Missed out on the fashion chatter this week? We’ve got you covered. Every week, our inbox is flooded with hundreds of press releases, but we made it our mission to sift through all the noise so you don’t have to. Here’s your quick recap of all the key fashion news from Dec. 14 to Dec. 20, served up in bite-sized pieces so you can catch up fast…
Pharrell Williams Named UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador
Louis Vuitton menswear creative director Pharrell Williams has been named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, speaking to a gathering of about 800 students at the organization’s Paris headquarters. In his acceptance speech, Williams expressed astonishment at his journey, discussing the critical point humanity faces, emphasizing unity and the power of dreams. He outlined his commitment to leveraging education to balance opportunities for marginalized groups, reflecting his belief that one’s background should not determine their future. Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s director-general, highlighted the significance of Williams’ ambassadorship, especially as he is the first American to receive this honor since the U.S. rejoined UNESCO.
Jonathan Anderson’s Pulls Loewe From Men’s Paris Fashion Week Schedule
The schedule for Paris Fashion Week’s Fall/Winter 2024 men’s shows has been announced, featuring over 68 presentations including runway events, with an additional 28 couture houses displaying at the end of January. A significant absence this season is Jonathan Anderson from Loewe, whose shows are typically a highlight; however, Loewe plans to present its menswear and womenswear collections on a yet-to-be-disclosed date amidst rumors of Anderson’s potential move to Dior. The men’s events are set to begin on Jan. 21 with Auralee and will wrap up on the 26th with Peter Copping’s show for Lanvin.
Meanwhile, Jacquemus Returns to Paris Fashion Week
Simon Porte Jacquemus is making a much-anticipated return to Paris Men’s Fashion Week in January 2025 after a five-year hiatus. Known for his dramatic runway shows and minimalist style, Jacquemus will showcase his collection on Jan. 26 at 2 P.M. during the event’s closing day, highlighting the Fall 2026 collections. Reports suggest the show might be co-ed, featuring both men’s and women’s designs on the same runway. Since 2020, Jacquemus has opted out of the official fashion week schedule to launch his designs independently from traditional platforms. His last appearances at Paris Fashion Week were in January 2020 for menswear and March 2019 for womenswear.
COMME des GARÇONS Reimagines Burberry’s Iconic Trench Coat
COMME des GARÇONS, led by Rei Kawakubo, has once again teamed up with British heritage luxury brand Burberry to reimagine one of the world’s most iconic outerwear pieces, the Long Kensington Heritage Trench Coat. This collaboration marks their second partnership, following last year’s release of two coats that featured tartan and fur details. This latest iteration maintains the classic trench coat’s integrity but introduces a bold, punk-inspired twist with hand-studded pyramid studs adorning the shoulder lapel and upper arms, presented in the traditional tan color.
Jil Sander Launched Its First Fine Jewelry Line
Jil Sander continues to expand its offerings with the recent launch of its first fine jewelry line and a new premium fragrance set for January 2025. The jewelry collection debuted exclusively at the brand’s new store in Tokyo’s Ginza district and features pieces that will roll out globally in Jil Sander stores over the next year. Known for modern design and exceptional quality, Jil Sander’s range includes ready-to-wear clothing, accessories, and now, fine jewelry crafted from 18K white gold and rhodium-plated settings adorned with lab-grown diamonds. These designs utilize natural shapes, embodying simplicity and sophistication. The collection, made using 3D printing and numerical control machines for minimal waste, includes unique items like a welded choker, everyday earrings, a hollow ring, and a matching bracelet, all showcasing the brand’s signature imperfect finish that enhances individuality.
