These are the stories making headlines in fashion on Friday.The Estée Lauder Cos. and Puig End Merger TalksThe Estée Lauder Companies and Puig confirmed they were in discussions regarding a potential merger, but they have now terminated thoe talks. “Today, we are reiterating our confidence in the power of our incredible brands, our talented teams and our strength as a standalone company,” Stéphane de La Faverie, president and CEO of The Estée Lauder Cos., said in a statement. {The Estée Lauder Cos.}War in Iran Is Straining Beauty Indies and ConglomeratesThe war in Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have caused shipping delays as well as rising freight, fuel and oil costs. This is inflating the cost of everything from plastic pumps to ingredient sourcing for both independent beauty brands and conglomerates. For example, Korean skin-care brand Then I Met You has had to push back its launch timelines and product seeding efforts, while E.l.f. Beauty is projecting a $15 million to $20 million hit from surging freight and oil prices. {Beauty Independent}Alphalyr Wins 2026 ANDAM Innovation AwardParis-based data analytics company Alphalyr won the 2026 ANDAM Innovation Award. Alphalyr uses AI to help the fashion industry produce right, sell better, waste less and understand consumers’ complete journey. Its clients include Ami Paris, Balmain, Galeries Lafayette and the SMCP group. The company was awarded a grant of €100,000 and access to ANDAM’s networking opportunities. {WWD/paywalled}Missoni Group Finalizes Ownership RestructureItalian equity firm FSI will become the controlling shareholder of the Missoni Group as the Missoni family…
