sought-after accessory globally, according to a report from the fashion data platform Lyst. The New Era-made cap has surpassed coveted items from luxury houses such as Chanel and Gucci, as well as Kim Kardashian's brand Skims, in popularity among high-spending consumers.
Lyst, which analyzes online shopping behavior for over 160 million luxury shoppers, observed a dramatic 4,276% increase in searches for the Knicks baseball cap since March. This surge coincides with the Knicks' first championship win since 1973, which has reportedly fueled a resurgence in demand for team merchandise.
While a Chanel pair of Y2K-style sunglasses is listed as the French brand's most in-demand item at approximately $950, the Knicks cap retails for a more accessible $40. However, due to its rapid sell-outs, the cap is being resold online for as much as $400.
Beyond the cap, other Knicks merchandise has also seen significant interest. Google Trends data indicates that searches for "Knicks tees" have increased by over 5,000% compared to the previous year, and searches for "Knicks bags" are up by 800%. In contrast, searches for "Chanel bags" saw a more modest increase of 90%.
Despite being outranked in the accessory category, Chanel maintained its position as Lyst's top-ranked brand. The venerable fashion house reported a 16% increase in earnings, largely attributed to its jewelry and watch collections. The brand's appeal has also been bolstered by new designer Matthieu Blazy and celebrity endorsements from figures like Jacob Elordi and Gracie Abrams.
The report highlights a notable shift in consumer interest, where sports team merchandise is capturing the attention of the luxury market alongside established high-fashion brands.