Fashion’s Moda Operandi moves in on beauty, appoints Harper’s Bazaar Beauty Director

With Jessica Matlin at the helm, co-founder Lauren Santo Domingo said the move into beauty was Moda’s ‘next logical step’

Moda Operandi allows customers to buy looks fresh off the runway

Fashion retailer Moda Operandi is backing a future with beauty.

The luxury e-tailer, which allows customers to buy looks fresh off the runway, has confirmed it will now stock a selection of cosmetic brands and has appointed its first beauty chief.

Jessica Matlin, a well known figure in the circuit, having served as Beauty and Health Director at Teen Vogue and Deputy Beauty Editor at Cosmopolitan, and most recently as Beauty Director of Harper’s Bazaar, will take up the challenge of launching the business into beauty.

She is also the co-founder and host of her own podcast, Fat Mascara, which has recorded more than 400 episodes.

“I am excited to be leading this category launch, embracing a unique lens on luxury beauty with a thoughtful mix of content and commerce centred around exclusive access, elevated editorial, and brand discovery,” said Matlin.

As part of her new role, she will be responsible for developing Moda Operandi’s market strategy, including brand curation and establishing the business’ unique offering.

Jessica Matlin

“Beauty is the logical next step for Moda,” said co-founder and Chief Brand Officer Lauren Santo Domingo.

“Our customer comes to us for our curated point of view on personal style across fashion, fine jewellery and home.

“With the launch of this category, Moda will become a complete lifestyle destination.”

Moda Operandi’s list of designers spans 675 names from Gucci to Hermes Vintage and Versace.

On Matlin’s appointment, Santo Domingo added: “We’re excited to work with Jessica Matlin, a true beauty innovator respected for her authoritative voice and sharp perspective.”

Back in 2020, Moda Operandi raised US$100m in new capital.

Led by existing investors New Enterprise Associates and Apax Digital Fund, the business said it would use the proceeds to fund investment in its core client experience, shopping model and technology systems.

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