"So, what you mean is that I should be your stylist and subtly integrate my clothing into your daily outfits, thereby naturally conveying a certain image?"
"Bingo."
"So, compared to direct advertising, this kind of subtle influence can change people's impressions of fashion on a much wider and deeper level."
"Exactly."
"In other words, being a brand ambassador builds a brand image; but if the brand assists you by embedding itself into your image and lifestyle, it shapes your personal image."
This time, Anson didn't give a definite answer—
As expected, Eddie was smart enough to grasp the essence of the matter right away.
In the former scenario, Anson depends on Dior, appearing as their spokesperson. In the latter, Dior and countless other brands depend on Anson, relying on his image and taste.
At its core, this is a reversal of control.
Although Anson painted a dazzling picture, quietly shifting the focus, Eddie still caught the key point.
Finally, the conversation was back on track.
However, Eddie had already understood the scenario that Anson had laid out.
Eddie looked at Anson, speechless. "You sound like a con artist."
"Eddie, don't you have any confidence?" Anson countered.
Eddie remained calm. "Isn't that exactly what you are?"
Anson nodded. "True. But at the same time, if I successfully establish my personal brand image, then Dior and I can both benefit more from our collaboration. You wouldn't even need to pay me an endorsement fee to reap the rewards. In the long run, this is a win-win situation for us."
Indeed, even if Anson and Eddie's friendship could withstand this test, Dior was a large brand, a major company. They couldn't trust such a partnership based on mere words. They needed a contract in black and white; they needed to measure both risks and benefits. Mere promises wouldn't cut it.
"Haha." Anson burst out laughing. "Hahaha."
Eddie thought for a moment. "You just mentioned styling. What's that all about?"
Eddie was momentarily at a loss for words.
Eddie was stunned—
After a slight pause, Anson smiled. "Eddie, the way you put it, I sound like the bad guy."
"Haha." Anson laughed out loud. "Eddie, you can also look at it from my perspective."
Anson continued, "You should believe in your talent, and you should also believe in our friendship."
But Eddie wasn't buying it. "Instead, you're able to create your own brand image. In the long run, that's where the real benefit lies."
"If you choose to give up, not only will you have no income, but you'll also have to bear the costs and the risk of the plan failing."
So, Anson was very frank.
This is the truth.
His mind racing, Eddie stared at Anson. "But the premise is that once your brand image is established, you'll still choose us, even without a contractual obligation. By that point, we have no leverage. We might even have to beg you to wear our designs."
However, Anson didn't think he could fool Dior. He wasn't the only smart one.
"If I choose to renew my contract with Dior, I can earn endorsement fees and enjoy full sponsorship from Dior, increasing my exposure."
Although Edgar thought this was an impossible plan and Anson knew the idea was a bit crazy, they had still reached this point.
Anson didn't let the joy get to his head; he seamlessly got to the point. "Simply put, it's Anna Wintour's job."
Eddie: ...
His jaw dropped slightly, clearly taken aback by Anson's words.
A trace of a smile appeared in Anson's eyes. "The difference is that Anna Wintour leads mainstream fashion, while I am entirely focused on myself, creating my own brand, my own style, my own image."
"So, all you need to do is put together different looks for different occasions and interpret a fashion image."
"Of course, you can choose Dior's clothing, but at the same time, you need to explore other possibilities, choose other brands, or different styles."
To Eddie's ears, the message was crystal clear: this is Anna Wintour's job.
What seemed insignificant suddenly became high and mighty.
But Eddie shook his head gently. "You definitely can't let Anna know you described her job this way, or she'll blacklist you entirely."
Anson laughed heartily. "Haha."
Then Eddie continued, "If I take on this job, does that mean I have the final say? For example, if I want you to wear Dior at the 'Catch Me If You Can' premiere instead of another suit that fits the character's vibe better?"
"Of course." Anson didn't hesitate.
Eddie, "And if I want you to ensure that at least 30% of your outfits during this promotional period come from Dior, that's not a problem?"
Anson chuckled softly. "You're being kind. I thought you'd demand 50%."
Eddie's expression remained blank. "So, are you saying I can ask for 50%?"
Anson raised his hands in surrender. "30%, no problem."
Eddie lifted his chin slightly, looking enlightened. He didn't rush to continue but let his thoughts surge in the air. There was no sign of panic on Anson's face, which made a slight smile appear in Eddie's eyes.
"Anson, I can't take this job."
Anson was stunned—
Progress was positive and smooth; how did things take a sudden 180-degree turn?
Even Anson was caught off guard.
Seeing Anson's unhidden surprise, that previously confident and self-assured look cracked. A smile crept into Eddie's eyes, but his character and upbringing kept him from mocking Anson. Instead, he calmly explained.
"Because of a conflict of interest."
"Anson, I initially thought the point was to shape your image, and to do so, we'd have to sacrifice Dior's interests. You're asking me to do something terrible."
"But now it seems the decision is in my hands. I can decide your look for crucial moments, like premieres, the Golden Globes, and the Oscars. If I want, I can have you wear Dior for all major occasions, still using you to benefit Dior."
If Eddie could see it, how could Anson not?
Anson spread his hands, looking completely open. "Eddie, we're friends. I don't intend to embarrass you at Dior, nor do I plan to make you betray Dior. See, I'm still a loyal friend."
Pfft.
Eddie chuckled softly but quickly regained his composure.
"But I can't."
"I represent Dior, so I must consider Dior's interests. But I'm also your friend, and I can't betray your trust. If I take this job, I'll need to sincerely create a fashion image for you."
"But."
"What if Dior's CEO pressures me? What if they say you must wear Dior at the Oscars, or they'll fire me?"
Anson didn't hesitate. "Then I'll wear Dior. I trust your design."
Eddie, "I also believe in my talent. My clothes won't make you look bad at the Oscars. But I can't use this as leverage against our friendship, nor can I lack professional ethics by being biased toward my designs. I can't do it."
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