The fashion retail landscape is undergoing a transformative shift, thanks to the rise of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and visual search technology. These cutting-edge tools are redefining how consumers discover, experience, and purchase fashion, moving away from text-heavy browsing and toward inspiration-driven, hyper-personalised shopping journeys.

At the forefront of this evolution is Glance, a tech start-up led by Naveen Tewari, the mind behind mobile advertising unicorn InMobi. Tewari envisions a fashion world powered not by simple browsing but by smart algorithms and AI-driven avatars that replicate a shopper’s likeness and preferences with uncanny accuracy.

From Search to Discovery: A New Shopping Paradigm

“It’s a new way of shopping,” says Tewari. “We think of it as a shift from traditional browsing to inspiration-led discovery.” His app, Glance, offers a uniquely immersive experience. Users upload selfies and input basic information such as age, ethnicity, and body type into the app. Then, using two decades of retail data and powerful GenAI models, Glance suggests clothing tailored to each individual.

But this isn’t just a list of products. The app generates a personalized avatar that models the suggested outfits, offering users a near-real-life preview of how they’d look in each piece. If users like what they see, they can tap through to any of Glance’s 400+ retail partners to complete their purchase.

And the engagement speaks volumes. In early trials in the U.S., the app garnered 1.5 million users, with over half logging in weekly, and a significant portion beginning purchase journeys directly from the platform. “The level of engagement is nuts,” Tewari remarks.

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Beyond Fashion: A Broader Vision for AI-Powered Shopping

Glance’s ambitions don’t stop at clothing. The company plans to expand into verticals like accessories and home furnishings, tapping into the same AI infrastructure and user-driven design. Its open architecture allows for seamless integration with smartphones and smart TVs, transforming everyday devices into AI-driven commerce portals. “We turn phones into AI phones and TVs into household commerce devices,” Tewari says.

With partnerships already in motion and integration in consumer electronics underway, Glance is targeting 50 million users over the next year—an ambitious goal, but not unrealistic given the traction so far.

The Rise of Visual Search in Retail

Glance’s approach is part of a wider movement toward visual search replacing text-based retail navigation. This transition is driven by consumer behavior and technological maturity. According to Zion Market Research, the global visual search market is expected to grow from $35.5 billion in 2023 to over $150 billion by 2032. “Visual search is a brilliant cross-selling tool that shows visually analogous products,” analysts note.

Retail giants are already capitalizing on this. Amazon enables shoppers to upload images and find lookalike items instantly. Ikea and Target offer visual preview tools that let users see furniture in their own living spaces before purchasing. These features don’t just simplify shopping—they create confidence, reduce return rates, and boost satisfaction.

Startups Fueling the Revolution

Start-ups across the globe are contributing to this momentum. London-based Miros, a visual AI e-commerce company, recently secured $6 million in funding from investors, including Estonia’s former President Toomas Hendrik Ilves. Meanwhile, Pixyle AI continues to refine its platform that lets shoppers search by image or describe their ideal items in natural language.

Other innovators include The New Black AI, which offers an experience similar to Glance by letting users upload both selfies and product photos to preview potential outfits. Even tech behemoth Google is testing similar tools—its “virtual try-on” feature lets users visualize themselves wearing clothing items directly within Google Search.

What the Future Holds

The appeal of visual tools is particularly strong among younger demographics. One recent study revealed that nearly two-thirds of millennials and Gen Z consumers prefer visual search capabilities over other new technologies. In a world increasingly dominated by imagery and video, especially on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, this preference is hardly surprising.

As AI continues to evolve, the boundaries between online shopping and real-life experience are blurring. Visual search, powered by GenAI, offers a more intuitive, engaging, and personalised retail experience, paving the way for a future where shopping is no longer about searching but about discovering.

The race is now on to perfect these technologies and scale them globally. Retailers and technology firms that embrace this shift early stand to reap significant rewards not just in revenue but in deeper, more meaningful connections with the consumers of tomorrow.

When Loewe introduced the Puzzle Bag in 2014 under creative director Jonathan Anderson, it quietly disrupted the handbag world. With its distinctive cuboid construction, precise geometric panels, and origami-like folds, it quickly became a cult favourite among fashion insiders, celebrities, and collectors. Now, a decade later, the Spanish luxury house is honoring its iconic design with a celebration as artful and inventive as the bag itself.

To mark the Puzzle Bag’s 10th anniversary, Loewe is unveiling a special collection featuring 19 re-editions from past seasons, each handpicked for its unique design, craftsmanship, and cultural relevance. These are not simple re-releases. Each bag has been carefully restored to reflect the original creative vision while paying homage to the artistry that has defined the Puzzle Bag since its inception.

The star of the celebration, however, is a brand-new version that Loewe describes as “confetti-covered.” This limited-edition bag is adorned with thousands of tiny leather sequins a textured, playful nod to the confetti cube installation created by Italian artist Lara Favaretto for Loewe’s Fall/Winter 2023 women’s show. The original installation famously began disintegrating during the runway show from the rhythmic pounding of models’ footsteps. That same sense of motion, fragility, and ephemeral beauty is now captured in this celebratory edition of the Puzzle Bag.

What sets the Puzzle Bag apart is not just its instantly recognisable shape but also the way it has served as a canvas for Loewe’s dedication to craftsmanship and its close ties to the art world. Over the years, the brand has incorporated techniques such as appliqué, leather marquetry, embroidery, printing, patchwork, and cross-stitch into various Puzzle editions. These methods go far beyond embellishment — they elevate the bag into the realm of functional sculpture.

For this anniversary release, Loewe has curated a lineup of artistic re-editions featuring designs inspired by the works of William Morris, Joe Brainard, Ken Price, and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The result is a collection that feels both nostalgic and fresh, rooted in the brand’s creative past while looking forward to the future of design.

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The luxury house, part of the LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton group, is turning the Puzzle 10 celebration into a global campaign. Exclusive pop-up spaces will be set up at Bergdorf Goodman in New York and Harrods in London, while two curated exhibitions will take place at Genesis Art Gallery in Beijing and Dopeness Art Lab in Taiwan. These events aim to showcase the artistic DNA of the brand, while bringing fans closer to the craft behind the product.

In a rare move that highlights the label’s commitment to transparency and education in fashion, Loewe is also sending its artisans on tour. In select cities, they will demonstrate the meticulous construction process that defines the Puzzle Bag from panel cutting to stitching and the signature folding technique that allows the bag to collapse flat. This kind of access offers enthusiasts a chance to truly understand what goes into making a luxury item and why craftsmanship matters more than ever in today’s fast-paced fashion world.

Each Puzzle 10 edition comes with thoughtful finishing touches that enhance its collectible appeal. A commemorative metal plaque, soft suede lining, and two balloon-shaped charms are included in every piece. The packaging is equally refined: a gold-foil box that contains a limited-edition jigsaw puzzle, subtly referencing the bag’s name and structure while adding an element of whimsy to the unboxing experience.

The collection officially drops on Thursday, May 22, and will be available on Loewe’s official website and at select Loewe boutiques worldwide. Given the limited nature and high demand, collectors are expected to move quickly, especially for the more visually striking and historically significant re-editions.

More than just a birthday celebration, the Puzzle 10 collection reaffirms Loewe’s commitment to art, innovation, and craftsmanship. In an era where fashion often favours speed and trend over quality and permanence, this project is a reminder that luxury, at its best, is both personal and timeless.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Puzzle Bag or discovering its magic for the first time, this anniversary drop offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of fashion history  one that speaks not only to design excellence but also to the enduring value of creativity.

Moonlight draped the Croisette in silver when Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson slipped through the gilded doors of Club Albane, Dior Beauty’s rooftop haven perched above Cannes’ glimmering yacht-filled harbor. Moments earlier the two costars had stepped from the Palais des Festivals, cheeks still warm from a six-minute standing ovation for Lynne Ramsay’s Die My Love—but the workday was over; celebration had begun. A slow salt breeze climbed the terrace and carried with it laughter, perfume, and the distant purr of generators below, setting the stage for a night where cinema’s brightest stars exhaled together.

Lawrence arrived first, black silk moving like ink over her shoulders—Maria Grazia Chiuri’s answer to midnight glamour. Only a short while ago she had embodied Old Hollywood in a taffeta gown the shade of candle wax, an archival whisper from Dior’s Poulenc era. Now the palette felt sharper, aligned with the after-party pulse. Her grin, irreverent as ever, undercut the couture. “Red-carpet prep? Pure fear,” she teased, glass of icy water in hand, makeup already traded for bare freckles. In the actress’s universe, honesty remains the most reliable accessory.

Pattinson followed, weaving through a corridor of flashbulbs that bloomed like tiny white roses. His tuxedo—precision cut, lapels catching starlight—looked as though it had been grown rather than stitched, so naturally did it sit on his frame. He had just watched Die My Love for the first time alongside the public and confessed the experience left him buzzing. “The room’s energy felt electric,” he said. Up on the terrace he greeted French rugby hero Antoine Dupont, the pair laughing over shared camera clicks, athlete and actor united by sudden flashes of global attention.

Music floated from the pool where French multihyphenate Alex Lutz strummed through a set of chanson, funk, and sly pop covers. Guests grazed on truffle-dusted pommes frites, Dior-stamped macarons, and rosé cold enough to mist its own glass. Conversation drifted between industry gossip and gentle philosophising: Laurent Lafitte, this year’s festival master of ceremonies, spoke about the privilege of championing every strain of cinema—from microbudget dreams to auteur epics. In a tux that rivalled Pattinson’s for sleek authority, Lafitte shrugged off hierarchy. “Storytelling thrives in every form,” he said, “and Cannes is the one place that remembers.”

At a corner banquette sat Natalie Portman, luminous beneath a sweep of honey-blonde hair, discussing comfort films with Juliette Binoche and Diane Kruger. Portman is deep in a nostalgia phase, trading festival opulence for VHS memories once she reaches her hotel. “Comedy keeps me grounded,” she admitted. Lately her nightcaps include Reese Witherspoon scheming through a high-school election and Robin Williams disguising fatherly devotion behind latex and laughter. Binoche brightened at the mention of Mrs. Doubtfire; Kruger confessed a secret fondness for slapstick. For a moment the conversation belonged not to Cannes but to sleepover culture—popcorn, quilts, a television flickering past midnight.

Rising talent Raphaël Quenard punctuated the evening with a burst of French swagger, shades perched on the bridge of his nose despite the hour. He owned the look with a mischief that felt refreshing among the studied elegance surrounding him. “Sunglasses at night hide a multitude of sins,” he joked, before pausing to shout praise across the terrace to cinematographer Natasha Braier, whose shimmering, saturated frames turn Die My Love into a half-remembered dream. That single compliment illustrated why Cannes matters; craft recognizes craft, and every balcony can become a masterclass.

Jennifer Lawrence and–Robert–Pattinson Live Dior

Back near the railing Lawrence glanced over the marina, eyes reflecting a quilt of anchor lights. She spoke of collaboration, how director Lynne Ramsay draws performances out of actors the way a jeweler frees diamonds from rock. “You don’t act in her world; you surrender,” Lawrence said, voice low but unguarded. Pattinson, leaning on the balustrade, nodded; both stars have weathered franchise fame yet treasure the freedom of auteur cinema. This project—in which love turns savage, tender, and unbearably human—pushed them to places blockbusters rarely tread.

Yet solemnity never lasts long at a rooftop soiree in Cannes. Soon Portman joined Lutz for an impromptu duet, voice clear against rippling guitar. Kruger clapped along; Binoche, ageless and twinkling, coaxed Lafitte into a waltz by the pool. Around them publicists dropped clipboards, critics pocketed notebooks, and for a heartbeat everyone became simply a fan of the moment.

When a hush finally settled it was due to dawn teasing the horizon, lavender softening into pale coral. Pattinson straightened his jacket as though to bid the night proper farewell, but Lawrence tugged him toward the DJ booth where a remix of Edith Piaf had begun to rise. They danced without choreography, two silhouettes against a waking sky, proof that joy is often unscripted. Cameras captured the shimmer of her gown, the relaxed grin spreading across his face, and the unstoppable current of friends turning acquaintances into allies.

Cannes can overwhelm with its procession of gowns, press calls, and yacht dinners, yet evenings like this remind attendees why they endure the chaos: because cinema at its best prompts communion, and celebration becomes art in motion. Dior’s party framed that thesis, offering a stage where legends, newcomers, and unseen technicians mingled as equals. By the time guests descended the staircase, shoes in hand to feel cool stone beneath tired feet, the memory was already gilded—another Riviera story carried home like a secret postcard.

As the yachts’ horns announced sunrise and the Croisette resumed its patient hum, a shared thought floated among departing cars: films fade to end credits, but nights like this linger, stitched forever into festival folklore.

The legacy of Karl Lagerfeld, one of fashion’s most iconic figures, continues to evolve — this time through a daring and immersive pop-up installation in the heart of Seoul. From May 16 to May 26, the visionary world of Lagerfeld will come alive in Seongdong-gu, an emerging cultural hotspot in South Korea’s capital, fusing fashion, history, and local creativity in a 2,475-square-foot space designed to captivate and engage.

The pop-up, strategically located in a former industrial zone now brimming with design studios and art spaces, signals the brand’s intent to both honor the past and build on a future of cultural dialogue. With this project, Karl Lagerfeld as a brand steps into a new chapter in Asia — one that blends the couturier’s Parisian heritage with Seoul’s dynamic street style and innovation.

A Personal Touch: Homecoming for Creative Director Hun Kim

This Seoul activation holds special meaning for Karl Lagerfeld’s creative director, Hun Kim, who was born in the city. “Seoul has always been a source of creative energy for me,” Kim shared. “From its street style to the way the city blends tradition with bold innovation. Bringing Karl’s world home to my birth city makes this pop-up especially meaningful.”

For Kim, the installation isn’t just about showcasing fashion; it’s a deeply personal dialogue between a brand and a birthplace. The space aims to connect generations   from Lagerfeld’s longtime admirers to Gen Z style-setters discovering his legacy for the first time.

The Highlights: Iconic Symbols and Interactive Elements

Visitors are greeted by massive archways shaped like Karl Lagerfeld’s unmistakable silhouette — black sunglasses, high collars, and powdered ponytail — setting the tone for an exhibition that’s part fashion gallery, part cultural playground.

A standout attraction is Jared Leto’s full-body Choupette costume, famously worn at the 2023 Met Gala. The life-sized feline tribute to Lagerfeld’s beloved Birman cat, Choupette, is a magnet for selfies and fan admiration. The costume is both whimsical and reverent, capturing the eccentric spirit that defined Lagerfeld’s personal brand.

Also on display is a meticulously recreated version of Lagerfeld’s personal desk from his Paris office, offering an intimate glimpse into his creative mind. Surrounding it are quotes, fashion sketches, and artifacts that evoke his legendary precision, wit, and boundless imagination.

Karl Lagerfeld World Comes to Life in Seoul A Bold,

Cultural Fusion: Hanji and Hidden Surprises

In a nod to Korean tradition, one installation uses hanji — traditional handmade Korean paper — folded into miniature shirts and collars, paying homage to Lagerfeld’s iconic uniform. A single real shirt from the brand is hidden among the paper creations, challenging visitors to spot the difference and rewarding those who do with special prizes.

These interactive features are more than gimmicks. They reflect the brand’s strategy to engage with younger, digitally native audiences through storytelling and surprise — transforming fashion into an experience.

Fashion Meets Future: A Peek at Spring 2025

Alongside archival nods, the pop-up serves as a platform for the Karl Lagerfeld Spring 2025 collection. The lineup includes ready-to-wear pieces and accessories that interpret the brand’s signature monochrome palette with contemporary flair. Shoppers can view and purchase the latest designs, while also participating in fashion challenges like dressing in Karl’s signature black-and-white look for a chance to win exclusive merchandise.

Fragrance also finds its place, with the Karl Ikonik perfumes adding a sensory layer to the experience. By blending sight, scent, and touch, the installation creates a full-circle fashion journey.

Strategic Expansion: South Korea in the Spotlight

Pier Paolo Righi, CEO of Karl Lagerfeld, emphasized the importance of the South Korean market. “As we shape Karl’s future legacy, we’re excited to share stories and deepen our dialogue with a city that continues to define global style,” he said.

This pop-up marks the brand’s intention to establish a deeper presence in South Korea, where fashion consumers are known for their discerning taste and trendsetting influence. With more than 200 stores globally in cities like Paris, London, Dubai, and Shanghai, Karl Lagerfeld’s expansion into Korea aligns with its strategy to fuse heritage with innovation in high-growth fashion markets.

A Bridge Between Past and Present

Ultimately, the Seoul pop-up is more than a marketing installation — it’s a bridge between the legendary designer’s past and the fashion-forward future of Asia. It’s an invitation for fans old and new to step into Lagerfeld’s world, interact with his legacy, and walk away inspired.

For a designer who once said, “Don’t look to the past. There’s no future in it,” the Seoul pop-up finds the perfect balance  honoring the past, thrilling the present, and hinting at a bold future.

 Blackpink’s Rosé, Formula 1 legend Sir Lewis Hamilton, and Mandopop icon Jay Chou are to be featured in the “Never Still” campaign. When you’re constantly crossing time zones, chasing inspiration, or circling the globe in the fast lane, your suitcase becomes more than just storage  it becomes a canvas of your life’s journeys. That’s the message behind Rimowa’s newest chapter in its iconic “Never Still” campaign, this time featuring three global powerhouses.

But this campaign doesn’t just showcase sleek aluminium luggage or stylish travel aesthetics. It zooms in on something more personal  the dents, the scratches, and yes, the stickers — that silently narrate stories of exploration, resilience, and reinvention. And for these stars, every sticker holds a secret, a memory, or a revelation.

Rosé: The Soulful Explorer

Fresh off a whirlwind year with BLACKPINK and poised to launch a massive world tour kicking off July 5 in Goyang, South Korea, Rosé knows a thing or two about living out of a suitcase. But hers isn’t just any suitcase; it’s her personalised Rimowa, weathered through continents and concerts, adorned with stickers that mark not just places but emotions.

“Travelling the world only makes me realise just how much more there is to explore,” she shares, gently touching a faded sticker of the Sydney Opera House. For Rosé, born in New Zealand and raised in Australia before conquering the global K-pop stage, travel isn’t a break from life it is life. And her suitcase, covered in fragments of where she’s been, reminds her of who she’s becoming.

She smiles when asked if any sticker rivals her love for music. “Maybe the one with a tiny guitar from Nashville. It reminds me that even when I’m far from home, I’m always close to my voice.”

Jay Chou: The Storyteller in Motion

Jay Chou, Taiwan’s Mandopop king and a multi-hyphenate creator, carries his identity and inspiration in his Rimowa. And it’s not subtle. A crossed-rackets tennis sticker peeks from behind metallic grooves, hinting at a surprising off-stage passion.

“I’ve always loved tennis; it’s a mental game as much as a physical one,” he says. “Like travel, it’s about rhythm, timing, and facing the unexpected.”

Chou’s suitcase is a visual diary of detours and daydreams. From street food stalls in Bangkok to concert arenas in Paris, his case has seen it all. “Every journey helps me see the world in a new way,” he reflects. “It’s a chance to shape who I am and what I create. That’s why I keep going. I know I’ll come back a little bit wiser.”

And in a fast-changing music industry, wisdom and authenticity travel far.

Lewis Hamilton: The Reinventor

Sir Lewis Hamilton is used to moving fast. But when the Formula 1 icon isn’t navigating hairpin turns at 300 km/h, he’s slowing down to reflect on deeper journeys. One such trip was his 2024 journey through Africa a formative experience that inspired the Afrofuturism theme of his latest Dior capsule collection.

“You learn so much about yourself when you leave your comfort zone,” Hamilton shares. “Travel is about challenging your assumptions, reinventing who you thought you were.”

His sticker of choice? A cartoon portrait of Roscoe, his vegan bulldog and Instagram celebrity in his own right. “He goes where I go. And that sticker makes every hotel room feel a bit more like home.”

Rosé, Jay Chou and Lewis Hamilton Open Up About lan

A Campaign with Luggage That Tells Stories

This “Never Still” campaign marks a bold new era for Rimowa, a brand that’s embracing the emotional value behind every scuff and sticker. Shot by Johnny Dufort and directed by Daniel Wolfe and Elliott Power, the campaign fuses high fashion with high emotion, capturing not only movement but meaning.

“Durability and emotion have always been at the core of Rimowa in how our products are made and in the stories they carry,” says Emelie De Vitis, Rimowa’s senior vice president of product and marketing.

Indeed, the brand’s lifetime guarantee, launched in 2023, now feels less like a policy and more like a promise that every journey taken with Rimowa matters.

And with demand rising for pre-loved and “re-crafted” suitcases, which often sell out in minutes, it’s clear that today’s travellers aren’t just looking for polish, they’re craving personality.

More Than Luggage. It’s Legacy.

What do Rosé, Jay Chou, and Lewis Hamilton have in common? Different backgrounds, different beats, different speeds, but one shared belief: that travel isn’t just about going places. It’s about becoming more of who you are.

Through scuffed aluminium and stickered surfaces, they remind us that we’re all collecting stories one gate, one bag, one moment at a time.

And if a suitcase can carry all that?

Then maybe, just maybe, it’s not baggage. It’s a badge of honour.

In an exclusive revelation that intertwines high fashion with ancient grandeur, Dior has announced the venue for its much-anticipated Cruise 2026 show: the illustrious Villa Albani Torlonia in Rome. Artistic director Maria Grazia Chiuri will unveil her latest collection on May 27 in the heart of the Eternal City, continuing her tradition of selecting evocative, culturally rich locations that bring deeper meaning to fashion.

The choice of venue isn’t just opulent; it’s historic, secretive, and steeped in the timeless beauty of Greek and Roman antiquity. Built in the 18th century by architect Carlo Marchionni for Cardinal Alessandro Albani, Villa Albani Torlonia was conceived as both a residence and a sanctuary for one of the most remarkable collections of classical art in Europe. With its perfectly manicured terraces, sprawling gardens, and a majestic array of sculptures and frescoes, the villa remains largely hidden from public view, open only by special appointment and strictly off-limits to photography.

This makes Dior’s upcoming show an unprecedented cultural moment.

“This extraordinary villa, a secret treasure trove of ancient Roman wonders, will exceptionally  and for the first time open its gates to host the Dior 2026 cruise show,” Dior announced. “The elegance of the silhouettes dreamed up by Maria Grazia Chiuri will shine within this outstanding cradle of neoclassicism.”

Chiuri, born and raised in Rome, continues to find ways to blend her heritage with the Maison’s global vision. Her upbringing among the city’s ancient ruins and Renaissance masterpieces clearly influences her work, from her feminist reinterpretations of the Dior silhouette to her collaborations with artisans and cultural institutions.

While last year’s Cruise 2025 collection unfolded against the dramatic backdrop of Drummond Castle in Scotland, this year’s move to Villa Albani marks a return to Chiuri’s roots geographically, historically, and perhaps even emotionally.

This is not Chiuri’s first foray into Rome’s cultural spaces. Earlier this year, she curated an exhibition at the Vatican Apostolic Library focused on 19th-century female travellers, weaving historical narratives with contemporary design. She has also supported the performing arts by designing costumes for ballet productions and, most recently, by acquiring Teatro della Cometa, a 250-seat historic theatre in Rome that had gone dark during the pandemic. Her aim? To breathe new life into the venue, preserving a piece of the city’s cultural soul.

There’s also an air of speculation swirling around this Cruise show. With Jonathan Anderson, former creative director of Loewe, recently stepping into Dior’s menswear division and whispers suggesting a possible broader role, many insiders wonder if this could be Chiuri’s final bow at the house she has led since 2016.

If so, the choice of Villa Albani Torlonia may be as much a personal love letter to Rome as it is a professional crescendo. In an industry constantly moving forward, Chiuri’s grounding in heritage from art and architecture to community and craft has distinguished her vision and brought a cerebral, heartfelt touch to Dior’s legacy.

Fashion has often looked to the past for inspiration, but rarely does it get to breathe life into history the way this show promises. At Villa Albani Torlonia, Dior won’t just be presenting clothes. It will be staging a dialogue between antiquity and modernity, luxury and legacy, and perhaps, if rumours hold true, the close of a chapter for one of fashion’s most thoughtful visionaries.

As Rome prepares to host this rare fusion of art, history, and couture, the world will be watching not just for the clothes but for what this show might signal about the future of Dior and the woman who redefined its essence for a new era.

In a powerful union of tradition and innovation, Patrick McDowell, renowned for his sustainable and circular fashion, was honoured with the prestigious 2025 Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design, presented by none other than Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales.

The ceremony, held at 180 Studios in London as part of the British Fashion Council (BFC) Foundation Impact Announcement Day, celebrated the forward-thinking designer for his commitment to environmental sustainability and community-driven creativity.

A Royal Moment Rooted in Sustainability

Kate Middleton, stepping into her increasing public role after undergoing cancer treatment, looked every bit the modern royal in a Victoria Beckham olive-green suit—symbolic, perhaps, of her support for both British talent and sustainability.

McDowell, dressed in a Prince of Wales check suit crafted from deadstock Burberry fabric, stood proudly as he accepted the award an accolade created in collaboration with the Royal Household to spotlight designers committed to creating meaningful change.

“This moment is incredible,” McDowell said. “To have two of Britain’s most influential institutions—the Royal Family and the British Fashion Council supporting my circular luxury brand is deeply affirming. It shows how far sustainable fashion has come.”

A Designer With a Mission

McDowell has been a trailblazer in sustainable fashion since launching his namesake label in 2018 following his graduation from Central Saint Martins. From the beginning, he prioritised craftsmanship, environmental impact, and storytelling—three pillars that now define his unique position in the fashion world.

Rather than follow the traditional fashion calendar, McDowell works directly with clients on a made-to-order model, producing only a handful of numbered pieces per collection. This model not only reduces waste but also cultivates a personal relationship between the designer and the wearer each piece is embroidered with the client’s name and its serial number.

His client list includes icons like Lady Gaga, Keira Knightley, and Sarah Jessica Parker, but his business remains intentionally small: just four full-time team members servicing a global, design-savvy clientele.

Innovation Through Legacy Materials

McDowell’s creations often incorporate deadstock and surplus materials from brands like Burberry and Swarovski or even archival pieces from institutions such as Rambert, Britain’s oldest dance company. He’s known for transforming these forgotten or discarded materials into avant-garde couture pieces that merge history, craftsmanship, and sustainability.

These are not garments for a single season. They are pieces meant to be cherished, repaired, and redesigned—a response to the fast-fashion cycle McDowell so ardently resists.

“We offer aftercare services like repair and redesign,” McDowell explained. “We want people to love their clothes longer and treat them as heirlooms rather than disposables.”

The Award That Reflects Purpose

The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design, which was first awarded to Richard Quinn in 2018, honours designers who integrate ethical, sustainable, or community-focused values into their work. Each year, the award’s trophy—a sculpture inspired by the Queen Elizabeth rose is handmade by Lucy Price at Bauhinia Studios in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

McDowell now joins the ranks of previous winners like Bethany Williams, Rosh Mahtani, Saul Nash, and Steven Stokey-Daley visionaries who, like McDowell, are reshaping the industry’s moral and creative compass.

Looking Ahead: Sustainable Leadership

McDowell’s influence extends far beyond his own label. As a participant in the BFC’s Low Carbon Transition Program, he collaborates with other London-based fashion businesses to develop decarbonised supply chains. He also served as sustainability design director at Pinko from 2021 to 2024, guiding the Italian label toward greener practices.

In the face of rising global urgency around fashion’s environmental toll, McDowell’s work represents not only aesthetic brilliance but also ethical leadership. His win underscores a growing consensus in the industry: fashion’s future must be regenerative, responsible, and human-centric.

As Kate Middleton continues to champion British design on the global stage, her acknowledgement of Patrick McDowell’s work sends a strong message—sustainability is no longer a niche. It’s the new luxury.

Tommy Hilfiger has just added a global style icon, Jang Won-Young, to its roster, and she is bringing a K-pop twist to American cool. The legendary fashion house has tapped South Korean superstar Jang Won-Young as the new face of its Tommy Jeans Summer campaign, blending timeless prep with youthful flair.

Known for her radiant beauty, impeccable style, and undeniable stage presence, Jang Won-Young, also referred to simply as Wonyoung, is not just another celebrity face she’s a fashion force and cultural icon in the making. At just 20 years old, she’s already the darling of both the music and luxury fashion worlds, having fronted campaigns for Miu Miu and Fred Joaillier. Now, she’s set to redefine the vibe of Tommy Jeans for a whole new generation.

A Star Who Defines the Moment

Best known as a member of the chart-topping K-pop girl group IVE, Wonyoung skyrocketed to fame after winning the popular reality competition Produce 48 in 2018. She initially debuted with the now-disbanded group Iz*One before re-launching her career with IVE under Starship Entertainment in 2021.

IVE’s debut single, “Eleven,” wasn’t just a hit it was a cultural phenomenon. And so was Wonyoung, who quickly emerged as the group’s visual and fashion icon. With her model-like proportions, effortless elegance, and ever-evolving sense of style, she naturally caught the eye of global brands seeking to connect with Gen Z audiences.

“It’s an honour to join the Tommy family,” said Wonyoung in the campaign announcement. “This is a brand with a long history of celebrating inspiring women who lead with confidence and creativity. This campaign is about expressing your true self, and I hope together we can inspire the next generation to embrace what makes them unique and find joy in every moment.”

The Campaign: Bold, Playful, and All About Personal Style

Shot by acclaimed Korean photographer Mok Jung-Wook, the Tommy Jeans Summer campaign featuring Wonyoung is everything you’d expect: laid-back, stylish, and effortlessly cool. It celebrates individuality with a fresh spin on classics that speak to a global audience.

In one look, Wonyoung sports a red, white, and blue Tommy T-shirt paired with relaxed-fit denim jeans and white sneakers, a nod to the brand’s iconic all-American roots. In another, she transitions into a black strappy midi-dress and a pleated miniskirt, adding an elegant, feminine twist to streetwear.

The visuals feel authentic and spontaneous, much like Wonyoung herself: bright, bold, and undeniably modern. It’s a blend of East-meets-West fashion that not only honours Tommy Hilfiger’s heritage but also reflects the future of global style.

“Jang Won-Young embodies the spirit of Tommy Jeans with her authentic style, radiant confidence, and effortless ability to elevate everyday looks,” said Tommy Hilfiger. “She brings a polished edge to streetwear in a way that’s entirely her own, a true reflection of our modern take on timeless prep.”

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Why This Partnership Matters

This collaboration isn’t just about a pretty face in denim, it’s a strategic move that reflects the growing influence of K-pop and Korean culture in global fashion and media. By choosing Wonyoung, Tommy Hilfiger is embracing a multi-national, youth-driven future where style is fluid, diverse, and digitally connected.

It’s also a bold step in redefining the perception of American fashion. Rather than clinging to nostalgia, Hilfiger is using Wonyoung’s fresh energy to modernise its legacy and engage audiences who live online, love K-pop, and value authenticity over trends.

In a world where fashion collaborations can feel forced or overly commercial, this one feels organic. Wonyoung wears Tommy not just as a model but as a muse, someone who lives and breathes the aesthetic without compromising her cultural identity.

Style for All

The Tommy Jeans summer collection worn by Wonyoung will be available online at tommy.com, in Tommy Hilfiger stores globally, and through select wholesale partners. It features inclusive sizing from XXS to XXL and price points ranging from $35 to $139, making high-impact, trend-forward fashion accessible to everyone.

From denim essentials and sporty T-shirts to feminine dresses and nostalgic accessories, the collection is designed for style-seekers who want to mix comfort with personality. It’s perfect for fans of Wonyoung, lovers of K-style, and anyone who appreciates fashion with a pulse.

More Than a Campaign — It’s a Movement

Wonyoung’s rise represents more than just another wave of K-pop success. She symbolises a broader shift in how the world sees beauty, talent, and fashion. She’s the voice of a generation that embraces difference, moves fluidly across genres and borders, and isn’t afraid to be both polished and playful.

Tommy Hilfiger’s decision to align with that spirit is not just smart  it’s necessary. In an age where culture moves at the speed of TikTok and trends are born from the hands of digital creators, legacy brands must evolve or risk fading into irrelevance.

With Wonyoung leading the charge, it looks like Tommy Hilfiger is sprinting confidently into the future.

Just in time for summer, eco-conscious swimwear brand Vitamin A has announced the launch of an exclusive capsule collection at Target. This limited-edition drop brings over 45 eco-friendly, ocean-inspired pieces to one of the largest retail platforms in the U.S., blending sustainability with affordability and style.

Founded in California, Vitamin A has been a pioneer in sustainable fashion for 25 years. Known for merging environmental responsibility with sleek, flattering swimwear silhouettes, the brand has built a cult following that includes celebrities like Jessica Alba, Hailey Van Lith, and Jenna Dewan. Now, for the first time, Vitamin A is making its signature style accessible to a wider audience through an exclusive partnership with Target.

Nature-Inspired, Planet-Loving Fashion

The Vitamin A for Target collection delivers on both environmental and aesthetic fronts. The line includes bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, and beachwear such as dresses, sarongs, and coordinated sets — all designed with a strong emphasis on versatility, comfort, and eco-conscious materials.

Each item is crafted using sustainable fabrics like recycled jersey, textured jacquards, and cotton-linen blends. These materials are not only gentle on the planet but also breathable and ideal for warm-weather getaways. True to the brand’s roots, the design palette draws from the natural world, featuring dreamy colourways and prints such as Sea Glass, Coral Fans, Canyon Terra Cotta, Desert Palms, Kelp Forest, and Lagoon.

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Function Meets Fashion

A standout feature of this collection is its multi-functional design ethos. For example, the convertible triangle bra top can be worn six different ways, offering a new look with each wear. The three-way scarf transitions seamlessly from a headwrap to a sarong to a bandeau top, reflecting Vitamin A’s core mission of creating purposeful, long-lasting wardrobe pieces.

“This collection is a blend of responsibility and aspiration,” said Katie Dawley, global brand president of Vitamin A. “At Vitamin A, our mission has always been to fuse sustainability with style. With this Target collaboration, we’re thrilled to bring our vision to more women than ever before.”

Dawley emphasised that each piece in the collection is “crafted with care and purpose, designed to endure season after season.” She noted that the designs celebrate nature’s influence, not just through prints and colours but through the very fibres of the garments themselves.

Target’s Take on Trendy, Ethical Fashion

This capsule is part of Target’s continued efforts to bring exclusive designer collaborations to its shelves, but with an eco-forward twist.

“We know consumers love shopping for new, on-trend swimwear at Target,” said Gena Fox, senior vice president of merchandising for apparel and accessories. “We’re excited to team up with Vitamin A to deliver beautifully designed swimsuits and beachwear at a great value, only available at Target.”

The full collection will be available in sizes XS to XXL, with prices ranging from $25 to $50 — a price point that’s both budget-friendly and values-aligned with today’s conscious shoppers.

Vitamin A’s Sustainable Legacy

Since its founding, Vitamin A has prioritised environmental impact in everything from material sourcing to packaging. The brand is known for pioneering the use of recycled nylon fibres in swimwear, long before sustainable fashion became mainstream.

By expanding into mass retail with this collaboration, Vitamin A is making sustainable fashion more accessible, reaching consumers who might not otherwise encounter eco-conscious swimwear. It’s a strategic move that amplifies both the brand’s ethos and its influence, especially as demand for ethical, planet-friendly fashion continues to grow.

Celebrity Favourite, Now for Everyone

Vitamin A’s high-end collections have been worn by celebrities like Hilary Duff, Ashlee Simpson, Elsa Hosk, and Shanina Shaik — but this Target-exclusive line puts those signature beach vibes within reach for the average shopper.

Whether you’re heading to a pool party, lounging on the beach, or simply soaking up the sun in your backyard, the Vitamin A for Target line offers stylish, mindful options for every kind of summer adventure.

Beyoncé has once again blurred the lines between fashion, technology, and cultural spectacle. On the opening night of her much-anticipated ‘Cowboy Carter Tour’ in Los Angeles, she stunned the audience not just with her voice, but with an unforgettable visual masterpiece: a high-tech LED dress crafted by Japanese designer Kunihiko Morinaga of Anrealage.

This wasn’t just any stage outfit. Worn during her performance of “Daughter,” the dress was embedded with 35,000 full-color LED lights, each programmed to shift and shimmer in real-time with the music. The result? A living, breathing work of art that transformed her body into a digital canvas—morphing through tartan prints, golden sequins, American flag motifs, and eventually fading into cosmic darkness.

A Vision Born in Japan, Perfected in LA

The idea for the dress came after Morinaga showcased a similar concept during Anrealage’s Fall 2025 “Screen” collection at Paris Fashion Week. Beyoncé’s longtime stylist Shiona Turini, inspired by the futuristic collection, invited Morinaga to collaborate on a custom piece that would elevate the visual storytelling of the Cowboy Carter Tour.

Morinaga, known for merging fashion with cutting-edge innovation, accepted the challenge. He and his team spent weeks traveling between Tokyo and Los Angeles, working to build a performance-ready piece that honored Japanese craftsmanship while meeting the demands of a global superstar’s live stage.

Technology Meets Tradition

At the heart of the design is Anrealage’s signature LED Textile—a fabric that functions like a screen, thanks to its ability to display real-time visuals. To bring this ambitious concept to life, Morinaga partnered with Mplusplus, a Japanese firm headed by Minoru Fujimoto, renowned for integrating lighting systems into textiles.

The wireless control system they developed allowed off-stage teams to sync the LED visuals with stage lighting and Beyoncé’s choreography in real time. The level of coordination required was immense. The team conducted extensive rehearsals to align the visual transitions on the dress with the music’s emotional flow and the stage’s complex lighting cues.

As Morinaga explained, “We enlarged the graphic elements of the LED design and made fine adjustments to brightness levels up until the final stages. Synchronization was everything.”

Inspired by Japanese Architecture and American Identity

Interestingly, the dress wasn’t just futuristic in its tech. Its fabric was inspired by the azekura, a type of ancient Japanese storehouse known for its breathability and structured form. The textile was engineered to block light from the front while allowing RGB light from the back to shine through—creating a mesmerizing optical effect.

This thoughtful construction allowed for seamless transitions throughout Beyoncé’s performance: from tartan reds and blues to sequin textures, lace trompe-l’oeils, and cathedral-like stained glass imagery. Each motif served as both fashion and narrative—symbolizing different aspects of identity, femininity, power, and patriotism.

At one point, the dress glowed in the red, white, and blue of the American flag, before melting into monochrome and finally dissolving into a cosmic lightscape. As Morinaga described it, “It was like watching a star being born, live onstage.”

More Than Just a Dress

What Beyoncé wore wasn’t just clothing—it was a visual symphony that merged couture with code, elegance with electricity. And it took over a month and a half to bring it all together, from conception to final rehearsal.

“For us, this was more than a fashion piece—it was a cultural moment,” said Morinaga. “At Paris Fashion Week, what we presented was a glimpse into the future. But when Beyoncé wore it, it became the present. She turned it into a story, a performance, and a memory that will live on.”

And that’s the power of Beyoncé: she doesn’t just wear fashion, she transforms it. She brings visionary concepts to life on stage and propels them into pop culture history. Her partnership with Anrealage isn’t just a fusion of East and West, or tradition and technology—it’s a celebration of the boundless possibilities of fashion when imagination leads the way.

In a world where live performances are often forgotten once the final note fades, Beyoncé’s LED dress made sure this one would be remembered—etched not just in memory, but in light.