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Dior Couture Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Dior creative director Jonathan Anderson's latest collection, an ode to the untamed beauty of the natural world, masterfully achieves a full-circle moment through an exhibition of ingenious savoir-faire and meticulous craftsmanship. The core inspiration, drawn from the ephemeral yet potent lifecycle of flora, is materialized most strikingly in the fabrication of thousands of exquisite cyclamen blooms. These flowers, hand-dyed in nuanced, […]

Credits: A fish named Fred A fish named Fred founder, Rob Schalker, announced this morning via LinkedIn that the fashion brand is set to open two international stores. This expansion comes alongside a new concept store opening at Stokstraat 38 in Maastricht. International expansion into Germany and Sweden New stores will open next month in Potsdam, near Berlin, and in the Swedish city of Trelleborg. This marks the fashion brand's entry into its fourth and fifth international markets, reports […]

Archive photo: sales day in Bordeaux. Credits: VALENTINO BELLONI / Hans Lucas / Hans Lucas via AFP The number of stores from major fashion retailers has dropped by nearly 20 percent in France between 2019 and the end of 2025, according to the Alliance du Commerce (AdC). The organisation issued a warning on Tuesday about the “de-commercialisation” of town centres ahead of the municipal elections. The decline is particularly severe for town centres and shopping centres, which are suffering […]

Credits: FIRE The fashion industry is undergoing the biggest structural transformation in decades. Markets are becoming more volatile, production and logistics chains more complex, customer behaviour more unpredictable, and capital requirements more demanding. While many brands try to navigate this reality with more meetings, more Excel, more risk, and more gut feeling, the gap between winners and everyone else continues to grow. Today, the difference no longer lies in the product, marketing, […]

Credits: Slim’s and Benilde forge alliance to elevate fashion education in PH SLIM’s Fashion & Arts School, one of the Philippines’ longest-standing fashion institutions, has formed a formal partnership with De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (Benilde) to preserve and expand fashion education in the country. The alliance was established through a memorandum of understanding signed in September 2025 and aims to integrate SLIM’s historic curriculum and archives with Benilde’s […]

A Michael Kors boutique Image: Michael Kors. US fashion group Capri Holdings Limited experienced a decline in sales during the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year. However, it successfully returned to profitability. The company's latest results, published on Tuesday, surpassed the expectations of both management and analysts. In the most recent quarter, which ended on December 27, revenue from continuing operations amounted to approximately 1.02 billion dollars. This figure excludes […]

Luka Dončić’s 77X universe Credits: 77X Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić has partnered with e-commerce platform Shopify to launch his own direct-to-fan “universe,” called 77X, offering exclusive merchandise and collectibles, alongside content and live experiences for his fans. In a statement, the NBA star said the move creates a new model for athlete-fan connection, designed to bypass traditional, fragmented media and retail models, by bringing together all his content, […]

Opinion Alaïa AW 2015 Credits: Alaïa When Pieter Mulier presents his final collection for Alaïa this March, it will close one of the quietest yet most effective creative tenures in recent Paris fashion. Quiet not because it lacked impact, quite the opposite, but because it resisted spectacle in favour of consistency, restraint and a deep respect for the house’s codes. After Azzedine Alaïa’s death in 2017, Richemont moved cautiously. For several seasons, the studio continued […]

Sparxell x Patrick McDowell synthetic dye free shirt dress Credits: Sparxell Cambridge-based biotech firm Sparxell has raised 5 million US dollars in a pre-series A funding round to scale its 100 percent plant-based, high-performance biodegradable colour technology, as it looks to replace toxic chemicals in the 48 billion US dollar global colourants market. The round was led by SWEN Capital Partners’ Blue Ocean 2 fund, which focuses on solutions to ocean overexploitation, climate change, […]

In 2025, the fund distributed a total of almost 29 million euros Credits: Pexels, Pixabay The SME Fund 2026 was launched yesterday, February 2, to help businesses protect their intellectual property. The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), with the support of the European Commission and the intellectual property offices of the EU member states, has launched a new SME Fund programme for 2026. This initiative is aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in […]

In Pictures Adidas BadBo 1.0 sneaker campaign Credits: Adidas Sportswear giant Adidas has unveiled the first signature shoe from Grammy Award-winning artist Bad Bunny, ahead of the NFL Super Bowl, where the Puerto Rican rapper and singer is performing the halftime show. The Adidas BadBo 1.0 sneaker blends street and sport, adds Adidas, while also celebrating “the evolution of identity and self-expression,” born from Bad Bunny’s own journey “of refusing to be condensed to a single […]

Anthropologie store, Devon, PA Credits: Business Wire At this year’s ongoing Spring Fair in Birmingham, UK, visitors gathered at The Style Atelier to hear how one of fashion retail’s most distinctive chains defines relevance in the current landscape. In conversation with fashion commentator Caryn Franklin, Gill McCulloch, buying director at Anthropologie Europe, set out how the brand balances instinct, data and emotional connection in a shifting retail market. McCulloch described […]

Haelixa in the lab Credits: Haelixa Swiss-based tech firm Haelixa, which offers DNA-based product traceability, has raised 2 million euros in a pre-series A investment round to support international scale and its long-term strategic growth. The round was led by existing backers Verve Ventures and Zurich Kantonalbank, with participation from impact-focused investor 212 NexT Fund. The investment adds to its previous catalytic funding awarded through the Temasek Trust Amplifier programme. In a […]

Adidas x Bape Credits: Courtesy Adidas As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 gathers pace, Adidas is laying the groundwork early, rolling out a 360-degree marketing strategy that blends streetwear credibility, experiential retail and football culture, well beyond the pitch. This week, the German sportswear giant announced a collaboration between Adidas Originals and Japanese streetwear label Bape, unveiling two retro-inspired fan jerseys. The drop signals a familiar but effective Adidas […]

Justin Pegg, chief executive officer of DPD UK Credits: DPD UK Parcel delivery firm DPD, a member of Geopost, has appointed Justin Pegg as the new chief executive officer of DPD UK, as former CEO Elaine Kerr becomes chairwoman. Pegg, who is currently chief operating officer at DPD, has been with the company for more than 35 years, and has been a member of the senior leadership team since 2016 and an executive director since 2020. In his new role, Pegg will serve as CEO of DPD UK and head of […]

Jane Atelier Credits: Jane Atelier British independent womenswear brand Jane Atelier, formerly known as Goat Fashion, founded by designer Jane Lewis in 2001, has announced that it is taking “a break” from the end of February. Lewis left a statement on the brand’s website and social media stating: “I’ve decided to take a break for now. A pause to reimagine new ways to present pieces and share new edits. “It’s not forever; I’ll be back.” The London-based label, known for its […]

Saks 2024 holiday windows Credits: Saks by Luis Guillén In a new phase of Saks Global's Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, the US Trustee's Office has formed an Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors, giving the retail group's partners a voice in the process. A total of 10 members were appointed to the committee last week, including major fashion houses such as Chanel, LVMH, Kering and Ermenegildo Zegna, as well as as well as Amazon, Brookfield Properties, a labour union representing […]

John Lawrence Sullivan autumn/winter 2026 Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight John Lawrence Sullivan boxed its way into the hearts of Berlin Fashion Week with a collection soundtracked by metal riffs. Japanese designer and label founder, Arashi Yanagawa, explained in a post-show interview that he drew inspiration from the shared mentality of his past career as a boxer and Norwegian black metal. This includes strength, independence and a forward-looking perspective. There is no looking back. […]

Credits: Nike Nike Football introduces a boot designed for 'La Reina': the first Player Edition of the Phantom 6 for Alexia Putellas. Affectionately known as 'La Reina', Alexia Putellas directs the game with exceptional vision, control, and versatility. This allows her to dominate from any position on the pitch. Her first Player Edition is crafted from this essence. It translates the signature precision of the Phantom 6 into an exclusive design. The design revolves around her long-standing […]

Nike ACG brand logo. Credits: Nike. Nike is continuing its specialised sports-centric transformation with the latest relaunch of its All Conditions Gear (ACG) brand. The sportswear giant hailed the revival as a “renewed commitment to outdoor performance”, zoning in on trail running, hiking and exploration. Alongside a revitalised marketing strategy, ACG is due to open its first standalone store this month in Beijing’s Taikoo Li Sanlitun shopping centre. Dubbed the ‘ACG Base Camp’, […]

JW Anderson flagship on London’s Pimlico Road. Credits: JW Anderson JW Anderson reported a notable turnaround in profitability for the year ended December 31, 2024, despite a slight decrease in overall revenue. According to Companies House documents, total turnover for the year was 28.43 million pounds, a 5 percent decrease from 29.9 million pounds in 2023. The reduction was attributed to the timing of shipments for the SS25 season. Profits for the year significantly rose to 21.3 million […]

US and India flags. AI-generated image for illustration purposes. Credits: FashionUnited Not even two months in, and the year 2026 already seems to be a promising one for trade deals. After the ink is barely dry on what observers have called the “mother of all trade deals” - the free trade agreement between the European Union and India signed on 27th January - another one is taking centre stage. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump announced a landmark trade […]

In Pictures Team USA’s uniforms for Milano Cortina 2026 by Ralph Lauren Credits: Ralph Lauren The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina are approaching, and fashion houses are presenting the first official team uniforms. Traditionally, these collections serve as a strategic branding moment for brands, combining national identity, heritage and performance. The games begin February 6. Team Canada dressed in Lululemon Team Canada x Lululemon for Milano Cortina 2026 Credits: […]

Interview Brax store on Viktualienmarkt in Munich. Credits: Brax The German brand Brax is prepared for the challenges in the market. It aims to position itself as smarter and more attractive to a new and younger target group through a rebranding. Innovative corduroy themes are set to bring fresh impetus to the autumn/winter 2026/27 collections. Managing director Marc Freyberg discusses growth opportunities in an interview with FashionUnited. How is the autumn/winter 2026/27 order round […]

Image: OLYMP World-renowned Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey has been the brand ambassador for international menswear brand OLYMP since 2025. This unique collaboration now marks the beginning of a new advertising phase for 2026. Mark Bezner, managing partner of OLYMP Bezner KG, says: “Matthew McConaughey and OLYMP – it’s a perfect fit. Just like our products. This is true not only on a business level but also on a human one. We are both leaders in our respective fields; we inspire people […]

Galib Gassanoff, founder of Institution Credits: Zalando Institution, an Italian-founded brand, has won the 2026 Zalando Visionary Award. The brand was recognised “for its social and artistic approach, its commitment to the community and the preservation of declining artisanal skills in fashion,” explained Zalando management in a statement. During Copenhagen Fashion Week in August, Institution will present its SS27 collection on the runway with support from Zalando. This support includes […]

F&F Clothing campaign Credits: F&F Clothing Graduate Fashion Foundation, the charity behind the largest showcase of BA fashion talent in the world, has announced a strategic partnership with Tesco’s clothing brand F&F to mark the 35th anniversary of Graduate Fashion Week (GFW) in June. In a statement, GFW, which takes place at the Truman Brewery from June 15 to 18, 2026, said the move would see F&F supporting the “next wave of fashion talent,” with a focus on bridging […]

Lady Gaga attends the 68th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 01, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. Credits: Amy Sussman / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP. The best in music strutted their stuff Sunday on the red carpet at the 68th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, celebrating the industry's biggest night in a swirl of black and white, barely-there lace and a dash of political anger. Here are some key looks from the Crypto.com Arena: Black and white Author Truman Capote […]

Zegna autumn/winter 26 Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight The Ermenegildo Zegna Group closed 2025 with revenues of 1.91 billion euros, a decrease of 1.5 percent (+1.1 percent on an organic basis), compared to 1.94 billion in 2024. Fourth-quarter 2025 revenues stood at 591 million euros. This represents a year-over-year (YoY) growth of +0.3 percent and +4.6 percent on an organic basis. The results confirm a sequential acceleration compared to the third quarter, driven mainly by the group's […]

In Pictures John Smedley x Wales Bonner capsule knitwear collection Credits: John Smedley British luxury knitwear brand John Smedley is continuing its mission to promote made-in-England manufacturing with a capsule collection in collaboration with London-based label Wales Bonner. The John Smedley x Wales Bonner capsule knitwear collection debuted at the Wales Bonner spring/summer 2026 show during Paris Fashion Week and features preppy-inspired pieces with merino polo shirts, quarter zip […]

Stripe & Stare lingerie Credits: Stripe & Stare British lingerie brand Stripe & Stare, which has become known for its comfort-led underwear, is opening its first-ever retail space on London’s King’s Road this month. The pop-up will be run from February 7 to June 8 and forms part of the lingerie brand’s broader approach to physical retail, designed to complement its e-commerce business, while also reinforcing brand visibility in “a key London shopping location”. Located at […]

Nautica 40th anniversary capsule. Credits: Authentic Brands Group. Authentic Brands Group (Authentic), the global brand development and licensing platform, has announced a strategic partnership with Altomax, a company specialising in premium underwear and socks, and owner of several well-known brands in the Brazilian market, to expand its Nautica brand in Brazil. Under the long-term agreement, Altomax will oversee the development, production, launch, and distribution of Nautica’s underwear […]

Ashley Williams SS25, a client of Lobby PR Credits: Ashley Williams SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight Lobby PR is joining fellow communication agency KiNC to form a new communications collective called the CultureComm Group. In a statement, CultureComm Group said the collective aims to build “a connected, culturally fluent group of specialist, founder-led agencies,” which will provide a supportive and collaborative, growth-minded structure for agencies, while allowing them to broaden their […]

Orva website Credits: Orva New York-based e-commerce accelerator Orva, which serves the footwear, apparel, and broader consumer goods industries, has named Jason Short as senior vice president and general merchandise manager to grow its footwear portfolio. Short, who has more than 30 years of consumer-centric merchandising experience, has been brought on to advance Orva’s footwear merchandising strategy, tasked with building long-term partnerships with leading footwear brands. He joins the […]

Martine Rose for Napapijri, SS26. Credits: Napapijri Napapijri and British designer Martine Rose unveil the third chapter of their ongoing collaboration with the Spring/Summer 2026 collection, an evolution of the partnership that originally began in FW17. This season, the dialogue between technical innovation and subversive design takes on a lighter, more playful tone, embracing bold color and relaxed silhouettes that feel both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The collection reimagines […]

Designs by the winners of the Zalando VORN Design Academy. Image: Zalando_VORN_Design Academy The Zalando VORN Design Academy has announced the winners of its emerging talent award for the fourth time. The ten finalists are currently exhibiting their creations at Berlin Fashion Week. The Design Academy was developed in 2022 by Zalando's Social Impact Team in partnership with VORN – The Berlin Fashion Hub. It connects emerging designers and young brands with industry experts. “Our goal is […]

Credits: R|Elan CDC x India-Franco Year of Innovation A special Indo-French edition of the R|Elan Circular Design Challenge (CDC) will be held in 2026 as part of the India–France Year of Innovation, organisers announced this week. Led by the Embassy of France in India and the French Institute in India, in partnership with Reliance Industries Limited, the United Nations in India, and the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (FHCM), the initiative aims to support emerging designers […]

NikeSkims Selfridges pop-up. Credits: Skims. Months after its highly anticipated launch, NikeSkims is venturing into retail with the launch of a series of pop-up experiences, each extending its identity. The first location the brand has tapped for a temporary space is Selfridges in London, where it will host a pop-up until March 5. The site will offer a curated selection of footwear, apparel and accessories from the spring 2026 collection, inspired by “the modern ballerina”. This will be […]

Credits: Artemis Academie x Groupe EDH Artemis Academie, the leading academy for creative concepting in Trend Forecasting, Styling & Design and Art Direction, is joining forces with the international education organization Group EDH. Groupe EDH is a higher- education network specialized in design, film and digital creation, and is known for its prestigious academies such as IFA Paris, GNOMON, École Bleue and MoPA. In the Netherlands, Artemis offers an accredited full-time Bachelor of […]

‘Saks Arrives on Amazon’ Campaign by Max Siedentopf. Credits: Saks / Amazon. Following its bankruptcy filing, Saks Global is believed to be ending its relationship with Amazon, and is set to wind down its storefront on the marketplace giant. According to sources for Reuters, the decision to bring the ‘Saks on Amazon’ concept to a halt comes as the luxury retail group looks to focus on parts of the business where there is more opportunity for growth. It is believed that the Amazon […]

Dior's new Diorly bag. Credits: Mireia Deulofeu The Diorly bag by Jonathan Anderson redefines a new and freer casual attitude. Supple and soft, its construction and fine finishes give it a subtly vintage feel. This new shape is available in soft leather punctuated by the graphic lines of cannage, or in delicate suede, like a tribute to the two materials and their textures. Its adjustable shoulder strap—adorned with a metallic “Dior”—allows it to be worn naturally on the shoulder. […]

The first drop items from Hypedrop. Credits: Bestseller Interview Danish fashion group Bestseller is introducing a new brand specifically for wholesale: Hypedrop. The brand has an innovative setup, with a small weekly drop of 10 to 15 items that retailers can purchase within a 72-hour window. The ordering window then closes, and the items are delivered within six weeks. This provides retailers with a quick way to respond to trends and weather changes. For Bestseller, it is a method of meeting […]

Credits: Copenhagen str F26 0087 ©Launchmetrics/spotlight From January 27–30, 2026, Copenhagen Fashion Week marked its 20th anniversary, and despite snow and sub-zero temperatures, attendees rose to the occasion with considered, fashion-forward dressing, mostly in true minimal, architectural Scandi-style. Strong outerwear took center stage, proving that winter layering can be chic—with puffers notably scarce. Crisp white total looks stood out against the wintry backdrop. Headwear played […]

Robert Wun Haute Couture SS26. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Nicole Kidman, Demi Moore, Bella Hadid, Oprah Winfrey: women entertainers and models are reviving the necktie, a symbol of male power, at a time when feminism is under attack. Whether paired with a trouser suit, like Nicole Kidman in February 2025 at the Critics Choice Awards ceremony, or with a black dress and a sheer shirt, like Demi Moore last November in Berlin, the tie has been making a comeback for several seasons. Models […]

Emmanuel Macron in Davos, January 20, 2026. Credits: Photo by FABRICE COFFRINI / AFP The aviator sunglasses that captured the world's attention when French President Emmanuel Macron wore a pair on stage in Davos in a faceoff with US counterpart Donald Trump have become an unexpected success for the Italian owner of the France-based manufacturer that has watched sales soar. Despite the hype, eyewear maker Henry Jullien has struggled in a declining French industry that was established in the […]

The circular mall of the future - green and multifunctional. AI-generated image for illustration purposes. Credits: FashionUnited Can shopping centres become centres for a circular society? And if yes, how can they evolve from linear consumption centres into vibrant, circular hubs that drive economic resilience and cultural relevance? The whitepaper “Don’t Call It Circular Society Mall”, presented today at Berlin Fashion Week, explores these questions. It was developed by the 202030 […]

Stella McCartney Credits: Reliance Brands via LinkedIn Central Saint Martins, part of University of the Arts London (UAL), has appointed Stella McCartney as the inaugural Industry Ambassador for its M School—a multidisciplinary school focusing on Fashion, Jewellery, Textiles & Materials. In her new role, McCartney will work closely with students and faculty to support material innovation, sustainability and regenerative design as part of the school’s mission to connect creative […]

Andrej Gronau FW26 Credits: Ole Spötter for FashionUnited Andrej Gronau opens the doors to his doll's house, offering a glimpse into personal memories and the comfort of home. The German designer of the eponymous London-based label uses the doll's house as a concept. He applies this to one's own home, a central place for identity and connection. The parlour One's own home, much like a doll's house, is furnished according to individual taste. It does not follow the rules that govern public […]

Oakley apparel Credits: Courtesy Oakley Oakley is expanding its presence in competitive snow sports at a moment when performance outerwear is enjoying renewed momentum. For the first time in its history, the brand has become the official apparel sponsor of the national freestyle snowboard federations of Canada and Finland, while also equipping New Zealand’s freestyle ski athletes with purpose-built competition gear. The move comes amid a strong January for outerwear sales. […]

CIFF Super, CIFF's 66th edition. Credits: CIFF. Report A dusting of snow lined the street on the opening morning of Copenhagen International Fashion Fair (CIFF) as buyers made their way to the Bella Center for the 2026 winter iteration, held January 27 to 29. This season, the fair, celebrating its 66th edition, introduced a slew of new features designed to energise the event and support brands and retailers beyond the floor, a mission that was also evident in this year’s theme, ‘CIFF […]

Chanel Couture Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight What is the role of couture collections in 2026? It is a question designers seemed to be grappling with this haute couture season. Couture remains the pinnacle of luxury, yet in a world in flux, recent seasons have sometimes rendered its ostentatious creations more vanity project than wearable proposition. This season, however, some voices – both new and established – reminded audiences to return the focus to the clothes themselves, while […]

Globally acclaimed bowler Japrit Bumrah with Skechers debut Cricket Elite footwear Credits: Skechers US sneaker brand Skechers has launched its first-ever cricket footwear collection in the UK.  The collection launch, which follows on from the inaugural introduction in India, sees the brand bring its Skechers cricket elite style to players of all levels in the UK. The collection is said to have been developed using insights and feedback from elite cricket players and the cricket community to […]

Pieter Mulier and Osman Ahmed, fashion features director at i-D Magazine | Credits: Fille Roelants Alaïa, owned by the Richemont group, officially announced the departure of its creative director, Pieter Mulier, this Friday, according to a report by WWD. After a five-year collaboration marked by a stylistic renewal and significant commercial growth, the Belgian designer will present his final collection for the brand next March. Since his appointment in 2021, Pieter Mulier has taken on the […]

The Patagonia store in Amsterdam Credits: Patagonia by Margriet Hoekstra A legal dispute is underway between the sportswear and accessories brand Patagonia and the American drag queen Pattie Gonia. On January 21, Patagonia filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Pattie Gonia, citing a need to respect intellectual property. Patagonia stated in its complaint at the federal court of California that the artist, whose birth name is Wyn Wiley, uses the name Pattie Gonia, which is […]

Credits: Hoka® HOKA®, a division of Deckers Brands (NYSE: DECK), introduces the Cielo X1 3.0, the brand’s lightest super shoe to date. Propulsive and precision-tuned for race day, the Cielo X1 3.0 is engineered to minimize weight and maximize performance, helping runners chase their fastest results yet. Driven by insights from HOKA elite athletes, the Cielo X1 3.0 is built for speed. The 3.0 sheds significant weight from the last Cielo iteration, while packing a propulsive carbon fiber […]

Fourth-quarter sales amounted to 225 million Credits: Safilo Group Preliminary sales for 2025 reached 983.4 million euros (1.2 billion dollars) for Safilo Group. This represents a growth of 1.8 percent at constant exchange rates, following a fourth quarter that saw a 0.4 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. At current exchange rates, sales recorded a 1 percent decline for the year and a 4.6 percent drop in the quarter. This was affected by the progressive weakening of the […]

SF1OG spring/summer 2026 Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Berlin Fashion Week kicks off this Friday (30 January) against a backdrop of sub-zero temperatures. Over the next four days, the city will host a vibrant blend of established German mainstays, emerging local talent, and international names—including London’s own Lueder and Uganda-based Buzigahill. The schedule starts strong on Friday with heavyweights such as Marc Cain, Ester Perbandt, and Danny Reinke. They share the opening-day […]

Interior de la tienda de Primark del número 32 de la Gran Vía de Madrid (España). Credits: Primark. Primark, the global fashion retailer, today announces its expansion plans in the Middle East following the successful opening of its first store in Kuwait, at The Avenues, in October 2025. In partnership with leading international retail franchise operator Alshaya Group, Primark will open three stores in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates in the first half of the year, with the first store […]

Quiz store. Credits: Quiz. British fashion chain Quiz is believed to be seeking a "rescue financing package” after Christmas sales proved to be “disappointing”. According to the Telegraph, the financing would contribute to “radical plans” to stabilise the business amid higher costs and heightened competition from online retail giants. The company, which operates over 40 stores, is said to be mulling the appointment of advisors to draw up options for the business, “including new […]

Claire's store in Paris. Credits: Claire's This week has been yet another rife in administration proceedings. Claire’s UK and Ireland operations have officially collapsed, as has discount retailer The Original Factory Shop (TFOS), collectively putting around over 2,180 jobs at risk. Both companies are owned by Modella Capital. Claire’s administration was confirmed to Sky News on Monday, when Kroll announced it was formally appointed as administrator. In a statement to the publication, the […]

Campaign image for I miss who I was, the SS26 collection from EME Studios. Credits: EME Studios. Valencia - When a company achieves meteoric success, there is always a fascination with the "secret sauce." Questions inevitably follow: where did the spark come from, and how did they scale so fast? When the origin story is as transparent as the one behind EME Studios, it leaves observers asking: Why them and not me? It is a narrative reminiscent of Steve Jobs starting an empire in a California […]

Credits: Saks. Saks Global is continuing to roll out changes to its business amid a review of its operations as part of ongoing bankruptcy proceedings. In its latest announcement, the US retail group confirmed plans to partially wind down its off-price category and close the majority of its Saks Off 5th retail locations, as well as the five remaining Last Call stores. The move comes as the company seeks to sharpen its focus on luxury retail and full-price selling, with the decision a direct […]

Prada, menswear autumn/winter 2026-27 collection Credits: Launchmetrics/spotlight Prada has cut ties with 222 suppliers for compliance violations over the past five years. This follows a “zero tolerance” audit in response to allegations of labour abuses in the fashion supply chain. The data was provided by Prada and reported by the British newspaper, the Financial Times. The company confirmed this to FashionUnited. Since 2020, the Milan-based company has conducted over 850 inspections of […]

Hermès leather goods workshop in Louviers (Eure). Credits: ©Iwan Baan Following a memorable show marked by the farewell of Véronique Nichanian, Hermès is making headlines again by announcing a new leather goods project. The facility will be established in Normandy in France, a region where the luxury group already has several workshops. The new leather goods workshop will be located in the town of Les Andelys, in the Eure department. As the group stated in a press release, its […]

Credits: Cup of Joe Across runways, retail assortments and high-street movements, denim’s role continues to expand well beyond the classic five-pocket jean. For 2026, it increasingly anchors elevated ensembles, coordinated sets and thoughtfully composed seasonal wardrobes. From deeper washes to sculpted silhouettes, these are some of the key denim signals shaping the year ahead. Dark, elegant washes take centre stage Depth of colour defines denim’s next chapter. Designers are leaning into […]

Notonthehighstreet Credits: Notonthehighstreet via Facebook German private equity boutique Executive Equity Partners (EEP) has acquired 100 percent of the shares in the UK-based online marketplace Notonthehighstreet. The Munich-based firm purchased the company from sellers including US-based Great Hill Equity Partners and Munich-based Burda Principal Investments. Founded in 2006, Notonthehighstreet operates a curated platform focusing on jewellery, home accessories, stationery, and homeware. […]

Swatch store. Credits: Swatch Swiss watchmaking and jewelry company Swatch Group AG (SWGNF) on Friday reported significantly weaker full-year results, as lower sales and higher operating expenses weighed on earnings. Profit before tax declined to CHF 158 million from CHF 345 million a year earlier. Operating profit fell to CHF 135 million, compared with CHF 304 million in the previous year. Net income dropped sharply to CHF 3 million or CHF 0.05 per bearer share, from CHF 193 million or CHF […]

Dries Van Noten Menswear AW26. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight One of the hottest trends in fashion right now is hosting catwalk shows in empty office blocks or disused car parks. The appeal was evident again during the just-concluded Paris Men's Fashion Week, where designers sought out stripped-back buildings to showcase their creations. The lower rental prices compared with a plush hotel or cultural venue might also explain their popularity at a time when the industry has been […]

Vietnamese designer Phan Huy (R), flanked by Canadian actress and model Coco Rocha (C), at the end of the Phan Huy Women's Haute Couture SS26 collection fashion show as part of the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week, in Paris, on January 29, 2026. Credits: (Photo by Thomas SAMSON / AFP) Phan Huy has had a thrilling -- but quite stressful -- journey to making history at Paris Haute Couture Week on Thursday where he will become the youngest and the first Vietnamese designer to present a collection […]

FARFETCH presents an exclusive modest curation highlighting Arab talent. Credits: FARFETCH FARFETCH, the global platform for luxury, announces the launch of an exclusive curation highlighting Arab talent and celebrating the Middle Eastern fashion community during Ramadan. The curation, featuring almost one hundred exclusive pieces, is a showcase for interpretations of modest dressing, bringing together international brands such as Isabel Marant, Juwelina Paris, La DoubleJ, Malone Souliers, and […]

Hoka store Credits: Deckers Brands US-based footwear company Deckers Brands has reported positive revenue and earnings for its third fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2025. The Goleta-based group saw net sales increase 7.1 percent to 1.96 billion dollars, and up 6.8 percent on a constant currency basis. Stefano Caroti, president and chief executive officer, noted that the performance was fueled by significant global demand for the Ugg and Hoka brands. Caroti highlighted that both labels […]

Adidas store Credits: Adidas German sportswear group Adidas has reported strong preliminary financial results for the full year 2025, supported by double-digit growth across all market segments. The Herzogenaurach-based company reached a record revenue level of 24.81 billion euros (29.58 billion dollars), representing an increase from 23.68 billion euros in 2024. This growth was achieved despite a negative currency translation impact exceeding one billion euros. For the full year, […]

Scoop's July 2025 edition. Credits: Scoop. Scoop’s upcoming edition, spanning February 8 to 10 at Olympia National, is centred on the theme of whimsy and discovery. The event will continue to encapsulate its signature format, an immersive buying experience that bears more resemblance to a showroom than a traditional trade fair. This year, there is a notable emphasis on a global presence, demonstrated by an expansion in the number of international brands exhibiting. Among the regions […]

Credits: Kent & Curwen FW25 ©Launchmetrics/spotlight As the major Fall/Winter 2026 ready-to-wear collections begin in mid-February, the key footwear trends and must-have styles are coming into focus. Post-pandemic shifts in consumer demand continue to influence design, with heel heights going lower or giving way to platforms. Boots with flat or low heels will trend as they ‘go with anything’ and are considered part of the swing toward investment dressing. Other classic styles like […]

Grey and Fibrous Fashion, defined by gathering, pleating and layering, at Christian Dior SS26 RTW. The craft of black at Chanel OFF26 Pre-Fall Womenswear. Frenetic Fashion with pepper-like shapes and colours at Monique Lhuillier FW26 RTW. Farmers’ Market charm, featuring vichy prints in pink/red and natural beauty, at Ami Paris FW26 Menswear. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight “Doing this work is becoming more and more difficult, almost every day,” Lidewij Edelkoort starts on stage […]

Credits: New York str F25 ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Business in the global accessory markets is booming, namely in handbags, belts, scarves, hats and jewelry. Several factors are pushing these categories upwards. These include the expansion of e-commerce and the impact of social media and influencer culture. Accessories are benefiting disproportionately because they are less expensive than full outfits and deliver high emotional ROI per dollar. For FW26 expect to see statement-driven design […]

LK Bennett Credits: Image: LK Bennett The long-term outlook for LK Bennett’s store portfolio remains uncertain, following the premium womenswear acquisition out of administration by US investment firm Gordon Brothers on Wednesday, January 28. The new owners, who own Laura Ashley and Poundland, acquired the LK Bennett brand and its intellectual property (IP) assets just a day after joint administrators Alvarez and Marsal’s John Noon and Mark Firmin were appointed.  However, the deal did […]

Munich Fabric Start in January 2026. Credits: Munich Fabric Start Munich (Germany) - This was the second edition of Munich Fabric Start/Bluezone under new leadership. Last March, new managing director Florian Klinder took over responsibility for the trade fairs from his brother, Sebastian Klinder, who had led them for over 17 years. “We deliberately chose the motto ‘Pleasure’. It is about enjoying fashion, even when the challenges are significant,” explains Klinder. The fashion market […]

TJ Maxx to open first new store in New York City in over a decade at Herald Towers Credits: Courtesy of JEMB Realty Off-price department store chain TJ Maxx has signed a new major long-term lease with JEMB Realty to open its first flagship store in New York City in over a decade. TJ Maxx is set to open a new 40,000 square feet flagship store on the ground and lower levels of Herald Towers. Additional details regarding the flagship store opening date have yet to be announced. Herald […]

UPDATE Amazon announces 16,000 layoffs Credits: Amazon Amazon has announced that it will be making 16,000 roles redundant across its global company,confirming media reports that had been circulating since last Friday. The announcement marks the second major round of layoffs made by the tech and e-commerce giant over the past four months, in line with Amazon’s broader aim to streamline its operations and invest more in AI. In a message sent out to employees on January 28, Beth Galetti, […]

McQueen boutique in Florence, Italy. Credits: Photo by BEATA ZAWRZEL / NURPHOTO / NURPHOTO VIA AFP British luxury brand McQueen could lay off one-third of its Italian employees, according to a statement released by three local unions on Wednesday. The company's management has announced a restructuring plan. According to the unions Filctem CGIL, Femca CISL and Uiltec, this plan involves cutting approximately one-third of the total workforce. Production processes are also set to be reorganised […]

Credits: Etam Marie Delahaie has been appointed director of the Etam brand. She will assume her new role in May 2026 and will play a part in the lingerie governance of the Etam Group. Marie Delahaie has been the CEO of Undiz since May 2024. At the Etam Group-owned brand, which targets a younger demographic, she has spearheaded a rebranding; an overhaul of key touchpoints; product development; an enhanced in-store experience and an omnichannel approach. Founded in 1916, Etam is an independent, […]

Tissot watch. Credits: Unsplash. Zurich - Hit by US tariffs, Swiss watch exports contracted by 1.7 percent in 2025 despite a rebound in December, according to statistics published on Thursday by the Swedish watch federation. In 2025, Swiss watch exports amounted to 25.6 billion francs (33.32 billion dollars). This marked a decline for the second consecutive year, following a period of record-breaking performance over the three preceding years from 2021 to 2023. Exports to the US fell by 0.5 […]

BHV Marais. Credits: Photo by J-F TRIPELON-JARRY / ONLY FRANCE / ONLY FRANCE VIA AFP. The name of the entity that has acquired BHV Marais, an iconic department store in Paris that hosts the first Shein retail department, is now known: Brookfield Asset Management, a global Canadian asset management fund, has acquired BHV Marais from the Galeries Lafayette group. In a letter to employees dated January 27, 2026, Frédéric Merlin of Société des Grands Magasins (SGM) wrote: “This transaction […]

In Pictures Guess Jeans opens Homecoming flagship store in Los Angeles Credits: Guess Jeans Guess Jeans is set to open a new, two-story concept flagship store in Los Angeles as the brand celebrates its return to its Californian roots. Located at the intersection of Melrose and San Vicente in West Hollywood, the opening also marks a new chapter in Guess Jeans global retail expansion strategy. Officially opening its doors on January 31, the new homecoming concept store is designed to […]

Diesel launches its first luggage collection Image: Diesel Italian fashion brand Diesel is expanding its product range. The label, part of the OTB group, announced on Thursday the launch of its first luggage collection, “Diesel Luggage”. According to Diesel, the new line was developed under the direction of creative director Glenn Martens in collaboration with Chinese accessories manufacturer Canton Unicorn Group. For its launch, the collection includes hard-shell suitcases with an […]

Credits: Hollister The Metrocentre Partnership has announced that Hollister has signed at Metrocentre, adding another global powerhouse brand to the leading destination for fashion retail in the North East. Hollister, owned by Abercrombie & Fitch, is set to open a 6,000 sq ft unit in Red Mall this summer,adjacent to Stradivarius and the upsized Superdrug. The store will showcase a selection of clothing, accessories, and fragrances, from unique, trendy pieces to the brand’s signature […]

Meruert Talogen Credits: MeruertTalogen.com A recent Fibre2Fashion article examines whether today’s fashion industry is supporting emerging designers as effectively as in the past, raising concerns about structural barriers that may be “leaving them behind.” The piece notes that historically, young designers helped drive innovation and cultural shifts in fashion, but now face increasing pressure to deliver fully commercial and globally relevant brands with limited financial backing and […]

David Beckham, Credits: courtesy of ABG Interparfums, which produces fragrances for brands including Jimmy Choo and Coach, announced on Thursday the acquisition of two additional licences for David Beckham and Nautica. “Interparfums today announced the signing of an exclusive 20-year global licence agreement with David Beckham for the creation, development, production and distribution of fragrances,” the group stated in a press release issued overnight between Wednesday and Thursday. “I […]

Credits: JOOR JOOR announces the introduction of Visual Assortment, a groundbreaking tool which enables fashion retailers to centralize and organize their entire assortment of products in a single place. This highly visual solution dramatically improves the wholesale buying process by empowering fashion buyers to easily see and filter product images across all of their brand partners to gain a clear understanding of upcoming inventory and ensure an overall optimal product-mix for their store. […]

Credits: My Jewellery My Jewellery aims to better understand and reduce its environmental impact. To achieve this, the Dutch jewellery and fashion brand is collaborating with Carbonfact, a platform that calculates the environmental footprint of fashion products. Using Carbonfact, My Jewellery gains insight into the CO2 emissions, water consumption, and energy usage associated with producing its clothing, accessories, and jewellery. The collaboration helps the brand measure the impact of its […]

Credits: Leicester Made Leicester Made & Regions 2026 is positioning fashion education and skills development at the centre of its expanded programme, offering new opportunities for educators, students and early-career professionals to engage with the future of British fashion and textile manufacturing. Organised by Fashion-Enter Ltd, the two-day event will take place at De Montfort University and aims to strengthen links between fashion education, manufacturing and industry. Alongside […]

Shoes in a shop window. Image for illustration. Credits: Unsplash. Fashion never moves in a straight line. It loops. Trends resurface, silhouettes return and “new” designs often feel suspiciously familiar. Shoes, bags and garments evolve through seasons, references and visual languages. In an industry built on remixing, the line between inspiration and infringement is rarely obvious. So, when designs start to look similar and influenced by previous iterations, how can the law work […]

An H&M store in Stockholm Image: H&M. Swedish apparel group Hennes & Mauritz AB experienced a slight decline in sales for the 2024/25 fiscal year. This was primarily due to adverse market conditions and negative currency effects. However, the company improved its profit thanks to successful cost-saving measures. This was revealed in the latest annual report, which the parent company of brands such as H&M, Cos, Weekday, & Other Stories and Arket presented on Thursday. […]

EU-India Free Trade Agreement. AI-generated image for illustration purposes. Credits: FashionUnited Opinion For many garment industry insiders who have navigated the ebb and flow of global supply chains for years, witnessing the formal signing of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on 27th January 2026 seems like the dawn of a new era. For decades, Indian exporters felt as if one hand was tied behind their backs as they faced stiff tariffs while neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and […]

Strathberry Covent Garden store Credits: Strathberry UK luxury leather goods brand Strathberry has announced a 35 percent increase in revenue to 36.40 million pounds (50.37 million dollars) for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2025. The Edinburgh-based brand attributed this performance to aggressive international expansion and a robust direct-to-consumer (DTC) model, which now accounts for approximately 90 percent of total sales. The company remains on a steep growth trajectory, reporting a 58 […]

Allbirds store Credits: Allbirds Sustainable footwear brand Allbirds has announced it will close all remaining full-price retail locations in the US by the end of February 2026. The decision marks a significant shift in the company’s physical retail strategy as it prioritises a leaner, more capital-efficient operating model. The San Francisco-based company stated that the closures will allow it to redirect resources toward its e-commerce platform, wholesale partnerships, and international […]

Levi's store Credits: Levi's US denim giant Levi Strauss & Co. (LS&Co.) has reported a 4 percent increase in reported net revenues to 6.30 billion dollars for the fiscal year ended November 30, 2025. On an organic basis, which excludes the impacts of foreign exchange and divestitures, the group saw a 7 percent rise compared to the prior year. The company has reached what leadership describes as an inflection point in its transition toward becoming a direct-to-consumer (DTC) led denim […]

Interview Merryl Tielman SS26 Credits: Merryl Tielman | Photography by Krista van der Niet Designer Merryl Tielman began her career as a creative exploring her path at the Rietveld Academy. After one year of fashion design, she switched to audiovisual studies, stating: “I felt limited in fashion.” Several jobs and a footwear design course later, it turned out she was closer to her calling than she had realised. She started making bags purely out of interest, “just for myself.” […]

Ariane Gorin Credits: LVMH French luxury conglomerate LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH) has announced changes to its leadership structure following a board of directors meeting held on January 27, 2026. The group intends to propose the appointment of Ariane Gorin to the board at the upcoming annual general meeting (AGM) scheduled for April 23, 2026. The move follows the decision by Marie-Laure Sauty de Chalon to conclude her mandate after 12 years of service. The board reached the […]