Carla Bruni Addresses Body Comments: In the June issue of Vanity Fair, France’s former first lady opens up about all the negative attention she received from the press following the birth of her daughter, Giulia. “They say, ‘She’s fat,’” Bruni told Vanity Fair’s Maureen Orth. “They get really nasty. Nothing is out of bounds.” She also addressed the much-discussed pantsuit she wore while exiting the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the French president, for the last time, which spurred rumors that she was sending some sort of subtle message: “Good riddance, I’ve had it,” she said of the ensemble. “Not at all. Those were the only pants I could get into!” [Vanity Fair]
Riccardo Tisci’s Ballet Costumes: Riccardo Tisci unveiled his stage costumes for the Paris ballet Boléro last night at the Opéra Garnier in Paris. The Givenchy creative director's designs included a flowy nude tulle dress layered over a skeleton-embroidered catsuit. In reference to the costumes, Tisci said in a release: "Boléro is all about intensity! The music has such an intense feeling. I wanted the dancers to feel naked somehow. The costumes express two sides of me: darkness and romanticism." [Fashion Beast Inbox]
K-Stew Reportedly Still Models for Balenciaga: When designer Alexander Wang assumed his post at Balenciaga, many were unsure whether the label's former model, Kristen Stewart – who only recently pledged her allegiance to former Balenciaga designer Nicolas Ghesquière in an interview with German magazine 032c – would continue to rep the brand. Despite a whirlwind of negative press surrounding her affair with her Snow White and the Huntsman director Rupert Sanders, Wang's public support of Sanders’ wife, British model Liberty Ross, and the fact that Stewart has yet to wear any of Wang’s designs for Balenciaga, The Cut has learned that Stewart’s contract with Balenciaga is intact and that she's set to front a slew of upcoming fragrance ads. [The Cut]
Orthodox Jewish Woman Sues Lancôme: An Orthodox Jewish woman named Rorie Weisberg is taking legal action against cosmetics company Lancôme, arguing that its Teint Idle Ultra 24H foundation does not last a full 24 hours as described – and does not retain its effect long enough to last through the Sabbath, the Jewish day of rest in which Jewish law forbids observers from applying makeup. Weisberg’s suit reads: “The 24-hour claim was central to plaintiff’s purchase decision, as a long-lasting makeup assists with her dual objectives of compliance with religious law and enhancement to her natural appearance.” Weisberg is seeking unspecified damages from Lancôme and parent company L’Oréal. A spokeswoman for L’Oréal issued a response to the claims: "Lancôme strongly believes that this lawsuit has no merit and stands proudly behind our products. We will strenuously contest these allegations in court. Consistent with our practice and policy, however, as this matter is currently in litigation, we cannot comment further." [New York Post]
Chinese Factories Attempt to Lure Employees: A shortage in the Chinese workforce has prompted factories in China to adopt new work incentives in order to retain employees. According to the Wall Street Journal, companies are hosting singing contests, speed dating events, and building karaoke rooms to urge employees to return to work. [WSJ]