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Articles by Penny Robins
Pierpaolo Piccioli to step down
Apparently it is a week of momentous departures in the ever-evolving realm of fashion. Days after Dries van Noten revealed he would be exiting his namesake brand, it has now been revealed that Pierpaolo Piccioli will also be stepping down as creative director of Valentino, a label he has served over the course of 25 years. It wasn’t until 2016, however, when Piccioli became the sole creative director of the Italian luxury brand.
LN-CC reopens London store after four years
As the shake-out in the UK luxury sector — both in-store and online — continues, there’s finally some good news as a concept store that closed in March 2020 due to Covid is finally reopening. The reborn LN-CC one-of-a-kind store on Shacklewell Lane, East London, debuts on 23 March with a completely new design as it faces up to a very different market to the one it exited four years ago.
Shoe Carnival Q4 sales drop but outlook remains positive
Footwear group Shoe Carnival has revealed its fourth quarter operating results, a period in which it experienced a 3.6 percent drop in net sales to 280.2 million dollars, yet a performance that was at the higher end of its expectations. Comparable store sales for the company also fell in line with forecasts, declining 9.4 percent due to “soft trends prior to the December holiday period and weather disruptions in January”.
Sephora to withdraw from South Korea
Translated by Cassidy STEPHENS Published Mar 22, 2024 Sephora is continuing to rationalise its operations in Asia. After exiting the Taiwanese market last May, the LVMH group’s selective perfume chain is preparing to leave South Korea due to strong local competition. Sephora South Korea has announced via social networks that it will be gradually withdrawing from the country from May 6, 2024.
Reviewed: Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
Mascara is the one makeup item I have the most difficulty with. Because my lashes are so straight, I’ve always found it hard to achieve that coveted “doe-eyed” look that other people with more cooperative lashes experience. They’re not too stubborn; my length is decent, but I wish they had a little more oomph! I’ve had lash extensions in the past, and am spoiled by the “effortless” glam they deliver with absolutely zero effort on my part.
The Buckle’s SVP, women’s merchandising exits
Lifestyle retailer Buckle has announced that its senior vice president, women’s merchandising, Kelli Molczyk, has stepped down from her role to “pursue other opportunities”. Molczyk had first joined Buckle in 1999 and had served in a number of roles in the company’s women’s merchandising team over the course of her 25-year career.
Ralph Lauren planning Fall 2024 collection show on April 29 in NYC
Ralph Lauren has revealed plans to stage his next show in New York, the latest catwalk display by the legendary American designer to be staged outside the city’s official runway season. See catwalk Laurent will present his Fall 2024 collection show on April 29. The location has not been announced so far.
Mike Ashley seeks injunction against Newcastle United over replica kit deal
Frasers Group owner Mike Ashley is seeking an injunction against Newcastle United Football Club (NUFC) regarding a disagreement over the distribution of the club’s replica kits. Ashley, through his group’s portfolio company Sports Direct, has filed the claim to the Competition Appeal Tribunal, in which he alleged that the club had “abused its dominant position in the market” by refusing to allow the sportswear retailer to sell replica shirts.
Reviewed by Editors: Tronque's Line of Luxury Bodycare
(Image credit: Tronque) Welcome to Deep Reviews—your one-stop destination to discover the absolute best products and brands the beauty industry has to offer. The Who What Wear staffers you already know and trust will research, test, and review the market’s most sought-after and buzzed-about products to see which formulas (of the hundreds up for consideration) are worth your hard-earned money and attention.
Copenhagen Fashion Week secures funding, to partner with mentoring programme
As its influence continues to grow among the fashion world, Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW) has now announced that it is the recipient of a supportive funding that will focus on implementing strategic partnerships linked to the event’s Sustainability Requirements. The funding is being provided via a shared grant pool of the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which are recognising the fashion week for its “ambitious work within the global fashion sector”.
34 Monaco-Inspired Nordstrom Items to Shop This Spring
I had never been to Monaco before, but when I finally visited, it was everything I thought it would be and more. I flew from Los Angeles to Monte Carlo to spend a little more than 48 hours in the capital of the municipality, and even though the trip was short, I feel like I got a full sense of the timeless style there.
‘In the face of AI, humans must continue to provide emotion’
The face of the fashion industry continues to change, and with it come new challenges that put to test the well-established systems already at play. It is these imminent obstacles that FashionUnited spoke to Marcella Wartenbergh about. The CEO of the Spanish-based multinational, All We Wear Group (AWWG), took up the helm position in 2019, and set about on a mission to enhance sales and bolster the growth in new markets.
Yves Saint Laurent Beauty opens a pop-up for the launch of its YSL Loveshine collection
On March 26 and 27, to celebrate the launch of its new YSL Loveshine lipstick collection, Yves Saint Laurent Beauty, part of L’Oréal’s luxury division, will be opening a pop-up in Paris’s 11th arrondissement. At the entrance to the YSL Loveshine Factory, located at 27 boulevard Jules Ferry, a suspended heart will immerse the public in the world of YSL Loveshine.
GANG continues to rely on a successful semi-tailored collection
In addition to denim, the brand has much more to offer – understatement irresistible charm. She is addressed directly: the woman who dares. The customer who is in no Want to leave it in the drawer. And the brand recognized that. GANG presents a collection characterized by extremely relaxed, feminine silhouettes and a successful symbiosis of smart comfort and semi-tailored design offers.
Actor Celeste O'Connor Thrives in a Fantastical, Magical World
Celeste O’Connor was born with it. No, we’re not referencing a certain beauty tagline—though, that’s not untrue in this case. Rather, it’s the natural star power the actor possesses. O’Connor, who uses they/them pronouns, has had an affinity for entertaining for as long as they can remember.
Prabal Gurung, Coach and Cult Gaia among honourees for 2024 ACE Awards
The Accessories Council has officially named the honourees for its upcoming 2023 Accessories Council Excellence Awards (ACE Awards), which is set to take place May 7 in New York City. The annual event, now in its 30th year, looks to recognise individuals who have made “great strides in raising awareness of the accessories industry”, while honouring both designers and companies who have “furthered the use of accessories”.
Stéphane Bianchi succeeds Toni Belloni as group managing director
Translated by Nicola Mira Published Mar 22, 2024 LVMH has made a major change at the top. Toni Belloni, LVMH’s group managing director and chairman of the executive committee, is retiring after over 23 years with the world’s number-one luxury group. He will be replaced by Stéphane Bianchi, who has been in charge of LVMH’s Watches & Jewellery division since 2020. Belloni will formally step down from his role following the group’s AGM, scheduled on April 18.
Reformation's Vittoria Tote Bag Is Everywhere I Look
Handbags have a special place in my heart. Be they high-designer styles that I’ve saved up to purchase, or high-street gems that I’ve come across along my travels, this accessory is my Achilles heel. In having such adoration for them and coming into contact with them everyday as part of my job, I’ve been up close and personal with some of the rarest icons as well as the new trending styles, making me harder to impress than most.
Destination XL outlines growth strategy after challenging FY23
Specialty retailer Destination XL Group reported its financials for the fourth quarter and fiscal 2023 ahead of what is to be a year defined by “ambitious” strategic growth initiatives that aim to unlock the potential of its respective men’s big and tall market. For the fourth quarter, the 14-week period of fiscal 2023, total sales came to 137.1 million dollars, a slight drop from its prior 143.9 million dollars in the 13-week fourth quarter of the year prior.
The Olive Green Colour Trend Is Everywhere—Here's How to Wear It - News Leaflets
As spring time takes the helm, I, like many others, feel ready for a bit of a refresh. Eager to shake off winter’s cobwebs, I’m utilising the new-seasons boost of energy to revive my tired wardrobe with some thoughtful spring-ready additions. With blooms bursting on every corner, I’m newly inspired to work with a natural colours pallet that reflects the world around me.
Lululemon suffers share price slide despite strong annual results
Canadian sportswear provider Lululemon Athletica Inc. exceeded market expectations in the 2023/24 financial year. However, the outlook for the current year, which the company presented on Thursday evening together with the latest results, was rather cautious. As a result, the share price temporarily slipped by around 12 percent. Thanks to a surprisingly strong final quarter, turnover in the past financial year, which ended on 28 January, reached 9.62 billion dollars.
Zara founder Ortega buys Luxembourg office building for $189 million
By Reuters API Published Mar 22, 2024 Amancio Ortega, the Spanish billionaire and founder of the fashion group that owns Zara, has bought an office building in Luxembourg for 175 million euros ($189 million), his family’s investment vehicle Pontegadea said on Friday.
We're Fashion Editors—6 Spring Trends We're Leaving Behind - News Leaflets
Everyone refers to spring as the season of “out with the old, in with the new,” and as fashion editors, we’re no stranger to this phrase. If you love personal style as much as we do, you certainly find joy in this time of cleaning out your closet and discovering what’s next for the upcoming season. We’re getting a head start on determining what makes sense in our wardrobes, and we’re excited to discuss it.
Designer Brands sees yearly sales drop, plans return to growth
Footwear and accessories group Designer Brands issued its financial results for both the fourth quarter and year ended February 3, 2024, in which sales for the two periods saw a slight drop ahead of an upcoming “transition year”. For Q4, the company’s net sales fell 0.8 percent to 754.3 million dollars, while total comparable sales dropped 7.3 percent.
18 New-In Spring Pieces From M&S We’re Adding to Our Wardrobes
As soon as I get a tiny glimpse of the sun, the spring-cleaning bug takes hold, and if you’re anything like me, the satisfaction of clearing out the clutter from your wardrobe, in particular, is equal to none. So, my wardrobe recently underwent a thorough early spring clean. Two hours, a tube of Pringles and a Netflix show later, my clear-out was complete, leaving ample room for timeless new-season pieces.
Despite small sales increase, Nike profits fall in the third quarter
US sporting goods supplier Nike Inc. reported mixed figures for the third quarter of the 2023/24 financial year, though results were at least slightly better than analysts had expected in advance. In a conference call, CEO John Donahoe admitted that the latest figures were in line with management’s forecasts, but not with Nike’s potential. He therefore announced “further adjustments” in marketing, product portfolio and wholesale distribution.
Shop These Beauty Products for Less During Amazon's Sale Event
As a beauty editor, I live for opportunities to score major deals on my favorite products, so you can bet I’ll be all over one of Amazon’s biggest sales of the year. I already have my eye on a couple of products I want to snag while I still can.
The Luxurious-Looking Items to Shop From Nordstrom Big Spring Sale
I’m in my elegant era. For me, this means I’m all about assembling luxurious-looking outfits that ooze wealth and elegance—bonus, if I don’t have to spend a hefty part of my pay check to get the luxe look. Sales are, of course, the best time to take advantage of building a rich-looking wardrobe without having to pay full price. Luckily, Nordstrom’s epic spring sale is taking place now through April 2nd, where you can score major discounts on designer and contemporary brands.
LVMH Group managing director steps down after 23 years
Toni Belloni, the right hand man to LVMH boss Bernard Arnault, has announced his departure from his current duties at the luxury fashion giant after 23 years. Belloni most recently served as group managing director and chairman of the executive committee for the LVMH Group, and also held a position of the company’s board of directors, which he will leave following the annual general meeting scheduled for April 18.
The Clog Shoe Trend Is Back This Spring, So I Found the Best Pairs
In contrast to the sleek pointed-toe shoes that have saturated the market as of late, this season a sinuous style is gearing up to take over as the coolest shoe on the block. Championed by the fashion set for summers gone, Birkenstock’s Boston clog changed the footwear game a few seasons ago.
AAFA calls on Bangladesh to stop 'threats' to garment workers
American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) has called for an end to “the threats and crackdown on garment workers in Bangladesh” in an open letter addressed to the president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers & Exporters Association (BGMEA). In recent months, the protesters have been protesting against one of the lowest wages in the world, leading to the dismissal of “3,000 to 4,000 workers”, according to Clean Clothes Campaign (CCC).
Reviewed: Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream
Now that I’m over 40, I’ve noticed many changes in my body, especially my skin. It seemed like only yesterday that I used to be a clear-cut, combination skin type, prone to breakouts, kind of gal. So, it’s still shocking that I have only had one or two zits in the past year. As you can guess, the change in my skin and skincare products has taken a while to get used to.
66°North names ex-Saks Potts CEO as new strategy chief
Icelandic outdoor brand 66°North is ramping up its expansion plans and a big part of this will be its new Strategy and Business Development Director, Josefine Laigaard. She’s joined the business with immediate effect and will be a key player in its plan to become “the first truly global Icelandic brand”. The company said Laigaard “will play an integral role in the expansion plans, working in the brand’s new satellite head office in Copenhagen and working closely with the HQ in Reykjavik”.
5 Spring Shoe Trends from Zara That Replace Black Flats
It was on one of my weekly scrolls through Zara’s new arrivals section that I realised that everything I was adding to my basket were pairs of shoes. Yes, I am currently so impressed by the high street giant’s shoe offering that not only did I instantly buy two styles for myself (more on those later), but I think the footwear may actually be out-performing ready-to-wear for the first time in an age.
Step Into Loewe’s “Crafted World,” a Whimsical Exhibition of Art and Fashion, Opening in Shanghai
The disparate fashion and art pieces are united by a sense of wit that prevails throughout the entire space. There is a tongue-in-cheek “pronunciation tunnel,” a staircase lined with screens featuring friends of the house including the actresses Yang Mi and Jodie Comer instructively reciting the house name “LO-WEH-VAY” again and again. The tunnel leads up to a transportive tribute to Spain.
In Paris, the chicest way to shop is at someone else’s home
Stay informed with free updates Simply sign up to the Style myFT Digest — delivered directly to your inbox. Just off Place de la Concorde, down a quiet stretch of street between Rue Saint-Honoré and Rue de Rivoli, an unmarked wrought-iron door leads to a serene residential courtyard. Three floors up, an avocado-coloured door swings open. The host greets you warmly, shoes off, curled up on the couch with coffee. But this is no living room. It’s a store, and it’s time to go shopping.
Genderless fragrance brand Henry Rose debuts in Canada at Sephora
Henry Rose, the genderless fine fragrance brand founded by American actress Michelle Pfeiffer, has landed in Canada via Sephora stores nationwide and online. With a commitment to disclosing 100% of its ingredients, Henry Rose empowers consumers to make informed choices, aligning with Sephora Canada’s dedication to providing clean beauty options. For the first time, Canadians will have the chance to discover the brand’s assortment of fully transparent fine fragrances.
28 Luxe-Looking Under-$30 Editor-Approved Amazon Accessories
There’s nothing more I love than being on the hunt for low-cost, high-joy accessories that will instantly elevate any outfit when I don’t feel like putting much thought into my clothes. Despite a hefty closet, most days, I’ll rely on earrings, sunglasses, handbags, and shoes to bring my go-to white tee and jeans outfit up a notch. Thankfully, after browsing Amazon’s impressive spring sale, I’ve found a few hidden gems that aren’t breaking the bank.
8 Contemporary Wedding Dress Designers To Know Right Now
The year’s most wedding-proliferate months are upon us. And while nuptial celebrations may have sprung back to pre-pandemic numbers—approximately 2.24 million weddings occurred in 2023, a 62.5 percent increase since 2020, according to a Zippia report—wedding styles, and bridal dress codes, have notably changed.
Serpent à Plume’s Alexander Rash talks taste
My personal style signifier – for better or worse – is my tailoring. People in my generation don’t wear tailoring so much any more, but Francesco Mocchia di Coggiola usually dresses me from head-to-toe. You can wear tailoring, but you need to move in it, to not be so stiff. It’s important always to be able to hop over a fence. And the last thing I bought and loved was a shirt from Francesco: he makes these lovely 9in point collars.
Simons opens new store in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Canadian retailer Simons announced on Thursday the opening of its 17th store in Halifax, Nova Scotia, marking its arrival in the Maritimes and further expanding its presence across Canada. Located within the Halifax Shopping Centre, the new 56,000 square foot location represents a $20 million investment and brings along with it the creation of 150 new job opportunities for the region.
On Assignment with Latrice Carter at Vogue Club’s Ultimate Fashion Week Recap
Vogue Club member Latrice Carter recently attended our Ultimate Fashion Week Recap event live in Vogue’s New York HQ. Here’s her account of the event… Where are you from? Los Angeles—but I’m currently based in New York City. What do you do? I am a full-time womenswear fashion designer and part-time jewelry maker.
An expert guide to antiques hunting in Paris
Unlock the Editor’s Digest for free Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter. I was born in Paris in 1983. I spent my childhood in the south of France, not far from Cannes, bathed in sun and sea. My parents loved art and auctions, and as I was an only child, they dragged me everywhere with them.
Italian designer Eleonora Falcone wins 2024 Shein X challenge
Online fast-fashion retailer Shein has named Italian fashion designer Eleonora Falcone as the winner of the 2024 Shein X Global Challenge. Falcone’s winning collection, titled ‘GlowMantic’, garnered one of the highest numbers of votes during the public voting phase, and impressed the panel of judges during the finals in London, ultimately securing her the coveted title and a prize of EUR10,000.
I'm a Transgender Woman—These are My Favorite Inclusive Fashion Brands - News Leaflets
Based in the UK, Carmen Sui-Lung Liu started her brand 10 years ago—out of necessity. When Sui-Li began her transition, she quickly realized a derth of lingerie brand for tucking, designed to minimize the appearance of bulging and achieve a smoother, more gender affirming appearance. Like any smart business woman with a can-do attitude, she decided that she would be the one to do it.
Inside Thierry Gillier’s art-filled Left Bank home
In the historic, grandiose trappings of French businessman Thierry Gillier’s new Left Bank home – a late 17th-century two-storey apartment furnished with works by significant 20th-century and contemporary artists – the concept of impermanence feels paradoxical. And yet the aesthetic is innate to Gillier, who craves constant change: be it flipping major artworks throughout his adult life as a collector or moving house for the sake of doing it all over again.
Nike rises after sales beat on strength in US, China
By Bloomberg Published Mar 22, 2024 Nike Inc. reported sales that were stronger than anticipated as the company ramps up a multiyear cost-cutting plan in the face of weaker demand for its sneakers and apparel. The world’s largest sportswear retailer reported revenue of $12.4 billion for the quarter ended Feb. 29, higher than analysts’ expected, bolstered by better-than-expected sales in North America and Greater China. Nike’s sales in the crucial China growth market rose 4.5% in the quarter.
The Brides Wore Pants! The Best Bridal Suits From the Vogue Weddings Archive
As it turns out, sometimes, the best thing a bride can do is say no to the dress—and slip into a pair of wedding day-ready pants. You could argue it all started with Bianca Jagger, who famously eschewed tradition and wore a YSL smoking blazer to her wedding in 1971 to Mick Jagger. Though she wore a skirt with the blazer, it established one thing for certain: The cool girls? They wore bridal suits.
Sportswear for professionals and the mainstream market
Sports brands face the unique challenge of serving two very different customer groups: Professional athletes, who perform at the highest level and need the best products to do so, and the mainstream market, which increases sales volumes. This duality requires a differentiated brand strategy that effectively addresses both target groups.
Signet says Q4 sales down on lacklustre same store sales, reveals chair succession
Signet Jewelers announced net sales decreased 6.3% to $2.5 billion for the fourth quarter, coinciding with a single-digit decline in full-year sales for fiscal 2024, hindered by plunging same store sales. For the three months ending February 3, the Bermuda-based company said same store sales were down 9.6% to last year. By market, North America sales fell 6.1% to $2.4 billion, reflecting a decrease of 0.6% in total average transaction value, on a lower number of transactions.
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