Carol Spieckerman

Macy's Holds Open Call for New Designers

January 25, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
At least somewhat established designers are being invited to introduce their work to Macy's fashion directors, buyers and merchants at "Macy's Open Call," a program created to find resources in existence who are not current Macy's vendors. What's the likelihood that such casting calls will help Macy's uncover new talent and resources?      [more...]

To me, the Open Call concept is more relevant as a way to draw young people to the store. If Macy's main goal was to add newness to the store and support up-and-coming designers, a designer casting call would not be necessary. After all, these days, there are the big conglomerates (LVMH, Gucci) and everyone else. In the everyone else category, many are in need of funding and the logistical support that will take them to the next level of distribution. Independent hold-outs such as Rodarte and Kawakubo are the (to-be-admired) exception.