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On Fridays, we’ll take a breath: See below for some commentary on apparel trends I’m loving or things I’m eyeing, a fun activity to consider, and some food for thought as you enter your weekend 🙂
1/3. Food for Thought
What "winters" have made you appreciate your "summer" all the more?
Similar to how the winter allows us to appreciate the warmth of summer, what are things you've had to deal with that make you appreciate where you are now?
This week's reflection encourages us to consider the powerful role of contrast in our lives. Just as winter's chill deepens our joy in summer's warmth, past challenges often highlight the comfort and happiness of our present. Taking a moment to acknowledge the difficulties we've navigated can foster a profound sense of gratitude for our current circumstances and the resilience we've built. As you head into your weekend, I encourage you to ponder this question and give space for gratitude 🌞
2/3. Fun!
Our Impromptu Craft Brew Adventure
Back in 2020, on an incredibly windy January 1st in Chicago, our plans to grab a drink and go out to dinner were put on pause. Instead of venturing too far out to a bar or a restaurant, our hotel was right next door to a Mariano’s. We stopped in to grab some snacks but decided on a whim to create our own at-home craft beer tasting when we saw they had a ‘build-your-own'-six pack’ option in their beverage department. We didn’t approach it too scientifically, just had fun curating a six-pack of intriguing local brews mostly based off of unique label artwork that caught our eye. It was such a blast. We rated each one on both taste and artwork, making for a fun, intimate tasting experience right in our hotel room. It was random, relaxed, and surprisingly memorable.
An at-home tasting is perfect for a cozy night in or a chill get-together with friends. It’s fairly simple, but here are some tips:
It doesn’t have to be alcoholic! There are tons of unique non-alcoholic options available now, like TÖST, St. Agrestis, or Pamos. Have fun with it 🙂
Don’t overthink it! Head to your local grocery store or specialty shop and grab a few single-serve cans or bottles that pique your interest
World’s your oyster when it comes to destination! You can set up in a park, get cozy on the couch with a TV show, or gather with friends for a relaxed evening
3/3. Fashion / Retail Therapy
The Anderson Effect: Reshaping Dior's Future
In a landmark move for the Parisian powerhouse, Dior has appointed Jonathan Anderson as its sole creative director, marking the first time a single vision will oversee all lines since Christian Dior himself. This significant decision follows Anderson's transformative tenure at Loewe, where he masterfully evolved the brand from a leather goods specialist into a multifaceted luxury label celebrated for its distinctively crafted accessories, whimsical charms, and innovative designs like the unforgettable 2022 balloon pump. Anderson’s signature blend of playful surrealism and impeccable craftsmanship has consistently pushed boundaries, making him a compelling choice for Dior's future.
Loewe Balloon Heel Leather Pump
What Does This Mean for Dior?
Anderson's arrival signals an exciting shift for Dior, with several potential outcomes:
Pops of Color: Expect a departure from the largely neutral palettes favored by previous womenswear and couture director, Maria Grazia Chiuri, as Anderson is known for his vibrant use of color.
Unified Vision: With one creative director overseeing womenswear, menswear, and couture, Dior is likely aiming for a more cohesive and unified brand image across all its collections.
Infusion of Newness: LVMH's focus on revitalizing legacy brands aligns perfectly with Anderson's proven ability to inject freshness and excitement. His success in making Loewe feel new and relevant positions him perfectly to invigorate Dior amidst a challenging luxury market.
A Lesson in Ambition: The Anderson Approach
Jonathan Anderson's journey to this pivotal role offers a valuable lesson in proactive ambition. Back in 2013, when he was just 24, Anderson's burgeoning talent caught the eye of LVMH's then-head of fashion, Pierre-Yves Roussel, who acquired a minority stake in Anderson's own label, JW Anderson. Crucially, when Roussel was seeking a new design head for Loewe, it was Anderson himself who put his name forward for the position. His audacious confidence demonstrates a powerful truth: you don’t get what you don’t ask for.
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