As an editor of Retail Dive, it's my job to keep tabs on every piece of retail-related news—the good, the bad, and the silly. From the new Chuck Taylor to a sample of Madewell-inspired fiction, below are some of the most interesting reads from the past week.
Wayne Campbell has a new pair of shoes
To the surprise of almost no one, Converse realized that its iconized Chuck Taylor shoe just isn't all that comfortable. According to Fast Company, the shoemaker is unrolling the Chuck II, the first new design of the shoe in 100 years, with new technology including "Lunarlon sockliner for cushioning and arch support" and a "non-slip gusseted tongue for comfort."
Carrie Bradshaw, is that you?
To the shock and disillusionment of fashion fans, Sarah Jessica Parker announced that she will be partnering with Wal-Mart to be the new face of Jordache jeans.
A brewski with that bridge pose
With a mission to attract more male customers with both wicking shirts and alcohol, Lululemon released its limited craft beer this week. Curiosity Lager will be distributed at some stores in Canada and at Lululemon's half marathon in August.
Madewell ‘micro-fiction’
Gawker’s Dayna Evans took some creative liberty with the eclectic-yet-sometimes-not-so-practical looks in Madewell's fall lookbook, providing some of the shots with their own pepper jelly and overall-loving short stories.
An example:
Morgan confronted Dean.
"I thought you loved me."
Dean only shook his head. "I can’t love a woman who wears overalls, Morgan. You knew that about me."
"But I am also wearing a blazer."
He threw up his hands and turned away. "That’s not enough!!"
Goop is getting serious
Love her or hate her, you can't deny that Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop is a modern day business feat. Racked's Chavie Lieber explores the daily workings of the newsletter turned e-commerce operation, with a HQ that "smells like essential oils" and meetings outside in the fresh California canyon air.