Image: Max Cisotti/Dave Bennett/Getty Images
This is the latest fashion newsThursday.
Mulberry Relaunches Ready-to-Wear With Christopher Kane
After a six-year hiatus, Mulberry is bringing back ready-to-wear and appointing Christopher Kane as creative director of the category. The collection will launch in September and hit stores from January 2027. “It is an honor to join Mulberry, a brand with a rich British history and a deep commitment to art,” Kane said in a press release. “I look forward to working closely with Andrea and the team to create a new chapter in ready-to-wear that celebrates the spirit of Mulberry.” {Mulberry}
Henkel for Olaplex
Henkel acquires hair care brand Olaplex for $1.4 billion. The agreement expands Henkel’s portfolio and allows Olaplex to develop its product innovation. “This transaction allows us to expand our presence in premium hair care. This product creates compelling opportunities for future growth and innovation,” Henkel CEO Carsten Knobel said in a press release. {Henkel}
Matthew Williams Appointed Oakley Creative Director
Former Givenchy creative director Matthew Williams has joined Oakley as creative director of apparel, footwear and accessories. He was tasked with prioritizing brand innovation and drawing on Oakley’s DNA to create collections driven by performance and lifestyle. “Oakley has such a rich heritage, with a history rooted in global sports and culture,” Williams said in a press release. “I am honored to join the company and look forward to working together with Travis and the entire Oakley team to guide the brand into a new era.” {Oakley}
LuisaViaRoma’s Last Attempt Before Facing Elimination
On Tuesday, LuisaViaRoma filed for “Concordato Semplificato,” an inter-court procedure under Italian bankruptcy law. It allows the Court of Florence to review and approve the business plan for changing the tailer. If it is rejected, the company will be put into legal liquidation. This also comes amid the Filcams Cgil trade union urging LuisaViaRoma workers to go on strike. {WWD/paid}
Rickie De Sole’s Next Step
After Rickie De Sole’s exit from Nordstrom, the executive is taking on two new gigs: He has been appointed style and fashion editor for the weekly digital magazine Air Mail and will be a senior advisor at the private investment fund Sandbridge Capital. In the former, he will oversee the development and editorial strategy of fashion and style, including the production of a weekly column and newsletter. At Sandbridge Capital, De Sole will help identify high-growth consumer brands to add to the portfolio. {WWD/paid}
Kizik’s Hands-Free Technology Works with New Balance
New Balance has agreed to a licensing partnership with HandsFree Labs (HFL), the technology behind Kizik. HFL’s patented handsfree entry technology will be included in future New Balance shoes, starting in 2027. {Ujo Shop inbox}
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