M.M.LaFleur's Substack Strategy & the Rise of Editorial Marketing
M.M. LaFleur recently migrated its editorial platform, The M Dash, to Substack, joining a growing trend of brands using newsletters to build community and stay relevant between sales cycles. With over 90,000 subscribers, this approach fuels organic growth, trust, and retention. In this issue of Weekly Staples, we explore why newsletters are essential for brand marketing and how they create long-term engagement.
Blue Jeans & Biscuits: How American Eagle Made Nashville Feel Like Home
In this week’s edition of Weekly Staples, I’m breaking down how American Eagle’s Denim Deli pop-up in Nashville proves that national brands can go local, without losing sight of who they are. From country music and deli sandwiches to denim customization and grassroots flyers, this activation was a love letter to the city’s college crowd and creative community.
Printemps Brings Experiential Retail to NYC
Printemps is redefining what it means to shop in the U.S. with its first American store, opening March 21 in Manhattan’s Financial District. Unlike traditional department stores, Printemps New York will operate more like a luxury hotel, inviting customers to spend the day exploring curated collections, attending pop-ups, and enjoying a Parisian-inspired café. With no immediate plans for e-commerce, the brand is betting on experiential retail to establish its presence. Will this hospitality-first approach resonate with American shoppers?
The Marketing Power of Banana Republic's White Lotus Collaboration
Banana Republic’s latest collaboration with The White Lotus proves the power of experiential marketing. From a transformed Soho flagship event to an immersive digital campaign across Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, the brand successfully blended fashion and entertainment. But was their strategy enough? We break down the impact of their campaign and how future collaborations can keep Banana Republic on the path to growth.
Influencer Strategies Shift, TikTok’s Ripple Effects, and A Seattle Shopping Center in Transition
Significant changes are reshaping the influencer marketing and retail landscapes as we approach 2025. From budget allocations and platform pivots to retail closures in iconic locations, this year promises to be transformative for brands, creators, and consumers alike.
Luxury Meets Strategy: Nordstrom, Saks Global, and the Future of Retail
The retail industry is entering a period of profound transformation, marked by major moves such as Nordstrom’s privatization, the creation of Saks Global, and the evolving role of real estate strategies. Together, these developments underscore the challenges and opportunities facing traditional and luxury retailers.
Pop Up Perfection: What Makes an Event Worth Attending?
If there’s one thing I’m passionate about, it’s a well-executed pop-up event. When done right, these temporary spaces combine fashion, shopping, and a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression. In this newsletter, I dive into the key elements that make a pop-up truly special—from a great location and perfect timing to curated products and exclusive incentives. Whether you’re attending or hosting, here’s what to look for to ensure a successful event.
Independent Fashion Designers Take Pride in Second (and Third) Business Acts
2024 is proving to be the year of independent designers taking a hard look at their business from a longevity standpoint. As quite a few designers closed up shop earlier this year, others are reflecting on how their first attempts at running fashion brands taught them valuable lessons to implement into newer, more efficient versions of their businesses.
Law Roach’s Styling Journey & The Value of Brand Buzz
The BOF Podcast talks to stylist Law Roach about his journey from Chicago thrift seller to renowned stylist, his wise mentor advice, and his exciting new online learning platform for aspiring stylists. Plus, learn how brands are measuring brand “buzz” and how they’re getting their money’s worth from #OOTD.
Vogue Announces Forces of Fashion NYC 2024: Event Details and Insider Tips
Discover all you need to know about Vogue's Forces of Fashion 2024 event in NYC on October 16th. Learn about ticket prices, insider tips from last year's event, and how to save on your ticket as a Vogue Club member. Plan your perfect day with our comprehensive guide!
Independent Fashion Brands Struggle Post-COVID: Closures, Challenges, and the Path Forward
Discover why independent brands like Mara Hoffman and The Vampire's Wife are shutting down, how sustainability and market volatility play a role, and the solutions proposed by industry leaders to support emerging designers. Read more on the shifting landscape of the fashion industry and the steps towards a more sustainable future.
The North Face Closes Flagship Store Amid Broader Retail Trends
Stay informed with Weekly Staples, your go-to source for the latest in marketing, retail trends, and fashion industry news. This week's highlights include YouTube Shorts' rise in the beauty sector, Gucci's new direction under Sabato de Sarno, and Shein's innovative content strategy.
Resurrecting Timeless Fashion: A Met Gala 2024 Recap
Let’s recap the Met Gala 2024 from Zendaya's stunning Maison Margiela creation to Tyla's ethereal Balmain sand dress, Wisdom Kaye’s mesmerizing ensemble, and even AI-generated images that fooled social media. Plus, how luxury items ended up on Walmart.com, creepy AI dupes, and sunscreen for the brown-skinned girlies.
Fashion Retail Trends, Closures, and Met Gala Madness
Explore the latest in fashion retail from store closures to the Met Gala's "The Garden of Time" theme. Delve into the future of malls, Sephora's sustainability efforts, and more. Plus, get insider insights on upcoming events and recent fashion happenings.
The Future of Bellevue Retail + This TikTok Mess
Get insights into Bellevue, Washington’s shift towards "retail-tainment," the pivotal role of The Bellevue Collection, and the transformative impact of transportation infrastructure. Dive into the future of shopping and explore fashion industry updates, including TikTok's uncertain future, Meta's news publisher block, and Nordstrom Bellevue's revamped look.
What’s the Tea with Black Beauty Brands?
Uncover challenges in black beauty brands' journey to sustainability. Learn how diversifying revenue streams and boosting transparency foster progress. Dive into more insights with articles from Essence Magazine and The Business of Fashion, offering valuable advice for beauty entrepreneurs.