Fashion Brands Defy Time

Sam Parr shares his perspective on the remarkable longevity of fashion brands, expressing surprise and admiration for their ability to remain relevant across decades and even centuries, despite operating in a trend-driven industry.

• Surprising Durability of Fashion Brands

  • Challenges initial stereotype that fashion brands are merely trendy and temporary
  • Notes that fashion brands are among the longest-lasting companies he can think of
  • Specifically mentions Adidas, Puma, and Louis Vuitton as examples

• Notable Examples of Longevity

  • Louis Vuitton luggage has existed since the early 1900s
  • Nike Cortez remains relevant from first version to present day
  • Mentions other enduring luxury brands like Rolex and Tiffany's

• Impressive Industry Context

  • Fashion is particularly challenging due to:
    • High competition ("everybody wants to do it")
    • Rapid trend cycles ("in and out of style so quickly")
  • Makes survival even more remarkable

• Brand Resilience

  • Points to Adidas as example of brand surviving:
    • Near bankruptcy
    • Multiple ownership changes
    • Still "kicks ass" and remains relevant
  • Describes it as "succeeding in spite of itself"

• Personal Reflection

  • Finds it "inspiring" to create something that can last 50-200 years
  • Views this longevity as "pretty damn cool"
  • Acknowledges this achievement is possible in other industries but finds it particularly impressive in fashion