The Loop Issue Eighteen
WHO:
How Bach–the newest TikTik It-Boy–represents a change in traditional masculinity
TikTok’s newest it-boy isn’t your typical TikTok star–rising to fame through makeup and lifestyle videos. Bach Buquen, the 19-year-old from Paris, has adopted a casual approach to using cosmetics, helping normalize makeup for men while steering attention towards major beauty brands. Buquen portrays himself in a traditionally masculine manner and advocates for makeup as a confidence booster, helping shift rigid attitudes. He reflects a cultural shift as men’s makeup sales are expected to more than double by 2033, representing a genderless and inclusive approach to beauty.
Meet the new face of Chanel Nº5: Margot Robbie
Margot Robbie is the new face of Chanel No. 5, a new milestone in her whirlwind of a career. On the heels of her recent success alongside that of her company, LuckyChap, Robbie starred in a new short film for Chanel’s iconic fragrance. The film was directed by Luca Guadagino and features Robbie in a red Chanel outfit, embodying an empowered and passionate woman represented in Chanel No. 5.
After becoming known as a real-life Barbie and announcing her pregnancy, Margot Robbie has just become the new face of the iconic perfume: Chanel Nº5. In the shoot with actor Jacob Elordi, she is pictured in a gold and red tweed set, symbolizing the power of femininity. Robbie’s effortless allure makes her the perfect ambassador for the classic and luxurious brand of Chanel.
How Nike’s New CEO, Elliott Hill, plans to pick the brand back up
After former CEO John Donahue stepped down from Nike amidst an unprecedented period of decline, Elliott Hill is taking the reins. From uninspired marketing, lack of creativity, and confusing company restructuring, Hill plans to build the brand back up from square one. He will be focusing on innovation on all fronts, developing new performance technology, and keeping retailers satisfied. Stay tuned for the next Stitch article for more on Nike’s comeback plans.
WHAT:
Wait… Luxury is in decline?
A decline in Chinese demand for luxury fashion poses significant threats to luxury giants like LVMH, Kering, Hermés, and Gucci. LVMH recently reported an overall 5% drop in fashion sales, causing the company’s shares to decline a whopping 6%, with sales in Asia (excluding Japan) falling 16%. Gucci sales are also expected to drop a staggering 24%, despite strong uptake for new collections. This change marks a shift in the broader consumer landscape, where luxury buyers continue to expand their interests and shift their purchases toward modern brands with lower price points.
Victoria’s Secret’s comeback post 6-year hiatus
The infamous Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show took a 6-year hiatus due to criticism for lack of diversity across all fronts, in addition to controversy surrounding the brand’s dark history surrounding sexual violence A company-wide initiative in 2021– The Victoria’s Secret Collective– helped rebrand Victoria’s Secret to emphasize diversity and inclusivity. The show debuted on October 15th at the Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York City, featuring iconic supermodels such as Gigi Hadid and Adriana Lima, alongside the next generation of models like Alex Consani. With the first openly transgender woman to walk for Victoria’s Secret, the runway showcased the brand’s newfound commitment to inclusivity.
The first woman to walk on the moon will wear Prada
Expected to launch as early as September 2026, the first woman to walk on the moon will be dressed in Prada. NASA and Axiom Space are working with creatives at Prada to design the suit, aiming to inspire future space exploration. Although the Prada logo will not be emphasized, their signature design elements are to be featured.
Fall 2024’s biggest outerwear trend: The Barn Jacket
The barn jacket, a classic ‘90s staple, is reclaiming its popularity over twenty years later, landing on the Lyst Index’s hottest products list. With TikTok trends like “Coastal Grandmother” and “Electric Grandpa”, the staple jacket has been re-introduced to modern fashion via pop culture. Known for its durability, warmth, and versatility, the jacket ties into a broader spectrum of “quiet luxury” which combines elements of preppy, vintage, and workwear-inspired styles to seamlessly emulate elegance and taste.
WHEN:
Everything we know about the 2025 Met Gala
The 2025 co-chairs of the Met Gala, accompanying Anna Wintour, will be Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams, with LeBron James as an honorary chair. This year's theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” is inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book, Slaves to Fashion, which will explore Black men’s fashion and dandyism through history. The exhibit will open to the public on May 6th, with eccentric clothing, fabrics, art and photography showcasing Black style and its influence on global fashion trends.
Save the dates to vote in the 2024 presidential election
Early voting is happening now until November 3rd, with the official presidential election taking place on November 5th. U of M has two voting locations, the UMMA and the DUDE (north campus). They are open 11-7 pm every day, including weekends. Your vote counts!
WHERE (hint…its Ann Arbor):
Next on the Info Session Series: Saks
The MFMS’s next segment of its info session series is fast approaching. Join us on November 6th to hear Saks representatives share invaluable industry insights.
Merging the GAP between luxury and affordability
Check out Sabrina Kizer’s article on the new collaboration between the Gap and Cult Gaia to learn more about Gap’s resurgence efforts to reclaim global influence and popularity amongst shifting consumer markets.
It's starting to get chilly!
The leaves are changing and temperatures are dropping, signaling the onset of fall fashion. It's time to pull out that burgundy button-up cardigan, vintage painter's jacket, knit sweater set, and dark wash denim to layer the perfect fall outfit and stay warm all season.
WHY:
To inspire and educate the next generation of fashion industry leaders by connecting them to creative and professional opportunities across the retail world. The Michigan Fashion Media Summit is the premier platform for college students and industry professionals to collaborate and shape the future fabric of fashion.
