‘Fashion Star’ canceled, Saks acquired by Hudson’s Bay Co.
‘Fashion Star’ fizzles: NBC has canceled the reality fashion competition show “Fashion Star,” according to the Hollywood Reporter. The series, which featured Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie and menswear designer John Varvatos mentoring up-and-coming designers, had a two-season run. [Hollywood Reporter]
Saks sold: Saks Inc., parent company of the Saks Fifth Avenue luxury department store chain, was snapped up by Canadian retail giant Hudson’s Bay for $2.9 billion (including debt) reports our Business section compatriot Tiffany Hsu. [Los Angeles Times]
Mellon to launch namesake line: Jimmy Choo cofounder Tamara Mellon has detailed plans for her new namesake accessible luxury lifestyle brand to launch in November in New York. The focus will be on ‘buy now, wear now’ pieces that buck the retail system’s tradition of putting seasonal items like swimsuits and winter coats into stores months before the climate is right to wear them. [Telegraph]
Cruz Control: Penélope Cruz is about to make her directorial debut, according to fashion industry trade paper WWD. Apparently Ms. Cruz has stepped behind the camera to direct a short that showcases L’Agent, a lingerie collection she and her sister Mónica Cruz designed for Agent Provocateur. The film is set to be screened at London’s Soho Hotel on Wednesday night. [WWD, subscription required]
Canning and couture: Band of Outsiders founder and creative director Scott Sternberg and fashion journalist turned canning evangelist (can-vangelist?) Kevin West will discuss the overlapping worlds of food and fashion as part of the Hammer Conversations series Aug. 6. [All the Rage]
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