Warning: The FTC Has a Message for Fashion Bloggers

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(Image credit: @sincerelyjules)

Changes are coming: As Business of Fashion reports, the Federal Trade Commission is cracking down on potentially deceptive influencer posts. "We've been interested in deceptive endorsements for decades and this is a new way in which they are appearing," Michael Ostheimer, a deputy in the FTC's Ad Practices Division, told BoF. "We believe consumers put stock in endorsements and we want to make sure they are not being deceived." The FTC says that any free products received must be disclosed, and popular hashtags like #ad and #sp may not be enough. "If consumers don't read the words, then there is no effective disclosure," Ostheimer told BoF. To ensure regulations are being met, the FTC will be holding advertisers responsible for compliance. Only time will tell exactly how this will change the fashion blogging scene. [Business of Fashion]

Major sample sale news: Los Angeles accessories designer Janessa Leone—known for her celebrity-adored wide-brim hats—is hosting a sample sale in Culver City from August 12 to August 14. With prices slashed up to a whopping 90%, you're sure to find something amazing. Find out more information on the brand's Instagram. [Janessa Leone]

Ready for fall: September is just around the corner—which means you need some new ankle boots in your life. Brazilian brand Melissa has teamed up with Jason Wu on a line of sleek waterproof rain boots that are calling your name. Shop the new ankle boots online! [Melissa and Jason Wu]

New sunnies: If your collection of sunglasses could use a refresh, Opening Ceremony has you covered. The retailer collaborated with Aussie brand Local Supply on a line of limited-edition, colorful sunglasses. Shop the collaboration online! [Opening Ceremony]

Erin Fitzpatrick
Senior News Editor

Erin got her start as a Who What Wear intern over 12 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of senior news editor (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.