Fashion People Podcast Summary: Episode - "Calvin Klein’s Return and Hedi’s Last Dance"

Release Date: February 11, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Fashion People, host Lauren Sherman engages in an insightful conversation with Leah Chernikoff, Executive Editor of Harper's Bazaar. They delve into the latest happenings in the fashion industry, touching upon New York Fashion Week highlights, Calvin Klein’s recent endeavors, the Super Bowl fashion statement, and the departure of Sabado DSRNO from Gucci.

New York Fashion Week Highlights

Lauren and Leah commence their discussion by reflecting on the recent New York Fashion Week (NYFW). They praise the event's polish and the return of notable designers such as Christopher John Rogers, who made a significant comeback after a five-year hiatus.

Leah Chernikoff shares her excitement about Christopher John Rogers' evolution as a designer:

"He's just become such a much better designer. He's a good designer now. Before, he was a designer with a lot of promise, but now he's really good. It doesn't look like anything else out there."
[04:44]

The conversation shifts to Kate's collection, which they both agree was one of her strongest, emphasizing the brand's clarity and wearable designs inspired by David Lynch. Lauren highlights the cohesive experience with music selections like Sonic Boom and Smashing Pumpkins, which complemented Kate's collection perfectly.

Lauren Sherman adds:

"She does the music herself. I was most interested. I went to the show Ashlyn on Friday afternoon, and I went after Calvin after Form."
[07:00]

They also discuss other brands showcased at NYFW, including Ashland Park and Joseph Altazara, commending their wearable and innovative designs.

Super Bowl Fashion Runway

Shifting focus to the Super Bowl, Lauren and Leah explore how the event served as a significant fashion runway, particularly spotlighting Kendrick Lamar's standout ensemble.

Leah Chernikoff praises Kendrick Lamar's artistic and thoughtful appearance:

"I thought it was fantastic. It was really managed to pull off something really nuanced and felt like commentary on the moment."
[13:23]

They dissect Kendrick's outfit, debating whether his jeans are bootcut or flared, ultimately agreeing on their versatile appeal:

"Do you think we're gonna start seeing guys wearing bootcut jeans or flares? I say yes."
[19:53]

Lauren notes the cultural significance of the outfit:

"It kind of spoke to where our fashion is in the current culture and where our culture currently is."
[17:24]

The discussion also touches on other players' fashion choices, highlighting the mix of designer labels and personal touches, reflecting the players' individuality within the luxury market.

Sabado DSRNO's Departure from Gucci

A pivotal moment of the episode centers on the news of Sabado DSRNO ending his collaboration with Gucci.

Lauren Sherman initiates the topic:

"One other thing I wanted to really quickly discuss with you is last week's news that Sabado DSRNO is leaving Gucci. They are ending their quote unquote collaboration and we wish everybody the best of luck."
[21:51]

Leah Chernikoff provides context on Gucci's history with designer tenures, comparing Sabado's short stint to previous designers like Alessandra Fraccionetti and Frida:

"I think Frida was given the job and was there for 10 years and did a lot of really good work and built up the business."
[23:40]

They speculate on the future direction of Gucci, considering options like hiring a renowned professional designer or introducing a young, visionary talent. Leah expresses optimism about the brand's resilience:

"I think it's going to be okay. It's just, you know, all this stuff is very public now."
[26:01]

Lauren reflects on the significance of this change for Gucci and the broader fashion industry:

"It was an interesting moment for that business. And, you know, just looking back, their last three designers now design Prada, Chanel, and Alaïa."
[28:24]

Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Fashion Events

As the episode winds down, Lauren and Leah briefly touch upon other notable moments from NYFW, including actions like protests at Outside Coach and preparations for upcoming events like Burberry's presentation in London. They emphasize the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the fashion world, expressing excitement for what lies ahead.

Leah Chernikoff concludes with enthusiasm for future collections:

"It's so crazy, right? It's really nuts."
[28:40]

Conclusion

The episode provides a comprehensive overview of recent trends and notable events in the fashion industry, offering listeners valuable insights into designer dynamics, fashion evolution, and cultural influences shaping contemporary fashion. Through engaging dialogue and expert perspectives, Lauren Sherman and Leah Chernikoff deliver a rich and informative discussion that caters to both fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders.

Notable Quotes:

• Leah Chernikoff on Christopher John Rogers:
  "He's just become such a much better designer. He's a good designer now."
  [04:44]

• Lauren Sherman on Kate's collection:
  "She does the music herself. I was most interested."
  [07:00]

• Leah Chernikoff on Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl outfit:
  "I thought it was fantastic. It was really managed to pull off something really nuanced."
  [13:23]

• Leah Chernikoff on Gucci's future:
  "I think it's going to be okay. It's just, you know, all this stuff is very public now."
  [26:01]

• Lauren Sherman on Gucci's designer legacy:
  "Their last three designers now design Prada, Chanel, and Alaïa."
  [28:24]

For more detailed insights and ongoing coverage of the fashion industry, visit Lauren Sherman's online coverage at Puck News.