loose threads

Francisco Costa Thinks Fashion Is Ready for Women; Dress-Rental Site Gets Tons of Money

Calvin Klein designer Francisco Costa continues to say lovely things about the face of his collection for fall, Lara Stone: “My clothes look better on a more diverse casting — to represent the women who actually buy them. They can be 35 or 25 but they need to be worn on intelligent, experienced women … Lara was our exclusive four years ago. We’ve never had someone who really represented our houses and all our licensees in the same way. She is very current, very beautiful and very womanly. It’s time for that persona and for that body. She’s divine, gorgeous and we will support her in that.” [Vogue UK]

• Milliner Stephen Jones will make a cameo in Madonna’s new movie based on the life of King Edward VIII. But will that make you see it? [Vogue UK]

• Rent the Runway — a site that rents designer dresses to members — recently raised over $15 million from Highland Capital and Bain Capital, and is relocating to a 9,000-square-foot office. [WWD]

• Véronique Gautier, president of Jean Paul Gaultier, is reportedly ready to step down. [WWD]

• Balenciaga designer Nicholas Ghesquière will receive Fashion Group International’s Superstar Award this year. [Vogue UK]

• The Barneys Warehouse Sale begins August 19. Dun dun dun. [Racked NY]

• Jeffery-West, the British shoe line worn by David Bowie and David Beckham, is coming stateside. [T Magazine/NYT]

• Nicky Hilton is still designing, and is launching a line of rhinestone-heavy costume jewelry this fall. [WWD]

• Ruben Toledo is illustrating Louis Vuitton’s latest batch of city guides, which will be available October 15. [WWD]

Francisco Costa Thinks Fashion Is Ready for Women; Dress-Rental Site Gets Tons of Money