This is Thursday’s fashion news.
Stella McCartney announces second collaboration with H&M
H&M has revealed Stella McCartney as its latest designer collaborator. The collection comes 20 years after the duo first collaborated in November 2005. “I see this collection as a journey through my fashion history,” McCartney said in a press release. “It’s a real mix of the latest classics and some of my old favorites that reflect my first foray into fashion and the development of my signatures. Playful, strong, shiny, fun, refined.” The Stella McCartney H&M collection will be launched on May 7.
Victoria Beckham talks about Gap partnership and business growth
With his new cover story noWSJ. MagazineVictoria Beckham gets candid about her business, discussing how she went from debt to record profits, calling it a “big change.” The former Spice Girl also talks about her brand’s new collaboration with Gap – a 38-piece collection of jean jackets, trench coats, dresses and T-shirts priced from $34 to $328. “When I look at the marketing power of the Gap, that’s huge for me,” he said. “It allows me to reach a customer I haven’t reached yet.” {WSJ. Magazine/paid}
Barneys may return to Madison Avenue
Authentic Brands Group (ABG) Chairman and CEO Jamie Salter is reportedly in talks with the owner of the property at 660 Madison Avenue – the former home of Barneys New York – about reopening the store. After Barneys went under in 2019 and closed its doors, Authentic Brands Group bought the company. Saks Fifth Avenue originally had exclusive rights to sell Barneys in the United States, but due to the bankruptcy of Saks Global earlier this year, ABG can officially move forward with what would be Barneys’ celebratory return. {WWD}
Allbirds is turning to AI
After five years of failing to expand its customer base and turn a profit, Allbirds sold its business to a product management company for $39 million – less than 1% of its previous $4 billion valuation. Now, with all of its assets gone, the company has announced a “pivot” into artificial intelligence. In a press release, the brand based in San Francisco shared that an “institutional investor” contributed $50 million to finance the change. Given that the business will no longer be about selling sneakers, it will also change its name from Allbirds to NewBird AI. {allbirds}
Kering has a stake in Chinese Fashion Group Icicle
On Thursday, Kering announced that it will take a small stake in Chinese Fashion Group ICCF, known as Icicle. In a press release, Kering said, “This partnership combines ICCF’s deep understanding of China’s environment and cultural landscape with Kering’s long-term expertise in technology, operations and product development in Europe.” The statement continues, “Kering’s investment will support the next phase of development of ICCF’s flagship brand Icicle, including the continued growth of the international brand, and the enrichment of its product offering in new categories.” Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed. {Kering}
Founder Tomboyx returns to leadership of the brand, regaining a controlling interest
Gender-inclusive underwear and apparel brand Tomboyx has returned its controlling interest to founder Fran Dunaway, “marking a new chapter focused on sustainable growth, creative evolution, and long-term sustainability,” according to a press release. Dunaway also returns to a leadership role as founder and president, and will work closely with a small group of brand investors. “Ensuring that tomboyx stays true to its roots is deeply personal to me,” Dunaway said in a statement. “We’ve always believed that what you wear can change the way you feel about yourself, and I’m excited about how we’re evolving creatively while staying true to who we are.”
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