Podcast Summary: Fashion People – "The Sakspocalypse and a Burberry Question Mark"

Release Date: February 25, 2025
Hosts: Lauren Sherman and Becky Malinsky
Podcast: Fashion People by Audacy | Puck

Introduction

In this episode of Fashion People, host Lauren Sherman is joined by writer and stylist Becky Malinsky to delve into the latest happenings in the fashion industry. They explore a range of topics from the recent Burberry show to significant shifts in the retail landscape, including the tumultuous merger between Saks and Neiman Marcus. The duo also examines the strategic partnership between Nike and Skims, offering insights and personal anecdotes from their experiences in London Fashion Week.

Burberry Show Review

Lauren and Becky kick off the discussion with their impressions of the Burberry show.

• Lauren Sherman ([04:04]): "I thought it was great coats. It looked like the wardrobe of a British woman... lots of long skirts and boots, which is a thing we are seeing a lot this season."

• Becky Malinsky ([05:18]): "I especially loved those barn jackets, the floral barn jackets. And then they were decked out in diamonds."

They commend the show for its modern take under Christopher Bailey's direction, highlighting the quality of fabrics and the cohesive British aesthetic.

• Lauren Sherman ([05:44]): "I felt like a good Christopher Bailey show. If Christopher Bailey was the designer of Burberry now, I don't think it would look that different from what we saw tonight."

The hosts appreciate the balance Burberry maintains between tradition and contemporary fashion, noting the practical yet stylish outerwear showcased.

London Fashion Week and Street Style Observations

Transitioning to London Fashion Week, Lauren shares her bustling itinerary, including interviews and gallery visits, while Becky discusses her return to London after a decade.

• Becky Malinsky ([12:15]): "It's really exciting to be back on the street and seeing what people are wearing and being in all the little shops because there's so much more discovery here than in New York."

They compare the street style dynamics between London and other fashion capitals, emphasizing London's acceptance of diverse and experimental fashion choices.

• Becky Malinsky ([20:40]): "I think it looks less out of place to be dressed up during the day here. So like when I'm in New York I always feel like I have to have an element of casual or you feel slightly out of place."

Lauren adds her observations on the evolving retail spaces in London, reminiscing about iconic stores like Topshop and lamenting their closures.

• Lauren Sherman ([24:09]): "The basement, where they had all the sort of outside vendors was so fun. They had amazing shoes. It was a great store."

Retail Developments: The "Sakspocalypse"

A significant portion of the episode tackles the "Sakspocalypse," referring to Saks Fifth Avenue's recent merger with Neiman Marcus and the ensuing financial turmoil.

• Lauren Sherman ([23:09]): "Saks did this merger with Neiman Marcus Group. They acquired it. They had to raise $2 billion in debt to acquire it."

The hosts dissect the implications of Saks' decision to extend payment periods to vendors from 30 to 90 days, discussing its impact on designers and the broader retail ecosystem.

• Becky Malinsky ([30:11]): "There is just no inventory in stores. And it's really hard when someone wants to go to a store and try something on and the answer for every single thing becomes, well, we can order your size because in that case I could stay home."

They explore the challenges faced by both retailers and designers, questioning the sustainability of such financial maneuvers and their long-term effects on the fashion industry.

Nike and Skims Collaboration

Shifting focus, Lauren and Becky delve into the groundbreaking partnership between Nike and Skims, analyzing its potential to reshape the athleisure and intimate apparel markets.

• Becky Malinsky ([39:15]): "At first I found it slightly annoying. Like my first reaction was, why can't Nike just do a good job designing Women's? It just doesn't seem that complicated."

However, Becky acknowledges the strategic alignment of Nike's brand strength with Skims' market understanding, ultimately endorsing the collaboration.

• Becky Malinsky ([40:19]): "So it's sort of like a very easy way to capture that audience. So I don't know. I'm into it."

Lauren contemplates the future of this partnership, speculating on potential acquisitions and its significance within Kim Kardashian's expanding fashion empire.

• Lauren Sherman ([42:01]): "My whole thing is like, I wonder if this would lead to an acquisition because the reality of it is that would be an amazing exit for the greeds and also for Kardashian."

Personal Anecdotes and Final Thoughts

Throughout the episode, Lauren and Becky share personal stories that illuminate their professional experiences and observations.

• Lauren Sherman ([14:25]): "I wrote exactly what she was wearing, but it was so... it looked perfect."

They reminisce about favorite London stores, discuss the changing landscape of high street fashion, and express optimism for future industry developments despite current challenges.

• Becky Malinsky ([36:33]): "It's the industry at an impasse. I don't think anyone really knows the answer."

In concluding remarks, they highlight upcoming events like Milan Fashion Week and express excitement for future episodes that will continue to unpack the evolving narratives within the fashion world.

Conclusion

"The Sakspocalypse and a Burberry Question Mark" offers listeners an in-depth look at pivotal moments in the fashion industry, from high-profile runway shows to seismic shifts in retail operations. Lauren Sherman and Becky Malinsky provide expert analysis, enriched with personal insights and firsthand experiences, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone keen on understanding the intricate dynamics of fashion today.

Notable Quotes:

• Burberry Show Quality
  Lauren Sherman ([04:04]): "It looked like the wardrobe of a British woman... lots of long skirts and boots, which is a thing we are seeing a lot this season."

• Retail Challenges with Saks
  Becky Malinsky ([30:11]): "There is just no inventory in stores... we can order your size because in that case I could stay home."

• Nike and Skims Strategy
  Becky Malinsky ([39:15]): "At first I found it slightly annoying. Like my first reaction was, why can't Nike just do a good job designing Women's?"

This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions and insights shared by Lauren and Becky. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or industry professional, this episode provides valuable perspectives on current trends and challenges in the fashion world.