Hello 2024, I'm back. January held a very remarkable Couture Fashion week that was held in Paris, in addition to designers creating more collabs and entering into new markets.

1. Dior opens first luxury spa in Dubai:

 Luxury maison Dior is set to open its first spa in the Middle East, in the city of Dubai to make its debut in the region. The spa will hold a treatment list including facial services for women and men, muscle released-focused services, D-sculpt for body firming, hydrafacials, in addition to retailing luxury beauty products.

2. Victoria & Albert Museum holds Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel Exhibition:

“Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto” will now run until March 10, held in London. The first U.K. exhibition dedicated to the French fashion designer Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. The exhibition charts six decades of Chanel’s career.

3. Swarovski Launches Valentine's Day Capsule With Marina Raphael: 

Marina Raphael, the accessories brand, is celebrating love in all shapes and sizes with the new capsule collection of micro bags in collaboration with Swarovski Creators Lab honors a heritage of technical and creative mastery. 

4. Pucci Drops Yoga Capsule Collection:

After launching its second ski capsule collection, Pucci is now embracing asanas in style, dropping a dedicated yoga line, practical as it is fashionable. Adorned in the fashion house's classic Marmo print and deep blue tones and whimsical, wavy lines.

A homage to "the elegance and freedom of movement". Available at Mytheresa and Pucci.com.

5. Highlights from the SS24 Haute Couture shows:

Just as it should be, the couture fashion week kept us on our toes, kept telling us stories through the eyes of many and presented us with a piece that transferred us into each designer's imagination, Haute Couture is always about pushing limits and diving into a creative facet, and this year sure delivered.

• John Paul Gaultier reaction to Simone Rocha designing a collection for his brand.

•  Maison Margella theatrical take on Brassai's 1920s and '30s portraits of the night- time underbelly of Paris's clubs and streets. John Galliano took us through an underground door- and into a rancid Parisian nighttime.

• Alaia elegance, innovative laser cut and quite luxury.

• Arab designers took everyone's breath, The theme behind Tony Ward's collection was smart, inspired by the golden ratio, which is a math believed to be found everywhere in life.

• Schiaperelli surrealist sci-fi Western spring haute couture collection.

 We are in the middle of summer and I couldn't be happier, these days bring a lot of excitement and joy, especially with the fashion industry. And today we will go through some of the fashion highlights and updates during June.

1. Kipling collaborates with Barbie:

  Bag and accessories brand Kipling has unveiled a collaboration with fashion doll Barbie, it includes eight bags and two accessories, including a limited-edition Barbie doll keyring.

   What a better way to relive our Barbie's dream in a more fashion driven and mature way?

  The launch timing is also good with the release of the new Barbie movie.

2. Angelina Jolie teams up with Chloe:

Angelina Jolie unveiled a new purpose-driven sustainable fashion label, Atelier Jolie.

And as explained by the brand Chloe:

"Co-designed by Chloé Creative Director Gabriela Hearst and Atelier Jolie founder Angelina Jolie, the capsule collection spotlights authentic women-to-women connections and honours both brands’ respective commitments to improving social and environmental sustainability with greater transparency and accountability. ​"

3. Simon Miller x Mango:

  California-cool brand Simon Miller, known for its vibrant use of color and festive designs launched a summer capsule collection with the Spanish-based brand Mango." Inspired by the care-free spirit and deep blue hues of the Mediterranean sea, the collection captures the two brands' ethos."

  The 73-piece collection launched May 22.

4. Clinique x Kate Spade:

  Prestige beauty brand Clinique has unveiled its first-ever collaboration with fashion and lifestyle designer brand Kate Spade New York. The collaboration includes Kate Spade’s vibrant patterns: springtime florals, stripes, kisses, and graphic polka dots.

  The collection is available on clinique.com, Macy's and Belk in the US, and Shoppers in Canada.

5. Dior Cruise 2024 collection:

  Dior unveiled its Cruise 2024 collection reflecting the heritage of the museum’s home country of Mexico.

The iconic venue for the show was selected due to its ties to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, who was at the core of creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri’s latest collection and had studied at the famed cultural centre.

6. Versace collaborates with Dua Lipa in Cannes:

Versace presented its cruise 2023 collection in Cannes. The collection was co-designed with singer Dua Lipa featuring heritage butterfly prints, pastel hues and house codes from the ‘90s.

The high summer collection entitled ‘La Vacanza’ showcased Donatella Versace’s and Dua Lipa’s shared vision of an elegant Italian vacation.

 1. Sandro launches collection with Louis Barthelemy:

  

French fashion brand Sandro is collaborating with French artist and designer Louis Berthelemy as part of the brand's SS23 collection. Berthelemy is a designer, an illustrator and a textile designer. The collection will include 11 pieces of ready-to-wear and accessories.

2. Jacquemus and Saks exclusive capsule collection:

  Parisian fashion brand 'Jacquemus' has teamed up with Saks, the luxury retailer, on an exclusive SS 23 limited edition collection  "E'te'".

  The collection gives a nod to the French Reviera. It includes men's and women's ready-to-wear, handbags and hats. To celebrate the launch, Jacquemus will take over the window display of Saks Fifth Avenue Beverley Hills.

3. Netflix × Lacoste collection:

  Lacoste has teamed up with Netflix to create a limited edition collection inspired by its TV shows like 'Stranger Things ',  'Bridgerton', and 'The Witcher'.

  The Lacoste crocodile has been reimagined in different ways according to each show. 

4.  Hermès opens new factories to meet handbag demand: 

  As the demand for luxury handbags soars especially for Hermès, the company has decided to open three leather goods factories in France.

  Hermès had invested heavily on local manufacturing to increase production. The increasing demand in the past 3 years has led the company to open 10 leather goods factories.

5. The 2023 Met Gala celebrated "Karl Lagerfeld": 

This year's Met Gala paid homage to the iconic designer who shaped the fashion world with his unparalleled vision and creativity. Lagerfeld's timeless elegance and innovative designs graced the runways of renowned fashion houses like Chanel, Fendi, and Chloé, leaving his mark on the industry.

6. Zolando x Paco Rabanne:

  Fashion house Paco Rabanne is launching an exclusive capsule collection inspired by its “strong DNA” in collaboration with e-tailer Zalando on April 12.

The 40-piece ‘The Capsule by Paco Rabanne’ will offer the brand’s signature chained bags, disc-inspired skirts, tops and dresses in bold colour shades for spring/summer 2023.

 Hello Spring and hello to a new exciting things happening in the fashion industry. 

1. H&M collaborates with Mugler:

Launching May 11, a first look into the collaboration was unveiled recently and it's not disappointing. The collection encapsulate an essence of Mugler very clearly. It will include womenswear, menswear and accessories at a high-street price. The preparation for the collaboration started before the passing of Thierry Mugler back in January 2022.

2. Prada Caffe pop-up at Harrods:

Prada launched a temporary exhibition and cafe at Harrods, celebrating the brand's 100 year anniversary. The interior is inspired by Prada's flagship Milanese boutique. The pop-up is available until the end of 2023.

3. Mango launches 'Capsule' events collection:

Spanish retailer Mango will launch an occasion wear collection called 'Capsule'. As as a response to focus on more formal dressing like dresses, jumpsuits and tow-piece tailoring.

4. Balmain x Beyonce Haute Couture Collaboration:

Balmain launched an haute couture collaboration with Beyonce' this month.  The inspiration was found from the singer's album 'Renaissance' to create 16 designs. The collection includes Balmain house signature with classic Parisian savoir-faire and the joy and genius of the album.

5. Luxury brands choose hand-painting for advertising:

  While AI-generated artwork and digital media solutions dominate the world of contemporary advertising,  hand painting is taking an important role recently especially for Gucci.

  L’oreal, Hermès, Burberry, are some of top clients that have adopted hand-painted murals into their advertising budget. 80 percent of their luxury clients will consider hand-painted while also purchasing digital media and incorporating AI-generative art into their creative strategies. 

6. Luxury brands and their over exposure:

Due to post-pandemic growth,  luxury brands are now overexposed. As BOF explained "This, they worry, threatens the delicate balancing act at the core of the modern luxury industry, a global business that sells millions of units a year but depends on the perception of exclusivity to cultivate consumer desire." This is affected also by the rise of resale platforms.

First chapter of 2023 came to an end. It's officially the middle of deep winter and there's no better time to read and enjoy a hot cup of coffee. 

1. LoveShackFancy launches active wear line:

LoveShackFancy brand known for their vintage feminine and girly style are launching their own active wear line. Their pieces will combine their signature floral prints with high quality materials. The collection contains 9 styles for "girls on the go".

2. Pretty Little Things new showroom and office space in London: 

Fast fashion retailer announced an opening of a new location in London, Oxford Circus. Set to launch mid-April, the space will have a private showroom and a content creator hub. It will also include a photo studio, working offices, and meeting rooms.

3. Tiffany & Co. unveils a collaboration with Nike:

Jewellery brand Tiffany & Co. has entered a new domain by collaborating with sportswear brand Nike. Under the name ' Legendary pair', the sneaker design features a black suede contrasting a Nike swoosh in Tiffany's signature blue as well as a co-branded solver detail above the heel. Set to release on March 7. 

4. Tiffany &Co. collaborates with Fendi:

Another Tiffany &Co collaboration that was released earlier this month.  Tiffany &Co and Fendi have released a limited edition "Tiffany Blue" Baguette Bag to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the iconic Fendi Baguette bag that was created in 1997. The bag was name after it's attitude,  as it's meant to be worn under the arm like a baguette loaf. 

  The 'Tiffany Blue' bag will come in leather and silk satin , nano and medium size.

5. Clarks teams up with Zara:

Clarks has teamed up with the world’s biggest fashion retailer, Zara for a new collaboration which sees both its classic Wallabee and Dessert Boot reinvented.

The collection features men’s, women’s and kids wear options, has been “the interpretation of the iconic models by using chunky crepe soles to make it unique”.

Clarks has launched 15 new styles which are available to buy online and in stores.

6. Megan Hess launches new Fashion Books:

  Fashion illustrator and writer Megan Hess Mis known for her iconic style. Her work have  been used in a global campaigns for Fendi, Prada, Cartier, Dior and Salvator Ferragamo.

"The Bag" and "The Shoe" books are illustrated books about the most stylish, timeless and useful pieces through out the years.

"The Little Black Dress" is an illustrated  book about fashion's most enduring and chic uniform, celebrating the designers, the women and of course the dresses

  

2022 came to an end, and it's time for a December fashion report. Wrapping up the fashion news for the year and welcoming the new year in preparation for a new fashion week,  and another year of ups, downs, challenges  and opportunities the fashion  industry. 

1. Jimmy Choo x Timberland:

Both are a very well known shoe brand and both are very different. Jimmy Choo and Timberland decided to go for a second collaboration after the success of the first one. The collaboration is inspired by the city of New York, featuring the iconic Timberland Boota which is re-imagined by Jimmy Choo.

2. Disney celebrates 100th anniversary with Givenchy collection:

  Disney has teamed up with luxury brand Givenchy to celebrate their 100th anniversary. The collection was inspired by archival character "Oswald the Lucky Rabbit". The result is a capsule collection with a statement pieces that capture the spirit of adventure.

3. Golden Goose x Swarovski:

  Swarovski 'Creators lab' platform has teamed up with sneakers brand Golden Goose to launch a limited edition collection embellished with Swarovski crystals. The collection launched this December 13th.

4. Moulin Souires "Emily in Paris" shoe collection:

  Luxury footwear brand Moulin Souires revealed a capsule collection with "Emily in Paris". The collaboration embodies the spirit and stylish 'Joi de vivre'. The styles of the shoes takes inspiration from the characters of the show, there's "The Camille" shoe, "The Mindy", "The Elfie"... their styles resemble the personality of each character. The collection has launched December 6th.

5. Elie Saab launches lingerie with Aubade:

  French lingerie brand 'Aubade' and haute couture house Elie Saab are collaborating on 3 capsule collections of "elaborate" lingerie and nightwear. Launching July 2023, the collection will combine "the seductive ambiance" of Elie Saab along with "the feminine signature" of Aubade.

6. Net a Porter x Christian Louboutin:

Net a Porter and Christian Louboutin have teamed up for an exclusive festive capsule collection. The collection includes platforms, block-heel sandals with velvet and satin textures. The collection will be sold exclusively on net a porter.

 It's December, first days of the magical month. And time for another fashion report covering fashion highlights for last month.

1. Michael Kors capsule collection with Ellesse:

  For the second time, Michael Kors has collaborated with the brand Ellesse to create ski wear collection.

  The campaign's "chic apres-ski" images bring the collection sporty and glamorous feel. The collection includes a color palette of feiry oranges and reds with a classic shade of navy blue and crisp white. And pieces featured were jackets, puffrrs, track pants and leggings.

2. Lady Dior Art Project 7th Edition:

  For the 7th edition of Dior Lady Art project, participants handled issues such as feminism and peace. The collection featured 11 artist from China, Egypt, US and Qatar.

  Each artist bought their own sense of creativity and signature aesthetics to their design on the Lady Dior bag.

  The Lady Dior handbag is one of the most iconic and coveted accessories of all timr, previously worn, loved and made famous by Princess Diana.

3. Yoyoi Kusama for Louis Vuitton:

  Louis Vuitton is working with Japanese artist Yoyoi Kusama for a new collaboration for the secondtime in 10 years. The brand followed the unique style of Yoyoi Kusama by creating the 'Infinity Dots' collection, covering both accessories and ready-to-wear. The collection will launch on January 2023.

4. Balmain's Capsule Collection with Mytheresa:

  Luxury online retailer Mytheresa has unveiled its 3rd capsule collection with Balmain.

It includes 14 party wear pieces and is all about "confidence-boosting silhouettes" as explained by Balmain. The theme of the collaboration was "Celebration" and is exclusively available at Mytheresa.

5. Louis Vuitton Chess campaign breaks the internet:

  Louis Vuitton posted a new advertisement with a caption" Victory is a State of fashion Mind" featuring football giants Christiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Both players were featured playing chess on the iconic Louis Vuitton trunks. 

  The advertisement was released a day prior to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Talk about perfect timing and on point creativity! 

  What's interesting is that this post on Ronaldo's profile is recorded  as the second most liked photo on Instagram. 

  Talking from a fashion point of view, what's really nice about this ad is the fact that they used the iconic Louis Vuitton trunk as a chess board. These trunks goes back to the 1850's and they represent the big heritage of the brand.

  And here's a small secret not everyone knows; they weren't actually together but they were photoshoped to look so!

6. Dolce and Gabbana Pop-up in Covent Garden :

Dolce and Gabbana has opened an experiential pop-up in London's Covent Garden,  keeping up with all the festivities. The brand is hosting a special "Holiday Market" including food, beverages, gifts, ready-to-wear and exclusive T shirts.

7. "Emily in Paris" season 3 coming this December:

"Emily in Paris" became, a favourite,  especially for fashion lovers. The show features Emily in the beautiful city, Paris with a various beautiful and interesting looks. Season 3 is coming this December on the 21st.

 It's almost November! Which means the C word is very near! (aka Christmas). Anyway, I love autumn when it comes to fashion and today I am sharing the latest news in fashion for the month of October.

1. Mango Supports Breast Cancer Research :

  Spanish retailer, Mango is teaming up with the cancer research organisation FERO for a collection where proceeds will be donated to the cause. 

  Mango is launching a 'Made of Seams' concept, which highlights scars as a part of journey in life."Scars are the lines that trace our path. It is a journey of comings and goings, highs and lows, but one which we never make alone.
After overcoming breast cancer, these marks not only remain on our skin to tell a story, they become part of who we are." they wrote. The collection is now available online and in selected stores.

2. Fashion Trust Arabia held it's 4th Annual Award ceremony:

  FTA, Fashion Trust Arabia, announced it's Annual Award ceremony in Doha October 26th, where they will present their prize to six recipients.

 The trust awarderd millions to support designers in the MENA region with top honors and different categories.

  The ceremony was held at the city's national museum where many celebrities and public figures attended.

3. Valentino launches "Everyday Objects " collection with Pantone:

  Valentino launched "everyday objects" capsule collection with the Pantone Color Institute highlighting its exclusive Pink PP hue, which became the label's signature hue.

  The capsule includes 11 items ranging from mugs to keychains, notebooks, umbrellas..

4. Pacsun x The Met Capsule Collection:

  Pacsun has launched an exclusive capsule collection in collaboration with The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York city.

  The collection draws inspiration from the late 19th century paintings, focusing on florals and luscious landscapes. The collection includes 30 winter pieces; modern fits that are blended with historical oil painting designs.

5. Toxic "Forever Chemicals" are banned in California:

"Forever Chemical" known also as PFAS, is banned in apparel companies in California.  This chemical is used for coating clothing and textiles, as it provides more stain resistant coat and breathable yet water- resistant quality.

  However, this chemical is very dangerous for the environment and can cause serious health problems in humans. So, by 2025 it will be full on ban in manufacturing.

6. Christian Louboutin is launching LoubiFamily:

Luxury footwear and accessories brand is launching LoubiFamily, a brand new product category made to cater every member of the family; adults, kids and even pets. Launching this autumn/winter 2022, the collection will be highlighted with a unique store concept including specially designed cartoon superheroes, bold colours,  geometric shapes...