brands

Polly Mellen remembered



Polly Mellen

Thoughts and prayers to all the fashion journalists this week. I’m not sure what’s up with the planets but it’s been a whirlwind of arrivals, departures and confirmations.

The happy news is that Chanel has confirmed Matthieu Blazy as its next artistic director (following his successful three years at Bottega Veneta) and Bottega has confirmed Louise Trotter as Blazy’s replacement. Yes, I’m delighted!

The sad news is that John Galliano (AKA Johnny G – cute!) is departing Maison Margiela after ten years. Not sure where he goes next.

But very sad is the news that the incredible stylist and one of my fashion idols Polly Allen Mellen has died at the age of 100. (more…)



On my radar: Alexis Bittar



Where is the Alexis Bittar jewelled notebook line? Give me pens! Give me agendas! Fuck it, bring back Rolodexes! I know I’m not the only person living for the – frankly genius – Alexis Bittar Instagram miniseries*. The bite-sized antics of fictional ’upper east side terror and icon’ Margeaux Goldrich, hilariously observed vignettes that show the fashionista terrorising her revolving door of personal assistants, is a masterclass in Instagram marketing.

Each episode (can you call a minute-long clip an episode?) is brilliantly written and shot, then costumed – with accompanying ASMR audio – with statement Alexis Bittar necklaces, bangles, earrings and handbags. (more…)



Hermès takes Manhattan



Hermes AW24 New York Theo Werner

My SS24 trend report picked up on the major appetite for leather, and of course Hermès comes top of the leather lust list.

Hermès just showed the second ‘chapter’ of its AW24 collection in New York – a seductive, cinematic portrayal of wearable-yet-sexy (for straight-laced Hermès) leather trousers, jumpsuits, outerwear and abundant Mapplethorpe-esque caps that some thought dominated the show, but I rather loved. (Once a stylist always a stylist.)

Dior paid a similar tribute to Manhattan recently (more…)



Positive fashion: Curated reseller Marrkt just launched womenswear



Marrkt womenswear

Not sure if this is good or bad news. If you’re a selective shopper like me, then good news, I hope! Marrkt (I pronounce it ‘market’, Mr DRG insists on ‘marked’), the curated reseller platform that – until now – specialises in heritage-y menswear brands, has now added womenswear.

Its email blurb promises the likes of pre-loved APC, Comme des Garçons, Margaret Howell and Trickers, or as they put it, “classic, quirky, design- and quality-driven – less about the logo, more about the product.” (more…)