Fashion, at its core, is a powerful barometer of culture, reflecting the shifts and evolutions of society itself. Each week, the fashion world delivers moments that not only spark conversation but also push the industry forward, blending tradition with innovation, creativity with commerce. This week was no different, offering a series of impactful developments, from game-changing appointments to exciting partnerships and heartwarming tributes to industry legends.
In this editorial, I delve into the five most significant moments in fashion this week. These are the stories that are shaping the industry’s trajectory, blending past legacies with future ambitions. Whether it’s a renowned designer taking on a legendary brand or a collaboration that merges high fashion with streetwear, these moments highlight fashion’s ability to influence both culture and commerce on a global scale.
Haider Ackermann’s Appointment at Tom Ford: A New Era Begins
Haider Ackermann stepping into the role of creative director at Tom Ford marks a significant turning point for the iconic luxury brand. The appointment comes at a time when Tom Ford is undergoing a period of transition following its $2.8 billion acquisition by The Estée Lauder Companies and Ermenegildo Zegna Group. For Ackermann, known for his unique blend of sensuality and sharp tailoring, this role presents an exciting opportunity to merge his distinctive aesthetic with the bold, glamorous codes that Tom Ford has established since its founding in 2005.
Ackermann’s career has been defined by his ability to infuse emotion into structured designs, an approach that resonates with the sleek, provocative ethos of Tom Ford. His experience running his own eponymous label for nearly two decades, coupled with stints at Berluti, Fila, and Maison Ullens, positions him as seasoned creative force ready to take the helm of one of fashion’s most celebrated houses.
The anticipation is building for Ackermann’s first collection for Tom Ford, set to debut at Paris Fashion Week in March 2025. Ford, himself, known for his exacting standards, has publicly endorsed Ackermann, describing him as an “incredible colorist” with a modern, compelling vision. With Ackermann at the creative forefront, we can expect to see the brand continue to evolve, particularly in the womenswear category, which Zegna is keen to expand.
Why this matters: Haider Ackermann’s appointment signal a strategic and creative pivot for Tom Ford. His mastery of tailoring and keen understanding of fashion’s emotional impact are poised to take the brand in new, exciting directions, while preserving the legacy that Tom Ford built over the years. This is a critical moment for a brand that has defined contemporary luxury, and Ackermann’s vision could propel it to new heights.
Simon Porte Jacquemus Honored with the 2024 Couture Council Award: A Testament to Innovation
Few designers have captured the imagination of the fashion world quite like Simon Porte Jacquemus. This week, the founder and creative director of Jacquemus was honored with the prestigious 2024 Couture Council Award for Artistry of Fashion. Jacquemus’ playful, sun-drenched designs have become a defining feature of modern French fashion, characterized by minimalist silhouettes, whimsical details, and an effortless sense of joie de vivre.
Receiving the Couture Council Award is not just a testament to Jacquemus’ creativity but also to his remarkable entrepreneurial spirit. He founded his eponymous label at just 19, driven by a singular vision and a desire to tell stories through fashion. Over the years, his brand has grown into a global sensation, beloved for its accessible luxury and the emotional resonance of its designs.
As Jacquemus prepares to open his first U.S. store in SoHo this October, the award feels like a fitting culmination of a career that has consistently pushed boundaries while maintaining a strong sense of identity. The American market is notoriously competitive, but Jacquemus’ blend of French charm and contemporary relevance positions him perfectly to capture the attention of U.S. consumers.
Why this matters: Simon Porte Jacquemus’ recognition by the Couture Council underscores his influence as one of fashion’s most exciting and innovative designers. As he continues to expand his global footprint, his ability to combine commercial success with artistic integrity sets a new standard for what it means to be a modern fashion entrepreneur.
Kith x Giorgio Armani: A High-Low Collaboration Redefining Luxury
When Kith founder Ronnie Fieg announced a collaboration with Giorgio Armani, it raised more than a few eyebrows. The partnership between a leading streetwear brand and one of fashion’s most revered luxury houses seemed unlikely at first glance. However, the result – a capsule collection titled “The Archetypes” – has proven to be a masterclass in blending two seemingly disparate words.
The collection is divided into four distinct capsules: The Artist, The Entertainer, The Traveler, and The Entrepreneur. Each segment reflects a different aspect of Armani’s influence on global fashion, with suiting at the heart of each look. From black double – breasted suits to rich navy velvet pieces, the collection pay homage to Armani’s legendary tailoring while incorporating Kith’s signature urban cool.
What makes this collaboration truly remarkable is how seamlessly it integrates both brands’ aesthetics. Fieg’s admiration for Armani is evident in every piece, and the campaign – fronted by notable figures like Martin Scorsese, Lakeith Stanfield, and Pierce Brosnan – adds another layer of cultural significance. This is not just a collection; it’s a celebration of the archetypal man who embodies elegance, creativity, and influence.
Why this matters: The Kith x Giorgio Amrani collaboration highlights the evolving nature of luxury in the 21st century. By merging high fashion with streetwear, this partnership reflects a broader trend of fashion democratization, where traditional boundaries between luxury and everyday wear are increasingly blurred. It’s a move that speaks to the modern consumer’s desire for versatility, authenticity, and cultural resonance.
Sacai and Bergdorf Goodman Celebrate Bill Cunningham: A Tribute to Fashion’s Most Iconic Photographer
This week, Sacai and Bergdorf Goodman came together to celebrate the legacy of the late Bill Cunningham, one of fashion’s most beloved and influential photographers. Cunningham, who spent decades chronicling the vibrant street style of New York City, left an indelible mark on the fashion world. His ability to capture the intersection of fashion, culture, and everyday life was unparalleled.
The event, held at Goodman’s Bar in Bergdorf’s men’s store, coincided with the release of The Battle of Versailles: The Fashion Showdown of 1973, a book that documents one of the most pivotal moments in fashion history. Cunningham’s photographs of the iconic showdown between American and French designers are featured in the book, offering a rare glimpse into an era that reshaped the global fashion landscape.
Sacai’s creative director, Chitose Abe, paid homage to Cunningham’s signature workwear – specifically, his iconic blue jacket – with a capsule collection of her own. The collection reflects Cunningham’s utilitarian approach to fashion, blending beauty and function in a way that feels both modern and timeless.
Why this matters: Bill Cunningham’s legacy is a reminder that fashion is not just about spectacle; it’s about capturing the world around us. This tribute underscores the importance of documenting fashion’s evolution and its impact on culture. As fashion continues to evolve, Cunningham’s work serves as a guiding light, illustrating how style can be both personal and universal.
First Lady Jill Biden Speaks at “Fashion for Our Future” March: Fashion’s Role in Political Activism
Fashion and politics converge in a powerful way this week as First Lady Jill Biden made a surprise appearance at the Fashion for Our Future march in New York City. The event, organized by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), aimed to encourage voter registration ahead of the upcoming U.S. elections. It was a moment that highlighted fashion’s unique ability to engage with social and political issues, reminding us that the industry is not just about aesthetics but also about values.
The march, which drew over 1,000 fashion professionals, featured prominent designers such as Prabal Gurung, Michael Kors, and Thom Browne, alongside activists like Aurora James. Jill Biden’s speech focused on the importance of voting and the role that fashion can play in shaping the future of society. She spoke about her own journey with voting and how it has influenced her life, using her platform to inspire others to take action.
The event served as a powerful reminder that fashion, with its vast cultural reach, can be a force for change. Whether it’s promoting voter registration or advocating for important social issues like gun violence prevention, the industry has the potential to shape public discourse and inspire meaningful action.
Why this matters: The Fashion for Our Future march is a testament to the role that fashion can play in political and social activism. It’s a remainder that the industry has the power to influence beyond the runway, using its platform to address issues that impact the broader community. As fashion continues to evolve, its engagement with political activism will only grow more important.
Final Thoughts: A Week That Redefines Fashion’s future
This week’s fashion moments have one thing in common: they all point to the future of fashion as an industry that is not only creative and innovative but also deeply engaged with the world around it. Whether it’s Haider Ackermann’s appointment at Tom Ford or Simon Porte Jacquemus’ rising influence, the fashion world is evolving in ways that reflect both tradition and modernity.
The collaborations and tributes of the week also demonstrate how fashion continues to merge high and low, old and new, tradition and innovation. Kith and Armani’s partnership exemplifies how seemingly contrasting brands can create something extraordinary, while Sacai’s tribute to Bill Cunningham reminds us of the importance of documenting fashion’s history.
As fashion increasingly intersects with culture, politics, and social issues, it’s clear that the industry’s influence extends far beyond clothing. Fashion is a lens through which we can understand the world, and this week’s highlights reflect just how powerful that lens can be.
So, what’s next for fashion? It this week is any indication, the future will be one of bold moves, exciting collaborations, and continued commitment to shaping not just what we wear bit how we think about the world around us.
Stay tuned, fashion is only just getting started.
Stay stylish,
DASSARIS
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