Y/Project Closes
Y/Project, a brand that redefined denim, is closing its doors. Known for its daring deconstructions and cult following, Y/Project was unable to find a buyer amid the luxury spending slowdown. The Paris commercial court placed the brand into bankruptcy on September 26th, following the passing of co-founder Gilles Elalouf and the departure of creative director Glenn Martens. The challenges Y/Project faced mirror those confronting many in the industry today. Political and economic instability, compounded by the lingering effects of the pandemic, have created a turbulent landscape for luxury brands. Y/Project leaves behind a legacy that includes winning the ANDAM Grand Prize in 2017 and reaching the finals of the 2016 LVMH Prize for Young Designers, under Martens’ leadership—who first joined the brand as Yohan Serfaty’s assistant and took over creative reins after Serfaty’s untimely death in 2013. To honor its legacy, Y/Project plans to donate several archive pieces to institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, Antwerp’s MoMu fashion museum, Palais Galliera in Paris, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. Reflecting on the journey, Y/Project released a statement: “Y/Project and the team thank all partners and Y/P supporters for their unwavering dedication to the brand throughout the years. Special thanks to Glenn Martens, Pascal Conte-Jodra, and the late Gilles Elalouf for giving their team the space to create and grow.” [WWD]
The British Fashion Council Taps Laura Weir as CEO
The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced Laura Weir, previously the chief creative officer at Selfridges, as its new CEO, effective April 28th. Laura will succeed Caroline Rush, who revealed in September her decision to step down after nearly 16 years of leadership and will officially exit in June. BFC chair David Pemse said, “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Laura Weir as incoming CEO of the BFC. Laura has worked alongside established and emerging designers, creative talent, industry leaders, and press throughout her career over the past two decades. Her experience gives her an understanding of the complexities of the fashion industry ecosystem, as well as the strategic foresight to be able to lead positive transformation and initiatives to drive the next chapter of the BFC, both domestically and globally, supported by a brilliant team.” Laura’s career began in fashion journalism, holding key roles such as fashion editor at Drapers, fashion features director at The Sunday Times, and fashion features editor at British Vogue. In 2015, she became editor-in-chief of the Evening Standard’s ES Magazine, where she oversaw its redesign. Notably, during her tenure, she spearheaded a series of impactful covers created by artists to honor London’s resilience following the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. Laura steps into her role at a challenging time for the British fashion industry, which is navigating the aftermath of Brexit, the pandemic, and the recent collapse of Matches. [Vogue Business]
Spain’s Sociedad Textil Lonia Acquires Christian Lacroix
Spain’s Sociedad Textil Lonia (STL) is set to acquire the French fashion house Christian Lacroix for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 1987 by its namesake designer, Christian Lacroix was previously owned by LVMH and later by the Falic family. STL, which owns CH Carolina Herrera and Purificación García, along with 600 stores worldwide, described the deal as a “private transaction.” The company said, “By acquiring Maison Christian Lacroix, with its treasure of archives and the rich history of French haute couture, STL expands its brand portfolio, strengthening its international presence.” Lacroix has given the sale his blessing. [Reuters]
Pitti Uomo and Milan Men’s Fashion Week Calendars Are Out
Men’s fashion week is just around the corner, and the schedules for Pitti Uomo and Milan Fashion Week have been released. Pitti Uomo runs from January 13th to 16th in Florence and features two standout guest designers. MM6 Maison Margiela will present their collection on January 15th in the Tepidarium Giacomo Roster. On January 16th, emerging brand Setchu will take the spotlight. Milan Men’s Fashion Week follows from January 17th to 21st, with 16 runway shows and 45 presentations. The lineup includes brands like Giorgio Armani and Zegna, as well as presentations from Ralph Lauren and Brunello Cucinelli. But this season also comes with a few notable absences — Gucci has moved to a co-ed format during women’s fashion week, Fendi has stepped back due to leadership changes, and neither J.W. Anderson nor Martine Rose are showing this time. You can check out the full schedule here. [Vogue Business]
Gabbriette Is On Her Best Model Behavior
Gabbriette has heard everything you have to say and is laughing to the bank, just ask Charli xcx who can confirm: she’s the industry’s favorite reference. Fashion’s reigning CoolGirl™️ is serving model domination and having fun while doing it. From MAC to Marc Jacobs campaigns, whether she’s bottle blonde or back to her raven roots, Gabbriette is the queen of reinvention (and yes, her recipes are that advanced). Fresh off a major year of collaborations, the 2024 Readers’ Choice winner for Breakout Star ushers Models.com into 2025 as she turns a Paris link-up with director Columbine Goldsmith into a full-on studio session filled with advice, pose instructions, and some epic one-liners. Find the interview here.
MDC Selects: These Rookies Are Extreme Adventure Seekers
Let’s welcome the first group of 2025’s MDC Selects —featuring someone from Belgium’s Next Top Model, a bungee jumper, and a tartar enthusiast. Click the link here to read more.
The Latest Ad Campaigns and Covers on Our Radar
With men’s fashion week approaching, the latest campaigns for Spring 2025 are already making waves. In their latest ads, Louis Vuitton says the world is yours, Bottega rings in the Lunar New Year, and Fendi brings you smiling top faces by Meisel. Meanwhile in cover land, Hollywood is stepping into the award season limelight and the fashion industry is acting accordingly by shelling out covers throughout major global markets. Take a peek below to see who worked with who, all the recent rollouts and compelling product placement. Find our picks here.
