

TikTok, Trump, and the Inauguration’s Fashion Stars
Jan 21, 2025
Sapna Maheshwari, a New York Times reporter specializing in TikTok and retail, dives into the chaotic intersection of politics and fashion. She shares insights on TikTok's potential legal issues and its impact on brand strategies. The conversation shifts to the fashionable moments at the inauguration, highlighting how designers navigate ties with political figures like Trump. They also discuss Vuori's business prospects in activewear and analyze changes at notable brands like Chanel, underlining the industry's evolving landscape.
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TikTok's Uncertain Future
- TikTok's fate is uncertain after a Supreme Court ruling sided with a law mandating its sale or ban.
- The app briefly went dark, then returned with messaging thanking Trump, creating confusion about its future.
TikTok's Potential Transformation
- If TikTok is sold, it will likely change significantly, impacting user experience.
- Current users feel a sense of loss similar to Twitter users after Elon Musk's takeover.
Platform Migration
- Instagram is the most likely platform for fashion brands and consumers to migrate to if TikTok becomes unavailable.
- Other platforms like Pinterest, Snapchat, and YouTube Shorts are also being considered.