Latest news with #Cruise2026
Forbes
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Swim And Resort Focused Brand Melissa Odabash Celebrates 25 Years
A model in a bikini form the Melissa Odabash Cruise 2025/2026 collection. The ground-breaking series 'Survivor' debuted in 2000, subsequently cementing the popularity of reality television, paving the way for shows such as 'Idol', 'Big Brother', 'The Apprentice', 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians', and 'The Real Housewives.' Melissa Odabash, the swimwear brand started by a former model, also launched her eponymous label in 2000. The last twenty-five years have seen a non-stop trajectory for the TV show genre, as well as the swim and resort wear categories, that have upped the ante on elevated, designer sensibility offerings, plowing through the typical tie-dye sarongs and destination motif t-shirts once dominating the cover-up market. For the label's 25th anniversary collection for Cruise 2025/2026, Odabash looks back at the brand's beginnings and success in the burgeoning sector. A DIFFERENT LANDSCAPE Founder and brand designer Melissa Odabash. 'When I launched Melissa Odabash, the swim and resort wear category wasn't defined the way it is today. Swimwear was often an afterthought; uninspired, poorly constructed, and rarely flattering,' Odabash said in an interview. The founder had first-hand knowledge thanks to her work as a model. 'I spent years on shoots wearing swimsuits that just didn't feel right. That experience opened my eyes to a real opportunity in the market to create something that was missing: a company that focused on swimwear that was both innovative and beautifully made. I began designing styles I genuinely wanted to wear, ensuring that the pieces felt elevated, elegant, and timeless,' she continued. Her work also provided her with behind-the-scenes views of some of the iconic Italian fashion houses. 'That exposure deeply influenced my sense of quality, fit, and attention to detail. My design inspiration was rooted in European style and craftsmanship, so I founded the brand in Italy,' she added. MAGAZINE GLORY The most coveted spot for swimwear marketing when the brand launched in the millennium was the infamous Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition. A model in a bathing suit from the Melissa Odabash Cruise 2025/2026 collection. 'Early on, several of my designs were featured in SI, worn by incredible women like Tyra Banks, Steffi Graf, Heidi Klum, and Karen Mulder. Seeing my pieces on such powerful icons was surreal, and it gave the brand instant international visibility,' Odabash recalled, adding, 'Back then, there was no Instagram, no viral moments online. To be taken seriously, especially as a new label, you had to earn your place through traditional media. Getting that kind of exposure in print was like a golden stamp of approval, and then buyers started to take notice. Suddenly, what started as a small idea was being talked about on a global scale.' Odabash's success underscores the former wholesale landscape. 'That momentum helped shape the foundation of the brand. It created buzz, built credibility, and opened doors to dressing A-list celebrities and being featured in leading publications. It was the beginning of building a loyal, global following, and looking back, I'm so grateful for how organically and powerfully it all unfolded,' she noted. CARVING A NICHE It was also the beginning of a momentum for the category, which saw the category start to blossom in the 1990s, shifting from a 'necessity' to an 'essential' category, according to Odabash. 'It's the result of a mix of lifestyle shifts, global travel, wellness, and, of course, the rise of social media. Women want versatile, elevated pieces that feel as good as they look, pieces that can take you from the beach to sunset drinks and dinner. We've grown in response to that demand, expanding into ready-to-wear and accessories. There's a whole world around resort wear now, and I love that we were part of pioneering that change,' she said. A model in a beach cover up from the Melissa Odabash Cruise 2025/2026 collection. Most recently, 'The White Lotus' has been a consumer marketing boon to the category. Melissa Odabash designs have been featured on television prior to that, appearing organically on 'The Real Housewives,' 'The Bachelor,' 'Love Island,' and other reality and scripted series. 'The brand continues to align naturally with lifestyle-led productions that celebrate travel and an aspirational way of life. Shows like 'The White Lotus' made escapism feel aspirational and effortlessly chic, thus shaping the visual language of resort wear and bringing renewed attention to destination-driven fashion. More brand highlights include Jennifer Lawrence wearing Melissa Odabash in the 2016 film 'Passengers,' recreating swimsuits for the 2013 film 'Diana,' and subsequently creating styles for further Naomi Watts films. SILVER LININGS The 25th-anniversary collection is especially personal for the designer as a tribute to her mother. 'My parents travelled to St. Martin yearly. My mother would return with a bikini from a small French boutique. I still remember those pieces; they were elegant, detailed, and unlike anything I'd seen. This place sparked my love for design and swimwear. Early exposure to refined, European swimwear had a lasting impact on me. This collection is a nod to that time, to the island's colors, its spirit, and the feeling of escape it evokes,' Odabash said. A model in a ready-to-wear look from the Melissa Odabash Cruise 2025/2026 collection. The brand, which is designed in London and primarily manufactured in Italy, has core wholesale accounts, including Harrods, Selfridges, Saks, and Net-a-Porter, with flagship stores in London, St. Tropez, and two stores in Dubai, as well as an e-commerce business. The range includes swimwear, resort wear, dresses, kaftans, sandals, hats, bags, jewelry, and loungewear. Odabash is also looking forward to new collaborations that blend fashion, travel, and art to design a wardrobe geared towards a global, effortless lifestyle. Despite its growth, the brand collaborates with small, ethically minded factories that are experts in their craft, wherever they may be located. 'Quality has always been a cornerstone of the brand; it's not something we're ever willing to compromise on. Of course, with economic shifts and tariff considerations, we remain flexible and proactive. But many of our production partners have been with us for over 20 years, which gives us stability and the ability to adapt quickly without losing sight of our values.' Looking back on 25 years of building a global presence, cultivating loyal customers, and forming meaningful partnerships, Odabash is humbled by the achievement as she explores the next phase. 'It feels like a milestone and a beginning. There's much more ahead, new stores, expanding my ready-to-wear line, and creative collaborations that continue to push the brand forward.'
The Star
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Slim, sequinned, silky: Scarves and neckerchiefs steal the fashion spotlight
With its lace detailing and frayed edges, this neckwear strikes a balance between romanticism and rebellion. Photo: Ralph Lauren Once functional, now fashion-forward, the neckerchief is claiming its place in trendsetters' wardrobes, adding both edge and elegance. Long associated with scout uniforms, where it represents values like friendship, loyalty, and community, it now serves multiple purposes. Some wear it as a practical collar to absorb sweat or shield the neck, while others tie it on simply for flair. Whatever your reason, it works brilliantly to refresh any outfit in your wardrobe. Best of all, there's a wide variety of neck scarves to choose from to complement or enhance your style. Louis Vuitton's neck scarf sparkles brightly with gold sequins against a silver fabric, with golden tassels anchoring the slim piece in place, swaying slightly as the model walks, adding a touch of drama and glamour. Part of the French brand's Cruise 2026 collection, the shiny neck scarf is a standout statement piece that elevates any outfit, day or night, bringing a festive feel to even the simplest of silhouettes. Read more: Ask The Expert: How to make sportswear look stylish, not post-workout Softly wrapped at the neck, this neckerchief in a neutral tone brings instant polish to any look. Photo: Tod's Whether styled with a sharp blazer or a flowy dress, it demands attention in all the right ways. An understated version sans sequins and tassels can be had from Italian label Tod's Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection. The neckerchief in a crinkled material is worn casually knotted with an ensemble of brown tones, effortlessly tying the look together. In a striking magenta shade, the neck scarf from Paul Smith's Spring/Summer 2026 line is for the bold, fashion-conscious male. Tied nonchalantly and worn beneath a green shirt that is part of a brown double-breasted suit, the silky accessory adds a pop of colour for a look that's anything but buttoned-up. For a more rebellious twist, tie it like Miu Miu where a printed silk scarf tied just off-centre, is styled to look undone but deliberately placed. The bow sits at the side of the neck, grazing the lower cheek for a hint of attitude. So effortlessly dishevelled, yet very chic! At Ralph Lauren, an ornate lace jabot is love at first tie. Romantic and slightly rebellious, the decorative ruffle has a bit of an edge as part of the sheer fabric has frayed edges. It gives the black trousers, brown sweater, and blazer it is worn with a style that is both soft and striking. Read more: Still obsessed with Labubu? Sorry, fashion did the bag charm trend first A versatile creation is the twilly, which is a long, narrow silk scarf often associated with Hermes, said to have been introduced in the 1930s when the French Maison debuted it as part of its silk accessories range. Twillies are adaptable and can be styled in numerous ways. Wrapped around handbag handles, tied in the hair, worn as a bracelet or necktie, or even used as a belt, they go a long way in your wardrobe. As seen on British rapper Little Simz at an event hosted by Gucci recently, she wore a silk twilly, by the Italian brand, of course, around her neck to make her olive green ensemble pop, as the twilly is bright red with a print of florals and bugs. Talk about adding buzz to neckwear!
Forbes
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Philipp Plein Unveils The 2026 Cruise Fashion Collection At Cannes
MILAN, ITALY - APRIL 11: Philipp Plein attends the launch of the Philipp Plein FW2025 Watches and ... More Jewels collection during Salone del Mobile on April 11, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Pietro S. D'Aprano/Getty Images for Philipp Plein) Set against the glossy star-studded red carpet of the Cannes Film Festival, the Carlton Beach Club sparkled with different kinds of stars: crystal embroidery, slick leather, and a sharp dose of high-octane glamour. The occasion? Philipp Plein's Cruise 2026 fashion collection, Noir Summer Dream, an aptly titled fashion show from the fashion industry's maximalist provocateur. Philipp Plein presents the Cruise 2026 Collection, 'Noir Summer Dream', over Cannes Film Festival Though Cannes is known for its sunshine, the forecast called for another bout of what locals call the 'Cannes Curse,' the unexpected downpours that seem to arrive right on cue each festival season. Sure enough, the skies opened, forcing Philipp Plein to relocate his annual resort show from his lush private villa to the storied Carlton Beach Club. It marked the first venue change in a decade for the designer. Still, the location change felt serendipitous. With its panoramic sea views and storied glamour, the Beach Club proved an ideal runway, or as Plein himself put it, 'the place to be, especially at the beginning of the summer season.' Philipp Plein presents the Cruise 2026 Collection, 'Noir Summer Dream', over Cannes Film Festival Plein's premiere Cruise collection featured 16 looks of models, clad in sculptural black halter gowns and jewel-studded minidresses, that moved through a scene somewhere between Studio 54 and a midnight séance, with a hint of French Riviera maximalism. It all felt like a stylized fever dream with a bit of a cinematic flair, perhaps as a nod to the film festival next door. There was no subtlety present, but then again subtlety has never been Plein's aesthetic point, quite the contrary, in his universe more is more. Plein's debut Cruise collection can be a study in opulence and contrasts: darkness and sparkle, strength and seduction. The collection is a precise ode to cocktail and evening-wear, one of the niche markets that Plein committed to unapologetically since the invention of the brand. Nearly every look was rendered in black, from leather suiting with sharply contoured shoulders to sheer gowns and crystal embellished dresses. The eye did wonder as Plein's silhouettes continue to retain the bravado of his early years. But there was a shift on the runway, his love for excess has been clearly distilled, think of it as less spectacle, and more statement. Philipp Plein presents the Cruise 2026 Collection, 'Noir Summer Dream', over Cannes Film Festival 'I'm not trying to sell basics,' Plein once quipped backstage at the Milan Fashion Week, where he infamously punctuated a 2015 show with a full-scale roller coaster and a declaration that he aimed to 'f*** your mind tonight.' A decade later, the tone may be more refined, but the intention remains provocatively clear. Take for example the little black dress, which Plein showcased with a crystalized, matelassé technique, revealing both Plein's love of embellishment and as well as his evolving command of construction. It was a winner. Guests travelled as far away as Cyprus and Monaco to see the show. 'Like Cannes, Cyprus has this deep appreciation for opulence and luxury, so Plein's dark glamour really resonated with me. Philipp Plein doesn't follow trends, he creates his own universe,' said Natalia Ellinas, CEO, Fashion Forum in Cyprus. Philipp Plein presents the Cruise 2026 Collection, 'Noir Summer Dream', over Cannes Film Festival What Plein cannot avoid is the drama on the runway, in fact, it is ever-present. Think of it as the old Hollywood filtered through Plein's over-the-top moodboard. It reminded me of Plein's recent presentation of his bespoke timepieces at Watches and Wonders 2025 in Geneva, where he unveiled three new watches — the King Phantom, Crypto King, and Diamond Queen — which, unsurprisingly, do not whisper the time so much as pronounce it. Crafted from sapphire crystal and industrial-grade steel, the watches attempt to marry famous Swiss precision with Plein's signature flair. The King Phantom's exposed mechanics mirror the architectural cuts of a leather trench shown in Cannes. The Diamond Queen watch, an over-the-top glittering, gem-encrusted beast of a timepiece, seems tailor-made for the same woman wearing crystal mesh at the Cruise Runway show in Cannes. In both collections, the message from Plein is consistent: luxury should be loud, unapologetic, and with a strong slice of Plein's DNA. 'I am drawn to and inspired by the Plein aesthetic because of how strong his looks are,' said Yasya Minochkina, Monaco-based fashion designer. Philipp Plein presents the Cruise 2026 Collection, 'Noir Summer Dream', over Cannes Film Festival Originally trained in law and launching his design career with crystal-studded luxury dog beds, Plein founded his namesake label 25 years ago, a testament to the entrepreneur he is. Philipp Plein is a ringmaster in the circus of opulence, and, arguably, a character of his own creation. With tattooed arms, and a taste for skulls and superyachts, he has cultivated a persona that merges business and bravado. Being a "luxury rebel" as he calls himself, Plein challenges the traditional, understated luxury market trends. To critics, he's a showman but to his fans, and there are many, he has built a universe where opulence is not looked down upon but celebrated. 'If you want to be boring, there's enough of that in fashion,' said Plein. Philipp Plein presents the Cruise 2026 Collection, 'Noir Summer Dream', over Cannes Film Festival His business model backs that up. Headquartered in Lugano, Switzerland, the self-financed label operates over 110 boutiques across the globe. It remains one of the few large independent luxury brands in an increasingly conglomerate-driven industry. Back at Cannes, Plein's ethos was on full display. Although Noir Summer Dream wasn't about resort utility per se, it was a confident reminder of Plein's manifesto: that fashion, at its most unrestrained can be a thrilling celebration of individuality. Yes it's over the top, but in a world increasingly obsessed with 'quiet luxury' and 'stealth wealth,' Plein's loud confidence feels excitingly convincing.
Elle
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Elle
Louis Vuitton's Cruise 2026 Documentary Shows Magical Details You Might Have Missed From The Show
'Have you ever truly experienced a Nicholas Ghesquière show?' asks fashion commentator Tuba Avalon. Now, thanks to a special new documentary, Runway Reflections: Tales from Avignon, you don't have to be a fashion editor to be able to answer yes to that question. The 16-minute documentary narrated by Avalon takes viewers inside the making of Louis Vuitton's magical Cruise 2026 show in Avignon, France. Filmed in the days leading up to the show, it gives a rare insight into the inner workings of Ghesquière's artistry and what it takes to organise a standout destination fashion show. Ghesquière's Cruise 2026 show was a fashion moment for the ages, set against the grandeur of Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in 1335. The designer chose the venue not just for its breathtaking architecture, but for a deeply personal reason – his own encounter with the space during the 2000 'La Beauté in Fabula' art exhibition, where American video artist Bill Viola's installation left a long-lasting mark on him. It was, 'an aesthetic shock… like collisions of time,' Ghesquière recalls. It was a vision that he wanted to echo for his own show. Ghesquière embraces the theatricality of fashion, believing clothing 'project an image of charisma, accentuating a style, and character,' not just on the runway, but in life, he says. The film also explores his take on 'fashion time travel' as he reinterprets Arthurian mythologies, liturgical embroidery and glam rock at its best. The film takes us backstage for last-minute fittings and hair and makeup, and introduces us to the talents such as set designers, photographers and other artisans. It also features friends of the brand like K-pop fan favourite Felix and French film director Justine Triet. Far more than a behind-the-scenes glance, Runway Reflections: Tales From Avignon provides immersive and detailed storytelling, giving an insight into what really goes into making a Louis Vuitton show. The documentary is available to stream exclusively on YouTube. Click here to watch the full film. ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE.
Fashion United
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Fashion United
Gucci celebrating the house's monogram with Emily Ratajkowski: A GG obsession
Framed by the shifting light of a day in Cannes, Gucci introduces the new campaign dedicated to the GG Monogram, capturing Emily Ratajkowski in a series of curated moments, from pauses on city corners to the late-day glow along the promenade. Credits: Gucci Photographed by Daniel Arnold, the campaign unfolds a balance of presence and ease, movement and stillness. As the protagonists move effortlessly between the city's crowds and the carefree calm of the beach, their journey is threaded by one constant, the GG Monogram. Worn across a spectrum of pieces, from new handbags to archival-inspired travel silhouettes from the Gucci Savoy line tracing back to the House's beginnings in the world of luggage, the motif becomes a discreet companion, a signature presence woven into the everyday. Credits: Gucci Credits: Gucci Central to this narrative is the recently debuted Gucci Giglio handbag. Unveiled during the Cruise 2026 fashion show in Florence, Gucci Giglio pays homage to the House's roots, celebrating the Giglio, the lily emblem synonymous with the city since medieval times. Debuting at the historic Gucci Archive, the piece reflects over a century of artisanal mastery, innovation, and expressive design, drawing on archival codes and heritage techniques while embracing modern craftsmanship. Credits: Gucci The campaign also introduces a new chapter of the Ophidia collection. Drawing from handbag and accessory silhouettes of the late 1970s, the new Ophidia pieces feature soft GG Monogram coated canvas, green cotton lining, the Double G emblem in polished light gold metal, and the signature Web stripe that boldly defines each silhouette. A highlight of the campaign is the Mini GG handbag, a new design available for pre-order online and in store, which reimagines the House's signature duffle style in a compact form. Rooted in the legacy of Guccio Gucci's original valigeria creations, the GG Monogram emerges once again as more than a design, it is a living code. A visual signature that adapts, evolves, and endures across time and collections. More than a campaign, this is a study of identity: a GG obsession.
