Alessandro Paparelli

Success KPIS: 1) Trend Setter 2) Free-Spirited / Open-Minded 3) Unconventional / Off-Beat

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✨ Thrilled to announce that we’ve joined OrignalLuxury, a community dedicated to empowering the luxury industry with up-to-date knowledge from academia and insights from the technology sector. Their mission is to position the luxury sector at the forefront of transparency and traceability best practices while driving measurable advancements for luxury brands through innovative technologies. By leading the way in sustainability, transparency, and excellence, OrignalLuxury represents the highest standards in the luxury industry! 💎 In a world where customers are increasingly asking, “What’s the story behind my diamond?”, we proudly deliver the answer. Through our partnership with OrignalLuxury, we provide nearly 100% traceable diamonds using the ItraceIT barcode system—ensuring every gem we work with has a verifiable origin, a rich story, and a journey of responsibility. This isn’t just about diamonds; it’s about creating meaningful connections between brands, artisans, and customers across all luxury industries. Whether you're a jeweler, goldsmith, or part of the wider luxury world, we invite you to join us in setting a new standard for transparency, ethics, and craftsmanship. The demand for authenticity and responsibility is growing. Together, let’s redefine luxury by embracing a future where every creation reflects our shared commitment to authenticity, purpose, and ethical craftsmanship. 🌿🔨 #OrignalLuxury #TraceableDiamonds #SustainableJewelry #LuxuryWithPurpose #JewelerCommunity #Goldsmiths #LuxuryIndustry #ResponsibleLuxury #CraftsmanshipWithHeart #StoryBehindTheDiamond #EthicalLuxury #JewelryTransparency #LuxuryReimagined #CustomerConnection #JewelryWithAStory #SustainabilityInJewelry #LuxuryCraftsmanship #ArtisanalJewelry #HighJewelry #LuxuryStandards #LuxuryDesigners #LuxuryEthics #ExquisiteJewelry #FineJewelry #LuxuryLifestyle #GoldsmithCraftsmanship

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HERE WE ARE This morning, I was asked what I foresee for the Fashion industry in 2025. The article published by #MilanoFinanza highlights a possible recovery starting from the second half of next year, focusing on the financial aspects of the sector. From my perspective, which is nourished daily by feedback from professionals in the creative, production, and distribution sectors, the outlook appears less optimistic. The ongoing crisis has already been decimating important brands and companies for months. However, what I foresee with certainty is an acceleration in the adoption of new Artificial Intelligence tools. These tools, while posing challenges for those who fail to update and adapt, will also bring enormous opportunities: cost reductions in various areas of the supply chain, coupled with a significant qualitative improvement in results across multiple fields. As #MarcoBizzarri asserts, and as valuable entrepreneurs have taught me over the years, it is precisely during the most challenging times that great successes can be achieved. This revolution, now irreversible, will radically transform the Fashion and Luxury sectors. Personally, I hope this change will also lead to a recovery in terms of image and quality, regaining what has been lost in recent times. One thing is certain: whether by 2025 or 2026, there is no turning back! #fashionnews #fashionluxury #fashionrevolution

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NOTHING MORE. NOTHING LESS. Hey you! Yes, you! I’m talking right to you expert in fashion, expert in communication, expert in luxury: read it and think about the new vision. The final countdown to a new slowdown lifestyle. The next mindset after kitsch decade (ntism). Who said that simplicity and elegance cannot be modern and futuristic? It's just a matter of a strong and serene (no caos) mindset.

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Introducing Pi Footwear: Vision Meets Style Discover how our latest Pi collection transforms from minimalism to expressiveness, inspired by visionary leadership and the spirit of innovation. Swipe ➡️ to see the evolution! 🚀 1️⃣ Pi Minimalism - Begin with the essentials, inspired by the simplicity and directness of effective governance. Each design, like a policy for progress, is sleek and purpose-driven. 🌌 2️⃣ Pi Refinement - Just as leaders refine their strategies, we enhance our shoes with premium materials and subtle improvements, representing the continuous pursuit of excellence. 👞 3️⃣ Pi Expression - Bursting with vibrant innovation, this phase embraces the diverse and dynamic spirit of a progressive society, reflecting the cultural richness of the 1960s. 🎨 4️⃣ Pi Realism - Our crowning achievement: footwear that combines realism with luxury, embodying the aspirations of those who dare to lead and dream big. Every detail showcases the pinnacle of design ingenuity. 👠 🌍 Like the bold explorations of policy pioneers, Pi Footwear is more than a brand—it’s a movement towards a future where fashion intersects with political vision and innovation. Join us on this journey of transformative style. 🌟 #PiFootwear #VisionaryDesign #LeadershipInStyle #PoliticalAI #InnovationMeetsFashion

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"Another one bites the dust" FURLA Furla is a brand founded in Bologna, Italy in 1927 by Aldo Furlanetto and focused on leather goods and it's been a family business since then. In 2018 it reached the peak with revenues at 513 million euro, there were rumors about listing at the stock exchange or a sale to a new ownership. Then nothing happened. In 2022 revenues recorded a low of 336 million euro following a statement of Giorgio Presca, its CEO since the end of 2022. Apparently Presca inherited a very struggling brand to manage, with average product, flat communication and very little desirability. And little investments to put on the table. In an early 2024 interview published by Milano Finanza Presca highlighted that "We have renewed the collection with an innovation rate of over 70% and introducing accessories. Working on a segmentation of the offer depending on the type of market and consumer." They also introduced new categories such as the silk accessories but all this efforts probably come too late. The revamp never starts from the product. It never should. And early August came the news of formal debt restructuring, what can be defined as negotiated debt composition in order to stabilize its capital structure and revive the business... Many brands are running short of fuel after years of China intoxication and very superficial management that focused on short term growth. As I have highlighted since a long time, growth must be driven carefully in order to have a solid business, value creation and a strong brand equity which is the most strategic asset of a company. A fast turnover of managers (at least 5 CEO in the past 7 years) is never a good leverage to guarantee the execution of a business plan, and even less it is the constant change of creative direction or style of the collections. Family founders have a huge responsibility in: - carefully picking up the right managers that must be focused on the company sustainable business growth instead of their own glory - setting up a precise brand strategy well before the business plan - defining a manageable business strategy - strictly supervising its execution through a serious and professional board of directors - constantly investing in brand maintenance I will start teaching Family Luxury Business this year in an amazing university and I am doing lots of research in this sense. Family business is the asset on which the Italian economy relies the most and #fashion is a strategic industry. This winter will be very difficult for many brands. In my last newsletter (link in comments if you want to read it) I call it "the winter of their discontent". Brands are reaping the fruits of the work done in the past 10-15 years. This coming crisis is not an overnight disaster. Unfortunately it's been nurtured since a long time, growing under the laurels of a past, fleeting glory.

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Standard Ethics today confirms Ermenegildo Zegna Group 's #ESG #rating. The Group is part of the Agency's European Fashion&Luxury Index. Download official release here for further details: https://lnkd.in/d6ReDxu7 #Sustainability #fashion #luxury #compliance #standards #complyingwiththefuture

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Quiet Luxury: The Future of Fashion? Luxury is changing, and it’s not about loud logos anymore—it’s about craftsmanship, quality, and confidence without shouting. In this CNBC interview, Ermenegildo Zegna breaks down how they’re leading the charge in the “quiet luxury” trend and adapting to the post-COVID shift in how we dress. Think: modern elegance that fits every part of life, from the office to everyday wear. If you’re fascinated by how brands are staying relevant in a world that values subtlety and authenticity, this is worth a watch. What’s your take—can “quiet luxury” reshape the fashion industry? Watch the video here. https://cnb.cx/46LXnHF

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John Galliano has decided to exit Maison Margiela (a division of OTB, the holding company of Italian fashion billionaire Renzo Rosso) in autumn, bringing to an end his 10-year tenure at the Paris-based house. There have been multiple rumors about Galliano’s possible next position, with Christian Dior Couture and CHANEL as possibilities. Though recent reports from insiders suggest that he may be on his way to Fendi. However, it is also noticeable that Maison Margiela is not listed on the next official #Paris #FashionWeek schedule controlled by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, which manages the French catwalk seasons. It will however stage an “event,” during the upcoming season – scheduled from September 23 to October 1 – though the exact location and contents for the moment remain obscure.

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In the maelstrom which can often surround the latest figures - and any drop in sales - from the luxury sector, the positive and calm insights of Luca Solca are always a welcome addition to the discussion. As he argues, many of the challenges facing the market are largely macroeconomic issues and sales growth is posied to return by the middle of next year. A good read, and good news at a time when many seek to be negative: https://lnkd.in/d8rzKc8a #Luxury #MarketChallenges #PositiveMindset

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You might not know the name Marcolin Spa, the Italian eyewear manufacturer, but you’ll definitely know the brands they produce frames for: Tom Ford, Christian Louboutin, adidas, BMW eyewear, Candies, Gant, 6CDS, Kenneth Cole, Marciano for Guess, Max&Co, MaxMara, Pucci, Skechers, Timberland and Tod’s. Revenues last year crept up 2% but EBITDA grew 27.9% driven by strong performance in Asia following a re-org in the region. Despite this reports have been common that PE backers PAI Partners (83% shareholders) have put Marcolin up for sale at a cool €1.3Bn. Interested parties are said to include Safilo, Marchon, Kering and EssilorLuxottica. #Marcolin insights FY23: 📈 Full Yr revenue €558m, +2% YOY 📈 Adjusted EBITDA reached 78.1 million euros (+27.9% v FY22) 📈 13m glasses sold 📈 EMEA - revenue was +1.7% - driven by the luxury segment in France, UK, Italy and Spain 📈 Americas - revenue was -4.8% - impacted by macroeconomics of the region and a declining eyewear sector 📈 Asia - revenue was +81.5% - Strongest growth came from South Korea, and the countries of SE Asia (operated by third party distributors) 🏭 Revenues by region: EMEA 47.4% Americas 39.6% ROW 5.2% APAC 7.8% Key FY23 Highlights ✅ Paid $250m for a long-term licence agreement with The Estée Lauder Companies for TOM FORD eyewear, a significant extension of the current licence agreement ✅ Acquired the the German company ic! berlin GmbH for €38.5m. The acquisition was arranged with the aim of increasing metalworking expertise and expanding the portfolio of luxury brands, strengthening the commercial position of the Group in key areas such as Asia and Europe. ✅ Signed new licence agreements with MCM and Christian Louboutin (the latter at the beginning of 2024) and the renewal and extension of licence agreements for brands already in the portfolio such as Emilio Pucci, Zegna, Max & Co, GCDS, Harley Davidson and Skechers ESG ✅ Implemented a path to sustainability in line with ESG standards (since 2021). Actions focus on various issues, including carbon emissions reduction and the circular economy. ✅ Reduced use of fossil-based materials. Increased use of innovative plastic materials. The latter include bio-based acetate, which is employed in a number of collections for some of Marcolins key Brands. For injection-molded eyewear, instead, R-PET plastic (Recycled PET) is used Employees / ED&I ✅ 57% of employees are women, 43% of whom are snr managers ✅ With the amalgamation of ic! Berlin headcount increased from 1854 to 2000 ✅ A Psychological Help Desk was launched through an online platform accredited by the Italian Health Service offering 24/7 help and support to anyone in need. The service is anonymous and available to employees and their families. ✅ Approved a new Gender Equality Policy in Nov 23 which establishes the company’s commitment to an inclusive and fair work environment, guaranteeing equal opportunities and parenting support

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THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HAUTE COUTURE AND LUXURY BRAND High-end fashion is divided into different categories, each with its own unique characteristics. Among these, Haute Couture and Luxury Brand represent two distinct worlds, often mistakenly conflated. Here are the main differences: 1. Haute Couture Haute Couture, which means "high sewing" in French, represents the most exclusive and artistic level of fashion. It is governed by strict rules defined by the “Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris”. To be classified as Haute Couture, a fashion house must meet rigorous criteria, including: - Creating custom-made garments for individual clients, using artisanal techniques. - Having a workshop in Paris with at least 15 full-time employees. - Presenting at least two collections per year with a minimum number of looks, often featuring exclusive details such as hand embroidery, premium materials, and unique designs. Haute Couture is therefore a sartorial art form aimed at an elite clientele, often celebrities or billionaires, and represents the pinnacle of creativity and craftsmanship. 2. Luxury Brand Luxury Brands are fashion and lifestyle companies that produce high-quality goods on a larger scale compared to Haute Couture. Examples of luxury brands include Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many others. The main features of luxury brands are: - Ready-to-wear products (prêt-à-porter), more accessible than Haute Couture’s unique pieces. - Industrial production, while still using premium materials and maintaining high design standards. - A diversified product range, including clothing, accessories, perfumes, handbags, jewelry, and lifestyle items. - A global marketing strategy aimed at building an aspirational identity and enhancing the brand's desirability among consumers. Luxury brands, while maintaining an aura of exclusivity, are designed for a broader audience than Haute Couture, often reaching younger or less exclusive market segments. In summary, Haute Couture is synonymous with art and uniqueness, while Luxury Brands represent accessible luxury for a broader high-end market. Both worlds, however, embody values of excellence, quality, and timeless style. I suggest that when you create and share fashion designs, you clearly define and attribute them to the correct category, ensuring clarity about your work and intentions. Last but not least: AI is not a magic wand that can replace proper study and knowledge. Fashion design is a serious profession, and it’s not something you can simply improvise! #hautecouture #luxurybrands #experience

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For Gucci, the appointment of Stefano Cantino as CEO brings promising change due to his extensive experience at LVMH and Dolce & Gabbana. A positive shift could emerge from his deep understanding of brand storytelling, luxury craftsmanship, and customer experience. However, challenges will likely include reigniting consumer demand and balancing creative innovation with Gucci’s heritage. Returning to the brand’s original DNA, while aligning it with modern trends, will require careful strategy and execution to avoid alienating its core luxury audience. Who would vote for Anthony Vaccarello, taking the design front seat, who has infused Saint Laurent with a provocative, high-glamour look, reminiscent of Ford’s bold sex appeal and modern luxury approach. A. Vacarello could definitely capture that iconic balance of sophistication and daring that Ford perfected at Gucci. #BOF #Gucci #TomFord #Vaccarello #BRANDdna #Luxury #highglamour #StefanoCantino

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🎸 Paul Smith's interview offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of the fashion system. This question is an excerpt from the interview: "How has the fashion system changed in recent years? And how has your brand changed?" Paul Smith shared his unique perspective: "The industry has changed tremendously compared to when I started. Initially, it was about bringing to life what I felt, hoping someone would like it. Now, many companies focus on #marketanalysis, #demographics, #TikTok, #celebrities, and #influencers. It's a completely different approach; the world is evolving with what I would call a 'careless' focus. #Fashion, especially post-Covid, has become more casual. While our tailored suits always do well, people are dressing more relaxed, which isn't good or bad but a fact. I still believe you can dress formally but with a twist, like a cashmere blazer with a denim shirt and blue jeans, creatively coordinating clothes without sacrificing quality and #craftsmanship." I agree with Paul Smith that fashion has undergone drastic changes, especially in market approaches and distribution channels. Today, pricing plays a crucial role, particularly in premium brands, unlike in the early 2000s. This reflects a significant shift in consumer expectations and behaviours towards perceived value and accessibility. Key aspects of this transformation include: - Importance of Direct Retail (Direct-to-Consumer): Direct connection with consumers through owned stores and online platforms has become crucial. 🛍️ - Need for Outlets: Outlets have become essential for clearing inventories and attracting bargain-seeking consumers. 🏬 Price Matters! - Decline of Multibrand Small Retailers: We've seen a decline in small multibrand stores struggling to compete with major players and online retail. 🛒 The fashion industry is constantly evolving, and to stay relevant, brands must adapt to these changes without compromising their essence and quality. What do you think about this transformation in fashion? Carlos Alonso #propellingbrands to #newHeightsofsuccess ABH CONSULTING, ABH #paulsmith #fashiondistribution #retail #wholesale #fashionwholesale #fashiongurus #Growth https://lnkd.in/dC47G-74

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More thoughts on the issues which have cuased the current problems at Gucci. The brand certainly needs to make a return to being a "cultural powerhouse" and that is done by focusing on what it offers at its core - the story and feeling, not the products. In the modern luxury world, products are adornments, shoppers engage with sensation and moments. They seek experience and lifestyle. It is what Gucci used to do so well, and now has seemingly lost touch with. You can see my thoughts on this here: https://lnkd.in/g_axygak #Luxury #Gucci #Storytelling

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A Poetic Perspective. 💙 Now that fashion weeks, trade fairs, and showrooms are about to come to an end, it’s a good time to pose a reflection or a question to the air. Fashion is, and has always been, a powerful reflection of the times we live in. All of us (even those who claim to have no interest or think it’s the most frivolous thing in the world) communicate and build our identity around our aesthetic, always tied to symbols, values, and beliefs, which we express through jewelry, accessories, garments, colors… The first impression someone gives is visual, and if one knows how to read the subtle language of the objects surrounding them, they can learn more about that person than they sometimes know about themselves. The last 40 years of history, with the rise of neoliberal capitalism, have led us to the glorification of money, power, and the belief that anything that doesn’t produce money is worthless. When beliefs become dogmas, there comes a point where the structures that seem to hold everything together begin to crack. Think of a building from which new plants start to grow through those cracks. This is a metaphor to describe the feeling I had when seeing Paolo Carzana’s collections—poetry in an era of grand special effects. It’s fascinating how the most exciting things remain those created from within, with little or almost no budget. I encourage you all to take a look at the collection. #fashion

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Moncler Group's first-half 2024 results highlight a key takeaway for the luxury industry: the direct-to-consumer (DTC) model is crucial for any brand aiming to succeed in today's market. With a 19% YoY increase in DTC revenues, Moncler demonstrates how direct engagement with consumers, whether through highstreet boutiques or travel retail channels, is essential. This model not only meets the evolving preferences of luxury shoppers but also captures the spending power of global travelers. For luxury brands, expanding their DTC strategy into travel retail is no longer optional—it's a necessity for sustainable growth. #DTCStrategy #LuxuryRetail #GlobalExpansion #travelretail https://lnkd.in/eyPwg3sY

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Building a Luxury Business is not just about offering high-end products; it's about evoking sense of exclusivity, honour and esteem. #luxury #business #strategy #advisory #luxeanalytics

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The Italian subsidiary of Dior is under judicial administration – the dark side of the “Made in Italy” luxury brands. Dior is not the first fashion company targeted by the Milan Court for employment issues. In April, judicial administration was ordered for Giorgio Armani Operations Spa, which designs and produces clothing and accessories for the fashion group, following an investigation concerning the alleged exploitation of labour through the use of contracts for the production of illegal factories and the use of illegal and clandestine Chinese labour. In January, the judicial administration measure was taken for Alviero Martini Spa, deemed "incapable of preventing and curbing phenomena of labour exploitation within the production cycle". This is the sad truth about the so-called “Made in Italy “production of a lot of luxury companies. That is why the EU's new directives measures to ensure that textiles are produced circularly, sustainably and socially justly are not made just for fast fashion brands but also for luxury brands that have increased their price since 2019 by up to 33%. I firmly believe that the excuse of the fashion industry's complex supply chain being difficult to control is unacceptable. If the same money allocated for advertising and brand building were used to improve working conditions and reduce the fashion industry's environmental impact, it would greatly benefit the industry. It's crucial to ensure that a fair share of earnings reaches the people at the beginning of the supply chain, allowing for sustainable growth and granting equal rights for both men and women to build their own and their children's futures. As a consultant, I have insight into the manufacturing operations of my clients. Being a woman, I am particularly sensitive to ensuring good working conditions for both genders and providing opportunities for personal growth and development for all individuals.   https://lnkd.in/d8XDUvSE

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