Dior Appoints Jonathan Anderson as LVMH Sales Slip in This Week’s Top Fashion News

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This week, we’re seeing luxury groups and traditional fashion labels adjusting their artistic and delivery plans due to economic instability, as the latest trend in the world of high-end fashion unfolds.

Jonathan Anderson has officially taken up his new position at Dior, putting an end to months of speculation following his departure from Loewe. In related news, LVMH, the parent company of Dior, reported lackluster Q1 results, with a decrease in sales that fell short of analysts’ expectations.

In the world of accessories, Ray-Ban unveiled its inaugural collection under the leadership of its first creative director, A$AP Rocky and AMBUSH, a Tokyo-based label renowned for its jewelry, was repurchased by its founders, Yoon Anh and VERBAL.

Amidst these changes, OTB Group (the owner of Jil Sander, Margiela, and Marni) is reassessing its distribution strategy, marking the opening of the first-ever Jil Sander store in Dubai.

Lastly, Louis Vuitton announced the venue for its Cruise 2026 show to be held in Avignon, France.

Hey there fellow gaming enthusiasts! Here’s my take on the hottest fashion news from this past week. Keeping tabs on the latest trends in the fashion world is just another level in this game called life, right? 🕹️👗

Jonathan Anderson Is the New Creative Director of Dior Men/

Beginning April 17th, it was officially announced that Jonathan Anderson would step into the role previously held by Kim Jones as the Creative Director for Dior Homme, following their respective departures from Loewe and Dior in March and January respectively. Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH, has yet to provide further details about Anderson’s responsibilities at Dior or whether he will assume control over the women’s wear department currently led by Italian designer Maria Grazia Chiuri. Speculations suggest that she too may be leaving soon. LVMH confirmed that Anderson’s first Dior collection will make its debut in June.

LVMH Sales Fall 3% in Q1 2025

Last Monday, LVMH unveiled its Q1 2025 report, showing a 3% decrease in sales to €20.3 billion EUR from January to March. According to Reuters, these figures were significantly lower than the anticipated 2% growth, as the conglomerate grapples with the industry-wide sales downturn. Notably, LVMH’s fashion and leather goods sector, encompassing brands like Louis Vuitton, Loewe, Dior, and Fendi, experienced a 5% decrease in sales. On the other hand, the company’s wine and spirits division saw a 9% drop, while perfume and cosmetics sales declined by 1%. The watches and jewelry sector remained stable. The sluggish sales, which similarly impact competitor Kering, have been exacerbated by the Trump administration’s contentious tariffs, contributing to a decrease in consumer confidence.

A$AP Rocky and Ray-Ban Debut “Blacked Out” Collection

Titled “The Blacked Out” Line, A$AP Rocky’s first collection as a creative director for Ray-Ban offers a fresh take on three timeless Ray-Ban designs, incorporating daring modifications and pitch-black lenses. The Mega Clubmaster, the most reminiscent of vintage style, includes gold-toned metal accents on the bridge and lower frame sections. Following this, the Mega Wayfarer, the brand’s most recognized shape, recalls mid-century styles with its full acetate frame. Lastly, the Mega Balorama embodies modernity, resonating with the Y2K aesthetics of today and popular athletic styles. Gold-plated details and an extra AWGE tattoo-inspired emblem, symbolizing Rocky’s creative agency, are common features across each design. Each purchase also includes a unique case adorned with a $1000 bill design inspired by A$AP Rocky.

AMBUSH Founders Yoon Ahn and VERBAL Buy Back Brand From New Guards Group

Tokyo-based fashion label AMBUSH has been reclaimed by its founders Yoon Ahn and VERBAL. They have regained the majority stake from New Guards Group, making them once again the sole owners of their brand. This move comes after Off-White and Palm Angels also left New Guards Group. Yoon Ahn and VERBAL had sold their controlling interest in AMBUSH to New Guards Group five years ago in 2016. In a statement, Yoon Ahn expressed excitement about this new phase, stating that regaining full ownership allows them to fully embody the core values and original vision of AMBUSH. They are now eagerly embracing this new chapter and looking forward to the limitless possibilities ahead. VERBAL, co-founder and CEO, also shared his enthusiasm, highlighting that reclaiming ownership is a significant step that restores their ability to innovate freely and strengthen global connections within their community.

Jil Sander Begins Middle East Expansion With Dubai Flagship

Showcasing an eye-catching transparent glass block exterior, fashion house Jil Sander has debuted its first Dubai flagship store at Mall of the Emirates. This new location is part of a broader expansion strategy in the Middle East over several years, led by OTB Group, which includes Jil Sander, Margiela, and Marni. According to Rosso, speaking with WWD, “Jil Sander stands out because its design, high-quality garments, craftsmanship, and materials are easily identifiable even without the logo. It embodies modernity, sophistication, style, and purity.” The announcement arrives during a period of significant change for the brand. Following the departure of Luke and Lucie Meier earlier this year, Simone Bellotti was named as the new creative director in March. Also worth noting is that Jil Sander was acquired by Renzo Rosso’s conglomerate just four years ago in 2021.

Louis Vuitton Cruise 2026 to Show at Historic Gothic Palace

In May of 2022, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Palais des Papes in Avignon, France, will play host to Louis Vuitton’s newest collection designed by Nicolas Ghesquière. As an added touch, Louis Vuitton will also sponsor a multi-year initiative to light up the facades of key buildings situated in the city’s main squares, such as the Palais des Papes, a cathedral, the Petit Palais, the Hôtel des Monnaies and the Hotel Calvet de la Palun. This structure, built during the late 14th century, served as a temporary seat for the Roman Catholic Papacy and is recognized globally as one of the most significant examples of Gothic architecture.

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2025-04-19 00:04