Summary
- Armani Group was fined $4 million for misleading sustainability claims and illegal labor practices, while 1,000 union GUCCI employees threatened to strike on unpaid welfare incentives. In more optimistic news, Ralph Lauren’s net revenue rose 30% in the first quarter of 2025, and the company is improving its fiscal year outlook despite global economic uncertainty.
- Zendaya has co-created a new footwear model called CloudZone Moon and Swiss Brand On, while Marc Jacobs has released the new ’72 Spring Sneaker, a Y2K-inspired technical runner.
- Icelandic brand 66°North celebrates its upcoming 100th anniversary at Copenhagen Fashion Week, showing off its history, the SS26 collection and the Central Wibter Initiative.
Luxury labor crackdown: Armani fined $4 million for greening
Italian regulators hit Armani The group was fined $4 million for misleading ethical and social responsibility claims. The fine comes after a one-year court-management immorality discovered that the company outsourced the production of leather goods to third parties, violated health and safety regulations and hired illegal workers. Armani denied the request and intended to appeal the decision. This action is part of Italy’s ongoing regulatory efforts to keep luxury brands accountable for labor and manufacturing practices.
Gucci is in a state of turmoil as 1,000 employees threaten to strike
joint Gucci Italian employees, represented by unions Filmams CGIL, Fisascat Cisl and Uiltucs, have declared a “state of turmoil” and threatened to strike. About 1,000 retail and logistics workers participated dryfailed to pay the promised welfare bonuses for the period 2022-2024. The scandal is a pivotal moment for Gucci, with sales falling sharply, adding to a growing number of labor-like scandals that affect other major luxury brands in the industry.
Zendaya’s first contour co-created with On for the first time
Zedaya and Swiss brands exist Has collaborated to develop a new version and campaign called “Be Avery You” with a new footwear model, Cloudzone Moon. Although the partners have campaigned before, the new sneakers mark the first time Zendaya has co-created a silhouette with the brand. The edition also includes event clothing capsules designed by Zendaya and celebrity designers Legal cockroachrooted in their creative journey as collaborators over the years. The campaign film directed by Bardia Zeinali features Law Roach-style Zendaya and explores ideas for embracing various aspects of identity. Currently, CloudZone Moon sneakers are available in online and physical stores around the world.
Ralph Lauren’s net increase of 30% 2025
Ralph Lauren Corp reported net revenues rose 30% in Q1 2025, which led the company to improve its fiscal year outlook. This positive performance beat analyst expectations, attributed to strong sales growth in North America (12%), Europe (10%) and Asia (18%). After the news, the company’s stock rose by more than 3%, an increase of 90% last year’s growth. The figures are attributed to the strategic price increase of Ralph Lauren, which is used to mitigate tariff uncertainty and reduce the impact of consumer spending. Despite the good results, the company maintained a cautious optimism tone due to new responsibilities and the potential of an inflationary environment.
Marc Jacobs’ new 72 spring sneakers
Mark Jacobs New ’72 Spring sneakers have been released, a tech runner with Y2K style, marking a major shift in the brand’s often dramatic footwear. Designed in collaboration with product development studios, the shoe has a slim profile with busy mesh and technical overlays, a dazzling color scheme, expressive materials, and classic black and white. The sneakers are priced at $225 and are available at the brand’s online stores and select retailers. As rumors spread, a new outline of the brand arrived LVMH Considering selling labels.
66° North celebrates the centenary at Copenhagen Fashion Week SS26
Icelandic performance wear brand, North 66°celebrate the upcoming 100th anniversary Copenhagen Fashion Week SS26 With an immersive exhibition titled “100 Years of Progress. Still Achievements for Life.” The event demonstrates the brand’s history, its new SS26 series and dedication to durability through features like Wind Machine and Gore-Tex® Weather Simulator. The exhibition also highlights the brand’s 100-year-old repair program, which includes an on-site repair station and studios inspired by its factory. CEO Helgióskarsson highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation, craftsmanship and making lasting clothing in a statement about the display cabinet.
