me too bro, me too
SAY HELLO TO
THE BIG CRIB
This is where my sassiness meets the seriousness of fashion.
I crib, I cry and I comment
on the latest piece of gossip
(sometimes called news or trends)
that you probably didn’t hear of.
A Look Into The Beautiful Mind of Rahul Mishra
One expects a certain gravitas from Fall collections,
a richness that reflects the season's contemplative mood.
Rahul Mishra's Fall 2024 offering, however,
takes a decidedly unorthodox approach.
Titled "Aura," the collection delves into the esoteric,
exploring the unseen energy field said to surround us.
Mishra's strength lies in his ability to
translate the abstract into the tangible.
The #color palette, a stark departure from
the usual autumns of burgundy and burnt orange,
embraces the profound depths of black.
However, Mishra is far too adept to rely solely on color.
The garments shimmer with an otherworldly luminescence.
Cascading threads of metallic brilliance weave amongst
meticulously placed glass beads,
culminating in a symphony of rhinestones.
The effect is nothing short of mesmerizing –
a visual embodiment of the very aura.
One might question the use of black for a #Fall collection.
Traditionally, the season demands a certain warmth,
a richness absent in Mishra's stark palette.
Yet, here lies the crux of his #success.
The black serves as a negative space,
a void that amplifies the brilliance.
It is a testament to Mishra's masterful control
that such an unconventional choice can feel
so undeniably appropriate.
One mustn't overlook the subtle presence of
his signature floral embroidery –
a whisper of whimsy amidst the collection's
more profound pronouncements.
Ultimately, "Aura" transcends mere aesthetics.
It is an introspective journey,
a prompt to contemplate the unseen forces that shape us.
What did you think of the collection?
made the week
the big move
Are we going to talk about the Gucci-fication of Valentino?
Let's get the facts right.
Valentino names Alessandro Michele as their Creative Director on March 28.
On #Monday, just two months after his appointment, Michele releases a lookbook with over 260 images.
A pre-spring collection across categories, from RTW to handbags, shoes, and silk scarves.
Here's where things get interesting.
Most of these look like ...
THEY BELONG ON THE GUCCI RACK.
You see, back at Gucci, Michele's tenure spoke of maximalist aesthetics, sportswear, and demi-couture that was hard to miss.
But, it seems Michele is still on the same path with Valentino. With pretty similar looks.
Yes, the fashion house needs a revamp with a new #generation of customers.
But, does it need to become Gucci to do that?
In The Business of Fashion article, Michele said "The process is not going to end. I still have the same gaze … It’s still me remixing things.”
Oh wait, did I tell you?
The lookbook was released on the morning of Gucci’s second menswear show by Michele's successor Sabato De Sarno!
I'm sure this was a coincidence, right?
Is the original Y2K brand back to haunt our closets?
Gap hasn't exactly been the Beyonce of the retail world lately.
No one remembers those iconic khakis and graphic tees
we all lived in back in the 90s.
But fear not, there might be a light at the end of the #discount bin.
According to The Business of Fashion and Diana Pearl,
Gap's been shaking things up to reclaim its fashion throne.
New CEO in 2023, fresh leadership team –
Gap seems to be admitting they need a makeover.
But here's the real tea:
is this just a desperate attempt
to borrow some royal #fashion cred?
Remember Anne Hathaway rocking that
vintage Gap dress on the red carpet?
Cute, but not exactly groundbreaking.
On the flip side, their recent collab with
feminine fashion brand Dôen
for a "Sisterhood Collection" shows some promise.
It seems Gap might be finally understanding the power
of #collaboration and niche markets.
When was the last time you bought something from GAP?
the ride up
small wins
You wouldn't believe what this Cartier rep did to me!
Six months ago, I embarked on a trip to Jio World Plaza, Mumbai – a mecca for brand devotees. Imagine Saint Laurent, Bvlgari, Gucci, and Christian Dior Couture, all vying for your attention.
It felt like a scene straight out of "Crazy Rich Asians."
But then came Cartier.
Now, I'm no stranger to the luxury markup in India.
Import duties, taxes – the whole shebang.
But what happened next left me speechless.
My heart was set on the Cartier Trinity Ring, a minimalist masterpiece that transcends trends.
As any savvy Indian shopper (wink), I did my research:
> checked the price,
> noted the ID, and
> mentally enlisted my Dubai cousin for a "rescue mission."
Here's the plot twist:
I straight-up asked the Cartier rep, "Where would I find the best price on this ring?"
Brace yourselves – she said, "Right here, sir!"
Apparently, Cartier adheres to a global pricing strategy,
adjusting costs based on local economies.
(India: ₹164,000 | Dubai: 7500 AED ≈ ₹170,000)
Mind. Blown.
This revelation not only skyrocketed Cartier's reputation in my eyes but also sparked a burning question:
Why can't other luxury brands follow suit?
After all, a recent Barclays report predicts a meteoric rise – a 15-25% annual growth – in India's luxury market, reaching a value of €23-38 billion within seven years!
So, what's the deal?
Do you shop for luxury locally or wait for international trips?
Move Over Bollywood, Indian Streetwear is Taking the Spotlight.
Forget the embellished saris and tailored suits of Bollywood fame, India's fashion scene is undergoing a transformation.
The catalyst? Streetwear.
Gone are the days of limited clothing options.
A vibrant streetwear movement is flourishing across India, with young local brands like VegNonVeg and established names like Delhi's HUEMN leading the charge.
This isn't just a trend; it's a cultural phenomenon driven by a desire for individuality and a connection to a global movement.
So what's driving the boom?
>> A Growing Appetite for Comfort and Style
The pandemic's influence on everyday wear is undeniable. Comfortable yet stylish clothing is in high demand, and streetwear perfectly fits the bill.
>> Self-Expression Through Fashion
Young Indian consumers are increasingly using fashion as a way to showcase their unique personalities. Streetwear, with its bold graphics, statement pieces, and room for personalization, offers the perfect canvas.
>> Locally-Crafted with Global Appeal
Indian designers are not simply copying Western trends. They're infusing streetwear with their own cultural heritage, creating unique pieces that resonate with a global audience while incorporating sustainable practices.
Plus, gone are the days of limited access.
Dedicated streetwear stores are popping up across major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, offering a curated selection of local and international brands.
Sneaker conventions like SoleCon and SneakinOut are attracting thousands of attendees, fostering a sense of community and excitement around streetwear culture.
[Experts predict continued growth for the Indian streetwear market, with a projected CAGR exceeding 10%.]
The key to owning this piece?
Staying true to the core values of streetwear – self-expression, comfort, and a touch of rebellion – while incorporating sustainability and a unique Indian identity.
Are you ready to explore the streetwear scene?
Which brands do you think fit the bill?
the big picture
just wow
You don't know it yet, but this is the ideal way to spend £30 million.
In a surprising move, Frasers Group has bought back the intellectual property (IP) of online luxury retailer MatchesFashion, just months after selling it.
While this might seem like a strategic power play to regain control of a prestigious brand, a closer look reveals a more complex picture with potential long-term consequences.
Here's a breakdown of the situation:
// Repurchase of IP
Frasers Group reacquired the MatchesFashion brand and IP for £230 million, a significant sum considering they sold it for £200 million earlier this year. This suggests a strong belief in the brand's potential and a desire to leverage its name recognition.
// Job cuts and restructuring
However, the deal comes with a harsh reality – Frasers has reportedly cut 91 MatchesFashion employees, including senior management. Now, I'm seriously questioning the future of the platform and its ability to maintain its established brand identity and customer base.
// Uncertainty Everywhere
While Frasers intends to relaunch MATCHES as an online platform, the details remain unclear. There isn't a clear idea regarding its target audience, brand positioning, and how it will differentiate itself within the Frasers Group portfolio.
I won't lie, this move by Frasers Group is a bold one, but its long-term success hinges on effectively integrating the MatchesFashion brand while navigating the challenges of restructuring and potential brand dilution.
Frasers is playing a dangerous game.
Do you think they can revive MatchesFashion without its soul?
Everyone wants to buy from luxury brands.
And now everyone can!
The fashion landscape is undergoing a fascinating shift: the rise of accessible luxury.
This segment caters to a growing demand for high-quality, well-made clothing and accessories at price points significantly lower than traditional luxury brands.
Fueled by factors like price fatigue and a conscious consumer movement, accessible luxury brands are thriving.
They offer beautifully crafted leather goods, ready-to-wear clothing, and more, typically ranging from $200 to $800. This strategic price positioning makes luxury more attainable to a wider audience, without compromising on quality or design.
Think SANDRO's Parisian chic, maje's effortless femininity, or TORY BURCH's timeless American sportswear – these are just a few examples of international brands making waves in the accessible luxury space.
// However, the story doesn't end there.
India, with its booming luxury market and rapidly rising number of affluent consumers, presents a particularly exciting opportunity.
1. Exponential Market Growth
The Indian luxury market is projected to grow at a staggering 13-19% between 2024 and 2029, indicating immense potential.
2. Aspirational Consumers
India's growing economy is creating a larger population of high-net-worth individuals and young professionals with a desire for premium fashion.
3. Shifting Preferences
Indian consumers are increasingly drawn to contemporary fashion trends and are willing to invest in quality pieces that reflect their evolving style.
4. Focus on Quality & Design
There's a growing demand for well-made, design-led clothing and accessories that cater to the Indian aesthetic.
Homegrown brands like Pero by Aneeth Arora and DHRUV KAPOOR are already carving their niche in this space, offering unique blends of Indian heritage and contemporary sensibilities.
Additionally, established Indian designers like Rahul Mishra are launching diffusion lines at simpler price points, catering to a wider audience.
Accessible luxury is now more than just a trend – it's a force reshaping the fashion industry.
With India poised to become a central player, this will be the next segment that catches everyone's eye.
Which brands do you think fit the accessible luxury tag?
Have you bought from any?
on the move
