The fashion landscape is undergoing a significant shift with The Only Agency, a leading styling powerhouse under the guidance of Kent Belden, completing a pivotal acquisition of The Daily Front Row, a distinguished publication celebrated for its coverage of the fashion world. This strategic move unites two influential forces, aiming to amplify their reach and impact. The integration promises a broader global footprint, an increase in exclusive events, and the introduction of specialized content editions, with Eddie Roche stepping into the role of Editor-in-Chief. This represents a notable consolidation within the industry, blending top-tier talent representation with respected editorial insight to foster enhanced influence.
Kent Belden, the visionary behind The Only Agency, brings a diverse background encompassing the styling domains of New York and Los Angeles, covering wardrobe, hair, and makeup. His decision to acquire The Daily Front Row stemmed from his admiration for its distinctive editorial perspective and enduring heritage, which has cultivated a dedicated following within the fashion community. He recognized the publication's esteemed brand and its unique ability to chronicle the industry's key figures, transforming them into veritable icons.
Established in 2002 by IMG, now a part of WME, The Daily Front Row began its journey as a physical newspaper distributed during New York Fashion Week. It quickly became an essential resource, offering glossy, insider accounts and industry gossip that captivated editors and buyers during the often-protracted intervals between runway presentations. Over time, it evolved into a rare and influential fashion media outlet, treating editors, influencers, and industry power players with the same reverence usually reserved for celebrities. The publication meticulously tracked their activities alongside comprehensive runway critiques, beauty features, and exclusive interviews with designers. Its digital platform, DailyFrontRow.com, now attracts hundreds of thousands of international visitors daily, eager for the latest in fashion news.
The Only Agency, launched by Belden in 2014, boasts an impressive roster of leading stylists for wardrobe, hair, and makeup, as well as creative directors and photographers. This esteemed group includes renowned celebrity stylists such as Penny Lovell, who styles Rose Byrne, Andrew Gelwicks, known for working with Amy Madigan, and Dani Michelle, whose clients include Daisy Edgar-Jones and Kendall Jenner.
The discussions leading to this acquisition began in August between Belden and Eddie Roche, then editorial director of The Daily. Roche expressed his enthusiasm, stating that the partnership felt like a perfect synergy, building on their long-standing professional relationship. He noted that The Daily had been seeking a suitable new owner since the departure of former editor Brandusa Niro. Under the new ownership, The Daily will maintain its core identity while embarking on an expansion phase. Roche conveyed his immense satisfaction with the team at The Only Agency and announced plans for The Daily's relocation to premises near their downtown offices in the near future.
As a result of the acquisition, Eddie Roche has officially assumed the title of Editor-in-Chief. The brand is also well-known for its high-profile Fashion Media Awards, held annually in New York every September, and the Daily Front Row Fashion L.A. Awards in April. These prestigious events have consistently attracted celebrated honorees and attendees, including fashion luminaries such as Bob Mackie, acclaimed actress Jennifer Garner, global music icon Lady Gaga, rising artist Chappell Roan, and legendary designer Betsey Johnson.
Roche anticipates substantial growth for the brand, with plans for an expanded presence, more events, increased international outreach, and the introduction of additional European and special editions. Belden echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the immense potential for development and highlighting the truly unique and powerful collaboration that this acquisition represents. The merger is poised to create a dynamic new chapter for both entities, driving innovation and expanding their influence across the global fashion industry.
