Clare Waight Keller is appointed as the creative director for Uniqlo.
Uniqlo and GU Brand Expand Presence in North America and Europe
Fast Retailing, the parent company of Uniqlo and GU, is making a significant push into the North American and European markets.
In a strategic move, Uniqlo is planning to open more than 20 new stores in the U.S. and Canada this year, with an aim to open 30 stores annually in both regions. Meanwhile, GU, Fast Retailing's casual clothing brand, is set to launch e-commerce operations in the U.S. and open a flagship store in New York.
Uniqlo's expansion strategy is not limited to physical stores. The company has appointed Clare Waight Keller as its creative director, a move that reflects a growing trend of mass-market brands collaborating with luxury companies and designers. Keller, who previously held top creative roles at luxury fashion houses Givenchy and Chloé, will lead the Uniqlo mainline collection, including menswear, beginning with the fall-winter 2024 collection.
Keller's work with Uniqlo will focus on elevating the brand's "LifeWear" line, which emphasises simplicity, quality, and longevity in everyday wear. Her first collection under Uniqlo, the Uniqlo : C collection, included items such as suiting separates, tops, skirts, sweaters, and more. Prices in the Uniqlo : C collection ranged from $30 to $150.
Keller's hire by Uniqlo was not her first foray into the mass-market sector. She previously collaborated with Uniqlo as a designer for the Uniqlo : C womenswear project. Her work with Uniqlo : C included elevated basics in fabrics such as gabardine twill, corduroy, and cashmere.
The Uniqlo : C launch marked Keller's first collection since leaving Givenchy in 2020. Time magazine named Keller one of the most influential people in 2019, further solidifying her status in the fashion industry.
Uniqlo's collaboration with Keller is not its only notable partnership. The brand has also collaborated with British designer Anya Hindmarch, adding deconstructed details to fast fashion knitwear.
Fast Retailing's GU brand is also making strides in the U.S. market. The brand is launching e-commerce operations and a flagship store in New York, marking its entry into the U.S. retail scene.
These moves by Fast Retailing and Uniqlo indicate a commitment to expanding their presence in the North American and European markets, positioning them as key players in the global fashion industry.
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