New York Fashion Week is over, and Paris Fashion Week is by invitation only … Fortunately, there’s no shortage of fashion and style when it comes to Lehigh alumni. We asked some professionals in the industry what they think is the greatest current challenge in fashion — and what item in their wardrobe they couldn’t do without.
Sage Chasen ’19, B.S. IDEAS and Industrial and Systems Engineering (pictured above)
Manager, Supply Chain, Louis Vuitton
Supply chain rules and relevance
“From a supply chain and sustainability lens, overproduction is a huge issue across the industry (less so in the luxury world as our products aren’t mass-produced). The more lean and agile the supply chain is, the better. Another challenge for many brands is relevance: How can we improve retail experiences and keep our clients engaged?”
What I’m wearing now
“I recently purchased one of Virgil Abloh’s coveted puppet baseball jackets — such a special piece!”
Mark Katz ’85, B.S. Accounting
COO and CFO, Vera Wang Group
Scary times
“The biggest problem right now is navigating all the uncertainty: supply chain, inflation, the remnants of COVID.”
Go-to fashion
“For everyday, I love relaxed, easy business attire — designer joggers and a black blazer. For events, Vera Wang Black has the best blue suit as well as three different tuxes that can be found at Men’s Wearhouse.”
Elise Hassan ’11, B.S. Marketing
Senior Manager, Buying & Merchandising, Tory Burch
Smart customers
“The biggest challenge right now is how knowledgeable the customer is. They shop the market extensively before making decisions, and they understand price point and quality very well. The customer is happy to mix high and low price points/quality —a top from Zara with Madewell jeans but with a Prada handbag and Gucci sneakers.”
Favorite go-to outfit
“My boot-cut jeans and lug-sole boots, paired with cozy sweaters or chic button-downs.”
Dave Canfield ’14, B.S. Finance, Marketing
Head of Corporate Strategy and Business Development, Saks OFF 5TH
Rapidly changing trends
“In 2023, the greatest problem is the rapid pace at which consumer sentiment, macroeconomic conditions, and trends are changing — faster than ever before. That means investments need to be focused on delivering short-term benefit and grounded in proven customer KPIs (key performance indicators).”
What I’m wearing now and what’s trending
“I’m ready for spring and have brought out denim, suede, and a military-inspired bomber to lean into the warm weather we’re experiencing. In terms of trends, we’re in a strong apparel cycle: Invest in statement jackets, high-quality sweaters, and new denim, dresses, and an occasional accessory.”
Melissa Feeney ’16, B.S. Marketing
Senior Analyst, Customer Analytics, PVH Corp.
It’s all about the data
“Not a challenge, more of an opportunity: the ability to capture, wrangle, and derive meaningful insights from all the various data sources. One of my favorite sources is customer reviews — they help improve product, presentation, and promotion. The industry is making great strides to move toward being more data-driven. I’m excited to see what the future holds!”
Favorite wardrobe item
“A new pair of light pink leather loafers! The color is fun but also muted, which makes it work as a neutral that can pair well with a bunch of different looks all year round.”