Emily in Paris redefines brand integration in streaming era

Emily in Paris Credits: Netflix



The latest installment of Netflix's hit series Emily in Paris is revolutionising the landscape of brand integration in television, potentially reshaping the future of luxury marketing. The first four episodes of season 4, which premiered to an audience of over 58 million households worldwide, showcase a sophisticated blend of narrative and product placement that goes beyond mere visual representation.


This season's approach to brand integration is particularly noteworthy in an era where traditional advertising is losing efficacy. With 86 percent of viewers skipping television ads and 47 percent using ad blockers online, according to a 2023 Nielsen report, luxury brands are seeking innovative ways to reach their target audience.


One striking example is the seamless incorporation of Boucheron, the venerable French jeweler founded in 1858, into a pivotal event scene. The brand's social media account appears on screen, a move that industry analysts predict could significantly boost its follower count, currently standing at 877,000 on Instagram.


Similarly, the show features Ami Paris, the French ready-to-wear brand that has seen a 30 percent year-on-year growth since 2020. The brand makes an appearance at a fictionalised French Open, mirroring Ami’s real-life foray into sports partnerships, including its recent collaboration with Puma.


A new level of product placement




Perhaps most intriguing is the integration of Baccarat, the luxury crystal manufacturer. The show introduces a fictional perfume called "Heartbreak," which is, in fact, available for purchase on Baccarat's website for 410 euros. This blurring of fiction and reality represents a new frontier in transmedia marketing strategies.


The series also touches on the booming luxury resale market, estimated to reach 51 billion dollars globally by 2026 according to Boston Consulting Group. A scene featuring Vestiaire Collective, the French luxury resale platform valued at 1.7 billion dollars in 2022, highlights this trend, albeit with a touch of dramatic license in its pricing – an haute couture dress offloaded by Mindy is bought for just over 3,000 euros.


While "Emily in Paris" may take creative liberties with certain industry realities, its innovative approach to brand integration offers a glimpse into the future of luxury marketing in streaming content. As traditional advertising channels continue to lose effectiveness, this model could provide a blueprint for brands seeking to engage with the elusive millennial and Gen Z luxury consumers, who are projected to account for 70 percent of the luxury market by 2025.


As streaming platforms and luxury brands navigate this new landscape, the success of "Emily in Paris" in seamlessly weaving brand narratives into its storyline may well set a new standard for content creation and marketing in the digital age.


Baccarat x Emily in Paris Credits: Baccarat website


http://dlvr.it/TC1jbG

Pharrell Williams’ Humanrace brand teams up with Evian

Evian x Humanrace by Pharrell Williams capsule collection Credits: Evian



In Pictures


Pharrell Williams and his fashion and lifestyle brand Humanrace have partnered with water brand Evian to launch an exclusive limited-edition tennis-inspired apparel collection.


The collaboration comes ahead of the US Open tennis tournament, which kicks off in New York on August 26, where Evian has been the official water sponsor for more than three decades.


The all-gender capsule collection combines the essence of tennis through “Williams' personal fashion sense rooted in his active lifestyle and focus on being well,” explains Evian in the press release.


Evian x Humanrace by Pharrell Williams capsule collection Credits: Evian



Commenting on the collaboration, Williams said: "Every piece in this line reflects my belief that being well is a lifestyle. Water's the essence of life, right? We can't live without it. So, it's only natural for Humanrace and Evian to come together for this collaboration. It's all about celebrating what keeps us connected, mindful, and moving."


Launching on August 24, the Evian x Humanrace by Pharrell Williams capsule collection draws inspiration from sports and tech with a nod to utilitarian living. It features a cropped French Terry quarter zip, track-inspired swing shorts, a mock-neck, a drop shoulder T-shirt, a cap, and an expandable carry-all bag.


Evian x Humanrace by Pharrell Williams capsule collection Credits: Evian



Edward Robinson, creative director at Humanrace, added: "When designing this collection, we applied the Humanrace lens to Pharrell's imaginative playfulness and Evian's Live Young ethos.


"Humanrace naturally aligns with sportsmanship—both strive towards the daily commitment to being well and a dedication to excellence. Through design, we crafted a collection that honours the global community at the intersection of sport, style, and innovation."


Evian x Humanrace by Pharrell Williams capsule collection Credits: Evian



The collection will be available exclusively at Humanrace.com for a limited time, while supplies last from August 24. On the same day, there will also be a one-day-only experience in Gansevoort Plaza in New York City for people to purchase the collection.


Leeni Hämäläinen, marketing director for Evian in North America, said: "The collaboration between Evian, Pharrell and Humanrace encapsulates the spirit of our 'Live Young' ethos.


"Whether sporting the sleek tenniscore collection around town, celebrating with the local community at the US Open or sipping on our natural spring water from the French Alps, we want to inspire people to embrace joy and wellbeing - both physically and emotionally."


Evian x Humanrace by Pharrell Williams capsule collection Credits: Evian



Evian x Humanrace by Pharrell Williams capsule collection Credits: Evian


http://dlvr.it/TC09lb

'Emily in Paris' returns to Netflix with secondhand fashion

Premiere of the fourth season of “Emily in Paris” in Los Angeles (USA) on August 14, 2024. Credits: Netflix.



The fourth season of the Netflix series "Emily in Paris" premiered in Los Angeles. The series will once again focus on the adventures and misadventures, the love and heartbreak of the young American Emily Cooper during her stay in the French capital. Of course, fashion will once again play a major role. But this time it will also be about the advantages of resale and the second-hand market.


The new season includes a total of ten episodes, in which numerous creations from the most famous brands and designers in the fashion world will be seen. Collaborations with fashion houses such as Aquazzura, Balmain, Boss, Cortana, Dior, Etro, Giambattista Valli, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Isabel Marant, Jacquemus, Karl Lagerfeld, Kate Spade, Marni, Manoukian and Miu Miu will be presented. Other collaborating brands include Prada, Saint Laurent, Sergio Rossi, Thom Browne, Valentino, Yves Delloye, Zac Posen, Zegna and Zimmermann.


The series presents itself as an open window to a world of fantasy and daydreaming, centered around a young intern at a Parisian communications agency. This time, the series is also devoted to the increasingly popular second-hand market and resale. The fourth season also sees the debut of the Vestiaire Collective platform, which specializes in the resale of luxury fashion. Vestiaire Collective is a start-up of the luxury goods group Kering, which also owns brands such as Gucci, Balenciaga and Saint Laurent. The series was divided into two parts, with the last episodes starting on September 12th.The fourth season of the Netflix series "Emily in Paris" premiered in Los Angeles. The series will once again focus on the adventures and misadventures, the love and heartbreak of the young American Emily Cooper during her stay in the French capital. Of course, fashion will once again play a major role. But this time it will also be about the advantages of resale and the second-hand market.


For the first time: second-hand retailer Vestiaire Collective




"We are thrilled to be associated with such an iconic television series that celebrates fashion in such an influential way," said Fanny Moizant, co-founder and president of Vestiaire Collective. The partnership is an important milestone for the integration of circular fashion into popular shows and reflects "the importance of today's secondhand fashion market." Moizant hopes that the collaboration will "motivate more people to buy secondhand fashion" and thus "contribute to a more sustainable future."


The launch of the new season was celebrated on August 14 at The Egyptian Theater in Los Angeles. The premiere was attended by the main actors of the series, led by Lily Collins, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu and Ashley Park, as well as Lucas Bravo, Lucien Laviscount, Samuel Arnold, Bruno Gouery, William Abadie, Arnaud Binard and Paul Forman, all of whom have already risen to fame through their roles in the series. Together with members of the production team, the producers and the creator of the series, Darren Star, they opened the premiere on the red carpet in front of the Egyptian Theater.


As for the plot, Netflix itself tells us that “after the dramatic events of the failed wedding between Camille and Gabriel,” in this new season we will see a “hesitant Emily” with “strong feelings for two men.”


This translated article previously appeared on FashionUnited.es.


Premiere of the fourth season of “Emily in Paris” in Los Angeles (USA) on August 14, 2024. Credits: Netflix.



Premiere of the fourth season of “Emily in Paris” in Los Angeles (USA) on August 14, 2024. Credits: Netflix.



Premiere of the fourth season of “Emily in Paris” in Los Angeles (USA) on August 14, 2024. Credits: Netflix.


http://dlvr.it/TC09RL

Applications open for Francophone Young Fashion Designers Competition

Young woman with shopping bags. Image for illustrative purposes.Credits: Unsplash.



First launched in 2019, the Francophone Young Fashion Designers Competition is back for its second edition. The call for applications is now open, with the final set to take place in October 2024 during the ‘Francophonie Summit’, the event for French-language speakers.


To participate in the Francophone Young Fashion Designers Competition, applicants must meet certain criteria.


The competition is open to fashion designers aged 18 to 35 who are originally from a member state of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF). They can be fashion students, recent graduates, emerging designers or established professionals.


Francophone Young Fashion Designers Competition opens applications




“The 2024 edition of this competition aims to celebrate the creativity and innovation of young fashion designers from French-speaking countries, with a particular focus on eco-responsible practices centred around upcycling,” Chantal Durivage, jury member and executive vice president of creative development at M.A.D Collectif, which produces and creates fashion events in Canada and internationally, wrote in a LinkedIn post.


Candidates will be evaluated based on a variety of criteria, namely: concept, originality and innovation, creative strategy and final design, technical quality, functionality and practicality, storytelling and quality of visual presentation, and market potential.


This article was originally published on FashionUnited.FR. It was translated from French into English with the help of an AI tool and edited by Veerle Versteeg.


http://dlvr.it/TC09Cs

Copenhagen Fashion Week SS25 key trends

CPHFW SS25/ main image Credits: CPHFW SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Very often dubbed the “fifth fashion week” after New York, London, Paris and Milan, Copenhagen Fashion Week SS25 ran from Monday, August 5 to Friday, August 9, 2024 with 28 shows, 12 presentations and 84 events.


As always, sustainability was a major theme. Designers continued to focus on eco-friendly materials, ethical production practices, and circular fashion principles. For example, Henrik Vibskov showed a collection that combined recycled materials with inventive silhouettes.


Each season Copenhagen Fashion Week garners more and more international acclaim. Pamela Anderson and her two sons sat front row at the Rotate show. Irish-born London-based designer Sinéad O’Dwyer, this year’s winner of the Zalando Visionary Award, chose to show her SS25 collection during the week.


When it came to the trends, designers showed a wide variety, from double denim and Y2K style to ‘quiet luxury’ and updated preppy looks.

Tuxedo Junction



Denim on denim aka the ‘Canadian Tuxedo’ has been trending for a few seasons. Its wearability and versatility have meant that its popularity shows no sign of abating. Copenhagen designers used a variety of weights and washes.

Aiayu: designer, Maria Heilmann



Aiayu SS25 Credits: Aiayu SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 10: a four-button tunic in faded blue denim and matching shorts were shown with black flip-flops.

Marimekko



Marimekko SS25 Credits: Marimekko SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 15: a shirt and matching cropped jeans in blue denim with a stenciled print were shown with socks and sneakers.

Sinéad O’Dwyer



Sinéad O’Dwyer SS25 Credits: Sinéad O’Dwyer SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 11: an oversized dark denim jacket with silver fasteners and a matching pleated micro mini skirt with silver hardware. Denim Mary-Janes finished the look.

Won Hundred: designer, Nikolaj Nielsen



Hundred SS25 Credits: Hundred SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 1: an all-in-one jumper was designed to look like a denim jacket and jeans in faded blue denim and shown with brown boots.

Prep Rally



It would seem that the #ralphcore moment sweeping The USA has reached Denmark with designers showing a series of preppy looks. They included both traditional and updated versions.

Baum und Pferdgarten



Baum und Pferdgarten SS25 Credits: Baum und Pferdgarten SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 21: a rugby shirt in pink and green broad stripes over a white shirt and a sheer mid-length skirt embellished with green sequins. Accessories included square sunglasses, black penny loafers and white socks with lime green stripes.

Marimekko



Marimekko SS25 Credits: Marimekko SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 45: a cotton shift dress in a variety of shirting stripes in lilac, green and orange with socks and sneakers.

OpéraSPORT: designers, Stephanie Gundelach and Awa Malina Stelter



OperaSPORT SS25 Credits: OperaSPORT SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 27: an oversized knit polo top in white, orange and red stripes was shown over a white silk slip with a lace trim. A black belt with rosettes and red sandals completed the look.

Henrik Vibskov



Vibskov SS25 Credits: Vibskov SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 31: a knit dress with a polo collar in a variety of broad and narrow stripes in red, yellow and cream was shown with a cream sweater, olive green hat and scarf combo and two tone orange and brown lace-ups.

Get Shorty



Copenhagen designers showed outfits featuring shorts with the sort of collegiate appeal made popular by Miuccia Prada for her Mui Mui line some seasons ago.

Gestuz: designer, Sanne Sehested



Gestuz SS25 Credits: Gestuz SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 61: an oversized two-button jacket in grey wool and matching short shorts were shown with a silk blouse with an extra wide collar. A small structured handbag and black slouchy boots completed the look.

Filippa K: designer, Anna Teurnell



Filippa K SS25 Credits: Filippa K SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 21: a pale blue knit polo sweater was shown over a striped cotton shirt and cream-colored Bermuda shorts. Accessories included a broad brown leather belt, clutch bag and pointy flats.

Rolf Ekroth



Ekroth SS25 Credits: Ekroth SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 31: an oversized jacket with a combination of Prince of Wales check and banker’s stripes was shown over striped shorts and a blouse with a pussy bow. Blue sneakers and socks finished the look.

Baum und Pferdgarten: designers, Rikke Baumgarten and Helle Hestehave



Baum und Pferdgarten SS25 Credits: Baum und Pferdgarten SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 30: a grey striped oversized blazer with matching shorts was shown with a variegated striped blue and white cotton shirt with a white collar. Accessories included black penny loafers, white logo socks and a grey leather bag.

Stealth Wealth



The understated but smart dressing known as ‘quiet luxury’ is enjoying a trend arc that has expanded into a third year. Copenhagen runways displayed streamlined dresses, separates and trench coats.

Mark Kenly Domino Tan



Domino Tan SS25 Credits: Domino Tan SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 11: a cream-colored skirt with 3-D florals and a self-belt was shown with a crew-necked white top and slip-on flats.

Remain Birger Christensen



Remain SS25 Credits: Remain SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 27: a mock turtle neck satin top and a pleated cotton mid-length skirt with grey peep toe pumps.

Skall Studio: designers, Julie and Marie Skall



Skall Studio SS25 Credits: Skall Studio SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 1: a cream-colored crew neck cotton trench coat with one button and a sash belt over pants in the same color and pointy flats.

Forza Collective: designer, Kristoffer Kongshaug



Forza SS25 Credits: Forza SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 39: a pale blue sleeveless satin top with a matching midi skirt and a pair of patent boots in dark blue and black.

Y2K Nostalgia



Several designers drew inspiration from the 90s and early 2000s. Key elements included oversized denim, crop tops, and sporty silhouettes, updated with a nod toward this summer’s ‘brat’ looks.

Deadwood: designer, Carl Ollson and Felix von Bahder



Deadwood SS25 Credits: Deadwood SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 7: an olive green oversized bomber jacket over cropped layered tees and olive green pants in a techno fabric were shown with flip flops.

(Di)Vision: designers, Nanna & Simon Wick



(Di)Vision SS25 Credits: (Di)Vision SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 47: a cropped two layered cotton tee and matching shorts were shown with baggy overlong dark denim jeans with center inserts and faux fur trim.

Rolf Ekroth



Ekroth SS25 Credits: Ekroth SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 25: a grey hooded sweatshirt under a dark green mohair cardigan decorated with metal pins with brown and grey sweatpants. Accessories included a baseball cap and green sneakers.

Elisabet Stamm



Stamm SS25 Credits: Stamm SS25/©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Look 11: a cropped tee shirt with the word, ‘guilty’ in sequins and a heart shaped badge plus baggy low-slung jeans with a tie dyed and destroyed look.
Blue ribbons, a skinny webbed belt and red sneakers completed the look.

Read more:



* Trends on the street at CPN Fashion Week SS25







* The Brat Aesthetic







* The ‘Preppy Handbook’ SS25 Edition


http://dlvr.it/TBzpmL

Chinese tech giant Alibaba's quarterly profit shrinks 29 percent

Credits: Alibaba



Beijing - Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba reported a 29 percent fall in quarterly profit on Thursday as it battles sluggish consumption during an economic slowdown.


Net income attributable to shareholders came in at 24.3 billion yuan ($3.3 billion) in the quarter ending June 30, Alibaba said in a corporate filing, down from 34.3 billion yuan in the same period in 2023.


Alibaba runs some of China's most popular e-commerce apps and its performance is widely considered an indicator of broader economic trends.


China released another series of disappointing indicators on Thursday, despite recent government measures to boost growth.


Alibaba's revenue for the first quarter was 243.2 billion yuan, up 4 percent from the previous year.


"In this quarter, we continue to invest for growth in our core businesses while reducing losses in other business units through operating efficiency," chief financial officer Toby Xu said in the filing.


Alibaba made $5.8 billion of share repurchases in the first quarter, part of an effort to reassure investors amid narrowing profits. Its results contrasted starkly with rival shopping app operator JD.com, which announced a whopping 92.1 percent increase in profit for the past quarter.


Growing rivalry




Thursday's results come at a time when Alibaba is increasingly being challenged by Pinduoduo, another shopping app whose parent company owns internationally popular budget shopping app Temu.


As sluggish growth hits consumers' wallets, more shoppers are turning to generally lower-priced items on the Pinduoduo app rather than Alibaba's Taobao and Tmall platforms.


The change in shopping habits briefly caused Pinduoduo's parent company to overtake Alibaba in market capitalisation in November.


Alibaba's charismatic founder Jack Ma, who has retired from his role at the group, has urged his successors to adapt to new consumer preferences.


The firm launched the biggest restructuring in its history last year, splitting the group into six distinct entities and replacing CEO Daniel Zhang.


The reorganisation came after several years of turbulence in China's tech sector as authorities cracked down on what was formerly a loosely regulated industry.


Uncertainty about Alibaba's future development has persisted ever since top leaders in Beijing scuttled a planned IPO of its financial services arm, Ant Group, in late 2020.


The cancelled public listing -- which would likely have been the biggest in history -- was followed a month later by an announcement that Alibaba was under formal investigation in China for alleged monopolistic practices.


Chinese retail sales rebounded in July while industrial production growth slowed, according to official data released earlier on Thursday, highlighting an uneven recovery in the world's second-largest economy (AFP).


http://dlvr.it/TBzWLr

UK inflation edges up in July for first time this year

Leeds, UK, shopping street. Credits: Unsplash



After a promising few months of falling inflation in the UK, it appears that such an outcome wasn’t able to extend into July 2024, with headline inflation once again rising to 2.2 percent.


This is according to the latest CPI figures, collected by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), which showed that, despite food inflation remaining unchanged at 1.5 percent, overarching inflation rose for the first time this year.


An uptick could be seen among almost all categories, including clothing and footwear, for which inflation rose from 1.6 percent in June to 2 percent. Prices for this category, however, were all down on the month before, as noted by Kris Hamer, director of insight of the British Retail Consortium (BRC).


Elaborating on the results, Hamer said: “Despite prices falling month-on-month, headline inflation returned above the Bank of England’s 2 percent target. This was mainly driven by slowing deflation for gas and electricity bills, which had seen big price drops in July 2023 compared to this year.”


He added that, with headline inflation “showing signs of rising further”, retailers could possibly be facing another increase in business rates next year.


Hamer continued: “This penalises the retail industry, as retail products currently have generally lower inflation levels than the headline figure on which business rates rises are based. The Government should buy into retail by ending the 14 years of Conservative business rates rises, which have seen the multiplier increase by a third since 2010, harming the viability of many high street stores across the country.”


http://dlvr.it/TBxY0w

Michel Germain Parfums unveils ‘Emily in Paris’ fragrance

Beauty


‘Emily in Paris’ fragrance Credits: Michel Germain Parfums Ltd



Prestige fragrance house Michel Germain Parfums has unveiled a new fragrance collection with Paramount Consumer Products inspired by the ‘Emily in Paris’ Netflix series.


The fragrance launch coincides with the new Season 4 of the show, created by Darren Star, centred around marketing exec Emily’s adventure in the French capital, juggling work, friends and romance.


There are four scents for women and a men’s fragrance, designed to embody the “spirit of the show,” evoking the allure of Paris with modern, playful notes that reflect Emily’s life.


‘Emily in Paris’ fragrance collection Credits: Michel Germain Parfums Ltd



The signature ‘Emily in Paris’ eau de parfum is a floral woody scent featuring notes of seductive Neroli, French pear, wild blackcurrant Burgundy, Parisian rose, heady Jasmin and feminine soft Lily of the Valley for a “pure femininity, Paris style”.


The ‘Emily in Paris Heartfelt’ scent embraces love, forever with wild strawberries crushed in sparkling Champagne with notes of fruity lychee, while ‘Emily in Paris Romantic’ offers crisp green apple with a feminine pink peony and blooming magnolia scent, and ‘Emily in Paris Je t'aime’ is playful and feminine with a mix of pink pepper, raspberry, French rose and gardenia.


In addition, each bottle has been designed to reflect the stylish aesthetic of the TV show, wrapped in Emily’s iconic birthday dress bow and featuring delicate Parisian motifs.


There is also a men’s eau de toilette ‘Emily in Paris Pour Homme’ dedicated to Emily’s love interest in the show Gabriel, with notes of cardamom, lavender, sage, and sandalwood, housed in a sophisticated, dark, masculine bottle.


Michel Germain, creator and chief executive of Michel Germain Parfums Ltd, said in a statement: "Each ‘Emily in Paris’ fragrance has been meticulously blended to capture the essence of Parisian romance, infused with the effervescent joy, life, and love that the series embodies."


The ‘Emily in Paris’ fragrance collection is available on MichelGermain.com.


http://dlvr.it/TBxXp2

Former EU Commissioner Günther Oettinger to advise Shein

Shein's Singapore offices. Credits: Shein.



Former EU Commissioner Günther Oettinger will lobby for Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein. Oettinger is to advise Shein on the political climate in the European Union, as reported by Dutch media platform NOS on Wednesday. The Chinese fast-fashion giant is trying to improve its reputation against the backdrop of a planned IPO in London.


Shein has been trying to go public for some time. The Chinese fast-fashion giant first tried in New York, but the application submitted to the US authorities in June 2023 was rejected in November. Shein then set its sights on a stock exchange listing in London.


Here, and in Europe as a whole, the controversial company has also been facing challenges, however. For example, the European Union is examining options for adapting the legislation for duty-free import of cheap products.


For advice, Shein has turned to Oettinger, who held top positions in the EU between 2010 and 2019, said NOS. He has previously served as an EU Commissioner, so he has important contacts and knows exactly how things work in Brussels.


This translated article previously appeared on FashionUnited.NL.


http://dlvr.it/TBxXVD

Puma names Johan Kuhlo as managing director of GCC

Johan Kuhlo Credits: Puma



Sports company Puma has appointed Johan Kuhlo as the managing director of GCC.


Puma also announced that Taner Seyis, 47, who was previously in charge of the Middle East, including the GCC countries, will now lead the newly founded area Turkey & Levant. This area includes Turkey, Azerbaijan, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq. Seyis, who has worked for Puma for nine years, will continue to report to Freundt.


“Given our strong growth trajectory and growth ambition in the Middle East, we decided to realign the territories and management responsibilities to ensure we have sufficient focus and resources to realise the potential in each market and provide the best service to our retail partners,” said Freundt.


The company said in a statement that starting September 1, Kuhlo, 43, will oversee the major markets UAE and Saudi Arabia, as well as Qatar, Kuwait and Oman. He will report directly to Puma CEO Arne Freundt.


Kuhlo, who has been with Puma since 2015, has held various positions in the company including head of corporate strategy and investor relations. Most recently, the company added, he worked as managing director EEMEA distribution, where he oversaw more than 40 Markets in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa.


“Johan has shown an impressive track record, rapidly growing our business in EEMEA distribution while strengthening our brand, operations and strategy. Taner has built up our credibility in the Middle East with successful new partnerships and established a strong foundation, so I’m confident we have the right people in place to elevate our brand in these important regions” Freundt added


Additionally, Puma said, Peter Dangl, 37, will become director EEMEA distribution and succeed Kuhlo. Dangl has been with the company for 15 years and previously worked as head of product line management Sportstyle Apparel before becoming director sales EEMEA distribution.


http://dlvr.it/TBxGB8

Tyler Mitchell to be honoured at The Fashion Awards

Tyler Mitchell portrait Credits: Tyler Mitchell / BFC



The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced that acclaimed artist, photographer and filmmaker Tyler Mitchell will receive the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator at The Fashion Awards 2024, taking place on December 2 at Royal Albert Hall, London.


Mitchell, whose work introduces new narratives about beauty and desire, while embracing history and the future, is being honoured for his “incredible contribution to fashion, photography and culture,” said the BFC in a statement.


Caroline Rush, chief executive of the British Fashion Council, said: “Mitchell’s work is incredibly innovative and progressive, telling the authentic and nuanced stories of those from Black identities. Always ahead of the curve, he consistently challenges the industry’s perceptions of beauty and fashion imagery – striving to make it more reflective of real life. We look forward to celebrating with him in December.”


Mitchell’s work is held in numerous private and public collections, including The Museum of Modern Art, New York, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the National Portrait Gallery, London, and has been widely published in magazines, including AnOther Magazine, Dazed, GQ, i-D, Interview Magazine, M Le Monde, Vanity Fair, Vogue UK, Vogue US, W Magazine and WSJ. He has also collaborated commercially with prominent brands such as Ferragamo, Gucci, JW Anderson, Loewe, Louis Vuitton and Wales Bonner.


Commenting on the honour, Mitchell added: "Receiving the Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator is an honour that resonates deeply with me. It affirms the necessity and power of storytelling through the beautiful marriage of image-making and fashion. And it affirms the importance of creating spaces where new voices and visions can flourish.


“This award is a reminder that fashion is not just about what we wear, but about how we see ourselves and the world. I am humbled and grateful to the British Fashion Council for this recognition, and I share it with all those who inspire and support me on this journey."


The Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator recognises innovators and creatives in fashion who have helped to change the fashion landscape. Previous winners include Campbell Addy, Edward Enninful, Ib Kamara, Katie Grand, Amanda Harlech, Mert & Marcus, Nick Knight, Pat McGrath, Louise Wilson and Sam McKnight.


http://dlvr.it/TBxFzw

Puma under pressure: Disappointing results and falling shares

A$AP Rocky x Puma's latest F1-inspired collection. Credits: Puma.



German sportswear giant Puma is going through a tough time. Despite CEO Arne Freundt's claims that the company is on track, second-quarter results have sparked a backlash from investors, sending its share price to a six-year low.


While Puma posted a turnover of 2.12 billion euros in the second quarter, slightly down on the previous year, while currency-adjusted sales saw a growth of 2.1 percent. However, the operating profit (EBIT) came below market expectations, fueling investor skepticism.


The strong appreciation of the dollar weighed on Puma's results, prompting investors to be more cautious. Despite the commercial success of its new model of sports shoes, sponsored by sprinter Usain Bolt, the company had to adjust its profit forecasts downwards.


A strategy called into question




Comparison with rival Adidas, under the leadership of former Puma CEO Bjorn Gulden, highlights the brand's struggles. Despite product launches and strategic partnerships, Puma is struggling to convince investors of the strength of its business model.


The global economic environment, marked by inflation and uncertainty, as well as increased competition in the sports sector, are weighing on Puma's performance. The brand must overcome many challenges to regain investor confidence and restart its growth.


Despite management's efforts to reassure the markets, Puma is going through difficult months. Second-quarter results, below market expectations, have eroded investor confidence.


http://dlvr.it/TBtxtd

Wood Wood brings in menswear designer from Samsøe Samsøe

Wood Wood FW24 collection. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight



Danish fashion brand Wood Wood has appointed Gitte Wetter as head of design for menswear. The brand, which was recently rescued from bankruptcy by DK Company, also announced that Morten Dybdahl will take the lead as brand director. According to his profile on the career network Linkedin, he has been in this position since the takeover in April.


While Dybdahl will be responsible for the leadership and day-to-day management of Wood Wood, Wetter will be responsible for the label's menswear offering in close collaboration with creative director and co-founder Brian SS Jensen. In her role, she will ensure the continued development of the two lines under the Wood Wood brand, the Mainline and Double A by Wood Wood, according to the statement.


Wetter is moving to Wood Wood from the Copenhagen brand Samsøe Samsøe, where she worked as a menswear designer for over 15 years, according to her Linkedin profile.


http://dlvr.it/TBtxnS

European subsidiary of Teijin Frontier opens Paris showroom amid expansion plans

The interior of Teijin Frontier's Paris showroom. Credits: Teijin Frontier.



High performance fibre producer Teijin Frontier has announced that its European subsidiary, Teijin Frontier Europe GmbH, has opened a new showroom in Paris as part of the firm’s plans to expand its fashion business in the region.


The showroom houses and displays Teijin Frontier’s fabric collection and products, including its Ecopet polyester fibre, made with recycled post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and its Solotex polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT) fibre.


Collaborations with Teijin Frontier’s Japanese suppliers will also be on display via applications, highlighting their clients’ brands in an exhibition that will change seasonally and will adjust to evolving customer needs.


In a release, the firm said: “By opening a showroom in the fashion capital of the Western world, Teijin Frontier aims to increase its presence as a fibre supplier to the French and European markets.


“Furthermore, by encouraging customers to visit and learn about its products, Teijin Frontier hopes to uncover new needs and trends, which will be used to guide development of new products and solve customer issues.”


Teijin Frontier already has a firm place among the European market, and has previously been counted among one of the affiliate partners of Fashion for Good, a Dutch initiative supporting the rise of a circular fashion industry.


Through the partnership, Teijin Frontier set out to evaluate the quality of chemically recycled polyester pellets made from textile wastes manufactured by innovators of Fashion for Good, while further manufacturing and evaluating the quality of sustainable filament yarns.


http://dlvr.it/TBtxWl

Go Outdoors to open biggest European store in York, strikes deal with American Golf

Credits: Go Outdoors via Facebook



Outerwear retailer Go Outdoors is preparing to open what it says will be its biggest European store in York this month, in the UK city’s Vangarde Shopping Centre.


Set to open its doors on August 23, the 127,000 square foot location, spanning two floors, used to once house a John Lewis store, which ultimately closed during pandemic-induced lockdowns.


It marks a relocation for Go Outdoors, which is moving in from its Foss Bank site, from which a number of employees will be relocating.


In a statement to the press, CEO of the retailer, Lee Bagnall, said: “I am extremely excited and proud to open the biggest outdoor store in Europe.


"I am thrilled to be able to bring the very best brands, products and services to our customers in York, in our new game changing flagship store.”


The news was announced ahead of the revelation that Go Outdoors had struck up a new partnership with American Golf, as part of the golf brand’s expansion plans.


As such, its first concession within Go Outdoors will open in the retailer’s Gloucester location on August 22, and will feature services such as free custom fittings and product repairs. Employees from the brand’s recently closed Cheltenham store have been re-deployed to the site in order to provide such services.


In a post on LinkedIn, where the news was announced, Elaine Wrigley, retail, operations and people director at American Golf, said: “The store represents a significant step in our broader strategy to enhance our presence and accessibility across the UK.


“The sheer popularity of the GO Outdoors brand and their footprint across the country, offers an amazing opportunity to introduce the game of golf to a wider audience.”


http://dlvr.it/TBtxHS

Crown Laboratories to merge with Revance Therapeutics

Beauty


PanOxyl product line for acne-prone skin Credits: Crown Laboratories



Skincare company Crown Laboratories has entered a merger agreement with biotechnology company Revance Therapeutics to set a new standard in healthcare with innovative aesthetic and therapeutic offerings.


The merger would see the creation of “an innovative, high-growth aesthetics and skincare company,” featuring a portfolio of more than 10 brands, including Daxxify (toxin), the RHA Collection (filler), SkinPen (microneedling), PanOxyl (acne), Blue Lizard (sunscreen), and StriVectin (anti-ageing).


Under the terms of the agreement, Crown Laboratories will acquire all outstanding shares of Revance's common stock for 6.66 US dollars per share in cash, representing a total enterprise value of 924 million US dollars.


The purchase price represents a premium of 89 percent over Revance's closing market price on August 9 and a 111 percent premium to Revance's 60-day volume-weighted average price. The transaction is expected to close by year-end.


Jeff Bedard, founder and chief executive officer of Crown Laboratories, said in a statement: "This is a significant step forward in Crown's vision to become a fully integrated global aesthetics and skincare company, bringing innovative solutions to physicians, patients and consumers in the incredibly dynamic aesthetics and skincare market.


"Revance has an impressive track record in developing innovative aesthetics offerings that will complement Crown's innovative line of skincare products. As a combined company, we have the opportunity to create a comprehensive portfolio of high-growth products for all stages of life, and we will be committed to investing in education, training, and practice support for aesthetics providers across the United States."


Mark J. Foley, president and chief executive officer of Revance, added: "Over the past several years, Revance has brought to the market innovative aesthetic and therapeutic offerings that have elevated patient and physician experiences. We are excited about this transaction and to be joining forces with Crown Laboratories, which will enable us to broaden our provider network as well as provide us with an expanded portfolio of products.


“We also believe that the merger provides substantial value for our stockholders. Crown shares our commitment to innovation and scale and will help us accelerate our growth. Scale and product breadth are important factors in the markets in which we compete and, by combining with Crown, we will be able to offer our customers a more compelling range of products and services while, at the same time, benefiting from the combined strength of our collective commercial organisations."


http://dlvr.it/TBtx26

Ariana Grande unveils new region-specific fragrance collection

Ariana Grande ‘Lovenotes’ fragrance collection in partnership with Luxe Brands Credits: Ariana Grande / Luxe Brands photographed by Carljin Jacobs



Beauty


Grammy-winning artist and actress Ariana Grande has unveiled a new international multi-fragrance collection in partnership with prestige beauty company Luxe Brands.


The new fragrance line called ‘Lovenotes’ has been developed in collaboration with esteemed fragrance houses Robertet and International Flavors and Fragrances and will offer region-specific scents for the UK, Europe, North America and Australia, aimed at delivering "a love letter from Ariana to the world”.


On the collection, Grande said in a statement: "I'm so excited for the launch of this fragrance collection that is so incredibly unique for me. It is more expansive and bold than anything we have ever done and I am very excited about this opportunity to deliver these little letters of love to my fans all over the world, via scent.”


Ariana Grande ‘Lovenotes’ fragrance collection in partnership with Luxe Brands Credits: Ariana Grande / Luxe Brands photographed by Carljin Jacobs



The line includes four scents, including ‘Vanilla Suede,’ an “addictive and delectable” scent, which will be exclusive to the UK with notes of vanilla bean and sandalwood. It will launch in beauty retailer Boots on August 14 ahead of a full rollout in the autumn.


For Europe, German perfumery and cosmetics chain, Douglas and Nocibe in France will launch the exclusive ‘Angels Kiss’ fragrance with a blend of berries and rose water gelato on August 19.


In North America, ‘Pink Woods’ with notes of Italian Bergamot, lotus flower and the tonka bean will launch online on September 15 and in stores at Ulta, Sephora, and Kohl’s on September 27 in the US. In Canada, the fragrance will be available from Sephora.com from September 15 and Shoppers Drug Mart from August September 29 and from department store Liverpool in Mexico from October 1.


There will also be a distinctive exclusive multi-dimensional floral scent for Australia, ‘Pressed Petals’ that will offer a blend of bergamot and lemon. Exact details of its launch date and distribution have not been announced.


Each of the fragrances will be presented in an A-shaped glass bottle, finished with a rose gold metalised plate resting on the shoulder, which has been designed to pay homage to Ariana Grande's first original fragrance bottle.


Grande said: “Each of these stunningly crafted scents have been designed to evoke the many different moods and phases of Love. It is a celebration of love and intimacy of all beautiful kinds: romantic love, platonic love, self-love.


People from around the globe will be able to experience these little, unique, bottled messages of Love and know that somewhere else, not too, too far away, others are also feeling the whimsy of love, in their own individual way, while enjoying their own delicious and magical scent.”


Noreen Dodge, chief marketing officer and chief commercial officer of Luxe Brands added: "With over a decade of developing and creating iconic fragrances together that have resonated with consumers around the world, we were inspired to push the boundaries with a unique approach to this launch.


"Ariana is considered amongst an elite class of perfume innovators and this collection personifies Ari's passion and love for fragrance and creating beautiful products for her fans".


http://dlvr.it/TBrZf7

Banana Republic opens new premium store concept

In Pictures


Banana Republic Westfield Century City store in Los Angeles Credits: Banana Republic



Fashion and lifestyle retailer Banana Republic, part of Gap Inc., has reopened its Westfield Century City location in Los Angeles as a new premium lifestyle store concept.


In a statement, the retailer said the new concept invites shoppers “to explore Banana Republic’s elevated aesthetic, rooted in rich storytelling and exploration,” blending fashion, art, and global culture.


Banana Republic Westfield Century City store in Los Angeles Credits: Banana Republic



The store has a coastal vibe that aims to offer elegance and comfort by welcoming the outdoors in, with Venetian plaster walls, brass accents, and white oak floors. The concept was designed in collaboration with renowned architect and interior designer Noa Santos of Nainoa, with artwork curated by creative advisor Jacqueline Schnabel and the in-house Banana Republic team.


Banana Republic Westfield Century City store in Los Angeles Credits: Banana Republic



Banana Republic hopes that the newly elevated store design and retail experience will create an immersive backdrop for consumers to discover the brand’s latest fashion, art and home collections, while also offering a range of premium services, including a spacious, open-seating fitting room lounge with dedicated styling area, and an in-house tailor.


The newly designed store follows the reopening of the brand’s New York City flagship store in SoHo earlier this spring.


Banana Republic Westfield Century City store in Los Angeles Credits: Banana Republic



Banana Republic Westfield Century City store in Los Angeles Credits: Banana Republic



Banana Republic Westfield Century City store in Los Angeles Credits: Banana Republic



Banana Republic Westfield Century City store in Los Angeles Credits: Banana Republic



Banana Republic Westfield Century City store in Los Angeles Credits: Banana Republic


http://dlvr.it/TBpWYY

Chantecaille expands Asian presence with Tmall

Beauty


Chantecaille logo Credits: Chantecaille



New York-based prestige beauty brand Chantecaille, acquired by Beiersdorf in 2022, is expanding its footprint in Asia with a new domestic partnership with Alibaba Group’s online retail platform, Tmall.


In a statement, Chantecaille said the move would bring its botanically-based skincare and cosmetics products to a broader audience, while enhancing its presence in the Chinese market.


Vincent Warnery, chief executive officer of Beiersdorf, said: "Tmall offers a seamless shopping experience and unparalleled reach for Chantecaille's innovative beauty. The new market opening strengthens Chantecaille's position in China, bolstering our commitment to the Chinese consumer.


"The partnership with Tmall enables Chantecaille to leverage the platform's extensive reach and sophisticated e-commerce capabilities, ensuring that Chinese consumers can easily access the brand's luxurious product offerings."


Chantecaille will have a dedicated flagship store on Tmall, offering a wide range of the brand's products, including its skincare and make-up collections.


Emily Coleman, chief executive officer of Chantecaille, added: "We believe there are consumers across China who have appetite for luxuriously clean beauty, which is what makes Chantecaille so unique.


"Under our 'Beauty with Impact' ethos, they will have greater access to our high-performance botanically powered skincare & make-up formulations which remain cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. Tmall is the perfect partner to help us reach those new consumers, not only from a reach perspective, but because they are also dedicated to quality and customer satisfaction."


In addition, to expand its reach and connect with Chinese consumers, Chantecaille will also host an immersive pop-up experience in Shanghai's landmark Xintiandi to share its 'Beauty with Impact' ethos. The 'Maison Chantecaille' pop-up will be the first-of-its-kind for the brand and will provide Chinese consumers with the chance to explore and purchase Chantecaille products in “an immersive, luxurious setting”.


Following this initial pop-up, Chantecaille will extend the 'Maison Chantecaille' experience with a three-month commercial pop-up in Shanghai.


Chantecaille, founded by Sylvie Chantecaille in 1997, offers innovative skincare, fragrance and cosmetics products based on botanical ingredients combining efficacious formulas with a strong focus on sustainability and philanthropy. When it was acquired by Beiersdorf, the beauty group said it would accelerate the brand’s growth in the North American and Asian markets.


http://dlvr.it/TBpWF1

Frasers announces retirement of non-executive director David Brayshaw

Sportsdirect Birmingham Credits: Frasers Group media centre



Frasers Group has announced the retirement of non-executive director David Brayshaw effective from August 12, 2024, after nearly eight years of service.


Commenting on Brayshaw’s retirement, David Daly, board chair of Frasers Group, said in a statement: "With over thirty years' of experience as a senior investment and commercial banker, David has made an invaluable contribution to the business. On behalf of the board, I would like to sincerely thank him for his efforts."


The company’s board now comprises Michael Murray, chief executive officer; Chris Wootton, chief financial officer; David Al-Mudallal, chief operating officer; Ger Wright, managing director, sports; David Daly, non-executive chair of the board; Nicola Frampton, non-executive director; Richard Bottomley, non-executive director; Helen Wright, non-executive director; Sir Jon Thompson, non-executive director; and Cally Price, non-executive workforce director and workers representative.


http://dlvr.it/TBpVt0

After strong Q1, E.l.f. Beauty raises full year outlook

E.l.f. Cosmetics Bitmoji Beauty Drop Credits: Snapchat



First quarter net sales at E.l.f. Beauty increased 50 percent to 324.5 million dollars, driven by strength in both retailer and e-commerce channels.


Raising its full year forecast after a strong first quarter, the company said it now expects a 25to 27 percent increase in net sales to 1,280 to 1,300 million dollars.


Adjusted EBITDA is expected to range between 297 to 301 million dollars, adjusted net income between 198 to 201 million dollars and adjusted diluted earnings per share in the range of 3.36 to 3.41 dollars.


Commenting on the first quarter trading, Tarang Amin, E.l.f. Beauty’s chairman and CEO said in a statement: “This marked our 22nd consecutive quarter of both net sales growth and market share gains--putting e.l.f. Beauty in a rarified group of high growth consumer companies.”


The company’s gross margin for the first quarter increased approximately 80 basis points to 71 percent, net income was 47.6 million dollars on a GAAP basis, while adjusted net income was 64.3 million dollars. Diluted earnings per share were 81 cents on a GAAP basis and adjusted diluted earnings per share were 1.10 dollars.


Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was 77.4 million dollars or 24 percent of net sales, up 4 percent year over year.


http://dlvr.it/TBpCsv