The Business of Fashion Podcast

Priya Rao, Executive Editor of the Business of Beauty at BoF, discusses Hailey Bieber's monumental success with her beauty brand Rhode, which was recently acquired by E.l.f. Beauty for $1 billion. Rao highlights how Rhode's clean, minimalist aesthetic not only resonates with consumers but aligns perfectly with E.l.f.'s mission. The conversation dives into the unique value proposition of Rhode that sets it apart in the competitive celebrity beauty market and what this acquisition signals about the evolving landscape of beauty branding.

Giancarlo Giammetti, co-founder of the Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti, reminisces about his serendipitous meeting with Valentino Garavani in 1960, which sparked a legendary partnership. He discusses the hurdles they faced in establishing Valentino as a fashion icon and the importance of nurturing new designers in today's commercialized landscape. Giammetti stresses the need for preserving creativity and the legacy of fashion while also highlighting the emotional connections tied to their work and the foundation's role in supporting future talent.

In this discussion, Daniela Morosini, BoF Senior Beauty Correspondent, examines the beauty industry amidst economic challenges. She reveals that the once-reliant 'lipstick index' is faltering, with major brands facing declining sales and shifting consumer habits. Morosini highlights the saturation of the market and the struggle for visibility, even with more affordable offerings. She also addresses how brands must adapt to the insatiable hunger for new products from younger consumers while reinventing their strategies to stay relevant.

Luca Solca, a senior research analyst at Bernstein specializing in luxury goods, joins Imran Amed, founder of The Business of Fashion, for a riveting discussion. They cover how the luxury market is grappling with economic uncertainties, especially in China. The duo highlights the need for brands to innovate amid consumer pushback against high prices. They stress the importance of aligning creative and business leadership to navigate shifts in consumer behavior, particularly among younger generations craving authenticity in luxury.

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.

In this enlightening discussion, guests Maryse Mbonyumutwa, Reni Folawiyo, Rozan Ahmed, and Laduma Ngxokolo explore the evolving narrative of Africa's fashion landscape. Maryse highlights the economic and social sustainability in Rwandan manufacturing. Reni shares her emotional journey launching Alara to uplift African creators. Laduma connects traditional designs with luxury knitwear, while Rozan emphasizes Africa's vital contributions to global fashion. Together, they redefine 'Made in Africa' and showcase the continent's potential in sustainable and innovative production.

Marc Bain, a tariff expert and technology correspondent, teams up with retail editor Cathleen Chen to discuss the recent temporary tariff reduction between the U.S. and China. They explore how this pause, while offering short-term relief, doesn't resolve the looming uncertainties in the fashion industry. Bain emphasizes that costs remain high despite lower tariffs. Chen highlights the vital role of consumer sentiment in shaping demand, indicating that the fashion landscape may continue to shift as retailers reassess their strategies in response to evolving trade dynamics.

Sarah Kent, Chief Sustainability Correspondent for BoF, dives deep into the viral TikTok trend questioning luxury branding authenticity. She discusses how videos claiming 'superfakes' are made in the same factories as genuine goods have warped public perception and eroded trust. Kent highlights the implications of U.S.-China tariffs on luxury pricing and explores how misinformation spreads in the age of social media. This conversation reveals how brands must navigate a landscape fueled by skepticism, counterfeits, and shifting consumer attitudes.

Rabia Zargarpur, an Emirati fashion designer and founder of Rabia Z., pioneers the modest fashion movement. She reveals the staggering prediction that spending by Muslim consumers on fashion could reach $428 billion by 2027. Alongside fellow industry leaders, she discusses the journey of modest fashion, the challenges of fragmentation, and the need for greater visibility. They emphasize the significance of comfort and identity in fashion, and the importance of collaboration for sustainable growth in the industry.

Malique Morris, a DTC correspondent, dives into the transformative significance of the 2025 Met Gala's theme, 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.' He highlights the gala’s focus on Black fashion, creativity, and representation, showcasing bold looks and cultural impact. The discussion also touches on the importance of Black dandyism, activism linked to fashion, and the evolving role of Black designers in the industry. Morris advocates for enhanced support for diverse talent, emphasizing the need for true representation in high-fashion spaces.