John Galliano might have his comeback yet. Mr. Galliano, ousted from his creative director position at Dior for Anti-Semitic rants just days before showing the brand’s fall 2011 collection, is still in talks with designer Oscar de la Renta involving a position his namesake brand. This news comes after Mr. de la Renta’s appointal of Mr. Galliano as “designer in residence” earlier this year. Oscar de la Renta president Alex Bolen stated, “As we have said before, we are deeply impressed with John’s talent and would love to find a way to work with him in the future. To date, we have not found that way,” per WWD.
Meanwhile, following Hudson Bay Co.’s big acquisition of Saks Fifth Avenue last week, department store Neiman Marcus is searching for an IPO, and allegedly has investors lined up. There was once a rumor that Saks and Neiman Marcus would merge, but this is very unlikely given last week’s news. However, Neiman Marcus seems to be making a good decision, based on the recent IPO profits from brands such as Michael Kors and Tod’s, signaling strength in the luxury industry. Additionally, according to numerous reports, the luxury housing industry is booming.
Following the news of LVMH’s acquisition of a hotel in St. Barth’s last week, Frette announced its intent this week to broaden its product lines with a collaboration with Harry’s of London. Frette by Harrys of London will include luxury footwear, high-end accessories and gifts for the home, beach and travel. The collection will be relevant to current Frette products at least in terms of tactile elements – soft, sporty leather and suede moccasins, fragrances, porcelain and home accessories inspired by Frette’s signature textiles are just some of the items in the new collection.
Niche luxury is becoming less prevalent, with more brands looking to expand into lifestyle brands to stay top of mind with all consumers. Whether or not this is a good move for brands is still to be seen, but brands no longer want to be known as just categorical, but multi-faceted.