New issue now out! WeAr Global Magazine 84
WeAr Global Magazine Issue 84: Best Fashion Retailer Award and Fashion x Sports Issue
Discover the winners of the WeAr Best Fashion Retailer of the World Award in this edition of WeAr magazine. Aside from the latest trends and brands, discover the intersection between fashion and sports and synergies between both industries which have the potential for business growth. The new issue of WeAr Global Magazine features innovative brands in the Lookbook and outstanding store design concepts in the Storebook — showcasing both mono-brand and multi-label retailers.
Virgil Abloh: The Codes exhibition in Paris
The Virgil Abloh Archive, in partnership with Nike, presents Virgil Abloh: The Codes, on until October 9, 2025 at the Grand Palais in Paris. The exhibition is the first major European exhibition exclusively devoted to the work of Virgil Abloh and traces nearly twenty years of creation through 20,000 archival pieces: prototypes, sketches, objects, images and creations from his personal collections.
Curated by Chloe Sultan and Mahfuz Sultan, this retrospective is an expanded edition of Virgil Abloh: The Codes presented in 2022. It reveals how “codes”, Abloh’s characteristic design principles, are reflected in his work on fashion, footwear, architecture, music, advertising and more, unifying a practice that spans multiple disciplines.
The exhibition also highlights Abloh’s collaborations with several artists, designers and athletes, underscoring the ethics of community and creative dialogue at the heart of his work. Workshops, performances and screenings will extend the experience, offering deeper insights into the exhibition’s themes and bringing together the voices of Abloh’s creative community.
Silvia Venturini Fendi takes on role of Honorary President of Fendi
FENDI has announced that, from October 1st, Silvia Venturini Fendi has taken on the role of Honorary President of the Roman House, following her creative tenure, which included her direction of the women’s collections during the brand’s centennial year.
In her new capacity, she will focus on supporting FENDI’s heritage, while continuing to champion the brand worldwide and promoting the Maison’s rich history, exceptional craftsmanship, and the world of Fendi Casa.
Silvia Venturini Fendi represents the third generation of the Fendi family, founder of the historical Roman Maison. From 1992 until 2019, she seconded the late Karl Lagerfeld in the Artistic Direction. Since 1994 she was responsible of the Accessories and Menswear lines and lately the Women’s collection.
“These have been truly exciting years, a journey I have walked also in the name of my grandmother Adele, my mother Anna, and her sisters. My heart turns to Karl, an extraordinary master who granted me the honor of working by his side, teaching me the art of sharing, a defining quality in my family’s history of women, while guiding me to nurture and protect my own creative vision so that I could then fly on my own. What a wonderful journey it has been, not only creatively but also from a human perspective: first through my bond with Karl Lagerfeld, then with Kim Jones and last but not least with my fantastic team, which over the years has become part of my family,” says Silvia Venturini Fendi.
2025 LVMH Prize for young fashion designers, 12th edition – the winners
The winners were selected by a Jury consisting of nine creative directors from LVMH houses – Jonathan Anderson, Sarah Burton, Nicolas Ghesquière, Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney, Nigo, Phoebe Philo, Silvia Venturini Fendi and Pharrell Williams – as well as Delphine Arnault, Jean-Paul Claverie and Sidney Toledano. Deepika Padukone, the internationally renowned Bollywood actress, also joined the 2025 Jury as a special guest.
Delphine Arnault stated:
“Once again, it has been an honour to welcome the members of this prestigious jury to the
Fondation Louis Vuitton. I would like to thank them warmly for their commitment to this edition and their precious support of young designers.
This year, the LVMH Prize was awarded to Soshiotsuki for his distinctive collections, which stand out for their impeccable tailoring and refined materials. The Karl Lagerfeld Prize was awarded to Steve O Smith for his beautifully executed one-of-a-kind pieces that translate his sketches into couture.
The Savoir-Faire Prize went to Torishéju for designs with bold cuts and volumes that are rooted in her own multicultural background.
I would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to all the finalists. I applaud their unique talent and remarkable creativity. And I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to three very inspiring actresses – Deepika Padukone, Anna Sawai and Camille Cottin – for being with us today.”
LVMH PRIZE
The Jury awarded the LVMH Prize to the Japanese designer Soshi Otsuki, 35, founder of the menswear brand Soshiotsuki. He will receive a 400,000€ endowment and will be mentored for one year by a team of LVMH experts.
Deepika Padukone, dressed in Louis Vuitton, presented the LVMH Prize to Soshi Otsuki.
THE KARL LAGERFELD PRIZE
The Karl Lagerfeld Prize was awarded to the British designer Steve O Smith, 33, founder of the namesake womenswear and menswear brand. It includes a 200,000€ endowment and a year’s mentorship by the LVMH Group.
The actress Anna Sawai, dressed in Dior, revealed the name of the winner of this prize.
THE SAVOIR-FAIRE PRIZE
The Savoir-Faire Prize was awarded to the British designer Torishéju Dumi, 32, for her womenswear and menswear brand Torishéju. She will receive 200,000€ and enjoy a one-year mentorship by a team of LVMH experts. She will also enjoy support from the LVMH Métiers d’Excellence through a collaboration with Maison Vermont, the embroidery specialist, which will provide her with 50,000€ of embellishments for her upcoming collection.
The prize was presented by the actress Camille Cottin, dressed in Dior.
Each of the winners will benefit from a specific mentoring programme as well as an allowance from the Nona Source platform, which upcycles deadstock materials from the Group’s Fashion and Leather Goods brands. The winner of the LVMH Prize will receive 20,000 euros, while the winners of the Karl Lagerfeld and Savoir-Faire Prizes will receive 10,000 euros each.
THE LVMH PRIZE FOR YOUNG FASHION SCHOOL GRADUATES
Lastly, three recent fashion school graduates were recognized: Louna Clozel, who studied at La Cambre (Brussels), Sophia Sacchetti of Parsons Paris and Peiwen Mao of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp. They and their alma maters will receive a grant of 10,000 euros each. Respectively, the graduates will join the studios at Louis Vuitton Homme, Kenzo and Dior womenswear.
Photo Credit :Gerrit Jacob
Kering’s Material Innovation Lab presents S|STYLE 2025 DENIM LAB
The 2025 edition “S|STYLE – DENIM LAB” focuses on sustainable denim and water use, in collaboration with Kering’s Material Innovation Lab (MIL). Aligned with Kering’s Water Strategy, aiming for a Net Water-Positive impact by 2050, the exhibition takes place at Fondazione Sozzani in Milan, a symbolic venue for culture and innovation, long dedicated to promoting circular and conscious fashion.
Selected designers coming from countries such as Georgia, Germany, France, the UK, and Vietnam, are challenged to creatively reinterpret denim with a conscious and experimental approach, employing advanced technologies for dyeing, washing, and finishing with drastically reduced water usage, minimal or zero harmful chemicals, and cotton sourced from regenerative farming practices–a cutting-edge approach to sustainable natural materials. This year’s edition features denim materials by PureDenim and treatments by Tonello, both leaders in sustainable textile technologies. The event also includes an art installation by Mariano Franzetti, made from recycled denim.
Christian Tubito, Director of Kering’s Material Innovation Lab, stated: “At Kering, supporting S|STYLE and emerging brands is part of our ongoing commitment to driving positive change across the fashion industry. With this new edition of the DENIM LAB, we want to demonstrate how creativity and innovation can reimagine this iconic fabric in a more responsible way, drastically reducing water use, eliminating harmful chemicals, and embracing next-generation materials. This initiative is not only a showcase of style, but a tangible sign of change that, starting with luxury, inspires a more sustainable future for the entire textile sector.”
Giorgia Cantarini, founder of S|STYLE – DENIM LAB, commented:
“Denim is a universal fabric, but also one of the most complex in terms of environmental impact. With this edition of S|STYLE, we aim to prove that it’s possible to rethink denim sustainably by merging research, innovation, and creativity. Not just workwear, but couture and cutting-edge design. Thanks to the support of Kering’s Material Innovation Lab, designers gained access to technologies and materials that represent the future of responsible fashion. Milan Fashion Week thus becomes the perfect stage to launch a powerful message: water is life, and fashion must learn to respect it.”
Francesca Bellettini appointed President and CEO of Gucci
Kering has announced the appointment of Francesca Bellettini as President and Chief Executive Officer of Gucci, reporting to Luca de Meo, Chief Executive Officer of Kering.
Luca de Meo stated: “At this pivotal moment, I intend to build a leaner and clearer organization in which the best talent drive our Houses forward. Gucci, as the flagship of our Group, deserves the sharpest focus, and Francesca — one of the most seasoned and respected professionals in our industry — will bring the leadership and flawless execution needed to restore the brand to its rightful place.”
Francesca Bellettini declared: “I am truly honored to take on direct responsibility for Gucci, one of the world’s most iconic luxury Houses. I look forward to working under the leadership of Luca de Meo, whose innovative and fresh perspective inspires us to push boundaries. I’m excited to embark on this new challenge together with the whole Gucci team and alongside Demna, whose creativity I have always admired.”
Louis Vuitton unveils its new travel campaign: a journey to the heart of Chinese landscapes
Louis Vuitton has rolled out a new Travel Campaign, a poetic celebration of journeys through Chinese landscapes.
More than a journey, the Maison’s campaign captures the contemplative essence of travel, where each stage becomes a personal odyssey and an invitation to discover hidden beauty.
Photographed by Alec Soth, renowned for his signature fusion of documentary realism and poetic artistry, the campaign highlights China as a cultural bridge, far beyond familiar narratives. Honored by a Guggenheim Fellowship with over 30 books to his name, Alec Soth reveals lesser-known inspiring panoramas.
The journey begins along the Lijiang River in Guilin with breathtaking lakes mirroring mountain landscapes. Iconic Louis Vuitton pieces – from the Monogram Horizon to the Soft Keepall, the Alzer luggage to the Coffet Joaillerie and CoffretTrésor – embody the Art of Travel embodied by the Maison since 1854, a sublime alliance of elegance, functionality and exceptional savoir-faire.
Two more destinations, Zhangjiajie and Datong, will enrich the campaign in the coming months, continuing a visual and cultural exploration that melds innovation, heritage and superb craftsmanship.
MICAM’s upcoming 100th edition
MICAM, the leading event for fashionable, high-quality, innovative and sustainable footwear, will celebrate its 100th edition. From 7 to 9 September at Fiera Milano Rho, the trade fair will highlight more than half a century of history, combining heritage and innovation, in a way that has made it a key international showcase for both Italian SMEs and global brands presenting their latest collections.
The celebrations will include fashion shows, talks on innovation, a dedicated exhibition and the issue of a commemorative stamp. Visitors will be taken on a journey through the past, present and future of MICAM. MICAM will host 870 brands – 401 Italian and 469 international. The top five exhibiting countries after Italy are Spain, Turkey, Brazil, Germany and Portugal, and more than 30,000 buyers from 150 countries are expected.
The 100th edition will open with a ceremony featuring the cancellation of a special stamp from the series “Excellences of the Production System and Made in Italy”.
Alongside new Spring/Summer 2026 collections from leading international brands and Italy’s most renowned manufacturing districts, a special exhibition “100 STEPS INTO THE FUTURE” will retrace the evolution of taste, style and technology through iconic images. Each decade will be represented by two models: one lifestyle shoe reflecting everyday trends, and one technical-sport shoe symbolising innovation and performance.
MICAM will also feature the Trends & Materials area, with its AI-based Buyer Guide designed to support purchasing decisions and reduce unsold stock, and the Future of Retail space, dedicated to the innovative ideas reshaping retail.
Runway shows will provide the backdrop for today’s style, while 12 emerging international designers will showcase the creativity and innovation shaping tomorrow.
Innovation will also take centre stage in the new MICAM Next programme curated by Wired Italia, with talks on: “E-commerce, new tech: omnichannel strategies for footwear”, “Shoe design: between creativity and customisation”, “At the feet of AI”, and “Sport shoes, tech shoes”.
Young Italian startups will also be showcased, in collaboration with ICE and MAECI.
A new area in Pavilion 5 will also debut, showcasing an eclectic universe of footwear designed for every aspect of life, with an eye on global styles and trends.
The centenary of MICAM also coincides with the 80th anniversary of Assocalzaturifici, the association representing more than 400 Italian footwear companies and owner of the fair. A double milestone that celebrates the past – with its artisanal tradition and know-how – while looking towards the future and new achievements.
Dior unveils House of Dior New York
Dior has inaugurated House of Dior New York, located at the corner of 57th Street and Madison Avenue, just steps from the location where Christian Dior established his U.S. subsidiary in 1948.
Designed by architect Peter Marino, this unique flagship store embodies refined French elegance in the heart of the city that never sleeps.
Behind the stone façade with its monumental windows, the boutique’s four floors are bathed in light and soft tones, showcasing the different worlds of Dior, including women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, leather bags, accessories, jewelry, watches, perfumes and Dior Maison, creating a subtle dialogue between heritage and modernity.
A realm of excellence, the House of Dior New York is presenting exclusive creations and pre-launch products. Artist Anna Weyant reinterprets the Lady Dior bag, while Millefiori and Blue Jardin de Dior motifs blossom on garments. The Bois de Rose jewelry collection introduces exceptional pieces set with precious gemstones, a new variation of the B27 sneakers makes its debut in a limited-edition of just 47 pairs, and special Dior Maison objects are showcased.
The Dior Spa New York on the top floor is a 400-square-meter haven of peace offering cutting-edge bespoke treatments, the fruit of the Maison’s avant-garde spirit, renowned savoir-faire and unique expertise. Poetic life-size tableaux in majestic bay windows celebrate Christian Dior’s passion for nature thanks to creations in upcycled textiles from the Ateliers, embodying the alliance of virtuoso creative skills and a commitment to sustainability.
IFCO 8th edition: The gateway to International fashion
The 8th edition of IFCO demonstrated the strength and diversity of the Turkish fashion industry. On a total exhibition space of 25,000 square meters, brands and manufacturers showcased their latest collections in women’s, men’s, and children’s fashion, denim, accessories, and homewear. Nearly 20,000 trade visitors attended, with 43% international visitors, a 23% increase compared to August 2024.
A key success factor was the more than 400 B2B meetings that brought together 30 Turkish companies with 76 international buying groups. Many of these meetings went beyond networking and resulted in concrete procurement agreements, new collaborations, and long-term partnerships.
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“In just four years, IFCO has become a true success story in the international fashion industry. Since its launch in 2022, the fair has hosted nearly 3,000 exhibitors and welcomed 195,000 trade visitors from 165 countries across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, Central Asia, and other regions, firmly establishing Istanbul as a dynamic hub on the global fashion calendar. The 23% increase in international visitor numbers at our 8th edition compared to August 2024 highlights the global importance of our platform.” Mustafa Pasahan, Vice President of IHKIB
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TheCore Istanbul once again served as the creative highlight of IFCO, bringing together 24 of Turkey’s most influential designers. Cubist elements in earthy natural tones and materials created a modern yet organic atmosphere, enhancing the experience and underlining the premium positioning of Turkish design. The stage featured internationally celebrated names such as Arzu Kaprol, Mehtap Elaidi, Hatice Gökçe, Meltem Özbek, Özlem Süer, and Sudi Etuz by Şansım Adalı, all of whom garner attention from Paris Fashion Week to high-end concept stores and international trade fairs. The line-up was complemented by a new generation of creative talents
The IMA Trend Area combined academic insight with industry vision, reflecting not only seasonal trends but also broader cultural and social developments.
Under the guiding theme BE:COMING, the space explored a state of constant transformation, in a world shaped by speed, visibility, and digitalization. Instead of fixed identities, the focus was on openness and fluidity: fashion became a medium for change, intuition, and emotional self-determination. Organic silhouettes met technological textures, digital details merged with real materials. Lightweight fabrics, transparency, and delicacy revealed vulnerability not as weakness, but as a new form of strength.
The concept unfolded in four thematic directions:
–INTUMOTION: Intuitive movement with fluid cuts and second-skin materials such as bamboo jersey and breathable knit fabrics.
–ETHERLOOK: Craftsmanship and ritual, featuring handwoven cotton fabrics, natural dyes, and symbolic embroidery in sun-bleached hues.
–FANTASMIC: Opulent imagination with baroque volumes, antique brocades, velvet, and pearl details in tones ranging from antique ivory to oxidized gold.
–SUBCORE: A subtle techno aesthetic with thermochromic fabrics, memory yarns, and muted tones like slate gray and archival blue.
The next edition of IFCO – Istanbul Fashion Connection will take place February 4–7, 2026
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