Swatch x Blancpain

Welcome to the 4th edition of Maximalist! Dive into the ultimate guide, filled with insider insights into the world of fashion, art, real estate, travel, jewelry, and horology.

The world of luxury is never boring, and this week is no exception. Let’s dive in!

Markets

Birkenstock Files for IPO

Birkenstock, the renowned German footwear brand, has filed for an initial public offering (IPO) with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The company, which is under the ownership of LVMH-supported private equity firm L Catterton, intends to list on the New York Stock Exchange using the ticker "BIRK". Although the filing did not specify the number of shares or the anticipated share price range, prior estimates suggest the brand might be valued at up to $10 billion. This is a notable increase from 2021, when L Catterton purchased Birkenstock for approximately $4.3 billion. For the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022, Birkenstock declared revenues of $1.3 billion and a profit of $201 million. It is important to note, the fashion and beauty sectors have recently witnessed a surge in IPO activities. Read more →

Chioma Nnadi Is British Vogue’s New Editor

Chioma Nnadi has been announced as the successor to Edward Enninful, taking over the editorial content of British Vogue starting October 9. This significant appointment marks her as the first Black woman to edit the esteemed publication. Nnadi, a London native, expressed her excitement about returning home. She acknowledges the pressure of the role, especially given the magazine's stature, but also highlights the positive changes in diversity and inclusion over the years. Starting her journey at Vogue in 2010 as a fashion news writer, she climbed the ranks, becoming the editor of Vogue by September 2020. Anna Wintour and Enninful both praised Nnadi's reputation and skills. Enninful's departure in March was unexpected, with his tenure being notable for championing diversity. Unlike Enninful, who began in styling, Nnadi's background is in editorial, hinting at a potential shift in the magazine's approach. Nnadi plans to emphasize "digital storytelling" with interactive elements during her leadership. Read more →

Balmain's Upcoming Collection Hijacked Prior to Paris Fashion Show

Balmain, the renowned French fashion house, faced a significant setback when a truck transporting around 50 pieces from its new collection was hijacked. The incident occurred en route from a Paris airport to Balmain's headquarters. Olivier Rousteing, the brand's creative director, expressed his distress over the incident on Instagram, emphasizing the disrespect shown. Thankfully, the truck driver was unharmed. Despite the setback, Balmain is set to showcase its 2024 spring-summer collection on September 27 during Paris Fashion Week, alongside other luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel, and Hermes. A Balmain representative confirmed the show's continuation, refraining from commenting further due to an ongoing investigation. Balmain operates under Mayhoola, an investment entity backed by the Qatar royal family. Read more →

Swatch and Blancpain Collaborate on the Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms Collection

Swatch collaborates with Blancpain, following their successful partnership with Omega in 2022. The new collection celebrates Blancpain's iconic Fifty Fathoms diver watch from 1953. The Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms series features five models named after the oceans, each water-resistant up to 91 meters and equipped with Swatch's SISTEM51 mechanical movement. Unique illustrations of nudibranchs, oceanic creatures, adorn the back of each watch case. Made of Swatch's patented Bioceramic material, the watches come with straps made from recycled fishing nets, prioritizing ocean conservation. Priced at $400, this collaboration hints at more innovative partnerships to come. Read more →

Fall Fashion Trends for 2023: My Personal Insight

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, I find myself eagerly anticipating the fashion trends that will cover the streets this fall. From the runways to the racks, here's a glimpse into the styles that have captured my attention and are sure to make a statement this season.

1. Wearability and Understated Luxury (Quiet Luxury)

The fusion of wearability with luxury is a testament to fashion's evolution into modernity. Net-a-Porter’s Director, Libby Page, emphasizes this shift, noting a blend of "effortless and understated luxury." It's about garments that move seamlessly from a daytime brunch to an evening gala, without compromising on style. Fabrics are chosen for both their tactile appeal and their ability to drape gracefully. This trend is a nod to the modern woman's dynamic lifestyle, where practicality meets sophistication. It is safe to say we will be seeing tons of women in their Sofia Richie eras this fall.

2. The Rise of Tomato Red 

There's no denying it: tomato red has taken the runways by storm as the shade du jour for the fall 2023 season. This hue, slightly more orange-toned than the typical cherry red and brighter than deep scarlet, has captivated us with its vibrant and joyful effect. The concept of "dopamine dressing" is very much alive, and this bold color exemplifies it while remaining surprisingly wearable.

Designers have wholeheartedly embraced this trend. Maximilian Davis infused his Ferragamo collection with this poppy shade, showcasing monochrome looks that were both striking and elegant. Gucci, on the other hand, incorporated the shade in the form of sheer separates, adding an ethereal quality to their collection. Jonathan Anderson at Loewe presented artful shift dresses that resembled red spray paint on canvas, while Stella McCartney's equestrian-inspired show highlighted the color in everything from oversized polo shirts to chic, sharp tailoring.

For those looking to incorporate tomato red into their wardrobe, the options are vast. Classic silhouettes, from double-breasted blazers to slinky skirts, fluid dresses, and cashmere knitwear, capture the color's intensity. And if you're not quite ready to commit to a full monochrome look, accessories are your best friend. A punchy handbag or a classic shoe, like a kitten heel or loafer, in this vibrant hue can elevate any outfit. The best part? Tomato red is a timeless shade, ensuring that these pieces will remain staples for seasons to come.

3. Maxi Silhouettes and Tailoring

The allure of maxi silhouettes is their timeless elegance and reminiscence of vintage eras. These designs, with their flowing fabrics and unrestricted forms, speak to a desire for freedom and fluidity. They harken back to the '70s, a time when fashion was as free-spirited as the cultural movements of the era. Whether it's a billowing maxi dress or a long, layered skirt that adds depth to an ensemble, these pieces are both a nod to the past and a reflection of contemporary desires for comfort and style.

On the other end of the spectrum, we see a renewed emphasis on tailoring. Tiffany Hsu from MyTheresa has highlighted this focus, and it's evident why. Tailored pieces, with their precise cuts and impeccable fit, exude a sense of power and sophistication. Tailored blazers, trousers, waistcoats, and coats offer a sense of stability and confidence, making them essential pieces for the modern wardrobe.

Together, maxi silhouettes and tailoring create a harmonious balance. They represent the duality of our desires: the yearning for freedom and expression, coupled with a need for structure and definition.

4. Transition from Fantasy to Reality

The past three years have been a whirlwind, with fashion serving as an escape from the realities of a world in flux. Ethereal gowns, whimsical patterns, and fantastical themes dominated the runways in 2022, providing a much-needed escape from the outside world. However, as April Hennig of Moda Operandi astutely observes, there's a palpable shift in 2023.

Fashion is grounding itself once more, echoing the collective desire for authenticity and tangible connections. It's not about abandoning creativity but channeling it in ways that resonate with our current realities. Garments are designed with a renewed focus on functionality without compromising on elegance. Think of luxurious yet practical fabrics, adaptable silhouettes, and designs that cater to a myriad of occasions, from boardrooms to intimate gatherings.

Moreover, this trend underscores the industry's adaptability. It's a reflection of society's journey, transitioning from a period of uncertainty and introspection to one of hope and reconnection.

5. Textured Pieces and Sheer Shirts

Texture in fashion is more than just a visual treat; it's a tactile experience that elevates an outfit's depth and intrigue. This season, we're seeing a resurgence of brocades, velvets, and knits, each adding a layer of sophistication and an artisanal touch. These textured pieces are a nod to craftsmanship and a counterpoint to the mass-produced items of fast fashion.

Conversely, sheer shirts offer a delicate balance between revelation and concealment. Their ethereal quality allows for playful layering, making them versatile for both day and night. Whether paired with tailored pieces for a chic contrast or adorned with subtle embroidery for added flair, they're a testament to the nuanced interplay of boldness and subtlety in contemporary fashion.

6. Furry Accessories

Accessories are set to make a significant impact this fall. One of the standout items: Furry shoes. These are not just statement pieces but conversation starters, adding a touch of whimsy and luxury to any outfit. Gucci just debuted their Mariame Faux Fur Bit Thong Sandals, and while they might not be my cup of tea, they are selling out everywhere.

7. Continuation of Trans-Seasonal Pieces

As sustainability and adaptability become paramount in fashion, trans-seasonal pieces emerge as the embodiment of this shift. These garments, versatile enough for year-round wear, champion the ethos of mindful consumption. The trench coat, a classic emblem of timeless style, is undergoing a renaissance. While its traditional form remains evergreen, designers are reimagining it more than ever this fall. We're seeing cropped versions that lend a contemporary edge, oversized fits that exude a relaxed chic vibe, and bold pops of color that challenge its’ typically neutral palette. Even materials are being rethought, with denim trench coats offering a casual yet sophisticated alternative. This evolution of the trench coat symbolizes the broader trend: a blend of tradition with innovation, ensuring fashion is both enduring and exciting.

Final Thoughts

To close, the fashion of fall 2023 is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. From the tactile allure of textured fabrics to the bold reimagining of timeless classics like the trench coat, each trend tells a story of adaptability, sustainability, and sartorial evolution. As we embrace these styles, we're not just making fashion choices; we're participating in a larger narrative of conscious consumption and timeless elegance. This season reminds us that fashion, at its core, is both a reflection of the times and a beacon for the future, guiding us towards a world where style and substance coexist seamlessly.

Thank you again for supporting the world of luxury.