Business of Fashion

Inbox hero: why fashion founder Substacks are the new influencers



Amy Smilovic

It’s only taken oh, circa 15 years, but fashion brand founders (and creative directors) have finally twigged that they are their own best brand ambassadors.

From their first baby steps on Instagram, when the likes of Linda V Wright, Nili Lotan and Tibi founder Amy Smilovic (above) showed their faces and styling prowess, pro tastemakers have gifted their customers a ‘real way’ insight into clever wardrobe building, versatile styling and non-hard-sell (yet paradoxically seductive) selling.

And now they go even better. Substack is proving the perfect platform for sharing not just fashion how-tos but other lifestyle recommendations – from travel to food to business know-how. (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…)



From LVMH to Inditex, cultural cachet is the key to fashion credibility



Peter Lindbergh Dior exhibition 2024

Fashion companies sponsoring major cultural events? Discuss…

It’s the summer of LVMH as the luxury conglomerate commandeers the Paris Olympics, not least the opening ceremony. Was it just me though who thought the OTT product placement was a bit much? Not to mention clenching at the sight of the dancers lugging monogrammed Louis Vuitton trunks down those slippery rain-lashed steps on the banks of the Seine. (Oh well, no doubt LVMH can afford the liability insurance.) (more…)



Quote of the day: Naomi Rea, Artnet News



Art Basel Shop tote

“Access to this world is aspirational and offering a piece of it at a more affordable price point expands the customer base significantly. Now, the casual visitors over the weekend…can say they bought something at Art Basel and can signal their membership in the art tribe.”
Naomi Rea, Artnet News acting editor-in-chief, Vogue Business (more…)