The 'It-Bag' Economy vs. Structural Efficiency
Today's news highlights a bifurcation in retail strategy for 2026. While Tapestry proves that a single viral product (the Tabby) can buoy financials against a downturn, operational efficiency remains paramount, evidenced by Designer Brands' restructuring. The appointment of Pieter Mulier at Versace suggests a creative pivot to reinvigorate the brand's identity within the high-luxury sphere.
The Ledger
This is where the deals are brokered and the visions are set. The Ledger dives into the high-stakes business of commerce, from quarterly earnings and M&A activity to the executive maneuvers shaping the world’s biggest brands. We go beyond the ticker symbol to explain how corporate decisions dictate global trends.
Versace Appoints Pieter Mulier as Creative Director
In a major shakeup for the Italian fashion house, Versace—identified in reports as Prada-owned in this 2026 timeline—has appointed Pieter Mulier, formerly of Alaïa, as its new creative director.
Tapestry Lifts Forecasts on 'Tabby' Handbag Craze
Tapestry has raised its annual targets for the second time, driven by blowout holiday demand for its Coach Tabby handbag, signaling strength in the affordable luxury segment despite broader market headwinds.
Designer Brands (DSW) Confirms Layoffs
The parent company of DSW is reducing its workforce to simplify organizational structure and reduce complexity, reflecting ongoing operational adjustments in the footwear retail sector.
The Street
Where brand meets culture. The Street is our pulse on the consumer, tracking the drops, the subcultures, and the social shifts that turn products into icons. It’s about the "why" behind the want, focusing on how retail lives in our daily lives, from flagship pop-ups to the grassroots movements disrupting the status quo.
NYFW Spotlights American Brands Bucking Luxury Slowdown
As New York Fashion Week begins, the spotlight is on resilient American brands that have managed to grow despite a global cooling in luxury spending.
Miami's Luxury Hospitality Boom
The luxury lifestyle sector continues to expand in key hubs, with new rankings highlighting the top luxury hotels in Miami for 2026, reinforcing the city's status as a high-net-worth destination.
The Lab
The future of retail is being built here. The Lab explores the technical backbone of commerce, from AI-driven logistics and sustainable material science to the evolution of the digital storefront. We deconstruct the innovations—both hardware and software—that are redefining the boundary between the brand and the buyer.
