The Glossy Podcast

Menswear brand True Classic started out in 2019 with a singular focus: improving on the classic T-shirt. But in the last six years, the brand has scaled profitably and diversified its product categories to include activewear, denim and chinos, among other products. There's even womenswear on the horizon, as well as more physical stores opening throughout the year. Ben Yahalom, formerly president of the brand who took over as CEO last summer, stopped by the Glossy Podcast to talk about some of the ways True Classic is continuing to evolve, including in physical retail and through an ever-expanding marketing strategy that's not focused on just one channel.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and special guest host Tom Nowak, CMO of the Midwest-based fashion retailer Evereve, break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. Tom and Danny discuss the murky gray area marketers are finding themselves in thanks to the TikTok ban, the sudden rise to popularity of Chinese sneaker brand Anta, and the recent layoffs at mass retailers including Kohl’s, JCPenney and Macy’s.

President of the contemporary fashion brand Derek Lam 10 Crosby since July, Danielle Alalu has big plans for the company, which include growing its annual revenue from $35 million to $60 million over the next three years and hosting its first New York Fashion Week presentation next week. On this week’s episode of the Glossy Podcast, Alalu discusses her strategies for developing the brand, growing its sales and expanding its global footprint. She also talks about the brand perks of being under the Public Clothing Company umbrella, the way forward following creative officer Derek Lam’s departure from the company, and the business challenges she’s navigating under the Trump administration.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about Paris Men’s Fashion Week, including a matrimonial show from JordanLuca and the debut of Pharrell’s latest collaboration, with Nigo, for Louis Vuitton. Later, we talk about the first week of the Trump presidency and how everything from implementing tariffs to withdrawing from the Paris Agreement will affect the fashion industry.

In the fall of 2024, the NFL hired its first fashion editor, Kyle Smith. The timing felt right, considering the increasing number of fashion and sports collaborations that had rolled out in the months prior, fueled in part by the Summer Olympics. There was also the growing interest in “tunnel fits,” thanks to social media providing more access to athletes’ lives off the field. Smith joined the NFL with a fashion resume that included writing for magazines, doing brand PR and styling under Karla Welch. For this week’s episode of the Glossy Podcast, Smith joined host Jill Manoff to discuss the influence of athletes’ style, the current fashion-sports relationship and the responsibilities he has in his new role. He also recaps his recent trips to international fashion weeks and shares his process for styling his clients, including Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and editor-in-chief Jill Manoff break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we report some of our observations from the National Retail Federation’s Big Show in Manhattan. Later, we talk about the departure of Proenza Schouler’s founders and where they may go next, as well as the looming TikTok ban.

Brian Berger founded the men’s basics brand Mack Weldon over a decade ago just as the DTC boom was about to begin. Mack Weldon rode that wave to success, but the landscape for DTC brands has changed significantly since then. On this week’s episode of the Glossy Podcast, we talk with Berger about the importance of flexibility, the ways he's navigated Mack Weldon through a challenging few years and the brand’s first big TV marketing spot.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and editor-in-chief Jill Manoff break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about the devastating wildfires hitting the West Coast and how brands are responding. Later, we discuss True Religion’s recent acquisition and consumers' frustration with hosiery brand Wolford’s slow order deliveries.

The MoMA Design Store has earned a reputation as a destination for product discovery and a source of cool, limited-edition, gift-worthy finds. On the fashion side, those have included exclusive collaborations with Champion and New Era. On this week’s Glossy Podcast, the curator behind the store’s assortment, MoMA Retail's Chay Costello, breaks down her merchandising secrets.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we discuss the swing away from sustainability among large companies including Walmart. Later, we talk about brands' strategies for dealing with fraudulent returns and the Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami collaboration's grand return.

On this episode of the Glossy Podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi, editor-in-chief Jill Manoff and managing editor Tatiana Pile take a look ahead at 2025. We discuss some of the big stories we expect to dominate our coverage in 2025, including the impact of the new Trump administration, the potential bounceback of the luxury industry, the continued rise of resale and rental, and the ways brands may rethink their distribution channels. Later, we share some of our predictions for 2025. Thanks for listening to the Glossy Podcast throughout 2024!

This year, the Glossy Podcast featured top executives from fashion’s leading companies discussing the challenges they’re navigating and the strategies they’re investing in, among other topics. Throughout the conversations, several topics surfaced repeatedly. They included the changing role of department stores, the importance of opening stores and the perks of a strong brand heritage at a time when a brand story is everything. Navigating the right time to fundraise and catering to new consumer shopping behaviors, especially as a result of inflation, were also top topics. This special Year in Review episode features highlights from the year’s podcasts broken down by these topics. Have a listen to hear from industry insiders including Carolina Herrera creative director Wes Gordon, Tibi founder and creative director Amy Smilovic, and Etsy president and Chief Growth Officer Kruti Patel Goyal.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and editor-in-chief Jill Manoff break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about the complications around the ongoing merger between Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus that would put almost every major American luxury department store under one company. Later, we talk about interesting tidbits from Inditex’s earnings and offer a preview of who’s showing and when at Paris Men’s Fashion Week.

Since launching her namesake, NYC-based fine jewelry brand in 2013, Stephanie Gottlieb has leveraged pop culture to her company’s advantage. That has included using her large social media presence to introduce new styles, for example, and getting the brand’s jewelry pieces on major stars at major moments – think: the “87” necklace worn by Taylor Swift at the 2024 Super Bowl. On the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast, Gottlieb — who serves as her company’s CEO and designer — discusses those marketing strategies and others the brand is tackling, including collaborations. She also shares how her company, which has remained loyal to natural diamonds, is navigating the rise of lab-grown options and how it’s been hitting the gas on growth over the past two years.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and West Coast correspondent Lexy Lebsack break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we take a look at the looming TikTok ban, which looks likelier than ever now that three federal judges have ruled that the ban does not violate the First Amendment. Later, we talk about Coty securing the licensing deal to make Swarovski-branded fragrances and the growing appeal of licensing as a business model.

What started as a luxury swimwear brand nearly 10 years has transformed into a successful fashion label that introduced denim, resortwear and kidswear this year. Launched by Shea Marie, an influencer-turned-founder, and her co-founder Ryan Horne, Same has become one of the buzziest swimwear brands on the market, with A-list fans such as Beyoncé, Hailey Beiber and Kendall Jenner. "The growth has happened very fast. Our sales have been tripling, quadrupling each year," Marie said on the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast. To that point, both Marie and Horne said that they've been focused on growing their team. The brand plans to evolve its DTC strategy and open a retail store next year. Plus, more categories, including footwear and accessories, are on the horizon. In this week's episode of Glossy's Podcast, Marie and Horne discuss what's fueling Same's expansion nearly 10 years in and why an established audience is impactful when building a brand.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about Nike shutting down its 2021 acquisition, NFT company RTFKT, as well as the current state of the much-diminished NFT market. Later, we discuss London Fashion Week’s decision to ban exotic skins and the results from Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

After exclusively working with Nike for 27 years, until January 2024, Tiger Woods is putting his expert stamps on golf apparel and accessories again — this time, under the Sun Day Red label. Not so coincidentally launched in January, beginning with select golf clothing styles, Sun Day Red is best described as a collaboration between Woods and the 45-year-old golf gear brand TaylorMade. As of Wednesday, the company took a significant step by introducing its first golf shoes, developed according to Woods’s specifications and tested by the legend on the course. According to Charley Hudak, the brand’s senior creative director of footwear, and Tyler Pinkos, its head of footwear development and sourcing — who both joined the Glossy Podcast for this week’s episode — the introductory Pioneer Cypress style is the first of many Sun Day Red shoes that will be hitting the market. Running shoes, Chelsea boots and dress loafers could eventually be found in the brand’s assortment. Also on the podcast, Hudak and Pinkos discussed the process of working with Woods on product development, the growth potential for Sun Day Red and the opportunity to build a Smithsonian-worthy shoe.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and editor-in-chief Jill Manoff break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about the ongoing dominance of Abercrombie & Fitch and the continued drama between Boohoo and its minority owner Frasers Group. Later, we talk about the lawsuit between two influencers that raises some fascinating questions about the lawlessness of the creator economy.

Since launching nine years ago in Byron Bay, Australia, Nagnata has been evolving from a local “movement wear” brand, focused on premium-knit activewear styles, to a global lifestyle brand selling categories including ready-to-wear, swimwear and menswear. More categories are coming next year, as are the brand’s first international stores. According to founder Laura May Gibbs, who joined the Glossy Podcast this week, Nagnata has its sights set on a New York store, following a successful experience hosting a Soho pop-up in September. The U.S. is Nagnata’s second-largest market, following Australia, thanks in part to the brand’s retail partners which have worked wonders for awareness. They currently include Bergdorf Goodman, Ssense and Louisaviaroma, plus Net-a-Porter’s support gave the brand legs early on. It’s not bad for a brand that has been completely self-funded. On the podcast episode, Gibbs discusses Nagnata’s values-driven processes, which have earned it a dedicated fan following. She also discusses its growth plans and its Patagonia-like holiday strategy.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about Black Friday and some of the ways brands are approaching the holiday shopping season. Later, we discuss Target’s struggles to keep up with rivals like Walmart and fashion's potential return to the cryptocurrency well now that a crypto-friendly president is coming to the White House.

David’s Bridal has a leg up on other bridalwear companies. After all, “ninety percent of brides are already walking into David's front door,” according to Elina Vilk, who joined the company as its chief business officer in September. Still, the 74-year-old business has experienced its fair share of challenges, having filed for bankruptcy last year before being acquired a few months later. On the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast, Vilk discusses the opportunity she saw at David’s Bridal after working in tech for 20 years for companies including Hootsuite, Meta and Paypal. She also breaks down the pain points of modern brides and the solutions David’s Bridal is developing accordingly. They have big implications for the business, as well as the wedding-planning industry.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about the launch of Amazon Haul, which aims to compete with ultra-low-cost marketplaces like Temu. Later, we talk about movement in the sportswear industry and the growth of active brands like On Running, Hoka and Vuori. Finally, we discuss the Klarna IPO and the continued growth of buy-now, pay-later apps.

If you've been following political fashion at all, chances are you've heard of the tweed Jackie dress by Washington, D.C.-based Tuckernuck. The $268 dress has recently gone viral for being a favorite among women working on Capitol Hill. Co-founder and CEO Jocelyn Gailliot said that, since its inception in 2012, Tuckernuck has worked to fill a gap in e-commerce around women's professional wear. "Tuckernuck has always been rooted in busy, successful women and being a life hack for them," Gailliot said on the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast. The retailer offers a wide range of product categories, as well as apparel from its private label collection and buzzy brands including Ulla Johnson and Veronica Beard. Also on the podcast, Gailliot discussed what's working to win customers and how the company is leaning into the world of political fashion.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we discuss the election results and the impact of a second Trump term on fashion brands and consumers. Later, we talk about Moncler's potential acquisition of Burberry and the E.U.'s ongoing probe into Temu's practices.

As the largest retail and entertainment complex in the U.S., Minnesota-based Mall of America is currently experiencing its annual Super Bowl. Depending on who you ask, the holiday shopping season is already on — and, according to Jill Renslow, the center’s chief business and marketing officer, Mall of America is embracing every related opportunity. As in years past, its strategy for the season includes hosting dedicated events, charity initiatives and Black Friday festivities, all of which have contributed to making a holiday shopping trip to Mall of America a tradition for oodles of consumers. “About 250,000 people come to Mall of America on Black Friday,” Renslow said on the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast. “We don't even need all the traditional doorbusters. People come for the tradition and the fun experience of [shopping] Black Friday [at Mall of America].” Also on the podcast, Renslow discusses what it takes for a mall to be successful in 2024 and how she’s tackled marketing when 40% of the center’s 32 million annual visitors are tourists.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and editor-in-chief Jill Manoff break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about the immense growth of Miu Miu which defies the ongoing slowdown across luxury. We also discuss the winners of the CFDA Awards, announced this week, and the appointment of Rati Sahi Levesque as the chief executive of The RealReal, replacing short-lived CEO John Koryl.

In February, Ariel Stoddard joined 13-year-old MeUndies as its chief revenue officer, transitioning from Fabletics where she spearheaded the launch of its menswear and scrubs categories. Now, she has grand growth plans for MeUndies, which has for years experienced double-digit growth and profitability. Earlier this month, Stoddard drove the launch of a new brand direction with a campaign dubbed “Welcome to the Underworld.” But, in evolving MeUndies, she and her team are ensuring its valuable existing customers are along for the ride. “They have extremely high LTVs, and they are very loyal. Many of them have been with the brand for many, many years and counting,” Stoddard said on the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast. “That's part of our secret sauce: We have always been community-focused on the people who have been with us and given us that loyalty; we always keep them in mind.” Also on the podcast, Stoddard discussed MeUndies’ latest campaign strategy and its plan to remain “flexible” this holiday shopping season.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about the impact of China’s contracting luxury market on companies like Kering, the slowing revenue growth of Shein’s and how that will impact its upcoming IPO, and the ongoing drama at Vivienne Westwood.

Brandon Brubaker, co-founder of the 10-year-old SoCal sneaker brand Clearweather, is somewhat of a sneaker legend. In the sneaker game for 30 years, he first designed iconic sneaker styles for Vans after being recruited by the company at age 20. He then went on to launch the multimillion-dollar skate sneaker division at Nike-owned Converse. Today, Brubaker is hitting the gas on growing his own company, with a fresh round of funding, a new business partner, a relaunched website and big plans for international expansion. He’s intentionally taking a unique approach to the market, which, so far, has served his brand well. “[We decided] to stop trying to fight for dollars with Nike, which completely dominates everything, when it really comes down to it,” he said on the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast. “Instead, we want to just be a really premium California culture brand, and that's where we're at today." Also on the podcast, Brubaker discusses how the sneaker market is faring and what it takes to maintain relevance in the crowded, competitive industry.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and editor-in-chief Jill Manoff break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about the return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and how it's changed in the six years it was on hiatus. Later, we discuss what’s causing so many luxury brands to report falling sales, and Jill gives us a dispatch from Shoptalk in Chicago.

As chief creative officer of the 20-year-old jewelry brand Catbird, Leigh Batnick Plessner is always thinking of ways to bring the brand's story to life through innovative products and collaborations. In 2015, for example, Catbird introduced the concept of "getting zapped," the brand's term for custom-fitting and welding one of its solid gold Forever Bracelets on a customer's wrist. Since joining Catbird a year after its 2004 launch, Plessner has worked alongside Rony Vardi, co-owner and founder of Catbird, to grow the Williamsburg-birthed brand beyond its first 225-square-foot retail store on Metropolitan Avenue. In 2006, they opened a second location on Bedford Avenue that quickly became Catbird's flagship. Under Plessner's creative direction, Catbird also evolved into a popular retailer of demi-fine jewelry. After David Yurman alum Mo Sakurai joined the company as CEO in September 2022, Catbird has accelerated its growth mode, including by opening stores across the country. The company plans to open at least 10 more by 2026. On the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast, Plessner discusses Catbird's strategies for becoming a national brand and staying true to its mission: to create the ultimate luxury jewelry that can be repaired.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. On this week’s luxury-focused episode, we talk about Stefano Cantino being appointed the new CEO of Gucci and Kering's attempt to bring back sales growth at its biggest brand. Later, we talk about the ongoing saga around Mulberry, including the takeover bid from part-owner Frasers Group. And, finally, we discuss the new joint venture between Authentic Brands Group and Saks Global.

As the chief design officer of global innerwear at Hanesbrands, Jane Newman oversees innerwear products for all the brands in the company’s portfolio, including Hanes, Bali and Maidenform — each of which is at least 97 years old. On this week’s episode of the Glossy Podcast, Newman discusses how she’s keeping each brand relevant as the intimates category evolves – among other factors, the DTC boom and the unofficial rebranding of shapewear as “sexy” have changed the space.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we discuss Paris Fashion Week's homogeneity and safeness, Hedi Slimane’s 6-year tenure at Celine and his replacement, and LVMH’s $110 million-per-year deal with Formula 1.

Assouline, the publishing house turned luxury lifestyle brand, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year — but, it seems, it’s just getting started. Largely driven by Alexandre Assouline — the company’s chief of operations, brand and strategy and the son of its founders — Assouline is in growth mode: In addition to rolling out new product categories and services, it’s expanding its physical footprint and introducing new digital products, including a digital magazine and podcast. “The library is at the forefront of everything we do; we aim to own the library space as a luxury brand,” Assouline said on the latest Glossy Podcast. “Your library is around you and your life every day, and it says a lot about you. When someone sees your library, they can identify your areas of interest, how you put books together, and the thematics of the books that you purchase and are being gifted to you. It's a place of creativity and inspiration. And we've been in the business of developing things around the library for 30 years.” Also in the episode, Assouline discusses the company’s plans to “redefine publishing as a luxury experience.” And he shares the brand’s physical expansion plans.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and editor-in-chief Jill Manoff break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about Paris Fashion Week, particularly the contrasting shows from Dior and Saint Laurent. We also discuss Telfar’s decision to go upmarket with a higher price point, real leather and a wholesale collaboration. Finally, we explore Stitch Fix’s ailing finances and the future of styling service-based businesses.

On this week’s episode of the Glossy Podcast, we talk with Quaid Walker, the co-founder and CEO of the online watch marketplace Bezel. Bezel, like the watch market in general, has seen significant growth over the last three years. It now boasts over $500 million worth of watches coming through its marketplace annually. Millions of new watch enthusiasts are getting into the market for the first time, and secondhand marketplaces like Bezel are among the best entry points for those new customers. Walker described the early pandemic years as “a massive bull run for all collectibles.” During that period, a ceramic Rolex Daytona in the “panda” colorway, which retailed for around $13,500, was selling on the secondhand market for over $55,000. It’s since evened out somewhat to around $32,000, reflecting the broader market which has also slowed from the mania of the early 2020s. “What happened was you got a lot of new buyers entering the market who got really interested in watches,” Walker said. “And now that we have a correction in the market, you have the buyers who got into it because they love watches excited because prices are coming down and they can finally buy some of the watches they’ve lusted after. But then the buyers who were in it for the investment side are leaving the market.” The way Walker sees it, people come to Bezel — and similar pre-owned marketplaces for luxury goods — for two reasons. Either they want a luxury product that they can’t afford new, in which case they buy something for below retail price, or they are looking for something that can’t be found new because it’s vintage or limited edition, in which case they buy something over retail price. “Our job is to cater the experience for both of those customers,” Walker said. “Our promise to buyers is that we authenticate everything, we make sure everything is working the way it should, and we take a customer experience that was otherwise frustrating and make it feel accessible, quick, thoughtful and attentive.”

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and international reporter Zofia Zwieglinska break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, Zofia recaps London Fashion Week, including Burberry’s comeback attempt, and we preview some of our most anticipated shows and moments from Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks.

On this week’s episode of the Glossy Podcast, we catch up with Clare Waight Keller, named Uniqlo’s creative director early this month. Waight Keller discusses her transition from designing at luxury fashion houses to leading the creative direction at a global retail giant, and her plans for Uniqlo's future. After studying at Ravensbourne College of Art and Design and earning her master’s degree from the Royal College of Art, Waight Keller held design roles at Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. She later worked under Tom Ford at Gucci before taking the helm at Pringle of Scotland in 2005. In 2011, she became the creative director at Chloé, where her feminine, free-spirited designs took off. In 2017, she made history as the first female creative director at Givenchy, where she famously designed Meghan Markle’s wedding dress. Waight Keller is now taking on a new challenge at Uniqlo, merging her luxury design sensibilities with the brand’s technological innovations and global reach. “Good design is good design, whether it’s on a luxury runway or in a global retail store,” she said. For Waight Keller, the appeal of Uniqlo lies in its integrity and focus on quality. “What was most surprising to me was how similar the design process at Uniqlo is to that of a luxury house," she said. "We approach it with the same level of care and craftsmanship. The difference is in scale." But she doesn’t see the size of Uniqlo’s operations as a hindrance. Instead, she embraces it as a unique opportunity to reach a broader audience while maintaining a high standard of design. But one challenge she is realizing is merging fashion with innovation. “The innovation at Uniqlo is unparalleled," she said. "The access to cutting-edge fabrics and the [company's] commitment to performance-based design is something I’m really excited about.” In addition to innovation, Waight Keller is focused on sustainability. As she steps into her new role, she’s pushing Uniqlo even further toward environmentally conscious fashion. “We’re already doing a lot, but I believe we can do even more," she said. "Sustainability is crucial, but so is longevity. We want to create pieces that last, both in terms of style and durability." Uniqlo’s focus on essential, timeless pieces has been refreshing, Waight Keller said. “At Givenchy, I was designing up to 10 collections a year. At Uniqlo, it’s two. But the pressure is still there — it’s about making sure every piece is perfect. We’re creating wardrobe staples that can stand the test of time, and that’s where I find the challenge." She added, “Fashion doesn’t have to be fleeting. With Uniqlo, I’m designing for everyone, from teenagers experimenting with style to professionals looking for the perfect tailored suit." Her vision is to make high-quality, stylish clothing accessible and inclusive, across all demographics and generations. Men’s fashion at Uniqlo is a category she plans to expand. “From the first collection, we had so many men asking when we’d launch menswear. Now, it’s here, and the response has been incredible,” she said. As Waight Keller looks ahead, she's excited to build upon Uniqlo's strong foundation, she said. “I’ve got so much access to the tools I need to push the boundaries," she said. "My goal is to take Uniqlo to the next level, without losing what makes the brand special: quality, accessibility and timeless style."

This London Fashion Week brings to mind politics, with the country getting caught up in a buzzy election earlier this year, leading to a victory for the Labour party. Canadian-British designer Edeline Lee, who founded her label in 2014, has become a favorite of political figures including Victoria Starmer, wife of U.K. Labour Party leader Keir Starmer, who has been spotted wearing Lee’s creations at major public events. Known for her bold use of color, modernist approach and clean, structured silhouettes, Lee’s designs have gained widespread attention from influential women in the art world and politics alike. This year, Lee is expanding her brand in exciting ways. Alongside her vibrant new runway collection, she is introducing her first-ever footwear line and a childrenswear range, the latter of which will launch exclusively at Harrods. Known for her specialist retail approach, Lee places a strong emphasis on exclusivity and craftsmanship, using trunk shows and bespoke retail experiences to connect with her loyal customer base. Her designs have become increasingly popular in the United States, where she has cultivated a strong following through curated events and personal shopping experiences. In this London Fashion Week episode of the Glossy Podcast, Lee delves into her journey from dressing the art world to showing on the runway, her expansion into new product categories and her secrets to captivating a global audience, particularly in the U.S.

NYC-based luxury womenswear brand Lafayette 148 has earned a loyal, influential customer base in its 28-year history — many members of which turned out for the brand’s spring 2025 collection presentation in NYC’s Chelsea neighborhood on Monday. Among recognizable attendees viewing the elegant, art-inspired designs were actresses Beanie Feldstein, Rachel Brosnahan and Karen Pittman, among others. A designer at the company for 22 years, starting as a design assistant, Emily Smith is now Lafayette 148’s creative director. As such, her work is largely fueling the brand’s fandom. “It’s women dressing women,” Smith said on the latest Glossy Podcast. “We know the fuss of getting dressed in the morning and what you do and don’t want to deal with. … And we want to dress our customer seven days a week.” Also on the podcast, Smith discussed the importance of fashion week in today’s fashion ecosystem, the secrets to navigating the “up and down” luxury market, and the perks of working for a “completely vertical” company.

After training under the biggest designers in fashion, Christian Juul Nielsen has been building his own brand, Aknvas, since 2019. Now, he’s ready to take it to the next level. Juul Nielsen’s resume includes years of design roles under Christian Lacroix, John Galliano and Raf Simmons, and at brands including Dior, Oscar de la Renta and J.Mendel. In 2023, he left his post as creative director of Herve Léger to start Aknvas. The brand has since been picked up by Saks Fifth Avenue and FWRD, among other luxury retailers, and worn by “it” girls including J. Lo and Sabrina Carpenter. On Monday, Aknvas will host a runway show featuring its spring 2025 collection. It will serve as a launchpad for its first accessories: a handbag line made up of mini, boxy styles in different pastel shades. “We’ve built a platform and knowledge about the brand — it’s the right time to add accessories,” Juul Nielsen said on the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast, acknowledging the growth opportunity. He also discussed the difference between running a fashion brand in the U.S. versus Europe, the challenges of heading up both the business and the creative side of his company, and the scenario in which he’d take on an investor.

Kate Davidson Hudson is among the utmost Fashion Month experts, having experienced the shows from a variety of perspectives — as a fashion editor, a street style star and, now, a retail company founder and CEO. In March, Davidson soft-launched Vêtir, which she describes as a “smart shopping app.” It allows users to shop via an AI-powered personalized selection of styles based on their app interactions, a selection of styles populated by a personal stylist or a feed featuring the newest products from Vêtir’s luxury brand partners, among other capabilities. Vêtir recently opened a storefront in NYC’s Hudson Yards where its partner stylists and their clients can meet for IRL styling appointments. Before Vêtir, Davidson Hudson co-founded Editorialist, providing personal shopping services to luxury shoppers. And earlier in her career, she spent nearly a decade as an accessories editor at publications including Elle and Harper’s Bazaar. A fashion show regular throughout her career, she has also earned a reputation as a street-style photographer darling. On the latest Glossy Podcast, Davidson Hudson discusses her Fashion Month experience and the importance of her attendance at fashion shows today. She also discusses how Vêtir is enabling shoppable Fashion Month runways and what inspired the company’s latest event, held on the first night of New York Fashion Week. Throughout New York Fashion Week, from September 6-11, check back for more daily podcast episodes featuring influential fashion insiders, from editors to designers.

A Central Saint Martins alum and one-time CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist, designer Christian Cowan founded his namesake brand in 2017 after Lady Gaga’s support thrust him into the spotlight. Today, the London native who now resides in NYC is well-known for his fun, attention-grabbing designs. They’ve been selling at retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue since Cowan became serious about growing the business. “You’ve got to grow the business so you can do bigger and bolder creative ideas — it’s about being able to facilitate a bigger creative vision,” Cowan says on the Glossy Podcast. “I love the hustle and strategy behind growing a brand that survives.” Also on the podcast, Cowan discusses his New York Fashion Week Spring 2025 collection and stress-free approach to the corresponding show. He also shares his take on why “meteoric rises” of designers no longer happen in fashion. Throughout New York Fashion Week, from September 6-11, check back for more daily podcast episodes featuring influential fashion insiders, from editors to designers.

Started in Brazil 22 years ago by creative director Patricia Bonaldi, Patbo expanded to the U.S. in 2017 and has since hit its stride in the states. For example, to answer demand, it opened a store in Miami earlier this year. Ahead of the brand’s September 10 runway show at New York Fashion Week, Bonadi joined the Glossy Podcast to discuss Patbo’s growth, as well as the strategies that are working to its advantage. For example, it’s leaned into its customers’ demand for runway pieces, marketing them as such and selling select styles in its stores. And it’s maintained its product focus on handwork and craftsmanship, whether or not the look fits the vibe of the moment. “By looking at how others work, you lose yourself,” Bonaldi said. “I care about consistency and evolution, not [industry] trends.” Bonadi also discussed how Patbo’s business is faring as traveling and going out — two events for which Patbo styles seem made — have held steady as choice pastimes. Throughout New York Fashion Week, from September 6-11, check back for more daily podcast episodes featuring influential fashion insiders, from editors to designers.

At a time when DEI initiatives are regressing and investment in BIPOC brands is dropping, Raise Fashion continues to make an impact. As described by Felita Harris, a founding board member and now the CEO of the nonprofit organization, Raise has remained dedicated to advancing the equity of BIPOC talent in the fashion industry since its launch in 2020. "Represented individuals have an ecosystem where they can network, receive financial opportunities and distribute their products with a certain level of ease. Underrepresented talent does not have the same opportunities. So we are building a pro bono and operational ecosystem that services the voices of underrepresented, often BIPOC talent,” Harris said on the latest episode of the Glossy Podcast. For example, through a Masterclass series, Raise awards and supports 10 BIPOC designers each year. On Wednesday, this year’s Masterclass designers, including Fe Noel, Charles Harbison and K.NGSLEY, will present their spring 2025 collections at a New York Fashion Week event hosted by Raise Fashion and sponsored by Abercrombie & Fitch. “For us, it's about creating this environment where [BIPOC] designers can receive the information they need — the networking and resources that are required to scale,” Harris said. “And they're doing it in a community that wants to embrace the change and inclusion that is necessary to evolve the fashion industry.” Harris also discussed the state of diversity in fashion, the importance of NYFW participation and Raise Fashion’s long-term mission.

On the Glossy Week in Review podcast, senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi and editor-in-chief Jill Manoff break down some of the biggest fashion news of the week. This week, we talk about Nordstrom's earnings results and what they mean for the struggling luxury retail sector, thirsty Jeremy Allen White's second campaign for Calvin Klein, and Walmart’s move to start selling pre-owned luxury goods.

After 16 years in business, advanced contemporary fashion brand L’Agence is hitting the gas on growth. On top of introducing a Jean Bar retail concept, starting with a new store in L.A., the brand is expanding internationally to Europe and Asia — since early July, it’s opened stores in Paris and Seoul. Category expansion is also a key part of the strategy: In the last three years, L’Agence has launched shoes and swimwear, and it will soon introduce sleepwear, intimate apparel and belts. In addition, building on the success of a recent candle release, the brand will be going deeper into the home category. And a future beauty category, complete with cosmetics and fragrances made in Paris, is in the works. According to L’Agence founder and chairman Jeff Rudes, customer behavior will determine the timing of the home and beauty category launches. “She has to be so brand loyal that she’ll pick up the bottle [of perfume] at Saks and say, ‘I’ve got to try this.’ We’re not there yet,” he said. ”We’re very realistic about how to grow the brand. … She has to trust us and vote for what we’re doing. It’s all about timing. We have to get her to love more of what we’re doing, and then we’ll capture her [as a customer in other categories], for sure.” Also on the podcast, Rudes and L’Agence fashion director Tara Rudes-Dann spoke about their New York Fashion Week plans, the new standards in customer service, and the road to “lifestyle brand.”