Fashion People Podcast Episode Summary: "Celine Mania and Meghan Markle’s Misstep"

Release Date: July 8, 2025

Host: Lauren Sherman
Guest: Terry Agins, former Wall Street Journal fashion reporter and author of End of Fashion: How Marketing Changed the Clothing Game Forever

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Fashion People, host Lauren Sherman welcomes Terry Agins to discuss pivotal moments and trends shaping the multi-trillion-dollar fashion industry. The conversation delves into Michael Ryder's debut at Celine, shifts in celebrity styling, Meghan Markle's recent business ventures, and the current crises facing the luxury fashion sector.

Celine Mania: Michael Ryder's Debut at Celine

Lauren Sherman kicks off the episode by highlighting the excitement surrounding Michael Ryder's first collection at Celine. She notes, “Everyone was like, wow, I really want to wear this. I really want to buy it” (06:32).

Terry Agins praises Ryder’s collection, stating, “It looked sophisticated. It had that patrician chic... It was incredibly wearable” (06:32). Agins draws parallels to past Celine designers like Michael Kors and Phoebe Philo, emphasizing Ryder’s ability to blend European sophistication with American wearability. He points out specific elements such as the “Crease down those jeans” (11:28) and the incorporation of “really good faux furs” that resonate with both Ralph Lauren’s aesthetic and modern European flair.

Lauren echoes Agins’ sentiments, appreciating the collection’s authenticity and practicality. She adds, “It felt like it was very much of a person who was of our generation” (10:06), highlighting the relatable and stylish nature of the designs.

Celebrity Stylists and Pedro Pascal's Stylist Change

The discussion transitions to the evolving relationships between celebrities and their stylists. Lauren shares insights about Pedro Pascal switching from Julie Regolia to Jamie Mizrahi, noting how this move aligns with his rising star status and the necessity for high-profile stylists to secure major contracts (20:05).

Terry Agins elaborates on the crucial role stylists play in crafting a celebrity’s image, stating, “These celebrity stylists are huge” (24:12). He underscores the importance of stylists in helping celebrities monetize their fame and maintain their brand presence, especially as many stars no longer earn massive paydays and must diversify their income streams.

Lauren adds that celebrities often have different stylists for various aspects of their public appearances, such as daytime versus red carpet events, further illustrating the complexity and strategic nature of modern celebrity styling.

Meghan Markle's Partnership with Netflix and "As Ever" Brand

A significant portion of the episode addresses Meghan Markle's latest business endeavors, particularly her partnership with Netflix for the "As Ever" brand. Lauren discusses the backlash concerning product quality and production methods, noting issues like “runny jam” and the association with mass-produced brands like Republic of Tea (28:17).

Terry Agins criticizes the partnership as “unorthodox” and highlights the challenges Meghan faces without a dedicated team to manage her brand effectively. He draws parallels to the Kardashians' early struggles, emphasizing the need for experienced advisors to navigate such ventures successfully (31:18).

Lauren points out the rushed nature of the product launch and the lack of control Meghan has over production, leading to customer dissatisfaction despite high demand. Agins concurs, suggesting that Meghan’s lack of a “strong team” hampers her ability to scale the business efficiently (30:19).

The Luxury Fashion Industry's Crisis

The conversation shifts to the current downturn in the luxury fashion industry. Lauren raises concerns about declining shares of major players like LVMH and Celine, attributing the crisis to changing consumer behaviors, oversaturation, and the rise of the second-hand market (38:05).

Terry Agins agrees, asserting, “I think it's permanent” (39:59). He identifies fast fashion as a primary disruptor, with brands like Shein and Fashion Nova offering affordable alternatives that erode the traditional luxury market. Agins also highlights the diminishing influence of Chinese consumers and the overall decrease in disposable income affecting luxury sales.

Agins further explains how overproduction has led to environmental issues and market saturation, reducing the exclusivity that once drove luxury demand. He notes, “Consumers are no longer as gullible... People are living differently” (39:59), indicating a fundamental shift in how consumers perceive and purchase luxury goods.

Conclusion

Lauren and Terry conclude by reflecting on the dynamic nature of the fashion industry. Agins emphasizes the continuous evolution and the necessity for brands to adapt to changing market conditions and consumer preferences. Lauren commends Terry for his insightful contributions and reiterates the importance of uncovering the realities behind the glossy facade of the fashion world.

Notable Quotes:

• Terry Agins: “It looked sophisticated. It had that patrician chic... It was incredibly wearable” (06:32).
• Terry Agins: “I think it's permanent” regarding the luxury fashion industry's downturn (39:59).
• Lauren Sherman: “It felt like it was very much of a person who was of our generation” (10:06).

Final Thoughts

This episode of Fashion People offers a deep dive into significant trends and challenges within the fashion industry, providing listeners with expert analysis and insider perspectives. From high-profile designer debuts to the intricate dynamics of celebrity branding, Lauren Sherman and Terry Agins deliver a comprehensive overview of what’s shaping the future of fashion.

Produced and edited by Molly Nugent. Special thanks to John Kelly, Ben Landy, Gabby Grossman, JD Crowley, Jenna Weiss Berman, and Bob Tabador.