THIS WEEK SUMMED UP
We’re all going to be robots in perfectly fitting clothes. Also, Oprah.
Reading Time: 2 minutes and 3 seconds
THREE PARTS THAT MATTER
Marketing
Current research shows that over 24% of online apparel purchases get returned—at a cost of $38 billion. The #1 reason people initiate returns? The fits, well, don’t fit. Now, *retailers are tackling “wrong size” frustration* with tools that create sophisticated 3D avatars based on customers’ measurements. That means shoppers can check details like length and proportion as well as basic sizing. Here’s to getting the right jacket every time!
Speaking of jackets, Phoebe Philo’s *long-awaited second collection* has everyone talking about her unique approach to design and marketing (don’t call it a drop, it’s a delivery). The brand’s return policy is also making waves—to initiate a return, a customer is required to email photos of themselves wearing the garment before a request is approved. No one wants to take photos of an unflattering piece on themselves, however it provides the brand with critical data on how the garments fit real people. Besides, what’s a few unflattering photos when they are what stands between you and a *$8800* refund?
Culture
In *a new primetime special* this week, Oprah Winfrey shared her journey with weight-loss drugs, a category that includes—and is dominated by—Ozempic. Winfrey was thrilled with her experience, but *data suggests* as many as 2 out of 3 patients quit because of side effects. One thing’s for certain, the market for these meds is soaring: J.P. Morgan Research says it’ll be worth *more than $100 billion* by 2030.
It’s worth noting that ABC aired the special during The Bachelor’s usual timeslot. Bachelor Nation was NOT happy, but Ozempic is on their minds now, and that was probably the point.
Technology
Apple is considering, licensing Google’s AI engine, Gemini, for use in new iPhones. Makes sense: Cupertino hasn’t kept up with emerging LLM technology, while Gemini has won industry praise. On the other hand, we have to wonder if Apple will really give up on AI development, and if so, what that would mean for its future. Only time, or the U.S. Justice Department, will tell.
Did you see the new Iron Man movie? Oh, sorry, that was just Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and his robot friends.
WHAT ELSE WE ARE READING