Mental health issues be damned, he took Coach from a small leather goods business to billions.

ACCIDENTAL FASHIONISTA

ABOUT

The untold story of Lew Frankfort, whose innovative leadership at Coach revolutionized the fashion industry by merging creativity with business savvy, magic with logic, to redefine accessible luxury for a global audience.

Accidental Fashionista delves into the remarkable journey of Lew Frankfort, the visionary who transformed Coach from a modest leather goods manufacturer into a global fashion powerhouse. This documentary not only chronicles Frankfort's personal and professional evolution but also offers a comprehensive exploration of the business dynamics within the fashion industry. Through candid interviews, archival footage, and expert commentary, viewers gain insight into the strategic innovations and market maneuvers that propelled Coach to the forefront of accessible luxury, reshaping consumer perceptions and industry standards.

The film goes beyond the aesthetics of fashion, providing an in-depth analysis of the business acumen behind Coach's success. It examines key business strategies such as brand positioning, market expansion, and operational scaling, highlighting how these elements intersect with creative vision to drive growth and sustainability in the fashion world. By showcasing Frankfort's leadership amidst personal challenges and industry shifts, Accidental Fashionista serves as a compelling narrative on the intricate balance between creativity and commerce.

THREADS

Evolution of the fashion industry: Traces the shift from exclusive luxury to accessible branding, the rise of global consumer markets, and the increasing fusion of creativity with corporate strategy in an era of fast fashion and digital transformation.

Humanizing Leadership: The importance of empathy, mental health, and authenticity in leadership, as well as the silent struggles of fear of failure and imposter syndrome that drive and challenge even the most successful visionaries.

Cultural Impact: The intersection of fashion, consumer culture, and personal identity.

Personal Development and Mental Health Experts

INTERVIEWEES

Family and Personal Circle

  • Lew Frankfort - To provide firsthand insights into his journey, challenges, and achievements.

  • Bobbie Frankfort - His wife, to share personal anecdotes and the impact of his career on family life.

  • Close Friends and Family Members - For personal stories and reflections on Lew's character and personal journey.

  • Psychologists and Mental Health Professionals - To discuss the impact of high-pressure careers on mental health.

  • Cancer Specialists - To provide context on the challenges Frankfort faced and overcame.

Industry Experts and Historians

  • Fashion Historians - To provide context on Coach's impact on the fashion industry.

  • Retail Analysts - To discuss Coach’s market strategies and business evolution.

  • Journalists and Authors - Those who have covered Coach and the luxury goods market extensively.

Coach and Industry Colleagues

  • Bonnie Cashin (through archival footage or historical references) - The designer who significantly influenced Coach's early design philosophy.

  • Reed Krakoff Former Creative Director, to discuss the brand's transformation and design evolution.

  • Victor Luis Former CEO of Coach, to provide insights into the brand's strategy and growth.

  • Stuart Vevers Current Creative Director, for perspectives on maintaining and evolving the Coach legacy.

  • Former and Current Employees of Coach For various perspectives on working under Frankfort's leadership and the company's culture.

Business and Leadership Figures

  • Mentors and Early Career Colleagues - Those who worked with Frankfort during his time in public service.

  • Former Executives from Sara Lee - To discuss the acquisition and its impact on Coach.

  • Business Leaders from Other Luxury Brands - For comparative insights into the luxury market.

Cultural and Social Influencers

  • Fashion Influencers and Bloggers - To discuss Coach's cultural impact and ongoing relevance.

  • Loyal Coach Customers - To share personal stories and what Coach means to them.

  • Influential Personalities in the Fashion Industry - To highlight Coach's place in the broader fashion landscape.