MARKET UPDATE
HUGO DENIM-FOCUSED NEW LINE
For Summer 2024, HUGO has revealed a global campaign spotlighting its distinct lines: the HUGO main line and the new HUGO BLUE. The main line continues its tradition of elevated casual wear and innovative tailoring, featuring modern suits in soft pastels alongside metallic pieces, logo print separates, cropped tops, and statement accessories. In contrast, HUGO BLUE emphasizes denim, infused with streetwear and gender-neutral options. Denim pieces include jeans, skirts, jackets, trench coats, shirts, and shorts, complemented by slouchy, printed jerseys and bold logo details. The color palette features shades of blue, black, and white. hugo.com
ALBERTO CORDUROY
Corduroy, with its soft touch and elegant look, is a unique fabric. This season, Alberto has introduced Luxury Corduroys made from Italian premium corduroy with a high viscose content. Alberto’s past ranges have already featured great attention to detail, particularly in the dyeing process. The luxury range presents elaborately piece-dyed styles in berry, black, navy, off-white, and turquoise, all with an exceptionally soft surface sheen. Previous ranges, including Babycord, Soft Corduroy, and Dusty Corduroy, have been extended featuring multiple colorways and effortlessly combining comfort with style. alberto-pants.com
POLARTEC NYLON JUST GOT BETTER
Polartec has announced an upgrade of two of its legacy product lines, now using Biolon, a plant-based nylon fiber and membrane that redefines sustainability standards for performance fabrics. This renewable, non-GMO, plant-based nylon features a 50% lower carbon footprint compared to virgin Nylon 6/6, which is the benchmark for other nylons. Polartec Power Shield and Power Stretch Pro fabrics containing Biolon fibers and membranes are set to premiere this autumn. This innovation highlights Polartec’s sustainability journey, emphasizing the commitment to increasing recycled and bio-inputs across its range, to reduce its carbon footprint and fossil fuels dependency. polartec.com
TRANOÏ FIRST EVENT IN TOKYO
Marking a significant moment in the fashion industry, the inaugural Tokyo event by Tranoï on September 4 and 5 will fuse Japanese and international design excellence. This premiere will showcase 150 handpicked designers, covering a wide array of ready-to-wear, accessories, and lifestyle, in line with global trends. An exclusive partnership with the Japan Fashion Week Organization amplifies the event's aim to nurture growth and enhance the global stature of design. Tranoï Tokyo will take place at Bellesalle Shibuya First, a renowned fashion hub in Tokyo's Shibuya district. tokyo.tranoi.com
CALVIN KLEIN GLOBAL AMBASSADOR UNVEILED
Calvin Klein announced its new global brand ambassador, Jung Kook, a well-known South Korean musician, for its Spring 2024 campaign, captured by Mert Alas. The collection refreshes wardrobe essentials with the brand’s youthful energy and distinctive minimalist aesthetic. The 90s Straight Fit Jeans revisit the classic denim silhouette with a touch of nostalgia, while the Oversized Monogram T-shirt reimagines an essential piece with a subtle twist on the famous Calvin Klein monogram logo. The line elevates timeless pieces with unique flair, showcasing the brand’s authentic appeal to a new generation. calvinklein.com
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF DEPARTMENT STORES (IADS) GLOBAL RETAIL NAVIGATES NEW HORIZONS
In 2022, department stores steered a mix of recoveries and challenges, according to the IADS Global Department Store Monitor. Europe experienced a 7% increase in turnover, while the Americas and Asia showed flat overall results. The monitor offers a detailed industry benchmark, considering diverse fiscal periods and reports worldwide. The year underscored retailers' resilience and strategy, with outcomes mirroring the complex global retail scene. Looking ahead, the industry is trending towards privatization and AI technology integration, indicating a transformative future for department store retail. iads.substack.com