Skype Announces 'Collaboration Project'; Macys and Bloomingdales Face Racial Profiling Investigations

Skype Announces 'Collaboration Project' Featuring Victoria Beckham: On Tuesday, Skype announced the launch of a new 'Collaboration Project,' which will allow fashion innovators and entrepreneurs exclusive access to experts in the industry through its online platform. The project's keystone is a partnership with Victoria Beckham and her eponymous label, which will highlight the designer and her luxury brand as she prepares for the Fall/Winter 2014 show at New York Fashion Week. The venture, which begins in January 2014, will show behind-the-scenes footage and industry collaborations. Through its 'Conversation Series,' students and fashion mavens alike will also be able to interact with industry insiders including stylist Bay Garnett, fashion brand consultant Arieta Mujay, and award-winning textile designer Suki Cheema. [Skype Press Release]

Macy’s and Bloomingdale's Face Racial Profiling Investigations: Department stores Macy’s and Bloomindale's have been issued subpoenas to provide the New York City Human Rights Commission with documents by December 10 for an investigation into racial profiling. The requested documents pertain to the store's policies on shoplifting prevention and detaining individuals suspected of theft. “It is disappointing that they have not fully cooperated in the commission’s investigation,” Patricia L. Gatling, NYC Human Rights Commissioner, told WWD. The commission will also issue subpoenas to other unresponsive stores involved in the investigation, including Old Navy and Banana Republic. [WWD]

Chloé Founder Gaby Aghion to Receive Legion of Honor: Gaby Aghion, who founded French luxury label Chloé in 1952, is set to receive the Legion of Honour, the highest decoration in France. The order, created by Napoleon in 1802, has also been awarded to Anna Wintour, Cecil Beaton, and Valentino Garavani. Aghion, now 92 years old, will receive the medal from Aurélie Filippetti, the French culture and communications minister, at a ceremony on December 17. [Vogue UK]

Rita Ora Cast in 50 Shades of Grey: Singer Rita Ora announced Monday night at the British Fashion Awards that she has been cast in the 50 Shades of Grey film alongside Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson. Twenty-three-year-old Ora will play Mia Grey, Christian’s adopted sister. The film, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnston and based on the novel by E.L. James, will be Ora’s third acting role, following her appearances in the 2004 movie Spivs and The Fast and the Furious 6. The film is expected to premiere on Valentine’s Day 2015. [The Telegraph]