Even in a retail era where every year is an unprecedented year, 2025 is set to be remembered by insiders who were challenged every step of the way. It was the year tariffs rocked supply chains and pricing structures, AI became a make-or-break challenge, luxury lost its bulletproof status, and consumer confidence in the economy tanked, among other headwinds. While many brands and retailers pegged mere survival as a win, others managed to strike a chord with consumers, innovate or shake up operations to the benefit of their business.
At the center of those success stories is the 2025 Glossy 50. In our ninth annual list, we spotlight the doers, disruptors, “scene-stealers” and steadfast leaders who reshaped how we shop, what brands we support, and how we define fashion and beauty, against all odds.
The executives fast-tracking great growth.
Based on big growth or expansion, it was their year.
The insiders driving big comebacks.
They designed the look, or vibe, of the moment.
They made smart investments with big growth potential.
They leveraged science or technology to gain an edge and prove new concepts.
They led their companies to industry domination.
The marketers who cut through the noise.
The brains behind the year’s buzzy brands and viral products.
They moved first or wrote a new playbook for their respective industries.
