Latest news with #Cocokind
Daily Mail
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Hailey Bieber is accused of copying idea from small business AGAIN after latest Rhode product launch
Rhode, the billion-dollar beauty brand founded by Hailey Bieber, has landed in hot water again amid fresh accusations its team allegedly copied a product design from a small business. After the model, 28, was pictured wearing a custom lipgloss-carrying waist chain in a new Rhode campaign, social media users began accusing the company of taking inspiration from the skincare brand, Cocokind. The resemblance between the gold waist chains divided the internet as many were torn between whether Rhode ripped off Cocokind or if the resemblance was purely coincidental. 'Not surprised she's been copying concepts from other brands all along! Looks like it's just another day, another design lifted from someone else. Shamelessly stealing ideas,' one X user pointed out. Another quipped: 'There's nothing original about Hailey Bieber.' Others accused Bieber of being a 'copycat since day one.' 'Neither of them invented anything, that accessory has been around for decades, and Hailey never claimed to have created it,' one X user pointed out. has reached out to Bieber, Rhode and Cocokind, but has not heard back, at this time. Last month, Cocokind polled fans over the product to gauge interest from consumers to see if they would actually wear a body chain that hooks to their lip gloss and doubles as a belt chain. 'We don't know how many to make so we need your honest opinions! Here's how some of our Miami crew styled the chain this weekend!' they wrote on Instagram in a post, uploaded on June 9. Rhode first posted their body chain on July 5. It is unknown when they began working on their design. In general, product development timelines can vary from weeks to several years. After Rhode went public with their design, Cocokind founder and CEO, Priscilla Tsai, revealed they 'decided that were not gonna be making this body chain slash belt that hooks onto your lip balm' anymore. Tsai explained in an Instagram video that only 50 percent of consumers said they were interested in purchasing the body chain, which raised 'red flags' to her that it may be too niche. In the comments section, one customer wrote: 'I saw Rhode coming out with one. It's cute but I'd rather buy from Cocokind... no tea no shade to them.' A second commented: 'Rhode copied you.' Following the recent release of her brand's lipgloss-carrying gold waist chain, social media users alleged the model, 28, may have copied an idea in development at the brand, Cocokind A third wrote: 'Rhode has something similar for their new launch, however it's not for sale and simply used in the campaign pics. Maybe you can use yours for just pics.' Cocokind was launched in November 2014 by Tsai, who sought to create an accessible and clean skincare line. The company has 346,000 followers on Instagram and is sold at stores like Ulta Beauty, Target, Walmart and Whole Foods. Meanwhile, Rhode has 3.4 million Instagram followers and is primarily sold through its own website. This fall, it will hit Sephora. This is not the first time Rhode has been called out for copying the aesthetic of other brands, like Selena Gomez's Rare Beauty, Summer Fridays and Millie Bobby Brown's Florence by Mills. The resemblance between the waist chains divided the internet as many were torn between whether Rhode ripped off Cocokind or if the resemblance was purely coincidental In 2022, Rhode raised eyebrows for having similar packaging to Florence by Mills and has repeatedly been accused of taking inspiration from Gomez's Rare Beauty. Hailey has never not publicly denied or commented on the copying allegations. Bieber's brand was previously sued for trademark infringement by Rhode-NYC over its name Ultimately, Bieber's brand won the trademark dispute against the clothing company, which has been worn by stars like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Tracee Ellis Ross and Khloé Kardashian. Regardless, the mogul, who is married to pop star Justin Bieber, has achieved significant success as an entrepreneur and sold Rhode to E.l.f. Cosmetics in May. She still serves as the brand's the Chief Creative Officer and Head of Innovation and a strategic advisor for e.l.f. This is not the first time Rhode has been called out for copying the aesthetic of other brands, like Selena Gomez's Rare Beauty, Summer Fridays and Millie Bobby Brown's Florence by Mills In 2022, Rhode raised eyebrows for having similar packaging to Florence by Mills Four years before Hailey released her Strawberry Glaze Skin Smoothie at Erewhon, Summer Fridays had a similar collaboration with Alfred Coffee Bieber launched her much-anticipated brand in June 2022, releasing only three products at the time - Peptide Glazing Fluid, Barrier Restore Cream, and Peptide Lip Treatment. Since then, the brand has grown exponentially, expanding into different tinted lip products, blush and even viral phone cases that double as lip gloss carriers. After making the purchase, e.l.f. Chairman and CEO Tarang Amin told Business Wire: 'E.l.f. Beauty found a like-minded disruptor in rhode.' 'Rhode further diversifies our portfolio with a fast-growing brand that makes the best of prestige accessible,' he said in his statement. 'We are excited by Rhode's ability to break beauty barriers, fully aligning with e.l.f. Beauty's vision to create a different kind of company. Rhode is a beautiful brand that we believe is ready for rocketship growth.' Following the news, Hailey took to Instagram to break her silence on the monumental deal. Last month, Rhode raised eyebrows for seemingly taking inspiration from Gomez's Rare Beauty in the photo above 'When I launched @rhode in 2022, I always had big dreams for the company, and the most important thing to me is to keep bringing rhode to more spaces, places, and faces globally,' she wrote in the caption, which was accompanied by two pictures of her. 'So today I am so incredibly excited and proud to announce that we are partnering with e.l.f. Beauty as we step into this next chapter in the world of rhode. 'I found a like-minded disruptor with a vision to be a different kind of company that believes in big ideas and innovation in the same way that I do and will help us continue to grow the brand,' her message continued. 'I feel invigorated, excited and more ready than ever to step into an even bigger role as Chief Creative Officer, and Head of Innovation of rhode as well as strategic advisor to e.l.f. Beauty.' In the post, Hailey also thanked her dedicated team at rhode and acknowledged that she 'couldn't have done it' without their help. Of course, she also thanked consumers. 'As I've said, this is only the beginning,' Hailey signed off. Earlier this year, she told Vogue that Rhode, which is her middle name, was a COVID-era idea. 'I think from having worked with so many different makeup artists and trying different facialists, estheticians, all these different people... I realized that it doesn't take much for you to have a good routine, and it doesn't take much for skin care to be great,' she told the publication. In the interview, Rhode's president, Lauren Ratner, credited Hailey as the 'number-one reason for Rhode's success.' 'I think the consumer is really smart, and really understands authenticity,' Ratner said. While speaking about the success of Rhode, Hailey admitted she 'never, ever thought or expected it to turn into this.' 'In my wildest dreams, it's already gone beyond what I would've hoped for,' she gushed.
Emirates Woman
10-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Emirates Woman
7 international clean skincare brands that are available in the UAE
In the world of luxury beauty, clean skincare is no longer a trend, it's a lifestyle. For today's woman, a radiant complexion begins with conscious choices. Ethically sourced ingredients, sustainable packaging, and science-backed formulations that deliver real results are a must. Whether you're targeting hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or simply seeking a glow that speaks volumes, the right skincare can transform your routine into a ritual. Here, we've curated a selection of international niche clean skincare brands available in the UAE, each offering a unique blend of efficacy, sustainability, and luxury. Cocokind View this post on Instagram A post shared by cocokind (@cocokind) For those who believe clean beauty shouldn't come at a premium, Cocokind delivers high-performance skincare with certified organic and natural ingredients. The brand is cruelty-free, gluten-free, and designed to cater to all skin types, proving that efficacy and affordability can coexist. Forest Essentials View this post on Instagram A post shared by @forestessentials A pioneer in Luxurious Ayurveda, Forest Essentials seamlessly blends ancient Indian beauty rituals with contemporary elegance. Each product is crafted with time-honored ingredients like rose, saffron, and sandalwood, offering a sensorial experience that's as indulgent as it is effective. OSEA View this post on Instagram A post shared by OSEA (@oseamalibu) Founded 25 years ago, OSEA harnesses the power of sustainably harvested seaweed—a nutrient-rich marine superfood—to create vegan, toxin-free skincare. The brand is Climate Neutral Certified, uses renewable energy, and packages its products in recyclable glass. True Botanicals True Botanicals sets the bar high with its MADE SAFE certified, wildcrafted, and organic formulations. Their potent anti-aging oils and serums are beloved by beauty editors and skincare enthusiasts alike for their ability to rejuvenate skin without compromise. Origins With a commitment to plant-based ingredients and eco-conscious practices, Origins crafts vegetarian (and some vegan) formulas that deliver visible results. The brand champions sustainability through renewable energy, carbon reduction, and tree-planting initiatives. Aesop View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aesop (@aesop) A benchmark in ethical luxury, Aesop has long been revered for its minimalist yet highly effective skincare, body, and hair care. The brand is fully vegan, cruelty-free, and prioritizes recycled packaging, even offering refill stations at select locations. Natureofthings A modern wellness brand rooted in nature's wisdom, Natureofthings crafts products that harmonize body, mind, and environment. Their formulations feature botanicals and minerals used in traditional remedies, offering a deeply restorative experience. For the Emirates Woman who values luxury with integrity, these niche clean skincare brands prove that high-performance and sustainability go hand in hand. Whether you're indulging in Forest Essentials' Ayurvedic opulence or embracing OSEA's marine-powered elixirs, each brand offers a unique approach to radiant, conscious beauty. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Pinterest
Axios
09-05-2025
- Business
- Axios
China talks are coming, but the pain is already here
The U.S. and China have been trading jabs and flexing ahead of this weekend's trade talks. But with the fates of businesses, consumer products, and jobs hanging in the balance, the two global superpowers are locked in the world's most expensive game of chicken. Why it matters: The pain that has already reverberated from the sky-high tariff rates between the world's two largest economies won't fade quickly — even if they broker a deal this weekend. President Trump suggested cutting the U.S. tariff rate on China to 80% ahead of trade talks. It's a number that was unimaginable just a few months ago and is still untenable for scores of American businesses. Zoom out: Companies are considering layoffs and rethinking business plans. Apollo's Torsten Slok forecasts layoffs — in trucking, logistics and retail — if tariffs don't come down. MGA Entertainment, America's largest privately held toymaker, which owns brands like Bratz and Little Tikes, is pausing plans to expand an Ohio factory. CEO Isaac Larian told Retail Dive inputs for toys, like doll hair, often come from China and other countries and will be significantly more expensive. 'Frankly if these tariffs do not go away we have no choice but to do layoffs,' Larian said. Some smaller businesses, including a hay exporter in central Washington and a toy company in eastern Pennsylvania, have already cut jobs. Zoom in: Goods are stuck on either side of the ocean as trades screeches to a halt. Exports of U.S. soybeans and pork to China — their biggest buyer — are plunging. Inflatable snowmen, women's clothes, bubble blasters and more are sitting in a Chinese factories as their American buyers figures out if they can still afford to import them, The Wall Street Journal reports. Exports from more than 20 major U.S. ports have fallen in the last five weeks, Fortune reports. Official Chinese data released Friday showed exports to the U.S. fell 21% in April, CNBC noted. Prices are going up: Chinese e-commerce companies Temu and Shein have already hiked up prices. Other companies are warning that they'll only be able to rely on stockpiled inventory or absorb the cost of tariffs for so long. Cocokind, an American beauty brand, has an eye cream that's been going viral from rave TikTok reviews. The company said parts of the cream's packaging come from China, and tariffs have jacked up the costs of production to the point where Cocokind is losing money on sales. "Long term, we can't be selling this at its current price," founder Priscilla Tsai said in a video. Almost all strollers and car seats sold in the U.S. are made in China — and companies are raising prices.
Business of Fashion
22-04-2025
- Business
- Business of Fashion
How Brands Are Selling Higher Prices to Their Customers
When President Donald Trump made his tariff announcement on April 2, Petite Studio knew what the news meant: Soon, they'd have to raise prices. The New York-based womenswear label works closely with a factory in founder Jenny Wang's hometown of Jiangshan, China for production, and as such is highly exposed to US tariffs on China, which are now up to 145 percent. Because Wang has a close personal relationship with the factory, she and her co-founder (and husband) Matthew Howell have been in talks with them to reduce costs. The have also been negotiating concessions with their stateside landlord and suppliers. But still, price increases are inevitable: 'At 150 percent, there's no balance. If we don't [raise prices], then we're toast,' said Wang. Their shoppers, they know, won't be thrilled. So to soften the blow, the brand decided to focus on manufacturing clothing made from natural fibres — consistently a top request from customers. If its products were more premium, they figured, it would help justify the jump in price. ADVERTISEMENT 'If we need to increase prices, we want to show the customers that we're listening to them and we're giving something in return,' said Howell. Going upmarket is just one tactic that brands are considering as they grapple with how to respond to Trump's tariffs, the most sweeping in nearly a century. Other brands are adding a flat fee to purchases and telling customers exactly why they're suddenly paying more. Sexual wellness brand Dame has included a $5 fee in customers' carts called the 'Trump tariff surcharge,' accompanied by a visual of the US President's hair. 'Businesses should be putting a line item, calling it international trade tax,' said Charlotte Palermino, founder of the skincare brand Dieux, which is in talks with its contract manufacturer this week about which raw materials it sources for its products might be impacted. 'Call it what it is.' Transparency is another tactic, especially for brands that are waiting to see whether Trump goes ahead with higher tariffs on individual countries, currently subject to a 90-day pause. The hope is by showing customers they're doing everything they can – negotiating with factories, shipping extra inventory ahead of potential tariffs – customers will be more forgiving (or at least make a purchase before price increases kick in). 'Focus on what you can control, because so much is going to be out of your control, and lead with that,' said Lori Ruggiero, managing partner at public relations firm 5WPR. Open Communication Even if prices have not yet changed, it's best to keep customers in the loop with frequent updates, to make sure they know a brand is doing what they can to keep products accessibly priced, even amid the potential impact of coming tariffs. Skincare brand Cocokind, for instance, hosted an open 'Tariff 101' Zoom call last week in which Cocokind founder and CEO Priscilla Tsai and Carol Chan, the brand's senior vice president of finance and operations, broke down how tariffs could impact their pricing models and profit, making clear the significant impact they could have on their bottom line. The brand also invited representatives from their logistics and packaging providers to discuss import rules, alternative sourcing and more. Anyone, from customers to competitors, could join and hear the brand's insights on the current situation. The goal was to walk through different scenarios — and potential solutions — with their community, an attempt to deal with the situation collectively. This type of transparency has been many brands' strategy as they adjust to a new reality, largely seen in the form of communications on social media about what brands do — and don't — know about how tariffs will impact their businesses. For example, Colette Laxton and Mark Curry, the founders of UK-based skincare brand The Inkey List, posted a video on the brand's Instagram feed explaining that they would keep their customers up-to-date along the way as tariffs evolve, even if they don't have all the answers yet. ADVERTISEMENT It's easier, of course, for a smaller business to have this kind of informal and direct line of communication with its customer base. For larger companies, Ruggiero suggested approaching communications with controlled transparency, rather than 'full open kimono,' she said — explaining the decision-making process and making clear that increasing prices was a last resort. Regardless of the size of the company, if prices do need to change, the brand should highlight the value they bring to the table, and how increasing price is necessary to maintain quality. This is especially crucial for luxury brands. 'I wouldn't lead with, 'We're raising our prices.' I would lead with the integrity of our product,' said Jhara Valentini, founder of advertising agency Valentini Media Group. 'The conversation you create has to be around the emotive component.' A Hybrid Approach In the meantime, however, brands are hoping to drive more purchases before increases come. The end of the de minimis exemption — which will add duties to shipments below $800 — kicking in on May 2 is an initial hurdle. With that date in mind, leakproof underwear brand Knix kicked off its anniversary sale, which typically happens in May, last week. Rather than shaping ad messaging around the fact that the sale's date was moved, however, the brand is highlighting the fact that 'these will be the best prices of the year,' said Nicole Tapscott, Knix's chief commercial officer. The hope is that more sales upfront will allow the brand to cushion its profitability during a transition period. 'The last thing we wanted to do was to be sending millions of dollars of product across the border, and potentially having our customers get their product stuck as they start to roll out this very complex country of origin check,' said Tapscott. 'This was the best course of action forward to make sure we were able to fulfil those orders succinctly and also profitably for the business.' This summer, Knix will set up its own third-party warehouse in the US for local shipments, she said. Brands also need to consider how they're spending their marketing dollars in the medium term. Lower-funnel conversion-driving opportunities, like moving up sales or offering rewards, rather than major brand building campaigns, are increasingly becoming a priority. ADVERTISEMENT 'It has to get really ugly for people to want to pull money out of revenue driving dollars. During economically challenging times … ad dollars, especially for brands who have a heavy e-commerce presence, end up shifting towards bottom of funnel and trying to drive revenue,' said Scott Sutton, chief executive officer of influencer marketing platform Later. But this doesn't have to come at the expense of awareness, he said. For Later's clients, the goal is to 'take a hybrid approach, where we can leverage creators who both drive sales and awareness,' he said, with many focussing on performance-driven creator campaigns. For luxury brands with deeper pockets, continuing to engage customers who may be more cautious with their spending through upper-funnel touchpoints is crucial to staying on shoppers' minds once they're ready to spend again, according to Valentini. This can be through content on social media or engaging offline experiences, enabling the brand to keep connecting with the customer emotionally and sustaining a relationship in the long-term. 'When the pendulum swings back, make sure that ... [the consumer] is thinking, 'Okay, maybe I do want to buy something. Let me go to this brand, because they've been so consistent in their storytelling,'' said Valentini.
