May 3, 2025 by Faraz Khan

Fashion Retail Developments 5-2-2025

Table of Contents

Here’s a roundup of the latest developments in the global fashion retail industry as of May 3, 2025:

Major Retail Closures and Restructuring

Forever 21 has permanently closed all 354 of its U.S. stores following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in March. The company cited rising operational costs and stiff foreign competition, particularly from retailers like Shein and Temu, as reasons for its business model becoming unsustainable. International operations remain unaffected. Vogue Business
Bonmarché, a UK-based fashion retailer, announced the closure of its Hemel Hempstead store in July, following a recent closure in Derbyshire. The company attributes these closures to rising operational costs and changing consumer habits, including a shift toward online shopping. The Scottish Sun
Vintage Outfitters, a popular vintage clothing store in Edinburgh, Scotland, is closing after three years in operation. The store has launched a significant closing-down sale offering 80% off all items. The closure reflects broader challenges in the retail sector, including high energy costs and a shift to online shopping. The Scottish Sun

How Brands Trick You with Fake Luxury

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has ended the de minimis exemption for shipments under $800 from China and Hong Kong. This policy change requires formal customs entry, duties, and detailed documentation for all packages from these regions, significantly impacting fast fashion retailers like Shein and Temu, which relied on low-cost, rapid cross-border shipping. Vogue Business
In response to these changes, British retailer Oh Polly has increased prices in the U.S. by 20% compared to its other markets and may consider further price hikes due to higher tariffs. Reuters

Latest Developments in Fashion Technology 25-4

Dolce & Gabbana celebrated the opening of its new flagship store at 695 Madison Avenue in New York with a glamorous event attended by celebrities. The five-story boutique features luxurious interiors, including a glass penthouse with a bar and a massive Murano chandelier, and offers exclusive items and made-to-measure services. New York Post
J.Crew Factory is expanding its presence in Connecticut with a new store in The Shops at Farmington Valley in Canton. This addition brings the brand’s total outlets in the state to seven, with plans for another store in Cheshire by the end of 2025. CT Insider

Nicole Richie has been named the 2025 brand ambassador for Fashionphile, a secondhand luxury retailer. She curated a special collection featuring pre-owned accessories from high-end designers, promoting sustainability and timeless fashion. People.com
Matalan has introduced a £10 Tan Mule Sandal that closely resembles the £610 Hermes Oran sandals, offering a budget-friendly alternative. This move is part of a broader trend of high street retailers offering fashionable dupes for high-end designer items.