GRUNGECAKE

Category: Fashion

  • Kanye West launches new collection in support of forthcoming ‘Bully’ album

    According to the comms, Ye’s fans could also pre-order his upcoming album, ‘Bully’.

    [media-credit name=”X” link=”https://x.com/PopCrave/status/1849107434859569217/photo/1″ width=1170 align=”none”][/media-credit]

    If you haven’t seen Ye and his wife, Bianca Censori, on the 2025 GRAMMY red carpet, you’re sleeping. Amidst several exciting moments of the day, the Chicago-bred global superstar walked the glorified red carpet with his significant other. After possibly receiving a cue from her man, Bianca dropped her large fur coat to the ground for a photo opportunity that would forever stay in the minds of people with eyes and good vision. Later that evening during the awards ceremony, the musical genius and legend released a commercial for his new YZY collection designed Gosh Rubchinksiy. The minimalist clip featured sweatshirts, t-shirts, and shoes, all for $20, feeling like an early Christmas gift for die-hard Ye fans.

    Take a look at the commercial that aired during Music’s Biggest Night.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voBZkF_NBEA&h=315]

  • Daily Paper to close New York City flagship store amid financial hurdles

    Daily Paper, the Amsterdam-based fashion brand renowned for its Afrocentric design influences and storytelling, has announced the closure of its flagship store in downtown New York City. The decision, driven by financial hurdles, marks a bittersweet moment for a brand that has successfully carved a niche in the global streetwear and luxury markets.

    [media-credit name=”Alec Kugler/Daily Paper” width=850 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    A bold venture meets economic realities

    The store, opened to much fanfare, symbolised the brand’s ambitious foray into the United States market. Positioned in one of the most vibrant retail districts, the location was an opportunity to connect directly with the brand’s American fanbase, which has grown significantly in recent years. However, as the company revealed, low revenue and mounting operational costs have made it unsustainable to keep the location open.

    Despite its popularity among fashion enthusiasts and influencers, the store struggled to achieve the financial performance needed to sustain its presence in a competitive retail environment. This mirrors broader challenges faced by many independent and mid-sized brands navigating high rents, fluctuating foot traffic, and post-pandemic consumer behavior shifts.

    The vision behind Daily Paper

    Founded in 2012 by Abderrahmane Trabsini, Jefferson Osei, and Hussein Suleiman, Daily Paper quickly gained a reputation for its distinctive aesthetic, which blends African heritage with modern streetwear trends. The brand’s rise has been fueled by its commitment to community and cultural storytelling, resonating with a diverse and loyal customer base worldwide.

    The closure of the New York City store is a setback but does not diminish the brand’s significant impact on fashion culture. Over the years, Daily Paper has collaborated with major names like Puma and gained visibility through celebrities who align with its values.

    Moving forward

    In a statement, Daily Paper expressed gratitude to the New York community for their support, assuring fans that this is not the end of their journey in the United States market. While the physical store is closing, the brand remains focused on e-commerce and alternative retail strategies to continue serving its customers.

    This pivot reflects a broader trend in the fashion industry, where brands increasingly prioritise digital experiences and pop-up events to engage with consumers while minimising overhead costs.

    A reflection of industry trends

    Daily Paper’s story underscores the volatility of the retail landscape, particularly for emerging and independent brands. As economic pressures mount and consumer habits evolve, even highly creative and culturally significant brands are finding it challenging to maintain physical stores in prime locations.

    The closure of the New York City store is a reminder of the importance of adaptability and resilience in a fast-changing market. For fans and fashion insiders, the hope remains that Daily Paper will continue to thrive in other capacities, staying true to its mission of celebrating identity, culture, and community.

    This chapter in the brand’s history, though difficult, is likely to fuel its next phase of innovation and growth, keeping the Daily Paper spirit alive.

  • Miss America pageant’s operating company files for bankruptcy

    According to Bloomberg, Miss America Competition LLC owes an estimated four million dollars. The company seeks protection from its creditors, based on a filing made in the United States Bankruptcy Court District of Florida (West Palm Beach Division) on November 22. The business has faced difficulties maintaining cultural relevance in a post-feminist world. The Miss America pageant, as of now, is still scheduled between December 31, 2024, and January 5, 2025. Madison Marsh of Colorado will crown her successor, as the court ruled the pageant could continue operation with the ongoing litigation.

  • Kith announces new collaboration with Giorgio Armani

    [media-credit name=”X” link=”https://x.com/RonnieFieg/status/1828862063931998422/photo/1″ width=900 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    In an unprecedented move, American fashion and lifestyle brand Kith announced its highly-anticipated collaboration with Giorgio Armani, one of the world’s most celebrated Italian menswear designers, on a “suit project”. In a post on X, Kith’s creative director and founder, Ronnie Fieg, celebrated his “North Star” (Giorgio Armani) and his team for helping him bring the idea to life.

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    As a fellow founder and a creative person, I can say it is freeing to work towards and have your wildest dreams crystallise. Therefore, we are excited to see what they deliver when the time is right.

    As described online, Kith is an American fashion and lifestyle brand established in New York City in 2011 by Ronnie Fieg. The brand began as a footwear retailer and later expanded to streetwear and fashion. Whenever you get the chance to visit New York City, visit one of the stores. It is a calming experience, as the shops are often clean and filled with natural light.

    If you are on a strict diet, you may want to stay far away from their delicious treats section. My favourite was the Action Bronson flavour: The Marshmallow Man. It is toasty charred marshmallows, chocolate-covered graham crackers, and creamy vanilla ice cream mixed to create a beautiful smoky-flavoured ice cream. It is topped with a chocolate graham cracker dipped in toasted marshmallow and a sprinkle of Maldon salt.

    There are also shops in Europe, Canada, Seoul, Hawaii, and Tokyo, but I haven’t visited.

  • Givenchy opens flagship store on Rodeo Drive, originally designed by Frank Lloyd Wright

    [media-credit name=”WWD” link=”https://wwd.com/business-news/retail/givenchy-west-coast-flagship-rodeo-drive-anderton-frank-lloyd-wright-1236513123″ width=1000 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    Making its highly-anticipated West Coast debut, Givenchy has opened its first permanent flagship store on Rodeo Drive. The Parisian luxury brand enlisted the late famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s design for the original building with historic character. There are separate entrances for men’s and women’s collections, ready-to-wear pieces, accessories, some items designed for the Los Angeles flagship store, and more.

    Regarding the specs, “The store’s design preserves the building’s historic character while infusing Givenchy’s signature style. Original features, including diamond-scored concrete ceilings, red floors and two fireplaces, have been meticulously restored. The space blends sharp industrial elements with soft natural materials, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. An archival tiger print fabric, once used by Hubert de Givenchy in his home, adds vibrant pops of color to upholstery and stairwells.”

    About the accomplishment, Valerie Leon, the President of the Americas at Givenchy, zeroed in on the significance of the location: “Given Hubert de Givenchy’s love of art and architecture, the Frank Lloyd Wright building felt like the right choice, and the opportunity to bring Givenchy to life there was inspiring.”

    It is at 332 North Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California, in the famous 90210 area code. According to the report on WWD, the full showing will come in early 2025.

  • HairPod, a podcast breaking stigmas surrounding hair loss

    [media-credit name=”Courtesy” width=1000 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    Hair Club for Men, Ltd, Inc. (“HairClub” or the “Company”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tokyo-based Aderans Co Ltd (“Aderans”), the world’s leading provider of total hair loss solutions, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest venture—a weekly podcast called HairPod. This podcast features guests from all walks of life sharing their personal hair loss stories and life-changing experiences. HairPod aims to break the stigma surrounding hair loss and foster honest conversations about the topic.

    “Hair loss affects many people, but it’s not always discussed with the same openness and acceptance. With HairPod, we want to change that. We want everyone experiencing hair loss to know that they are not alone”, says Jonelle John, VP of Marketing at HairClub. “We want to create a safe space for individuals to share their stories and help others who may be going through a similar journey.”

    The podcast delves into the journey of overcoming hair loss and embracing transformations with courage. Featuring candid and heartfelt stories from ordinary people to public figures, each episode seeks to dispel the negative connotations associated with hair loss by showcasing those who have overcome this challenge and are now living their best lives.

    HairClub invites listeners to join the conversation and become part of a supportive community dedicated to changing the narrative around hair loss. By shedding light on this often-sensitive topic, the podcast aims to empower individuals to embrace their unique transformations and find strength in their journey.

  • Rihanna becomes the face of Dior’s J’Adore fragrance

    [media-credit name=”Instagram” link=”https://www.instagram.com/p/C8XHsxkupyg/?img_index=1″ width=821 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    Rihanna, the Bajan billionaire with power and influence, has officially announced that she is the face of Dior J’Adore. Her inaugural campaign launches this September “in a bid to reinvigorate the flagship fragrance range,” according to Business of Fashion. Everyone on her social media profiles is asking for the album, but I think if she is to drop one, it would be a surprise release or when we all least expect it. She has not announced her retirement, so we all have hope.

    [media-credit name=”Instagram” link=”https://www.instagram.com/p/C8XHsxkupyg/?img_index=2″ width=822 align=”center”][/media-credit]

  • Banana Republic opens flagship store in SoHo, New York City

    [media-credit name=”Courtesy” width=768 align=”center”][/media-credit]

    Banana Republic, a Gap Inc brand, unveiled its revitalised New York City flagship store. Located in the heart of the SoHo Cast Iron Historic District, at 552 Broadway, between Prince and Spring Streets, the space has been redesigned in collaboration with renowned architect and interior designer Noa Santos, of NAINOA, and creative advisor Jacqueline Schnabel as a premium expression of Banana Republic.

    Featuring an elevated store design and retail experience, architecture and art become an immersive surround sound for the brand’s fashion and home collections. Shoppers are invited to discover Banana Republic’s high-quality women’s and men’s ready to wear and accessories—from sustainably sourced cashmere to European flax linen to exclusive vintage pieces from the Banana Republic archives. And new to the SoHo store is the addition of BR Home, including furniture, lighting, and other home goods.

    The store will also offer a range of premier services designed to enhance the Banana Republic shopping experience, from custom tailoring and personalised concierge and styling services. Spanning 17,000 square-feet and two stories, the store is a cultural curation of the brand’s ethos of modern exploration – from art and sculptures, to books and decor.

    Gap Inc. Creative Director Zac Posen shared, “It was a special experience to collaborate with Noa Santos, Jacqueline Schnabel and the in-house Banana Republic team to curate an incredible SoHo Flagship experience that celebrates the brand’s heritage with a modern point of view through immersive experiences across fashion, art, global culture and more.”

    A reflection of the brand’s elevated aesthetic rooted in rich storytelling and exploration, the store boasts luxe materials like travertine, brass and Venetian plaster, and an incredible array of art and artistry, including an installation by Mexico-based artist Angela Damman, known for using sustainable handmade textiles made from regenerative native plant fibers. Throughout the store, customers will find a variety of other artworks that will be rotated seasonally in partnership with Schnabel – the first of which includes a bespoke chair, wall hanging artwork, and hammock displayed amid lush greenery in the entry area and windows.

    Self-expression comes to life at the Banana Republic SoHo store where premium lifestyle and personalised shopping experiences span two floors.

    First Floor Highlights:

    The first floor showcases women’s collections and accessories, offering a seamless shopping experience for linen, cashmere, denim, occasionwear, and soft dressing from day to night. Additionally, the floor features suiting, art, and global artisan products.

    Exclusive Banana Republic’s vintage surplus offerings from the ’80s and ’90s are available for purchase, ranging from $55 to $1,200.
    Further storytelling is in the BR Classics Cashmere section, where guests can experience our products and learn about our sustainability-focused brand story. The rotunda designed by Angela Damman, features a one-of-a-kind chandelier, anchoring the first floor with travel, discovery, and maker stories.

    Jacqueline Schnabel hand-picked beautiful items for purchase, including books on travel, food, art, music, architecture, interior design, pottery from BR Home and Cote Bougie scented candles from Morocco.

    Second Floor Highlights:

    The second floor includes men’s collections and accessories include leather, suede, denim, linen, cashmere, occasionwear, and a suiting shop with on-site tailoring services. It also features the BR Home Penthouse Apartment and Banana Republic Bespoke Services.

    The BR Home Penthouse Apartment is a three-room space that serves as the first BR Home showroom in New York City. The BR Home Design Studio is an interior design styling service led by expert stylists from Banana Republic’s Home team, available by appointment.

    Banana Republic Bespoke Services offers personal styling, tailoring and alterations, gift boxing, local delivery, and more. Customers can also book a VIP room for special events. Exclusive to the SoHo flagship, on-site product embroidery allows garments to be customised with a monogram, message, or motif, creating unique heirlooms.

    Artwork featured throughout:

    Hand-carved wood sculptures by Chuck Manion and Jonathan Shlafer;
    Art sculptures by Vince Skelly and Jinsik Yoo;
    Photography by McDermott & McGough and Jessica Craig- Martin;
    Ceramics by Brooklyn artist Jane Yang D’Haen known for designs inspired by her Korean heritage; and
    Paintings by Roland Allmeyer, Nobuyoshi Araki, Michael Campbell, Jesse Edwards, Phoenix Falcon, Rhys Gaetano, Jessica Craig-Martin, McDermott & McGough, Peter McGough, Lola Montes, and Gary Tenenbaum.
    *Inquiries for purchasing any of these pieces can be made in-store.

  • Beautycon LA postponed due to COVID-19 concerns

    Beautyconis the latest event to be postponed amid widespread fear and panic due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The LA convention, which normally consists of influencer meet and greets, makeup sales and giveaways, and celebrity appearances, is now being pushed to December. Other major events, including Coachella, have been postponed. California Governor Gavin Newsom has called for the cancellation of gatherings of more than 250 people. Attendance for Beautycon has historically been around 20,000.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B9nSPeEncKi/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

  • Donatella Versace donates €200,000 to COVID-19 relief efforts

    Donatella Versace is the latest celeb to donate funds to relief efforts fighting the ever-spreading coronavirus. The virus has taken the world by storm and has heavily impacted Italy, which is Donatella Versace’s country of origin. Her and her daughter, Allegra, are donating €200,000 to a Milan hospital. Other designers, including Giorgio Armani and luxury group LVMH have also donated to relief efforts in both Italy and China.

    View this post on Instagram

    ❤️🇮🇹

    A post shared by Donatella Versace (@donatella_versace) on

    //www.instagram.com/embed.js