Robert Williams, Luxury Editor at The Business of Fashion, dives into the remarkable success of Simon Porte Jacquemus, one of fashion’s hottest independent designers. They discuss how Jacquemus strategically uses Instagram to amplify his brand narrative and foster a unique luxury identity. Williams reveals how the brand has thrived without major investors, relying on accessible yet playful products like the 'Chiquito' bag. They also explore upcoming expansions into footwear and menswear, showcasing Jacquemus's ambitious plans for growth.
Jacquemus's success stems from his innovative use of social media for brand storytelling, engaging younger audiences through relatable content.
The brand's growth strategy focuses on controlled expansion without outside investment, aiming to enhance product offerings while maintaining brand identity.
Deep dives
The Business Success of Jacquemus
Building a fashion brand in today's competitive market is a daunting challenge, yet Simon Porte-Jacquemus has achieved remarkable success since launching his brand a decade ago. With expectations to generate over €200 million in revenue for 2022, he stands out as one of the few independent luxury brands to scale without relying on major investors or conglomerates. His unique approach combines strong branding with an organic storytelling style that resonates with consumers, particularly on social media platforms like Instagram. By crafting a compelling narrative and cultivating a relatable online presence, he has created a global brand that not only captures attention but also maintains consumer loyalty.
Innovative Retail Experiences
Jacquemus has transformed traditional retail by opting for short-term pop-up shops rather than permanent locations, allowing his brand to maintain a fresh and exciting presence. For instance, his latest pop-up in Paris coincided with fashion week and drew significant crowds, showcasing the brand's accessibility while still integrating luxurious elements. The creation of engaging and playful retail experiences, such as claw machine popcorn stands, reflects his innovative marketing strategy and appeals to younger consumers. This approach not only bolsters his brand identity but also generates buzz, turning retail visits into memorable events.
Strategic Growth and Future Ambitions
Despite his brand's rapid success, Jacquemus remains committed to a cautious growth strategy without seeking outside investment, aiming for €500 million in sales by 2025. His business model leverages a strong online presence while carefully balancing wholesale and direct-to-consumer sales to ensure sustainability. He seeks to enhance categories like menswear and footwear while exploring opportunities in collaborations, such as with Nike, to diversify offerings. This strategic direction, coupled with his emphasis on maintaining control over the brand's narrative, positions Jacquemus for continued success in the evolving fashion landscape.
Simon Porte Jacquemus is one of fashion’s hottest independent designers — and his namesake label is one of its most impressive businesses. The company, known for its tiny bags and minimalist playfulness, is on track to double annual revenues to over €200 million ($199 million) by year-end, with plans to reach €500 million by 2025. The designer has been able to build buzz with his clear brand vision, and savvy ability to storytell through social media.
“He was one of the first designers to realise how powerful of a tool Instagram was going to be, and to have something really compelling to say on that platform — to have a universe that was just really organically compelling,” said BoF luxury editor Robert Williams.
Key Insights:
Simon Porte Jacquemus has managed to build a scalable luxury start-up without the help of a conglomerate or big investor: a rarity in fashion. Jacquemus thinks the pressure to up sales every season to keep the business running pushed him to commercial success.
Armed with a new store on Avenue Montaigne, the brand reaches up into luxury prices, but maintains a more accessible, fun, young and playful bent.
Handbags — led by the brand’s hit, Chiquito style — are an essential profit driver for the business.
With a new CEO on board in Puig’s Bastien Daguzan, the brand is looking to solidify its footwear business and diversify its menswear offering.
As of now, Jacquemus does not plan on taking outside investment. The brand believes it's momentum and strong retail partnerships will help it reach its sales goal of €500 million by 2025.
Additional Resources:
Jacquemus: A Fashion Star’s Business Vision: For the first-time, the industry’s hottest independent designer — a charismatic, social-media savvy storyteller from the south of France — reveals the financial underpinnings of his burgeoning company and plans for the next phase of growth.
How to Open a Store in 2022: From seamless online-to-offline offerings to metaverse-inspired installations, the standards of brick-and-mortar retail have evolved since the pandemic struck.
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