Armani, Gucci Face Labor Scandals & Zendaya x On Unveil New Sneaker in This Week’s Top Fashion News

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Summary

  • The Armani Group has been fined $4 million for misleading sustainability claims and illegal labor practices, while 1,000 unionized Gucci employees are threatening to strike over unpaid welfare incentives. In more optimistic news, Ralph Lauren saw a 30% rise in net income for Q1 2025, leading the company to raise its fiscal year outlook despite global economic uncertainty.
  • Zendaya has co-created a new footwear model called the Cloudzone Moon with Swiss brand On, while Marc Jacobs released the new ’72 Spring Sneaker, a Y2k-inspired tech runner.
  • Icelandic brand 66°NORTH celebrated its upcoming 100th anniversary with an immersive exhibition at Copenhagen Fashion Week, showcasing its history, SS26 collection, and century-old repair initiative.

The Luxury Labor Crackdown: Armani Fined $4 Million USD For Greenwashing

In simpler terms, Italian authorities have penalized the Armani Group with a fine of approximately 4 million US dollars due to false advertising about their ethical and social responsibility standards. The fine follows a 12-month investigation into unethical activities, where it was discovered that Armani outsourced production of leather goods to companies disregarding health and safety rules and employing undocumented workers. Armani contests these allegations and plans to contest the ruling. This move is an ongoing initiative in Italy to ensure luxury brands adhere to fair labor and manufacturing practices.

Gucci In “State of Unrest” As 1000 Employees Threaten to Strike

Workers from Gucci, who are members of unions such as Filcams Cgil, Fisascat Cisl, and Uiltucs in Italy, have announced they’re unhappy (or in a state of unrest) and may go on strike. Around 1,000 employees in retail and logistics are involved. The reason for their discontent is that their corporate parent, Kering, hasn’t fulfilled promised welfare bonuses for the years 2022 to 2024. This controversy arrives at a crucial moment for Gucci, as they’ve been facing a significant decrease in sales. Moreover, this incident joins a series of similar labor issues plaguing other leading luxury brands within the industry.

Zendaya Debuts Her First Co-Created Silhouette With On

In a fresh collaboration, actress Zendaya teams up with shoe brand ON for their new project called “Be Every You.” This partnership introduces a novel footwear model, the Cloudzone Moon, which is Zendaya’s debut in co-creating a sneaker design with the brand. Additionally, the release includes an activewear collection designed by both Zendaya and celebrity stylist Law Roach, reflecting their longstanding creative partnership. The campaign film, helmed by Bardia Zeinali, showcases Zendaya styled by Law Roach, delving into the concept of accepting one’s multiple identities. The Cloudzone Moon sneakers can now be purchased at ON’s online store and retail locations worldwide.

Ralph Lauren Sees 30% Net Increase in Q1 2025

In Q1 2025, Ralph Lauren Corporation experienced a significant 30% jump in net income. This impressive growth prompted the company to revise its annual forecast upward. The strong sales surge was witnessed across three major regions: North America (up by 12%), Europe (up by 10%), and Asia (up by 18%).

Following this positive news, Ralph Lauren’s shares surged over 3%, building upon the impressive 90% growth achieved in the previous year. This growth can be attributed to strategic price adjustments implemented by the company to counteract the effects of tariff uncertainties and reduced consumer spending.

Despite the robust results, Ralph Lauren remains cautiously optimistic due to potential new duties and the possibility of an inflationary environment.

Marc Jacobs Drops All-New 72 Spring Sneaker

Marc Jacobs recently unveiled their ’72 Spring Sneaker, a modern take inspired by the Y2K era, deviating from the usual flamboyant footwear styles of the brand. This innovative shoe, developed in partnership with Areté studio, boasts a sleek design accentuated by a mesh and technical overlay upper. The collection offers vibrant color schemes, luxurious materials, as well as classic black and white options. Each pair retails for $225 USD and can be purchased from the brand’s website or selected retailers. Interestingly, speculations are circulating that LVMH might be planning to sell off the label.

66°NORTH Celebrates Centennial at Copenhagen Fashion Week SS26

66°NORTH, the Icelandic clothing brand, marked its upcoming centennial at Copenhagen Fashion Week SS26 with an engaging exhibition called “100 Years of Progress. Still Made for Life.” This event displayed the brand’s rich history, their latest SS26 collection, and their dedication to durability using practical demonstrations like a wind machine and GORE-TEX® weather simulator. The showcase also spotlighted their 100-year-old repair initiative by featuring a live repair station and an atelier modeled after their factories. In a statement regarding the event, CEO Helgi Óskarsson underscored the company’s focus on innovation, quality workmanship, and creating garments that endure over time.

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2025-08-08 23:26