This Week In Fashion

This week in fashion ( September 29 - October 4)
A new era commences at the storied Maison Fendi, as Silvia Venturini Fendi ascends to the role of Honorary President. After decades as a creative torchbearer—gifting the world the iconic Baguette and guiding the house through its centennial—her departure from the helm closes a chapter defined by family legacy and fearless innovation. While LVMH prepares to name a successor, with speculation pointing to talents like Francesco Risso or Maria Grazia Chiuri, Silvia’s indelible influence is assured to remain the very soul of Fendi's enduring spirit.







Hold the champagne! Pamela Anderson, the eternal blonde bombshell, has just unveiled a shocking Parisian plot twist: she’s now a redhead! The actress traded her signature platinum for a fiery coppery hue, a masterpiece by stylist John Nollet. With a shaggy new cut inspired by Swedish film sirens, she debuted the look in a divine cream gown. It seems Paris has inspired a whole new persona—bonjour, copper vixen!

But this chic transformation is more than a mere Parisian fancy. Anderson is already getting into character for her next major role, starring in Michael Cera’s directorial debut, the intriguingly titled Love Is Not the Answer.

This is what people say about Pamela transformation:

“She is slaying this second act and I’m here for it.”

“I’m obsessed with her evolution”

“100% Raquel Welch 1980’s. Gorgeous”

“I think this is Pamela's best era. She's stunning”

“She's actually blossomed in her maturity. She looks AMAZING ❤️”

“Love all this 80s styles and fashion making a comeback.”

 

Demna's debut at Gucci was marked by a striking blend of his signature streetwear sensibility with the luxury heritage of the iconic Italian house. The collection showcased oversized silhouettes, bold layering, and unexpected fabric combinations, signaling a fresh, contemporary direction for Gucci under his creative vision. Accessories played a pivotal role, with chunky sneakers and statement bags complementing the looks, reflecting Demna’s knack for merging high fashion with urban edge. Critics noted the collection's effortless cool and rebellious undertones, positioning Demna as a transformative force ready to redefine Gucci's identity in the evolving luxury fashion landscape.

And what about the film? Critics have delivered mixed reviews on Demna’s recent film for Gucci, highlighting both its innovative approach and polarizing execution. Many commend Demna’s ability to blend high fashion with cinematic storytelling, praising the film’s avant-garde visuals and conceptual depth that align well with Gucci’s bold aesthetic. The movie has been noted for pushing creative boundaries, offering a fresh narrative style that challenges traditional fashion advertising norms.

However, some critics argue that the film’s abstract nature makes it less accessible to a wider audience, with a few suggesting that the storyline feels overly cryptic and detracts from the brand’s message. While the artistic ambition is applauded, a segment of reviewers believes the film prioritizes style over substance, leading to a somewhat disjointed viewing experience.

Overall, Demna’s Gucci film is recognized as a striking piece of fashion cinema that encapsulates the designer’s disruptive vision, though it continues to ignite debate over the balance between artistic expression and clear communication in luxury brand marketing.







This week in the fashion world, notable events unfolded that captured both attention and critiques. Major fashion week preparations are currently underway in various cities, leading to rampant buzz about upcoming collections. Designers are finalizing their runway shows, with many opting for sustainable practices and innovative materials to address growing environmental concerns.

In Paris, the iconic luxury brand Balenciaga unveiled a capsule collection that drew inspiration from classic art movements, particularly the bold colors of Impressionism. This collection, featuring vibrant prints and tailored silhouettes, has sparked discussions about the intersection of high fashion and art. The pieces, highlighted by dramatic shapes and intricate embroidery, demonstrate how a vivacious palette can resonate within contemporary fashion. Fashion critics are keenly observing how this artistic direction will align with current consumer trends towards individuality and authenticity.

Meanwhile, in New York City, a group of emerging designers, including Telfar Clemens and Anna Sui, held a joint presentation that showcased their unique takes on modern streetwear. This collaborative event highlighted the importance of community within the fashion industry, providing a platform for new voices. Attendees praised the creativity and diversity on display, with collections that featured oversized silhouettes and unconventional layering. This gathering points to a notable shift towards inclusivity in mainstream fashion narratives, with lesser-known designers gaining visibility alongside established names.

Social media also played a pivotal role this week, with influencers such as Aimee Song and Chriselle Lim sharing their perspectives on the latest trends and advocating for greater body positivity. Campaigns featuring diverse models, including body-positive advocates and figures from the LGBTQ+ community, gained traction, sparking conversations about representation in advertising.

This movement continues to challenge traditional beauty standards, encouraging brands like Aerie and Savage X Fenty to embrace a wider spectrum of identities in their marketing strategies. As fashion weeks approach, the industry remains attuned to these evolving dialogues, shaping the future of fashion in a more inclusive direction.

Gucci unveiled its latest collection during London Fashion Week, drawing inspiration from 1970s silhouettes. Meanwhile, Versace launched a limited-edition collaboration with the renowned artist Keith Haring, infusing street art into luxury wear. In accessories, Prada's new line of handbags debuted, featuring innovative materials aimed at sustainability.

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This Week In Fashion

Artistic Director Camille Miceli takes over PUCCI. First collection was unvailed and it's filled with colorful fashion Pucci is well known for and sporty separates. Together with the new collection the new logo was introduced. It is inspired by archival 1953 "Capri Sport",a dual fish shaped as P.

Spanish fashion hosue BALENCIAGA retained it's spot as the hottest brand in the first quarter of the year according to the Lyst Index. Lyst measures items by volume of social media mentions. Second place took Gucci and third, French label Louis Vuitton.

FENDI x VERSACE Collab FENDACE - Marries two huge fashion houses Fendi and Versace and it will hit stores this month! Kim Jones and Donatella Versace change places over each other's houses. The collection will be available in both Fendi and Versace boutiques and online. The ad campaign was shot by Steven Meisel, the case includes Naomi Campbell, Imaan hammam, Kristen McMenamy and Anja Rubik.

Michael Kors and Italian sportswear brand Ellesse are collaborating. The capsule collection launches this month offers "luxurious and modern take on retro athleisue" according to Michael Kors. Oranges and reds are the color palette of Ellesse and are part of the collecion along with Ellesse x Michael Kors emblem.

Scarlett Johansson launched minimalist skincare line called The Outset. The line launched in Sephora this week and inlcudes micella cleanser, collagen serum, moisturizer, night cream and vitamin C eye cream.

Nordstroms welcomes Loro Piana. “My role is to bring a heightened point of view to Nordstrom’s merchandising offering: working closely with the buying team to inform the message of the season, scouting new designers, and providing an editorial perspective", shared with Vogue Designer Fashion & Editorial Director of Nordstrom Rickie De Sole. “I grew up sailing with the Loro Piana family in Italy,” De Sole says. “I always remember great quality outerwear that was unflappable even after a day out on the water.” “For the customer who isn’t chasing trends, Loro Piana offers an unparalleled level of quality and discreet luxury.”

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Michelle Obama in Balenciaga

For an event in New York promoting her upcoming memoir "Becoming", the former first lady Michelle Obama dressed into a daring Balenciaga outfit from label's Spring/Summer 2019 show. And boots were everything. The former were lady was invited to talk to Sarah Jessica Parker at the Barclays Center but all eyes were on Michelle Obama's outfit.

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Kering: What's Next?

Kering announced today that, after the disposal of Puma, they will also put on sale Volcom and they will focus on luxury brands (acquisitions?).

Very likely the same destiny will take place also for Cobra, the third sports brand of the group.

The intention of Monsieur Pinault group is very clear as well as the direction taken now.

After 11 years of integration of sports (and lifestyle) brands with luxury and fashion, Kering is now changing the target. But they also sold back Stella McCartney 50% to the founder. And they are struggling in managing the relaunch of Brioni.

They have three star brands: Gucci, Balenciaga, Saint Laurent that registered double digit growth, an uber luxury brand such as Bottega Veneta who slightly disappeared from the radar and jewelry, high-end watches and fashion brands such as Alexander McQueen and a very pale Christopher Kane. Kering is also facing accusation of fiscal elusion.

Isn't the right moment for the group to:

- clarify the "luxury focus" they are following
- define the categories selected: jewelry? high-end watches? men's? or other?
- rationalize the efforts in terms of brand development: short term stellar growth or long term organic growth?

So much food for thought, indeed.

 

by Susanna Nicoletti - a fashion and luxury marketing, communication and digital senior professional
in the industry with boutique consultancy www. thefashiondispatch.com

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