THE DISAPPEARING MIDDLE
Fashion has always existed across a spectrum. At one end sits luxury. At the other, fast fashion. Somewhere in between used to live the industry’s backbone: the middle price point. That middle is disappearing.
For decades, this was where many brands comfortably existed. They were not luxury houses commanding four-figure price tags, but they were also not competing with garments sold for less than the price of lunch.
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These brands offered quality fabrics, thoughtful design and a price that felt attainable without feeling disposable. Today, that space is becoming harder to occupy.
Ultra-fast fashion has trained consumers to expect incredibly low prices and constant newness, while luxury continues to push its pricing higher. The result is a widening gap, with many independent brands finding themselves stuck in the middle.
At the same time, the fashion industry has spent years talking to consumers about sustainability. The intention has been good, but the messaging has become relentless. Words like ethical, responsible and sustainable are now often met with scepticism rather than curiosity, particularly as accusations of greenwashing dominate the conversation.
Consumers are tired of hearing about it.
But the bigger issue may be something else entirely. Many shoppers simply do not understand what they are wearing anymore. Fabric composition, garment construction and production scale rarely enter the conversation. Instead, price becomes the primary comparison point.
Influencer culture has not helped. Social feeds are filled with styling videos featuring brands like Zara, H&M and COS, presented as aspirational yet attainable fashion. What rarely gets
discussed is the difference between a garment designed to last years and one designed to last a season.
Retailers see the result of this every day. Customers admire a beautifully made piece in store, appreciate the design and quality, then hesitate when they see the price tag. Somewhere in the back of their mind sits the knowledge that something similar can be purchased online for far less.
What gets lost in that moment is the reality of what it takes to make a garment well.
The middle price point has long been where creativity thrives and where many independent designers build their businesses. If that space continues to shrink, fashion risks becoming a two-tier system of extremes: luxury on one side and disposable fashion on the other.
Rebuilding the middle may require something the industry has stepped away from in recent years. Education. Because until consumers understand what they are wearing, the middle of the market will remain the hardest place to stand.
ASSOMAC AROUND THE WORLD SUPPORTS
INTERNATIONALISATION
Assomac has launched the 2026 “Assomac Around the World” programme, aimed at supporting the internationalisation pathways of Italian manufacturers of machinery and technologies for the tanning, footwear and leather goods industries.
Exports are an essential lever for the resilience of the Italian technology system and for enhancing its excellence, particularly amid geopolitical instability and rising competitive pressure in global markets.
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RABANNE ICONS REIMAGINED IN RED
Since their creation, FAME and PHANTOM have become Rabanne icons.
Drawing upon the Maison’s legendary fashion codes, they represent contemporary fragrance signatures for the iconic Parisian it-girl and the elusive night owl with a rock-and-roll soul.
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ID DUNEDIN FASHION WEEK 2027 ANNOUNCED
D Dunedin Fashion Inc. is excited to announce the dates for the next iD Dunedin Fashion Week: 15 – 21 March 2027. The 2025 event wowed 2,400 attendees at Dunedin’s iconic Railway Station, showcasing more than 60 designer collections. The runway featured a selection of Aotearoa’s top ready-to-wear Winter collections and a cutting-edge lineup of International Emerging Designers Awards finalists. A call for established and emerging designers to participate in the 2027 event will be issued soon.
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NZFW 2026 RECEIVES GOVT SUPPORT AFTER A DECADE
New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) has announced the dates for its 2026 return.
Following an incredibly successful 2025 event that hosted celebrated designers, New Zealand Fashion Week will once again be held at Shed 10 in Auckland, reaffirming the iconic waterfront venue as the home of the country’s premier fashion event.
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PINTEREST 2026 PREDICTIONS
Trends are growing 4.4 times faster than they were seven years ago.
According to Pinterest Predicts, in 2026, consumers will seek comfort, authenticity, and optimism to quiet the constant noise of the world and social media, with 21 predictions that focus on personal exploration in three key ways. READ THE FULL STORY ONLINE
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accounting, reporting & analysis
EXPLORING THE FUTURE OF FASHION AT FASHION INSTYLE
“NEXT@Fashion InStyle” returning bigger and bolder: An ultimate spotlight zone pushing the boundaries of material innovation and creative reimagination.
In a world where fashion is no longer just about how things look, but how they feel, function, and evolve, this is where tomorrow’s style is being built today. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Fashion InStyle 2026 will be held from 27 to 30 April at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Building on last year’s momentum, NEXT@ Fashion InStyle will once again lead the charge—showcasing how next-gen materials are transforming the industry, driving sustainability, and reshaping what fashion can be.
As one of Asia’s leading fashion
events, Fashion InStyle brings together hundreds of global exhibitors across specialised zones. Covering textiles, fashion technology, sustainability solutions, etc., creating a comprehensive one-stop sourcing platform for the entire fashion supply chain.
Throughout the event, a series of fashion parades will reveal the season’s most forward-thinking designs and material breakthroughs. Alongside, a lineup of seminars and networking sessions will dive deep into the topics defining tomorrow, such as sustainability, innovative technologies, and fashion trends, giving you the insights and connections to lead what’s next.
NEXT@Fashion InStyle: Continuing the Revolution, Co-Exploring Material Potential
The NEXT@Fashion InStyle exhibition zone continues to be funded by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the Hong Kong SAR Government, and the Philippines is the Featured Partner. The fair is privileged to be empowered by the Philippine Trade and Investment Centre-Hong Kong (“PTIC”) and the Centre for International Trade Expositions and Missions (“CITEM”). This collaboration brings together 30 elite Philippine suppliers, highlighting the nation’s unique advantages and core competencies in the global fashion arena. In collaboration with approximately 60 exhibitors from various countries and regions, we are jointly building this textile trade platform that integrates a global perspective with local craftsmanship. We are honoured to have Self-
Portrait’s Founder and Creative Director, Han Chong, as the ambassador again. Centred around three key themes—Cultural & Heritage, Sustainability, and Technology & Functionality—the zone features collaborative projects that demonstrate the boundless potential of diverse materials. Professional seminars will also delve into the application of ecofashion and innovative textile trends, building an industry-leading platform for knowledge exchange.
Local Design Units: A Trio of Culture, Sustainability, and Technology
NEXT@Fashion InStyle is collaborating with internationally renowned designers and local design talent. Han Chong joins forces with six burgeoning Hong Kong designers and brands. Utilising forward-looking materials sourced from 8 global suppliers, they have crafted five cross-disciplinary projects that deliver a "Fashion Shock" through craftsmanship, material interpretation, and diverse patchwork:
• Sustainable Fabric × Toki Wong & Lusana Xu – For the first time, 100% biodegradable and thermally AlgaFila is introduced into padding designs, interwoven with the ultra-resilient and elastic breakthrough fibre Nanoflex. Technological innovation in dyeing breaks limitations to present vibrant, sustainable fashion.
• Denim Fabric × Jason Ying – Silky Tencel denim is boldly patched with sustainable leather elements, while knit accessories are masterfully integrated to refine the details. The sensory collision of contrasting textures optimises the wearing experience, interpreting a sophisticated style that balances fluidity with eco-responsibility.
• Self-Developed Fabric × Ponder.er –This experimental presentation utilises several self-developed innovative fabrics. By reconstructing fibre structures and textures, it explores the infinite expressiveness and application potential of next-generation materials in fashion design.
• Everyday Fabric × WILSONKAKI –Combining diverse all-natural textiles with mycelium fibres and the world’s
lightest H2 material, this project pioneers “trim-to-fabric” reversal and collage techniques to create a sensory-breaking material trial.
• Traditional Craft Fabric × Tigerstrolling – Merging intangible cultural heritage Song brocade with denim and local Hong Kong elements, it overcomes the production and application limitations of traditional crafts. Balancing ruggedness and refinement, it achieves a contemporary evolution of heritage transformation and local aesthetics.
Five Lifestyle Exhibitions Held Simultaneously, "EXHIBITION+" comprehensive upgrades to the procurement experience
Fashion InStyle will take place alongside Home InStyle, the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, the Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair, and DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong, enabling seamless crossindustry sourcing and maximising synergy.
To further support buyers, Fashion InStyle will continue to adopt the "EXHIBITION+" hybrid model, with services running from 20 April to 7 May. Seamlessly integrating online and offline sourcing, buyers can discover products and services not only at the physical fair but also through the Click2Match smart business-matching platform and hktdc.com Sourcing.
During the exhibition, the HKTDC Marketplace App's "Scan2Match" function enables buyers to scan exhibitors’ unique QR codes, save their preferred suppliers, access product details, and continue online discussions both during and after the event— ensuring seamless and efficient followups anytime, anywhere.
The HKTDC has also partnered with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and local enterprises to provide exclusive buyer privileges. These offers include dining, air tickets, and hotels, enabling buyers to enjoy Hong Kong’s unique charm while attending the fairs. For details, please refer to the fair’s official website. Join Fashion InStyle to explore the future of fashion, embrace the storm of transformation, and redefine the material frontier.
INTRODUCING OFFICE HOURS
Mi Piaci has unveiled its Autumn Winter 2026 collection, Office Hours, a range that reflects the ongoing influence of the corp core movement while offering a contemporary take on modern workwear style.
As professional wardrobes continue to evolve, the collection explores what it means to feel polished and confident in the workplace. Classic tones and timeless silhouettes are reinterpreted with subtle exaggeration and playful detailing, creating a balance between traditional corporate dressing and individual expression.
Grounded in clean lines and neutral colourways, Office Hours draws on tailored influences and refined design elements that mirror the structure of modern workwear. The collection focuses on versatile footwear designed to move seamlessly between professional settings and everyday life.
Key styles include sleek flats, elegant pointed toe silhouettes and refined designs accented with bold pattern
details in seasonal hues. The range combines understated sophistication with contemporary updates, delivering elevated essentials designed to complement the modern wardrobe.
Created with the modern working woman in mind, Office Hours reflects Mi Piaci’s focus on craftsmanship, wearability and confident design. The collection offers footwear intended to support busy professional lifestyles while maintaining a polished aesthetic from morning meetings through to after hours.
With its emphasis on versatility and refined styling, Office Hours presents a considered update to classic office footwear, aligning with broader fashion trends that continue to blur the lines between professional dress codes and personal style.
ILIA BEAUTY’S NEW SKIN BLUR SERUM CONCEALER
ILIA Beauty has launched Skin Blur Serum Concealer, a soft, featherweight concealer that melts into skin for a creaseresistant, blurred 12-hour wear.
With carefully selected ingredients that harmoniously perform and protect your skin, Skin Blur Serum Concealer pushes the boundaries of clean, high-performance formulas.
Skin Blur Serum Concealer boosts elasticity and firmness, provides 12hour hydration, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and reinforces the skin barrier over time, with powerful skincare ingredients like Matrixyl 3000 Glyx peptide complex to plump, sea fennel extract to brighten and smooth, and caffeine to depuff.
Infused with powdered microspheres
that diffuse into skin, Skin Blur self sets, delivering a naturally flawless finish in 34 shades.
"Skin Blur Serum Concealer creates a soft, airbrushed canvas," said ILIA Founder, Sasha Plavsic.
"The finish is blurred versus dewy, while still hydrating, which is key. The formula, as a serum concealer, has more skincare benefits, as you wear it, Skin Blur helps make your skin better, creating a beautiful transformation over time."
Skin Blur Serum Concealer is clean, safe for sensitive skin, noncomedogenic, dermatologist-tested, vegan, and cruelty-free.
MILLER ROAD MEETS WUTHERING HEIGHTS
Fragrance has the unique power to tell a story and evoke emotion.
The name of the fragrance, "Yours & Mine", draws inspiration from the original Wuthering Heights story’s iconic line, “Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”
With Yours & Mine, Miller Road Fragrances wanted to capture the passion and emotion that runs through the movie Wuthering Heights, creating a scent that feels personal, romantic, and timeless.
Yours & Mine opens with indulgent notes of vanilla orchid and burnt sugar, strikingly contrasted by deep notes of moss, sandalwood, cedarwood, and oakwood.
Bright bergamot, deep smoke, and a sprinkle of English rose petals subtly shine through, adding complexity and creating a fragrance that evolves on skin and feels different on everyone who wears it.
VITTORIA CERETTI PERSONIFIES LA BOMBA
La Bomba by Carolina Herrera is for women who speak from the heart and own every room they are in. It is more than a fragrance; it is a way of moving through the world.
True to its name, La Bomba is a high-impact composition, crafted by master perfumers Christophe Raynaud, Quentin Bisch and Louise Turner.
A style icon with undeniable presence, Vittoria Ceretti has personified the unforgettable pure energy, exuberance, and electricity of La Bomba by Carolina Herrera in a bold and provocative campaign.
Like La Bomba, Ceretti doesn’t just arrive: she shifts the energy and leaves an indelible mark. Fearlessness, radiance, freedom take flight.
As an Italian, Ceretti has always loved fresh, romantic fragrances that are opulent and sensual. Her first fragrance memories were citrus colognes her mother bought, and she now loves experimenting with scent according to her mood, the weather, or my clothes. She said that fragrance is a tool for expression and that La Bomba was not about impressing others but about underlining one's own personality in a joyful, fearless, radiant way.
Ceretti said she loved the whole
concept and found the La Bomba woman very inspiring. Having worked in fashion for many years, she thought this project was on another level, from the campaign storyline to the aesthetics.
She filmed a spontaneous audition video on her phone, dancing outdoors in a red dress to “I Like It,” and followed her instincts.
“I am a massive fan of Carolina Herrera and Wes Gordon, so being the face of La Bomba is a true privilege. Plus, I had so much fun.”
Working with Wes Gordon and Carolina Herrera was a dream. The red and pink colour combination, Wes’ signature, felt fearless and bold, just like the fragrance. She said that wearing the made-to-measure dress from the New York atelier was magnificent.
Movement Director Stephen Galloway helped her free herself and connect to the music, and everyone was aligned creatively.
The motto of La Bomba, "Be Loud, Be Free," was really inspiring and easy for her to communicate. She said that nowadays, women are not always
encouraged to act, move, or behave freely, without restrictions or prejudices. This fragrance, however, does.
She added that what she has achieved in fashion is the result of a lot of hard work and discipline, but also of following her intuition and being herself. To her, Be Loud Be Free meant standing for what one believed in and knowing that authenticity is the key to joy.
“To me, La Bomba is a woman who knows what she is doing and isn't afraid to try something new. Trial and error are part of what she does in order to be a better version of herself. She keeps going and always reaches where she wants to go,” said Ceretti.
Describing the scent, she said it was unforgettable, richly floral with an exotic twist, the kind of scent you recognise when somebody walks into the room, providing a boost of energy and selfconfidence during the day while also adding natural elegance without being overdressed in the evening.
La Bomba celebrates the freedom to be yourself, unfiltered, unapologetic, and bold.
KOWTOW LAUNCHES NEW END-OF-LIFE INITIATIVE
Kowtow has introduced a new end-of-life initiative that transforms worn garments into organic biochar, marking a significant development in the brand’s long-standing commitment to circular design.
After two decades of producing garments made entirely from Fairtrade organic cotton, Kowtow is now extending its fibre-first approach to the final stage of a garment’s life. Through the process, end-of-life Kowtow garments can be converted into biochar, a carbon-rich material used to improve soil health and lock carbon into the ground.
The brand says it is the first fashion label globally to implement the conversion of 100 percent organic cotton garments into biochar at scale. The initiative is made possible by Kowtow’s single-fibre design approach, with garments produced from organic cotton and free from plastic trims or hardware, allowing the textile to be returned fully to the earth.
Kowtow Head of Sustainability Tessa Bradley said the initiative reflects the brand’s focus on creating regenerative systems within the fashion industry.
“By unmaking what we’ve made, we give back. This isn’t the end of a garment’s life. It’s the start of something bigger, a future where fashion becomes a force that restores, not extracts,” Bradley said.
The programme will operate through Kowtow’s Regenerate initiative, which allows customers to return garments that are no longer suitable for repair or resale. Returned garments will be deconstructed, with reusable elements such as trims and buttons separated before the cotton textile is processed into biochar.
Developed in collaboration with
Carbon Options and The Good Carbon Farm, the process involves heating the garments in a low-oxygen drum at high temperatures to convert the organic material into pure carbon. The resulting biochar has a porous structure that helps soil retain water and nutrients, supports microbial activity, and helps rebuild degraded soil.
From 2026 onward, Kowtow plans to incorporate the biochar process as a permanent pathway within its Regenerate programme, alongside existing initiatives focused on repairing, reselling and recycling garments.
The development represents another step in Kowtow’s broader strategy to design garments that can ultimately return to the earth without environmental harm.
EXPLORE ABSENCE & FORM
New Zealand label Taylor has unveiled its Autumn Winter 2026 collection, Lacuna, a contemplative exploration of absence, space and the quiet tension between form and disappearance.
Derived from the Latin word lacuna, meaning “gap” or “missing space”, the collection examines what exists not only within the garment itself but in the negative space surrounding it. The result is a restrained yet deliberate offering that continues Taylor’s long-standing dialogue between conceptual design and everyday wearability.
Visually, Lacuna is grounded in a tonal palette of charcoal, pewter and deep espresso layered through black, creating a sense of depth and shadow across the collection. Silhouettes move subtly away from traditional structure. Jackets curve and withdraw from the body, skirts fall along the diagonal, and proportions shift with quiet intention.
Classic tailoring details are reimagined throughout the range.
Unexpected placements and thoughtful construction create moments of discovery, such as a hemline recalling a waistband in the Evert Skirt and pockets repositioned away from their usual placement in the Antsa Pant. Each element reflects the brand’s ongoing exploration of form and balance.
For designer Vicki Taylor, the collection reflects the brand’s position at the intersection of creative expression and commercial design.
“We’ve been told that everyday clothing should be simple, anonymous,
unobtrusive,” said Taylor. “Taylor has chosen another path. What might have felt too conceptual now feels like our greatest strength. Why can’t style and fashion, even everyday fashion, be art?”
While the aesthetic remains restrained, the collection reinforces Taylor’s commitment to thoughtful design and individuality within the contemporary wardrobe. Designed for wearers drawn to subtle experimentation, Lacuna celebrates garments that invite curiosity and reinterpretation rather than offering immediate answers.
FROM SYMBOLIC FOLKLORE TO HERITAGE
JEWELLERY
Dukachi has brought jewellery to life through symbolic forms and natural motifs deeply rooted in European cultural heritage.
Established in Ukraine and Paris, the brand is led by sisters Anna and Yelyzaveta Knyzhenko, who transform cultural narratives into wearable pieces of art.
From celebratory breads to the mountain flowers anemone and edelweiss, to the lynx, a rare European forest dweller, along with symbols of childhood or luck shared in most European historical heritage, Dukachi reinterprets these motifs in exquisite, high-value pieces.
Crafted from 14k and 18k gold and embellished with diamonds and/or enamel, all pieces are produced inhouse in Kyiv, Ukraine. Since 2021, Dukachi has owned its own jewellery
production where master artisans craft pieces by hand, ensuring authenticity and uncompromising quality.
Dukachi’s atelier is the heart of creation, a place where craftsmanship and storytelling meet to transform heritage into timeless jewellery. The brand operates two company-owned boutiques in Ukraine, located in Kyiv and Lviv.
Each store offers a dedicated luxury experience, welcoming clients for private fittings and guiding them through collections that highlight symbols reimagined in precious materials.
Dukachi’s innovation and impact have earned it a place among the Forbes Next 250 Businesses in 2025.
EUROPEAN COASTS MEET KIWI SHORES
Sasha is a slow-crafted jewellery and accessories brand creating one-ofa-kind pieces by hand in New Zealand. Each piece is thoughtfully designed, ethically made, and created in small quantities.
Founder, Sasha Ćurin, has always been creative, drawn to art, making things, and learning new hobbies. Her mother was a big inspiration as she owned a surf and streetwear store in Auckland for nearly two decades.
Ćurin spent hours in the back room drawing, sketching, or watching new stock arrive, and sometimes tagging along to buyers’ meetings, which shaped her thoughts on design and retail.
Growing up around Omaha Beach, she also spent most of her time outdoors, collecting shells and swimming; coastal freedom still influences everything she makes.
“Jewellery started simply because I couldn’t find pieces that felt like me. I was looking for bold, personality-driven pieces, but most jewellery out there felt delicate and minimal,” said Ćurin.
“I started teaching myself the basics so I could make pieces I wanted to wear. Crochet came later, when I saw how accessories could be reinterpreted in a modern way.”
After university, Ćurin moved to Croatia and spent a lot of time along the coast, wearing jewellery she’d made herself, and people would stop to ask where it was from.
She soon realised there was genuine interest beyond friends and family
and identified a gap in New Zealand's accessories market for pieces with more personality and substance.
With Sasha, Ćurin has brought a fresh design sensibility and a slower approach, featuring pieces that aren't trend-driven or mass-produced. She added that some of her favourite fashion pieces were passed down from her mother, and believed that the stories behind vintage treasures led to great conversations.
Mass-produced items don’t hold the same value, and so every Sasha piece is created with time and attention, making it special. While everything is handmade, Ćurin has structured production in small runs so stores can still reorder reliably.
“I'd love to see more stores take chances on artisanal brands, not just because it supports local creators, but because it gives customers access to something meaningful. It shifts the culture around fashion toward greater intentionality.”
At the same time, the biggest challenge has been getting in front of the right audience and showing why the pieces are different.
“The challenge hasn't been the product; it's been finding ways to get it into the right hands and spaces because I know once people experience the work, they understand what makes it special.”
Material choice also plays an important role, especially for pieces worn every day. Ćurin first discovered stainless steel jewellery while in Greece and loved that it was durable, hypoallergenic, and could be worn daily without tarnishing.
She also spent time sourcing natural
stones and pearls from international suppliers, experimenting until she found shapes, colours, and textures she loved.
“I only work with natural materials because they have a feel and energy that synthetic alternatives can’t replicate.”
For crochet bags, Ćurin came across a Portuguese company producing yarn from surplus fashion textiles, giving discarded materials a second life. The yarn is 90 percent cotton and a blend of up to 10 percent other recycled fibres.
Their philosophy on quality and sustainability aligned perfectly with Ćurin’s approach. As they are made from recycled materials, colours are often limited, so the bags are naturally small-batch.
“Premium is about the full experience I provide: quality materials, durability, and thoughtful presentation from
packaging to display. Every touchpoint is considered so the customer feels the care that went into making it. That builds trust and loyalty.”
Sasha isn't for one age or style. It's for anyone who wants pieces that feel personal, bold, and thoughtful, and Ćurin wants to keep pushing the design forward by incorporating more global influences, experimenting with new materials, and exploring categories beyond jewellery and bags.
At the same time, growth has to be strategic. Ćurin has been focused on working with the right stockists, stores that understand the value of artisanal design and want to invest in pieces with depth.
“I'm not interested in being everywhere. I'm interested in being in the right places, with partners who see what I'm building.”
MOOCHI DEBUTS PALETTE ONE: CONSTRUCT
Light catches the edges of the skyline. A soft soundtrack hums as hours unfold, and the city moves in quiet cadence. Stories emerge in the pauses, where contemporary edge meets refined poise.
The first moochi collection of 2026, Palette One: Construct, captures a woman in rhythm. Honouring shape and form, Construct opens a new chapter for moochi, curating a wardrobe designed to layer, sculpt, and carry her forward.
Palette One: Construct is a meditation on movement, texture, and form. The collection explores duality, balancing feminine softness with masculine structure, and celebrates considered, intentional dressing for the modern muse, ensuring that wherever she goes, she goes impeccably dressed.
Inspired by momentum and poise, the palette opens in soft neutrals of camel, buttermilk, and nude, before deepening into charcoal marle and rich chocolate.
Oversized silhouettes with functional detailing are juxtaposed against delicate textures. Ethereal sangria ombré chiffon introduces a light, elevated dimension to contemporary dressing, while prints range from subtle paisley and polka dots to bold animal motifs.
Across silhouettes, textures, and layering, statement pieces define the collection’s language of movement and form. The Assign Trench drapes in a relaxed, sculptural shape, its funnel neck lifting the silhouette with structured ease.
Sequin mesh catches the light in the Shimmer Top and Shimmer Dress, designed to pair effortlessly with a slip or bralette and pants. Leather adds subtle strength in the Luxe Bomber and Cocoon Encased Pant, crafted in
timeless black leather that balances structure with understated confidence. Tailoring balances relaxed suiting with sharp, menswear-inspired lines. The Balance Blazer and Custom Pant exemplify this approach, while the Logical Blazer and Shirt pair exaggerated sleeve volume with a nipped-in waist.
The Cres Coat, cropped and collarless, layers easily with a coordinating scarf cape in soft marled melton wool, creating pared-back yet considered shapes for effortless dressing throughout the season.
Building on structured tailoring and sculpted silhouettes, knitwear takes centre stage, layering luxurious textures with deliberate detailing. Brushed mohair, ribbed knits, and sparkling yarns create expressive silhouettes that move with the body.
The Inform V Sweater falls long over the hips, pairing with the Hammered Satin Skirt in buttermilk, while the Fronted Longline Knit Tee in charcoal marle, a bestseller reimagined, adds endless layering opportunity.
The launch of the exclusive footwear collection presents a rich array of textures, from snakeskin leather and shearling to soft suede, spanning pointed flats, heeled pumps, biker boots, and knee-high leather. Each piece is thoughtfully curated to echo the palette and complete each look with considered polish.
The Aim Ballet Flat appears in sangria suede and black shearling, while the matching Aim Heel makes a statement
in sangria snakeskin. The Prime Boot features a detachable biker harness, contrast tan lining, and a chunky sole, combining edge with versatility.
For a more refined silhouette, the Refine Boot offers a heeled ankle option, while the Pointer Boot extends to the knee with a sleek, sculpted shape. The Fold Loafer blends subtle innovation with timeless form through its folded tongue detail and contrast tan rubber sole.
Six & Seven extends Palette One into relaxed, utility-focused dressing, introducing grounded, practical energy to the collection. Oversized silhouettes with soft cinching take shape in the Draft Tee and Draft Dress, while the Conceal Shacket and Inquiry Jean lead in signature camo, creating a confident, directional statement.
Lightweight quilted puffers layer with ease, and knitwear anchors the line with softness. Muted greys, deep sangria, and indigo tones flow through the collection, shaping a wardrobe for effortless layering and movement.
Weekend footwear styles are elevated with the Sprint Trainer in black suede or the dark sangria Sprint Mary Jane Trainer, while the Shearl Boot pairs modern comfort with tan suede, lace-up construction, and a shearling cuffed detail.
Palette One: Construct unfolds under two distinct labels: moochi and Six & Seven, with new pieces ready to be discovered, layered, and carried through the season.
BEHIND EVERY ORIGINAL
Levi’s has launched “Behind Every Original”, a bold new global campaign that celebrates the people who push culture forward with one cheeky twist.
Debuted during the Super Bowl with the anthem film
“Backstory,” directed by Kim Gehrig, Levi’s flipped expectations by showcasing both celebrity icons and everyday originals, all seen exclusively from behind, letting them share their game-changing Levi’s backstories.
For over 150 years, Levi’s jeans have been the uniform of cultural catalysts who step off the beaten path and shape what comes next in music, sport, fashion and art. It has been the uniform of the movements and moments that have changed the world and shaped culture, worn by those pursuing progress.
“One of the things I love most about the ‘Behind Every Original’ campaign is that it threads together a story only Levi’s can tell,” said Kenny Mitchell, global chief marketing officer of Levi Strauss & Co.
“This global campaign celebrates our place at the centre of music, sports and fashion culture as well as in the closets of fans across generations. It’s fitting to have it launch during the Super Bowl being played at Levi’s Stadium, which has become a cultural moment in its own right, through the unifying power of sports."
“Backstory” features Doechii, ROSÉ, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Questlove, Stefanie Giesinger, and Disney-Pixar “Toy Story” character Woody, among other Originals.
Every frame is a celebration of the backside in all its denim-covered glory: strutting, dancing, moving and, above all, living in their Levi's.
The film captured the irreplicable
swagger of those creating what comes next while honouring the icons who came before them, from the effortless cool of George Michael’s “Faith” era to a modern reimagining of the iconic “Born in the U.S.A.” album cover.
Rooted in real cultural moments Levi’s has authentically lived through, the story spans generations and invites everyone to see themselves reflected in the brand.
James Brown’s “Get Up Offa That Thing” infused joy and energy into the film’s soundtrack, with a nod to denimclad behinds that serves as an anthem for movers and change-makers.
Shot over six days in Los Angeles, Oklahoma City, and London, the production team focused on casting real cowboys, construction workers, climbers, and youth to ensure authenticity. The team also collaborated with Doechii’s choreographer Robbie Blue to craft her show-stopping dance moves that wrap up the spot.
Levi’s denim is at the very heart of this campaign. From old-school cowboys to '80s music video icons to modern-day moments, the styling spans the breadth of Levi’s brand’s legacy.
Doechii sports Low Slim Boot cut jeans, while Rosé dons Loose Boot cut jeans with a Relaxed Fit Trucker.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander can be seen in 578 Baggy jeans and a Relaxed Fit Trucker, while Questlove rocks his 505 Regular Fit jeans. Stefanie Giesinger brings it home in her Ribcage Slim jeans and Super Soft Long-sleeve Polo.
The range of styles and eras serves as a reminder that the Levi’s brand has been behind some of life's biggest (and smallest) moments for over a century.
STITCHING PACIFIC IDENTITY INTO GLOBAL FASHION
Temesia Tuicaumia stands at the vibrant intersection of creativity, education, and cultural advocacy.
As a fashion designer, education specialist, and creative entrepreneur rooted in Suva, Tuicaumia's journey is a tapestry of threads woven from family tradition, Pacific heritage, and a relentless drive to elevate indigenous identity onto global runways.
Tuicaumia's fascination with fashion began at home, watching his mother craft garments with skill and ingenuity. This early exposure sowed the seeds of creativity, leading him to pursue design as a means of self-expression and cultural affirmation.
Experiences abroad highlighted the absence of Pacific identity in mainstream fashion, sparking his resolve to bridge the gap by celebrating Fijian and Pacific aesthetics in authentic, contemporary ways.
“Pacific identity was seldom on the runway or in global fashion conversations. I felt drawn to bridge that gap, to celebrate the Fijian and Pacific aesthetic, heritage and voice in a way that’s authentic and contemporary.”
Moreover, Tuicaumia's encounters in professional settings, where his island identity was misunderstood or undervalued, fuelled a determination to wield fashion as a tool for representation and cultural affirmation.
Although his journey into fashion began at the age of thirteen, with a live commission for the Hibiscus Festival in Suva, by eighteen, he was already recognised as a designer across Fiji, with TEMESIA.CO launched more recently.
TEMESIA.CO is a fashion line inspired by the vision of reimagining traditional Fijian menswear, most notably the sulu vakataga, in a global context. The line bridges island life and urban sensibilities, infusing culture with modernity.
Fiji’s fashion industry is on an upward trajectory. Growth is evident in design talent, runway platforms like Fiji Fashion
Week, manufacturing, and retail interest in Pacific identity. Challenges persist, including fabric sourcing, scaling up, and export logistics, but momentum is strong, especially for brands with distinctive narratives.
The international potential for designers from Fiji and the Pacific is substantial. Success hinges on quality manufacturing, consistent branding, export know-how, and international networks.
At the same time, education is crucial, and Tuicaumia has encouraged emerging designers to pursue learning, stay humble, and prepare for the business side alongside creativity.
“Fashion is communication; how one presents themselves shapes perceptions, and in a fast-paced world, the cover matters as much as the content.”
New Zealand serves as a vital gateway for Pacific designers. Its multicultural market is receptive to indigenous design and storytelling, offering opportunities for collaboration and visibility, and Tuicaumia's experience presenting in New Zealand affirmed the genuine interest in Pacific identity on the runway.
He has participated in New Zealand fashion shows, partnering with indigenous collectives and networks. Wearing the sulu vakataga traditional
dress, he has experienced a strong connection with the audience and their respect.
Incorporating Fijian ceremonial items such as the mat and masi into the runway underscored both the challenges and opportunities of adapting cultural roots to global spaces.
“By entering the New Zealand market, I hope to not only grow my brand but also raise the profile of Fijian and Pacific fashion, open pathways for collaboration, and contribute to cultural exchange and visibility.”
The New Zealand rollout for TEMESIA. CO is currently in the planning and partnership phase. Tuicaumia aims to launch a curated selection within 12 to 18 months, pending the finalisation of distribution, retail partnerships, and supply chain logistics.
Boutique retailers and indigenousfashion platforms in Auckland are among the prospective partners, with KĀHUI COLLECTIVE and KIRI NATHAN named as collaborators.
While fashion design and the TEMESIA.CO brand remains a major commitment; Tuicaumia's professional scope is broad. His roles in education by working with the Pacific Nations School, early-childhood development in Fiji and advocacy/community development complement his creative pursuits.
competitor messaging:
THE STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE BRANDS ARE OVERLOOKING
In markets where every brand has access to the same channels and tools, advantage no longer comes from visibility alone; it comes from intelligence.
Campaigns are louder. Attention is fragmented. Consumers are exposed to more messaging than ever before. In this environment, standing out is not simply a creative challenge; it’s a strategic one.
According to a Forbes survey, 46.67% of brands said standing out in a crowded marketplace remains a primary challenge.
The real advantage lies not in spending more, but in understanding more about what competitors are saying, how they are positioning themselves, and how the market is responding.
Brands that treat competitor messaging as intelligence rather than noise are better equipped to differentiate, shape perception, and lead market conversations.
THE STRATEGIC VALUE OF COMPETITOR MESSAGING
Messaging is more than slogans or campaign copy; it reveals your competitors’ strategies. It signals how value is being defined in the market, which trends are gaining momentum, where competitors are investing attention, and how positioning is evolving.
For CMOs and their teams, this visibility provides early insight into how they approach the market to stand out. By understanding competitors’ language and positioning, brands can:
• Differentiate with precision: Stand out by highlighting a unique value that competitors overlook.
• Anticipate market shifts: Detect emerging themes, claims, or campaign narratives that signal broader change.
• Reduce risk: Avoid reactive messaging that mirrors competitors or loses relevance in a fast-moving environment.
In saturated channels, this intelligence is critical to protecting both growth and brand equity.
FROM DATA TO DECISION
Traditional approaches to competitor monitoring are often manual, inconsistent, and retrospective. Market insights sit in one system. Customer data in another. Internal performance metrics elsewhere. Without integration, competitor intelligence remains descriptive rather than actionable.
This is where an AI-powered retail intelligence approach using EDITED’s Three Lens View becomes powerful. By combining real-time market data, customer insights, and internal performance data, brands gain a unified view of how messaging performs within the broader competitive landscape. When market data is integrated into strategic workflows, teams can:
• Track messaging trends in real time –Understand how competitors position products, promotions, and campaigns, and how those narratives evolve across seasons.
• Analyze what resonates with shoppers – Quantify which messaging claims and themes drive engagement, conversion, and commercial performance.
• Identify whitespace opportunitiesUse historical and trend data to uncover gaps in competitor positioning where your brand can confidently lead the narrative.
• Monitor historical shifts in positioning – Recognise how competitor strategies change over time, helping anticipate future market direction.
• Align messaging decisions with performance outcomes – Connect market intelligence with internal results to ensure campaigns support broader commercial objectives.
• Accelerate strategy through a single source of truth – Replace fragmented insights with an integrated view that enables faster, more confident decision-making.
One customer of EDITED described the impact of this approach:
“In the past, our storytelling was not cohesive. Now, [with EDITED], we can plan our storytelling based on assortment, decide how long stories
should live, and how to pulse things throughout the season. EDITED allows us to strategize and plan in a way that makes sense for our business.- Laura Snell, Director of VM, Venus
When insights are centralised and accessible, messaging becomes intentional rather than instinctive, shifting from reactive campaign planning to proactive market leadership.
CONCLUSION
Competitor messaging is not a marketing task; it’s a competitive intelligence capability. Brands that systematically analyse market positioning and integrate those insights into decision-making are better equipped to differentiate, adapt, and lead.
With a structured intelligence framework such as EDITED’s Three Lens View, competitor messaging becomes actionable insight rather than background noise.
In a market defined by speed and saturation, the advantage belongs to brands that understand not only what they are saying, but what the entire market is saying around them.
That is the difference between reacting to the market and shaping it.
