These are the stories making headlines in fashion on Thursday.
Aurora James and the 15 Percent Pledge Sued for Fraud
Aurora James is being sued alongside her organization the 15 Percent Pledge and its fiscal sponsor Philanthropic Ventures Foundation by The Gathery, the Brooklyn creative agency that produced the nonprofit’s 2026 gala. First reported by Carson Griffith’s “Rich People Shit,” the case centers on a complaint regarding an unpaid bill of $777.871.84 in principal, with the lawsuit seeking damages of at least $1,082,965.28 (including interest and legal fees). The Gathery alleges that James continued approving work despite the 15 Percent Pledge not having the money. {Rich People Shit; Business of Fashion/paywalled}
H&M Group Sales Rise by 1% in Q3
H&M Group released its Q3 2026 earnings on Thursday, which showed sales in local currencies increased by 1% and net sales rose to SEK 57.19 billion ($5.77 billion). Its third-quarter sales were affected by disruptions in the global supply chain. Gross profit increased to SEK 30.87 billion ($3.12 billion), corresponding to a gross margin of 54%. The H&M Group’s sales in September 2026 are expected to increase by 1% in local currencies. {H&M Group}
Arnault Family To Simplify LVMH’s Ownership Structure
The Arnault family is planning to simplify the ownership structure of LVMH, placing almost all of its stake in the group in a single listed entity, Agache SCA. This would replace the major LVMH holding company Christian Dior SE. This is the latest move by Bernard Arnault to tighten the family’s control over the company and prepare it for an eventual succession. {Bloomberg/paywalled}
Interparfums, Inc. Lands Worldwide License Agreement With Puma
Interparfums, Inc. signed an exclusive worldwide license agreement with Puma for the creation, development, production and distribution of fragrances under the sports brand’s name. Interparfums plans to introduce this new fragrance in 2027 under a license agreement that runs through Dec. 31, 2037. {Interparfums, Inc.}
How the EU’s New Greenwashing Rules Impact Fashion
Through the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (or EmpCo), Europe will require all sustainability claims to be proven by third-party evidence like a certification or government backed label starting Sept. 27. Claims such as carbon offsetting or carbon neutrality are blacklisted. The crackdown could lead to increased “greenhushing,” where brands undercommunicate to legally protect themselves. {Vogue Business/paywalled}