Weekend Fashion News Alert: Hedi Slimane Leaves Saint Laurent, Beyonce’s Athleisure Brand, Chinese Firm Acquires French Fashion Houses, and Janice Dickinson’s Illness

April 3, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Image courtesy of bustle.com

Image courtesy of bustle.com

Beyonce has also jumped into the althleisure wear market. On Thursday, the pop star launched Ivy Park, a 200-piece active wear collection, i a joint venture with British businessman Sir Philip Green, who owns the Topshop fashion chain.

The ‘Beehive” also released a video where she is dancing and singing wearing “Ivy Park” in a park in Houston she played in as a child. “When I have to conquer those things, I still go back to that park. Before I hit the stage, I go back to that park. When it was time for me to give birth, I went back to that park. The park became a state of mind. The park became my strength,” explained Beyonce in a recent fashionmag.com article.

Beyonce with her athlesisure wear clothing line is in good company. In 2013 Kate Hudson founded Fabletics that recently moved to brick and mortar stores. And in 2015 Carrie Underwood launched a collection of athleisure garments, Calia by Carrie Underwood, in collaboration with Dick’s Sporting Goods retail stores.

Image courtesy of cloudfront.net

Image courtesy of cloudfront.net

Heave ho, Hedi

It has been confirmed. Hedi Slimane has officially left Saint Laurent!!

For months, rumors have circulated in fashion circles that Slimane would before the end of the year. On Friday, the Keurig Group announced that the esteemed fashion house would be getting a new creative director, Anthony Vaccarello.

The Keurig Group, which owns many European luxury houses, was fed up with some of the demands of Slimane, and when both parties could not reach compromises on Slimane’s new contract, both parties decided to part ways. Vaccarello’s, 32, style is very similar to Slimane. Vaccarello has a penchant for a rock n’ roll aesthetic, a sexy pared down look and clothes that border on androgynous. Prior to his Saint Laurent appointment, Vaccarello had has own line and served as artistic director of Versus, Versace’s clothing line aimed at young adults.

Image courtesy of nytimes.com

Image courtesy of nytimes.com

The Chinese have it

The Chinese textile company, Shangdong Ruyi has signed a deal where they will acquire controlling interest in three French fashion houses.  The fashion group, Sandro, Maje and Claudie Pierlot (SMCP), is valued at an estimated 1.3 billion euros.

“My sister, Judith Milgrom, and I are delighted to embark on the next phase in the journey of our company alongside Shandong Ruyi Group. Judith and I reaffirm our full commitment to the business and remain focused on our goal: continuing to build the highly desirable brands Sandro, Maje and Claudie Pierlot and further extending their reach. Shandong Ruyi Group, as business with strong values, shares this long-term vision and ambition, and is the right partner for us,” said Evelyne Chetrite, founder and managing director of SMCP.

Under the current agreement, Shangdong Ruyi will keep the current creative and design teams. “By taking on board the expertise of SMCP, a group well-rooted with strong Parisian heritage, we would combine their merits with our existing strength in Asia, in particular China, in order to take both companies forward. Not only are we very excited to be forming a promising partnership with leaders at SMCP and KKR, but we also look forward to supporting SMCP in achieving its long-term objective of becoming a global leader in accessible luxury,” explained Shandong Chairman, Yafu Qiu, in a recent fashionunited.com article.

Image courtesy of huffingtonpost.com

Image courtesy of huffingtonpost.com

Dickinson’s dilemma

Supermodel Janice Dickinson revealed that she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. The 61-year old Dickinson announced her diagnosis in a recent dailymail.co,uk video.

“It’s still quite shocking. You know, I’ve had plastic surgery and I’ve had breast implants and I’ve always been very vocal of what I’ve done, because I tell the truth about everything. As I am right now,” detailed Dickinson.

Dickinson was informed by her doctor two weeks ago that she had early-stage breast cancer. “I’m going to get through this. You betcha, kiddo,” she said. “And I’ll be just fine. This is not a pity party. I’m Janice Dickinson. I’m going to stick around for a long, long time.”

—William S. Gooch

Weekend Fashion News Alert: Ava DuVernay’s “Battle of Versailles,” Hailey Who?, and American Eagle’s Body-Positive Men’s Underwear Launch

March 27, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Image courtesy of blackworldcinema.com

Image courtesy of blackworldcinema.com

The “Versailles 73’” documentary and 2015 book “Battle of Versailes” by Robin Givhan is to turned into a film on HBO. “Selma” director Ava DuVernay has been slated to direct the HBO movie.

According to deadline.com, “The movie will chronicle the November 28, 1973 fashion show that took place at the Palace of Versailles. A fundraiser for the restoration of King Louis XIV’s palace, it pitted the top five French designers (Yves Saint Laurent, Hubert de Givenchy, Pierre Cardin, Emanuel Ungaro, and Marc Bohan of Christian Dior) against five then-unknown Americans (Oscar de la Renta, Bill Blass, Halston, Stephen Burrows, and Anne Klein, who brought along her then-assistant Donna Karan) in front of an audience of the world’s social elite. By the end of the night, American fashion would be born, racial barriers broken, and the industry would be left forever transformed.”

The 1973 “Battle of Versailles” also saw the emergence of black top models Pat Cleveland, Alva Chinn, Billie Blair, Norma Jean Darden, and Bethann Hardison.

DuVernay will collaborate with Michael Starrbury on the script. The release date has yet been announced by HBO.

Image courtesy of ae.org

Image courtesy of ae.org

Real men

The American consumer has witnessed the “real people” approach for scores of women’s brand. Now, American Eagle have stepped on board.

American Eagles “Aerie Man” is the brand’s underwear line targeting men with real bodies. “Aerie Man means absolutely no retouching and a new, body-positive approach to men’s underwear,” says the brand.

Aerie Man is a “collection of men’s underwear that provide the perfect foundation for your busy and athletic lifestyle. No matter your style, find it here in materials that keep you cool, collected and real, all day long.”

All this comes on the heels of IMG Models launching its Brawn division that features plus-size male models. Aerie Man has a selection of men’s underwear styles from boxers to briefs with product under $20.

Tommy Hilfiger Denim spring 2016 campaign image courtesy of tumblr.com

Tommy Hilfiger Denim spring 2016 campaign image courtesy of tumblr.com

Hailey not Hallie

Who is Hailey Baldwin, you might ask? Well, if you are up on top models, you know that Hailey is he niece of actor, Alex Baldwin.

 

Hailey has been modeling since she was 16 and recently signed a global contract with IMG Models.  In 2014 she appeared in Tatler, and in 2015 she appeared in Teen Vogue, Miss Vogue, and Love magazine. Hailey landed the cover of Wonderland’s April/May 2015 edition, and the cover of L’Officiel Netherlands’s issue of the same month.

For the 2016 shows Hailey walked for Hailey Baldwin has Tommy Hilfiger, Philipp Plein, and Sonia Rykiel. And, she currently has Ralph Lauren’s ‘Denim & Supply’ spring 2016 campaign alongside Thiago Soares. Hailey Baldwin has 4.2 Instagram followers.

—William S. Gooch

Weekend Fashion News Alert: Vanessa Williams’ New Fashion Line, Lord & Taylor’s Instagram Snafu, Kanye’s Yeezys Sell for 10K, and Elliot Gant Transitions

March 20, 2016 by 1 Comment

 

Image courtesy of Twitter

Image courtesy of Twitter

Another celebrity has joined the fashion fray. Vanessa Williams of “Ugly Betty” fame has launched her first fashion line, “V by Vanessa Williams,” for the Evine shopping network.

“This collection is a combination of me as a professional, me as a mother, and me as what I wear for comfort around the house,” explained Williams in a PeopleStyle article. “It’s your urban look, it’s your suburban look, it’s your casual look, and it’s your glam look, all in one.” All this translates into looks for $100 or under.

“My friends and I complain about bra fat and loose arms. We’ve got a couple areas that we want to cover. Gone are the days when you’re 20 and you can just wear a little spaghetti strap thing and everything’s up and perky by itself. I’ve gone through my 30s, 40s, 50s and my body keeps changing with every decade. Yes, I’ve got bra fat and love handles. It’s a constant struggle. So, my view is don’t give up the fight, keep it moving, embrace where your body is going, and then dress accordingly.”

Sizes for “V by Vanessa Williams” go up to a size 24 and 26. The line debuted on evine.com on March 19.

Lord & Taylor dress image courtesy of adweek.com

Lord & Taylor dress image courtesy of adweek.com

Oh, the shame of it all!!

All tongues are wagging over the recent Lord & Taylor’s Instagram faux pas. And the situation appears to be getting more encumbered as the days progress.

It appears that Lord & Taylor paid 50 Instagram fashion aficionados that have a huge social media following $4000 per image to promote a particular dress. The Instagram influencers were to take a photo of themselves in the garment and post the image on their Instagram page. Reportedly, the images reached over 11.4 Instagram users in two days.

So, you may say what is wrong with that? Doesn’t one hand wash the other? Not exactly.

According to guidelines set by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the FTC clearly state that all paid advertisement must be identified as a paid endorsement. All this comes in the wake of recent reports that bloggers with a huge social media presence are being paid up to $10,000 per image to sit in the front row at fashion weeks and post images from certain collections.

Lord & Taylor denies that they’ve done anything wrong, even though they had to approve each image that was posted and Instagram posters had to tag Lord & Taylor’s Instagram account in their post, and use the hashtags Lord & Taylor provided.

By the way, the Lord & Taylor asymmetrical paisley dress in question sold out!! Hmm, it worked.

Image courtesy of sneakernews.com

Image courtesy of sneakernews.com

Is the price right?

Yeezy boost for $10,000. That’s right,  $10,000.

Kanye West’s Yeezy Boost, made in collaboration with Adidas, are selling on eBay for up to $10,000. The shoes originally retail starting at $225. However, Kanye fans are purchasing the shoes at retail value and reselling on eBay for much, much more.

The bids on eBay on March 13 for $238; however, by March 15 the bids had escalated to $2500 and now peaking at $10,000.

West released a recent statement on Twitter that Adidas would be making over 1 million Yeezy Boost in 2016. I guess it will be a Yeezy Boost bonanza!!

Elliot Gant and brother Robert image courtesy of NYTimes.com

Elliot Gant and brother Robert image courtesy of NYTimes.com

Goodbye Elliot Gant

Elliot Gant co-founder of Gant has passed away at the age of 89. The Gant brand became a popular menswear brand, particularly among Ivy Leaguers in the 1950s and 60s because of the particular detail found in its shirts.

Founded in 1949 with his brother Marty, the Gant shirting company was influenced by the Ivy League style of Yale University, and expanded upon that style by introducing bold colors and different fabrications. Sold to Consolidated Foods in 1968, the Gant brothers stayed with the brand and transitioned the mostly shirting company into an All-American sportswear brand.

Its first American sportswear collection was produced in 1971 and Gant Rugger was introduced in 1974. Later, accessories and trousers were added. The company is currently owned by Maus Freres.

Elliot Gant is survived by his wife Ina (Romanoff) Gant, daughter, Carol Gant Leventhal, son Bernard Gant and his wife Hallie Krechevsky, his five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

—William S. Gooch

Weekend Fashion News: Alber Elbaz Replaced, Caitlyn Jenner’s New Gig, Jeremy Scott’s Brand of Fashion Fun, and See Now, Buy Now Divides Fashion Industry

March 13, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Image courtesy of frontiersmedia.com

Image courtesy of frontiersmedia.com

Though the second season of Caitlyn Jenner’s reality television show,“I Am Cait,” may be seen as a bust to many entertainment pundits, that is not keeping the fashion industry from lining to get on the Caitlyn popularity wagon.

H&M has recently named Caitlyn Jenner as the new face of its fall 2016 Sports campaign. H&M Sport launched in 2014 and consists of active wear and accessories for women, men, and children.

“For H&M it is important to show diversity and a range of personalities in everything we do. We have picked Caitlyn Jenner, one of the world’s most celebrated athletes, as part of this H&M Sports campaign because we want to illustrate that everything is possible—in sports, and in life. It is a collection of performance sportswear made to celebrate individuality and self-belief,” detailed and H&M spokesperson.

As Bruce Jenner, the 66-year old transgendered Caitlyn Jenner was the 1976 Olympic decathlon champion.

Image courtesy of fashionone.com

Boucha Jarrar image courtesy of fashionone.com

Lanvin’s new boss

The embattled House of Lanvin has hired Bouchra Jarrar to replace long-time Creative Director Alber Elbaz. Jarrar launched her eponymous couture brand in 2010 and since 2013 has been a member of the prestigious club of Haute Couture designers. Jarrar’s design aesthetic is highlight by monochromatic themes of black and white neutral tones and feminine tuxedo jackets.

Lanvin announced that Jarrar would shut down her eponymous label to focus entirely on the House of Lanvin. It is also estimated that Lanvin will need about $100 million euros to elevate the brand to the likes of big Europeans brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Valentino.

Jeremy Scott's fall 2016 images courtesy of artoffashion.com

Jeremy Scott’s fall 2016 images courtesy of artoffashion.com

Jeremy Scott’s house of fun

My role in fashion is to bring fun,” says fashion’s enfant terrible Jeremy Scott. And if you’ve ever been to any of Jeremy Scott’s or Moschino’s fashion shows you know that fun is the name of the game.

This weekend of “CNN Style,” Scott commented on brand, fashion, his friendship with Supermodel Karlie Kloss, and fun. “My role in fashion is to bring some fun, to generate excitement, to push the envelope and always go a little bit further. People are so serious in the fashion world. There’s nothing you can do about it, it’s how it is. But if for 10 minutes, the time for a show, we could forget about all of these woes, I feel it would be a nice gift.”

“CNN Style” followed Jeremy Scott during his New York Fashion Week: The Shows fall 2016 show and the fashion marathon that ensues.

Monique Lhuillier fall 2016 images courtesy of papermothballvintage.com

Monique Lhuillier fall 2016 images courtesy of papermothballvintage.com

The surveys says

The Boston Consulting Group Fashion Week study recently released by the CFDA has caused divisions in the fashion industry on both sides of the Atlantic. While some European brands like Burberry support the “See Now, Buy Now” business model, other Europeans brands feel that business model would be destructive to their creative process.

The recently released study by The Boston Consulting Group concluded that fashion brands were loosing retail value because consumers had to wait up to six months for clothing they had already seen from current runway collections via live streaming and social media. Burberry is response to consumer demand had their fall 2016 collection available days after their fall 2016 runway show.

“If we are Instagramming, live-streaming and showing the collections, we can’t expect a customer and a consumer to tie in with a traditional kind of calendar,” Burberry Chief Executive Christopher Bailey said.

Monique Lhuillier tried out the “See Now, Buy Now” business model by releasing five garments from her fall 2016 show a few days later. And Mara Hoffman released several items from her fall 2016 show during NYFW: The Shows and witnessed almost all the items sell out.

Still, some European brands are not convinced. “I think that it is not for me, it is not for (products of) excellence,” Ermmano Scervino told Reuters. “We have long (designing) time frames. I am not interested.”

“When you want to make a collection creative, you need the time, you need to study the fabrics, specific research,” Carlo Capasa, head of Italy’s national chamber of fashion, said in a recent fashionmag.com article. Dior’s Chief Executive Sidney Toledano concurs, “that would mean we’d manufactured it six months ago and put it in the fridge … When you put a collection in the shops the following day, that means that the selection from the runway has already been made—you’re taking a risk.”

—William S. Gooch

Fashion News Alert: America’s Next Top Model Returns, Siriano Launches Handbag Line, Vietnam Factory Workers Strike, and Major French Fashion Houses Give a Negative Nod to ‘See Now, Buy Now’

February 24, 2016 by 1 Comment
Image courtesy of dekhnews.com

Image courtesy of dekhnews.com

Just when it seemed that America’s Next Top Model (ANTM) would end after a successful 22-cycle run, VH1 announced that it would bring ANTM back without Tyra Banks as the host.

Banks, will continue to be affiliated with ANTM as one of its executive producers while fielding other business opportunities. “After creating an incredible, global brand, I am beyond excited to have the show reborn,” Banks told Deadline. “I will continue as executive producer, but must turn my attention to new business endeavors, so I want to find a new host. I’m pumped to identify that person and bring back the show. Top Model fans, you demanded that the show come back, and VH1 answered the call. Get ready for a fierce-a-fied rebirth!”

ANTM without Tyra Banks, hmm, we shall see?

Image courtesy of beautimode.com

Image courtesy of beautimode.com

Consumers want it now?

There has been much talk in fashion retail circle of making garments from recent collections immediately available after consumers have seen those collections online or during live streaming of said fashion shows. Even the CFDA has hired The Boston Consulting Group to look into the viability of garments immediately available due to consumer demand. This fast availability will eliminate the time gap between fashion seasons and the presence of garments in department stores; a gap that can expand over four or five months.

This proposed change could also affect the timing of fashion weeks and the availability of luxury fabrics and textiles. And to this readjustment of fashion weeks, the esteemed French houses of Chanel, Dior, Hermes, and Saint Laurent have chorused a resounding, ‘No.’

“Reversing the cycle and starting off with a commercial presentation would kill creativity,” declared to daily paper Le Figaro the French Fashion Federation’s President, Ralph Toledano. Kerig CEO, François-Henri Pinault, also contends that early availability will stifle creativity and that it brands’—Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, Gucci— consumers have never complained about the fashion calendar.

This speculation all comes on the heels of Tom Ford and Burberry making garments from their fall 2016 collections immediately available to consumers after their fall 2016 runway presentations. Many fashion insiders also feel that immediate availability will eliminate imitations from mega retail discount brands such as H&M and ZARA.

Still, readjustment is a huge project, and many forces within the fashion industry are not convinced that speedy availability will increase sales. The French Fashion Federation contends based on a recent survey that “no customer has ever complained for not being able to buy in-store a product seen on the web.”

Image courtesy of thanhnienews.com

Image courtesy of thanhnienews.com

Vietnamese factory workers strike

While the Republicans battle it out over which candidate should receive the Republican nomination, 17,000 Vietnamese factory workers battle factory owners that produce Nike and Adidas products. Vietnamese workers are striking over new company policies that lower salaries over missed days of work.

Taiwanese-based garment maker Pou Chen Corp. has put in place new labor practices that deduct wages and bonuses from workers who miss work with or without management permission. According Doan Van Day, deputy chairman of the government-controlled trade union in Dong Nai, only 20 percent of the 20,000 workers at said factory are still working while negotiations around new labor practices are being discussed.

Image courtesy of fashionmag.com

Image courtesy of fashionmag.com

Siriano expands his empire

Christian Siriano is prolific. There is no doubt about that. From his own signature, ready-to-wear collections, his shoe line for Payless, a clothing line for Lane Bryant, Christian Siriano’s has expanded his name recognition beyond winning “Project Runway” to being a recognizable American brand.

Add to this market proliferation, Siriano’s new handbag collection. Recognizing that fashion should be inclusive and wearable, Siriano’s handbag line also encompasses accessibility through price points that range from $98–$350. “That’s actually what jumped off the bag line, wanting to give retailers overseas something at a more accessible price point,” said Siriano in a recent fashionmag.com article.

Christian Siriano handbags will be available online at the designer’s website, as well as on Bloomingdales.com and Farfetch.com.

—William S. Gooch

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weekend Fashion News Alert: David Beckham’s New Bodywear Collection, Barbie Goes Curvy, And Kanye West’s NYFW Extravaganza

January 31, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Image courtesy of designntrend.com

Image courtesy of designntrend.com

Big, bold and brash and three adjectives that could be used to describe Kanye West. His style is bold, his words are brash and now his fashion show will be big.

As reported in Fashion Reverie’s last fashion news alert, Kanye will be renting out Madison Square Garden for his February 11 New York Fashion Week show. And, the ticket price will be steep!!

Now, for those who have attended NYFW in the past, NYFW is an industry event and admission is by invitation only!! Rarely, do designers/brands charge admission. But, we are talking about Kanye here and as we all know, he breaks the rules. Especially, when financial gain is involved.

Though West will be debuting his new album, “Waves,” he will not be performing at this event. “He’s not performing. It’s not a concert. He’ll premiere his new album, so it’s sort of like an album preview party and fashion preview,” a source told pagesix.com.

Image courtesy of usatoday.com

Image courtesy of usatoday.com

A more inclusive Barbie

A Barbie with curves, yeah, right? Jump back, it is now true!! Barbie is no longer only blond, blue-eyed and very slender.

For the past three to four decades Barbie has gone beyond the beauty archetype that persisted when she first premiered in 1959. However, the new and improved Barbie embraces race, diversity and curviness. All this is an effort to pump up sales and appeal to consumers who have moved away from toys to digital games.

We are excited to literally be changing the face of the brand,” Evelyn Mazzocco, senior vice president and global general manager of the Barbie brand, said in a statement published in fashionmag.com. “These new dolls represent a line that is more reflective of the world girls see around them—the variety in body type, skin tones and style allows girls to find a doll that speaks to them.

The new Barbie comes in seven skin tones, 22 eye colors, 24 hairstyles, and new clothes and accessories. She also has a bigger bust, thigh, and rear.

Image courtesy of H&M

Image courtesy of H&M

Another Beckham/H&M collaboration

David Beckham again collaborates with mega retailer, H&M. This time it is on a bodywear collection.

Everything about my Bodywear for H&M has to be authentic. If I wouldn’t wear it then it doesn’t go in the collection,” said Beckham in a statement.

“I want to choose a range that has great quality and design but is affordable. I’m always trying to evolve the Bodywear collection, and include classic pieces like sweaters and track pants that I would wear out or at home.”

The new collection of loungewear includes crewneck sweatshirts with side zippers, box-cut T-shirts, skinny sweatpants, and swim trunks. Interestingly, the collection launches in H&M stores on February 4, the last day of New York Fashion Week: Men’s.

—William S. Gooch

 

 

Fashion News Alert: Justin, Kendall, and Calvin, La Perla’s New Creative Director, Kanye Debuts Album during NYFW, and Dwayne Johnson Partners with Under Armour

January 27, 2016 by Leave a Comment

 

Image courtesy of tumblr.com

Image courtesy of tumblr.com

Does anything come between Justin Bieber and Kendall Jenner’s calvins? Apparently not, especially if you are the face on Calvin Klein’s new global underwear campaign. Using the hashtag #mycalvins, the ad’s tagline is “What do you do in yours?”

Tyrone Lebon photographed this new global underwear campaign. Other models for the campaign includes Kendrick Lamar, KA twigs, Joey Bada$$, Fetty Wap, Abbey Lee Kershaw, and Sung Jin Park.

Image courtesy of fastcodesign.com

Image courtesy of fastcodesign.com

Another Kanye NYFW stunt

Kanye West is always full of surprises. And that is what keeps him in the press with tongues wagging.

The latest Kayne media blitz is the announcement that he will debut his new album during New York Fashion Week: The Shows (NYFWS). According to billboard.com, West will release his seventh album “Swish to Waves” during his Yeezy fashion presentation at Madison Square Garden on February 11.

The ten-track album will include previously released tracks “Real Friends” and “No More Parties in L.A.” featuring Kendrick Lamar. This not the first time Kanye has released music during his runway/presentations during New York Fashion Week (NYFW). “Fade” and “Wolves” debuted at previous NYFW seasons.

Image courtesy of aloalobahia.com

Image courtesy of aloalobahia.com

La Perla appoints Pedro Lourenco

Pedro Lourenco has been appointed the creative director of La Perla with his collection for the esteemed brand being fall/winter 2016. Lourenco will be responsible for lingerie, sleepwear, beachwear, loungewear, accessories, menswear, as well as the Atelier collection.

“I am fascinated by the early days of the brand: a small atelier focusing on corsetry made to the highest standards and designed to enhance the beauty of women. The founder, Ada Masotti, a visionary woman, was aware of the fact that fashion was constantly being revolutionized and lingerie had to change with it. In her universe, modernity walked hand-in-hand with femininity and functionality did not preclude creativity. She changed the way the world thinks of lingerie. I am amazed by the philosophy she created and I want to bring it back today,” details Lorenco.

“The talent, style and creative maturity of Pedro Lourenço are the reasons of our choice, ”says La Perla Chairman Silvio Scaglia. “His approach and style relate to our founding values and reflect the path overtaken by the brand in the last two years. The sartorial excellence and sensibility for the female body combined with a quest for innovation are pillars of La Perla and match the skills and talent of this young designer. La Perla, together with Pedro Lourenço, will blur the boundaries between lingerie, beachwear and outerwear, extending its natural focus on sensuality, elegance and preciousness”.

Image courtesy of pinterest

Image courtesy of pinterest

“The Rock” rocks Under Armour

Dwayne Johnson, formally known as “The Rock,” under this partnership will play an important role in the creation of footwear, apparel, and accessories. One of the first products to come out of this partnership will be a Rock-inspired backpack and duffle bag that will launch on the Under Armour website and at select brand houses in the coming weeks.

Johnson will also play an integral part in the promotion of Under Armour’s Connected Fitness platforms that recently debuted the Under Armour HealthBox and Record applications. Other recent Under Armour celebrity partnerships include Stephen Curry, Tom Brady, Cam Newton, Misty Copeland, Jordan Spieth, Lindsey Vonn, Andy Murray, and Michael Phelps.

—William S. Gooch

Weekend Fashion News Alert: Wintour Hosts Hillary Clinton Fundraiser, Pharrell Williams’ Fashion Buyback, Jenner Sisters Go Retro, and China’s Online Audience Nears 700 Million

January 24, 2016 by 1 Comment
Image courtesy of fortune.com

Image courtesy of fortune.com

With Hillary Clinton, according to some polls, 30 points behind Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders leading up to the Iowa and New Hampshire Democratic primaries, the Clintons have pulled out all the stops, enlisting the help of Anna Wintour.

This is not the first at the Clinton fundraising rodeo for Wintour. In 2015, Anna hosted an event in Paris along with Clinton aide Huma Abedin at the residence of American financier James Cook. The Paris fundraising event’s purpose was to tap into wealthy Americans who live abroad.

The current fundraising event, which takes place on February 23, the last day of London Fashion Week, will be co-hosted by Wintour and Chelsea Clinton. The event will be held at the home of Net-a-Porter founder Natalie Massent with tickets costing $500 for guests and $1000 for supporters of Hillary Clinton.

Now, who says fashion is not political?

Image courtesy of BBC Miami/fashionunited.com

Image courtesy of BBC Miami/fashionunited.com

Pharell’s fashion empire

Pharrell Williams continues to rack up the credits when it comes to his investment in the fashion industry. Recently, Williams bought back Billionaires Boys Club from apparel conglomerate, Iconix Brand Group. Pharrell Williams co-founded Billionaires Boys Club in 2005.

According to wwd.com, Williams and his partners BBC Miami repurchased a 50 percent stake in BBC Ice Cream LLC, the legal entity of the Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream streetwear brands. Billionaire Boys Club in sold in stores and boutiques in the US, London, and Tokyo.

“The sale of our interest in BBC and Ice Cream was a strategic decision to rationalise smaller noncore assets in the Iconix portfolio, allowing us to focus our time and resources on the larger cash flow generating brands. BBC and Ice Cream represented less than 1 percent of our total business,” expressed an Iconix spokeswoman.

Image courtesy of yibada.com

Image courtesy of yibada.com

Booming China

China now has the world’s largest online population. On Friday, reports revealed that China’s online population is now nearing 700 million, even though Beijing imposes strict controls on online content.

According to the China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC), in December 2015 China’s online population stood at 688 million with 90% of the population accessing the Internet through mobile phones. This number represents almost half of China’s population.

Though the Chinese government attempts to block online access to websites with political they deem inappropriate and social media companies heavily monitor and censor user-generated content, these restrictions have not hindered China’s online audience growth. All this growth fuels China’s billion-dollar e-commerce sites, like Jack Ma’s Alibaba.

Image courtesy of thegloss.com

Image courtesy of thegloss.com

70s babes

Kendall and Kylie Jenner’s fashion domination continues to gather seemingly unstoppable momentum. And this time they have delved into retro fashion.

PacSun, for the second year running have employed the Jenner Sister as the face of their spring 2016 collection. The PacSun x Kendall and Kylie collection pulls inspiration from the early 1970s evidenced in vintage floral prints, flared jeans, and soft hues.

Price points for the PacSun/Jenner collaboration range from $22.95 to $64.95 and is available at PacSun stores nationwide and on the PacSun website.

—William S. Gooch

Fashion News Alert: Ariana Grande’s New Fragrance, Grace Coddington Bids Adieu, Sophie Loren’s New Campaign, FABLife Bites the Dust, and the NFL Bespoke Footballs

January 20, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Image courtesy of PR News Foto/LUXE Brands

Image courtesy of PR News Foto/LUXE Brands

Ariana Grande has a new fragrance, but she didn’t come up with the fragrance by herself. Grande created the unisex fragrance, “Frankie by Ariana Grande” with her actor brother Frankie. “Frankie by Ariana Grande” is set to launch on Valentine’s Day.

“I really love how it smells … it’s energetic, sexy and so addictive,” says Ariana in a fashionmag.com article. “We love the bright silver metallic bottle … now everyone can shine bright like a Frankie!”

“I absolutely love Ari and was thrilled with the idea of creating an original scent with my amazing sister, Ariana. We wanted to spice it up for Valentine’s Day and come out with a new fragrance for all. Yes! Him, her and everyone can spray all day and share the love! And I’m obsessed with this scent … it has a fresh, playful and sexy little personality … Now you can shine bright like a Frankie and smell bright like a Grande!,” explains Ariana’s brother, Frankie.

“Frankie by Ariana Grande” contains fruity and musky notes. Created in conjunction with Luxe Brands, “Franke by Ariana Grande” also contains notes of pink pepper, pear, apricot, wild orchid, cedar wood, sandalwood, and sugar crystals.

Image courtesy of styleblazer.com

Image courtesy of styleblazer.com

Gracefully bowing out

Grace Coddington has resigned as the Creative Director of American Vogue. After 30 years at American Vogue, preceded by over a decade at British Vogue, Coddington has decided to relinquish her position.

“I’m not running away from Vogue, because it has opened so many doors. But it will be nice to collaborate, and nice to go out [and] give talks to people. It’s just another approach. I’m certainly not going into retirement. I don’t want to sit around,” explained Coddington.

Grace Coddington will continue to work at American Vogue as creative director-at-large and will produce four editorials a year.

Image courtesy of hollywoodreporter.com

Image courtesy of hollywoodreporter.com

She still has it

Who says youth is the only thing that fashion sells? Veteran actress and international icon Sophia Loren and Dolce and Gabbana are proving otherwise.

The Oscar-winning actress has been chosen by Dolce & Gabbana for their spring campaign, ‘Rosa Excelsa.’ This is not the first time Sophia Loren has a part of a D&G campaign. In September, the ‘Sophia Loren N°1 lipstick’ was revealed.

Sophia Loren will be featured in a series of video clips that highlight two generations of Italian families. Loren will star as a mother of five sons who are restoring their generational family property to his Renaissance glory.

Image courtesy of wwd.com

Image courtesy of wwd.com

Football glam

Have you ever wanted a fashionable, bespoke football? Well, if you have deep pocket, you could have one the 50 bespoke footballs designed by designers in collaboration with the NFL and the CFDA.

“We are pleased to partner with the NFL once again on this creative endeavor, which highlights CFDA Members unique talents and passion for creativity while giving back to youth and important fundraising initiatives,” said Adam Roth, Director of Strategic Partnerships at the CFDA in a fashionmag.com article. “With our collaboration, the NFL offers a unique take on the iconic football, particularly for women who care about fashion and also love the game.”

Some of the designers who created these one-of-a-kind bespoke footballs include, but are not limited to, Kenneth Cole, Prabal Gurung, Rachel Zoe, Rebecca Minkoff, Betsey Johnson, Tanya Taylor, Siki Im, Alice+Olivia, Rag & Bone, Billy Reid, Robert Geller, Mark McNairy, Michael Bastian, Orley, Veronica Beard, and Shinola among others. And true to form, many of the bespoke footballs are embellished with pearls, chains, metals, and a variety of fabrications and textures.

The bespoke on now on sale on the NFL website January 20 through February 14. Proceeds from the auction go to NFL charities.

FABLife_10news

Image courtesy of 10news.com

“FABLife” flatlines

Things have not been going according to play for Tyra Banks since the cancellation of “America’s Next Top Model” (ANTM).

ANTM ended after 22 cycles in December and Banks also announced that show be leaving “FabLife” as co-host but would stay on as the talk show’s producer. On Wednesday it was announced that “FABLife” was cancelled mid-season.

The cancellation of “FABLife” was not totally unexpected because of low ratings and huge turnover in the behind-the-scene-staff with over 30% of original staffers leaving the show.  The “FABLife” featured co-hosts, Chrissy Teigen, Joe Zee, Leah Ashley, and Lauren Makk. The “FABLife” will continue to broadcast through April 2016.

—William S. Gooch

 

 

 

Weekend Fashion News Alert: Jared Leto’s New Gig, American Apparel Rejects Offer, Another Spring 2016 Campaign for Kendall Jenner, and Tiffany & Co. Documentary

January 17, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Images courtesy of Wetherly Group

Images courtesy of Wetherly Group

This is a good year in fashion for Academy Award–winner Jared Leto. In December of 2015, he was named the face of Gucci’s Guilty fragrance.

Now, Leto has another fashion job. Leto is the new face of the 2016 Carrera Eyewear campaign. Carrera, an Italian lifestyle eyewear brand, is celebrating its 60th Anniversary with a new “Maverick” collection.

“I’ve known of Carrera since I was a kid,” says Leto, “and when I came across the Maverick project I was immediately connected to it as it talks about people that are brave, bold, that take risks, the wild horses, the people that are not afraid to fail, the type of people who have inspired my whole life.”

”I am enthusiastic about this collaboration and about Jared’s commitment to this project,” says Massimo Pozzetti, Global General Manager of Carrera. “Carrera chose him because he perfectly embodies the boldness and spontaneity of the new Maverick collection and with great joy we found out that he was already a follower of the brand.”

The international advertising campaign will launch worldwide starting February 2016.

Image courtesy of PMK BNC

Image courtesy of PMK BNC

Diamonds are forever

On February 18, jewelry fans will have the opportunity to watch “Crazy About Tiffany’s,” an independent documentary on the brand’s storied history, its unbeknownst impact on pop culture, and unique insights from celebrities. This incredible documentary that features Jessica Biel, Katie Couric, Rachel Zoe, and filmmaker Baz Luhrmann will be available on Tugg, the web-based platform that allows consumers to bring movies to their own local theater for fan or group screenings.

“After three years of being afforded a rare glimpse behind the scenes at Tiffany, I’m thrilled to get this film out there, and because the Tiffany reach is so vast, I’m grateful that Gravitas Ventures allows for distribution channels to reach those who share my curiosity about such an iconic New York institution,” explains “Crazy About Tiffany’s” Director Michael Miele.

“Crazy About Tiffany’s” will also be released in select theaters in the US and Canada on February 19.

Image courtesy of fortune.com

Image courtesy of fortune.com

American Apparel says no

Earlier in the week the financially strapped American Apparel was offered a $300 million dollar bid from a group investors who wanted to bring back ousted founder Dov Charney. Charney was fired from American Apparel in December. The $300 million dollar proposal, which came from Hagan Capital Group and Silver Creek Capital Partners, includes $90 million of new equity and a $40 million term loan, as well as business strategies from Charney.

The American Apparel board rejected the proposal. However, sources contend that American Apparel is open to a revised proposal.

Image courtesy of fashionmag.com

Image courtesy of fashionmag.com

Kendall proliferation

Kendall Jenner has landed yet another campaign. And Mango is the lucky brand.

Kendall is the face of Mango’s “Tribal Spirit” spring 2016 campaign. “Tribal Spirit” represents the brand’s new emphasis on digital campaigns over it annual catalog that the brand is phasing out.

Mango plans to release a new digital campaign each month with a beautiful model fronting each campaign that will represent a monthly trend. All this comes on the heels of the Spanish retailer announcing it will not be participating in Barcelona Fashion Week.

—William S. Gooch

 

 

 

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