In Episode 103 of This Week in E-commerce, Mal Chia and Alex Ross dive into the biggest trends, scandals, and pop culture crossovers shaking up retail this week.
From AI-generated “digital slop” to the Gen Z-led thrifting boom and the impact of Taylor Swift’s diamond ring, this episode explores how brand trust, creativity, and consumer behaviour continue to evolve in unexpected ways.
🔑 Key topics this week:
🧠 AI-generated ads and the backlash:
J.Crew and Guess slammed for using AI models, sparking backlash over authenticity and even “digital blackface”
Why customers feel deceived and what brands need to consider around trust, ethics, and creative integrity
When it’s helpful to use AI (and when it crosses the line)
👛 The Thrifting Boom is Real:
87% of NSW adults shopped secondhand this year
Why Gen Z loves the thrill of the find and personalised style
Savers opens a “thrift megastore” and Vinny’s builds its tech stack
💎 Taylor Swift, Devil Wears Prada & Fashion Pop Culture:
Devil Wears Prada 2 is already shaping editorial trends
Swift’s natural diamond sends ripples through the engagement ring market
Travis Kelce’s American Eagle collab and redefining masculinity in retail
🧢 Quickfire stories:
Mosaic Brands hit with a $25M fine for failing to deliver nearly 740,000 orders
Setire posts a $12M swing into the red and pivots to Asia
HomeCo Ballarat sells for $54M, highlighting the importance of regional retail hubs
The bag charm trend is officially mainstream
