Katie Sturino

It's 2020 and VF Corp (Vans, Timberland, The North Face) decides to continue to expand it's brand portfolio and beats out Carlyle, Disney, and H&M in a bid for the hottest streetwear brand of the last decade in Supreme and has a winning bid of $2.1B on ~$500m of revenue and ~10% net margins. VF Corp had a market cap of ~$50B. It's 2023 and VF decides it's consolidating it's brand portfolio and selling off Supreme, which has grown nominally since acquisition but ultimately under expectations. It finds a buyer in EssilorLuxottica for $1.5B. VF today has a market cap of ~$6.5B. To be honest, given the multiple compression in the market, credit to the Supreme brand that there wasn't a bigger loss on the exit.

69

12 Comments

Hold me accountable. From this collection on, ZITO is taking a new approach to sustainability. Instead of sourcing new materials, we're going to focus on reimagining what's already out there—like leftover fabrics and vintage finds. Working in fashion has really opened my eyes to the issues of overconsumption. I used to think vegan leather was a great choice, but I've learned that it's not as sustainable as I thought. It's a learning process, and I'm on this journey just like many of you, trying to figure out how best to contribute to a healthier planet. So, moving forward, ZITO will only use existing materials to create pieces that you'll enjoy wearing for a long time. It's about reducing waste and sparking creativity with what we have. I'm excited to explore this new direction and hope you'll join me in embracing this change. #SustainableFashion #Upcycling #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #PersonalGrowth

4

1 Comment

Are you prepared for the resale revolution? 👀 In today's resale landscape, earning consumer trust is crucial. In this month's issue of Fashion Forward, we delve into the journey from idea to execution in the second-hand market. ✨ Transparency is key: Clear communication on pricing, product condition, and policies fosters trust. Honest practices build lasting relationships with customers. 🎯 Personalization matters: Using data insights, tailored recommendations enhance satisfaction and loyalty. It's about understanding and meeting individual needs. 🔄 Data-Driven Choices: Profound understanding of your market, competitors, and trends empowers proactive decision-making. Bencha offers valuable insights for brands, retailers, and marketplaces to remain adaptive and synchronize with resale trends. 🧠 Interested in enhancing your brand's performance in the second-hand market? Reach out, and we'll share exclusive insights. Contact Amanda Thorén or at [email protected] Check in our website: https://bencha.io/

14

HENRY ZANKOV, the designer and founder of ZANKOV, joined WWD Style Director Alex Badia at the WWD Apparel & Retail CEO Summit to discuss his perspective on the future of American fashion, along with fellow designers Rachel Scott of DIOTIMA and Jackson Wiederhoeft of Wiederhoeft. Read the full article below to learn more about what ZANKOV had to say: https://lnkd.in/gZbTDane

1

Why Some Fashion Brands Never Reach $500M. While Others Soar Past $1B? In the fashion industry, crossing the $500M and $1B sales thresholds represents two critical turning points. But not every brand makes it to these milestones (I witnessed how some brands struggle to even maintain sales levels), and the challenges differ for each group: 📈CHALLENGES FOR FASHION BRANDS BELOW $500M: 1️⃣LACK OF BRAND LOYALTY: Without a loyal customer base, companies struggle to maintain consistent sales. Consumers are bombarded with options and need more than a trendy product—they seek an emotional connection. 2️⃣OPERATIONAL INEFFICIENCIES: Scaling from a niche player to a mid-sized brand requires fine-tuned operations—especially when it comes to supply chain management, production quality, and distribution. 3️⃣UNDERINVESTMENT IN TECHNOLOGY: The digital revolution is transforming fashion, from e-commerce to data analytics. Many smaller brands lack the capital to invest in the right tech to fuel sustainable growth. 4️⃣MARKETING LIMITATIONS: Getting noticed in the fashion world is expensive. Brands under $500M often lack the budget for effective digital campaigns, influencer partnerships, and far more important efficient global reach (one of the most common problems). 📉WHAT DRIVES SUCCESS PAST $1B: 1️⃣GLOBAL MARKET EXPANSION: Brands that cross $1B leverage international markets, tailoring their approach to local cultures and preferences. 2️⃣STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS: Collaborating with other brands, tech firms, or even influencers at this level can drive brand visibility and customer acquisition, opening up new revenue streams. 3️⃣INNOVATION AS A CORE VALUE: From sustainability initiatives to embracing AI and virtual fashion, billion-dollar brands prioritize innovation. They lead trends, rather than follow them. 4️⃣OMNICHANNEL MASTERY: Companies that dominate both online and offline channels create seamless customer experiences, leading to higher conversions and customer retention. For those stuck under $500M, the pathway to higher revenue lies in building a scalable global, tech-savvy business model that speaks to today’s consumer demands. For those surpassing $1B, the challenge is staying agile and relevant in a fast-changing industry. #fashion #smartbusiness #growth #innovation #globalvision #management

11

The new venture, called Authentic Luxury Group, will initially focus on Authentic Brands Group owned luxury and accessible luxury names including: Barneys New York, Judith Leiber Couture, Hervé Léger and Vince. Essentially, the new luxury group plans to serve as an incubator for brand growth through strategic licensing agreements and distribution channels across #fashion, #retail, #digital, #hospitality, #realestate, #art and #travel, according to the joint venture; all related to luxury lifestyle and activities. Perhaps, we are witnessing the emergence of a new luxury powerhouse from the United States, poised to join the ranks of the prestigious luxury conglomerates that dominate the fashion and lifestyle markets from France and Italy. While these European giants have long set the standard, this could signal a shift in the global landscape. Time will reveal if this American contender lead by Authentic Brands Group Jamie Salter & Saks Richard Baker can truly redefine the luxury industry on a global scale (in my personal opinion highly feasible).

20

6 Comments

The BAUDOIN & LANGE POST: EDITION 1   A New (Traditional) Way to Connect in a Digital-First World.   As we prepare to open our newest store on Madison Ave in NYC, we’ve been reflecting on how we, as a luxury brand, engage with our community and prospective clients. In a world oversaturated with digital ads—platforms competing for attention, algorithms dictating reach, and costs skyrocketing past £1 per click—it’s easy to feel disconnected as both consumers and brands navigating the unknown.   So, we’ve decided to take a different approach. Instead of relying on online ads, we’re delivering a physical, printed newspaper to over 10,000 of our closest neighbours in NYC.   The benefits of a physical touchpoint vs. a quick digital view mean much more to us:   - Longevity: A physical newspaper sticks around longer than a fleeting digital ad. It invites slower, more thoughtful engagement in a world that is crowded and loud. It allows us to tell, both visually and in writing, what makes us special—rather than being judged by a single image or video in a split second while someone is on the move. - Personal Connection: Delivered directly to our community, it feels more human—like receiving a message meant just for you. - Targeting: We know exactly who is receiving our newspaper, whereas online, this information is hidden within the black box of large platforms like Google and Meta. - Tracking: Our team has incorporated clever call-to-actions within the newspaper, enabling us to track results with full accuracy over the long term. - Storytelling: With no interruptions or algorithms, we can share our journey in a way that resonates more deeply, telling the Baudoin & Lange story the way it was meant to be told. - Cost-Effective: At half the cost of the typical CPC online, we’re able to reach people in a more direct and personal manner without the high price tag of online clicks.   This decision reflects what Baudoin & Lange stands for—craftsmanship, authenticity, and meaningful connections. Just like our shoes, we believe in taking the time to do things right.   T-7 to the opening of our new store in NYC. We’re buzzing!   Digital version (ironic, I know!) below for a slow read over a coffee.   #BaudoinAndLange #MadisonAve #NewYork #Craftsmanship

66

5 Comments

Challenging the Narrative in DTLA! We're excited to share the successful closing of a 23,234 SF full-floor sublease at The Bloc in Downtown Los Angeles. This deal goes against the grain, proving that with the right combination of amenities, quality, and safety, DTLA remains a compelling choice for innovative, growth-driven companies. We’re proud to partner with forward-thinking clients who see opportunities where others see challenges. Why It Matters: ✅ Breaking Trends: With a 31.5% vacancy rate and widespread concerns about DTLA’s future, this deal reflects a vote of confidence in the area’s potential. The Bloc, which won the 2024 TOBY Award, exemplifies how preparation and quality create opportunities, even in challenging markets. ✅ Potential for Growth: In a time when many are questioning the viability of DTLA, our client—a fast-growing, venture-backed fashion company—chose to expand here. Their decision highlights how well-amenitized, safe spaces are precisely what today’s top tenants seek. ✅ Supporting the Future of DTLA: As we move forward, attracting the next wave of growth tenants will be essential to revitalizing DTLA. The Bloc’s prime location and best-in-class amenities make it an ideal model for what’s possible when tenants and properties align. https://lnkd.in/gAxuBFtf

5

📢 Luxury Brands - selling your products on Amazon is no longer taboo! Amazon analytics reporting (Customer Search Terms, Consumer Behavior Analytics & so much more) will give you tremendous insights & allow you to grow your DTC and build your brand. Oh and a side benefit, the CVR will likely crush all your DTC channels. Want to get started? Reach out to discuss the first steps.

13

2 Comments

Last year, you may have seen Rhiannon Hall and my posts about how excited we were for Luna Bronze to be one of the first self-tanning brands landing in Saks Fifth Avenue (and an Aussie one at that!)... What followed was a success— all of our stock sold through. But behind the curtains was a lengthy and (almost) futile battle to get our invoices paid... Luna Bronze is a small, proudly female-founded, owned, and operated business. We’ve worked hard to build our brand, and the opportunity to be stocked at Saks felt like a dream come true - a real confirmation of the strength of the products and brand that we had built over the years and a possibility to open further doors for us. But despite our experience with retail relationships, we had never encountered anything like this before. Over 12 months of overdue payments ($9k USD) was not just frustrating; it was alarming—especially for a small business where every dollar counts. We questioned ourselves: Should we really pursue this? Do we just write it off? Would talking about it hurt our chances of growing our US retailer network? The fear of speaking up felt more daunting than the actual issue at hand. Thankfully, just over a week ago, Ryan Babenzien from Jolie fearlessly posted on LinkedIn and it gave me the courage to add our voice to the story. What followed this LinkedIn viral post was an interview with The Wall Street Journal, along with many other brands in the same boat as us. Some with much larger payments owing. There was also a Glossy article and DailyMail.com also picked it up. In an amazing turn of events, the day after my WSJ interview I received an email from Saks - payment had finally been processed (coincidence?!) Just like that, after over a year of waiting, we got what was owed to us. Retail distribution in North America is something that we are working hard on expanding and this experience has been a small set back (and something for our history books), but its not going to put us off! If anyone has suggestions for US retailers who value partnerships with small, independent brands, I’m all ears! We’re always looking to grow our network with partners who value our approach to safe, sunless tanning with a more natural look. PS. Here is the article if you want the full tea: https://lnkd.in/g8YVK4ZR ...In the WSJ article, a Saks spokesperson mentioned they were "navigating their business through the current challenging macroeconomic environment" and who else wants to use that one when your next Amex bill arrives?! 😆

53

12 Comments

BeyoncéxLevi’s: Ceci n’est pas une collab! At the launch of Beyoncé's new album, one of the tracks was entitled "Levii's Jeans". Michelle Gass, CEO of Levi's® Footwear & Accessories, assured that the mention of the name was "completely spontaneous" and that the company "had nothing to do with it" in an interview with Bloomberg. But at the close of trading on Friday, the company's shares had already gained 31% since the start of the year, outperforming the S&P 500 index. Analysing our powerful data at Livetrend.co, we can see how #denim is always a must have for September drops. Representing 8% of global product range for men and 7% of women assortment. In the clip, #Beyoncé is wearing the iconic straight-leg jeans and we can see how the e-com assortment is mirroring her choice: For women, straight leg represent 18% of the range, followed by slim 17% and then skinny jeans at 15% and wide leg at 12%… Do you want to know more how to capitalise on denim for your collections? Ask for a demo via the link in the first comment! https://lnkd.in/eSQN7MUE

7

1 Comment

Sex Toy Distributing Empire: Your 2024 Guide to Success Gone are the days of hushed whispers! The sex toy industry is booming, projected to DOUBLE by 2030 (that's $80 BILLION!), making it a RIPE opportunity for savvy entrepreneurs. This guide gives you the lowdown on EVERYTHING you need to launch your sex toy distributing empire. Find Your Niche & Source: First things first - who are you selling to? BDSM enthusiasts? The LGBTQIA+ community? Research your target audience and source high-quality toys that cater to their desires. Resell existing products, outsource to a manufacturer, or create your own - each option has pros and cons! Safety & Privacy First: Customer trust is paramount. Ensure your products are safe (think detailed labeling, clear instructions), and comply with regulations. Discrete packaging and secure data handling are essential! Partnering with an experienced company can make navigating legalities a breeze. Build a Brand that Sells: Don't be afraid to get personal! What values will your brand embody? What drives you? These elements shape your voice, tone, and visuals, creating a magnetic connection with your ideal customer. Craft Your Online Store: Building your online empire requires navigating legal restrictions. Some payment processors shy away from adult products, so research is key! High-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and a user-friendly platform are crucial. Partnering with a seasoned company can smooth out this process. Price to Win: Finding the sweet spot between profit and affordability is key. Understand your costs (manufacturing, shipping) and factor in a fair profit margin. Research competitor pricing and consider offering tiered options to cater to different budgets. Marketing Magic: Get creative! Craft engaging website content, leverage SEO to attract organic traffic, and explore affiliate marketing to expand your reach. Partner with sex-positive influencers (micro-influencers are budget-friendly!) to create buzz. Email is Your Secret Weapon: Build an email list before launch! Create excitement with a "Coming Soon" page offering discounts for early sign-ups. Partnering with a sex-toy distributing expert can guide you through proven marketing strategies. Ready to Build Your Empire? The sex-positive revolution is here, and YOU can be a part of it! This guide equips you with the knowledge to navigate this exciting industry. Partner with a company like V For Vibes, and watch your sex toy distributing business soar! https://lnkd.in/guh-NKhR

1

Cosmoprof North America will take place on July 23-25, 2024, in Las Vegas. In our July issue, Beauty Industry Report will feature a special show preview.  If you are exhibiting, we would love to include your company's LAUNCHES. Beauty Industry Report is an executive magazine and communication forum for senior beauty leaders.   This is FREE Editorial for Cosmoprof North America exhibitors only.   To stay on top of all the news you need to run your business, you can contact me for a special rate.   To be included, please send the following to [email protected] with the subject line Cosmoprof North America. Deadline is May 17. NO EXCEPTIONS. Please follow this format. DO NOT SEND PRESS RELEASES, FACT SHEETS OR LINKS. ANSWER THIS QUESTIONNAIRE.  What is your company’s or brand’s name? What is your booth number? Are you looking for manufacturers' reps and/or distributors and/or beauty stores in North America? Internationally? What is your company previewing/launching at Cosmoprof North America? Please note: This is for products launching at or after CPNA only. DO NOT SEND A PRODUCT WE HAVE ALREADY RUN. Please include this information for every new line or product you are launching or previewing for launch from July 2024 through January 2025. What is the official launch date? What features/benefits/concept make this new line/product/program special? (Maximum 100 words) What is the size of the product and the MSRP for retail products or salon price for professional-use products (such as hair color). What is your primary distribution channel? (Where is the product sold? salons, beauty supplies, online, QVC, Sephora, Dept. Stores, etc.) or is this the first launch for your brand? Sales contact info (NOT press contact info). You must include the person's name, title and email address plus WEBSITE to be included. Please send one high-resolution, PRINT QUALITY jpeg, tif or png per new product or a group shot. It MUST be a minimum of 300 dpi at 5 x 7 inches. This is EDITORIAL. ABSOLUTELY NO TYPE OR LOGOS on the photo (other than what’s on the actual product).   Let me know if you have any questions. I’m here to help!  

11

I have suggestions to help fashion ecommerce: The demand for functional fashion is on the rise, and pockets are leading the charge. The Wall Street Journal's article, "Women’s Clothes Finally Have Pockets. What Took So Long," highlights the evolution of women's garments, now featuring pockets that offer both utility and style. This shift reflects broader societal changes, promoting equality and recognizing women's active roles in public and professional spheres. As an avid supporter of pockets, I appreciate how they can be designed to either stand out with a cargo style or blend seamlessly into the garment's design. For e-commerce retailers, this trend presents a significant opportunity to enhance the online shopping experience. Here are some actionable insights: 1. Add a "Pockets" Filter: Introduce a filter option specifically for pockets, allowing customers to easily find clothing items that meet their functional needs would improve navigation and discoverability. 2. Detailed Product Descriptions: Clearly indicate the presence and type of pockets in product descriptions. Don't rely solely on images; specify the functionality and design of the pockets. Added benefit of improving SEO. 3. Highlight Functional Fashion: In your marketing and product listings, emphasize the practical benefits of pockets, supporting the growing trend towards functional equality in fashion. By integrating these features, retailers can cater to the increasing demand for practical and stylish clothing, ensuring a better shopping experience for their customers. If you make these updates please let me know any data insights.

20

8 Comments

"Recovery was certainly in the air at the September Interfiliere fair in Paris, a sentiment that gained even more momentum at the Shanghai fair. We’re witnessing not just a gradual recovery in the lingerie market, but the emergence of a truly new lingerie landscape. Innovation at every level is essential to building the sustainable 24-hour wardrobe, where lingerie becomes a seamless blend of artisanal decoration and advanced technology. This interview captures my optimism and my formula for transformation: a mix of change, energy, and pure pleasure."

53

2 Comments

IS SUBSTACK THE NEW SPECIALITY STORE? DESIGNERS THINK SO Vogue Business by Laura Pitcher Since launching in 2017, Substack has built a reputation around authenticity and user-generated recommendations. It’s become a platform where influencers, editors and stylists take their own (non-sponsored) recommendations, and aspiring writers publish personal and informal articles that traditional media outlets wouldn’t. The need to get personal As people personally select who they subscribe to on the platform (unlike the usual appearance of sponsored posts), venturing into the territory of email marketing may land you in the spam folder. Instead, Strachan says, people are looking for a peek behind the scenes. “I’ve never gone on Instagram and felt better about myself, but on Substack, it’s interesting to deep dive into people’s lives,” she says. “It’s more about the reality of the lives of the people you’re following.” Call it ‘influencer fatigue’ or social media burnout, the rise of fashion Substack is a clear indication that people are seeking more depth from their online interactions. Viv Chen, the fashion writer behind The Molehill Substack, says she’s witnessed a “real appetite” for longer-form content since joining in 2021. “People miss the 2010s era of personal blogs,” Chen says. “We’re so saturated with photos and videos that going back to writing has the perception of being more authentic.” This means the designers and brand founders who are willing to get more personal will go further on the platform. “There will always be an interest in compelling authentic stories, about how someone made mistakes in their career or giving an inside scope on an industry that appears so glamorous on the surface,” says Chen. For designers or brand founders willing to “go there”, Substack offers something that no social platform currently does: the opportunity to own access to your followers beyond the platform by owning your email list. Between the potential TikTok ban in the US and worldwide news bans from Meta, this potential is undeniable. Yet the long-form nature of Substack means any copy-and-paste social marketing strategies just won’t cut it. learn more: https://lnkd.in/eNJK233X #metaverse #fashion #ai #nft #web3 #investment #defi #blockchain

5

🌟 The Evolving Landscape of Luxury Beauty E-Commerce 🌟 As explored in Beauty Independent, luxury beauty brands are facing increased competition in the e-commerce space and a declining department store channel. Elana Drell-Szyfer, CEO of RéVive Skincare, notes that new online platforms like TikTok Shop and affiliate models are diverting traffic from traditional luxury e-tailers and department stores. With consolidation and larger players like Saks and Neimans stepping up, the dynamics are rapidly shifting. At True Beauty Ventures, we believe strongly in the DTC channel for luxury brands, offering control over brand experience and resilience against retail challenges. Given limited retail distribution and the high AOV, gross margin profile and LTV of a loyal consumer, DTC economics are most attractive for this product segment. Cristina Nuñez #beautyinvesting

41

Thanks BeautyMatter for covering this exciting story!

71

4 Comments