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Sara Robertsson Jewellery Embraces Unique and Sustainable Pearls text Ulrika Lindqvist Sara Robertsson Jewellery has taken a unique approach to pearl selection, choosing handpicked, sustainably sourced gems that emphasize natural beauty and environmental consciousness. Working closely with Marc’Harit, a Copenhagen-based pearl expert known for his sustainable sourcing practices, the brand carefully selects pearls that support eco-friendly farming and fair trade. Unlike traditional jewelry brands that prioritize classic white, perfectly round pearls, Sara Robertsson Jewellery celebrates the variety in pearl shapes, colors, and sizes, which often include pearls deemed “imperfect” or as by-products in farming. “We value consciously choosing and treasuring all these kinds of pearls,” states the brand, highlighting a commitment to minimizing waste and promoting farming practices that benefit local communities. In keeping with its eco-conscious ethos, the brand uses creative in-house setting techniques that avoid harsh chemicals, ensuring each piece is crafted with care. The current collection includes traceable freshwater and Akoya pearls, with future releases set to incorporate Tahiti pearls.

Jeff Koons and Squarespace Launch New Art-Inspired Web Template text Ulrika Lindqvist Jeff Koons, renowned for his “Balloon Dog” sculpture, has teamed up with Squarespace to create the latest in the Squarespace Collection—a custom website design called Reflect. This partnership is part of Squarespace’s initiative to collaborate with top creative minds, including Björk, Magnum Photos, and Rick Rubin, to develop unique site templates. Reflect offers a modern, visually dynamic template for artists and creatives to showcase their work online, inspired by Koons’ own site revamp, which for the first time presents his complete portfolio in one place. Designed with accessibility and viewer engagement in mind, the site merges familiar design elements like grids and galleries with Koons’ signature approach to art and storytelling. Reflect and an accompanying short film, Inflate, highlight Squarespace’s commitment to democratizing design, making it accessible to a global audience in six languages, and empowering creatives worldwide. Images courtesy of Squarespace.

ARKET launches The Little Black Dress collection Text Ulrika Lindqvist This holiday season, ARKET honors the little black dress, a timeless symbol in women’s occasionwear. First introduced in 1920s Paris, the little black dress was revolutionary for its simplicity, versatility, and accessibility. ARKET’s new collection revisits this historic piece, blending its original values with modern-day ideas of functionality, elegance, and self-expression. The collection showcases four distinct styles: the backless dress, shift dress, cape dress, and fit-and-flare dress. Designed by ARKET’s in-house team of designers and dressmakers, each silhouette embodies a different form of expression, from draped fabrics to structured shapes. These dresses are created for the modern woman, offering both style and ease, whether for daytime gatherings or evening celebrations. Launching in stores and online at arket.com in winter 2024, ARKET’s Little Black Dress collection is designed to suit a variety of occasions, providing an elegant, timeless option for women seeking chic, effortless holiday wear.

LAYERED Launches Röllakan Collection: A Tribute to Scandinavian Women’s Craftsmanship text Ulrika Lindqvist On September 12, Swedish design brand LAYERED introduces the Röllakan collection, a modern interpretation of traditional Swedish women’s craftsmanship. The collection blends historical influences with contemporary design, paying homage to the classic röllakan rug. This handwoven rug is characterized by geometric and stylized patterns, often inspired by nature and folk traditions. Historically, röllakan rugs were woven by women at home and passed down as family heirlooms. With the Röllakan collection, LAYERED has revived these timeless elements, giving them a modern and harmonious expression. “LAYERED has always aimed to highlight women’s craftsmanship and art. This collection reflects that ambition, while connecting to colors and patterns with deep cultural and aesthetic significance,” explains Malin Glemme, Creative Director and CEO of LAYERED.The collection’s color palette is inspired by Swedish nature and folk art, featuring deep reds, blues, light yellows, dark ochre, and forest greens, combined with undyed white wool and black accents. The rugs are handwoven from 100% wool, designed for versatility, and are particularly suitable for kitchens and dining rooms due to their easy-care properties. Founded in 2015, LAYERED has become a prominent Swedish design brand, known for its contemporary aesthetic and dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability.

Acne Studios Unveils Fall/Winter 2024 Campaign Starring Willow Smith text Ulrika Lindqvist Acne Studios has launched its Fall/Winter 2024 campaign featuring musician and creator Willow Smith. Photographed by Jordan Hemingway, the campaign reflects the futuristic and mechanical themes introduced in the FW24 runway show. The visuals showcase Willow wearing timeless leather and denim from the new collection, capturing her unique blend of serenity and strength. The campaign draws inspiration from subcultural elements traditionally associated with leather and denim, reinterpreting these styles for the season. Willow models bold, feminine silhouettes that feature sculpted curves paired with an edgy attitude. Set against a metallic backdrop, her striking poses further emphasize the collection’s empowering aesthetic. The look is accessorized with items from the FW24 runway, such as the reimagined Multipocket ‘tool bag’ with crinkled and studded details and the Bowlina ‘bowling bag,’ now available in multiple sizes with a metal plaque. Willow’s ongoing relationship with Acne Studios is highlighted by her regular incorporation of the brand into her wardrobe. She attended the FW24 show in Paris and recently wore a piece from the collection to the Los Angeles premiere of Bad Boys: Ride or Die. Currently, she is promoting her sixth studio album, Empathogen. Reflecting on the collaboration, Willow expressed her gratitude for the experience: “The Acne Studios FW24 show in Paris was such a vibe… Our collaboration felt so natural from start to finish, I really can’t wait for this campaign to live in the world.” Acne Studios Creative Director Jonny Johansson praised Willow as a cultural icon, emphasizing her individuality and authenticity, traits that resonate with the brand’s ethos. The FW24 collection will be available at Acne Studios stores worldwide and online. Image courtesy of Jordan Hemingway

ARKET Announces Exclusive Collaboration with Penny Martin text Ulrika Lindqvist This autumn, ARKET unveils The Penny Martin Edit, a women’s capsule collection created in collaboration with Penny Martin, renowned editor of The Gentlewoman magazine. The collection offers a curated wardrobe designed for both town and country living, blending style and practicality for the modern woman. Inspired by Martin’s dual life between coastal Scotland and London, the Edit includes versatile pieces such as a double-face cashmere skirt-suit, a sleek wool crêpe dress, and commuter essentials like three-quarter-length coats and silk accessories. The collection also highlights ARKET’s signature fabrics, including wool, cashmere, and leather. ARKET’s Head of Design, Ella Soccorsi, noted the long-standing relationship with Martin, praising her influence on the collection’s thoughtful design. Martin added, “This Edit is a unique opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in fashion directly to the clothes themselves.” The Penny Martin Edit will be available online and in select stores starting September 5. All images courtesy of Arket 

Jotex Launches Rug Collection Designed by Swedish Fashion Icons text Ulrika Lindqvist Earlier this year, Jotex announced a major collaboration with some of Sweden’s most renowned fashion designers. The partnership includes Lars Wallin, Angelo da Silveira (Diemonde), Ida Sjöstedt, Bea Szenfeld, and the design duo Livia Schück and Josephine Bergqvist (Rave Review). The result is a unique collection of five rugs, available for purchase starting August 29. Jotex is strengthening its ties to the fashion industry through the launch of Jotex Design Collab. This extensive collaboration allowed six prominent designers to have creative freedom in designing five bold, individual rugs. For many, it’s their first foray into interior design. The exclusive collection will be available on jotex.se from August 29, 2024.

Everything Opens to Touch: Sinéad O’Dwyer’s SS25 Collection – Zalando Visionary Award winner text Fashion Tales Irish designer Sinéad O’Dwyer made her debut at Copenhagen Fashion Week as the 2024 Zalando Visionary Award winner, showcasing her Spring/Summer 2025 collection, “Everything Opens to Touch.” The show was set in the picturesque Opera Park, where the atmosphere was transformed into a dreamy summer landscape. Sculptures inspired by O’Dwyer’s early work with artist Jade O’Belle and a soundscape by Witch Trials and Cosha added depth to the experience. Cosha also read a poem written by London-based author Anastasiia Fedorova, enhancing the immersive nature of the show. Continuing her commitment to inclusivity, O’Dwyer collaborated with models and creatives, including Alva Claire and musician Mahalia, to bring her vision to life. For the second time, the brand partnered with the Hair and Care Foundation to ensure that blind and low-vision guests could fully experience the runway show. This included immersive audio descriptions, fabric swatches for tactile engagement, and the inclusion of blind model and broadcaster Lucy Edwards, who walked the runway with her guide dog, marking a first for Copenhagen Fashion Week. O’Dwyer’s collection reimagines her signature styles with new touches, including shibari-inspired harnesses with short sleeves, micro-culottes with rara ruffles, and fitted shirts in new materials like deep blue denim. The collection also featured collaborations with other brands, such as Grounds Footwear, which contributed bubble-soled shoes with laced-up uppers inspired by Irish dancing shoes, and Savage X Fenty, which provided lace underwear that peeked through layers of denim and wool. Ecco’s bags were customized by O’Dwyer in her signature ‘Squiggle’ stretch nylon. Zalando Visionary Award: A Celebration of Innovation and Inclusivity Following the runway debut, Zalando hosted an exclusive re-see of O’Dwyer’s SS25 collection and a panel discussion on inclusivity in fashion. Industry leaders joined Sinéad to discuss her inspiration, particularly her focus on curve fashion and the importance of designing for all body types. Sinéad emphasized that the problem lies not with the wearer but with clothes that aren’t made to fit everyone. Jury members Giuliano Calza of GCDS and Edward Buchanan of SANSOVINO6 reflected on why they chose O’Dwyer as this year’s award winner. Edward highlighted that true inclusivity begins with involving models in the design process, a value central to Sinéad’s work. Casting Director Emma Matell and artist Jade O’Belle also shared their thoughts on the importance of inclusive casting and how brands can integrate this mindset from the beginning. They urged the industry to move away from exclusivity and instead celebrate inclusivity as a core value. Hacinta Naidoo, Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Zalando, spoke about the company’s ongoing commitment to a more inclusive fashion future. She shared insights into how Zalando is driving positive change through initiatives like the “Walk A Mile” campaign, which saw collaborations with designers, including panelist Giuliano Calza, to create an inclusive shoe collection that defied industry expectations. This event not only celebrated Sinéad O’Dwyer’s innovative designs but also highlighted the broader movement towards a more inclusive and diverse fashion industry, one where everyone has a place. www.zalando.sewww.sineadodwyer.com

CELINE Beauté Unveils First-Ever Cosmetics Line with “La Collection de l’Arc de Triomphe” Film text Ulrika Lindqvist CELINE Beauté has announced the launch of its inaugural cosmetics line with the release of “La Collection de l’Arc de Triomphe” film, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s history. Conceived by creative director Hedi Slimane in 2023, this new venture extends CELINE’s luxurious offerings from its Haute Parfumerie collection, which debuted in 2019. Slimane has meticulously designed a range of opulent beauty products, including bottles, pencils, and cases, that cater to all beauty rituals. These couture items epitomize the height of luxury and elegance, reinforcing CELINE’s deep cultural roots and the French ideal of femininity and allure that Slimane has cultivated over the past five years. The collection is anchored by the quintessentially Parisian “Rouge Triomphe” lipstick, featuring a classic satin finish and encased in a faceted gold sheath embossed with the maison’s couture monogram. This product will officially introduce the CELINE beauty ritual when it launches in Fall 2024. Alongside the lipstick, a curated selection of high-end luxury objects, jewelry, accessories, and precious leathers will enhance the allure of “Le Rouge CELINE” and its timeless feminine ritual. The “Le Rouge CELINE” lipstick collection, also crafted by Slimane, will debut in January 2025, offering 15 satin-finish colors, including the iconic nude shade “La Peau Nue,” showcased by models in the “Triomphe” film. Each season will bring new additions to the CELINE Beauté line, with Slimane laying the groundwork for a comprehensive beauty collection. This will include lip balms, mascaras, eyeliners, eye pencils, loose powder, blush cases, and nail polishes, all designed to embody the luxurious spirit of CELINE. With the introduction of CELINE Beauté, the maison not only enriches its storied heritage but also sets a new standard in luxury beauty, blending timeless elegance with modern femininity.

Hermès Opens New Workshop in Gironde Text Jahwanna Berglund Hermès lays the first stone for the Maroquinerie de Loupes leather goods workshop in Gironde and reaffirms its commitment to creating long-term jobs and transmitting exceptional know-how in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Situated in the town of Loupes (Gironde), this new facility—Hermès’ twenty-fifth leather goods workshop in France—is set to open in 2026. Once operational, it will employ 260 artisans, each trained in the maison’s renowned craftsmanship. The Maroquinerie de Loupes will be Hermès’ second production site in Gironde, following the launch of the Saint-Vincent-de-Paul workshop in September 2021. “A Boost for Employment and Training with Strong Local Roots The Gironde hub will foster the transmission of saddlery and leather craftsmanship, preserving and sharing Hermès’ exceptional know-how. At the École Hermès des savoir-faire, an apprentice training centre accredited by the French Ministry of Education and established in the Gironde hub in 2023, Hermès artisan trainers teach the techniques of leatherworking excellence. As Ministry-certified assessors, they award both the French vocational CAP qualification in leatherworking and the CQP (Certificate for Professional Qualification) in cutting and stitching. To meet its recruitment needs, Hermès collaborates with local partners such as France Travail Nouvelle-Aquitaine, GRETA-CFA Aquitaine adult education services, and the Charles Péguy high school in Eysines. The next training intake begins in October 2024, with applications currently open on the École Hermès des savoir-faire website: https://ecole.hermes.com/. Anchored in Nouvelle-Aquitaine for the Long Term Hermès has deep roots in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, with existing workshops such as the Ganterie-Maroquinerie de Saint-Junien (Haute-Vienne) and the Maroquineries de Nontron (Dordogne), Montbron (Charente), and Saint-Vincent-de-Paul (Gironde). By 2025, L’Isle d’Espagnac (Charente) will join this network, followed by the Maroquinerie de Loupes, which will become the sixth production site for Hermès Leather Goods and Saddlery in the region. By creating high-quality jobs and contributing to sustainable regional development, Hermès strengthens its position as a socially responsible company. The establishment of the Maroquinerie de Loupes has been a collaborative effort with the Communauté de Communes du Créonnais and Sysdau, the mixed syndicate responsible for l’Aire Métropolitaine Bordelaise. Architecture Designed to Respect the Environment The design of the new workshop was entrusted to Patrick Arotcharen Architecte, the firm behind Hermès’ first workshop in Gironde, the Maroquinerie de Guyenne (Saint-Vincent-de-Paul). Nestled in naturally wooded grounds, the workshop will feature curvilinear lines that harmonize with the landscape’s natural contours and existing trees. Key features include a multi-tiered layout, with the water reservoir, car park, and workshop stacked to minimize land use. Hermès is also working closely with an ecologist to preserve and enhance the site’s biodiversity. The building will incorporate low-carbon concrete for its foundations and use wood and bio-sourced materials for its structure. To limit its energy footprint, it will include rooftop solar panels, underground geothermal probes, and a rainwater recovery system that will meet 70% of the site’s water needs. Aligned with the Hermès Group’s environmental goals, the Maroquinerie de Loupes will be a positive-energy building, designed to comply with the Harmonie framework, Hermès’ sustainable real estate guidelines.