The Latest News in Fashion and Luxury (episode 18)
NellyRodi’s fashion and luxury experts share their picks from the market’s major updates. Episode 18 covers September 2024.
August 30 – Novak Djokovic, Wellness Advisor for the Aman Hotel Group
Luxury brand Aman has announced a partnership with tennis legend Novak Djokovic to enhance its holistic wellness offering. The collaboration, announced on August 30, aims to strengthen the health and fitness experiences in the group’s hotels. Djokovic, holder of 24 Grand Slam titles and a gold medalist at the Paris 2024 Olympics, will bring his expertise in physical and mental health through exclusive events and programs. As the Global Wellness Advisor he is expected to play a key role in designing wellness retreats and developing Aman products. The partnership underscores Aman’s commitment to providing an immersive and comprehensive wellness travel experience to meet the growing demand for wellness spaces in luxury hospitality.
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September 3 – the new “pingti” threat
In China, high-end imitations of popular products like Lululemon leggings and Hermès bags, called “pingti” (which means very close copies), are increasingly common in wardrobes and at prices far lower than the originals. These alternatives are not the usual counterfeits but quality products sold without logos by local manufacturers, who often source from the same European suppliers as major luxury brands. The economic crisis is pushing Chinese consumers to cut back on spending, fueling the popularity of these items, with sales skyrocketing on platforms like Taobao and Tmall. International brands, including giants like Nike and Uniqlo, are experiencing slowed growth in China. Gen Z buyers, more cautious and rational, are opting for these affordable alternatives while proudly sharing their finds online. It remains to be seen if these local brands will find their place for the long term.
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September 9 – Sarah Burton at Givenchy
Givenchy surprised the fashion world by appointing Sarah Burton, former Artistic Director at Alexander McQueen, as its new head, a year after her departure from McQueen. After 26 years with the brand, Burton is joining LVMH, marking a strategic move in the competition against Kering. Her first show for Givenchy is scheduled for March 2025. This choice symbolizes a return to the core values of luxury with an emphasis on quality and craftsmanship, both central themes for the brand’s creator. Burton follows iconic figures like John Galliano and Alexander McQueen, who both preceded her at Givenchy. The house, acquired by LVMH in 1988, seems to be reconnecting with the legacy of Monsieur de Givenchy and reviving that spirit at its 3 Avenue George V location.
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September 12 – Chanel and L’Oréal families invest in The Row
The family which owns Chanel and L’Oréal heiress Françoise Bettencourt-Meyers have, according to Bloomberg, invested in The Row, the fashion brand founded in 2006 by the Olsen twins. Anonymous sources report that the investors are said to have taken a minority stake. The Row, known for understated luxury, made its mark at Paris Fashion Week with pieces like the Margaux bag, which sells for nearly $7,000. The brand’s valuation could reach $1 billion if more investors join the operation. The Row, admired for its minimalist, “quiet luxury” style, plans to open its first boutique in France, in Paris’ 1st arrondissement. The house currently only has four boutiques worldwide: three in the United States and one in London.
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September 13 – The Louvre’s first fashion exhibition
The Louvre will host its first-ever fashion exhibition from January 24 to July 21, 2025, curated by Olivier Gabet, director of the museum’s Decorative Arts department, and scenographer Nathalie Crinière. The retrospective will explore the influence of museums on designers through a dialogue between art and haute couture. The exhibition will showcase 65 outfits and 30 accessories, including creations by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, as well as pieces from Yohji Yamamoto, Dolce & Gabbana, and Marie-Louise Carven. The goal is to highlight how the Louvre’s collections inspire designers. Although the museum has previously hosted fashion shows, it aims to attract a new audience with this exhibition and spotlight the importance of its Decorative Arts collection in the fashion world.
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September 18 – The Ritz-Carlton opens in Morocco
The Ritz-Carlton has opened its first property in Morocco, the Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam, marking the brand’s expansion into Africa. Located in the Moroccan capital of Rabat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the hotel draws inspiration from Arab-Andalusian heritage and integrates modern touches. It offers 100 rooms, 17 suites and a 180m² royal suite, all featuring private terraces with views of the pool and gardens. The culinary experience celebrates both local and international flavors, and the hotel’s various amenities include a spa, meeting rooms and event spaces. Christian Fomm, the hotel’s General Manager, affirms the brand’s commitment to personalized service and attention to detail, true to the Ritz-Carlton tradition.