Gucci owner Kering is backing Chinese fashion brand Icicle. Can it become a global luxury name?
Buoyed by success at home, Shanghai-founded Icicle is setting its sights on London, Milan and the US. With backing from Gucci owner Kering, the brand is betting that Chinese luxury can find a place on the global stage.
Chinese fashion brand Icicle, founded in 1997, is gaining international recognition with backing from Gucci owner Kering. The Shanghai-based label, specializing in minimalist ready-to-wear clothing made from cashmere and silk, aims to open stores in London, Milan, and the US. Icicle already operates around 240 international outlets in China and five in Paris and Ireland.
Former Gucci designer Sabato De Sarno joined as creative director last week. The brand's success stems from understanding the needs of affluent Chinese professionals, offering premium-priced items priced between £100 and £5,000. Kering's investment aims to accelerate Icicle's international expansion and provide expertise in European craftsmanship and brand development.
Despite a slowdown in the luxury sector, Icicle's partnership with Kering is seen as a vote of confidence and a chance to learn from each other's markets and strategies.
Written by urgent.news from CNA - Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
