Fashion Reverie’s 2012 Fashion News Picks

As Yves Saint Laurent once said, “fashions fade, style is eternal.”

True to Yves Saint Laurent’s quote, 2012 was a year of transitions, new beginnings and interesting collaborations. From the passing of Vogue Italia editor Anna Piaggi to Alexander Wang’s new job to Betsey Johnson’s financial woes, 2012 proved to be a year of shake-ups and re-assessments. But, then again fashion is all about change, and 2012 was no exception.

Here is Fashion Reverie’s list of the top ten newsworthy stories of 2012.

Anna Piaggi Transitions

Iconic editor of Vogue Italia, Anna Piaggi passed away in her Milan home August 7. Known for introducing the double page, a two-page collage of text and photos, Piaggi was just as well-known  for her colorful wardrobe as her work at Vogue Italia. Piaggi was 81-years-old.

Betsey Johnson Files Bankruptcy

The fashion community was shocked in April when Johnson filed for bankruptcy forcing her to close all of her 63 stores and lay off 350 workers. With the bankruptcy Johnson retained the title of creative director and would continue to design accessories and moderately priced sportswear that is sold is major retail stores like Macy’s.

Alexander Wang at Balenciaga 

Alexander Wang was named the new creative director of Balenciaga. The 28-year-old American now juggles Balenciaga and his own label. Wang will bring a younger, edgy style to the almost 100-year-old brand. Wang replaced Nicolas Ghesquiere, who has had been the creative director of the brand for several seasons.

Simon Spurr Abandons 

In March 2012, Simon Spurr shocked the fashion industry by quitting his own label just two days after his nomination by the CFDA for best menswear designer. Leaving over a disagreement with Judd Nydes, his business partner, the label will continue without Spurr’s continued contributions.

Rucci’s New CEO 

Jeffry M. Aronson has signed on as the new Chief Executive Officer of Chado Ralph Rucci. An industry veteran, Jeffry Aronson was formerly CEO of Oscar de la Renta, Ltd., Marc Jacobs International, Ltd., Donna Karan International, Ltd., and Emanuel Ungaro, SAS. Ralph Rucci will remain the Chief Creative Officer of Chado Ralph Rucci.

Siriano Lands NYC

In 2012, season four Project Runway winner, Christian Siriano opened his signature store in New York City. Although Christiano opened the NYC store with a “soft launch” in late July, the signature store opened to the public on September 5^. The boutique will feature garments from his runway collections, as well as  accessories, home décor, and much more.

Target And Neiman Marcus Collaborate 

A Neiman Marcus and Target collaboration was announced in July stating that they would be collaborating together for a limited edition Holiday 2012 collection. Starting back in December, they will feature pieces from 24 CFDA designers, including Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg, Jason Wu, Oscar de la Renta, Eddie Borgo, and others.

YSL Changes Official Name 

Yves Saint Laurent creative director, Hedi Slimane, announced that the fashion house will drop “Yves” from its name. The famous interlocking YSL logo is now replaced with a simpler white block design with the lettering, Saint Laurent Paris.

CFDA Adds Guidelines

President of the CFDA, Diane Von Furstenberg, announced last January that new rules and regulations would be effects for models for the fall/winter 2012-2013 season. The guidelines require that no model under that age of 16 be permitted to walk runway shows and that adequate health information is provided for models struggling with body weight issues. 

An Olympic Fashion Statement

A tribute to British fashion took place during the closing ceremony for the London 2012 Olympic Games. The fashion industry proved that style and design is a part of even the most unlikely events. Top models included Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, and featured designs by British designers Alexander McQueen, Erdem, Vivienne Westwood, Christopher Kane, and Burberry.

—Cory Orlando