Stork

04/14/2025

Fashion market news: April’7-13

As fashion navigates economic uncertainty, sustainability shifts, and tech disruption, this week brought major moves in retail, M&A, and innovation. Here’s a quick round-up of the most impactful developments:

📍Market trends

The National Retail Federation forecasts a 20% decline in fashion imports in H2 2025 due to renewed tariffs - potentially driving up costs across the industry.

Levi’s Reports $60M in Lost Sales.
Ongoing supply chain issues continue to hit brands hard. Levi’s cited disruptions as the cause of significant Q1 losses.

📍Tech Innovation

Vivrelle and Revolve introduced Complete The Look, letting users pair Vivrelle accessories with pieces from Revolve and FWRD.
They’re also preparing to launch Ella, an AI concierge offering tailored outfit suggestions via natural-language prompts like “Miami packing essentials.”

📍Business moves

Anta acquired German brand Jack Wolfskin for $290M, expanding its presence in Europe’s performance apparel market.

Japan’s ZOZO purchased UK-based Lyst for $154M, reinforcing its investment in AI-powered fashion search.

Mytheresa secured regulatory approval to acquire YNAP. Leadership changes are expected after the deal closes on April 23.

📍Retail developments

Louis Vuitton Refreshes Milan Flagship. The newly renovated store now features a café, restaurant, and dedicated LV Home space, blending retail with lifestyle.

Dolce & Gabbana’s NYC Flagship Opens.
Their new five-floor Madison Avenue space includes tailoring, beauty, and a private salon—merging luxury service with immersive design.

📍Sustainability & Culture

Prada & UNESCO Open Ocean Literacy Center.
The new Venice-based center aims to educate younger generations on ocean sustainability through Prada’s Sea Beyond program.

London’s V&A Museum opens an exhibition spotlighting Cartier’s evolution from 19th-century jeweler to modern icon.

Dior unveils a new immersive pavilion at the World Expo, celebrating heritage through a futuristic lens.

📍Fashion growth

The ethical fashion market is expanding:
• From $8.07B in 2024 to $8.58B in 2025
• Projected to hit $11.78B by 2030
• 6.5% CAGR, driven by demand for transparency and sustainability

🖇️ Follow Stork for weekly insights on fashion tech, retail innovation, and growth business strategy.



Sources: Globe Newswire, Luxury Daily, Business of Fashion, Fashion Network

04/12/2025

Why Gen Z and Millennials are changing the 'Way We buy Fashion'?

1. Embracing sustainability and ethical practices
Gen Z and Millennials are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their fashion choices. Approximately 62% of Gen Z prefers brands committed to sustainability, and 66% are willing to pay more for ethically produced goods. They expect transparency and accountability - 90% believe companies should be open about their environmental and social practices.
This is reflected in their shopping habits: the resale market is booming, with 42% of Gen Z actively buying secondhand or thrifted fashion. Eco-conscious materials, slow fashion, and transparent supply chains have become non-negotiable.

2. Digital-First shopping habits
As digital natives, Gen Z and Millennials are driving the shift toward online shopping. While 57% of Gen Z prefers to shop online, 44% still value physical stores for inspiration. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram play a major role in product discovery and influence.
Convenience is crucial - fast shipping, easy returns, and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services are expected. In fact, over 55% of Gen Z use BNPL services regularly, highlighting a strong preference for flexible purchasing.

3. Desire for personalization
These generations want more than just products - they seek experiences. From personalized offerings and limited-edition drops to in-store AR try-ons and gamified shopping, brands are reimagining engagement to cater to a generation that values individuality.

4. Influence of social media and online communities
Social media is the new fashion runway. Peer reviews and influencer content are far more trusted than traditional advertising. Online communities shape trends, inspire creativity, and drive purchase decisions. Gen Z, in particular, plays an active role in shaping fashion culture through content creation and viral moments.

5. Shift toward comfort, functionality & inclusivity
Comfort and versatility are central to Gen Z and Millennial fashion choices—athleisure, relaxed fits, and adaptive fashion are in high demand. Additionally, demand for gender-neutral clothing has increased by 50% among Gen Z, showing their commitment to inclusivity and the rejection of outdated style norms.

Understanding these shifts is essential for brands that want to stay relevant. By aligning with Gen Z and Millennial values—prioritizing sustainability, personalization, convenience, and inclusivity—fashion businesses can build meaningful connections and drive long-term loyalty in a rapidly evolving market.

📌 Sources: Analyzify, Wild Unlimited, Exploding Topics, Social Champ

04/09/2025

We recently came across a great article highlighting just how powerful live shopping can be in boosting sales—and the numbers speak for themselves.

https://www.luxurydaily.com/european-buyers-shopping-more-often-on-live-platforms-report/

At Stork, staying ahead of market trends is part of our DNA. If you're curious about how live shopping is transforming the e-commerce landscape, check out our earlier post: “Live Shopping: The Future of Interactive E-Commerce?” 🔽

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/storkapp_live-shopping-the-future-of-interactive-activity-7310694996251217923-GU-h?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAABt1JYIB7uhvnNU1MGWeOUKPVXksjvnbzPA

It's a must-read for any seller looking to tap into the next wave of online retail.

Live Shopping: The future of interactive e-commerce? Live shopping is transforming the way people shop online, blending livestreaming, entertainment, and commerce into one seamless experience. This innovative approach enables brands to engage with customers in real time, making the shopping process....

04/07/2025

Fashion market news: March 31 - April 6

📍Global shifts and trends
• New sweeping tariff policies have drawn concern across the fashion industry, with experts warning of rising prices and declining consumer confidence. Both luxury and mainstream brands may face significant challenges as they adapt to increased import costs and potential slowdowns in demand.
• Fashion stakeholders marked the International Day of Zero Waste with a renewed push for circularity. Events throughout the week emphasized strategies to reduce textile waste and adopt more sustainable production models.

📍Business & Investments
• Fairly Made raised €15M to scale its traceability platform, used by LVMH and Balmain.
• Kering acquired Italian eyewear maker Visard and took a stake in sunglasses firm Mistral.
• Prada may finalize a €1B deal for Versace this week, below previous valuation expectations.
• Bread Beauty Supply was acquired by Cost of Doing Business, led by Topicals' founder.
• Shoptalk Luxe announced its advisory board ahead of its UAE launch, signaling growth in luxury trade.

📍Brand moves & partnerships
• Prada opened its first standalone restaurant in Asia, expanding into lifestyle experiences.
• Burberry partnered with the V&A Museum to enhance access to fashion education.
• Gucci launched the Art of Silk campaign with Julia Garner and nine global creatives.
• Fendi reimagined its iconic Baguette with playful, modern updates.
• Maserati returned as sponsor of the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, merging sport and style.

📍Legal updates
• Staff International (OTB Group) sued Dsquared2 over an early termination of a licensing agreement.
• Yoox Net-a-Porter CEO Alison Loehnis will step down in June ahead of its integration with Mytheresa’s LuxExperience group.
• Daniel Lalonde was named CEO of Fiskars Group’s Vita Division, overseeing brands like Georg Jensen and Wedgwood.


📍Awards
• Duran Lantink won the 2025 Woolmark Prize, receiving AU$300,000 for his upcycled work.
• LVMH announced finalists for its 2025 Young Designer Prize, with winners to be revealed Sept. 3.
• CEOWORLD Magazine ranked the top fashion schools for 2025:
Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
Parsons School of Design
London College of Fashion



📌Sources: Luxury Daily, Business of Fashion, Fashion Dive, CEOWORLD Magazine, Fashion Network

04/04/2025

Social commerce in 2025: How Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are driving sales ❓
Swipe through the carousel to read more ➡️

04/02/2025

As sustainability shapes buying choices, luxury brands are rethinking their operations. With Millennials and Gen Z soon dominating the market, the pressure to reflect their environmental values is driving a shift from tradition to more responsible, future-focused practices.

How luxury brands are embarrassing sustainability❓

📍Eco-Friendly materials
More luxury houses are turning to environmentally conscious fabrics and alternatives.
Prada, for example, uses Econyl, a regenerated nylon sourced from discarded fishing nets.
Chanel has incorporated biodegradable packaging made from wood-based materials developed by Sulapac.

📍Lowering carbon emissions
Brands are setting ambitious targets to cut their environmental impact.
Gucci aims to slash its carbon footprint by 40% and is promoting upcycling with its Gucci Continuum project.
Louis Vuitton plans to reduce direct emissions by 55% by 2030 and is embedding circular design across its collections.

📍Advancing circular economy models
From resale to recycling, luxury is getting creative.
Kering, which owns several top fashion houses, opened a circular hub in Italy to repurpose luxury items at scale.
Through initiatives like the Fashion Pact, multiple brands are collaborating to find large-scale, innovative solutions.

📍Transparency & Ethical sourcing
Open communication and traceable supply chains are becoming key pillars.
Stella McCartney has long been a leader in transparency, sharing environmental data and advocating for repair over replacement.
Chanel uses tools like Oritain to verify the origin of its materials, ensuring ethical sourcing from start to finish.

📍Commitment to renewable energy
Clean energy is quickly becoming the new luxury standard.
Chanel has already transitioned 97% of its operations to renewable energy and aims for 100% by 2025.

📍Balancing heritage with responsibility
The challenge lies in preserving the timelessness and exclusivity luxury is known for, while also making room for innovation and sustainability. But within this challenge lies opportunity: better resource management, stronger brand alignment with customer values, and a chance to lead the industry forward.

📍Standout leaders in sustainable luxury
Stella McCartney: A long-time advocate for sustainable fashion and transparency.
Gucci: Pioneering circular fashion and animal-free collections.
Louis Vuitton: Incorporating bio-based and recycled materials into its designs.
Prada: Innovating with signature recycled nylon through its Re-Nylon program.

🖇️Sustainability is no longer optional in luxury—it’s becoming part of the brand DNA. By embedding eco-conscious values into design, production, and customer engagement, luxury labels aren’t just adapting—they’re redefining what it means to be truly premium in today’s world.

Resources used: retail-insider.com, london.edu, sustainabilitymag.com, blockapps.net

03/31/2025

📍Fashion market news: March'24–30

Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Dolce & Gabbana will anchor a new luxury retail development at South Africa’s V&A Waterfront, marking a strategic expansion into the African luxury market.

LYS Beauty secures an eight-figure Series A investment led by Encore Consumer Capital, signaling high expectations for the Black-owned clean beauty brand.

Neiman Marcus and Estée Lauder launch a nationwide event series, highlighting cross-brand collaborations in luxury retail.

While global luxury growth slows to 1–3% annually through 2027, India is projected to lead with 15–20% growth in 2025.

Estée Lauder expands its generative AI push by integrating Adobe Firefly Services into its creative workflows for faster, more efficient campaign development.

Hourglass Cosmetics opens its global flagship store in New York City, reinforcing its luxury beauty presence.

Dsquared2 ends its licensing deal early with Staff International, prompting legal action by OTB in Italian courts.

Kering finalizes the sale of a majority stake in its Parisian real estate assets to Ardian, streamlining its property portfolio.

Jean-Christophe Babin, CEO of Bulgari, is appointed CEO of LVMH’s watch division, as the group ramps up competition with Richemont and Swatch.

Bulgari reopens its renovated Via Montenapoleone flagship in Milan, enhancing its luxury footprint.

Rimowa launches a throwback campaign reviving an archival design, leaning into heritage appeal.

Douglas Palladini is named CEO of Carter's, tasked with steering the brand through a challenging retail climate.

Altofare Group, key supplier to luxury brands, is consulting tax and legal advisors amid growing financial pressures.

Old Navy embraces innovation with Radar, using RFID and AI for smarter inventory control.

Balenciaga unveils its summer campaign inspired by classic Hollywood aesthetics.

Alexandre Arnault, son of LVMH founder Bernard Arnault, is set to join the board of a ready-to-wear outerwear brand following a recent deal.

Hermès proposes major board changes, including BNP Paribas CEO Jean-Laurent Bonnafé, former DGSE chief Bernard Emié, and Bel Group CEO Cécile Béliot-Zind. A vote is set for April 30 in Paris.

Skims, Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand, acquires Skkn by Kim with plans to launch its own beauty line in 2026.

Hudson’s Bay seeks court approval to liquidate inventory in a bid to avoid full closure after filing for bankruptcy.

📌 Sources: Luxury Daily, Business of Fashion, Fashion United, US Fashion Network, Fashion Dive

03/28/2025

Subscription Models & Membership Clubs: The next Big Trend in fashion retail?

Fashion retail is undergoing a major shift, and subscription models and membership clubs are leading the transformation. With consumers prioritizing convenience, personalization, and sustainability, brands are moving beyond one-time purchases to offer exclusive, curated experiences that build long-term relationships.

The rise of fashion membership clubs 📈

Luxury and streetwear brands are leveraging members-only shopping experiences to offer exclusive perks. HEAT’s shopping app, for example, provides a curated experience for fashion enthusiasts, giving them access to limited drops, VIP styling, and private sales. This mirrors a broader trend in which fashion houses create tiered memberships, rewarding customer loyalty with early access to new collections and special privileges.

Subscription-Based shopping: The future of fashion retail❓

Fashion subscription services are booming, with brands using AI-driven curation to offer personalized selections at different price points. According to HulkApps, this model benefits both businesses and consumers by reducing inventory waste, increasing brand loyalty, and enhancing shopping convenience. My Subscription Addiction highlights some of the top clothing subscription services, such as:
✔ Stitch Fix: Personalized styling services with hand-picked items.
✔ Nuuly: A rental service for those who want to refresh their wardrobe without committing to purchases.
✔ Rent the Runway: High-end fashion rentals, perfect for special occasions.

Sustainability & the Resale revolution 📍
Subscription models aren’t just about convenience—they’re also helping reduce overconsumption. Platforms like Highsnobiety report that luxury “timeshare” services, where customers temporarily own high-end goods like Hermès Birkins, are gaining traction. By adopting these circular economy principles, brands can promote shared ownership and eco-conscious shopping.

Why this model works 🔽

✔ Stronger customer loyalty– Recurring memberships keep consumers engaged long-term.
✔ Personalized shopping– AI-driven selections match individual preferences.
✔ Sustainability-Driven – Rental and resale options reduce fashion waste.
✔ Exclusivity & Access – Special member-only benefits increase desirability.

As the demand for exclusive, sustainable, and convenient shopping experiences grows, subscription models and membership clubs are reshaping the future of fashion retail. Could this be the next major shift in how we shop?

03/26/2025

Live Shopping: The future of interactive e-commerce?

Live shopping is transforming the way people shop online, blending livestreaming, entertainment, and commerce into one seamless experience. This innovative approach enables brands to engage with customers in real time, making the shopping process more interactive, social, and immersive.

With Gen Z and Millennials craving more engaging digital experiences, live shopping is quickly becoming a preferred way to discover and purchase products. In fact, in 2022, monobrand stores led luxury sales channels with €120.02 billion, followed by online sales at €74.13 billion—an indication that digital commerce is becoming an increasingly dominant force.

🎥 What is 'Live shopping'?
Live shopping, also known as live commerce, allows brands to showcase and sell products through real-time video broadcasts. Unlike traditional e-commerce, which relies on static images and descriptions, live shopping brings products to life, allowing customers to see how they look, function, and perform in real time. Brands often collaborate with influencers and hosts who engage with audiences, answer questions, and provide exclusive deals, turning the shopping experience into an interactive event rather than a passive transaction.

📍How it works?
Live shopping is designed to bridge the gap between traditional retail and digital commerce by recreating the in-store experience online. During a live stream, brands or influencers demonstrate products, highlight key features, and interact with viewers. Customers can ask questions, get instant responses, and even see how products work in real-life scenarios.

Why live shopping is transforming e-commerce? 🔽
Higher engagement – Interactive content keeps viewers engaged longer than traditional online shopping.

Personalized experience – Brands can connect with audiences directly, offering real-time responses and recommendations.

Data-driven strategy – Companies can track live interactions and sales, refining their marketing approach.

Faster conversions – Seeing products in action shortens the buying journey, leading to instant purchases.

Community building – Live shopping fosters a sense of belonging, encouraging repeat customers.

According to Euromonitor, live streaming is expected to account for 20% of all global e-commerce sales by 2026. Major luxury brands like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton are already leveraging this trend, integrating live shopping directly into their brand.

As brands continue to innovate and consumers seek more immersive shopping experiences, this trend is set to shape the future of online retail.

What do you think about it? Share your thoughts in the comments 📩

*sources: Forbes, LegitCheck, Firework.

03/24/2025

Fashion market news: March’17-23

* YSL Beauty expands its rewilding project under the Change the Rules, Change the Future initiative.
* Louis Vuitton partners with Finnish master watchmaker Kari Voutilainen to launch the LVKV-02 GMR 6 timepiece series.
* Kering recognizes sustainable innovations in Tokyo, with awards made from recycled ceramics by Yi Design.
* Cartier dominates the secondary luxury watch market, with a 23.8% market share increase in 2024 (Chrono24).
* Hennessy & Loewe unveil the Paradis Carafe decanter, inspired by nature.
* Celine releases a luxury pilates collection, featuring a €2,400 calfskin-wrapped kettlebell, €1,900 monogrammed dumbbells, and an €850 cork yoga mat.
* Dolce & Gabbana shifts to in-house beauty production, aiming for €1 billion in annual sales by 2027.
* Donatella Versace to chair the jury of the International Woolmark Prize 2025.
* Bloomingdale’s to close its San Francisco store after 20 years, citing a tourism slowdown.
* Ami Paris launches Grand Prix Ami Paris to support emerging film directors.
* Asia-Pacific remains the top revenue region for fast fashion. India’s market is set for major growth by 2034, while luxury brands diversify due to economic shifts in China.
* The fast fashion market is projected to nearly triple by 2033, with a 10.9% CAGR driven by rising incomes, e-commerce, and Gen Z demand.
* Gucci appoints Demna (formerly at Balenciaga) as its creative director, leading to a 10% drop in Kering’s shares due to investor concerns.
* Donatella Versace steps down as Chief Creative Officer, transitioning to Chief Brand Ambassador. Dario Vitale (Miu Miu) will take over as her successor.
* Chanel & Dior Leadership Shifts: Matthieu Blazy is named Chanel’s new creative director, while Dior is expected to appoint Jonathan Anderson after Kim Jones' departure.
* Gucci Bamboo Exhibition will take place in Shanghai from March 28 – April 6, 2025, showcasing the history of its Bamboo 1947 design.

📌 Sources: Luxury Daily, US.FashionNetwork, FashionUnited, RetailBoss

03/21/2025

The luxury resale market is experiencing unprecedented growth, fueled by sustainability concerns, affordability, and digital innovation. As consumer preferences shift toward eco-conscious shopping and unique vintage finds, the second-hand luxury market is redefining the industry.

Market Growth & Projections:
The global resale market is expected to grow from $34.79B in 2024 to $60.55B by 2029, at a 10.1% CAGR.
Europe will see a 6.88% CAGR from 2025-2033, driven by demand for unique, pre-owned pieces.
The U.S. market is rapidly expanding, with a growing number of consumers turning to resale platforms.

Key growth drivers:
✔ Sustainability & Conscious Shopping
Consumers, especially millennials and Gen Z, prefer pre-owned luxury to reduce fashion waste and promote a circular economy.
✔ Affordability & Accessibility
Luxury resale makes high-end fashion more affordable, attracting aspirational shoppers.
✔ E-Commerce Expansion
Online platforms like The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective, and Fashionphile have made second-hand luxury shopping seamless and trustworthy.
✔ Technology & Authentication
AI-driven verification, blockchain tracking, and digital pricing models are enhancing buyer confidence.

Challenges & Industry shifts:
Counterfeit risks remain a concern, driving demand for AI-powered authentication solutions.
Luxury brands are embracing resale, launching buy-back programs and partnerships with platforms to capture this growing market.
The resale industry is attracting a broader demographic, including high-net-worth consumers looking for sustainable luxury alternatives.

The Future of Luxury Resale:
As second-hand luxury continues to break records, it’s clear that sustainability, affordability, and tech-driven authentication are shaping the future of fashion. With both consumers and brands embracing resale, this booming market is set to reshape luxury retail for years to come.

📌 Sources: researchandmarkets.com, finance.yahoo.com, globenewswire.com, businesswire.com, luxonomy.net.

03/19/2025

📍From Runway to Retail: How fashion weeks Impact consumer trends.
Scroll through the slides ▶️