The Business of Fashion Podcast

Awar Odhiang, a South Sudanese-Canadian model known for her viral moment closing Matthieu Blazy's debut Chanel show, shares her inspiring journey from refugee to international runway star. She discusses the pivotal moment of being scouted while working at Old Navy and how that transformed her self-belief. Awar critiques the fashion industry's approach to inclusion, emphasizing the importance of genuine representation and decision-making. She also highlights the joy of self-expression she experienced on stage and the boundaries she sets to maintain her happiness in a demanding industry.

Mike Sykes, a journalist and sneaker market analyst known for his data-driven insights, joins the discussion on the contentious sneaker-of-the-year race for 2025. He highlights the rise of competitors like Vans and Converse challenging Nike's dominance, while noting that Nike remains the industry standard. The conversation dives into the storytelling behind standout models like Shea Gilgeous-Alexander's signature shoe and Nigel Sylvester's emotional Jordan 4. Sykes also shares how real-world sales are driven by practical designs, signaling a shift in sneaker culture.

Riz Ahmed delves into the radical power of storytelling, reframing Hamlet’s famous soliloquy as a bold call for resistance against injustice, rather than despair. He reflects on his British Asian identity and the universal relevance of Shakespeare's work. The actor highlights his journey in producing the first non-white cinematic adaptation of Hamlet, emphasizing the urgency of the play's themes in today’s world. Ahmed advocates for storytellers to embrace their responsibility, urging them to confront fear and champion shared humanity.

Clare Waight Keller, a renowned fashion designer and creative director at Uniqlo, and Maria Cornejo, a New York-based designer known for her timeless pieces, explore the challenges women face in the fashion industry. They discuss the paradox of women as the primary consumers yet underrepresented in leadership roles. Clare shares her experiences navigating maternity policies at Gucci, while Maria champions the creativity of practical, wearable designs. Both emphasize the importance of hiring women and creating opportunities, hinting at a hopeful shift towards gender equity in fashion.

Luca Solca, a senior analyst at Bernstein, shares his insights on the luxury goods market. He discusses the challenges of rebuilding consumer trust after soaring prices and how brands must innovate their pricing strategies. The conversation includes the impact of Western and Chinese consumer trends, the importance of accessible luxury, and the delicate balance between distinct creativity and commercial viability. Solca also highlights the potential for mid-market brands to thrive amidst evolving consumer expectations.

Robert Williams, Luxury editor at The Business of Fashion and industry expert, delves into the dynamic changes shaking up the luxury market. He unpacks the implications of A$AP Rocky's partnership with Chanel and the pivotal role of Mathieu Blazy's debut collection. The discussion highlights Prada's urgent choice following its acquisition of Versace, the trend of beat-up bags symbolizing authenticity, and the challenges of justifying luxury pricing in a shifting market. Williams offers a cautious outlook on the future of luxury in 2026, particularly with reliance on Chinese consumers.

Francesco Carrozzini, a renowned photographer and filmmaker known for 'Franca: Chaos and Creation,' discusses his life growing up in Vogue Italia, shaped by his mother, the legendary Franca Sozzani. He shares insights on the candid relationship they had and the profound advice she gave him about finding a point of view. Francesco explores his work with the Franca Fund for Preventive Genomics, aiming to prevent diseases like lung cancer while emphasizing how to transform grief into a meaningful legacy. Their story combines art, science, and the enduring bond of family.

Kat Chen and Malique Morris, both reporters from Business of Fashion, dive into the changing landscape of holiday shopping. They reveal that while overall consumer sentiment is low, the wealthy are still spending. Brands are shifting away from blanket discounts to prioritize desirability and value, using AI for precise pricing strategies. The turmoil in luxury retail opens doors for competitors. Overall, they suggest that the era of discount mania may be coming to an end, as brands adapt to new consumer expectations.

Andrea Guerra, CEO of Prada Group, is a seasoned expert in luxury and consumer businesses. In this discussion, he emphasizes the need for brands to return to their core DNA and simplify amidst market challenges. Guerra highlights how emotional connection, not just pricing, drives luxury sales. He celebrates Miu Miu’s rebellious spirit and addresses the importance of quality and customer feedback. Additionally, he shares insights on Prada's cultural projects and the strategic acquisition of Versace, framing it as a long-term opportunity for cultural relevance.

Join Sarah Kent, a sustainability correspondent at BOF, and Shayeza Walid, a reporter focused on industry emissions, as they dissect fashion's climate crisis. They highlight how major brands like Inditex and Nike are falling short on emissions goals. Sarah reveals that no brand currently has a credible pathway to meet 2030 targets. They discuss the inherent conflict between profitability and environmental commitments and explore the broader implications of fast-fashion growth, including the urgent need for decarbonization strategies.