February has been a big month for fashion, from major runway moments to industry shake-ups. New York, London, and Milan Fashion Weeks delivered bold statements, with Calvin Klein’s return and punk influences taking center stage. Meanwhile, Nike and Skims announced an unexpected collaboration, and Shein faced financial setbacks. In the U.S., new sustainability regulations signal progress in tackling textile waste, while Primark expands its click-and-collect service to stay competitive. Here’s a quick roundup of the biggest fashion news this month.
1. February Fashion Weeks Recap
New York Fashion week at the beginning of February saw the return of Calvin Klein to the runway for the first time since 2018. Marc Jacobs hosted a theatrical show in the New York Public Library, featuring exaggerated silhouettes. Across the pond, in London, Burberry presented what is speculated to be Daniel Lee’s last collection for the brand, while punk and emo themes defined Simone Rocha and Harris Reed’s shows. To conclude February’s fashion weeks, Milan kicked off with the currently designer-less Gucci, showcasing a collection recreated from two years ago. DSquared2 marked their 30 year anniversary collection that emphasises their signature lavish, over-the-top style.
2. Nike launches a collaboration with Skims
Set to debut in the Spring, NikeSkims will feature figure-hugging activewear, footwear and accessories, alongside sportswear. Nike aims to refocus on sportswomen, a move that has already boosted their shares. After launching in the US, the collection will roll out globally in 2026. Though unexpected, Skims has previously collaborated with the sports world, becoming the official underwear partner for the NBA, WNBA and USAB late in 2023.
3. Shein’s profits decline
Amid growing competition from Temu and difficulties navigating Donald Trump’s new tariffs, Shein’s profits have taken a hit, falling $7 billion short of their 2024 projections. Over the past year, profits have declined by 40%, and the company is struggling to reach its targets. Shein’s attempt to list on the London Stock Exchange has also been subject to scrutiny due to questions surrounding the organisation’s lack of ethical labour practices.
4. New US sustainability regulations
On February 5th, new legislation was approved to tackle textile waste in the USA. Not only is this a positive move towards more circularity within the fashion industry, but allows textiles to be recognised within federal recycling initiatives. This means that, with an initial grant, the new regulations will make transportation and collection of these discarded textiles to a recycling hub easier and less expensive. It will also increase the number of “curbside recycling programmes”, meaning it will be more convenient for the public to properly dispose of their old clothes.
5. Primark announce Click-and-Collect
Since testing a click-and-collect service in November 2022, Primark has decided to increase the scale of the service and add 18 more locations. This now notably includes Manchester Market Street and the Trafford Palazzo stores. Previously, only Kidswear and Babywear was available to order and pick up in-store, but this expansion is adding womenswear, menswear and homeware to the service. 131 stores will now offer the service— a wise move from Primark, as although their prices are low enough to compete with the likes of Shein and Temu, their lack of online convenience sets them back. A 6.4% drop in sales was reported in January so this roll-out has come at the right time.
