### Tapestry and Capri Holdings: The Cancellation of an $8.5 Billion Merger

In a notable shift within the fashion realm, **Tapestry, Inc.** and **Capri Holdings** have jointly opted to cancel their much-anticipated $8.5 billion merger. This move follows legal hurdles from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which initiated a lawsuit to prevent the merger on antitrust grounds. A federal judge sided with the FTC in October 2024, effectively putting a stop to the acquisition process. Both firms have expressed that terminating the agreement is in their best interest considering the unpredictable legal environment.

### The Proposed Merger: An Expected Transformation That Fell Short

The merger was intended to forge a formidable player in the luxury fashion arena by merging Tapestry’s brands—**Coach**, **Kate Spade**, and **Stuart Weitzman**—with Capri Holdings’ offerings, which encompass **Michael Kors**, **Jimmy Choo**, and **Versace**. The alliance was anticipated to bolster global market presence and create a conglomerate capable of challenging renowned European luxury brands like LVMH and Kering.

Nonetheless, the FTC’s intervention raised alarms regarding diminished competition in the market, which could lead to increased prices and reduced options for consumers. The legal skirmish and subsequent decision favoring the FTC highlighted the growing scrutiny on mergers and acquisitions within the luxury domain.

### Industry Consequences

The cancellation of this merger illustrates wider challenges facing the fashion industry, where consolidation is frequently viewed as a tactic to address economic uncertainties and evolving consumer demands. While the failure of the merger is a disappointment for both organizations, it also signals an intensified regulatory atmosphere that may influence upcoming agreements in the industry.

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### Carolina Herrera and Frame: A Denim Collaboration

In other fashion updates, **Carolina Herrera** has joined forces with **Frame** to introduce its inaugural denim capsule collection. This collaboration fuses Frame’s denim expertise with Carolina Herrera’s distinctive vibrant style. The collection, which premiered at the Carolina Herrera Resort 2024 runway event in Mexico City, showcases five silhouettes priced between $498 and $1,198.

Available at Carolina Herrera and Frame retail outlets, as well as luxury retailers like **Net-a-Porter**, **Neiman Marcus**, and **Bergdorf Goodman**, the collection is set to appeal to both devoted followers of the brands and new customers attracted by its unique style blend.

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### SZA Graces British *Vogue’s* December 2024 Cover

**SZA**, the chart-topping musician and songwriter, graces the cover of British *Vogue’s* December 2024 edition. Captured by **Nadine Ijewere** and styled by **Julia Sarr-Jamois**, SZA dons a striking **Alexander McQueen** green cable knit cardigan and skirt on the cover. In the accompanying interview, she candidly discusses her relationship with fame, her choice to undergo a BBL, and her experience headlining at Glastonbury.

The issue, hitting newsstands on November 19, provides an intimate glimpse into one of music’s most compelling figures, further establishing SZA’s impact in both the entertainment and fashion spheres.

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### Alexa Chung x Madewell: A Second Capsule Collection

Building on the success of her initial collaboration with **Madewell**, **Alexa Chung** has unveiled a second limited-edition capsule collection. The 15-piece line features versatile items such as a corduroy blazer and mini skirt, a silk Western shirt, and denim essentials. Priced between $118 and $348, the collection is now available on Madewell’s website.

This collaboration continues to demonstrate Chung’s knack for blending classic design with modern trends, appealing to a broad audience of fashion aficionados.

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### LVMH Prize 2025: Applications Now Open

The esteemed **LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers** is currently welcoming applications for its 2025 iteration. Open to designers aged 18 to 40 who have produced at least two ready-to-wear collections, the prize offers a €400,000 financial award and personalized mentorship for the winner. Additional accolades include the **Karl Lagerfeld Prize** and the **Savoir-Faire Prize**, each providing €200,000 and a year of mentorship.

Applications for the LVMH Prize remain open until January 12, 2025, while fashion school graduates can submit their applications for the graduate prize until March 30. This initiative continues to foster emerging talent in the fashion sector, offering a platform for innovation and creativity.

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### Diesel x Damiano David: A Genderless Capsule Collection

**Diesel** has collaborated with its global ambassador, musician **Damiano David**, to develop a genderless capsule collection. Co-designed with Diesel’s Creative Director **Glenn Martens**, the 13-look collection showcases edgy items such as burnout jersey tops, ultra-wide-leg drawstring trousers, and oversized denim.