Kathleen Chen

Kathleen Chen, the retail editor at The Business of Fashion, dives into the troubled state of department stores. She discusses how overexpansion and the rise of e-commerce have contributed to their decline. Chen highlights the looming crisis as activist investors target major chains like Macy’s and Kohl’s, often prioritizing real estate over retail health. The conversation also explores innovative strategies from retailers like Nordstrom that might help rejuvenate this iconic sector. Is it too late for department stores to reclaim their former glory?

Diana Pearl, a fashion journalist focused on runway coverage, and Kathleen Chen, BOF editor and industry commentator, dive into the turbulent relationship between fashion and real women's needs. They dissect controversial runway moments that many viewed as disrespectful, emphasizing a disconnect with actual women. The duo explores the intensified criticism stemming from financial pressures and the decline in body diversity, while also questioning how women creatives could reshape design. They advocate for structural changes that prioritize women's voices and better customer understanding.