Fashion People Podcast Summary: "Goodbye Loewe, Hello Dior"
Release Date: March 18, 2025
Hosts:
- Lauren Sherman – Puck correspondent and writer of Huck's Fashion and Beauty Memo Line Sheet
- Carolyn Faux – Fashion stylist and author of the book Motivations
Introduction and Guest Introduction
The episode kicks off with Lauren Sherman welcoming Carolyn Faux to discuss recent upheavals in the fashion industry, specifically focusing on LVMH succession and Jonathan Anderson's transition from Loewe to Dior. They also delve into potential changes at Balenciaga and other significant industry movements.
Notable Quote:
- Lauren Sherman [01:04]: "If you want the latest on LVMH succession, some intel about the future of New York Fashion Week and some shoe designer musical chairs specifically involving the row, be sure to check out Line Sheet."
LVMH Succession and Jonathan Anderson's Departure
Lauren and Carolyn explore the recent announcement that Jonathan Anderson is leaving Loewe after a decade to join Dior. They discuss Anderson's impact on Loewe, transforming it into a $2 billion business, and speculate on the challenges he might face at Dior, a $10 billion company aiming to expand to $14 billion.
Notable Quotes:
- Carolyn Faux [11:39]: "I think he's been there, what, like 10, 11 years? I would want to change too."
- Lauren Sherman [12:29]: "He is the founder of the business that exists now. He might not be the founder of LVMH specifically, but he created what is there."
Potential New Designers at Balenciaga
The conversation shifts to Balenciaga's open position for a new designer. Lauren mentions recent appointments within the fashion conglomerate and discusses potential candidates like John Galliano, Martine Rose, Peter Mueller, and Raf Simons. They weigh the pros and cons of each, considering their past controversies and design philosophies.
Notable Quotes:
- Carolyn Faux [20:56]: "John Galliano at Balenciaga could be like the comeback of all comebacks."
- Lauren Sherman [21:35]: "In fashion, it's like a group of men who all know each other, and they all get these jobs."
Recent Fashion Shows and Designer Highlights
Lauren and Carolyn reflect on recent fashion shows, highlighting designers such as Tom Ford, Miu Miu, and Calvin. Lauren shares her observations from a visit to Squirrel, a popular brunch spot now frequented by young fashion enthusiasts, shedding light on how runway trends influence everyday style.
Notable Quotes:
- Carolyn Faux [04:58]: "I thought that I dressed a very specific way and Loewe is not that way."
- Lauren Sherman [07:45]: "They looked like they looked at the Miu Miu show and they tried outfits on."
Changes in Los Angeles Style Post-Pandemic
The hosts discuss the evolution of LA's fashion scene post-pandemic, noting a diverse mix of styles from trend chasers to world travelers. They emphasize the vibrant but scattered nature of LA fashion, contrasting it with more concentrated fashion hubs like New York.
Notable Quotes:
- Carolyn Faux [09:27]: "I feel like there are pockets of really cool chic people that get it that are world travelers."
- Lauren Sherman [10:45]: "If you want to see amazing fashion, that's where you go in LA."
Redefining "Preppy" in Modern Fashion
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the evolving definition of "preppy" fashion. Lauren explains how the term has lost its original meaning, now representing a bright, girly aesthetic with trendy, oversized clothing. They express concern over the dilution of authentic preppy culture.
Notable Quotes:
- Lauren Sherman [37:20]: "It's like they say, I want to dress preppy, and the way they, when you look and see what they think is prep, quote, unquote, preppy, it makes it completely lost any meaning."
- Carolyn Faux [36:27]: "It has nothing to do with what we know as preppy culture. It's extremely weird."
Bernard Arnault's Tenure at LVMH
The episode touches on Bernard Arnault's proposal to remain CEO and chairman of LVMH until he is 85 years old. The hosts discuss his influence over the multi-trillion-dollar conglomerate and the potential future leadership challenges.
Notable Quotes:
- Lauren Sherman [40:31]: "If he's able, I don't think there's anyone else with the amount of knowledge."
- Carolyn Faux [40:06]: "If he's still kicking, if the brain is still working, why not?"
Carolyn Faux's Book: "Motivations"
Carolyn introduces her recently released book, Motivations, co-authored with her friend Ian. The book is a collection of transformed street style photographs, showcasing unique characters from LA and New York. They discuss the creative process behind the book and Carolyn's aspirations to potentially launch a biannual magazine.
Notable Quotes:
- Carolyn Faux [52:18]: "It was just like, let's take a bunch of fun pictures. And we just couldn't stop."
- Lauren Sherman [55:44]: "Maybe one day."
Taylor and Travis Del Frisco's Event
Lauren and Carolyn comment on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's recent appearance at Del Frisco's dinner, analyzing their fashion choices. They discuss the balance between casual and formal attire and the public's reception of their outfits.
Notable Quotes:
- Carolyn Faux [43:55]: "It's the most normal I've ever seen them dress."
- Lauren Sherman [44:35]: "It's like the jacket was nice."
Athletes in Fashion and Styling Challenges
The conversation shifts to the involvement of athletes in the fashion industry, highlighting Russell Westbrook's upcoming newsletter and the challenges brands face when styling muscular bodies. They critique the often forced and untailored fashion choices for athletes on the red carpet.
Notable Quotes:
- Lauren Sherman [48:31]: "So I do think that that business has improved for them because it just was a trend cycle thing."
- Carolyn Faux [50:15]: "It just needs so much more than that."
Conclusion and Future Episodes
Lauren concludes the episode by thanking Carolyn Faux for her insights and inviting her to return for future discussions. They emphasize the value of their candid conversations, likening them to friendly dinners filled with gossip and fashion analysis.
Notable Quote:
- Carolyn Faux [56:03]: "This was so fun. You have to come back."
Production Credits:
- Producer and Editor: Molly Nugent
- Executive Producers: John Kelly (Puck co-founder), Ben Landy (Executive Editor), Gabby Grossman (Director of Editorial Operations)
- Additional Thanks: Odyssey team including JD Crowley, Jenna Weiss Berman, and Bob Tabador
Podcast Information Recap:
- Title: Fashion People
- Host/Author: Audacy | Puck
- Description: Lauren Sherman and industry insiders discuss behind-the-scenes happenings in the fashion, beauty, and media industries.
- Release Schedule: Twice-weekly, every Tuesday and Friday
This episode of Fashion People provided an in-depth look at pivotal shifts within major fashion houses, the evolving definitions within fashion culture, and the interplay between celebrity influence and brand strategy. Both hosts delivered insightful commentary, making complex industry changes accessible and engaging for listeners.