Fashion People: The Row vs. Donni
Episode Release Date: May 13, 2025
Host: Lauren Sherman
Guests: Sarah Shapiro (Puck’s Retail Correspondent)

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Fashion People, host Lauren Sherman teams up with retail correspondent Sarah Shapiro to delve into the dynamic shifts within the fashion industry. Titled "The Row vs. Donni," the discussion navigates through significant topics such as international tariff adjustments, executive transitions at major brands, the rise of emerging labels, and the potential revival of iconic department stores through television adaptations. The episode offers listeners an insider's perspective on the evolving landscape of a multi-trillion-dollar business.

1. US-China Tariff Agreement and Its Implications
Timestamp: 03:54 – 07:30

The episode kicks off with a discussion on the newly reached US-China tariff agreement. Lauren Sherman prompts Sarah Shapiro to shed light on the specifics:

Lauren Sherman [07:10]: "Can you just very, very quickly explain what the US-China tariff agreement entails?"

Sarah elucidates the details of the agreement, explaining that:

Sarah Shapiro [04:33]: "There is a 90-day pause which will bring the tariffs down to 30% for Chinese imports, previously at 14.5%, and China is reducing their tariffs on American goods from 12.5% to 10%."

Lauren and Sarah discuss the broader implications, highlighting how such fluctuations disrupt supply chains and impact businesses across the board. Sarah emphasizes the confusion arising at ports and the challenges faced by both consumers and retailers due to inconsistent duties and shipping uncertainties.

2. Executive Changes at AWAY: Welcoming Jessica Shanazi
Timestamp: 07:31 – 11:19

Transitioning to corporate leadership, Lauren introduces the topic of Jen Rubio stepping down as CEO of AWAY, a prominent luggage brand. Sarah provides insights into the appointment of Jessica Shanazi as the new CEO:

Sarah Shapiro [08:59]: "The new CEO is Jessica Shanazi. She was the president of Dyson’s Americas business and has experience with brands like LVMH and Amazon."

Lauren inquires about the strategic directions Shanazi might bring:

Sarah Shapiro [10:39]: "Under Shanazi, AWAY is launching in Nordstrom with 60 stores and expanding its online presence, aiming to increase visibility and accessibility."

The conversation underscores the potential for AWAY to escalate its market presence under Shanazi’s leadership, drawing parallels between Dyson’s disruptive product strategies and AWAY’s growth ambitions.

3. Spotlight on DONNIE: A Rising Direct-to-Consumer Brand
Timestamp: 14:26 – 22:48

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to examining DONNIE, an emerging D2C brand gaining traction among a discerning customer base, particularly affluent mothers aged 30 to 50. Lauren and Sarah explore the brand's unique market positioning and cultural resonance.

Lauren Sherman [14:54]: "What makes DONNIE so fascinating is its appeal within specific communities, even though it's not widely visible in mainstream retail spaces."

Sarah provides a detailed overview:

Sarah Shapiro [15:19]: "DONNIE is sold primarily online and through selected retailers like Revolve and Shop Up, making it exclusive yet accessible to those in the fashion industry."

They discuss DONNIE’s recent popularity surge, noting its identifiable designs and high-quality materials. Sarah estimates the brand’s revenue and highlights its standout products, particularly the taffeta pull-on pants that have become a staple among fashion-forward consumers.

Sarah Shapiro [18:22]: "The current estimate for DONNIE’s revenue is between $10 to $20 million, with their taffeta pants being a standout item due to their perfect blend of comfort and style."

Lauren shares anecdotal evidence of DONNIE’s presence in elite private schools, emphasizing its status symbol among affluent families.

4. Barney’s New York: Potential Television Revival
Timestamp: 26:52 – 34:23

The conversation shifts to Barney’s New York, exploring the announcement of a potential television show adaptation produced by industry veterans Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage.

Lauren Sherman [27:16]: "The first project is a show about Barney's New York, produced in partnership with Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, known for Gossip Girl."

Sarah offers a critical perspective on the show's viability:

Sarah Shapiro [28:50]: "While nostalgia is a strong pull, the challenge lies in authentically portraying the essence of Barney’s without losing its unique charm. Compared to impactful shows like Gossip Girl, it remains to be seen if it can capture a similar cultural influence."

Lauren and Sarah debate the potential success of such a show, considering whether it could reinvigorate the brand or simply serve as a nostalgic fragment without substantial industry impact.

5. The Row: Navigating Minimalism and Market Evolution
Timestamp: 35:00 – 45:17

A deep dive into The Row, a minimalist fashion brand, anchors the latter part of the episode. Lauren discusses her recent column on The Row, questioning its longevity and adaptability in a fashion landscape increasingly favoring edgier, sexier aesthetics.

Lauren Sherman [38:02]: "What are the prospects for The Row long term, especially as the fashion conversation shifts towards more provocative styles?"

Sarah analyzes The Row’s current strategies and market position:

Sarah Shapiro [38:10]: "The Row remains influential through its styling and versatile pieces. Their latest lookbook emphasizes innovative layering techniques, keeping the brand relevant."

They explore The Row’s cautious yet strategic growth, highlighting its expanded product lines in handbags and shoes. Sarah contemplates the brand's future, suggesting that to stay pertinent, The Row must balance its minimalist roots with the evolving desires for more dynamic and expressive fashion.

Sarah Shapiro [44:59]: "Balancing the core minimalist philosophy with current fashion trends is crucial for The Row to maintain its market position and appeal."

Lauren and Sarah conclude by reflecting on The Row’s potential to transition into a more fashion-forward brand without sacrificing its foundational design principles.

Conclusion

In "The Row vs. Donni," Fashion People delivers a nuanced exploration of pivotal developments shaping the fashion industry. From international trade agreements and executive leadership transitions to the emergence of influential new brands and the reinvention of legacy stores, Lauren Sherman and Sarah Shapiro provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the forces driving change in fashion. This episode not only informs but also invites reflection on the delicate balance between tradition and innovation in maintaining relevance in a fast-paced market.

Notable Quotes

• Lauren Sherman [07:10]: "Can you just very, very quickly explain what the US China tariff agreement entails?"

• Sarah Shapiro [04:33]: "There is a 90-day pause which will bring the tariffs down to 30% for Chinese imports, previously at 14.5%, and China is reducing their tariffs on American goods from 12.5% to 10%."

• Sarah Shapiro [08:59]: "The new CEO is Jessica Shanazi. She was the president of Dyson’s Americas business and has experience with brands like LVMH and Amazon."

• Sarah Shapiro [15:19]: "DONNIE is sold primarily online and through selected retailers like Revolve and Shop Up, making it exclusive yet accessible to those in the fashion industry."

• Sarah Shapiro [18:22]: "The current estimate for DONNIE’s revenue is between $10 to $20 million, with their taffeta pants being a standout item due to their perfect blend of comfort and style."

• Sarah Shapiro [28:50]: "While nostalgia is a strong pull, the challenge lies in authentically portraying the essence of Barney’s without losing its unique charm."

• Sarah Shapiro [44:59]: "Balancing the core minimalist philosophy with current fashion trends is crucial for The Row to maintain its market position and appeal."

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