Features — Page 2

Which Brands Are Cashing in on the 2024 Olympics

July 22, 2024 by admin 1 Comment

Image courtesy of nbcuniversal.com

Every four years, the Summer Olympic Games come around, as people gather to cheer their respective countries across various sports, from gymnastics, diving, boxing to track and field, tennis, basketful and asundry Olympic sports. Many major cities across the globe put in their bid to become the host city for the games, with Paris winning the bid for 2024. One of the reasons cities are eager to become the host city for the Olympic Games is because of how much money it generates.

An independent study published on the Olympics website revealed Paris stands to generate between 6.7 billion and 11.1 billion euros, with an intermediate scenario projecting 8.9 billion euros in net economic impact. MarketWatch reported that the Paris Olympics cost Paris 8.2 billion dollars to host.

Between the infrastructure cost for building the Olympic venues and the tourists descending upon the city for the Olympics, the event is a cash cow. For fashion companies, the Olympics are also a time to make a cash grab by hooking themselves to the globally watched event. From the companies behind certain teams’ uniforms to activations and pop-ups centered around the Olympics, any brand able to cash in on the Olympics will boost their brand revenues. Fashion Reverie looks at the brands and companies profiting from the 2024 Paris Olympics.

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Omega

Omega is the official timekeeper of the Olympics, a distinction the company has had since 1932. In honor of the event, the Swiss luxury watch company is releasing a collection of watches. Two of the timepieces include a special edition of the Speedmaster Chronoscope bearing the Olympic symbol only available at their Paris boutique, and the Speedmaster Chronoscope in four models featuring the “Paris 2024” logo.

Image courtesy of lvmh.com

LVMH

Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton LVMH (LVMH), the owner of luxury brands, including their namesake Louis Vuitton, and Dior, Givenchy, and Celine, is an official sponsor of this year’s Olympic games. The luxury conglomerate played a major role in the opening of the Louis Vuitton torch trunk for the start of the Paris 2024 Olympic Torch Relay on the Champs Élysées. Sephora, also owned by LVMH, hosted an experiential pop-up at the Hotel de Ville’s Paris 2024 celebration zone, marking their finale stage after Bordeaux, Nice, and Lille.

Image courtesy of mene.com

Mene

Luxury jewelry brand Mene debuted the Olympia collection in honor of the 2024 Olympic Games. The special collection is a nod to the Olympic games of ancient Greece, which honored Zeus. Mene’s special Olympia collection includes a wild olive leaf crown, tiny temples, and a two-handled antique vase. Designs are available in 24-karat gold or platinum.

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Asics

Asics provides Australian athletes with shoes for the Olympic Games. In honor of this year’s ceremony, the brand has released a limited-edition Olympic supporter range replicating some of the team’s uniforms. Asics said they saw the Olympics as an opportunity to build as an innovative performance brand rather than chase short-term sales. The Olympics will spell big brand awareness for their European business.

Image courtesy of Instagram

Fenty Beauty

Beauty mogul and pop star Rihanna took to Instagram to announce that her Fenty Beauty brand is a premium partner for both the Olympics and the Paralympic Games. The current trending hashtag following her announcement is #FentyxParis2024.

Rihanna proved the power of how her brand benefits from sporting events when she stopped mid-performance at the 2023 Super Bowl to reapply her Fenty makeup, generating $5 million in media impact value for her brand according to Launchmetrics. With the Olympics on a bigger scale, Rihanna is looking at a solid quarter for the fiscal year.

Image courtesy of nike.com

Nike

Few names in fashion are more synonymous with sports and athletes than Nike. As Nike is looking to rebound after declining sales, this year they are spending more on the Olympics than any other previous Olympic year in the company’s history. The goal of all their marketing spending is to compete with other sportswear rivals, and they revealed the new Nike Air sneakers for athletes in Paris ahead of the Paris Olympics.

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Levi Strauss

Although Levi’s isn’t releasing any Paris Olympics-specific merchandise, they are taking advantage of the incoming tourist dollars. The denim maker is reopening its flagship store on the Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most highly trafficked shopping destinations. Olympic spectators and shop at Levi’s for a quick pair of everyday denim if they forget to pack their favorite jeans.

Image courtesy of ralphlauren.com

Ralph Lauren

Storied American brand Ralph Lauren returned for a remarkable ninth time to dress Team USA for the opening and closing ceremonies. The brand has released the Olympic-themed merchandise on its website and at retail stores, with the closing ceremony jacket priced at $998. A quick search on Ralph Lauren’s website shows that some sizes are already in low stock, making the Olympic merchandise a money maker.

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Chanel

Chanel is one of the most recognized names in fashion but it’s not the first brand most people think of when it comes to the Olympics. To celebrate the 2024 ceremony, Chanel has released an haute joaillerie, or high jewelry, collection, titled “Sport.” The signature piece in the collection is a diamond, ruby, and sapphire necklace emulating the colors of the French flag.

With the amount of construction and detail that goes into high-end jewelry pieces, these have been in the works for years. Chanel had sufficient time since Paris was announced as the Olympic host city in 2017.

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Lacoste

Lacoste has released its sixth Olympic heritage collection, featuring an eight-piece “Paris 1924” line. Pieces in the collection include polo shirts, shorts, caps, and a waterproof jacket. The collection is available on Lacoste’s website, at their stores, and on the official Olympic merchandise website. Lacoste even created a special Olympic Heritage label tag for the collection featuring the iconic Lacoste crocodile.

Kristopher Fraser

Self Care in the Summer of Love

July 19, 2024 by admin 1 Comment

Each year as the calendar turns to July, Fashion Reverie, loves to talk about the ‘Summer of Love’. This means we often talk about date nights, movies to watch, and other romantic things that relate to pop culture and fashion. But today, we’ll be diving into the other facet of love; self-love.

Self-love can be made fun of and thought of as something to do only when you’re sad or in need of a self-esteem boost. That can be true; however, self-love is just as important, if not more important than being loved by a partner. While self-love doesn’t just come in the form of self-care, it’s a good place to start. When taking care of your body (along with your mind), you’ll build confidence.

Fashion Reverie has curated some of our favorite ways to care for your body. Some are simple things you can do at home and others are a little more elaborate–like massages and spa nights.

Manicures and Pedicures

A good manicure and pedicure can be as simple as getting a beautiful pack of press-on nails or a good bottle of nail polish and painting them at home. If you take a moment to look at the nails of models or your favorite celebrities, you’ll most likely notice that they’re well-trimmed and painted to perfection. These might all be done in the salon, but now it’s easier than ever to get salon quality at home … unless you choose to splurge and take yourself to get a manicure!

Facials

Similar to manicures and pedicures, a facial can be done at home or at the salon. In a world where glowing skin is seen like a beacon, it’s not make-up that’s making everyone’s face so perfect, but a good skincare routine set apart by the once-in-a-while facial. Try a face mask from Kiehls or head to a nearby spa to rejuvenate your skin.

Working out

Getting your daily exercise is just as important as putting together an incredible outfit or taking care of your skin. Not only will exercise make you feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin, but it’s also a great way to get a natural glow and destress,

Massages

Massages are best when done at a spa, but if you do have a partner at hand perhaps try a romantic couples massage at home! This is a great way to destress, release toxins in your body, and find a sense of calm.

Spas

Spa days are a great way to appreciate yourself and take care of your body. One spa that we highly recommend is BYOU Laser Clinic in New York with locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Long Island. They focus on enhancing your natural beauty through laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, and body treatments. Whatever spa you choose, the spa’s ambiance is always enough to soothe your body and spirit.

Sydney Yeager

Dippity Don’t Says: July 2024

July 2, 2024 by admin 1 Comment

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Independence Day is just around the corner, meaning it’s time for barbecue, fireworks, and tea. While the tea is usually served iced cold (hopefully sweet) in July, Fashion Reverie has come to serve it hot. The fashion industry has been filled with rumors of major moves and business dealings, and as usual, Fashion Reverie has the monthly dish. Get your teacups ready!!

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We need sales!!

This top luxury brand everyone wanted just several seasons ago has taken one of the worst falls from grace. Once the crown jewel of this luxury conglomerate’s multi-brand portfolio, throughout 2024, their sales have continued to decline. Their sales have become so terrible that they are laying off client-facing positions, including sales associates, which is almost unheard of unless there are store closures.

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. This brand brought in a new designer in the fall, but sales for his designs have been lackluster, and it doesn’t seem sales will perk up anytime soon.

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Another fashion app bites the dust

Earlier this month, software company Launchmetrics emailed its platform’s users, letting them know that GPS Radar is shutting down. The app was how many fashion industry professionals received and tracked their event invitations for New York Fashion Week shows.

It appears the end of GPS Radar could have been prevented. Industry sources say there was a deal in the works in 2023 to sell GPS Radar to another owner, but once that fell through, they were forced to sell. R.I.P. to receiving invitation notifications through GPS Radar. Fashion will have to get used to Google Calendar invites.

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Chanel who?

In early June, Chanel announced artistic director, Virginie Viard, would be stepping down after five years in her current role and nearly thirty years at the brand. This prominent fashion designer, once the creative director of a major luxury label, has been spotted in Paris hunting for apartments. Chanel also reportedly refuted any questions regarding where who the next creative director position will be when asked by industry professionals Although Chanel is not the only fashion house in Paris with an open position, this designer could be a surprise contender for one of the biggest jobs in fashion.

Image courtesy of flickr.com

I want it all!!

This legendary fashion figure may have passed away in 2020, but his 9 heirs are still battling over the contents of the will. The major dispute is between two of his muses, who are allegedly locked in a drama so heated that it could’ve been a full-season plot on the original ‘80s soap opera “Dynasty.” If distributed equitably, his $270 million fortune would leave each heir $30 million richer.

—Mr. Dippity Don’t

The Intersection of Fashion and Music: A 2024 Retrospective

June 26, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

The intersection of music and fashion has long been a significant influence in helping to shape popular culture. Both music and fashion have the power to create trends and inspire creativity with their respective fans. Fashion Reverie looks back over the past 30 years to touch on a history of when music and fashion came together to influence and define generations for decades.

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The public fascination with their idols’ fashion and beauty choices began as early as the days of Sinatra’s stylish Rat Pack that spanned from the late 1950’s to mid-1960’s. At this point, the intersection between music and fashion was of an organic nature. The Rat Pack did not purposely set about to create fashion trends, but they unwittingly served as a fashion influence on their audiences, much as musicians and corporations would in the decades that followed. Rather, this informal group of entertainers (Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop), possessed innate style that appealed to men of that time who copied their effortlessly dapper classic elegance. Frank Sinatra remained a style icon to this generation for the rest of his life.

Next, came the undeniable influence of MTV. The MTV Channel first aired on August 1, 1981, and became known as “MTV Hour One.” Although the official messaging was about music and television coming together, what MTV executives had not initially planned on was the impact the musicians and their videos would have on fashion.

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The first videos, The Buggles’ “Video Killed the Radio Star” is quaintly simplistic compared to 2024 standards, but audiences responded, and started emulating the clothes, hair, and makeup of their favorite musicians. Fast forward to 1982 when Madonna debuted on MTV with “Everybody” and 2 years later with her club hit, “Lucky Star.” Both were low budget and the Material Girl styled herself as she was too poor to afford a stylist. Young female fans flocked to her concerts, dressed up in black mesh tops with lace head bows, rubber bracelets and crucifixes, seeking to copy Madonna’s glam punk look. This was the beginning of the self-expression movement that Lady Gaga and Billie Eilish would continue to promote through their music and fashion choices in the 2000’s. It is of note that David Bowie and Blondie were also style icons, but their underground fashion looks were not monetarily viable. Their fans fashioned their self-styled costumes with finds from Good Will and other thrift shops.

In 1984, all of that changed as fashion and music began to go more mainstream. A big jump in this direction came when Madonna hired Maripol, a Moroccan fashion stylist, credited for putting together Madonna’s infamous “Like a Virgin” look. Other musicians took note and hired fashion stylists to the extent that fashion music stylists became important players in the fashion scene.

This intersection between music and fashion gained momentum over the next three decades as other artists such as The Notorious B.I.G., Spice Girls, and Courtney Love continued to inspire both fans and fashion designers. Fashion designers made clothing to capitalize on the public’s growing interest in what musicians wore. One of the biggest trends in the 1990’s was B.I.G.’s Timberland shirt, and baggy trousers. Teens flocked to Tommy Hilfiger and Banana Republic to scoop up items from them to achieve this streetwear style trend.

In 2024, the relationship between music and fashion remains as vibrant as ever. Below are five examples of the present day’s most notable examples.

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The annual MET Gala

The Gala has morphed from a fashion industry event in the 1990’s to a fashion platform for innumerable music stars as early as the 2010’s when performers such as Gwen Stefani (LA.M.B.), Jennifer Lopez, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, and so many more made regular appearances on the Gala’s red carpet. This year, musician Bad Bunny was not only one of the invitees but was also a Gala’s co-chair.

A$AP, the Harlem born rapper, is closely reported on for his sartorial style and Gucci took notice. In 2023, fashion photographer, Glen Luchford, shot him alongside Julia Garner, and Elliot Page, who were chosen for their “bold authenticity” and artistic achievements. In the video and stills for the campaign, Grammy-Award nominated A$AP Rocky, Oscar-Award nominated Page, and Emmy-Award winner Julia Garner, lounge in the lavish and nostalgic spaces of a vintage estate. According to Gucci’s website, the campaign is “an ode to the idea of home, a literal but also metaphorical place where we are free to be our whole, authentic selves.”

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Netflix and Riley Keogh in Daisy Jones & the Six

Elvis Presley’s granddaughter, actor, Riley Keough, smashed Netflix streaming records for her performance in “Daisy Jones & the Six” earlier this year. The thinly veiled biopic of Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac reignited interest in Nicks’ flowing haute 1970’s bohemian look in the fashion sphere. Executives at Chanel responded by naming Keough their new brand ambassador. As such, she stars alongside model Rianne Van Rompaey in the spring 2024 Chanel clothing and beauty campaigns, shot by fashion photographers Inez & Vinoodh.

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Dior and Louis Vuitton

Both Travis Scott and Pharrell Williams have recently collaborated with two of the world’s most prestigious brands, Dior and Louis Vuitton. Scott incorporated elements of his own street inspired Cactus Jack line to help create a successful and visually striking collection inspired and dedicated to his late friend fellow rapper, Pop Smoke, whose biggest hit was entitled “Dior.” The collaboration struck a chord with fans and successfully combined elements of streetwear with high fashion.

Williams’ appointment as creative director for Louis Vuitton men was one of the most highly reported on events in recent fashion history. Like Scott, he too drew on his roots as a musician to mold his collections from his nostalgic cowboy themed debut to his most recent homage to the 2024 summer Olympics.

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Billie Eilish and Body Acceptance

Eilish burst onto the music scene in 2014, and from the start, wanted the focus to be on her music, rather than on her body, but this did not mean that she resorted to wearing shapeless sweats or muumuus. Rather, she put together her unique style that was a marked departure from the norm of singers that preceded her. The latter, Britney Spears, Mariah Carey, and Beyonce displayed their tightly toned bodies and long flowing hair whenever they performed.

In 2019, Eilish starred in a Calvin Klein campaign and told www.businessinsider.com that “she wears baggy clothes because she doesn’t want the world to know everything about her or have an opinion about her body.” Eilish was right in line with the growing popular movement of body positivity and the right to be okay with being whatever size you happen to be.

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Harry Styles and his Androgynous Over the Top Style

Like Eilish, Harry Styles, one of pop’s most popular singers, got his start very early in life. At age 16, in 2010, Simon Cowan chose him to be part of his One Direction boy band. As the English Irish pop band’s days came to an end in 2015, Styles had transitioned his look from cutesy to grungy hunk, appearing at one of his last concerts in a white tank top and do-rag.

In his next chapter as a solo artist, Styles flexed his fashion muscles and became a controversial figure when he began his collaboration with Gucci’s then creative director, Alessandro Michele in 2018 and ending in 2022 in a collection called “Gucci HAHAHA” in which he modeled avant-garde menswear looks.

Styles dresses as he pleases, often adopting what were previously considered feminine elements into his looks, blending them with masculine touches. He boldly appeared on the cover of US Vogue in a filmy Gucci dress topped with a structured military style coat, shot by Tyler Mitchell in 2020. The message he conveyed was that you may dress as you wish, and that there is no shame in blurring the boundaries of dressing into a style now referred to as “the new masculinity.”

Images courtesy of Getty Images

Taylor Swift and her “Swifties”

At the pinnacle of today’s fashion-music scene sits Taylor Swift, who according to an article in www.dailyrepublic.com, had 107,442 monthly Google searches about her style in the US alone. The ever-increasing interest in her wardrobe choices is no doubt propelled by the success of the six tours under her belt and her current “Eras” tour that is sold-out world-wide.

Such is Swift’s hold on fans that entire stadiums of “Swifties” come dressed as their self-styled version of their idol. The singer’s recent Super Bowl outfit designed by Dion Lee (Roberto Cavalli’s successor), cost over $50,000, according to www.dailyrepublic.com. The chanteuse works closely with her stylist, Joseph Cassell Falconer, to change her look, much to her fans’ delight.

Swift is constantly photographed on the red carpet experimenting with different colors, textures, and silhouettes, all paired with her iconic red lip. Her most recent favorite is LiquiLust Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick in Elson 4, by Pat McGrath, that is consistently sold out, according to John Saldana, the company’s account executive for the Mid-Atlantic.

There is no doubt that the intersection of music and fashion that began over fifty years ago will continue to have a dynamic influence in helping to shape fashion and our popular culture in the years to come.

—Vivian Kelly

Gender-Fluid Fashion Brands and Designers Breaking Boundaries

June 25, 2024 by admin 1 Comment

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In the iconic 2000s and early 2010s television series “Glee,” the show’s resident fashionista Kurt Hummel, played by Golden Globe winner Chris Colfer, declared, “Fashion has no gender” in the Season Two premiere of the show. Throughout the series, it wasn’t unusual for the costume department to dress the character in a women’s top or jacket, but never quite err on what the average person would consider cross-dressing.

Jayden Smith, who famously appeared in Louis Vuitton’s campaign wearing a skirt, once stated, “It’s just clothes.” Women, who are allowed more freedom in literally “borrowing from the boys,” are now more openly shopping the men’s sections for true boyfriend jeans, and the tomboy look hasn’t waned at any point in modern history.

In the 2010s, the talk of gender-neutral fashion came into the cultural zeitgeist, as discussions of gender non-conforming people and transgender people began to become a larger part of political discourse. By 2017, even household-name brands were hopping on the gender-fluid fashion bandwagon. That year, H&M released a 19-piece line of gender-fluid oversized denim basics. Parisian brand AVOC also won the prestigious ANDAM prize, paving the way for their gender-fluid designs.

With 2024 Pride Month, Fashion Reverie wanted to look at some of the brands doing gender-fluid fashion the best in 2024. Let’s review, and happy Pride.

Image courtesy of officialrebrand.shop

Official Rebrand

Official Rebrand was founded by MI Leggett, a New York-based non-binary artist. The brand pushes the message of gender-fluid fashion while remaining committed to sustainability, with all the pieces being upcycled from thrift or gently used garments.

Rather than taking the traditional fashion approach, Leggett sees themselves as a brand who uses clothing as their canvas and message of sustainability. One of Official Rebrand’s most famous clothing pieces is their “Angels Have No Gender sweatshirt,” which was worn by the non-binary character Ché Diaz, played by non-binary actor Sara Ramirez, on Season Two of Max’s “And Just Like That,” the reboot of the hit “Sex and the City” series.

Image courtesy of tomboyx.com

TomboyX

Shopping for underwear as a gender-fluid or non-binary person can be very challenging, as most underwear is very gendered. TomboyX is on a mission to solve this problem by constructing gender-fluid underwear, ranging from bras to briefs. The brand’s offerings also include swimwear, boy shorts, and even menstrual cycle-specific underwear. One of TomboyX’s core design philosophies is considered construction, as they seek to have all individuals who wear their clothes feel at ease in their skin, regardless of gender identity.

Image courtesy of wildfang.com

Wildfang

Wildfang began in a studio apartment in Portland, Oregon, when the founders started asking themselves “why aren’t there more femme clothes with real pockets and why there weren’t button-ups with no boob gap.” Wildfang’s board and team include diverse members across all gender identities, and one of their biggest claims to fame is their blazers, which come in tuxedo and double-breasted styles.

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Barragán

Although Barragán might be considered a little off-the-wall by some, the brand is bringing something fresh, edgy, and out-of-the-box to the fashion scene. The brand’s designs, which are a mixture of camp, streetwear, and avant-garde aesthetics, comment on issues like capitalism and free-trade realism.

His designs often include camouflage in reference to military issues, political slogans referencing border issues, and images of hypodermic needles referencing the drug crisis. The brand’s designer, Victor Barragán, has no interest in commercial clothes but is here with a gender-fluid message for the political left.

Image courtesy of charlesjeffreyloverboy.com

Charles Jeffrey Loverboy

Charles Jeffrey is one of the biggest rising stars in London’s fashion scene, and his brand, Charles Jeffrey Loverboy, has found a considerable audience and major retail partners, including Ssense, Farfetch, and Saks Fifth Avenue. A quick visit to the brand’s website will find that they don’t separate their designs by gender as part of their gender-fluid philosophy.

It is not unheard of for Jeffrey to put men in dresses. To date, he’s dressed celebrities, including Harry Styles, Tilda Swinton, and J-Hope of BTS.

Image courtesy of kirrinfinch.com

Kirrin Finch

Brooklyn-based couple Laura Moffat and Kelly Sanders Moffat set out on a mission to challenge fashion industry norms for what is considered menswear and what is considered womenswear. This led to the birth of their brand, Kirrin Finch, which created gender-defying menswear-inspired apparel designed to fit a range of female and non-binary bodies.

The brand is also committed to sustainable practices, and the Moffats scour the globe to find factories committed to fair labor and ethical manufacturing practices. Kirrin Finch’s linen suits are very popular, and great for a summertime formal event or wedding.

Image courtesy of bigbudpress.com

Big Bud Press

In an era where Made in America is practically considered over, Big Bud Press managed to not only create a gender-fluid line of clothing but also meet a goal of only using fabrics made in America. The Los Angeles-based company specializes in everyday unisex goods and has expanded its reach beyond California, with stores in Chicago and New York City. The brand prides itself on both gender inclusivity and doing all production sweatshop-free.

Image courtesy of thephluidproject.com

The Phluid Project

The Phluid Project is one of the major e-commerce platforms for gender-fluid fashion. Founded in 2018 by Rob Garrett Smith, a retail veteran who has held stints at Macy’s, Levi’s, Nike, and Victoria’s Secret, The Phluid Project’s mission is to dissolve the boundaries of gender in fashion, all while engaging in community and activism.

In addition to their own merchandise, Phluid also regularly partners with other brands and releases collaborative merchandise. Aside from their e-commerce platform, Phluid also has the Phluid Foundation, a non-profit that helps direct resources to BIPOC members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Kristopher Fraser

Fashion Reverie’s Summer 2024 Fashion Quiz

June 23, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

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As we head into the summer season, it is always a good idea to look back at some of the great fashion news that has occurred in the first half of the year. From noted fashion designers that have passed away to new celebrity brand ambassadors to fashion brands that are closing shop, there is always lots of movement in the fashion industry.

Every season, Fashion Reverie curates a fashion quiz to test our viewers’ knowledge of current events in the fashion industry. Take the quiz and test your skill!!

1.Which fashion designer was the winner of “Project Runway: All Stars, Season 20?

a) Christian Siriano

b) Bishme Cromartie

c) Malan Breton

2. Did the department store Nordstrom’s start out as a

a) women’s apparel line

b) luxury department store

c) footwear store

3. How many times has the Ralph Lauren brand created uniforms for the US Olympic teams?

a) ten times

b) nine times

c) seven times

4. Which noted fashion stylist has a new book coming out?

a) Law Roach

b) Phillip Bloch

c) June Ambrose

5. What famous duo is coming together for a potential new fashion reality TV show?

a) Austin Scarlett and Santino Rice

b) Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum

c) Paris Hilton and Nicole Ritchie

6. Want is the name of Supermodel Bella Hadid’s new fragrance?

a) Bella

b) Slay

c) Ôrəbella

7. When did Conde Nast Union reach an agreement with Conde Nast over wages and benefits?

a) June 15, 2024

b) May Day, 2024

c) May 6, 2024

8. Which esteemed European fashion brand is removing their clothing and accessories from discount outlets?

a) Chanel

b) Gucci

c) Louis Vuitton

9. Which famous fashion designer is stepping down from his eponymous fashion brand?

a) Dries von Noten

b) Rick Owens

c) Ralph Lauren

10. Which international fashion designer died in April of this year?

a) Issey Miyake

b) Vivienne Westwood

c) Roberto Cavalli

11. Which legendary magazine may go belly up in 2024?

a) Paper magazine

b) Marie Claire magazine

c) Sports Illustrated magazine

12. Idris Elba has a campaign with which menswear brand?

a) John Varvatos

b) Calvin Klein

c) Perry Ellis

Answer Key: 1) Bishme Cromartie; 2) Footwear store; 3) Nine times; 4) Law Roach; 4) Paris Hilton and Nicole Ritche; 6) Ôrəbella; 7) May 6, 2024; 8) Gucci; 9) Dries von Noten; 10) Roberto Cavalli; 11) Sports Illustrated; 12) Calvin Klein

William S. Gooch

Andre Lawrence’s Album Dustrial Denim: The Fusion of Fashion and Sound

June 17, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

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The interplay between fashion and music has long been a powerful force in shaping cultural landscapes. Andre Lawrence, a rising star from New York City, exemplifies this dynamic intersection through his multifaceted career. Having attended the University of Vermont and Roc Nation School at Long Island University, Lawrence’s journey has significantly influenced his artistic evolution. His experiences have culminated in a unique blend of urban grit and creative expression, highlighted in his latest album, “Dustrial Denim.”

“Dustrial Denim” represents a deeper connection to Lawrence’s identity and the industrial essence of New York City’s youth culture. The name pays homage to the sturdy, utilitarian jeans worn by skateboarders and city kids, a perennial constant in Lawrence’s life. This sense of continuity and connection to his roots is reflected in his music and fashion, creating a cohesive artistic vision that resonates with many.

Lawrence’s debut at New York Fashion Week in September 2023 for designer Kelly Butts-Spirito and the ‘Love Kelly’ brand marked a significant milestone in his career, bridging the gap between his musical endeavors and his foray into the fashion world. Through collaborations with designers and appearances on major music media platforms, he has showcased how seamlessly music and fashion can influence each other. His unique style, characterized by a blend of baggy jeans, oversized tees, and curated outfits, underscores his belief that fashion is integral to his musical identity.

The release of his latest video, “Greener Grass,” further exemplifies this fusion. Drawing inspiration from the 90s North Face Gore-Tex wave and coordinating visuals with his music, Lawrence has created a vibrant homage to New York’s rich cultural tapestry. Collaborations with fellow artists like Lord Sko and producers like Arlo Walker have further enriched his style, blending elements of hip-hop and urban streetwear to create a distinct, authentic aesthetic.

In an exclusive interview with Fashion Reverie, Andre Lawrence delves deeper into this unique intersection and shares insights into his creative journey.

Fashion Reverie: Can you tell us about your journey from the University of Vermont to New York City? What inspired this move, and how has it influenced your career?

Andre Lawrence: I’m from New York City, like from Upper West my whole life. I went to the University of Vermont (UVM). I didn’t really think I was going to create music. I enjoyed skiing so that was a big reason for me choosing UVM.

While at UVM, I was creatively stunted. So many opportunities started appearing that I could not take advantage because I was so far away. I was already coming to NYC every other weekend, so, I decided I needed to return to the city. I found the Roc Nation School and moved in with a friend. The rest is history.

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FR: What is the story behind your stage name ‘Dustrial Denim’? How does it reflect your identity and artistic vision?

Andre Lawrence: ‘Dustrial Denim’ was a symbol for the type of industrial jeans and carpenter jeans that every kid in the city would wear skateboarding while doing the things they do. I feel like it was a good symbol for the adolescents in New York City and it was also this one constant I had.

While attending UVM, everything changed except for the jeans I was wearing. I was trying to find a way to say it in a cool way when it came to alliteration. ‘Dustrial Denim’ is super important as a name, an album, and an idea. I wanted to reflect on being a kid in New York City in a way that was straight to the point.

FR: You did your first runway show for New York Fashion Week in September of 2023 and have found modeling gigs from that opportunity while releasing music projects and being featured on major music media platforms like On The Radar Radio. How do you see the relationship between fashion and music in your work:

Andre Lawrence: I am forever grateful to Kelly Butts-Spirito for getting me involved in his first fashion show back in September. Someone reached out to Julie Anne Quay, the founder of VFILES, who hosted Kelly’s show. Someone saw the pictures online and through that show someone reached out saying I would be a good face for their agency.

Image courtesy of Instagram

FR: Your latest video, ‘Greener Grass,’ is creating a buzz. Can you share the concept behind it and how fashion played a role in its visual storytelling?

Andre Lawrence: There’s a whole movement in the 90s of North Face Gore-Tex people that were in love with Polo and there was a whole wave of New York heads that would just collect Gore-Tex jackets and wear them with the hood zipped up to the top. Gore-Tex jackets are expensive now but at the time, it was like a common thread among tons of people who were in love with Polo and North Face. As time went on, Gore-Tex jackets faded with the wave of high fashion and SOHO and Ksubi jeans and Purple Brand and all these skinnier looks.

I found out that two of my OG’s (original gangsters) were reselling a lot of Gore-Tex from the 90’s and bringing back the wave. So as a homage to that, we talked to them about getting people to wear their Gore-Tex jackets in the video. Because it was a video for ‘Greener Grass’ off the album, Kelly wanted to get green felt for a studio set. He wanted to do something very reminiscent of Tyler The Creator with the flowers and coordinate the jackets to the color scheme of the entire video. It came back looking super good and I was excited that it panned out the way it did.

FR: You’ve collaborated with artists like Arlo Walker, a producer based in Brooklyn, and Lord Sko. How do these collaborations impact your style and output in both music and fashion?

Andre Lawrence At one time, Sko was my first friend in the industry, and he introduced me to Arlo while they were working together. I have always worn baggy jeans and gone for a certain skater aesthetic. I was really into Phat Farm and FUBU jeans. Hanging around Sko helped me learn about Pele Pele and Avirex and that not only can your jeans be baggy, but your jacket can be baggy as well. I’m into short-sleeved flannel button-ups and baggy tees that drip over the elbow. That oversized look is true New York style and coincides with hip-hop.

FR: How would you describe your style in both music and fashion? Who or what are your biggest influences in each domain?

Andre Lawrence: I listen to Dipset, Earl Sweatshirt, Joey Badass, etc. These artists are contributing to the ways that I rap and the way that I want to portray New York and bring back New York ‘Ra,’ because young New York artists haven’t been prominent specifically in hip-hop for a long time. Drill music and trap have grown and developed, but I want to represent New York hip-hop in a certain way, stylistically, whether it comes to rapping or the clothes I am wearing. Steve Lacy, Frank Ocean, Amy Winehouse, and Otis Redding are very soulful artists and influence me on a hook or in terms of the way I might choose a sample or put on a tighter knit sweater.

So, I still admire certain things about hip-hop while incorporating things from other genres and other artists. My vinyl for ‘Dustrial Denim’ combines graffiti, canvas, and music into one singular thing that stands out.

Image courtesy of Instagram

FR: Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects?

Andre Lawrence: I am creating this EP over the summer called ‘Transcript’ and it’s themed around failing school and balancing that life experience. I am also creating the next album, ‘Summer in October,’ which I have been putting a lot of thought and time into this project.

This album is a lot more musical, a lot more instruments, less samples, more singing, more hooks, more bridges, etc. It is more about being a young adult in New York City and less about being a kid. It’s a little more mature and a little less gritty. Stylistically, I am still expanding with the modeling stuff. I just did a big shoot for eBay and I’m coming off the Highsnobiety photoshoot, as well.

The ‘Summer in October’ theme will feature hoodies, but it will not be denim themes anymore. I want it to be themed around a soft knit hoodie. I am excited about that album; it is going to be a super cool project.

Ryan Salfino

7 LGBTQIA+ Designers You Should Know

June 6, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

It’s no secret that queer people are the backbone of the fashion industry. From designers to photographers and models to publicists, men and women who are part of queer culture are often at the helm. It’s joked about, like a hushed secret, that gay men are more attuned to details. But there’s truth to that. Gay men and women venture into the fashion industry already accustomed to second glances from those in society who can’t accept that people should just love who they want. Because of this need to grow a thicker skin, many become avant-garde and precocious designers that push the boundaries of fashion.

For Pride Month, Fashion Reverie is honoring just a few designers who have encouraged fashion and design into spaces one couldn’t imagine. Halston’s simplistic, draped designs dressed the socialites of the ‘70s, Vivier’s elegant shoes tapped us into the heels of today, and Michael Kors’ consumer accessibility brought the ideals of luxury fashion to American masses.

Halston

Ever since the Netflix Docu-series on Halston, this talented designer has once again been thrust into the limelight. The American designer’s clean and minimalist designs became a fundamental part of the ‘70s disco scene in New York City. And deservedly so. His creations were the perfect mix of bohemian and classic, throw in his presence at the Battle of Versailles or the dance floor of Studio 54 and the Swans of 5th Avenue would come fluttering to his doorstep.

Roger Vivier

When it comes to designer heels three names come to mind, Louboutin, Manolo, and Vivier. Roger Vivier’s shoes fall under the classic category of “If you know, you know.” The modern style of stiletto topped with a chrome buckle is one of Vivier’s signature looks and became a must-have in the ‘60s. During the late 2000s, his brand would have a resurgence after being mentioned in the popular show Gossip Girl as a favorite designer of Blair Waldorf.

Christian Siriano

Coming from a “Project Runway” background, Christian Siriano has taken the fashion world by storm after winning the fashion reality show’s fourth season. His detailed gowns now make regular appearances on red carpets everywhere. Known for elaborate layers of chiffon and bright colors, Siriano is a designer worth keeping your eye on.

Alexander McQueen – Backstage at the controversial
Spring/Summer 2001 VOSS show, which was set in a
psychiatric ward.

Alexander McQueen

British fashion designer Alexander McQueen was well known for his collections at both his eponymous label and Givenchy. The late Alexander McQueen was known for designs that pushed the fashion world into a more artistic direction, when mixing sculptural and avant-garde influences into fashion collections was still relatively new. McQueen’s talent would eventually go on to be recognized by Queen Elisabeth II, presenting the designer with the CBE honor.

Marc Jacobs

The age-old adage that you can tell when a male designer loves women is particularly true when looking at the designs of Marc Jacobs. He embraces the feminine spirit with delicate details and fun colors while maintaining a level of everyday practicality as evidenced in his ready-to-wear collections. In 2010 he was ranked by Time magazine as one of the most influential people in America and in 2012 was placed at #14 by Out magazine as one of the ‘50 Most Powerful Gay Men and Women in America.’

Michael Kors

Michael Kors changed the structure and game of luxury by creating a label that was very accessible to the everyday consumer, creating American sportswear with a luxury patina. Despite the brand’s mission being different from most within the American luxury platform, Kors has received applause from the fashion industry as he expands his collections to include accessories and swimwear. The brand’s ‘pre-loved’ collection would also go on to spark talks about sustainability within the industry.

LaQuan Smith

If you’re aware of the New York fashion scene and adore detailed designs with vibrant colors, then you know about or become familiar with LaQuan Smith. The African American designer has been taking the fashion scene by storm as of late and was featured in Hype Bae’s 2022 list of emerging LGBTQ designers. Keep your eyes peeled for more!

Sydney Yeager

Dippity Don’t Says June 2024

June 1, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

Image courtesy of LinkedIn

Happy June! Let’s tip our hats to summer and remember to celebrate Pride Month and the trailblazers who helped pave the way for LGBTQ rights, from Harvey Milk to Marsha P. Johnson.

With the warmer weather, it’s time for beach days, mint juleps, and picnics in the park. We are about halfway through the year already, which seems unbelievable. Of course, so much has happened in fashion since then, and Fashion Reverie is here to satisfy your intrigue about what’s going on behind the scenes in fashion.

What goes up, comes down

This top fashion designer, who has dressed almost every A-list actress from Kerry Washington to Jennifer Lopez, looks like he may have to file for bankruptcy or find a buyer. The once-successful brand, which has retail partners like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, has laid off staff amid its struggling bottom line. The wholesale model isn’t what it once was for fashion brands, with retailers often delaying payments for months, and it looks like that hit him hard. Hopefully, he can find a way to stay afloat.

The return

In some brighter news, this legendary designer has plans to stage a major anniversary show in New York City this fall. He’s known for his New York clientele, including billionaires’ daughters and wives, shelling out upwards of $80,000 for his gowns. With all the dissatisfaction over the state of New York’s runway show scene with the new Fashion Week venue, he will be a much-welcomed surprise, even for an off-calendar show.

Image courtesy of stayfitmom.com

It’s all about the benjamins

This once iconic fashion publication is under fire for publicly seeking young writers they can pay low wages, essentially promising them low rates per article. The publication is owned by a very wealthy public figure, and once news of this reached social media, there wasn’t one minute wasted raking them over the coals for trying to low ball young writers. The media climate might be tough, but people still have bills.

The promotion

The potential successor to this major designer at this French fashion house owned by a major luxury conglomerate has left his previous designer role at this top American fashion brand. It was reported the major designer he’s expected to replace was going through tough contract negotiations and would be leaving. With the proposed new designer exiting his previous role, it’s looking like those contract negotiations didn’t work out the way he hoped, and it’s time for a new era.

Mr. Dippity Don’t

Gone But Not Forgotten: A Look Back at Acclaimed Fashion Brands

May 23, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

“Fashion: one day you’re in, and the next you’re out.” These words were made famous by supermodel and television host Heidi Klum during the first 16 seasons of “Project Runway,” and have become one of the most famous catchphrases in fashion. For decades, fashion houses have come and gone, whether they were victims of WWII, economic strife in modern times, or designers moving on from fashion to other ventures.

Many brands whose names once commanded power in the fashion industry have either lost their hype, shuttered, or are nowhere to be found. Just because these brands are gone doesn’t mean they have faded from the fabric of fashion’s tapestry. Fashion Reverie looks back at brands that are gone but not forgotten.

Image courtesy of fashionencyclopedia.com

Claude Montana

French fashion designer Claude Montana founded his company, The House of Montana, in 1979. Montana became famous for the exaggerated shoulder pads in his designs, earning the nickname “King of the Shoulder Pad.” During the eighties, when dramatic shoulder pads were one of the biggest trends, Montana was on top of the world. Sadly, his business went bankrupt in 1997. Montana passed away in February 2024, leaving a legacy for fashion history books.

Image courtesy of fitnyc.edu

Stephen Burrows

Stephen Burrows was one of the few groundbreaking black designers during the ‘60s and ‘70s when black designers were few and far between. He gravitated between operating his line and working for Henri Bendel. Burrows also famously participated in the Battle of Versailles, a competition between five notable American fashion designers versus five notable Parisian designers.

Although Burrows no longer regularly presents collections, the legendary designer is still alive at 80 years old. In 2006, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) honored him with the Board of Directors Special Tribute. In 2010, he also designed a collection for Target and collaborated with Raven Denim and QVC UK.

Image courtesy of focusonstyle.com

Chado Ralph Rucci

Ralph Rucci is arguably one of the most highly regarded designers in the history of modern American fashion. In 2002, he became the first American designer in 60 years (since Main Rousseau Bocher of Mainbocher) to be invited by the French Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, France’s governing fashion body, to present in Paris. For five seasons, Rucci would show his couture collection in Paris.

In 2014, he left his label, but he still operates RR331, a fashion line he launched in 2016. Though Rucci doesn’t participate in the fashion cycle regularly, he’s still a highly respected name in fashion. It’s been reported he’s opened a couture salon, and he’s expected to return to the couture calendar in the near future.

Image courtesy of models.com

Jay Godfrey

Jay Godfrey was known for his evening wear, cocktail dresses, and love of using extra tall models for his Fashion Week presentations. For years, he had a regular spot on the New York Fashion Week (NYFW) calendar. He also dressed top celebrities, like Eva Mendes and Carrie Underwood. Sadly, Godfrey’s business became a casualty of the COVID-19 pandemic, and he shuttered his business. His dresses can still be found on resale sites, like The Real Real and Vestiaire Collective.

Image courtesy of theflairindex.com

Thakoon

Thakoon Panichgul was seemingly on top of the world during the height of his career in the ’00s.

He was a 2006 runner-up for the Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund Award, which supports emerging fashion brands with capital and mentorship. His clothes were worn by First Lady Michelle Obama, actresses Sarah Jessica Parker and Demi Moore.

In 2009, he produced a collection for Target that broadened his status as a household name. However, the brand went on hiatus in the ‘10s. In 2019, Panichgul attempted to relaunch his brand direct-to-consumer on Thakoon.com, but the site is now defunct. He now runs a media platform called Homme Girls.

Image courtesy of mr-mag.com

Band of Outsiders

Band of Outsiders was founded in Los Angeles by Scott Sternberg in 2004. Throughout the ‘00s and the first half of the ‘10s, the brand had a strong following, particularly among the menswear crowd.

Originally, all Band of Outsider’s button-downs were made in Los Angeles, and their suits in Brooklyn, making it one of the few brands with a lot of made-in-America product. Sadly, the brand went bankrupt in 2015. In 2018, Sternberg attempted to make a comeback with a new brand called Entireworld, but the brand ceased operations in 2021.

Image courtesy of jingdaily.com

Babyghost

Designers Josh Hupper and Qiaoran Huang managed to build a cult following over the 12 years they had their label, but in 2022, they decided to bring it to an end. In Instagram post, the pair described it as “an extremely difficult decision.” At the time they had their brand, they became synonymous with Chinese street style. Babyghost’s products were even sold on Chinese e-commerce platforms Taobao and Tmall.

Image courtesy of wwd.com

Cloak

Cloak had its fifteen minutes of fame. The brand, founded in 2000 by Alexandre Plokhov, was a recipient of the 2005 Swarovski Perry Award for Menswear and the 2004 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award supporting emerging designers.

Cloak became well known with the New York City downtown crowd, opening a boutique on Greene Street in New York’s SoHo boutique district in 2005.

Unfortunately, Cloak was shut down in 2007 due to partnership agreements. Plokhov would go on to designer for Versace menswear and Helmut Lang. In 2010, Plokhov attempted to launch a line under his name, but the eponymous label shuttered in 2015.

Image courtesy of ohjoy.com

Jovovich-Hawk

Models Milla Jovovich and Carmen Hawk founded Jovovich-Hawk in 2003 in Los Angeles. Their pieces quickly found top retailers, including Fred Segal and Harvey Nichols. Eventually, their points of sale worldwide would total over 50 stores. In 2006, the brand was a finalist for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund.

In 2008, Jovovich-Hawk also debuted a collection for Target. Despite their incredible momentum, in 2008 the brand ceased operations. The designers seemed to have the opposite problem of many brands who cease operations due to declining sales, with both founders saying the reason for ceasing operations was because the brand got too big for them to handle.

Kristopher Fraser