DTC Dispatch #049

LATEST NEWS

Wrangler and Pacsun release collab

Wrangler, owned by Kontoor Brands, is teaming up with Pacsun for a new collaboration, according to emails sent to Fashion Dive. The 23-piece collection features a range of graphic tees, hoodies, and vintage-inspired denim jackets, blending Wrangler’s classic style with Pacsun’s trendy edge.

Priced between $34.99 and $114.99, the collection is available in sizes XS to XXL and launched Thursday on both brands' e-commerce sites and select Pacsun stores.

John Meagher, Wrangler’s VP of global brand marketing, described the collaboration as a fusion of Wrangler’s iconic western style with "Gen Z staples" like hoodies and tees, adding a “West Coast twist” to the brand’s heritage.

This partnership exemplifies Wrangler’s dedication to honoring its roots while introducing western fashion to a new generation. Collaborations like this have been central to both brands’ growth strategies.

Our take: Wrangler's collaboration with Pacsun is a smart and strategic move, blending the heritage of an iconic brand with the youthful energy of a retailer that resonates with Gen Z. By merging Wrangler’s timeless western aesthetic with Pacsun’s laid-back, trend-forward vibe, this 23-piece collection is designed to appeal to a new generation of consumers who value both nostalgia and modernity in their fashion choices.

This partnership underscores how brands like Wrangler are evolving. Historically associated with rugged, outdoor lifestyles, Wrangler is cleverly repositioning its classic imagery by integrating it with styles that are popular with today’s youth, like graphic tees and hoodies. The "West Coast twist" mentioned by John Meagher perfectly reflects how traditional aesthetics can be updated to stay relevant.

For Wrangler, this collaboration is about more than just expanding its audience—it's about staying true to its roots while embracing cultural shifts. By collaborating with a brand like Pacsun, Wrangler is not only honoring its past but also securing its place in the future of fashion. These kinds of partnerships are essential in the ever-evolving landscape of retail, where brands must remain adaptive to stay competitive.

The secondhand economy is thriving, but trust issues remain

Resale shopping has surged, with nearly half (46%) of U.S. adults buying secondhand items and 26% selling them in the past three months, according to Morning Consult. Clothing is the top category, with 67% of shoppers opting for secondhand apparel, though most spend $50 or less unless purchasing luxury items.

Morning Consult’s retail analyst Claire Tassin notes that clothing has become more disposable, fueling the secondhand market. While saving money is the main motivation for most shoppers, other factors like style and eco-consciousness are seen as added perks.

Our take: The rise of resale shopping reflects a shift in how consumers value both fashion and sustainability. With nearly half of U.S. adults now purchasing secondhand items, it’s clear that the stigma around preloved goods has faded, replaced by a more practical and mindful approach to consumption. Clothing, the leading category in resale, illustrates how trends have accelerated, making fast fashion feel more fleeting than ever.

Claire Tassin’s observation about apparel becoming more disposable rings true—people are cycling through clothing faster, which feeds the secondhand market. But it’s not just about saving money. While affordability is a top driver, the appeal of finding unique, stylish pieces or contributing to a more sustainable fashion ecosystem also resonates. In today’s fashion landscape, resale shopping offers a compelling mix of financial savvy, individuality, and environmental consciousness—a combination that will likely keep the trend growing.

Selena Gomez Makes Big Announcement Regarding Rare Beauty And Sephora

Selena Gomez has shared exciting updates about her beauty brand, Rare Beauty, and its latest collaboration with Sephora.

A passionate advocate for mental health, Gomez's dedication is reflected in the Rare Impact Fund, which provides essential resources and support to young people. This initiative is a core part of Rare Beauty's mission, launched in 2020, to promote self-acceptance and mental wellness.

In honor of World Mental Health Day on October 10, Rare Beauty is partnering with Sephora to raise funds for the Rare Impact Fund, furthering its commitment to mental health advocacy.

Our take: Selena Gomez's latest announcement about Rare Beauty's collaboration with Sephora underscores her brand’s unique approach to beauty. What sets Rare Beauty apart is its commitment to promoting self-acceptance and mental wellness, a refreshing departure from the typical beauty industry narrative.

The Rare Impact Fund, which is at the heart of the brand’s mission, highlights the importance of supporting mental health, particularly for young people. In an era where beauty standards can often feel unattainable, Gomez’s initiative offers a more compassionate perspective. By partnering with Sephora to raise funds for the Rare Impact Fund in honor of World Mental Health Day, Rare Beauty reinforces the idea that beauty goes beyond physical appearance—it’s about feeling good within.

This collaboration is not just about products, it’s about making a meaningful impact, and Gomez continues to lead by example, merging beauty with purpose.

GU unveils collaboration with Rokh

GU, a Fast Retailing Group retailer and sister brand of Uniqlo, is launching a new collaboration with fashion label Rokh on October 18.

Founded by Rok Hwang in 2016, Rokh blends modern trends with timeless designs. The 22-piece collection, titled 'Play in Style,' features Rokh’s signature tailored layering and GU’s playful approach to fashion, with versatile pieces in muted color palettes.

Aligned with GU’s “Mini edit Max” philosophy, the collection offers affordable, on-trend items designed for mix-and-match versatility. It will be available online and at GU’s new SoHo store in New York City.

Our take: GU’s upcoming collaboration with Rokh is an exciting fusion of modern trends and timeless design, offering something fresh yet accessible. Rokh’s signature artful tailoring, paired with GU’s playful and affordable approach to fashion, makes this collection stand out. The 22-piece line, with its muted color palettes and versatile silhouettes, is both stylish and practical, designed for those who appreciate mix-and-match potential without sacrificing individuality.

GU’s "Mini edit Max" philosophy, focusing on delivering high style at budget-friendly prices, resonates strongly in today’s market. As fashion consumers seek more curated, thoughtful collections, this collaboration hits the right notes, combining quality and affordability. The expansion into the U.S., with the SoHo store and online availability, makes this launch all the more exciting, giving American shoppers access to GU’s blend of innovative and accessible fashion.

Overall, this collaboration offers a perfect balance of style, versatility, and affordability, making it a must-watch release for fashion enthusiasts.

Louis Vuitton S/S 25 Is Rethinking What It Means to Be "Soft" in Fashion

For Nicolas Ghesquière's 10th anniversary at Louis Vuitton, the designer skillfully intertwined past and present. By placing a large reflective tent in the Cour Carrée of the Louvre, he highlighted the stunning French Renaissance architecture around him. The runway, featuring a mosaic of vibrant monogrammed trunks, reinforced his dedication to blending the brand’s heritage with contemporary design.

Ghesquière’s boldness shone through in the opening looks, which showcased 18th-century silhouettes—strong shoulders, cinched waists, and peplum hems—paired with biker shorts and chunky sandals for a modern touch. While inspired by the Renaissance, he also included '80s skater skirts and ruffled dresses. The finale featured five pieces created in collaboration with French artist Laurent Grasso, merging modern and celestial themes with Renaissance art. This collection exemplifies the blend of historical and futuristic influences in the Louis Vuitton S/S 25 collection.

Though these combinations might seem confusing at first glance, Ghesquière's history of integrating futuristic elements reveals a clear vision. “If you don’t put yourself in aesthetic danger every season, you’re not playing the game of fashion,” he stated to Vogue before unveiling the 2025 collection.

Our take: Nicolas Ghesquière's 10th anniversary collection for Louis Vuitton showcases his talent for merging history with contemporary fashion. By placing the runway in a reflective tent at the Louvre's Cour Carrée, he highlights the grandeur of French Renaissance architecture while emphasizing fashion's timeless nature.

His bold design choices, particularly in the opening looks that blend 18th-century silhouettes with modern elements like biker shorts and chunky sandals, challenge traditional norms and engage a younger audience with luxury fashion. The collection's dynamic mix of inspirations—from Renaissance to '80s pop culture—creates a nostalgic yet forward-thinking vibe.

The finale, featuring pieces created in collaboration with artist Laurent Grasso, deepens this theme of merging past and present. By incorporating modern and celestial elements into traditional art, Ghesquière elevates the collection beyond clothing to a commentary on the evolution of art and fashion.

While some may find the eclectic combinations perplexing, they reflect Ghesquière's vision of pushing fashion boundaries. His commitment to “aesthetic danger” not only honors Louis Vuitton's heritage but also ensures its relevance in a changing world. This anniversary celebration demonstrates that true innovation lies in the courage to blend the old with the new.