The Accelerators: The leaders fueling established companies’ catapulted growth Nili LotanFounder, CEO and designer For Nili Lotan, who’s owned and operated her namesake luxury fashion brand for nearly 20 years, 2022 was “a year of growth.” “Despite everything going on in the world, I’m proud that we’ve continued to go...

The Accelerators: The leaders fueling established companies’ catapulted growth Ryan VeroCEO, Claire’s Since joining 60-year-old Claire’s as CEO in mid-2019, Ryan Vero has focused on evolving the accessories company “from the mall’s biggest retailer to a global brand powerhouse,” he said. That’s included expanding the company’s global retail footprint, both...

The Changemakers: The disruptors driving values-based industry evolution Albert AyalFounder and creative director, Up Next Designer Through the Instagram account Up Next Designer, public relations veteran Albert Ayal has established a global stage and launchpad for emerging designers. The account, which has garnered nearly a quarter million followers, has leveled...

The Changemakers: The disruptors driving values-based industry evolution Ben BarryDean of fashion, Parsons School of Design So much for fashion schools lagging. After years of fashion media reporting outdated teachings at the top fashion schools — particularly due to their lack of focus around designing for extended sizes, prioritizing sustainability...

The Changemakers: The disruptors driving values-based industry evolution Corey SmithHead of diversity and inclusion, N.A. Head of diversity and inclusion was a new position at LVMH when Corey Smith stepped into the role in September 2020. However, he’s quick to note he’d been in talks with the company about potentially...

With short-form videos dominating Americans’ screen time, largely in the form of TikToks, brands across price tiers and categories have increasingly leaned into the opportunity. In response, social platforms specializing in other content formats have rolled out features accommodating the trend. YouTube’s Shorts is proving worthy of brands’ focus, even...

Since the start of the pandemic, health and wellness have come to the forefront of consumers’ minds, driving changes to longstanding behaviors. In sync, a variety of brands with a wellness slant and accessible supply chain have been popping up, increasing competition in the market. Now, established health and wellness...

“I’m sure the brands are not super happy that we’re creating a greater level of accessibility, which goes against their exclusivity goals,” said Seth Weisser, co-founder and CEO of What Goes Around Comes Around. “But it’s the way forward.” 

Fashion brands are overhauling their pre-pandemic store strategies, in response to new consumer habits and business needs.