Lei Takanashi

Lei Takanashi, a BOF correspondent and community-building expert, dives into how fashion brands can cultivate genuine connections in 2025. He highlights that consumers now prioritize brands' values over mere products. Takanashi identifies three community types: activity-based, personality-driven, and values-driven. He emphasizes the impact of shared interests and authenticity, showcasing brands like REI and Aerie that resonate with deeper consumer values. In a landscape shaped by economic pressures, the discussion reveals the importance of fostering inclusivity and emotional engagement.

Lei Takanashi, a correspondent at The Business of Fashion, and Julia Lebossé, an editorial fellow at the same outlet, dive deep into the evolving world of brand collaborations. They discuss how authenticity is key for success in creative partnerships, emphasizing the need for brands to give collaborators freedom to innovate. The duo also critiques the stagnation in sneaker designs and highlights the impressive work of smaller brands like Bimma Williams and Saucony. Listeners will gain insights into the balance between commercial appeal and artistic integrity.

In this discussion, Mike Sykes, a sports journalist with a focus on the intersection of sports and fashion, and Lei Takanashi, a correspondent covering sneaker trends, delve into the revival of basketball sneakers. They explore the shift from functional designs to fashion statements, driven by new player personalities like Anthony Edwards. The conversation highlights how recent innovations and a growing spotlight on female athletes, alongside nostalgic interest in retro styles, are reshaping the sneaker culture and market dynamics.

Lei Takanashi, a BOF correspondent known for his insightful case studies, joins the hosts to discuss how fashion brands are navigating community building in the challenging landscape of 2025. He emphasizes that consumers are now seeking deeper connections, prioritizing values and purpose over mere products. Takanashi outlines three distinct community types: activity-based, personality-driven, and values-driven, each requiring tailored engagement strategies. The conversation highlights the evolution from transactional to emotional brand relationships as authenticity becomes paramount.

In this engaging discussion, Lei Takanashi, a BoF correspondent with a keen eye on fashion trends, and Julia Lebossé, a talented editorial fellow at BoF, explore the evolving landscape of brand collaborations. They emphasize the importance of authenticity and creative freedom in successful partnerships. Takanashi highlights how poorly conceived collaborations can fail to resonate with savvy consumers. They also share inspiring examples from both big names and smaller brands like Bimma Williams and Saucony, illustrating innovation in a crowded market.