FM AUGUST 2025 FULL

ESCA LEGAL

WHERE LAW FUELS BRAND GROWTH

FRANCESCA WITZBURG AND NICOLE DOLGON

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EDITORIAL

Editor

Rose Leveen

Editorial Consultant

Debra Hazel

Associate Editor

Penelope Herrera

Southeast Editor

Shanna Forrestall

Director of Communications and Marketing

Penelope Herrera

Graphic Design

Virginia Sanchez

Director of Newsletter Division

Cheri Phillips

PRESIDENT/CEO

Jeff Mann

ART DIRECTOR

Virginia Sanchez

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Isaiah Gill

CONTRIBUTORS

Annabella Lawlor

Daniella Platt

David Harouche

Debra Hazel

Dora Lau

Frank DeLucia

Krieger Worldwide

Marshal Cohen

Merilee Kern

Michael Sacco

BUSINESS

Technology Consultant

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ONE MANN’S OPINION

The summer is coming to a close, but things haven’t slowed down at Mann Publications. This month was a whirlwind and August will be even busier, but I’ll tell you about that after we talk about the most exciting part of Fashion Mannuscript’s August issue: our cover story.

We have a spectacular cover story about Francesca Witzburg and Nicole Dolgon, two talented lawyers from Esca Legal. Esca is a oneof-a-kind fi rm that specializes in intellectual property (IP) and brand protection—something vital to the fashion industry. Esca is in a league of its own, fi lling an important niche that brings law and fashion together. I can’t wait for you to read about Francesca and Nicole!

While we’re in the process of planning our golf outing for October, I have been attending several charity tournaments, including for the Jack Martin Fund, Big Brothers Big Sisters and more. You can read about these events and see great photos from them in the magazine. You’ll fi nd me at even more tournaments in August to support important organizations like the Jewish Children’s Museum and Sephardic Bikur Holim.

Summer trade shows are already underway, and they’re ramping up as we roll into August. June and July brought exciting shows like Paraiso Miami Swim Week, SwimShow and Atlanta Apparel, while August is bringing shows like Curve, WWIN and Magic.

We’re also working on expanding our social media presence on Instagram, X and LinkedIn. We’ve brought new people onto the team who are solely dedicated to connecting with followers and promoting our content.

As always, I am committed to bringing readers the newest and coolest information about fashion, with topics like AI, 3D printing and more always at the forefront. This month, we’re specifically highlighting innovations in garment and shoe construction, with brands like Antonia Saint NY and Wacoal leading the way.

I hope you enjoy our newest issue of Fashion Mannuscript, and I hope you’re having a great summer!

“Truly happy memories always live on, shining. Over time, one by one, they come back to life.”

— Banana Yoshimoto

Welcome back to Fashion Mannuscript! The June/July issue feels so long ago, which is why I’m extra excited to be presenting an August issue that’s full of fun, new content.

This month’s cover story is about Francesca Witzburg and Nicole Dolgon from Esca Legal, a firm focused on intellectual property, brand protection, contracts and litigation. Many things set Esca apart from a traditional law firm: its tech and digital expertise, its people-first approach and its mission to not only protect but grow its clients’ businesses. Witzburg and Dolgon do incredible work, and I can’t wait for you to read about it!

This month, the magazine is packed with trade show recaps, new collections, the latest innovations in fashion and more. Trade shows are a summer staple, and I’m looking forward to attending Curve New York in August, where I’ll see the action up close. (You’ll hear more about that in the next issue.)

Our contributors are also providing more valuable insights into logistics and supply chain management than ever, especially as the volatility of tariffs continues to affect businesses and consumers alike. Highlights from this issue include Marshal Cohen’s evaluation of retailers’ pricing strategies, Krieger Worldwide’s advice about supply chain diversification and 7thonline’s survey of retail executives.

I’ve given you a sneak peek of what’s to come when you turn the pages, but I’ll let the magazine speak for itself.

Have a beautiful August, and enjoy the issue!

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Dinner and Presentation of Golf Winners and Honorees

ANNUAL GOLF OUTING

Join Jeff Mann, The Mann Charitable Foundation and the National Realty Club Foundation as we are having a joint golf outing this year. On October 6, 2025, be prepared for another stellar annual golf outing. This outing will support causes such as Alzheimer’s disease, Crohn’s and Colitis, Lymphoma, Macular Degeneration along with raising money for the areas of NYC that need support including Bronx Historical Society, Community Mainstream, National Jewish Museum, Jewish National Fund, Catholic Faith Network, Nassau County Law Enforcement Exploring, among other areas.

Ramy Brook Celebrates Laughter, Fashion and Bold Energy

With the Most Hilarious Women in Comedy

Ramy Brook celebrated a night of fabulous friends, fashion and fun at the iconic “Funny is Fabulous” event. Held at NYC’s City Winery and headlined by comedians Danielle Mora, Gabby Bryan and Rachel Feinstein, the evening’s guests included Hannah Krohne, Connor Wood, Kelly Bensimon and more.

Dressed to impress in Ramy Brook’s SS25 collection, guests across the fashion and comedy scene celebrated the power of a good laugh and an even better closet. Ramy Brook Sharp, founder of the namesake brand, laughed the night away alongside guests, dressed in her signature vibrantly chic style. Must-have styles among guests included Ramy Brook’s Harriet Top, Melanie Dress and Abigayle Skirt.

Ramy Brook Sharp

Gabby Bryan Gabby Bryan, Rachel Feinstein, Ramy Brook Sharp and Danielle Mora

Ramy Brook Sharp

THE JACK MARTIN FUND ANNUAL Golf Outing

Supporting Pediatric Hematology and Oncology at Mount Sinai

The Jack Martin Fund (JMF) held its annual golf outing at Fresh Meadow Country Club and Deepdale Golf Club, two beautiful and historic clubs.

The day was marked with spectacular weather along with a wonderful sense of spirit and friendship, as attendees came together to support the Jack Martin Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

JMF honored Gary Malin, chief operating officer of the Corcoran Group, for his long-standing commitment to the organization. The Corcoran Group also served as the lead sponsor for this year’s outing.

This year’s golf outing and the related fundraising efforts will allow the Jack Martin Fund to raise in excess of $600,000 in support of the JMF Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology at Mount Sinai.

“This year’s golf outing and the related fundraising efforts will allow the Jack Martin Fund to raise in excess of $600,000...”

The organization’s leadership group is headed by chairmen Mark Zeller and Chris Mongeluzo, vice chairmen Kenny Dichter, Mitch Grabow, Glenn Reisender and Allan Trompeter, and secretary Jeff Gabel.

Jill Koslow, Ira Dubowy and Seth Koslow

The JMF leadership and vision of “giving back” has been passed down from the fund’s long-time leader, Alan Feldman. At JMF, the spirit of “giving back” is growing through a dedicated and spirited group of nextgeneration leaders who are helping to grow Jack Martin’s presence and support among 20- and 30-year-olds.

The Jack Martin Fund, now marking its 75th anniversary, is one of the most remarkable stories of volunteer support for medical care and research.

In terms of outright generosity and commitment to a specific institution— Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City—the Jack Martin Fund has few equals.

Since its inception in 1950, the fund has contributed nearly $50 million to Mount Sinai to further progress in human health through education, research and technology.

Learn more at jackmartinfund.org.

Susan Radar, Gary Malin, Zach Malin and Mike Sorrentino

Mark Zeller, Gary Malin and the Malin family

Mark Zeller, Gary Malin and Chris Mongeluzo

Nancy and Jeff Gabel and friends

Eric Gural, Craig Kaisand, Gerry Mongeluzo and Chris Mongeluzo

Lance Cholet, John Scally, Mark Zeller and Reed Fawley of UBS

Brothers Big Sisters of NYC’s 27th Annual Accountants and Bankers Reception

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of New York City hosted its 27th annual Accountants and Bankers Reception at Inside Park at St. Bart’s. The event brought together more than 300 professionals from the finance and accounting industries to celebrate mentoring and invest in the next generation of leaders. Thanks to the generosity of the sponsors and guests, BBBS raised a record-breaking $362,595— enough to ignite potential through the creation of 90 new one-to-one mentoring relationships between caring adults and NYC youth.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York City is deeply grateful to its honorees, Runi Mehta, senior vice president and relationship manager at Santander Bank, and Howard Hoff, managing director at CBIZ, for their personal and professional commitment to mentoring. Their remarks highlighted the power of showing up and the lasting impact of trusted relationships. Special thanks to Platinum Sponsors— CBIZ, Flagstar and Santander—and to the event chair Abby Parsonnet, executive managing director, head of asset based lending and commercial services at Webster Bank; and event co-chair Ellen Marshall, executive vice president, head of corporate and middle market banking at Santander.

Together, they’re investing in young people who will shape the future of the city.

Javier Carreras and Noble Obriki

Neil Desai

Runi Mehta, Karla Lebron and Matty Reyes

Photos courtesy of Alina Ryabova

Andy Lipman and Abby Parsonnet

Paul Amann and Nicolette Sinatra

Runi Mehta

Ralph Aiello, Vanessa Amendola and Kane Puga

Abby Parsonnet, Runi Mehta, Howard Hoff and Ellen Marshall

Eli Del Carmen

Stephanie Berg, Eli Del Carmen, Christina Gigante, Jori Miller Sherer, Melissa Worth and Sarah Bloch

2025 TWO TEN GALA RAISES FUNDS FOR CRITICAL PROGRAMS PROGRAMS

There was a lot of heart as well as sole at Two Ten’s annual gala. Leaders from across the footwear industry came together at The Glasshouse in NYC to raise critical funds for the foundation’s hardship and disaster relief programs, educational programs and community initiatives. The evening was also an opportunity to honor industry veteran David Kahan, president of Birkenstock Americas, and to recognize the achievements of the seven founding members of Two Ten’s Women in the Footwear Industry (WIFI) advisory board.

Two Ten board member Ronnie Jefferson, SVP/general marketing manager of Finish Line at Macy’s, kicked off the evening’s onstage program with a call to action, asking the audience to dig deep and give generously. Two Ten board chair Joe Preston, president and CEO of New Balance, anchored the mission segment of the program, reminding the audience that the reason the foundation exists is so we can be there for each other, providing hope in hard times, offering opportunity to rise and building a stronger industry community. Preston welcomed several Two Ten grant recipients to join him on stage to share their stories.

Kahan was presented with the A.A. Bloom Memorial Award in recognition of more than a decade of extraordinary service to advance the Two Ten mission of lifting lives. The members of Two Ten's WIFI advisory board were presented with the WIFI Impact Award in recognition of their leadership reinvigorating the WIFI community over the past two years. These extraordinary female

leaders include WIFI advisory board chair Sarah Bloch, SVP, footwear and accessories, Circana; board secretary Jori Miller Sherer, president, Minnetonka; and board members Stephanie Berg, senior director of sales, Birkenstock USA; Eli Del Carmen, VP of sales, Caleres; Kathy Forstadt, former senior director of merchandising, Zappos.com; Christina Gigante, VP of sales, Skechers (Bobs/Bobs Sport divisions); and Melissa Worth, SVP Americas, New Balance.

The festivities had a lighter side, too. Guests were invited to try their luck at arcade-style claw machines for a chance to win special prizes, including Yankees tickets and a golf outing at New Seabury donated by OrthoLite and gift cards donated by Famous Footwear, Nordstrom, Sam Edelman and Shoe Carnival. All proceeds from the sale of game tokens benefited Two Ten relief and education programs. In addition to delicious food and drinks, guests also enjoyed candy carts sponsored by Micro-Pak, where they could fill their bags with sweet treats to go.

Two Ten president and CEO Shawn Osborne closed out the evening by thanking the grant recipients who shared their stories during the program and acknowledging the 2025 gala sponsors, including Micro-Pak, Bordan Shoe, Dillard's, Power Rich, Zilsen, Authentic Brands Group, Bay Rag, DingCyuan Footwear, FDRA, First Precise Trading Ltd., Gupta H.C. Overseas Pvt. Ltd., Jade Footwear, Properwell Shoes Mfg. Ltd., Stella, William Blair, Zhi Mei Group and many more.

Shawn Osborne

Awards and honors presented during the evening included...

Brand of the Year:

Presented to Movado, accepted by Margot and Efraim Grinberg

Presented by Todd Kahn

Brand Collaboration:

Presented to Stuart Weitzman, accepted by Sharon Kanter

Presented by Mark Consuelos

Brand Innovation:

Presented to New Balance, accepted by Melissa Worth

Presented by Jaden Smith

Designer of the Year:

Presented to Reed Krakoff

Presented by Will Kahn

Emerging Designer:

Presented to Staud, accepted by Jon Zeiders

Presented by Lisa Aiken

Hall of Fame:

Presented to Bethann Hardison

Presented by Steven Kolb

Iconoclast:

Presented to Betsey Johnson, inaugural recipient of the Iconoclast ACE Award

Presented by Laverne Cox

Merchant of the Year:

Presented to Nordstrom, accepted by Debbi Hartley-Triesch

Presented by Jamie Nordstrom

Retail Innovation:

Presented to Printemps, accepted by Laura Lendrum

Presented by Fern Mallis

Legacy Honorees:

Patricia Nash: Celebrating 15 years

Jennifer Fisher: Celebrating 20 years

Rebecca Minkoff: Celebrating 20 years

Tom Ford Eyewear: Celebrating 20 years

Farylrobin: Celebrating 25 years

VSP Vision: Celebrating 70 years

Oakley: Celebrating 50 years

Bulova: Celebrating 150 years

Betsey Johnson and Caroline Vazzana

Ashley Longshore

Laverne Cox

Tyler Joe

Samil LaBeija and Marcus LaBeija

Monica Elias handbag detail

Gotmik

The Accessories Council’s 2025 ACE Awards

Honorees included Betsey Johnson, Bethann Hardison, Reed Krakoff, Printemps, Nordstrom and more

The Accessories Council (Ac) hosted its annual Accessories Council Excellence (ACE) Awards at the iconic Pierre Hotel in New York City. The gala honored and celebrated global brands, designers and trailblazers at the forefront of the fashion industry. The Ac named Bethann Hardison the 2025 Hall of Fame recipient and bestowed the inaugural Iconoclast ACE Award to Betsey Johnson.

The 2025 ACE Awards were presented in nine categories to designers, brands, retailers and pioneers who have helped to enhance growth and awareness of the accessories industry. In addition, eight Legacy Honors paid tribute to businesses that have reached significant milestones, marking years of success through determination, innovation and a commitment to excellence.

“For over 30 years, the Ac has been committed to recognizing the advancements and innovators of the accessories industry,” said Karen Giberson, president and CEO, the Ac. “We are thrilled to celebrate the brilliant 2025 ACE Award winners and toast the legacies of the trailblazers, designers and brands celebrating significant anniversaries amidst a challenging retail climate.”

Other notable guests and presenters in attendance at the black-tie event included Michael Benavente, Thomas Burkhardt, Monica Elias, Paris Hilinski, Camille Kostek, Ashley Longshore, Caroline Vazzana and Ac chairman Frank Zambrelli, among others.

The Pierre dazzled with accessories which were woven into the décor of the evening. Guests were hand-delivered Betsey Johnson mini baguette bags in bread baskets at their tables. The silent auction featured nearly 70 luxury items and experiences.

Sponsors of the 2025 ACE Awards included Marchon Eyewear, Bulova, Caleres, Coach, Collection 18, EssilorLuxottica, John Hardy, Judith Leiber Couture, Marcolin, Michael Kors, Nordstrom, Signal Brands, Steve Madden and The Jewelry Group.

Betsey Johnson

Lisa Marsh and Andrea Moore

Lockie Andrews, Tennille Kopiaz, Sabeen Mian, Liah Yoo and Lindsey Coffey

Sonal Gandhi, Jennifer Avallon, Michelle Carter, Carey Ann Campbell and Heather Salvatore Gruccio

Jennifer Avallon and Michelle Carter

Delivering Good’s 2025 Women of Impact Summit Celebrates Purpose-Driven Leadership

Delivering Good hosted its 2025 Women of Impact Summit at FIT in New York City, gathering nearly 250 leaders across fashion, finance, tech and philanthropy for a powerful afternoon of dialogue, impact and inspiration.

Board member and co-chair Andrea Moore opened the event, highlighting the nonprofit’s continued focus on measurable outcomes. In 2024 alone, Delivering Good distributed over $130 million in new goods, with $17 million already directed toward Los Angeles wildfire relief in early 2025.

Speakers included FIT President Joyce Brown and high school student Khosi Ahmed, who shared how receiving new essentials gave her confidence and direction. Journalist Lisa Marsh led a keynote on reinvention, followed by panels exploring inclusive beauty, sustainability, tech innovation and financial empowerment.

The event featured over 30 speakers, including: Noreen Allen (YOOBIC), Lockie Andrews (Rich Hair Care), Jennifer Avallon (Tumi), Michelle Bacharach (FindMine), Crystal Barnes (Paramount), Sonal Gandhi (The Lead), Carey Ann Campbell (Southern Tide), Michelle Carter (Mastercard), Lindsey Coffey (2020 Miss Earth), Neda Daneshzadeh (Prelude Growth Partners),

Keelin Evans (Macy’s), Hedieh Fakhriyazdi (White & Case LLP), Heather Salvatore Gruccio (Ann Taylor), Tennille Kopiasz (Blue Mistral, Fekkai and Bastide), Sarah Miyazawa LaFleur (MM. LaFleur), Patricia Lizarraga (Hypatia Capital), Sabeen Mian (Performance Beauty Group), Danessa Myricks (Danessa Myricks Beauty), Victoria O’Brien (Salesforce), Jessica Parry (Blackstone Group), Missy Pool (Apple), Elly Ross (Lil Sweet Treat), Cara Smyth (Accenture), Sonia Lapinsky (AlixPartners), Barma Uruchima (The Estée Lauder Companies), Stacie Tedesco (QVC Group) and Liah Yoo (KraveBeauty).

Delivering Good CEO Matthew Fasciano reminded attendees that the organization’s mission goes beyond products: “We’re delivering dignity, pride and possibility.” Board chair Andrea Weiss closed with a personal donation, encouraging others to honor the women who shaped their lives.

The Lead Sponsors were The Knitwell Group and Macy’s. The Inspiration Sponsors were Centric Brands, G-III Apparel Group and The O’Alliance.

Photos

Bottomless Closet hosted its annual Spring Luncheon at Cipriani 42nd Street, bringing together more than 400 guests to celebrate women’s empowerment and honor individuals advancing equity in the workplace. Emceed by PIX11’s Monica Morales, the event highlighted this year’s theme, “From Obstacles to Opportunities,” through powerful stories of transformation and impact.

Honorees included tennis icon and entrepreneur Venus Williams (Game Changer Award), Manuel Chinea of Popular Bank (Male Ally Award), Stacey Dackson of Structure Tone (Inspiration Award), longtime board member Anne Blackman (Distinguished Leadership Award) and volunteer Stefanie Steel (Luise Kleinberg Volunteer Award).

A panel of clients reflected on how the organization helped them build confidence, find purpose and set meaningful goals. Client Dianette Caraballo shared her emotional journey from homelessness to employment, calling Bottomless Closet a turning point in her life.

Founded in 1999, Bottomless Closet provides free career coaching, resume preparation, interview training and professional attire to help women in need secure employment and achieve financial independence. Executive director Melissa Norden announced plans to expand services by 32% in 2025. Proceeds from the luncheon will support these critical programs.

Bottomless Closet Hosts Annual Spring Luncheon

Metropolitan Commercial Bank team members Joan Willor, David Naranjo, Natalia Valenti, David Eisenberger and Carol Hasenstab

Photos courtesy of Jennifer Mitchell.

Melissa Norden, Bottomless Closet Executive Director

HIGH JEWELRY COLLECTION

CGS APPOINTS FASHION INDUSTRY LEADER ARI HOFFMAN TO BOARD AS PART OF CORPORATE RESTRUCTURING

CGS, a global provider of enterprise software, learning and outsourcing solutions, has announced a sweeping corporate restructuring designed to sharpen focus and accelerate growth across its business lines. The company has separated into four distinct legal entities, each aligned to a core capability: Computer Generated Solutions Inc. (including its BlueCherry fashion supply chain platform), CGS Global Immersive Inc. (AI and XR solutions), CGS Global Learning Inc. (corporate learning and development programs) and CGS Global Technology Services Inc. (business process outsourcing).

As part of the move, CGS founder and CEO Phil Friedman has stepped into the role of executive chairman across each company, supported by a slate of new board members selected for their deep sector expertise.

Among the most notable appointments is Ari Hoffman, who joins the board of the newly established CGS Inc. Widely regarded as one of fashion’s most influential executives, Hoffman brings more than 30 years of leadership at iconic brands including Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Lacroix, St. John, Lacoste, Gant, Benetton, Scotch & Soda, and Ted Baker.

Recognized on the industry’s Power 100 List, Hoffman is known for revitalizing heritage fashion brands and leading them through periods of reinvention and expansion. At Lacoste, he repositioned the brand for a younger audience and spearheaded retail growth across North America. As CEO of Gant USA, he launched the awardnominated Gant by Michael Bastian line, and later, as CEO of Scotch & Soda, drove aggressive international expansion. Most recently, he led the transformation of Ted Baker North America following its acquisition by Authentic Brands Group, modernizing its operations and digital strategy.

With his early foundation in luxury at Yves Saint Laurent and a career built on strategic repositioning and global retail excellence, Hoffman is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of innovation for BlueCherry and the broader CGS technology portfolio.

NEW ALICE + OLIVIA AND FORD BRONCO COLLABORATION REDEFINES ADVENTURE

AND FEARLESS FEMININITY

Alice + Olivia and Ford Bronco’s bold new collaboration celebrates fearless femininity and the spirit of adventure. The Alice + Olivia x Bronco capsule collection merges the brand’s whimsical sophistication with Bronco’s iconic off-road legacy.

Founded by Stacey Bendet, Alice + Olivia is celebrated for its boldly feminine designs, playful elegance and empowering perspective on fashion. The brand has become synonymous with standout style and confident self-expression, values that align seamlessly with Bronco’s legendary spirit of authentic off-road capability.

Since its debut in 1965, the Ford Bronco has stood as a cultural icon: a symbol of freedom, individuality and untamed off-road exploration. With its functional, squared-off silhouette and rugged character, Bronco has inspired generations to carve their own path. Now, reimagined through the lens of Alice + Olivia, the Bronco embraces a new kind of femininity—daring, confident and unapologetically original.

“This collection is for women who drive their own story—who lead with style, strength and individuality,” said Bendet. “Bronco’s legacy of independence made it the perfect partner for Alice + Olivia’s vision of modern, empowered femininity.”

The limited-edition collection channels the energy of the open road into elevated ready-to-wear pieces that exude adventure, confidence and trailblazing spirit. The assortment features statement denim, nostalgic graphic tees and digitally printed silks that nod to vintage Bronco ads and classic Americana. Ombré chevron bell bottoms, “Built Wild” baby tees and horse-motif silk blouses fuse rugged authenticity with feminine flair. Embroidered details, retro silhouettes and flashes of western glam transform each piece into a bold reinterpretation of adventure wear—for women who unapologetically live life on their own terms.

“Bronco is about adventure, capability and freedom for all,” said Lisa Materazzo, chief marketing officer, Ford Motor Company. “Our collaboration with Alice + Olivia celebrates those qualities through the lens of powerful femininity, modern expression and a bold style that’s classically American.”

Photo courtesy of Alice + Olivia

RED BIRD ROAD LAUNCHES CURATED

FRIENDLY

COLLECTION OF ECO-

JEWELRY SUPPORTING WOMEN-OWNED

BUSINESSES

Red Bird Road, a woman-owned sustainable jewelry and accessories retailer, announced the expansion of its curated collection featuring ethically made, eco-friendly jewelry and upcycled designer accessories. The company specializes in waterproof jewelry, gemstone pieces, gold and silver jewelry, and upcycled designer items sourced from women-owned businesses across the United States.

Based in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area, Red Bird Road differentiates itself through its commitment to sustainable styling and conscious consumerism. The company’s approach focuses on upcycling materials that would otherwise end up in landfills, while partnering exclusively with small makers and women-owned businesses throughout the production and packaging process.

The curated jewelry collection includes waterproof pieces suitable for everyday wear, ethically sourced gemstone jewelry and upcycled designer bags, accessories and hats. Each item is selected based on its quality, sustainability credentials, and the positive impact its purchase creates for small business communities.

Red Bird Road’s founder personally handselects all products and hand-packs every order in premium packaging, ensuring a personalized customer experience. The company’s business model emphasizes community upliftment through partnerships with women-owned businesses and makers who share similar values of ethical production and sustainable practices.

The expansion of Red Bird Road’s collection comes as consumer demand for sustainable and ethically made accessories continues to grow. The company’s focus on pieces meant to last aligns with increasing consumer awareness about the environmental impact of fast fashion and disposable accessories.

Photo courtesy of Lotus Jewelry Studio

H&M AND MIA REGAN CO-DESIGN THE PERFECT WARDROBE FOR SUMMER VACATIONS

H&M co-designed a summer wardrobe with Mia Regan, a British model and content creator. Regan brought her hand-drawn illustrations and instinctive style to design the capsule collection.

“I’ve built my dream summer wardrobe for the H&M customer, drawing inspiration from my travels to bohemian Ibiza, dancing at British festivals, retro movies and sun-soaked European holidays with friends,” said Regan.

Regan was involved in every step of the design process. From fi rst concepts to fi nal fittings, she shared mood boards, silhouette ideas, design details and color palettes along the way. With illustrations based on her trips around the world, these personal touches not only highlight Regan’s creativity but also make the collaboration feel more special.

The collection includes a range of slip dresses, knit separates, cargo trousers, capris, shorts, skirts, swimwear and tops. Accessories include slouchy bags, a rope belt and printed scarves in a color palette of sunny yellow, earthy tones and silver. There are asymmetric shapes and utilitarian references with playful details that reflect Regan’s favorite wardrobe pieces.

Key pieces include a yellow bias-cut slip dress with a crisscross back, a silver Lurex knitted set, a pair of capris with asymmetric cargo pockets and utilitarian details, and a taupe sleeveless maxidress with tie-up sides and an illustrated star on the front.

“Mia’s style is eclectic—she has a great eye for details and very instinctive way of mixing different elements,” said Ann-Sofie Johansson, creative advisor and head of womenswear design at H&M. “She wanted an ease in the collection that reflected her own style, which is unpretentious, fun and full of positive energy. It was so inspiring to see how this good friend of the brand explored her creativity through the whole design process.”

“Working closely with H&M’s hugely talented design team has been an incredible experience. When they approached me about designing this collection, I was beyond excited and fl attered. It’s been an amazing opportunity to bring my vision to life and create something I hope people will love,” said Regan.

Photo courtesy of H&M

Fashion Mannuscript is a monthly business-tobusiness magazine that delivers photo coverage of top fashion industry events, columns by experts in the community, and profiles of the people and companies behind some of the biggest deals in fashion. @Mann_pub @Mannpublications | @Fashion_mannuscript Mann Publications

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SUPPLY CHAIN, LOGISTICS AND FINANCE

The Movement of Fashion

Sport Time Integrates Clustag’s

RFID

Solutions To Overcome Supply Chain Challenges in Sporting Goods

Clustag, a leader in radio-frequency identification (RFID) solutions, has partnered with Sport Time, the premier sporting goods retailer and Nike’s top distributor in Eastern Europe, to integrate high-accuracy RFID solutions across several of its distribution hubs. This strategic alliance boosts efficiency in postpick control, optimizing order fulfillment across eight countries.

A Smarter Supply Chain for a Leading Nike Distributor

Sport Time, renowned for its extensive retail and wholesale network, is taking a major leap in intralogistics innovation. This company is the first Nike distributor to globally implement RFID in both warehouse and retail operations. As Sport Time sees it, this is not just a sign of trust but also a responsibility to lead a major supply chain transformation in the region. To achieve this, it is essential to have a reliable supplier with a strong track record of delivering high-quality, innovative solutions tailored to the industry’s needs.

Having the right supplier ensures the efficiency and accuracy of RFID processes, which connect all points of the supply chain—from the warehouse, through transportation, to the retail floor.

As products from the same order are grouped into boxes, they are scanned at the item level by RFID stations to identify any potential errors in pre-shipping. If discrepancies are found (such as missing items, extra items or faulty RFID tags), the affected boxes are sent to an audit area where an operator, assisted by Zentup’s user-friendly interface, corrects them before they are sent outbound. This process ensures that every product is properly matched to its order, preventing human errors before shipping.

“Managing diverse inventory in sporting goods is challenging, but our RFID solutions with Zentup ensure efficient reading, even with complex materials,” said Luis Rius, CEO of Clustag. “By integrating with [the] Sport Time warehouse system, we help them achieve peak efficiency in stock handling and order fulfillment.”

Sport Time’s regional marketplace operations and logistics director, Bojan Djordjevic, explained that RFID is not just about process improvement but about complete transformation.

“Instead of lengthy and manual receiving processes, we now have the ability to

accurately verify hundreds of items in just a few seconds—without physically scanning individual barcodes. For employees in retail stores, this technology means spending less time on operational tasks and more time focusing on customer service and interaction,” said Djordjevic.

Sport Time’s adoption of Clustag’s RFID solutions significantly enhances the accuracy of its supply chain while optimizing the reading efficiency and error tolerance at every stage. The single platform for capturing, analyzing and optimizing RFID data allows Sport Time to adapt its logistics strategy dynamically, improving performance for wholesale, retail and e-commerce customers alike.

As Nike’s leading distributor in the Balkans and Eastern Europe, Sport Time provides sportswear to millions of athletes across eight countries. With Clustag’s intralogistics solutions, the company has strengthened its logistics capabilities, both across its regional hubs and globally, improving overall supply chain performance.

Photo courtesy of Clustag

The standalone Max solution document outlines the RFID tunnel with RFID-Shield technology. It is designed to prevent stray readings and improve accuracy in traceability and identification processes.

Boxes with order discrepancies are sent to the audit zone, where an operator uses Zentup to reconcile contents and ensure accurate shipping.

Tariffs and the Consumer

A BACKAND-FORTH BATTLE

By Marshal Cohen, Chief Industry Analyst at Circana

Retail’s perfect storm just keeps circling. If it isn’t bad enough that the consumer’s confidence is low—getting better lately, but still low—we find it hard to come by growth in consumer spending. The footballing of tariff implementation going back and forth has the consumer in a bit of confusion, but they keep forging ahead. Retail sales show minor gains in food spending, mostly because of slightly higher prices. But the area where the consumer is showing their volatility comes from discretionary spending. “Spending with prioritization” is what I call it. Consumers are clearly choosing food spending first, kids second, and spending on themselves as a tertiary priority. The latest volley between the federal court system and the administration doesn’t help the situation much either.

One moment, we hear the tariffs are not to be enforced, and hours later, we hear they can be until further hearings are had. So, the football goes back and forth again while the consumer wrestles with what to do. This creates a state of limbo not only for the consumer, but even worse for the retailer.

Aggressive retailers have been forging ahead. They’ve brought in merchandise despite the tariffs, figuring they will cost average the products—meaning they will average out the price of existing lower-priced products with the new receipts that come with a higher cost. Retailers are already doing this with goods that haven’t hit the floor yet, hoping to slowly elevate prices so as not to create sticker shock, while

also learning just how much the consumer will absorb on specific items. Apparel seems to be the choice area here for cost averaging so far. Toys, appliances and some tech products have already seen price increases flat out.

Consumers have pulled back spending lately, but some of that is due to the “pull forward” of these items. When the tariffs were first announced, and the media was blasting out how certain items would be seeing huge price increases, consumers rushed to buy them. Shortly after, tariff rates were lowered, and fear dissipated for the time being. So, the consumer has now adopted the wait-and-see attitude unless they absolutely need the item—and would, therefore, be willing to pay a bit more.

However, retailers are not the ones to wait and see. Memorial Day and July 4th sales kicked into high gear, some even offering the “best deals of the year.” Retailers have now discovered a way around tariffs: By initially selling items at higher prices, they can discount the item with a promotional price, bringing the item back into a range that the consumer is willing to spend at. Prices may be up 25%, but it sure feels a lot better to consumers when they can grab a new TV or refrigerator at 20% off, and the increase doesn’t look and feel so bad. So, look for the balance of the year to be filled with “big sales” each and every month around a holiday.

The concern I have is the slight disruption of product supply due to the five-week period

when the elevated tariff levels were first announced. This caused many retailers and manufacturers to either cancel orders or divert them away from the U.S. market. That short disruption may cause a pause in the normal flow of merchandise, with toys most likely to be impacted. The U.S. imports nearly 70% of its toys from China, so many manufacturers halted production as they navigated the choppy waters of the high-level tariffs and decided to wait it out. Not all factories can ramp back up after a months-long shutdown to catch up with supply. The good news is that while the short supply of certain items will show up soon, by holiday time, we will likely see production and supply back in line with demand. However, remember that the media will hype the empty shelves and higher prices, which will spread worry and fear to consumers until the product returns to normal supply levels.

So where do we land after this? It appears we will see some higher prices with a low level of tariffs in play. But never rule out the resilience of the consumer. Consumers will show up, consumers will spend, and consumers will find a way to keep the gifts under the tree come holiday time. It may look a bit different, as consumers choose more practical gifts over flamboyant ones, but retail will not be going out of business this year.

WHAT OVER 100 RETAIL EXECUTIVES ARE PRIORITIZING

A key takeaway is the growing adoption of AI technologies for demand forecasting. One in three retail executives (33%) say they are now leveraging AI to help analyze and predict customer demand, an essential move as consumer behaviors remain unpredictable and competition intensifies. AI is not only helping retailers dynamically respond to shifting trends; it is also reducing reliance on outdated manual planning processes that stifle agility and lead to outdated decisions.

Reevaluate supplier locations or sourcing strategy

Cut back on product assortment or categories

Delay product launches or expansion plans

Another pressing concern: tariffs. A striking 73% of executives expressed concern over additional tariffs in the next 12 months. While there is uncertainty around how tariff policies will play out, many brands are already preparing. Thirty-five percent of respondents say their first move would be to adjust their pricing strategies to reflect the increase in cost, despite 34% of the same cohort stating declining consumer spending is their top concern. This indicates that brands have limited flexibility when protecting margins and may have to consider other tactics to preserve customer loyalty.

Top business concerns for retailers this year

7thonline conducted a survey of more than 100 retail executives to better understand how companies are navigating the second half of 2025, as the retail landscape continues to rapidly evolve, revealing a clear push toward smarter forecasting, strategic planning and increased flexibility to combat tariff-induced pressures.

The survey also highlights a thoughtful blend of short-term agility and longterm planning. Retailers are balancing tactical responses like tighter inventory management with broader investments in digital tools for supply chain resilience. The result is a more adaptive mindset, where technology plays a pivotal role in both solving immediate problems and setting the stage for future growth.

Ultimately, the survey paints a picture of a retail sector in transition. It’s more responsive, more data-driven and more prepared to make strategic shifts as needed. As pressure points like tariffs and inflation persist, retailers are doubling down on smarter planning and futureproofing their operations through innovation.

Photo courtesy of Adobe/fizkes

Asglobal consumer expectations rise and trends shift at an increasing velocity, fashion brands are reevaluating how they move goods from manufacturers to market. The most successful companies aren’t relying on a single freight method or conventional workflows. Instead, they’re leveraging integrated logistics strategies that blend cost-efficiency, agility and innovative technology to stay ahead.

A key piece of that strategy remains ocean freight, often the most economical mode for moving large volumes of apparel and textiles. While it lacks the speed of air transport, ocean shipping offers scale, and with the proper planning and partners, it can support even fast-moving supply chains. The foundation of strong ocean freight execution lies in forecasting and coordination. By integrating demand planning tools and real-time pointof-sale (POS) data, brands can better align production and shipping schedules with actual market demand. This not only reduces the risk of overproduction but also ensures that containers are fully utilized, improving the cost per unit and reducing waste.

Supplier collaboration also plays a critical role. With the right logistics partner, fashion brands can benefit from strategic order consolidation across multiple manufacturers, allowing them to build full-container loads (FCLs) rather than relying on less-than-container load (LCL) shipments. This approach not only improves cost efficiency but also provides greater control and visibility throughout the shipping process. By managing consolidation at origin, your logistics partner can ensure that all components of your shipment move together under a single booking, reducing handling, minimizing delays and enhancing overall supply chain reliability. Regular and consistent booking patterns with carriers and forwarders can further improve cost stability,

Seamless Logistics: How Fashion Brands Are Building Smarter Supply Chains

especially during high-demand seasons. Choosing flexible port entry strategies also helps reduce risk and maximize efficiency. Ports on the U.S. East Coast, U.S. Gulf Coast or inland locations may offer faster domestic distribution and lower congestion than traditional West Coast hubs, depending on a brand’s end destinations.

But the supply chain journey doesn’t end at the U.S. port. Once goods arrive in the United States, intermodal shipping is becoming an increasingly valuable tactic for fashion brands looking to control costs and boost reliability. With rising domestic freight expenses driven by fuel volatility, driver shortages and labor constraints, intermodal transport, which combines long-haul rail with short-haul trucking, offers a cost-effective and scalable alternative to over-the-road trucking.

Rail is significantly more fuel efficient than trucks, making it not only less expensive but also a more environmentally sustainable choice. For brands with distribution centers in major inland hubs, such as Chicago, Dallas or Atlanta, intermodal shipping can reduce both emissions and costs. Moreover, this approach helps optimize transportation networks. Rail handles the bulk of the cross-country movement, while trucks ensure timely finalmile delivery. This hybrid strategy reduces reliance on any single mode, providing brands with greater resilience and scheduling flexibility.

Still, smart logistics today isn’t just about choosing between ocean, air or rail; it’s about how these elements are combined, supported and managed through strategy, technology and partnership. Integrating blended freight models and supply chain platforms to unlock both speed and cost control offers brands the opportunity to step ahead of the competition. For instance, using split-mode shipping, a brand might fly in a portion of a hot-selling product to meet immediate demand while the rest arrives by sea to maintain margin protection. This gives merchandisers the ability to react fast without overreliance on expensive air freight.

Diversification is another key tactic. By sourcing from a variety of regions, including emerging manufacturing hubs in Southeast Asia and Central America, fashion companies

reduce exposure to supply disruptions, regional risks or trade policy shifts. These alternative sourcing strategies are increasingly attractive when paired with free trade agreements, which can reduce duties and improve overall landed cost. Visibility, once a persistent blind spot in global logistics, is also being transformed. With modern supply chain platforms like K-Trace Technology, brands now have access to real-time tracking, predictive ETAs and exception alerts. This level of insight allows supply chain managers to spot delays early, adjust downstream plans, and coordinate more effectively with sales and merchandising teams.

The fashion supply chain is no longer a onesize-fits-all model. The most successful brands today are embracing multimodal strategies, combining the strengths of different freight options and integrating data-driven decisionmaking into every layer of their operations. Ocean freight provides scalable, cost-efficient backbone support, air freight adds speed and agility where needed, and intermodal logistics offers sustainable, affordable inland movement.

Ultimately, these smart logistics tactics don’t just reduce costs, they support faster time to market, better inventory management and a more flexible, customer-responsive operation. For brands operating in the high-pressure world of fashion, where timing is everything and brand perception matters, an agile and intelligently managed supply chain is not just a necessity, it’s a strategic advantage.

By investing in flexible freight planning, diversifying sourcing and transportation modes, and leveraging technology to stay ahead of disruptions, fashion companies can ensure their supply chain isn’t just keeping up but driving growth and fostering brand loyalty. The right logistics partner helps you achieve these goals because successful supply chain execution requires a collaborative team.

If your current logistics partner has your supply chain confined to a single mode or trade lane, contact Krieger Worldwide today. We’ll help revitalize your strategy with flexible, efficient and scalable solutions tailored to your business.

NAVIGATING TAX REFORM

Key Takeaways for Apparel Companies and Their Owners

By Michael Sacco, National Consumer and Industrial Products Leader, CBIZ

BUSINESSES

President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) into law on July 4, introducing numerous tax and spending measures that present new opportunities for consumer product companies and manufacturers. Below is an overview of the key business, international and individual provisions included in the legislation.

Research and experimentation: The OBBBA restores the ability to immediately deduct domestic research and experimentation (R&E) expenses. Additionally, small businesses with gross receipts of $31 million or less can amend their 2022 and 2023 tax returns and administrative adjustment requests (AARs)—or amend filed 2024 returns or take this position on unfiled returns—to fully claim the deduction for each of those years. Alternatively, all taxpayers may choose to claim the prior years’ deduction in 2025 or spread it over two years through 2026. However, foreign R&E expenditures must still be capitalized and amortized over 15 years.

Bonus depreciation: The OBBBA makes the first-year bonus depreciation provisions of Section 168(k) permanent. The allowance is increased to 100% for property acquired and placed in service after Jan. 19, 2025.

Qualified production property: Manufacturers are eligible to claim a 100% deduction for the cost of new “qualified production property,” which includes real property used in a “qualified production activity”—defined as manufacturing, producing or refining a qualified product that results in a substantial transformation of the underlying property. A “qualified product” means any tangible personal property—if such property is not a food or beverage prepared in

the same building as the retail establishment in which the property is sold. This enhanced deduction applies to qualified property placed in service after the enactment date and before Jan.1, 2031.

Business interest limitation: The OBBBA restores the business interest deduction limitation, based on income calculated without including deductions for depreciation, amortization or depletion. This change applies to taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2024. The legislation also introduces a new ordering rule, requiring the calculation of the Section 163(j) limit before applying other interest capitalization rules.

Qualified opportunity zones (OZs): The OBBBA includes a permanent rolling 10-year designation beginning Jan. 1, 2027, maintains the current OZ designation process, and provides strengthened eligibility requirements.

Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC): No credit is allowed for claims related to Q3 2021 (and certain Q4 2021 cases) filed after Jan. 31, 2024. The IRS has six years to reexamine and deny or claw back erroneous or excessive ERTC claims for these quarters. Employers with denied claims for affected quarters have six years from the claim filing date to seek refunds for related disallowed wage deductions.

BUSINESSES WITH INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS

Global intangible low-taxed income (GILTI): The OBBBA modifies the Section 250 deduction for GILTI to 40%. The foreign tax credit reduction is 10%. This results in an effective tax rate on GILTI to 14%. The deduction for qualified business asset investment (QBAI) in determining a U.S. shareholder’s GILTI inclusion is eliminated. Additionally, the allocation of expenses is limited (before foreign tax credits) for taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2025.

Foreign-derived intangible income (FDII): Similarly, for domestic corporations, the OBBBA reduces to 33.34% the currently applicable 37.5% deduction for FDII, which was scheduled to decline to 21.875% after 2025. Therefore, the effective tax rate on FDII is slightly increased to 14%, consistent with GILTI. The new rules apply to tax years starting after Dec. 31, 2025.

INDIVIDUALS

State and local tax (SALT) cap: Previously, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) capped itemized deductions for state, local and foreign taxes at $10,000. Many states responded by allowing pass-through entities to pay an entity-level tax to bypass this limit. The OBBBA temporarily raises the SALT cap to $40,000, with phaseouts starting at $500,000 of income, for five years. In 2026, the cap increases by 1% (to $40,400 for households earning under $505,000) and continues rising 1% annually through 2029. After that, the SALT cap permanently returns to $10,000.

Pass-through entity tax (PTET) deduction: The legislation essentially maintains the current status quo regarding PTET deductions.

Section 1202 small business stock: The OBBBA provides a permanent tiered gain exclusion for qualified small business stock (QSBS) of 50% for QSBS held for at least three years, 75% for QSBS held for at least four years, and 100% for QSBS held for at least five years. The change only applies to stock originally issued after the date of enactment. The gain excluded under the threeand four-year rules would not be treated as a preference item for purposes of the alternative minimum tax (AMT) if the stock were acquired after Sept. 27, 2010.

The per-issuer cumulative exclusion limitation increases from $10 million to $15 million, with an annual inflation adjustment increase. Taxpayers who fully use the limitation as inflation-adjusted in any

tax year are not eligible for additional inflation adjustments. The conforming amendments ensure married filing separate taxpayers benefit from the adjusted inflation limitations on a per-issuer basis. In addition, the OBBBA increases the “aggregate gross asset” calculation under IRC Section 1202(d) to $75 million from $50 million, which is also subject to an annual inflation adjustment.

Charitable contributions: The legislation creates a permanent deduction for taxpayers who do not itemize their deductions. For tax years beginning after Dec. 31, 2025, non-itemizing taxpayers can claim a deduction of up to $1,000 if a single filer ($2,000, married filing jointly) for specific charitable contributions. For taxpayers who itemize their deductions, the legislation limits otherwise allowable charitable contribution deductions to amounts exceeding a 0.5% floor over the contribution base (generally, adjusted gross income without regard to net operating losses) for tax years beginning after Dec. 31, 2025. New carryover rules apply to amounts not eligible for deduction. The legislation also permanently extends the increased 60% contribution limit for cash gifts to qualified charities.

Qualified business income (QBI) deduction: Currently, an individual can potentially deduct up to 20% of qualified business income. The OBBBA makes the QBI deduction, which was scheduled to expire after 2025, permanent.

PROVISIONS

AFFECTING TRUSTS, ESTATES

AND GIFTS

Tax rates: The act permanently extends TCJA income tax rates and brackets for estates and trusts.

Exemption: The unified estate and gift tax exemption is made permanent to an inflation-indexed $15 million per individual for taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2025. The generationskipping transfer tax exemption is also permanently increased to an inflation-indexed $15 million.

Now that OBBBA is law, these significant changes can be game changers for consumer product companies and manufacturers investing in their businesses, innovating products and manufacturing applications, while also looking to manage cash flow. Consult your tax advisor to proactively manage your approach. LOOKING AHEAD

Introduces Winter 2025 Collection

Coach debuted Stuart Vevers’ Winter 2025 collection, the next chapter of his vision for Coach’s American heritage, seen through the lens of youth culture and the expressive spirit of today’s generation. Inspired by the joy and indulgence of the holiday season, the collection juxtaposes garments with a sense of occasion and playful accessories against more grounded, archetypal elements of American sportswear.

A celebration for the ritual of dressing up and going out, the collection features an assortment of crepe, chiffon, taffeta and tulle dresses and skirts, cut at a long length for dramatic effect and embellished with flocked stars, embroidered polka dots, sequin paillettes and appliqued butterfl ies. Peplum tops are constructed to resemble the top half of vintage 1940s dresses, while jackets in suede and denim channel the romance of the American Southwest. Layered combinations of plaid blazers, shirts and ties inspired by early American sportswear bring a dynamic sense of pattern to tailored designs.

Knitwear features shaggy textured oversized cardigans and sweaters, as well as more fitted shapes with bow-tie details. Intarsia jerseys and cardigans feature images of Disney’s Pluto, who also appears on sweatshirts and tees. Reflecting the silhouette of the Fall collection, many looks feature oversized, repurposed denim trousers, or pleated wool or leather maxi skirts worn by all genders. A faux fur cape

in a tiger print, long coats in shearling and repurposed denim, a double-breasted teddy coat with matching hat and a gauzy sequined capelet made of silk chiffon are among the unique, unexpected pieces sprinkled throughout the collection.

“Before I understood what fashion was, I found joy in the idea of dressing up. It started with my mom dressing my brother and me in matching themed outfits to watch the amateur theater shows put on by my grandmother,” said Vevers. “Then, in high school, that same grandmother helped me craft clubbing outfits out of scraps of vinyl and charity shop treasures that promised a fun night out. Today, my children and I play with wands, crowns, swords and capes that open our world to endless self-expression and immediate optimism. I wanted to share the sense of possibility that fashion allows us to feel, manifest and enact.”

In leather goods, three archival bags by Coach’s fi rst lead designer, Bonnie Cashin, have been reconsidered for today. These include the Double Entry Satchel, a 1969 design featuring two side-pockets with kisslock closures; the Doctor Satchel, a 1973 handbag with rolled leather handles and two turnlock pockets; and the Swagger Bag from 1967. These appear in natural heritage patina leather, as well as red, white and metallic gold fi nishes. The Kisslock Frame Bag makes a return, now in slightly smaller proportions, and the Twin Turnlock Bag featured in the Fall show also reappears—now with elongated straps

to meet the needs of today’s dynamic generation.

Footwear sees the signature Coach bow pump now studded with crystals in red, silver and black; a new supple leather slipper; and the Soho Sneaker in red, black, and white suede and leather, as well as in tiger, zebra and leopard prints, all embellished with hand-sewn star leather appliques. Optical glasses and sunglasses retain their graphic rave-inspired shape from Fall but now sparkle with crystal embellishment. Jewelry has a celestial inspiration, with an assortment of stars, suns, moons and angels rendered in contrasting silver and brass tones, with some featuring crystal details.

Tapping into the joyful spirit and imagination inherent in the act of getting dressed up, the collection is completed by a set of special accessories, including adjustable leather crowns, wands and swords crafted from stacked leather, bunny ears in shearling and leather, and five plush bag charms of stuffed animals wearing seasonal accessories.

Photographed by Mark Kean, the images in the lookbook were captured in studio against simple pastel backdrops. They make for a series of portraits fi lled with the strong sense of personality and selfexpression of the collection’s many characters.

hristian Juul Nielsen debuted his Resort 2026 collection for Aknvas at his New York City Garment District

offices.

Entitled “Once Upon Tomorrow,” this collection from Aknvas is a tribute to craftsmanship, texture and storytelling—three elements that lie at the heart of his work. Surfaces take center stage: rich faux furs, tactile embroideries, layered fabrics. These are emotional pieces, meant to be worn with a sense of drama, fantasy and modern elegance.

Following the success of Fall ’25, which drew heavily on Danish royalty and historical references, he wanted to evolve the narrative. This season, the same girl steps out of the past and into the present. Who is she today? What’s her world like? Where is she going?

Nielsen has brought her into “the now” but hasn’t let go of the fairytale—he still embraces fantasy and Scandinavian mythology but has styled these inspirations for a contemporary woman. Neilsen looked to ballet dancers and imaginary Nordic princesses, then reimagined them with a modern, urban sensibility.

Having worked in couture for years, embroidery is second nature to

Nielsen—and this season, he pushed the technique further. Layering matte and shiny sequins in varied sizes, he embroidered them in abstract patterns in dark chartreuse and black, and experimented with heat-molded sequins and bugle beads to create snow-like textures sculpted into draped forms.

Nielsen’s background includes extensive work with real fur, particularly through his collaborations with Saga Furs in Denmark. “Although this season is fully faux, I approached every piece as I would in couture—with precision and technique,” Nielson said. He printed leopard motifs onto faux mink, created scarves in mixed textures that resemble “fox backbone stripes” and referenced raccoon skins to add variety to the accessory offerings.

Nielsen also turned fil coupé lamé inside out, achieving a forestsnakeskin effect that ties back to gloves and styling throughout the collection.

In the end, “Once Upon Tomorrow” is a rich holiday collection for the woman ready to celebrate—to feel powerful, feminine and entirely herself.

ONCE UPON tomorrow

A RESORT 2026 COLLECTION BY AKNVAS

MODERN LAW for MODERN BRANDS

Francesca Witzburg established Esca Legal with a clear mission: to redefine what legal counsel should look like in the age of digital-first entrepreneurship. With a strategic focus on intellectual property (IP) and brand protection, Esca sits at the intersection of fashion, beauty, consumer goods and tech. But more importantly, it represents a radical shift—empowering startups and scaling brands to access the same level of legal sophistication traditionally reserved for industry giants.

The Birth of a New Legal Archetype

Witzburg, a former big law partner who made her mark at fi rms like Dentons and Loza & Loza LLP, didn’t initially set out to disrupt the legal space. But by her early 30s, after years climbing the ranks and making partner at an early age, she found herself at a true career crossroads.

“I realized that the traditional legal model no longer matched the way the world was working,” Witzburg explained. “There was too much bureaucracy and not enough innovation. Meanwhile, I saw this surge of dynamic, creative entrepreneurs building incredible brands, and they were navigating legal landmines without the tools or support they desperately needed. I wanted to meet them where they were.”

In 2023, she launched Esca with her husband and business partner, Adam Witzburg. Francesca brought the legal vision; Adam, a seasoned business and tech strategist, built the fi rm’s operations from the ground up. Together, they designed an entirely new kind of legal experience: one built on value, access and proactivity rather than billable hours and red tape.

A People-First Practice for the Entrepreneurial Era

Today, Esca is one of the fastest-growing IP firms catering to ambitious, design-centric companies. Its recent seven-figure win in a federal trade dress case sent a clear message: boutique doesn’t mean lesser. At Esca, modern brands get powerhouse protection, delivered with agility, clarity and entrepreneurial savvy.

Esca’s fi rst partner, Nicole Dolgon, arrived in late 2023. Dolgon, a fellow Cardozo Law alum with a background spanning litigation and high-profi le companies, epitomizes the multidisciplinary fluency that Esca values.

Prior to joining the fi rm, she held a senior role at ED Ellen

DeGeneres, overseeing business development and licensing. Despite having overlapped at Cardozo Law for a year, ED Ellen DeGeneres was where Witzburg and Dolgon met, with Witzburg as the DeGeneres’ team’s IP counsel. Witzburg and Dolgon worked closely on both IP protection and strategic growth.

Witzburg has extensive legal experience in the fashion industry, including working at brands like Prada, Tory Burch, Versace and Jimmy Choo, and representing popular fashion and accessory brands like Bala Bangles, Tushbaby and Overnight Blowout.

Dolgon has experience working with celebrity brands at Ellen DeGeneres, and with fashion brands including Marquee Brands (home to Martha Stewart and Anti Social Social Club) and Centric Brands.

That brand-side perspective now serves Esca clients navigating both the creative and commercial sides of intellectual property. After nearly five years at ED Ellen DeGeneres, Dolgon served as senior counsel at Party City for almost two years.

“What drew me to Esca was its clarity of mission,” Dolgon shared. “We’re not here to be lawyers in ivory towers. We’re here to be embedded, accessible strategic partners. My clients want to protect their brands while simultaneously growing them. That’s where our legal expertise and business acumen meet.”

Both Dolgon and Witzburg are the mothers of young children, and they lead the fi rm’s family-forward culture. Dolgon works evenings after her kids go to bed; Witzburg rises before dawn to get a jump on client work.

Photo courtesy of

Photos courtesy of Isaiah Gill

“The legal world isn’t known for being human-centric,” said Witzburg. “But Esca was always about creating a career model and client model that reflects real life.”

From

Trademark

Filings To Trade Dress Showdowns and Buzzed About Collabs

While Esca offers traditional services like IP filings, contract drafting and enforcement, it’s the firm’s high-impact litigation, anti-counterfeiting work and notable clients that’s gained industry-wide attention.

In a recent case, Esca represented a fast-scaling consumer brand whose flagship product was copied by a notable competitor—down to the look, feel and packaging. The stakes were high; the infringement wasn’t just a design issue, but a real and pervasive threat to the brand’s identity and market dominance.

Esca’s team developed a surgical litigation strategy, culminating in a $1 million summary judgment. The win was a defining moment for the firm, and a wake-up call to the industry.

“Too many small and midsize businesses underestimate the value of their intellectual property,” Witzburg said. “They think enforcement is only for major corporations. But today, even microbrands are vulnerable and attractive to copycats and counterfeiters. Our job is to help them see their IP as a business asset, and to protect it accordingly.”

Esca is also behind the most buzzed-about brand collaborations in the consumer space. From advising on the Matchaful x Addison Rae partnership to the Kravet x Pottery Barn collection, the firm helps clients structure creative deals that protect their IP while maximizing exposure and revenue. These collaborations reflect Esca’s broader ethos—that great legal strategy should not only defend a brand but should elevate it.

Esca’s approach is sound: identify risk early, deploy preventative strategies and take swift action when rights are infringed. Whether it’s filing Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) takedowns on social media, navigating Amazon’s Brand Registry, litigating in federal court or working intimately with opposing counsel, the team brings deep expertise and an entrepreneurial mindset to every case.

Legal Services, Reimagined for Brand Builders

What sets Esca apart isn’t just its success in courtrooms but its alignment with the people behind the brands.

From fashion and beauty founders to tech entrepreneurs and consumer product creators, Esca’s client base is wide but unified by a common thread: creativity and ambition.

“Most of our clients are scaling fast and wearing a million hats,” said Dolgon. “They don’t want to be buried in legalese. They want clear answers, efficient action and a trusted partner who understands their vision.”

To meet that need, Esca offers clients more than just legal deliverables. Every engagement begins with an IP audit and ends with a custom protection road map, highlighting vulnerabilities, prioritizing filings and allocating resources based on stage and goals.

“We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all,” Witzburg added. “A trademark portfolio for a tech startup will look different from that of a beauty brand. Our job is to tailor a plan that maximizes impact without overwhelming the client and their budget.”

This tailored approach has made Esca a magnet for brand owners seeking strategic guidance in a saturated market.

Escapades, Podcasts and Platform Power

Esca’s forward-facing brand extends well beyond the courtroom. In a world where digital presence is paramount, the firm has become a legal thought leader on platforms where business is actually happening.

The firm’s annual event, Escapades, is a collision of legal strategy and entrepreneurial community. The 2024 and 2025 events brought together hundreds of founders, attorneys and investors for panels, networking and tactical workshops. Plans are already underway for the 2026 installment in New York City.

Online, Esca’s team commands a substantial audience. Witzburg and Dolgon share regular insights across Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube, demystifying complex legal topics and engaging directly with the communities they serve. Their following is not just vanity, it’s actual conversion. Clients routinely fi nd Esca through a post, a podcast or a panel. Those podcasts include Esca’s “Legal Lounge,” Witzburg’s “Legal Limelight” and Dolgon’s “Beyond the Fine Print,” each offering a mix of case studies, founder interviews and practical legal frameworks.

Witzburg and Dolgon also maintain a robust speaking calendar, frequently appearing at conferences, brand summits and industry panels nationwide. Dolgon recently spoke at Tubi’s legal off site, joined Morgan Stanley in educating Penn State football players on name, image and likeness (NIL) rights, and addressed an audience of top interior designers and home brands at the Design Leadership Network’s annual business forum. Witzburg, meanwhile, led a brand enforcement panel at Amplify, hosted events at the International Trademark Association (INTA) and delivered insights at the Jewelers Vigilance Committee’s annual luncheon.

“There’s a misconception that legal content can’t be engaging,” said Dolgon. “But our goal is to make legal literacy feel empowering —like a creative tool, not just a compliance checklist.”

Looking Ahead: Esca’s Expansive Vision

As Esca continues to scale, Witzburg and Dolgon remain grounded in the fi rm’s mission: to bring big-law quality to brands of every size.

“In many ways, we’re just getting started,” said Adam Witzburg. “We’re exploring AI tools to automate our internal processes to decrease our clients’ bills, actively expanding our team and continuously refi ning our fi rm’s systems to serve more clients without losing the personal touch.”

Esca’s road map also includes a growing suite of educational products and partnerships aimed at equipping founders with the knowledge to proactively protect what they’re building.

“We’re not just a law fi rm,” Witzburg said. “We’re part of this generation of builders who want to create lasting businesses. And protecting those creations is not optional. It’s essential.”

A Boutique Built To Scale

In an industry slow to adapt, Esca is proof that modern law can move at the speed of modern business. It’s a fi rm that is unafraid to blend rigor with relatability, strategy with speed, and substance with style.

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Paris in the late 1940s saw immense changes to its city, both socially and visually. Women traded in their work boots for heels, once again hearing the clack of each step against the cobblestone streets. During World War II, luxuries were not afforded under the restrictions of wartime rations, monumentally affecting the production of non-utility clothing for fear of wasting resources.

As women entered the workforce during the war, slim shapes and sharp lines characterized global feminine styles for fear of excess waste in garment production. Assuming occupations of those called to war, women also visually emulated the (then) masculine nature of labor by donning utility suits and trousers.

But after the war’s end, the desire to grasp some semblance of normality plagued the world, and men returned to work. In post-war France, revived fashion houses scrambled to produce visions of extravagance and uniqueness: a look that would define a generation and social period—one of recovery, celebration and restoration.

Is the

Totally Innocent in Perpetuating the Image of Idealized Femininity?

By Annabella Lawlor for University of Fashion

In 1947, French designer Christian Dior debuted a characteristic look, an exaggerated revival of pre-war silhouettes. Coined the “New Look” by fashion writers, the design’s slim waist accentuated the extravagant billowing pleats of its skirt. The rigid shoulders of wartime suits were softened into curving lines, while sharpness instead shaped the waist into petite restriction. The style thus became a physical embodiment of the burgeoning postwar fashion markets and global economies. In its curvaceous allure, the “New Look” not only cemented Paris as an unwavering influence on global fashion but also represented a revival of the couture industry as a whole.

However, a dress that was made to exemplify a period of independence was soon mobilized into symbols of social confinement. As the American ready-to-wear industry continued to develop in the 1950s, Dior’s “New Look” became synonymous with the vision of suburban motherhood and wifehood. The “house dress,” a shirtwaist dress often cinched at the waist and full in the skirt, was seen as suitable for all duties of the suburban household: cooking, cleaning and silence. In her 1959 book, “Wife Dressing: The Fine Art of Being a Well-Dressed Wife,” fashion designer Anne Fogarty described the simple austerity of the shirtwaist dress as ideal for one’s role in the home.

‘Blue Train’ by Carven - 1949Palais Galliera - Fashion Museum of the City of Paris, France - CC0.

In this light, the “New Look” is a balance of constraint and freedom, as the waist cinches the liberating movement of its twirling pleats. With every flounce of its skirt, the garment models the cultural ideals of femininity as a normalcy in Western society. For the housewife, it accentuates the curves of her form into almost cartoonish shapes. The “New Look” isn’t a dress. It’s a body in motion, constructed by a male designer and dictated into idealized, silhouetted perfection.

The “New Look” is undeniably beautiful; it revolutionized and revived the economy of global haute couture. Two things can be true at once. This hyperfeminine style overshadowed the freedoms granted to women during World War II. Used against the image of equality and progression in the 1950s, the “New Look”—while chic—was detrimental to the garmenting of women in post-war societies, confining them to visions of purity and softness.

It’s hard to ignore how this exaggerated silhouette has been weaponized throughout history. In recent years, the style has seen a rise in popularity with fluctuating trends, often in tandem with the

rise of political conservatism in the United States. The “tradwife” aesthetic—one that preaches modest dress, hours working in the kitchen on homemade meals and images of rural sanctuary in a childfilled home—riddled the internet in the months leading up to the 2024 presidential election. Characteristic of the popularized style, the “milkmaid dress” is constructed by floral prints, a soft bunching of fabric at the bust and an A-line skirt: a silhouette descending from Dior’s 1947 design. In 2025, media has been encouraging women to fulfill their duties in the home in support of their working husbands. With many faces of the “tradwife” movement dressed in Dior’s characteristic design, the “New Look’s” soft femininity has likely been deemed ubiquitously suitable as its defining, idealized attire.

That is not to say that expressing one’s femininity through fashion always equates to social restriction. However, when viewing shifting data in both the garment industry and political system, these hyperfeminine clothing styles do not diverge from accompanying conservative values. Fashion has always been impacted by the social beliefs of a period.

Nordiska Kompaniet. Woman in bell-shaped dress, three-quarter sleeves with turn-up. Blouse with ruffles, black belt and black gloves. Text on the back: “Christian Dior new look.” by Holmén, Erik - Nordic Museum Foundation, Sweden - CC BY.

Model in dress with pleated details, belt and pumps, from Christian Dior. by Nordiska Kompaniet - Nordic Museum Foundation, Sweden - CC BY.

Photo courtesy of Kateryna Hliznitsova on Unsplash

August 17–20, 2025

The Expo at World Market Center 435 S. Grand Central Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89106

LasVegas-Apparel.com

Register Today at LasVegas-Apparel.com

Join us at Las Vegas Apparel in August for maximum discovery of new and leading brands at our co-located show with Womenswear in Nevada (WWIN). Our partnership offers an easy-to-shop buying destination, generous amenities and a fun, comfortable atmosphere for placing orders. Don’t miss the excitement! Save the date for August 2025 and discover more about Womenswear in Nevada at WWINshow.com.

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BRANDS TO SHOP

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THE FASHION MANNUSCRIPT PRESENTS: TECHWEAR

Bringing you the latest breakthroughs in software, I.T. and fashion technology. From creative solutions to insights from experts, we are the source for all things fashion tech.

courtesy

Photo

of Unsplash

technology footwear

Revolutionizing Women’s High

Heels

By Merilee Kern, MBA

For generations, women have endured the high cost of high heels: the searing discomfort, the aching soles, the Band-Aid-filled handbags—paying the price for fashion at the expense of function. But a new era in women’s footwear is finally here, led by a visionary who’s no stranger to industry disruption. Meet Antonia Saint NY, the footwear fashion-tech brand reengineering what it means to walk in style— without the pain.

Co-founded by Antonia Saint Dunbar, previously the creative force behind the groundbreaking periodproof underwear brand Thinx, this innovative company was born out of necessity—and a long, painful walk across New York City. The solution? A completely new approach to women’s shoe construction, material science and design. The result? A patented, comfort-first innovation, known as the Slim SoftSurround System, embedded into every elegant pair of Antonia Saint NY shoes.

Photos courtesy of Antonia Saint NY

yRethinking the Heel: Beauty Meets Biomechanics

At its core, the Slim SoftSurround System is a 360-degree cushioned support network that envelopes the entire foot—from heel to toe and top to bottom. Rather than forcing the foot to conform to traditional shoe architecture, Dunbar’s designs are engineered around the wearer. Each shoe features soft, contoured padding, dual-layered foam under the ball and heel, and ultrasuede linings that prevent friction and wick away moisture. Even the straps and uppers are gently cushioned, proving that beauty and comfort can, indeed, walk hand in hand. It’s not just about comfort, though. It’s about performance. Ballistic nylon-wrapped heels prevent the all-too-common nicks and scratches that plague traditional leather-wrapped designs. Reinforced heel tips and durable outsoles provide lasting wear, while high-performance foams inside create a cloud-like walking experience—even in fourinch stilettos. This isn’t merely footwear; it’s footwear engineering.

Disrupting the Industry From the Inside Out

Much like her success with Thinx, Dunbar approaches the shoe industry with the same feminist-forward, solution-oriented mindset. Her design philosophy is deeply rooted in empathy— creating for real women with real needs. The brand’s very existence challenges a fashion industry that’s long been dominated by men, prioritizing aesthetics over actual user experience.

“Beautiful shoes were notoriously painful, and comfortable shoes were unacceptably unattractive,” Dunbar said. “I dreamed of a better way.” And Dunbar didn’t just dream—she delivered. With styles like Emma Jane, the All Occasion and Jacqueline, Antonia Saint NY redefines wardrobe staples with fashionforward silhouettes and couture-quality craftsmanship. Each pair is handcrafted in Spain by expert artisans who work with luxury houses, but the price point remains surprisingly accessible— another core value for the brand.

Form, Function and Future-Focused Sustainability

Science and Tech Meet Runway-Ready Designs

For style and comfort in one chic package, consider the Tina Party Heel—an on-trend kitten heel from Antonia Saint NY’s latest strappy sandals collection. Designed to keep up with allday events, these shoes are where fashion-forward design meets innovative comfort technology—offering the feel of sneakers in a silhouette worthy of the runway. From rooftop soirées and city strolls to wedding receptions, the Tina Party Heel is built to be your new go-to. A bold 3.5-inch block heel offers balance and support, while a refined toe strap and sculptural shape add elegant flair. Available in black, gold, jute nappa and black patent leather, this style delivers high fashion without the designer price tag.

Step into sophistication and ease with the stunning Vida Half D’Orsay Pump—a modern twist on a classic silhouette, designed for both statement-making style and unexpected comfort. Featuring a sensual arch cutout and an artfully sculpted topline, this shoe effortlessly blends edge and elegance. Perched on a 90-millimeter angled heel, it’s crafted from soft, high-quality materials and built with advanced comfort technology that cushions each step with surprising support. The pointed toe and sleek, low-cut vamp lend a refined, elongating effect, while the gentle curves enhance the natural lines of the foot for an empowering, feminine stride. Available in striking shades like karma snakeskin emboss, black patent leather, jute nappa leather and classic black nappa, the Vida isn’t just stylish—it’s inclusive too, with sizes from 4 to 13 in narrow to extra-wide widths, ensuring every woman finds her flawless fit.

A Feminist Footprint in Fashion Tech

Beyond the technology and design, Antonia Saint NY is equally committed to ethical and sustainable production. While many companies still treat sustainability as an afterthought, it’s baked into the very foundation of this brand. Dunbar and her team work with responsibly sourced sheep and lamb leathers for softness and biodegradability, and balance their lines with microfiber vegan leathers, ultra-suede and low-impact textiles when possible. The brand is moving toward carbon neutrality by focusing on longevity over excess, utilizing stronger materials that reduce the need for frequent replacement and actively seeking better practices across the supply chain.

Shoes That Fit—Finally

Another major point of innovation? Fit inclusivity. From split sizing and wide-width options to the in-house fit quiz that guides customers to their ideal pair, Antonia Saint NY refuses to accept the industry standard of “one width fits all.” The company even offers custom, made-to-order options for those who fall outside traditional size charts. Because at the end of the day, what’s the point of beautiful shoes if they don’t fit—or if they hurt?

Antonia Saint NY is not just a footwear brand—it’s a movement. It’s a declaration that women shouldn’t have to suffer to look powerful. It’s proof that fashion and functionality are not mutually exclusive. And it’s a wake-up call to the industry that innovation, when led by empathy and backed by technology, can transform even the most entrenched categories. In an era where fashion tech is racing forward with smart fabrics and AI-generated garments, Antonia Saint NY is reminding us of the most critical innovation

Antonia Saint NY is reminding us of the most critical innovation

So, the next time you slip into a pair of heels that feel more like sneakers (but look like runway magic), remember: It’s not just

WACOAL LAUNCHES INDUSTRY-FIRST EVERFLEXING BRA THAT FLEXES ACROSS SIX SIZES

Wacoal America announced the launch of the EverFlexing underwire bra, a first-of-its-kind innovation engineered to flex across six traditional sizes, redefining how women experience support, comfort and fit.

Designed in response to the realities of women’s ever-changing bodies, the EverFlexing bra meets the moment for those experiencing everything from hormonal shifts and pregnancy to menopause and the effects of weight-loss medications. Rather than forcing women to adapt to a fixed size constantly, this bra flexes with them, delivering lasting comfort and a reliable fit through every phase of life.

“With EverFlexing, we set out to design a bra that keeps up with women’s lives,” said Miryha Fantegrossi, SVP of merchandising and design at Wacoal America. “As women, our bodies are ever flexing; even a change of just seven pounds can impact bra size. Our EverFlexing bra adapts with you, instead of forcing you to fit into a static size.”

Key product features include:

• Proprietary flexible underwire that supports a range of cup sizes

• Four-way stretch fabric for adaptive comfort and recovery

• Five-row stretch hook-and-eye closure for customizable adjustability

• Adjustable, dual-position straps for a personalized fit

• Full coverage, two-ply seamless cups for a smooth silhouette

The launch underscores Wacoal’s continued commitment to innovation, performance and prioritizing women.

“In 2025, Wacoal America is celebrating our 40th anniversary,” said Mitch Kauffman, president and CEO of Wacoal America. “Throughout our journey, our focus has always been to provide women with the highest quality and best-fitting bras to help them feel and look their best. Product innovation is a key part of that mission, and the EverFlexing bra is a bold example of how we’re meeting the changing needs of today’s woman.”

Photo

NRGY BY REVO LAUNCHES CXN_01 COLLECTION UNDER J BALVIN’S CREATIVE DIRECTION

Revo continues to build its new design-focused line, NRGY by Revo, with CXN_01, the first collection with global superstar J Balvin at the helm as creative director.

Stepping into the role of creative director, J Balvin crafts designs driven through innovation. Implementing Revo’s proprietary NASA-based polarized lens tech, this delivers something entirely new. With designs crafted in partnership with Mattias Gollin, a globally recognized creative working across fashion, culture and performance branding, the pair create eyewear that lives at the intersection of quality engineering and future forward expression.

Subtle details, such as visible screws or the logo—which symbolizes three atoms colliding to unleash energy—are all nods to the direct link between NRGY’s brand identity and the first collection. CXN_01 presents 10 unique designs, drawing inspiration from the tools used to study the unknown. Topics like quantum entanglement, dark matter flows, planetary resonance—topics that move beyond the known—are the foundation of this collection: a collection that investigates the invisible architecture that connects us all, every particle, every fragment of space.

“Design has always been a passion for me. When I met Mattias [Gollin] I realized we shared the same obsession. We collaborated on our own custom glasses designs just for fun. But people began to ask about them, and how they could get a pair,” said J Balvin. “So we went looking for a partner who supported our vision and understood the importance of innovation. That led us to Revo, a company known for revolutionary tech with their NASA lens tech, some of the best lens technology you can find. So here we are. Bringing this vision to life is a dream come true.”

Pronovias Presents the SEPARATES CAPSULE COLLECTION

A Mix-and-Match Line With a Contemporary Vision

Pronovias, a leader in bridal fashion with over 100 years of history, presents a new capsule: the Separates Collection. This revolutionary proposal allows brides to mix and match every piece, offering endless possibilities.

Specifically designed for the modern bride, this new Pronovias concept breaks the traditional rules of bridal wear to offer a transformative experience. It gives brides the freedom to create a unique, personalized and versatile bridal look through interchangeable garments. The collection includes a curated selection of ready-to-wear pieces— corsets, skirts, tops—that can be mixed and adapted for different moments, from the ceremony to the celebration, and even reused beyond the big day.

Each garment is handcrafted in the Pronovias atelier, blending haute couture craftsmanship with a forward-thinking approach to bridal wear. The collection features exclusive fabrics like floral-printed organza and fully sequined tops.

The Separates Collection is more than just a bridal line—it’s a statement of style and empowerment. It invites brides to break the mold, blend the traditional with the unexpected and celebrate individuality through infinite, memorable combinations.

With this collection, Pronovias reaffirms its commitment to accompanying every woman on one of the most important days of her life—offering not just a dress but the freedom to create a look that reflects her true essence.

BREAK THE MOLD

...

, blend the traditional with the unexpected and celebrate individuality through infinite, memorable combinations.

— Pronovias —

Photos courtesy of Pronovias

Femmy Gala

SAVE THE DATE

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

The Glasshouse

660 12th Avenue,

NYC

Featuring the Twenty-second Annual Student Design Contest “Intimately Reimagining Sport”

DEBRA HAZEL

Debra Hazel Communications

North Las Vegas, Nevada

201-618-5247

Enjoy the last days of summer with some recent retail and dining openings, and look forward to more fun in the fall!

All About Apparel and Accessories

It’s back! Brooks Brothers has returned to lower Manhattan with a 10,000-square-foot flagship at 195 Broadway (once the headquarters of AT&T). Free People is relocating its Union Square store to a new space at 79 Fifth Ave. Contemporary sportswear brand Madhappy has come from Los Angeles to 207 Mulberry St. Destination XL Group Inc., a specialist in big and tall men’s clothing and shoes, has opened at Hanover Commons in East Hanover, New Jersey. Nordstrom debuted a Nordstrom Local branch at 154 N. 7th St. in Williamsburg. The format operates as a “neighborhood hub,” with no apparel stock but offering services including order pickup, alterations and manicures.

To Your Health and Beauty

Life Time will open a 52,000-square-foot “athletic urban country club” at 10 Bryant, directly across from Bryant Park and the New York Public Library, in early 2027. The four-level club will feature a co-ed wet suite with steam rooms, saunas, hot tubs and cold plunges, a co-working space and an expansive workout floor.

DEB’S RETAIL DISH AND DEALS: NOT SO LAZY DAYS

By Debra Hazel

Dossier, which calls itself “the perfume house for the next generation,” launched a flagship boutique at 242 Elizabeth St. in NoLita. The boutique features the brand’s full catalog across the Dossier Impressions, Dossier Originals and Dossier Home lines. Stretchlab, a stretching services provider, has signed a lease at Jasper, a mixed-use project in Long Island City, Queens. The agreement is the 10th retail lease at the complex, securing a 100% retail-leased status for the retail component of the building.

Cold plunge and infrared sauna studio SweatHouz (SWTHZ) has opened at The Metropolitan, Garden Communities’ new luxury mixed-use community, located at 92 Millburn Ave., at the nexus of MillburnShort Hills and Springfield.

Wining and Dining

New York City welcomed its first-ever Buchette del Vino, a historic Florentine wine window reimagined for the heart of Times Square, this June. It serves Italian wines through a custom-designed, street-facing window on Broadway between 43rd and 44th streets. Alongside the wine pours, guests can find espresso, gelato, draft beer, salads, panini and tramezzini, as well as a pasta of the month, made with high-quality Italian ingredients and care from a team with 40 combined years of Michelin star experience.

Cafeena Coffee House has taken space at 738 Broadway. SoBol, an acai bowl chain, and the bakery Brooklyn French Bakers have signed leases for 41 Flatbush Ave. in Brooklyn. Fluffy Fluffy, an all-day café known for its soufflé pancakes and savory delights, opened its global flagship at 153 First Ave. in the East Village. In a first for the brand, the New York flagship also features a dedicated cocktail bar. Nothing Bundt Cakes is set to join Flemington Marketplace in Flemington, New Jersey. The bakery will occupy 1,750 square feet at the 239,000-squarefoot community shopping center.

Look for two new restaurants from SK Hospitality Group later this year at 25 Broad St.: a pan-Asian concept on the ground floor and Bueno Kitchen and Bar, a Latin fusion eatery, in a former bank vault on the lower level.

That’s Entertainment

Topgolf broke ground on a three-level venue at 1269 Route 46 in Parsippany, New Jersey, which is set to open in the summer of 2026. This will be Topgolf’s third venue in the state, joining existing locations in Mount Laurel and Edison. Little Big Hospitality, an experiential retailer focused on families, signed a 45,000-square-foot lease at 50 Columbia Heights in Brooklyn.

Around the U.S.

Oofos, a maker of active recovery footwear, opened its first brick-and-mortar retail experiences across the U.S. at Pentagon City in Arlington, Virginia; the Mall of Georgia in Buford, Georgia; and the Florida Mall in Orlando, Florida. Catalog at Willis Tower, the 300,000-square-foot, five-story dining, retail and immersive-entertainment experience located within the base of the Chicago tower, has signed leases with popular eateries Cava, Mendocino Farms and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.

Childcare provider Chunky Cheeks Kollege Too is coming to Morrell Plaza on Frankford Avenue/Route 13 in Northeast Philadelphia, expanding its footprint in the region. The new Morrell Plaza location will offer safe and nurturing all-day care for infants and young children, along with a before- and after-school program for children up to age 13. Nordstrom Inc. announced plans to open new Nordstrom Racks in Flower Mound, Texas; Suwanee, Georgia; and Pompano Beach, Florida through fall 2026.

TWO SHOWS ONE DESTINATION

August 18–21, 2024

Join us at Las Vegas Apparel in August for our co-located market with WWIN (Womenswear in Nevada). Explore top brands’ latest trends, designs, and collections, including young contemporary and premium women’s lines. Our partnership offers exceptional amenities for buyers and an easy-to-shop, unified show floor. Take advantage of our Sunday opening ahead of most fashion week events!

Save the date for August 2024 and learn more about Womenswear in Nevada at WWINshow.com.

Register Now at LasVegas-Apparel.com

The Expo at World Market Center 435 S. Grand Central Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89106

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DAVID HAROUCHE

STRATEGY WITHOUT EXECUTION IS JUST TALK

By David Harouche

in the numbers. Operational efficiency is another area that is impacted. Stores spend hours copying corporate news into huddles, relocating binders or redownloading outdated presentations. Execution is not a one-and-done. It is the margin between failure and success.

The Real Challenges Behind Execution Gaps

A gap between strategy and execution often shows up as poor communication flow, as corporate emails go unanswered, problems get overlooked and store teams scramble without clarity. There are also issues of out-of-sync training, when associates aren’t confident in product messaging or policy updates without instant, on-the-floor instruction. Lack of task visibility is another challenge, as daily must-dos like restocking, signage updates, compliance checks—or worse, cleanup protocols—get lost in the chaos of a busy shift.

of a promotion, the first morning of a product drop or a key customer event. Corporate teams must identify these pivotal moments intentionally. Once identified, content should be created specifically for those moments—concise training bites, topline reminders, and clear do’s and don’ts—to build associate confidence and clarity before they even clock in. Delivery is just as critical; it shouldn’t require a new platform but rather flow through a channel associates already use daily, where training, communication and tasks converge seamlessly. Finally, measuring performance outcomes ensures effectiveness. Leaders should ask: Did the associate complete the training module before opening? Was the new product properly featured in-store? Did they gather customer feedback? Execution becomes measurable, repeatable and impactful.

These questions shift leadership from hope to fact.

Today’s retail landscape demands more than the smartest playbook; without achieving execution, strategy remains mere strategy.

Many major retailers spend months developing annual campaigns, meticulous store layouts, product rollouts, seasonal promotions and grand reopening plans. These plans are crafted by internal teams carefully aligned with leadership. They’re polished, compelling, even inspiring.

But if frontline teams aren’t equipped and aligned at shift level, those “big ideas” often disappear into binders, dusty intranet pages or unread emails. Results fall far short of expectation, and that’s not what we want an operations budget to drive.

Execution: The Hidden Revenue Driver

Think about your last product launch. Stores received product shipments, shelves were restocked, promotional signage was applied. But did store associates have quick, mobile access to information about why the item matters, how to sell it and who to contact if issues emerged? If not, what stays on the shelf quietly impacts several factors, including the customer experience, because messages and product positioning get diluted, creating an inconsistent in-store experience. It also affects sales performance; since there is no sell-through data and frontline input, missed opportunities show up

Aligning the Floor With the Strategy

Leading retailers are closing the training and execution gap by rethinking how their frontline teams access and engage with information. Instead of lengthy 45-minute sessions, they’re slicing training into bite-sized modules that can be delivered via mobile devices that enable associates to learn in the flow of work, whether through a quick two-minute video on a new promotion or a 60-second quiz on brand heritage.

Task tracking is also going digital, moving away from outdated paper checklists and scattered email reminders. A centralized mobile task list provides real-time visibility, allowing for time stamps, comments and completion confirmations that promote accountability and measurable results. Finally, communication is no longer relegated to weekly emails or printed memos; it’s embedded into daily operations. Updates now arrive through platforms store teams already use and are integrated into their daily routines, whether during morning app check-ins or shift change conversations, making key information timely, actionable and impossible to miss.

From Strategy To Store, Intelligently

Moving strategy into execution isn’t a mystery— it’s a deliberate process that starts by defining the moment of execution. This could be the launch day

Execution Isn’t Just Operational, It’s Cultural What happens on the sales floor isn’t just a reflection of training and process, it’s a reflection of culture. When communication is unclear and tasks go unsupported, disengagement follows. But when expectations are communicated clearly, tools are intuitive and feedback loops are active, engagement increases. Execution becomes part of a company’s culture when associates feel supported, store managers are empowered to lead with confidence and data, and every team member understands that each task, from restocking to greeting a customer, contributes to a larger brand promise.

In this way, execution is no longer an afterthought. It becomes the rhythm that sustains performance and consistency across every store, every shift.

Founder, CEO and Chief Technology Officer, Multimedia Plus

FRANK DELUCIA

Hub International frank.delucia@hubinternational.com 212-338-2395

EMPLOYEE CULTURE’S PIVOTAL ROLE IN BENEFITS

By Frank DeLucia

An organization’s culture, its employees’ emotional connection to it, and the power of the right benefits to support the culture are crucial to engaging employees and ensuring long-term success. “Organizational culture” may be an overused phrase, but culture and the employer-employee connection it generates has become a part of recruitment, retention and having the right benefits to engender long-term loyalty.

How important are culture and connection within an organization? It can make a major difference in candidate interest and employee satisfaction with an employer:

• Mentioning culture in job postings increases engagement with the listing.

• Nearly one-quarter of employees say they’ll leave if they’re not happy with an organization’s culture.

• Keeping workers in the communication loop helps them remain motivated and engaged.

Culture and connection are important elements in building a benefits strategy based on quality employee experiences, or QEX. This approach emphasizes the experience that employees have with the organization, and how benefits can improve the quality of those experiences.

The Power of the Right Benefits To Support Employee Culture in the Workplace

The importance of culture and connection is magnified by its role in an employee’s experience with benefits. Using technology and analytics, employers must understand the needs of their employees, particularly the needs of individual employees. Leaders can benefit from understanding what elements make up their organization’s culture, and simply recognizing what their culture actually is.

For example:

• “Caring” cultures emphasize a familial environment and will offer family-centric benefits. Such a culture could cover costs for fertility treatments, surrogacy services and adoption.

• “Learning” cultures put an emphasis on personal and employee development, through education, development plans, consistent employee evaluations, educational

reimbursements and sabbaticals.

• “High-performance” cultures are all about delivering value on time and under budget, whether that’s to customers, internal clients or vendors. These cultures make benefits robust, easy to choose and not overly complex. A common misconception is that employees love their work, the company and its brand, but employees are often connected to their teams and teammates more than the organization itself.

Understanding the difference is important. Organizations should focus on strategies that reinforce the connection with teams or alter it with benefits that deliver on QEX’s promise. Ultimately, organizations should examine their employee culture in the workplace and determine what makes it that way, rather than imagining their culture as something it is not. Here are some best practices on evaluating and strengthening culture:

• Organizations should assess their cultures and see how well they are connecting to employees. This can require an honest evaluation of what a leader believes the cultures to be versus what it truly is.

• Through analytics and data collection like surveys and focus groups, organizations need to understand where employees are at, professionally and personally. This should inform the nature and strength of their relationship with the company and point the way to benefits that strengthen connection.

• Organizations should consider benchmarking against other organizations that have fostered similar cultures, which can help identify benefits that align with the organization’s culture and improve connection.

Frank DeLucia currently serves as executive vice president of Hub International Northeast, a leading full-service global insurance brokerage. With over three decades of experience, Frank specializes in building insurance and risk management programs for the real estate and apparel industries, and is a long-time active member of the Fashion Service Network (FSN). For more information on Hub, visit hubinternational.com.

WORKING CAPITAL THAT KEEPS YOUR PEOPLE WORKING.

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THRIVE IN 2025

2025 MARKET DATES

Atlanta Apparel

February 4–7

April 1–4

June 3–6

August 5–8

October 14–17

Atlanta

February 4 – 7, 2025

Las Vegas

February 9 – 12, 2025

Las Vegas Apparel

February 9–12

August 17–20

Formal Markets

Atlanta

April 1–3

August 4–8

Top: Skirt and top: Milio Milano, Earrings: Uncommon Fashion, Belt and Bag: Lori Veith

Bottom: Dress: Therapy w/Lisa Adams, Blazer: Reeves & Co., Sunglasses: FREYRS, Necklaces: Yochi, UnCommon Fashion,

Chair: Currey & Co.

Explore, connect, and shop with us in 2025! As seasons change and trends evolve, keep your inventory fresh with sourcing opportunities throughout the year. Atlanta and Las Vegas Apparel Markets offer unmatched hospitality, complimentary amenities and exclusive access to top lines.

April 1–4

#atlapparel #shoplva @apparelmarkets @formalmarkets

Register Today at

Atlanta-Apparel.com LasVegas-Apparel.com

Open exclusively to the trade.

April Buying Week

This new event merges Atlanta Apparel, Formal Market, and Spring Market at AmericasMart (Gift & Home) for a comprehensive sourcing experience.

PICKS

1. Reformation: Sara Linen Dress in Parmesan

This 100% linen dress is fitted in the bodice with a column skirt that ends at midi length. The muted yellow fabric also features a white scalloped trim along the edges, adding subtle detail to the minimalist silhouette.

$ 278 | thereformation.com

2. Kayali: Vanilla 28, 100 milliliters

Kayali Vanilla 28 is a rich, deep gourmand vanilla scent that features notes of musk, amber, patchouli and brown sugar. It can be worn alone or layered for an even richer scent.

$138 | hudabeauty.com

5 EDITOR’S

3. Staud: Ollie Bag in Black

Constructed from polished leather and featuring interlocking two-tone hardware along the strap, this mini shoulder bag is an elevated take on the little black purse.

$250 | staud.clothing

4. Color Wow: Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

This anti-frizz spray is the perfect accessory for hot, humid summers. Suitable for any hair type, it leaves a smooth and glossy fi nish without weighing the hair down or leaving a greasy feel behind.

$28 | colorwowhair.com

5. Dolce Vita: Cleo Heels in Off-White Satin

This heel pairs a dramatic silhouette and structural kitten heel with a luxurious satin upper, creating a timeless yet modern mule that can be dressed up or down.

$110 | dolcevita.com

6. Rag & Bone: Miramar Sofie Wide-Leg Pants

These pants are created using a special Rag & Bone printing technique known as Miramar, which gives the cotton terrycloth material a denimlike appearance. With belt loops, front pockets, a zipper and a button closure, they feel like a pair of sweats but look like a pair of jeans.

$258 | rag-bone.com

MEET JILLIAN TESSLER

Female Founder, Business

Thought Leader and Forbes 30

Under 30 Honoree

Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree Jillian Tessler founded her brand, Jillies Dress Weights, in 2020 after one too many fashion emergencies on her New York City subway commute. While maintaining a full-time job, Tessler built the product— lightweight, reusable weights that stick to the hem of skirts and dresses—and launched her own website fot it. She recognized an issue that has been a common experience for all women and developed an effective solution. The weights keep everything perfectly in place against the wind, and are both a clever and practical fashion solution. Jillies Dress Weights stay in place all day and are packaged in a small carrying case, perfectly fitting in every purse.

Founding a company during the pandemic brought many challenges. At the forefront, Tessler was exhausted. After hitting burnout, she began exploring a slower, more mindful approach to business—and now shares how other founders can embrace that too, by focusing on building ventures that are purposeful, user-focused and rooted in real-world value. Along with running her business, Tessler has a passion for collaborating with aspiring founders to help them turn their ideas into reality. Her biggest piece of advice to entrepreneurs is to focus on themselves and remember that business isn’t a race, it’s a marathon.

Tessler works with founders on their startups, providing teams, tools and capital to assist with their ventures. She is a successful female founder who shares her experience and expertise on entrepreneurship, mindfulness, avoiding burnout and using accessible AI tools to grow a business without getting overwhelmed. Her advice for founders: Be someone who knows when to put their own ideas aside, truly listen to what their customers want and need, and take immediate action to make that happen.

Tessler has been commended for her work in consumer technology as a female founder and businesswoman. Throughout her career, Tessler has made significant contributions to endeavors in media, retail and startup fields. She collaborates closely with the founders from day zero, helping shape everything from the business model to team building, product development and market strategies. Tessler shows founders how to ensure their businesses are structured and designed for long-term success. She works with founders to launch products and businesses that consumers really want. By validating business concepts prior to launching them through customer interviews and surveys, Tessler teaches founders how to really uncover customer insights, so they truly imagine a product that solves a problem.

Photo courtesy of H&M

Photos courtesy of Jillies Dress Weights

MANA FASHION Elevates

Miami Swim Week Through Strategic Partnership With Colombiamoda and SwimShow

retail

Mana Fashion made waves at Miami Swim Week through dynamic partnerships with SwimShow and Inexmoda—celebrating the next generation of swim and resort wear, reshaping the retail landscape and spotlighting the powerful rise of Latin American fashion in Miami.

Mana Fashion took center stage at this year’s Miami Swim Week through impactful partnerships with Colombiamoda, the leading platform of Colombian fashion authority Inexmoda and long-standing U.S. swim and resortwear tradeshow, SwimShow. These alliances came together to spotlight the next generation of swim and resortwear designers, while positioning Miami as a global gateway for Latin American fashion.

As part of its partnership with Inexmoda, Mana Fashion launched the first-ever Colombiamoda Miami—a dynamic, three-day activation that brought 20 of Colombia’s top emerging brands into the U.S. wholesale market. Brands such as Anthia, Tinta Latina, Bless HS, Mayorga, Plissé and Simona showcased refined collections through curated experiences that drew industry leaders, innovative brands and a global community—all in celebration of Latin American creativity and commerce.

“Our partnership with Colombiamoda reinforces our longterm strategy to position Mana Fashion Services as a central player in global fashion trade,” said Matilda Kalaveshi, head of fashion, Mana Fashion Services. “By connecting international talent with U.S. buyers, we’re building a platform that supports visibility, growth and long-term success.”

Mana Fashion also collaborated with Malva, a multibrand concept store, to launch Malva Online in the U.S., featuring a dedicated Colombiamoda section. This effort bridged wholesale and retail by giving consumers direct access to curated Latin American brands and reinforcing the commercial viability of international talent.

Through these initiatives, Inexmoda reaffirmed its mission to create global opportunities for Latin American designers— offering business training, market access and strategic partnerships that enable long-term brand development.

Alongside Colombiamoda, Mana Fashion made its official debut at SwimShow, marking the start of a new collaboration focused on highlighting exclusive labels, breakthrough designers and e-commerce-ready brands. Mana Fashion brought a fresh perspective to the tradeshow floor by showcasing standout collections from a range of brands featured in its Biscayne Showroom, including Dur Doux, Noblesse Oblige, 04651, Ele Collection, Lina Lemus, Laino, Ania Designs and Sijam Sleiman.

The showroom’s inviting and intimate setting became a hub of activity during SwimShow, fostering meaningful connections and generating strong retail interest across the board.

The launch of Mana Fashion’s Biscayne Showroom at its Biscayne Bay Building in May 2025 paired with its debut during SwimShow further cements Mana Fashion’s commitment to building infrastructure that supports the future of fashion retail. Through strategic partnerships and thoughtfully curated experiences, Mana Fashion continues to connect global talent with key U.S. markets.

Together, Mana Fashion, Colombiamoda and SwimShow are creating a powerful new framework for how emerging designers are discovered, distributed and celebrated—starting with Miami.

Photos courtesy of Mana Fashion

LIM College Acquired by Japan Educational Foundation

THREADING A NEW GLOBAL PATH IN ELEVATED FASHION BUSINESS EDUCATION

By Daniella Platt, Consumer Behavior Expert (and LIM Adjunct Professor)

Photos courtesy of LIM College

Stylishly weaving together LIM’scontinuedevolution as a global leader in fashion and lifestyle business education, LIM College and the Japan Educational Foundation (JEF) announced an agreement under which JEF will acquire LIM College.

Announced on May 29, 2025, LIM will remain independently operated in New York City while becoming part of JEF’s prestigious international portfolio, which includes four professional universities, one online university and nine professional training colleges in Japan, as well as two higher education institutions in Paris, with multiple campuses across France.

As a member of the LIM College faculty, this was a fitting opportunity to chat with President Ron Marshall to gain deeper insight.

HOW DOES THE ALIGNMENT WITH JEF STRENGTHEN LIM’S RESOURCES?

“As part of JEF, LIM will have an expanded global platform and access to additional academic capabilities and financial resources. This agreement further positions LIM as the global leader in education for the business of fashion and lifestyle, delivering superior results for our students, alumni and the industry.”

WHY JEF? WHY NOW?

“LIM College, over its 86 years in operation, has always evolved to reflect the times and what is best for students in terms of preparing them for careers in the fashion business.

“While exploring how we could expand our global academic partnerships and opportunities for students, we connected with JEF. When the opportunity to become a part of JEF came about and we realized all the positive ramifications of it, the LIM board of directors closely studied the opportunity and decided to move forward with it. This represents an important step toward LIM’s vision as the global leader in education for the business of fashion and lifestyle.”

This moment is a bold step for LIM, honoring the founder’s legacy while stitching innovation into a globally connected future of fashion business education. Students can look forward to the future of tailored opportunities, academically and globally.

LIM will retain its name, campus and leadership. No staffing or faculty changes are planned. Note that the acquisition transaction will become buttoned up and final only once approved by higher education regulatory agencies.

JEF was founded in 1966 by brothers Masaru and Toshihiko Kasuya and has grown from a fashion-focused institution into a major international provider of specialized education in fashion, technology and medical services. Its portfolio includes Esmod, the

LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT DOES THIS OFFER THE LIM COMMUNITY MOVING FORWARD?

“Becoming part of JEF is an exciting next step for LIM that will bring several benefits. With the financial resources, academic acumen, global reach and industry connections of JEF behind us, LIM will be an even stronger institution to serve students, alumni and industry partners. For example, we expect to be able to accelerate the addition of new areas of fashion-related studies and broaden our global industry connections for career-building internships and learning experiences. We also anticipate being able to leverage JEF’s curricular expertise in technology to enhance our courses.”

I also spoke to Yoshinori Yamashita, a director of JEF, who added, “We look forward to bringing LIM into the JEF portfolio and realizing the tremendous advantages that LIM’s location in the center of New York City will bring students around the world.”

esteemed French fashion school with global reach, and Creapole, a Paris-based school offering training in product design, architecture and creative disciplines.

Founded in 1939 and located in Midtown Manhattan, LIM College is focused on the global business of fashion and lifestyle. Offering master’s, bachelor’s and associate degree programs, LIM prepares students for career success via an immersive approach grounded in real-world experience and “learning by doing.” Alumni have gone on to work for Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, the TJX Companies, Financial Times, Ulta Beauty, Microsoft, Saks Fifth Avenue, Michael Kors, Nike and countless others. To apply, or for more information, visit limcollege.edu.

Pre-Register

OCTOBER 21-24, 2025 | JANUARY 20-23, 2026

EXCLUSIVE DETAILS FOR SHOWS IN:

• Dallas

• Denver

• Las Vegas

• Los Angeles

• Nashville

• Orlando

• New York

MANN’S

CONNECTING THE FASHION INDUSTRY WITH THE WORLD OF TRADESHOWS

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Four Visionary Brands Illuminated the Paraiso Miami Swim Week Runways With

INNOVATION IDENTITY EMPOWERMENT

Luli Fama, Shan, Salty Mermaid and Sigal captured Paraiso Miami Swim Week 2025 with unique creativity and artistic vision.

Paraiso Miami Swim Week 2025 delivered a spectacle of creativity and style as standout brands, including Luli Fama, Shan, Salty Mermaid and Sigal, unveiled their latest resort and swimwear collections in a series of unforgettable presentations. Each brand brought its distinct vision to life, sharing a collective commitment to bold femininity, global inspiration and mindful fashion. Luli Fama showcased sultry silhouettes and vibrant prints that captured the essence of Latin flair. Shan presented an elevated approach to luxury

resort wear with tailored lines and serene color palettes. Salty Mermaid embraced playful prints and body-positive designs. Sigal redefined swim chic with intricate details and modern textures. Together, these collections celebrated the evolving narrative of swimwear, embracing confidence, sustainability and cultural storytelling.

Discover the full story behind each brand’s inspired collection and what makes it stand out below.

LULI FAMA: RADIANT GLAMOUR AND LATIN SPIRIT

cover-ups and radiant prints, while Spring ’26 turned up the glamour with shimmering fabrics and sultry cuts, perfect for luxe getaways.

Luli Fama lit up the Paraiso runway with its Cruise ’25 and Spring ’26 collections in a vibrant show titled “La Diosa del Agua.” Opening with a high-energy dance performance, the Miami-based brand showcased its signature mix of Latin flair, bold colors and striking silhouettes. Cruise ’25 evoked tropical wanderlust with breezy

Already a celebrity favorite, Luli Fama cemented its global swimwear status with pieces designed to empower confidence and self-expression. With boutiques in Lincoln Road, Doral and Las Olas, Florida, the brand continues to dominate resort wear with fierce femininity and fearless style.

Photos courtesy of Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Photo courtesy of Paraiso Miami Swim Week

SHAN: TAILORED SOPHISTICATION FROM CANADA’S COASTLINES

rendered in tones like obsidian and sandy white that echoed natural elements.

SALTY MERMAID: BOLD DEBUT WITH MOB WIFE POWER AND ETHEREAL EDGE

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Canadian luxury brand Shan presented its Cruise ’26 collection with an elegant runway show that reflected serene, refined coastal fashion. Designer Chantal Levesque brought her couture sensibility to resort wear with delicately tailored pieces in silk, mesh and jersey Lycra—

Shan’s minimalist yet sensual designs stood out for their craftsmanship and subtle detail, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for slow fashion and sustainability. With over 40 years of heritage, Shan now brings its elevated resort wear to U.S. clientele via boutiques in Miami Beach and Palm Beach, as well as top retailers, including Saks and Nordstrom.

Salty Mermaid made a powerful debut at Paraiso Miami Swim Week with a see-now, buy-now runway show that highlighted its creative range. The show opened with the

Mob Wife collection, featuring glam tortoise prints, gold beading and glossy textures in bold red, black and metallics—channeling power and confidence.

It closed on a softer note with the Under the Sea capsule, showcasing sun-washed tones, shell-like fabrics and dreamy crochet textures. Alongside strong visuals, Salty Mermaid highlighted its values of sustainability through recycled materials, zero-waste accessories and inclusive sizing—marking its debut as both bold and conscious.

SIGAL: DESERT DREAMS MEET FEMININE ARTISTRY

Rounding out the week’s standout presentations, Sigal delivered a breathtaking showcase of its Resort ’26 collection, Mirage, at an intimate event held at the DiLido Beach Bar at The RitzCarlton, South Beach. Known for hand-painted prints and evocative storytelling, designer Sigal Cohen Wolkowiez brought her vision to life with a

From Luli Fama’s Latin celebration to Shan’s refined coastal elegance, Salty Mermaid’s empowering statement pieces, and Sigal’s artistic storytelling, Paraiso Miami Swim Week 2025 showcased a diverse and powerful vision for the future of resort fashion. These four brands didn’t just present clothing, they created experiences rooted in empowerment, sustainability, culture and personal expression.

sun-drenched tribute to the spirit of the American Southwest.

Each piece was adorned with hand-painted watercolor prints created in Sigal’s Miami studio, blurring the lines between fashion and art. In addition to the runway, Sigal hosted a pop-up and showroom experience, reinforcing its commitment to creativity, sustainability and soulful storytelling. Mirage will launch in late 2025.

As the global spotlight shines brighter on Miami’s fashion stage, Luli Fama, Shan, Salty Mermaid and Sigal are each redefining what it means to be bold, feminine and fashion-forward in 2025 and beyond.

Photos courtesy of Mark Gunter/Getty Images

Photos courtesy of Mark Gunter/Getty Images

Photos courtesy of Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

SwimShow Wrapped Its Summer Edition on Miami Beach

As the longest-running swim and resort wear trade show, SwimShow returned to the iconic Miami Beach Convention Center to kick off Miami Swim Week from May 31 to June 2. The market shift to June marked a pivotal move in the global swim and resort wear industry, positioning Miami as the official launchpad for the season. SwimShow maintained its reputation as an inclusive platform for brands representing diversity in design, sizing, price point and lifestyle.

This year’s show celebrated a season of innovation and connection, with hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their Spring and Resort 2026 collections to buyers from top retailers worldwide. The lineup featured established favorites like Gottex, Body Glove, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Natori, Red Carter and Rio de Sol. New additions included Turkish resort and accessory collections Nefes, Jaquette and Taka. From Colombia, labels such as Mar de Lua, Aguamaria and Ola Azul joined, while newcomers Arun and Cupshe brought their latest lines to Miami.

With New Collaborations, Industry-Led SwimTalks and Over a Dozen Countries Represented

Two standout spaces elevated the show floor experience. Mana Fashion Services brought its Biscayne Showroom, a Miami-based concept spotlighting both domestic and international collections year-round. The roster of brands included Noblesse Oblige, 04651, ELE Collection, Lina Lemus, Laino, Ania Designs, Sijam Sleiman and Dur Doux, unveiling luxe collections and bespoke pieces, further cementing Miami’s position as a global fashion hub. Additionally, the Made in Rio space highlighted emerging Brazilian brands such as Das Meninas Infantil, Nidas, Constantinopla, Zille Rio and Falesia Carioca.

Recognizing the importance of partnerships in driving industry growth, SwimShow fostered strategic collaborations that extended beyond the show floor. These alliances created new opportunities for brands to expand their reach, access emerging markets and build connections.

Photos

SwimLab x WGSN

For the fourth consecutive year, SwimShow partnered with WGSN to present the SwimLab Incubator Program, a dedicated space for four emerging swimwear brands leading in sustainability and innovation. This year’s spotlighted brands included:

• Palmeri, a sustainable swimwear brand inspired by ocean life and active living, was founded by a surfer and free diver. Designed in Galveston, Texas, and handmade in Colombia, the brand blends performance with effortless style.

• Lola Baia, founded by sisters Georgia and Daisy, is a British swimwear brand that draws on 1960s glamour, sustainability and timeless style. Ethically made in Portugal, each piece uses 100% sustainable fabrics.

• Milo, created in Uruguay by friends Marina and Antonella, designs classic styles made in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul using zero-waste full fashion knitting techniques.

• Maia, a Miami-based brand known for its minimal swimwear with bold elegance, is handmade by women in Brazil. Maia pieces feature clean lines, sculpted details and premium materials.

SwimTalks

This year’s SwimTalks set the stage for fresh ideas and meaningful conversations at SwimShow. The series of panels were held during the first two days of the show. SwimTalks presented a curated lineup of influential voices who provided insightful perspectives on the dynamic swimwear industry. The series opened on Saturday, May 31, with “The Future of Retail Starts Upstream: AI, Strategy and Smarter Selling,” offering a forward-looking perspective on technology’s role in transforming the retail landscape. Later that afternoon, attendees explored upcoming design directions for Spring/Summer 2026 and 2027 in print and styling trends.

On Sunday, June 1, the program continued with SwimLab x WGSN Emerging Brands in the Industry. After that, sustainability took center stage, with Colombia’s Sustainable Fashion Playbook examining how collaboration between policy, industry and brands is propelling the country’s global influence. The weekend concluded with FGI South Florida Presents: Designed in Miami Swim and Resort Edition, a vibrant celebration of local creativity and design excellence in the swim and resort wear space.

As always, SwimShow transformed every moment into a launchpad for the next wave of swim and resort wear fashion creativity.

What to Shop

What to Shop at Las Vegas at Las Vegas

MMGNET Group, the global fashion ecosystem connecting brands, retailers and trendsetters, has released a robust lineup of resources to guide buyers as they get ready for Project, Magic and Sourcing at Magic in Las Vegas in August.

Among these resources is MMGNET’s latest Spring/ Summer 2026 trend program, comprised of trend reports, digital sessions and a series of buyers’ guides, all of which offer a close look at what trends are set to have a major moment in the industry for the upcoming buying season.

These resources range from highlighting larger themes to specific key items, providing a full trend journey— from macro- to microtrends—to help inform your purchasing decisions just in time for market.

In the trend reports, MMGNET highlights four macro-design aesthetics set to influence both men’s and women’s fashion: Vibrant Escape, Avant Craft, Elemental Flow and Future Classics. Each brings a unique narrative rooted in broader cultural shifts like global travel, heritage craftsmanship, elevated comfort and romantic minimalism.

Fueled by a renewed love for travel and destination dressing, Vibrant Escape showcases how vacation style and everyday life meet.

For menswear, Vibrant Escape is all about the integration of experience-driven apparel into everyday wear. This includes expressive prints, breathable fabrics and silhouettes that prioritize ease. Camp collar shirts, openwork knits and breezy lounge pants in classy tropical jewel tones like teal and deep coral offer versatility set to elevate your assortment. MMGNET encourages buyers to look for pieces that enable layering amid the heat, with lightweight materials in shirts and pants, openwork knit styles and loose-fitting silhouettes.

Neutral-toned decorative shirts, rustic totes, paneled denim shirts, soft suede boots, patch pocket-work pants and textured shorts all ground this trend.

For womenswear, Avant Craft speaks to heirloomquality warmth. Pieces in this category feel handmade and cherished, including crocheted tops, lace-trimmed camis, midi dresses and soft layering knits. MMGNET recommends choosing assortments with chunky coastal cardigans, tapered jeans, vacation shorts, beaded strap sandals, statement camis and lace midi dresses, which encourage this feel.

The third design aesthetic is Elemental Flow, a trend that captures the soft, romantic energy that is gaining traction in apparel and accessories. In menswear, the trend celebrates summer’s fluidity through pastel color palettes and subtle, luxe textures. Long, flowing silhouettes create a dreamy yet sleek look that is wearable from day to night.

Elemental Flow in womenswear favors longline slip dresses, wide-leg trousers and breezy button downs in lightweight fabrics. While the palette is a delicate pastel, the styling is confident through statement sets, cover-ups and occasion tops. Structured miniskirts, illusion tanks, gathered Bardot blouses, bloomers, sheer ballerina flats and draped maxi dresses are also prime examples.

Closing out the list is Future Classics, focusing on a modern take of comfortable dressing. Future Classics bridges the gap between activewear and everyday style. With the rise of popularity in country club aesthetics and a continued demand for versatile fashion, this trend pushes buyers to rethink the modern uniform.

In menswear, preppy polos, rounded frames, oversized boxy shirts, chunky derbies, tailored sport shorts and track jackets are the go-to items to accomplish this look. These are outfits that can go from the tennis court to brunch, or from a casual office setting to a weekend away. Womenswear follows a similar pattern, with a focus on classic essentials elevated through subtle pattern play and revamped basics. Examples include nostalgic beachside prints, cotton blends and linens, breezy dresses and skirts, as well as soft denim and the subtle use of gingham.

On the women’s side, Vibrant Escape leans into saturated hues and effortless pieces. Bright slip dresses, elongated shorts, knits, maxis and tropical prints paired with neutrals make this trend feel grounded and wearable, allowing the consumer to dress for both beachside mornings and downtown walks. The trend is playful, effortless and ideal for brands that are looking to introduce statement separates in bold tropical prints and a happy mix of stripes and souvenir graphics into their product lines.

While Vibrant Escape is all about bold expression, Avant Craft favors a quieter, more soulful aesthetic. This trend leans into a heritage-heavy craft with artisan textures and natural palettes, offering a new take on bohemian style with a minimalistic side.

In menswear, Avant Craft is driven by traditional craftsmanship and earthy tones. Included in this category is knitwear with chunky weaves, traditional styles and a neutral-driven palette.

Together, these four design aesthetics offer a clear look at where fashion is headed for Spring/Summer 2026. MMGNET’s detailed trend reports provide the industry with a clear picture of this season’s macrotrends. Discover how these trends also translate across specific market segments through MMGNET’s buyers’ guides, which aid buyers in turning these larger concepts into a shoppable strategy. As the industry gets ready for another season, MMGNET’s trend program gives retailers insight on what’s to come.

Photos courtesy of MMGNET

ATLANTA APPAREL AND FORMAL MARKETS

PRESENT CROSS-CATEGORY SOURCING THIS AUGUST

SPRING RESORT, CHILDREN’S AND FORMALWEAR

TAKE THEStage

Andmore’s August wholesale events at AmericasMart Atlanta present the largest apparel and formal sourcing opportunity of the season. This cross-category offering features around 3,200 brands, spanning young contemporary, contemporary, resort, holiday, accessories, children’s and formalwear, alongside immersive trend education, curated category experiences and hallmark amenities.

“Both Formal Markets and Atlanta Apparel are gaining strong traction heading into August, with excitement building around our semiannual Formal Markets and dedicated Children’s Floor,” said Caron Stover, Andmore SVP, apparel. “From bridal and quinceañera to contemporary apparel and accessories, Atlanta continues to deliver a dynamic sourcing experience that meets the evolving needs of our buyers.”

New brands at the August Atlanta Apparel Market include Alex and Ani, Color of Heat LLC, Designs by GG Decatur LLC, Duffield Lane, Edite Showroom, Hype and Vice, NeroGiardini USA Inc., OOG Fashion GmbH, Rylee B and Sunday Edition by Le Lis. Expanded showrooms this market include Gentle Fawn, Milio Milano, Reeves & Co. (featuring Queen of Sparkles), Style Consortium, Sorrelli Jewelry, and Vaccarelli & Associates. Notable temporary exhibits include Blu Pepper, Bruno Menegatti/Carrano/ Love Rio, Dansko LLC, Risen Jeans, Sorel and Thread & Supply.

Atlanta Apparel Presents Semiannual Children’s Pavilion

Atlanta Apparel Set to Showcase Big Brands and New Names

Atlanta Apparel continues the momentum of Autumn/ Winter 2025 buying alongside early Spring/Summer 2026 order writing, with over 480 permanent showrooms and more than 210 temporary exhibits across 10 floors of Building 3. In addition to resort, holiday and immediate offerings, the August edition will highlight new, expanded and notable brands across key categories.

The semiannual presentation of children’s resources on Floor 13 returns, with over 55 showrooms presenting Spring/Summer 2026 collections alongside a nearly sold-out Children’s Pavilion showcasing some 15 temporary exhibits, with new lines added daily.

This August, the Children’s Floor presents expanded spaces for Kimberly Jones & Co. and Lulu Bebe, and new resources for Baby Loren and Saltwater Boys Co. Notable temporary lines include Asserín Asserán, Emanuel Pris, Kiah, MeetMarie and Rise Little Earthling.

Bridal, Prom and Quinceañera Shine at August Formal Markets

Formal Markets brings together over 180 bridal, prom, quinceañera, evening, wedding party and accessories lines across three floors.

New and notable additions to Formal Markets this season include a third expansion for showroom Ashleylauren; a new location and expansion for Jessica Angel; and the debut of Starielle from designer Danielle Vlahos. Veni Infantino’s Bridal and Social collections will now be represented by Putnam Enterprises. In the temporary exhibits, several lines are making their Atlanta debut:

Atelier Nicola D’Errico, Filiarmi, Le Blanc, Unbranded by Diane D’Angelo, Ricca Sposa—showcasing its Atelier and Love collections— and Bianco Evento, showcasing its European bridal collection in the U.S. for the first time.

“I’ve been in the bridal industry for 29 years with many happy brides across Europe. Every time American buyers visit us, they’re excited by our quality, pricing and aesthetic,” said Bartosz Wodecki, founder and CEO of Bianco Evento. “Buyers have been asking us to come to the U.S., so we’ve partnered with the experienced Coterie White team. They encouraged us to make our U.S. debut in Atlanta—a market that draws influential buyers from across the country who are the right fit for our brand.”

Additional returning favorites in The Collective include Bariano Australia, Carla Ruiz Spain, Emily Shalant, Filiarmi, Janique, Sachin & Babi, Teri Jon and The Dessy Group.

The Accessories category features offerings from Diverse Style by Sydni Dion, Boomba, De Blossom Collection, enVogue Bridal Accessories, Stefanie Somers, Advance Packaging, Design by Conception, Fortune Dynamic, Lasting Memories and White Gem Designs. Notable returning brands include Atria, BCBGMaxAzria, Chandalier, Halston, Helsi, House of Avid, MNM Couture, Nicoletta and more.

Atlanta Apparel and Formal Markets Engage Buyers and Brands Across Market

With both Atlanta Apparel and Formal Markets in full swing, this August edition offers a robust schedule of daily events, brand activations and more designed to energize and inspire. From trend-forward giveaways and live music to can’t-miss celebrations and networking opportunities, the combined market presents a dynamic environment for buyers to connect

Photo courtesy of Andmore

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Finally

a Swimsuit That Feels as Good as Your Favorite Seamless Underwear

For decades, women have accepted discomfort as a given when it comes to swimwear, with digging elastic, awkward seams and a “just don’t move too much” mentality baked into every suit. While fashion has evolved, swimwear stayed behind. And as the market continues to become saturated with “trendy” swimwear brands, very few are doing anything truly new when it comes to fit. What women have wanted all along, Onewith has delivered.

It took founder Hayley Segar years to pinpoint what felt so off about traditional swimwear. There was a major disconnect between how swimwear fit compared to the rest of her wardrobe, especially her no-show underwear, which always felt flattering. It wasn’t until she was sitting on the floor of her apartment, staring down a pile of swimsuits that all claimed to be “flattering,” when she had her aha moment. Frustrated with digging seams and squeezing elastic bands, she blurted out the sentence that would change her life: “I just want a swimsuit that fits like my favorite no-show underwear.”

From that spark came the foundation of Onewith, the first-ofits-kind swimwear brand that delivers exactly what women have been asking for all along: swimwear that doesn’t dig, squeeze or compress. Swimwear that fits like your favorite underwear.

Unlike traditional swimsuits that often prioritize trends over functionality, Onewith was built on real engineering and empathy. Instead of mimicking what’s always been done, Segar flipped the formula entirely. The result? A completely new category of swimwear. Onewith’s patented construction uses bonded, raw-cut edges that lie flat against your skin; no bulky seams, no rigid elastic, no harsh compression. The fit conforms to your body, creating a personalized, ultrasmooth fit that stays in place without digging in.

The innovation isn’t just in the construction, it’s in the philosophy. Onewith doesn’t try to force bodies into shapes or silhouettes. It meets you exactly where you are. Onewith changed swimwear so that women don’t feel the need to change themselves. There’s no squeezing, pinching or readjusting. Just freedom to move, relax, swim and live in your body without discomfort.

The sizing is also refreshingly inclusive, with styles offered from XXS to 4XL. As someone who has experienced weight fluctuations her entire life, Segar designed Onewith to create a universal experience of ease and confidence. It’s not about creating a “slimming effect” or hiding “problem areas,” it’s about removing the friction (literally and metaphorically) that so often comes with wearing a swimsuit.

Photos courtesy of Ioana Alexandrescu

Onewith’s constructionpatented uses bonded, raw-cut edges that lie flat against your skin; no bulky seams, no rigid elastic, no harsh compression.

The name Onewith isn’t just catchy branding, it’s a mission. Each suit is designed to be one with your body: to move with you, not against you. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, paddleboarding or chasing kids on the beach, you won’t be distracted by your suit shifting or digging in. And with no elastic band cutting into a specific spot, there are no odd bulges or lines, just your natural shape, uninterrupted.

When you first slip into Onewith, there’s even a bit of brand magic involved. “Warm it up,” as the company says. All Onewith swimsuits are lined with a smooth, flexible inner grip strip which keeps the raw-cut, edgeless suit up without using traditional seams or elastic that cuts into the skin. It’s because of this inner grip strip that you’ll need to give your Onewith flattering swimsuit a stretch before each wear. A little side stretch, a few moments of wear, and suddenly it molds to your body like it was custom-made for you. It’s smart, thoughtful design that delivers on comfort in a way no other brand has.

Today, as the swimwear market continues to fill with new labels touting “trendy” styles, few are doing anything truly original when it comes to construction and comfort. That’s where Onewith stands apart. It isn’t about louder prints or bolder cuts, it’s about finally fixing the thing women have been quietly complaining about for years: the way swimwear feels. Onewith is a true category creator. With no direct competitors and a clear mission, the brand isn’t just playing in the swimwear space, it’s rewriting the rules.

Segar continues to build on her mission, reminding women everywhere that it was never your body, it was the swimsuit. And now, with Onewith, you don’t have to settle. You can finally have a suit that looks good and feels amazing.

Because yes, swimwear that fits like your favorite seamless underwear does exist. And it’s about time.

Going Back to With JanSportSCHOOL IN STYLE

2025 collection. These items are designed to meet the

As students across the country prepare to return to school this fall, JanSport has unveiled its Back-to-School 2025 collection. These items are designed to meet the diverse needs of modern-day students of all ages. With a blend of function, fashion and inclusivity, the new product offerings include: the Liminal series, the Hatchet series, the Clear Pack collection, the Retro series and the forward-thinking Adaptive series. This year’s collection is about giving students gear that empowers them to express themselves and move confidently through the school year. This collection builds on JanSport’s legacy of reliability while pushing into new territory with thoughtful innovation.

Designed with the college hustle in mind, JanSport has

Designed with the college hustle in mind, JanSport has created the Liminal series. Built for college life, these styles deliver next-level organization with minimalist aesthetics. Featuring modular compartments, laptop sleeves and hidden tech pockets, the Liminal backpacks are perfect for navigating lectures, internships and campus life in style. Sustainability is also at the forefront for this series, with each pack crafted from 100% recycled materials.

Keeping high schoolers in mind, the Hatchet series is designed to hold the students’ everyday essentials. With its rugged utility and sleek silhouette, the Hatchet backpack is set to be a favorite among high schoolers. The Hatchet series blends storage and style with roomy compartments, padded shoulder straps and quickaccess tech sleeves, perfect for a high schooler’s busy and demanding day.

Additionally, as schools continue to adopt clear bag policies, JanSport’s Clear Pack collection offers a rulecompliant solution without sacrificing style. Made from durable, high-clarity PVC with reinforced stitching and padded straps, these transparent backpacks are perfect for students who want clarity with personality.

It’s nostalgia, reimagined for today’s classrooms.

For students who want a vintage vibe mixed with modern function, the Retro series pays homage to decades of JanSport classic silhouettes with modern upgrades, such as internal laptop storage and water-resistant finishes. It’s nostalgia, reimagined for today’s classrooms.

In 2024, JanSport launched its Adaptive series to offer bags for those who use mobility devices. For this back-to-school season, JanSport is continuing its commitment to inclusive design with the Adaptive series, thoughtfully engineering bags that are made with and for these students in an expanded array of colors and patterns. These items feature one-handed closures, easy-grip zippers, magnetic buckles and wheelchair-compatible sizing all in the same fun prints and colors of the entire collection.

Whether it’s starting freshman year or entering graduate school, JanSport’s Back-to-School 2025 collection ensures every student has a backpack that meets their needs—and matches their identity. The full collection is available at jansport.com.

Photos courtesy of JanSport

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