4 days ago
Armani, Gucci Face Labor Scandals & Zendaya x On Unveil New Sneaker in This Week's Top Fashion News
An Italian regulator has hit theArmaniGroup with a $4 million USD fine for making misleading ethical and social responsibility claims. This fine comes after a year-long court administration for unethical practices, where it was found that the company outsourced leather goods production to third parties that violated health and safety regulations and employed illegal workers. Armani has denied the claims and intends to appeal the decision. This action is part of an ongoing regulatory effort in Italy to hold luxury brands accountable for labor and manufacturing practices.
UnionizedGucciemployees in Italy, represented by trade unions Filcams Cgil, Fisascat Cisl, and Uiltucs, have declared a 'state of unrest' and are threatening to strike. Approximately 1,000 retail and logistics workers are involved, and the dispute stems from their parent company,Kering, failing to pay welfare bonuses that were promised for the 2022-2024 period. The scandal comes at a critical time for Gucci, already experiencing a steep drop in sales, and it adds to a growing list of similar labor scandals affecting other major luxury brands in the industry.
Zendayaand Swiss brandOnhave collaborated on a new release and campaign called 'Be Every You,' which features a new footwear model, theCloudzone Moon. Though the partners have united for campaigns before, the new sneaker marks Zendaya's first time co-creating a silhouette with the brand. The release also includes a capsule of active apparel designed by Zendaya and celebrity stylistLaw Roach, rooted in their years-long creative journey as collaborators. The campaign film, directed by Bardia Zeinali, features Zendaya styled by Law Roach and explores the idea of embracing the various facets of identity. The Cloudzone Moon sneakers are currently available for purchase at On's webstore and physical stores worldwide.
Ralph LaurenCorp reported a 30% rise in net income for Q1 2025, which led the company to raise its fiscal year outlook. This positive performance, which beat analysts' expectations, was attributed to strong sales growth in North America (12%), Europe (10%), and Asia (18%). The company's shares increased by over 3% following the news, adding to the 90% growth seen in the last year. The numbers are attributed to Ralph Lauren's strategic price increases, employed to mitigate the impact of tariff uncertainties and lower consumer spending. Despite the strong results, the company maintains a tone of cautious optimism due to new duties and the potential for an inflationary environment.
Marc Jacobshas released the new '72 Spring Sneaker, a Y2k-inspired tech runner that marks a significant shift from the brand's typically dramatic footwear. The shoe, designed in collaboration with product development studio Areté, features a slim silhouette with a busy upper of mesh and technical overlays, available in eye-catching colorways, expressive materials, as well as classic black and white. Priced at $225 USD, the sneaker is available on the brand's webstore and at select retailers. The brand's new silhouette arrives as rumors spread thatLVMHis considering selling off the label.
The Icelandic performance wear brand,66°NORTH, celebrated its upcoming 100th anniversary atCopenhagen Fashion Week SS26with an immersive exhibition titled '100 Years of Progress. Still Made for Life.' The event showcased the brand's history, its new SS26 collection, and its dedication to durability through features like a wind machine and GORE-TEX® weather simulator. The exhibition also highlighted the brand's 100-year-old repair initiative with a live repair station and an atelier inspired by its factories. In a statement about the showcase, CEO Helgi Óskarsson emphasized the company's commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and creating long-lasting garments.
