Fashion News Alert: Fashion Publication Layoffs, Gisele Bundchen and David Beckham Star in Holiday Campaign, and Marc Jacobs’s Wizard of Oz Collection

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There have been several layoffs at fashion and beauty publications in the past few weeks. The latest fashion publication to bring down the axe is print and online fashion platform Highsnobiety.

Highsnobiety laid off 12 staffers this past Monday. According to puck.news, these layoffs included its New York-based fashion market editor, executive editor, commerce editor, two social media editors, and head of talent, due to high production costs. And that is not all of the expected layoffs.

Highsnobiety layoffs are expected to extend to its European branch from parent company Zalando—though its next print issue will still hit newsstands in March. This all comes on the heels of 2024’s massive staff layoffs at GoopWWDFootwear NewsTimeSports Illustrated, and more media platforms.

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Marc and the Wizard

Marc Jacobs has embraced the yellow brick road with his new Wizard of OZ capsule collection in collaboration with Warner Bros Discovery Consumer Product. This one-of-a-kind celebrates the 85th anniversary of the “Wizard of Oz” and include some of his brand’s most iconic pieces with Oz-inspired twists, including The Tote Bag, The Snapshot, and The Sack Bag.

This capsule collection includes accessories and apparel that conjures up images of iconic moments from the film—’Not in Kansas’ denim totes, the ‘Emerald City’ leather bags, and the ruby Rhinestone Kiki Mary Janes. This capsule collection reflects Jacobs’ passion for all things “Wizard of Oz.”

The collection is available online and in select Marc Jacobs boutiques, with immersive pop-ups and window displays debuting in fashion hubs like London, New York, Japan, Hong Kong, and Paris. In London, consumer can find the collection at Marc Jacobs’ 110 Regent Street location, while Selfridges Oxford Street is hosting a dedicated pop-up on its ground floor, for the next three weeks.

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Gisele, David, and Boss make three for the holidays

Once again David Beckham and Gisele Bündchen are the face of Boss’ 2024 holiday campaign alongside Lee Jong-suk and Burna Boy. The 2024 holiday campaign showcases an “elevated collection” including a range of products from eveningwear to seasonal gift ideas, bringing to life the label’s festive theme: ‘Radiant. Confident. Effortless.’

According to fashionnetwork.com, the theme of this holiday collection is an expansion of Boss’ visual concept of “empowering idea that every Boss carries with them a powerful light—making the holiday season the perfect time to share it with the world”. This visual concept shines through with Gisele and David Beckham wearing looks for the 2024 holiday campaign pictured against neon lights.

The holiday retail experience will be augmented with pop-up stores and engagement strategies. The 2024 holiday collection launched on November 6 at the brand’s stores worldwide, as well as via its webstore and through wholesale partners.

—William S. Gooch

Fashion News Alert: Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Arrested, Victoria Secret’s Runway Show Returns, and Dwayne Wade Has a New Gig

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Victoria’s Secret produced a stunning comeback with its return to the spotlight on October 15 with its runway extravaganza in New York City. Victoria’s Secret had ended its annual runway spectacular in 2019 as sales of the iconic lingerie brand declined.

This runway comeback focused on new messaging from the iconic lingerie brand which included diversity and inclusion with several plus-size models and transgender models walking in the highly anticipated runway show. The 2024 runway show also brought back iconic Victoria’s Secret models—Tyra Banks, Adrianna Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Kate Moss, Eva Herzigová, Candice Swanepoel, Jasmine Tookes, Doutzen Kroes, Behati Prinsloo, and many others. Top model newcomers to the Victoria’s Secret show included, but was not limited to Mayowa Nicholas, Devyn Garcia, Grace Elizabeth, Imaan Hammam and Paloma Elsesser.

Gigi Hadid opened the show, looking incredible after having her first child a year ago. Transgender models Valentina Sampaio and Alex Consani debuted as the first transgender women to walk the show. This extravaganza also contained performances by Tyla, Lisa aka Lalisa Manobal, with Cher being the highlight of musical acts.

In total there were over 50 models walking in the show, topped by Tyra Banks who not only walked in show, but also MCed this female-inspired event. Though many of the outfits in the show were purely for entertainment and designed specifically for the runway show, many of the lingerie garments are available in Victoria’s Secret stores and on the brand website.

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Shame, shame, shame

Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries and two others were arrested on Tuesday for alleged sex trafficking of more than a dozen victims. Jeffries and his partner, Matt Smith; and a third man, Jim Jacobson, are accused of operating an international sex trafficking ring, recruiting young men from parties in the US and other countries in a 16-count indictment.

Jeffries may have used his connections at Abercrombie & Fitch, his network of business contacts, and his vast financial wealth to lure young men into sex trafficking. Jeffries created a sex trafficking business “that was dedicated to fulfilling their sexual desires and ensuring that their international sex trafficking and prostitution business was kept secret,” the indictment alleges.

This sex trafficking business was created in 2008 and flew young men all over the world to engage in sex acts. The indictment mentions 15 alleged victims, identified as John Does #1-#15. Jeffries allegedly recruited, hired and paid a slate of household staff to “facilitate and supervise the Sex Events,” as reported in abcnews.com.

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Dwayne Wade pairs fashion and sports in new job

Dwayne Wade has a new job in fashion, but the job most people would not imagine. Wade will be a fashion editor at Carine Roitfeld and Vladimir Restoin Roitfeld’s new sports-focused publication, CR Men.

CR Men will highlight the intersectionality between sports and style, including trends, athletes’ personal fashion experiences, and more—plus, the launch will feature brand collabs, merchandise drops, and e-commerce. CR Men will launch in spring of 2025.

 In the first issue Dwayne Wade will be featured draped in racer leather, sharp suiting, and gleaming jewelry. This NBA star’s melding of athletic prowess and fashion will be the focal point of CR Men.

—William S. Gooch

Fashion News Alert: Hedi Slimane Leaves Celine, 2025 Met Gala Theme Revealed, and Joseph Altuzarra’s New Gig

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There are more shakeups in the fashion industry. Hedi Slimane has announced he is leaving Celine as its creative director. Although it has not been announced where Slimane is going next, wagging fashion tongues are intimating that it might be Chanel.

When Slimane came to Celine, there were some huge accomplishments that he was tasked with. LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault wanted Slimane to increase Celine revenue from close to €1 billion at the time up to €2 billion or even €3 billion within five years. LVMH is the holding company of Celine.

While Slimane was at Celine, he introduced menswear, couture and high-end perfumery. Because of Slimane’s influence, LVMH added that Celine is now “a house with a formidable foundation for the future.” It is not clear if Slimane reached his financial goals; that said, Slimane did breathe new life into Celine, making the brand a much larger entity.

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Black is back

The theme for the 2025 Met Gala’s has been announced. For the first time in history, the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum will host the history and fashion influence of Black dandyism—the cultural shift where Black individuals transformed with greater autonomy to become influential across the globe. This will also be the first time that the Met Gala will present an exhibit that only showcases the work of fashion designers of color. It will also be the first time in 20 years that the exhibit will be menswear focused.

The co-chairs of the 2025 Met Gala will be Anna Wintour, Pharrell Williams, Colman DomingoLewis Hamilton, and A$AP Rocky. Louis Vuitton is the benefit and main exhibit sponsor of the 2025. Other funders and contributors include Instagram, Condé Nast, the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Africa Fashion International, and The Perry Foundation.

The 2025 Met Gala occurs the first Monday in May.

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Joseph and Victoria

Joseph Altuzarra has a new job. According to Vogue, Altuzarra will be the first guest designer in residence for Victoria’s Secret Atelier. Altuzarra will create ready-to-wear collections for Victoria’s Secret that will be available in Victoria’s Secret stores throughout 2025.

Consumers will get a sneak peek of Joseph Altuzarra’s collection for Victoria’s Secret at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show which will take place in New York City on October 15. Altuzarra follows in the footsteps of Mary Kantrantzou and Olivier Rousteing, who also had collaborations with Victoria’s Secret as guest designers.

—William S. Gooch

Fashion News Alert: Margot Robbie’s New Job, Macy’s New Menswear Contemporary Brand, and Peter Nygard Sentenced

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Chanel No. 5 has a new celebrity face, Margot Robbie. Robbie has been a brand ambassador for Chanel No. 5 since 2018, fronting Chanel No. 5 campaigns Chanel Gabrielle Essence and Rouge Allure Velvet Nuit Blanche collection.

“I think Chanel N°5 is one of the most iconic fragrances in the world. It’s incredible to be a part of it,” said Robbie of the appointment. “There’s such an impressive lineage of women who’ve been associated with the fragrance over the years. I am very honored to be joining that long list of incredible talents.”

Chanel No. 5, created by the iconic Coco Chanel in 1921, was produced at a time when fragrances were made from one flower. Unlike other fragrances of that time, Chanel No. 5 contains notes of Ylang-Ylang, lemon, sandalwood, jasmine, and many more elements, setting a standard for modern fragrances.

The first campaign featuring Robbie will hit markets in October, just as we head into the holiday season.

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Nygard’s go to jail card

Peter Nygard, the founder of Canada’s largest fashion brand, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison. Nygard is being imprisoned for four counts of sexual assault against women and one young girl. Nygard could be released in four years based on the time he spent in prison in pre-trial custody.

 Ontario Superior Court Justice Robert Goldstein said in handing down the sentencing that Nygard was “a Canadian success story gone very wrong,” and that “Mr. Nygard used his wealth, power and profile to prey on his victims,” as reported in fashionnetwork.com. Nygard’s attorney Gerri Wiebe said that Nygard planned to appeal the sentencing.

Nygard was convicted in 2023 for sexually assaulting three women and a 16-year-old girl between 1988 and 2005. Nygard lured the women and the teenage girl to his home by offering them modeling jobs and other opportunities with his fashion brand. Instead, the women and the young girl were locked in his bedroom suite and preyed upon.

In the US, Nygard was known to entice women to his home and if they did not sexually comply with him, he would drug them and sexually assault them. Prosecutors had attempted to have Nygard convicted for over 15 years.

Nygard’s fall from grace is of operatic proportion. At one time Nygard owned 170 eponymous stores throughout Canada and the US, with a personal fortune of $620 million dollars. He also dined with Queen Elizabeth II, celebrities, and political leaders.

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Macy’s expands

Macy’s is attempting to reimagine its private brands. Its new menswear brand, Mode of One, includes everyday essentials and statement designs, created with a focus on fits and proportions. This collection is inspired by sports, music, technology, and street style.

For Mode of One’s debut collection, Macy’s collaborated with graphic designer Tyrell Waiters and Ouigi Theodore, founder of The Brooklyn Circus. Ouigi Theodore style this inaugural collection. Mode of One’s features over 140 items, including everything from hoodies and graphic tees to cargo pants and suiting. Prices range from $24.50 to $159.50, with sizes from S to XXL and waist sizes from 30 to 40.

“Mode of One represents our commitment to offering contemporary menswear that celebrates the individuality of the modern man,” said Emily Erusha-Hilleque, SVP, head of private brands at Macy’s. 
“We are strengthening our fashion leadership in our brand portfolio, designing brands rooted in the customer’s voice and anchored in elevated trend, quality and cultural relevancy. We are excited to introduce Mode of One to our customers and look forward to seeing how they make it their own.”

William S. Gooch

 

Breaking Fashion News Alert: NYFW Gets Political

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Though fashion is thought of as an exterior expression with very little connection to the world at large or things that relate to us on a deeper level, fashion can and does make political statements on occasion. Fashion often reflects the zeitgeist, as well as political movements. The Black Power Movement was often expressed in fashion and beauty—think big Afros, militant black leather jackets and berets. The same is true of the Hippie/Flower Power Movement—conjure up images of psychedelic, tie-dyed tees and jeans, long hair and flower logos.

In response to the rise of political movements in the US that may not be favorable to the fashion industry and creative expression, the CFDA and Vogue will host “Fashion for Our Future,” a non-partisan march in Midtown Manhattan to kick off New York Fashion Week (NYFW).

Image courtesy of elle.com

This significant event will bring together over 1,000 fashion industry members to champion democracy and encourage voter participation. With notable figures such as Anna Wintour, Thom Browne, and many other designers in attendance, the march will underscore the critical importance of voting this year. 

The event will begin at 9:00 AM on September 6 at Herald Square and will conclude with a few speeches at Bryant Park, finishing around 11:00 AM. If you want to march with the CFDA and fashion industry professionals, you can register for the “Fashion for Our Future” march here. Use FASHIONFOROURFUTURE as your password.

Please note: Check-in will be active starting at 8:00am. We suggest that you plan to arrive between 8:00am – 9:00am in your official event t-shirt—generously designed and donated by Old Navy.

—Staff

Fashion News Alert: DVF Expects Growth with New CEO, Steve Madden’s Fall 2024 Campaign, and Victoria Beckham Comes to Netflix

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New York City has been the inspiration for many fashion campaigns. This eternal inspiration is used in Steve Madden’s fall 2024 campaign. But instead of New York City architecture or landscape as a reference point, Steve Madden employs wacky New York City personalities and characters as the stars of his fall 2024 campaign.

Richie Rich, Lady Bunny—NYC nightlife mavens—Lynn Yaeger, Mickey Boardman—NYC fashion personalities—The Green Lady, Seth Phillips, and George Papoutsis, the Sign Man, are a part of Steve Madden’s fall 1014 campaign. This diverse and eclectic group of New York City characters reflect the brand’s eclectic cornucopia of retro sneakers, chunky boots, preppy loafers, and more. 

Image courtesy of theguardian.com

DVF resets

Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) is looking to bring the management of her brand in-house. Since the end of 2020, Glamel, DVF’s Chinese distributor, has managed its global business. Glamel will continue to manage DVF’s day-to-day business, distributing to Greater China. That said, DVF’s CEO Graziano di Boni is bringing operations in-house, and this shift will be complete by the end of 2024.

“When I joined DVF 10 months ago, I was asked to develop a plan for the legacy of the brand,” Di Boni said, as reported in fashionnetwork.com. “Immersing myself into the history of DVF, I found not only the iconic wrap dress that continues to sell after 50 years, but also a vast archive of prints and fabrics that revealed a unique and strong design vocabulary.” 

“Furthermore, I was amazed by the richness and breadth of content material and by the authentic personal relationship multi-generational women have with DVF. All of this is very relevant for today’s digital-first landscape of retail and social media. Regaining control of the design and narrative of our brand was the first necessary step to reimagining our business model for the future.”

Diane von Furstenberg added that “Graziano has spent considerable time this year working with the product and focusing on building the brand strategy. To execute on this strategy, it was necessary that our operations return in-house. I am very excited to support Graziano’s leadership redesigning the company as he surrounds himself with talent that understands the zeitgeist of today and respects and appreciates the richness of the assets of the past.”

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Spicy Victoria

Do all fashion designers eventually produce a reality television show or documentary? Well, not all; however, Victoria Beckham has jumped into the fray with a new Netflix documentary series, “Spice up your life!,” about the Beckham family and Victoria Beckham’s journey to build her fashion empire. (Just a note, “Spice up your life” was the title of a Spice Girls song.)

This Netflix documentary series follows Victoria Beckham throughout her day as she runs her business, manages her family life, and reflects on her fashion journey. There will also be cameos from fashion industry professionals, family, and friends.  “Spice up your life!” is produced by Nicola Howson and Julia Nottingham.

The documentary series is still in production and should air later in 2024.

William S. Gooch

Fashion News Alert: Iconic Supermodels Star in Donna Karan’s Fall 2024 Campaign, SJP Shutters Footwear Collection, and John Varvatos Returns to NYFW

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If you miss legendary supermodels Alek Wek, Amber Valletta, Karen Elson, and Christy Turlington Burns you need to look no further than Donna Karan’s new fall 2024 campaign. Imaan Hammam, Eva Herzigova, Edie Campbell, and Liu Wen round out the supermodels who star in Karan’s fall 2024 campaign.

Photographed by Mikael Jansson, Karan’s ‘Reflections of Women’ fall 2024 fall campaign is inspired by many facets of the modern woman. Styled by Jessica Diehl this fall 2024 campaign features day-to-night garments of an urban landscape which includes, but is not limited to, cinched and knit sweaters, skirts, and dresses, many gleaming with tonal gold metal plating. Similar black and gold hues can be seen across skirts, tops, and outerwear, accented with gold clasps and brushed metallic patterns. Chain-accented belts, smooth leather jackets, and versatile gold jewelry complete the range with an understated edge.

The brand hopes that this multi-generational approach to fashion will give the brand more market traction, making it a go-to brand for that sophisticated urban dweller. In recent years, Donna Karan has lost much of the glamour and prestige the brand had acquired in the 1980s and 90s.

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Welcome back, John

For those who love men’s fashion, your spirits are about get a fashion pick me up.  John Varvatos is returning to the New York Fashion Week (NYFW) calendar for the spring 2025 season.

After several seasons off the calendar, six years to be exact, Varvatos will present his ‘Kiln & Craft’ men’s wear collection on September 6 at NYFW. Known for his men’s wear collections that give a nod to 1960s rock n’ roll fashion and style—tight slacks, moto jackets, fitted suits, and biker boots, Varvatos’ return to NYFW is long awaited.

With a male celebrity base that includes John Legend, Chris Hemsworth, Machine Gun Kelly, 50 Cent, Brad Pitt, Dwayne Johnson, and others, for a couple of decades John Varvatos was one of the go-to men’s wear designers consistently presenting at NYFW. For the past few years, Varvatos, like many men’s wear designers, business has not been good. Owe this downturn to the COVID-19 pandemic and remote work, as well as some other factors. Additionally, American men’s wear designers have experienced a significant shift in their market and consumer demographic.

Still, they soldier on, and the New York fashion market is thrilled that Varvatos is returning to NYFW. The Gods be praised!!

Image courtesy of footwearnews.com

SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker bites the dust

One of the things we loved about Sarah Jessica Parker in “Sex in the City” was her huge collection of Chrisitan Louboutin, Manolo Blahniks, and Jimmy Choo shoes. On the literal heels of Parker giving more traction to Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik shoes, ten years ago Parker founded her own footwear line SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker.

Parker created SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker with the late George Malkemus. The footwear brand focused on classic styles and had have several store locations across New York City.

Well, the era of SJP by Sarha Jessica Parker is over. “After 10 colorful years, SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker has made the difficult decision to close its doors this fall,” said the statement from the brand, as reported in footwearnews.com. “The SJP Collection team expresses enormous gratitude to all of their loyal customers and supporters, as well as all those they’ve worked alongside.”

With a ten-year run, SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker can celebrate staying the course longer than most celebrity brands. Customers can still purchase SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker online; however, stores located in New York City will close on August 25.

—William S. Gooch

Fashion News Alert: Punky Gigi Hadid, David Koma’s New Gig, and Goodbye Fred Segal

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Supermodel Gigi Hadid has gone punk!! That’s right, the supermodel that is the essence of American sportswear has morphed her style to reflect a punk-rock aesthetic. Why this dramatic shift?

Marc Jacob’s new campaign for Heaven in collaboration with designer Dilara Findikoglu which stars Gigi could be the reason. Photographed by Alana O’Herlihy, Hadid dons Jacobs and Findikoglu’s bikinis, shorts, tee shirts, miniskirts, minidresses, and lace-up pants. The collaboration is accented with pins, buckles, and studs that will appeal to fashion’s punk set.

This Jacob/Findikoglu collaboration was inspired by Avril Lavigne, Bikini Kill, and Girlschool. Marc Jacobs’ Heaven brand is a subversive fashion brand that taps into Generation Z’s obsession with 90’s grunge, teenage daydreams, and polysexual motivations. Discover the collection now on MarcJacobs.com.

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A new creative director at Blumarine

David Koma has a new job as the new creative director of Blumarine. After the quick departure of Walter Chiapponi, who only served in the post for four months and creating one collection for the Italian, Koma was tapped for the prestigious Italian womenswear brand.

“David Koma’s aesthetic attracted me right from the start. I am sure that David will be able to interpret Blumarine’s codes to perfection, thanks to his vision and stylistic sensibility, characterized by an overwhelming femininity,” said Marco Marchi in a press release, as reported in fashionnetwork.com.

“Blumarine embodies a unique blend of sensuality, timeless glamour and elegance that I have always admired, and it is an honor to be able to write the next chapter in the brand’s illustrious history,” said David Koma. “The label’s feminine aesthetic deeply resonates with me, making this journey feel incredibly authentic,” he added.

Originally from Tbilisi, Georgia, David Koma studied fine arts in Saint Petersburg, Russia, later moving to study fashion design at Central Saint Martins in London. He was formerly the creative director of MUGLER from 2014 to 2017 and currently has his own eponymous fashion brand.

Blumarine was acquired by holding company Exelite, formerly Eccellenze Italiane, in 2019. Koma will create his first collection from Blumarine for pre-Fall 2025.

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So long, Fred

Jeff Lotman, who acquired Fred Segal stores and e-commerce sites in 2018, has announced the closure of all Fred Segal stores and e-shop. The megastore’s founder and namesake Fred Segal passed away three years ago. The COVID-19 pandemic and a drop in sales has forced the closing of all the Fred Segal Stores.

Founded in 1962 by Fred Segal as a mostly slacks store, originally called Pants America, Fred Segal expanded his original store on Santo Monica Boulevard to Melrose Avenue four years later with a name change to Fred Segal. The Melrose Avenue location became an iconic store and is featured in several movies and television series including “Clueless” and “90201 Melrose.”

When Lotman acquired the Fred Segal Stores in 2018, he hoped to expand the stores to Europe. Fred Segal Home Furnishings is still open in Culver City, California. The Segal family still owns the trademark name, and they hope to open new stores in the future.

William S. Gooch

 

 

Fashion News Alert: Galliano to Leave Margiela, Bella Hadid Controversy, and Vogue’s Olympic Party

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The 2024 Summer Olympics are less than two weeks away, and the fashion industry has joined the ranks of those celebrating this once every four-year hallowed sporting event. The 2024 Summer Olympics takes place in Paris from July 25 to August 11.

Before the opening ceremony on July 25, Vogue is organizing a big party at Fondation Louis Vuitton. Attendees includes a host of celebrities, fashion luminaries, pop stars, well-known athletes, and LVMH’s management team. Some of the luminaries attending this event include Anna Wintour, Serena Williams, Pharrell Williams, Bernard Arnault, Charlize Theron, Rosalia, Omar Sy, and Brian Roberts, CEO of American media conglomerate Comcast NBCUniversal.

“I’m honored to be co-hosting this very special event with Anna Wintour, Mr. Arnault and Brian Roberts,” said Pharrell Williams in a statement, as reported in fashionnetwork.com. “The Olympic Games are a celebration of diversity, humanity and creativity, everything that brings us together as human beings. This great event is a humbling reminder that what brings us together is stronger than what divides us,” he continued.

The event will include an Olympic-themed theme park, featuring interactive installations and games of all kinds inspired by sport, such as table tennis, table football, archery and basketball, devised by Pharrell Williams. Elegant cuisine will be provided by Michelin-starred chef Jean Imbert.

Image courtesy of tmz.com

Bella bye bye

The controversy around supermodel Bella Hadid and Adidas continues. Hadid is the face of Adidas’ Olympic campaign that reimagines the brand’s iconic 1972 running shoe designed for the 1972 Olympics.

Israel has opposed Bella Hadid as the face of this new Adidas campaign because Bella’s father is Palestinian and has been accused of anti-Semitism. Additionally, this new Adidas campaign celebrates the 1972 Olympics, where Palestinian guerillas attacked and killed 11 Israeli athletes at the Olympic village.

“We are aware that links have been made to tragic historical events—however unintentional—and we apologize for any upset or distress this may have caused,” said Adidas in a statement. “It is for this reason that we are revising the campaign. We believe in sport as a unifying force around the world and will continue our efforts to promote diversity and equality in everything we do.”

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Another move for John Galliano

Well, it may almost be over. John Galliano is leaving Maison Martin Margiela. Galliano has been at Margiela for 10 years and Galliano has not renewed his contract, though Margiela which is owned by OTB owner Renzo Rosso has requested Galliano to renew his contract for a few more years.

It has been rumored for several months on Instagram and several social media platforms that Galliano would be leaving Margiela. A spokesperson for OTB stated, “As you know—and it is normal in our industry – there are always a lot of rumors when creative talents are concerned. We never comment on them. All we can say is that relations between John Galliano, Maison Margiela and our group chairman Renzo Rosso, are very good.”

There is much speculation among fashion insiders to where Galliano will next hang his hat, so to speak. There are rumors that Galliano could become creative director at Fendi or Chanel, or even to return to his old stomping ground at Dior.

While at Maison Martin Margiela, Galliano built an impressive body of work with revenue rising 12% in 2023 1o 1.6 billion euros for holding company OTB. Annual sales at Margiela are believed to be above 400 million euros in 2023.

—William S. Gooch

Fashion News Alert: The First Lady’s Magazine Cover, Kate Spade and Heinz Ketchup, and Saks Close to Acquiring Neiman Marcus

Image courtesy of wgme.com

You would have to be living under a rock or in alternate universe if you haven’t been witnessing the media’s commentary on President Joe Biden’s age and assumed decrepit physical state based on his disastrous debate with Donald Trump. With all the brouhaha around Biden’s presidential viability, you would think that is the only news coming out of the White House.

Wrong!! Another White House narrative that is just under the radar is the First Lady Jill Biden August Vogue cover. And this issue comes out just in time for the Democratic Convention in August.

For the August Vogue cover, Jill Biden dons a white Ralph Lauren Collection dress and Irene Neuwirth earrings. Jill Biden is photographed by Norma Jean Roy and interviewed for the August issue by Maya Singer. In the interview with Singer, Jill Biden discusses her husband’s 2024 presidential campaign and her support of women’s initiatives.

Image courtesy of saksfifthavenue.com

Red rules

As you probably know by now, collaborations are a huge deal in the fashion industry. Fashion designers collaborate with everything and everyone from graphic artists, pop stars and celebrities to video game designers.

Perhaps the most unusual fashion collaboration is the recent collaboration between Kate Spade and Heinz. This collaboration combines the Heinz brand’s iconic red and Spade’s colorful, vibrant style based on the boldness of New York City.

“At Kate Spade New York, we believe in exploring the journey of self-expression through style in fun, unexpected ways,” said Jennifer Lyu, SVP and head of design at Kate Spade New York, as reported in fashionnetwork.com

“It’s the thoughtful details that bring this collection with Heinz to life–from the embellishments on the tee and the way our 3D ketchup bag looks just like that classic red and white packet. The playful designs are perfect for all of summer’s special moments, capturing the spirit of the season. I’m excited for customers across generations to experience a little piece of the magic we created with Heinz.”

This collaborative collection will contain totes, pouches, small leather goods, ready to wear tees, footwear, keychains, phone cases, and more. This limited collection will have price points that range from $45 to $398 and will be launched across global markets in China, Europe, Japan, North America, and Southeast Asia.

“Kate Spade New York shares many values with Heinz–from creating products of the highest quality that are expertly crafted by masters and leave no detail untouched, to exhibiting true devotion to our fans. In return, both brands have incredibly loyal fanbases that transcend generations. At Heinz, we love to celebrate the unique and unconventional ways our fans show their love for us, and this collection is the perfect opportunity to do so,” explained Megan Lang, head of global Heinz brand communications and creativity.

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Two are better than one

There is a deal afoot that could merge two of the largest retail stores in the US. Saks Fifth Avenue is close to acquiring Neiman Marcus Group for 2.65 billion dollars. An unnamed entity that is close to the deal has revealed that Amazon.com Inc. and Salesforce Inc. will help facilitate the deal by Saks owner Hudson’s Bay Co.

This deal will include 39 Saks Fifth Avenue stores and 36 stores of the Dallas-based Neiman Marcus, as well as two Bergdorf Goodman stores based in New York City and Saks and Neiman Marcus outlets. The merger of these two megastores will cut costs and boost profits. This deal is the result of negotiations and talks that have been going on between Saks and Neiman Marcus since 2020.

The involvement of Amazon “adds a bit of spice to an otherwise predictable deal,” GlobalData analyst Neil Saunders wrote in a research note. Its stake would make sense, he said, “as it has ambitions to play more heavily in the luxury space and this would give it a toehold, as reported in fashionnetwork.com.”

“The department-store model has been failing because the whole business was designed for a completely different retail environment than what we have now,” Morningstar analyst David Swartz said, as reported in fashionnetwork.com. “Every part of department stores has been challenged by competition.”

Saks Fifth Avenue has more stores on the East Coast with Neiman Marcus stores expanding across the Midwest and western parts of the US. This merger will give the partners in this deal a combined proliferation across the entire US.

William S. Gooch

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