The Business of Fashion Podcast

Sarah Kent, Chief Sustainability Correspondent at The Business of Fashion, discusses the precarious state of DEI and ESG initiatives in the fashion industry. She highlights the performative nature of many DEI efforts established post-George Floyd and questions the authenticity of current sustainability commitments. Kent warns that recent political shifts have led major brands, like Walmart, to retrench their initiatives, emphasizing the business imperative of meaningful change. The conversation probes the disconnect between ambitious promises and actual progress in a volatile landscape.

Jens Grede, co-founder and CEO of Skims, and David Allemann, co-founder of On, explore how their brands navigate the fusion of fashion and sports. Grede emphasizes that innovative product development is crucial, sharing insights into Skims' standout fabrics. Allemann recounts the humble beginnings of On, starting from a garden hose prototype to groundbreaking footwear. They discuss how sportswear now expresses personal identity, transforming into lifestyle statements, and the importance of authentic collaborations to enhance brand relevance.

Retail editor Cat Chen and e-commerce correspondent Malique Morris delve into the booming $50 billion resale market, discussing its evolution from thrift stores to mainstream platforms. They highlight how consumer convenience has destigmatized secondhand fashion and the role of sustainability in shaping this trend. The conversation explores the challenges established brands face, including changing commission structures and the complexities of navigating online returns. Innovative strategies for reselling unsellable goods are also examined, showcasing a dynamic shift in the fashion industry.

Michael Kliger, CEO of luxury e-commerce platform Mytheresa, joins Lauren Santo Domingo, co-founder of Moda Operandi, to discuss the recent downturn in the luxury market. They explore how rising marketing costs and competition have impacted profitability, as well as the transformation of the sector post-pandemic. Kliger emphasizes the importance of preparedness amid economic challenges, detailing innovative customer engagement strategies and the shift towards long-term relationships with clientele. Tune in for insights on navigating this complex landscape.

Simon Porte Jacquemus, the French designer famed for his vibrant and playful take on Parisian fashion, shares insights from his remarkable journey since 2009. He highlights how unconventional marketing tactics propelled his brand into the spotlight. Jacquemus discusses the challenges of staying independent in the luxury market and the importance of creative visibility. He also reveals his strategic expansion into New York and London, fueled by his passion for crafting unique retail experiences. His approach champions fun as the cornerstone of creativity.

Daniela Morosini, a beauty correspondent known for her expert insights, discusses the tumultuous journey of billion-dollar beauty brands. She highlights how brands like Glossier and Morphe thrived through social media but now struggle to maintain sales. Morosini emphasizes that sustaining growth is tougher in a saturated market filled with competition. She argues for the importance of intentional growth strategies and innovation, providing examples like the revitalization of Urban Decay's Naked palette and emerging brands like Rare Beauty that are redefining beauty's landscape.

Tina Brown, a trailblazing journalist known for her roles at Tatler and Vanity Fair, shares her insights on the evolving landscape of media in today's climate. She discusses the threat of misinformation and the necessity of truth in fostering democracy. Brown reflects on the challenges journalists face under authoritarian pressures and the impact of digital disruption on journalism's sustainability. Additionally, she addresses the ongoing struggles women encounter in media leadership and the critical role of investigative reporting in combating false narratives.

Luxury editor Robert Williams, a key voice in the fashion industry, sheds light on the unexpected slowdown in the luxury market. He discusses the impact of economic uncertainties and inflation on consumer purchasing power in the U.S. and Europe. Highlighting China's retreat from luxury spending as a major driver, Williams emphasizes changing consumer behaviors and the fading appeal of high-priced accessories. He also explores strategies brands can adopt to adapt while maintaining exclusivity in a challenging landscape.

In this engaging conversation, Sammy Basso, who has progeria, discusses his remarkable journey of resilience and passion for life. Annastasia Seebohm Giacomini, his friend and interviewer, delves into how Sammy embraces positivity despite daily challenges. He emphasizes the need for gratitude, community, and scientific research in combating adversity. Sammy shares his belief in living fully and the importance of being a unique version of oneself, inspiring listeners to find hope and purpose in their own lives.

Daniel-Yaw Miller, a sports correspondent and expert on fashion's crossover with athletics, discusses the booming partnerships between luxury brands and sports teams. He highlights how authenticity drives these collaborations, citing Arsenal's runways at their stadium as an example. Miller emphasizes athletes as influential brands themselves, reshaping engagement with diverse audiences. The conversation also touches on successful collaborations in Formula One and football, while exploring the cultural relevance and evolution of sponsorships in today's sports landscape.