This week in fashion news includes the opening of Polène’s new store in London, French Connection’s brand refresh, and leadership changes at Mugler.
This week in fashion news, several key developments are emerging from the London and global fashion scene, as detailed by TheIndustry.fashion team.
First, French brand Polène has made a significant impression with its newly opened store on Regent Street in London. The establishment has garnered attention for its exceptional quality products, elevated design, and outstanding customer service. Patrons have noted the striking minimalist architecture of the store, which enhances the grandeur of Regent Street while incorporating sustainable elements such as fixtures made from leather off-cuts. The store has attracted crowds, evident from regular queues outside, and reflects a broader trend of discerning consumers who prioritize a balance of design, quality, and service in their shopping experiences. Lauretta Roberts, Co-founder, CEO and Editor-in-Chief, expressed admiration for Polène’s approach and recommended it as a model of success in the fashion retail landscape.
In another development, French Connection is actively reshaping its brand identity with the introduction of a new campaign that highlights the raw and unpolished moments of life. This campaign showcases its latest collection and marks a significant step in re-establishing the brand as a competitor in high street fashion. Helen Gallagher, who took over as Head of Design in August 2023, shared insights into her vision for the brand following a successful press event. Gallagher underscored the importance of customer feedback in the design process, noting that her goal is to infuse fresh energy into French Connection, which aims to resonate with a broader audience.
Meanwhile, Mugler has appointed Miguel Castro Freitas as its new Creative Director, succeeding Casey Cadwallader. Freitas’s appointment comes after Cadwallader’s impactful tenure, which began in 2018. Cadwallader revitalized the house, integrating archival elements that appealed to fashion enthusiasts and collaborating with H&M earlier this year. Freitas, who has an extensive background that includes roles at prestigious fashion houses such as Christian Dior Couture and Givenchy, is set to unveil his first collection for Mugler during the upcoming Paris Fashion Week in September. This leadership change adds to the trend of frequent creative director shifts in the fashion industry.
On the retail policy front, many operators in the retail sector have voiced dissatisfaction with recent government reports, specifically Rachel Reeves’ Spring Statement. Industry leaders expressed concern that the statement fails to address pressing business needs on the high street. As retailers anticipate rising employment costs, some feel that the lack of initiatives aimed at job creation and support for private sector employment could exacerbate the economic challenges faced by businesses. Issues surrounding business rates and the absence of VAT-free shopping for tourists remain contentious topics that retailers believe are not receiving adequate attention.
Lastly, the streetwear brand Prohibited, founded in Berlin in 2021, is making headway in the UK market, primarily through ASOS. The brand’s rapid ascent, dubbed “TikTok-first,” has led to its first autumn-winter season becoming the second most successful menswear launch for the online retailer, behind Carhartt. Brand co-founder Patrick Reimann discussed the brand’s strategy during an interview, emphasizing an appeal that combines athletic elegance with streetwear. As Prohibited continues to grow, it is poised to secure partnerships with additional retail players in the UK market in the coming months.
These highlights illustrate a dynamic week within the fashion industry, reflecting ongoing transformations in retail strategies, brand identities, and market reactions to economic policy.
Source: Noah Wire Services
