These are the stories making headlines in fashion on Thursday.
Stella McCartney announces second collaboration with H&M
H&M has revealed Stella McCartney as its latest designer collaborator. The collection comes 20 years after the duo’s first partnership in November 2005. “I see this collection as a journey through my fashion history,” said McCartney in a press release. “It is a true mix of current classics and some of my old favorites that showcase my first forays into fashion and the development of my signatures. It’s playful, strong, sparkling, joyful, refined.” The Stella McCartney H&M collection will launch on May 7. {Fashionista inbox}
Victoria Beckham talks Gap collaboration and business growth
For her new cover story with WSJ. Magazine, Victoria Beckham gets candid about her business, discussing how she went from debt to making record-breaking profits, calling it a “radical transformation.” The former Spice Girl also talks about her brand’s new collaboration with Gap — a 38-piece collection of jean jackets, trench coats, dresses and T-shirts priced from $34 to $328. “When I look at the marketing power of the Gap, that’s huge for me,” she says. “It enables me to reach a customer that I’m not already reaching.” {WSJ. Magazine/paywalled}
Barneys may be making a comeback to Madison Avenue
Authentic Brands Group (ABG) Chairman and CEO Jamie Salter is reportedly in discussions with the landlord of 660 Madison Avenue — the former home of Barneys New York — about reopening the luxuryretail destination. After Barneys went bankrupt in 2019 and closed its doors, Authentic Brands Group bought the company. Saks Fifth Avenue initially had the exclusive retailing rights for Barneys in the United States, but because of Saks Global’s bankruptcy earlier this year, ABG can officially move forward with what would be a celebratory Barneys homecoming. {WWD}
Allbirds is pivoting to A.I.
After five years of failing to expand its consumer base and make a profit, Allbirds sold its business to a brand management company for $39 million — less than 1% of its former $4 billion valuation. Now, with all of its assets gone, the company has announced a “pivot” to artificial intelligence. In a press release, the San Francisco-based brand shared that “an institutional investor” has committed $50 million to finance the shift. Given that the business will no longer be about selling sneakers, it will also be changing its name from Allbirds to NewBird AI. {Allbirds}
Kering takes stake in Chinese Fashion Group Icicle
On Thursday, Kering announced that it would be taking a minority stake in Chinese Fashion Group ICCF, otherwise known as Icicle. In a press release, Kering said, “This partnership brings together ICCF’s deep understanding of the Chinese luxury ecosystem and cultural landscape with the Kering long‑standing expertise in craftsmanship, operations and brand development in Europe.” The statement continues, “The investment of Kering will support the next phase of development of ICCF’s flagship brand Icicle, including the continued international expansion of the brand, as well as the enrichment of its product offering across new categories.” Financial terms of the deal have not yet been disclosed. {Kering}
Tomboyx co-founder returns to brand leadership, regains controlling interest
Gender inclusive underwear and apparel brand Tomboyx has returned its controlling interest to co-founder Fran Dunaway, “marking a new chapter focused on sustainable growth, creative evolution, and long-term resilience,” according to a press release. Dunaway also returns to a leadership role as co-founder and president, and will work closely alongside the brand’s small group of investors. “Ensuring tomboyx remains true to its roots is deeply personal to me,” Dunaway said in a statement. “We’ve always believed what you wear can change how you feel about yourself, and I’m excited about how we’re evolving creatively while staying true to who we are.” {Fashionista inbox}
