World Fashion Business News

Vera Wang’s new Princess line for Kohl's

2011-12-15T05:09:00.000-08:00

Kohl's Corporation and Vera Wang Group announced the launch of Princess Vera Wang, a junior's contemporary, premium lifestyle collection available exclusively in Kohl's stores nationwide and Kohls's website beginning August 2012.

Licensed by a subsidiary of Vera Wang Group to Kohl's under a long-term agreement, Kohl's will be the exclusive provider and marketer in the United States of all Princess Vera Wang merchandise. For Kohl's, growing its partnership with Vera Wang demonstrates the strength of its exclusive and private brand strategy, which accounted for 52 percent of sales in the third quarter of 2011, up significantly from 2010.

"We are pleased to announce the launch of Princess Vera Wang, which builds on our existing partnership with Vera Wang, one of the world's most credible and respected designers," said Kevin Mansell, Kohl's chairman, president and CEO.

"When we first partnered with Vera Wang in 2007 to launch Simply Vera Vera Wang, there was immediate acceptance and strong response from our contemporary customer. We are confident bringing this level of fashion and quality to our junior's business allows us to increase the value proposition to our younger shoppers and delivers on our commitment to offer world-class brands in each category."

Kohl's first partnered with Vera Wang in 2007 for the launch of Simply Vera Vera Wang, a premium lifestyle collection. Since launch, Simply Vera Vera Wang has been the leading exclusive brand in the women's contemporary category and due to strong customer response, has experienced continued growth. Most recently, Kohl's announced Simply Vera Vera Wang will expand into cosmetics and bridal jewelry beginning in Spring 2012.

Read More at Vera Wang’s new Princess line for Kohl's @ Fibre2fashion

Kay Celine participates in Divine Design

2011-12-14T05:06:00.000-08:00

Kay Celine has made a generous contribution of merchandise that sold at last weekend’s Divine Design B2B marketplace. It is L.A.’s premier event for Fashion and Home. All proceeds went to help Project Angel Food, Los Angeles’ only free meal delivery service for people with HIV/AIDs, cancer, and other life-threatening diseases.

Along with Divine Design, Kay Celine also participated in November's Fashion with Compassion, a charity event hosted by Los Angeles' Stephen S. Wise Temple and Milken Community High School. Proceeds benefited the Save a Child's Heart, and internationally acclaimed humanitarian project whose mission promotes the improvement of quality of cardiac care for young patients.

On the fashion side of things, Kay Celine designer, Kay Kamran has finished her 2012 Spring/Summer line. Kay has long been an aficionado of “desk to dinner”, and this collection certainly follows that ideal. It has Kay's signature beaded chiffon tunics, and fabulous crochet lace pieces in amazing colors, such as aqua, coral, and clover. For that Boho chic look, Cotton Voile in assorted colors that are perfect for Summer.

Read more about Kay Celine participates in Divine Design @ Fibre2fashion

Vittorio Missoni’s Summer 2012 Collection

2011-12-13T05:15:00.000-08:00

VOGUE magazine hosted the annual “Evenings in Vogue” event at the picturesque Miami estate of Loren and JR Ridinger on Saturday, December 3. Loren Ridinger, SVP of SHOP.COM and Jeffrey Kalinsky (Owner of Jeffrey and EVP Designer Merchandising, Nordstrom) hosted over 600 guests in the lavish pool garden on the Ridinger property.

Special guests Angela and Vittorio Missoni celebrated Missoni’s Summer 2012 Collection presented by Nordstrom. The exclusive preview was showcased in a 33-look fashion show poolside with live DJ Frank Delour. Special guests enjoyed VIP car service, courtesy of Lexus. Guests sipped on cocktails compliments of Grey Goose, while they mingled amongst, friends, family, celebrities and influencers.

“It is always amazing working with Vogue every year for one of the most incredible evenings of Art Basel”, said Loren Ridinger. “Working with Angela and Vittorio, legends of Missoni, just helped make it even more spectacular! Always my favorite event of the year.”

Lala Anthony, Paris Hilton & Nicky Hilton, Gabrielle Union, Chris & Adrienne Bosh, Rocsi Diaz, Derek Blasberg, Lily Donaldson, Ilia Calderon, Univision President Cesar Conde, hotelier Andres Balazs, Dennis Rodman and R&B singer Melanie Fiona are several of those who came out to take in the show and celebrate their friend and the evenings host, Vogue 100 honoree, Loren Ridinger.

Read More about Vittorio Missoni’s Summer 2012 Collection @ Fibre2fashion

Jilly Johnson dons Reger by Janet Reger Christmas campaign

2011-12-08T02:12:00.000-08:00

Retailer releases Christmas lingeries images featuring model in 50’s Debenhams announced Jilly Johnson, 58, as the face of the Reger by Janet Reger Christmas campaign.

It was déjà-vu for Jilly, who was the first ever model cast by the Janet Reger label, way back in the eighties. Over 30 years on, Jilly still looks fabulous.

Debenhams has been pioneering diversity on the high street for the past couple of years, with campaigns which saw disabled fashion models used in national window campaigns, a ban on airbrushing in photography and the use of older models in nationwide marketing activity.

Using Jilly in the Christmas campaign follows in the path of this diversity trail, which most recently saw the launch of ‘The Style List’- an aspirational photography campaign featuring women in their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s.

The Style List ran in stores in autumn 2010 and received an astounding reaction from customers and press, who were delighted to see beautiful, stylish women, whom they could relate to, representing them in photographic materials.

Michelle Dowdall, spokesperson for Debenhams commented: “We are committed to using a variety of models, which are a variety of shapes, sizes and ages in our photography.

“Our customers are buying into a lifestyle which they feel is representative of themselves, their own tastes and of similar ages.”

Kristen Stewart in Monique Lhuillier on ‘Tonight’

2011-12-06T04:56:00.000-08:00

Actress Kristen Stewart is on a publicity tour to promote the film The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Pt. 1 just, which opened in the U.S. on November 18, 2011. Recently, she was spotted rocking a black and blue strapless dress from Los Angeles-based fashion designer Monique Lhuillier on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno. The body conscious number highlights one of fall’s biggest trends: color blocking.

This isn’t the first time that Stewart has worn a Lhuillier design. At the 2010 Academy Awards she donned a custom made strapless gown in midnight blue silk satin organza gown. The dress featured a beautifully sculpted bodice and fitted asymmetrical draped trumpet skirt.

Lhuillier, who majored in fashion design at FIDM, launched her self-titled company in 1996, with a bridal collection. After becoming a top American wedding dress designer, Lhuillier added ready-to-wear and eveningwear in 2001. She has attracted fans such as Kristen Stewart, Drew Barrymore, Hilary Swank, and Katie Holmes. There are Monique Lhuillier salons in Beverly Hills and Minneapolis.

“I didn’t know how to cute and sew before I came to FIDM,” Lhuillier explains. “When I was a student I was full of dreams and knew I loved clothing, but I was also scared. I was fortunate that I could start my own line and risk it all.” In addition to her success in fashion, Lhuillier designs a tabletop collection for Royal Doulton, stationery and fine paper, and a bed, bath, and home collection.

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show: 10 Years of 'Fantasy Bras

2011-11-30T05:05:00.000-08:00

Australian model Miranda Kerr donned the Fantasy Treasure Bra - worth $2.5 million - for the event. The aqua push-up bra reportedly features nearly 3,400 hand-set precious gems, including white and yellow diamonds, pearls, citrines and aquamarines, all set in white and yellow gold.

Adriana Lima, Doutzen Kroes, Chanel Iman and Candice Swanepoel are among the other models featured in the show, wearing bras and panties accessorized with lace-up stilettos, tutus, flamenco skirts and leg warmers.

The lingeries isn't the only reason to tune in - there are also performances from Kanye West, Nicki Minaj and Maroon 5. Jay-Z also made a surprise appearance, performing a song with West from their "Watch the Throne" album.

Last year, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show had the most viewers in its timeslot: about 9 million in the U.S., according to Nielsen. The show airs in more than 90 countries.

View more Photos of Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2011:Jay-Z Kanye West, Maroon 5, Nicki Minaj Photos

2011-11-29T22:32:00.000-08:00

NEW YORK - The first thing you need to know about successful insanity Victoria Secret fashion show is that it is a fashion show at all. There is nothing fashionable about it. Girls are not angry or pout off the runway, high fashion models. These creatures dream come smile. And a nod, wave, dance and blow kisses while wearing next-to-no underwear. VS models are impossible leggy, rail-thin yet voluptuous curves with pretty faces and big smiles, wide. All senior and made taller by 8-inch heels. (Seriously, and it made me extremely nervous and extremely respectful of them -. if none of them even staggered)

For women, the show is a powerful motivator to swear solids. For men, well, they can only dream of. Not sure of the demographics, but last year the fair attracted nearly 9 million viewers in the United States (and which will air in about 100 countries), and I suppose most are men ogling.

The 2011 show, which airs at 9 pm Tuesday on WBBM-Channel 2, was recorded in early November at the Lexington Avenue Armory in New York before a capacity crowd of about 2,000 people. The show is an annual heat bill there are men who were out to offer hundreds of dollars for a pink pass.

It took about 30 minutes on the treadmill, but opted to an hour for as long as you see it, and there are many things to see, and a group of lingeries models with wings: A smiling Kanye West performed at a stunned crowd, then carries out its partner Jay-Z tour the crowd Giddi and a standing ovation throughout the song. Maroon 5 arrives on stage and in a happy coincidence, vocalist Adam Levine happens to be dating Russian model Anne Vyalitsyna, who sings "moves like Jagger" and plants a kiss on her as it slides down the track. Nicki Minaj rap goddess, adorned with an explosion of confetti dress and a look of annoyance, also performed.

Of special interest is Erin Heatherton own Skokie, 22, an angel of true supermodel who won their wings at the fair last year. "It's the most exciting day of the year for me," he said, adding that his parents had flown to see the show.

Of the 38 angels that walked, the best known are those of Chanel Iman, Miranda Kerr (who had the honor of carrying the $ 2.5 million "Fantasy Treasure bra", and her husband, actor Orlando Bloom, sat in the front row and stood up every time I walked down the runway), Alessandra Ambrosio, Adriana Lima, Lily Aldridge and Lindsey Ellingson.

It gets bigger every year, and 2011 was no exception. Enjoy this photo gallery of photos from the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York City, featuring performances by Jay-Z and Kanye West, Maroon 5, Nicki Minaj and more.

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Photos Preview

2011-11-28T00:35:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous Fashion models and a $2.5 million bra strut their stuff in the annual special, "The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show," airing at 9 p.m. Nov. 29 on CBS. And I've got photos to get you excited for it! (Take that, @RedEyeSportsGuy and your Hot Cheerleaders!) Nicki Minaj, Kanye West, Jay-Z and Maroon 5 entertain, as do, I suppose, supermodels Miranda Kerr (who gets to wear the Fantasy Treasure bra), Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Doutzen Kroes, Candice Swanepoel, Erin Heatherton, Lily Aldridge and Lindsay Ellingson.

Curt Wagner,

Adriana Lima

Victoria's Secret Supermodels

Adriana Lima

Alessandra Ambrosio

Behati Prinsloo

Candice Swanepoel

Chanel Iman

Doutzen Kroes

Erin Heatherton

Kanye West and Jay-Z

Maroon 5

Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj

Miranda Kerr

Candice Swanepoel

Lindsay Ellingson

Lily Aldridge

Erin Heatherton

Doutzen Kroes

Alessandra Ambrosio

Victoria's Secret Supermodels

Source: redeyechicago

George at Asda launches GFW designer collection

2011-11-25T04:46:00.000-08:00

Rory Longdon, winner of the prestigious George Gold Award at Graduate Fashion week in June 2011, sees the full fruit of his hard work as the launch of his first high street collection goes on sale at George at Asda.

Rory won the opportunity to create a capsule Christmas knitwear collection for George alongside a £20,000 cash prize, a 4 week paid placement at George and mentoring sessions from Fashion Brand Director Fiona Lambert. Rory's designs have now come to life in an exclusive, limited, knitwear collection inspired by his winning catwalk designs.

"It's a great feeling to have launched a collection for such a large supermarket, but very surreal too. It's hard to believe people will be buying pieces with my name on them every day. It'll be a weird but amazing feeling to see someone wearing my designs on the street," he said.

With Rory's collection launch comes the announcement that George at Asda will be the title sponsor of Graduate Fashion Week 2012. This will be the second year running the brand supports the event, and will be continuing its commitment to provide work experience placements for new graduates who impress at the event.

George at Asda, Brand Director, Fiona Lambert commented: "It has been fantastic to work with Rory and see his designs come to life in front of our very eyes. Rory's collection presents the opportunity to reach out to an edgier and high-fashion led consumer as well as offering something new and exciting to our loyal George shoppers.

The range promises cutting edge designs with both the wearability and affordability factors which George and Rory are extremely proud of. George strives to nurture and develop young talent across the fashion industry and so we are delighted to launch the beginning of a very promising design career for Rory Longdon as well as to announce our support for the second year by remaining the title sponsor of Graduate Fashion Week 2012."

Rory, 23 from West Hallam, has a wealth of background experience as a Fashion Knitwear Design and Knitted Textiles graduate from Nottingham Trent University, and is now enjoying working at Italian fashion house Max Mara before he embarks on an MA next year.

George at Asda launches GFW designer collection @ Fibre2fashion

IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel Holiday Collection

2011-11-23T05:02:00.000-08:00

Award-winning American Fashion designer label IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel, unveils The Holiday Collection; an opulent collection of romantic pieces inspired by Parisian feminine charm and a mélange of glamorous 60’s and 70’s elements.

Versatile, flirtatious and feminine gown, cocktail dresses, day-to-evening separates, and complementing accessories make for a chic and stylish wardrobe that will turn the holidays to a wondrous love affair. Designed and made in the San Francisco Bay Area, The Holiday Collection is now available in sizes 12-32 at website.

“During the creation of this collection, I envisioned a powerful, sensuous and beautiful woman evoking the womanly charm and luxurious beauty of decades gone by. This collection captures what it means to be a confident and sensual contemporary woman in love with a time when beauty was conveyed with the swivel of a hip and the sparkle of the eyes creating a luxurious being in one’s own femininity,” said Yuliya Raquel, Founder, Designer and Creative Director.

The Holiday Collection carries Raquel’s signature silhouettes that drape over the body to create flattering curves and smooth body contours. Princess seams and attention to balanced proportions create harmonious looks especially flattering to the plus-size silhouette.

Read More about IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel Holiday Collection @ Fibre2fashion

Ilaria Venturini Fendi receives WFDP award from Franca Sozzani

2011-11-21T04:52:00.000-08:00

Ilaria Venturini Fendi was awarded the first Grand Prize by the World Fashion Development Program (WFDP), during a gala evening that took place in Seoul, South Korea, on November 14, hosted in part by the City of Seoul. Ilaria received the award by the hands of Franca Sozzani, editor-in-chief of Vogue Italia and recently appointed Goodwill Ambassador for Fashion4Development.

The prizes distinguish those innovators on all levels of the fashion industry who have made efforts to make the business more humane. The categories include, Fashion for Humanity, Fashion Design, and Green Fashion, among others.

Venturini Fendi, founder and fashion designers of Carmina Campus that she started in 2006, was granted the prize for ethical Fashion Design, which recognizes the person who made the most notable effort to create sustainable modern fashion. Venturini Fendi uses the know-how she acquired while working for her family's illustrious fashion house for her own creative project combining sustainability, ethical production and avant-garde design.

The brand explores innovative ways to reuse materials, to save from waste, to give back to the community and to create unique items ranging from handbags to home furniture. Later, thanks to her partnership with the International Trade Centre -- a UN and WTO agency, and more specifically the ITC Poor Communities and Trade Programme which supports marginalized communities of micro-producers in developing countries, she moved to work in Kenya and Uganda to produce semi-finished items.

Swarovski Elements continues to spark for Victoria's Secret ‎

2011-11-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

For the ninth dazzling year, SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, the premium brand for the finest crystal elements manufactured by Swarovski, and Victoria’s Secret, the company with a passion for fabulous lingeries, have partnered on the show stopping Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

The collaboration between the two global brands is proof that when it comes to Swarovski, there is virtually no limit to creative possibilities. This year, two million SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS embellished one-of-a-kind creations for The Victoria’s Secret Fashion show including iconic Angel wings, exquisite custom-made lingerie, designer couture pieces, shoes and even stockings.

SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS was seen on six key looks from designer Jenny Manik Mercian, who created an awe-inspiring masterpiece as well as glistening footwear by Giuseppe Zanotti, encrusted with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, creating head-to-toe looks.

Reinhard Mackinger, executive vice president for Swarovski North America is also inspired by the collaboration. “Both brands stand for creativity, inspiration, and complement each other in the creation of new products as well as lend an aspirational appeal to the customer. We are thrilled to continue expanding our collaboration to reach not only the Fashion Show viewer but the consumer as well.”

Another stunning display of creativity and craftsmanship was evident in the matador inspired piece, as seen on model Bregke Heinen. Also created by Manik Mercian, the costume was part of the Passion theme.

A key highlight of the show included the stunning Passion Play Fan Wings by Jenny Manik Mercian made over five months with approximately 105,000 SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS and weighing 22 pounds. The 23 carat gold-plated antique copper Passion Play Fan Wings were inspired by a jewel box of luxurious, opulent gem tones making each wing distinctive and dramatic on its own.

Stunning combinations of poppy oranges and reds mixed with fuchsias, vibrant turquoise, royal blue and chartreuse are contrasted with shocking yellows and dazzling hues of metallic gold. Romance, desire and sensuality are captured in the luxurious detail of lace, brocades, embroidery and beading reminiscent of Haute Couture.

Caroline Flack is face of Apricot’s denim range

2011-11-11T04:51:00.000-08:00

British TV presenter Caroline Louise Flack, who has co-presented the eighth series of ‘The Xtra Factor’, is the face of Apricot’s new Transformer range of denim.

Caroline is best known for presenting ‘I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Now!’ from 2008 to 2010.
Apricot’s new innovative range of jeans comes in Skinny, Bootcut and Skinny Flare styles, which are especially designed to flatter and flaunt natural curves of the legs. All styles are made from ultra-stretch fabrics that take the shape of the legs as soon as they are worn.
Each of the three styles is available in three fits – Peachy, Electric and Juicy – designed to suit different body shapes. Peachy Fit is low cut at the top, Electric Fit is still lower, while Juicy Fit has slightly higher cut.
These different styles and fits will help shoppers to ‘mix and match’ and find out the jeans that look good on them.

Read more about Caroline Flack is face of Apricot’s denim range @ Fibre2fashion

PUMA & Design Museum unveil new football kit designs

2011-11-08T05:13:00.000-08:00

Global sport Lifestyle Apparel brand PUMA has revealed an inspiring and contemporary collaboration, launching technical football kits for PUMA’s 10 partnered African National football teams. Each kit is designed by a renowned artist from the Creative African Network (CAN) – a PUMA platform connecting and promoting artists from and in Africa. This unique collaboration is complemented by a month-long exhibition at the Design Museum, London that showcases the artists’ design inspirations.

PUMA's unveiling at the Design Museum in London, brought together high profile football players and CAN artists from each of the 10 PUMA partnered teams, including Samuel Eto’o of Cameroon, John Mensah of Ghana and Yaya Touré of Ivory Coast. With the 2012 Orange Africa Cup of Nations fast approaching, the event was the perfect platform for PUMA to demonstrate how the brand has fused its work within sport and art, seamlessly bringing together two worlds that don’t often collide.

Central to the project is PUMA.Creative (a programme of PUMAVision), that brings together individual artists and organizations, and provides them with a platform for creative exchange and international exposure. Through PUMA.Creative’s CAN programme, artists were commissioned to design a football jersey Jacket inspired from the country’s heritage, culture and traditions. Ten artists worked with their home nation to create unique and inspiring designs for the official football kits.

“PUMA has been at the forefront of integrating the two disparate worlds of sport and art, and through a celebration of football, art, colour and culture, we have shown to the world how these two spheres can be uniquely combined,” comments Franz Koch, CEO of PUMA SE. “PUMA has a long standing history with Africa, and this event demonstrates how as a brand we continue to be fully committed to our relationship with the continent.”

Launch of new celebrity bikini brand ‘Vitamin A’

2011-11-07T05:01:00.000-08:00

Ocean Paradise, a specialist swimwear retailer in Singapore, will be launching a new celebrity bikini brand from Southern California, USA. Vitamin A is a brand that exudes chic simplicity that is perfect for the urban lifestyle apparel in Asia and has a range of fits that would allow ladies of all body shapes to look fabulous.

Ocean Paradise will launch a new bikini brand from USA that has inspired a cult-like following of Hollywood A-listers and international It girls. The label is often referred to as the Little Black Dress of swimwear for its chic and functional styles.

The Vitamin A Gold collection will be available at the Paragon and Tanglin Mall branches from 10 November 2011.

Laguna Beach local Amahlia Stevens has inspired a cult-like following of A-listers and bi-coastal beauties who are hooked on the designer’s effortlessly chic bikinis and coverups. Vitamin A fits like no other bikini on the market, and radiates natural sexiness like no other bikini on the beach. You have a recipe for Chic simplicity: a little bit 70’s, a little bit minimalist.

hat California ease and effortless sex appeal are in Stevens’ DNA. A graduate of Art Center College of Design, and veteran of the OC surf-skate industry, Stevens first began designing bikinis for herself in an old-school Laguna custom swim shop, then for friends, and now for a loyal base of jet-setting clientele.

What started as a desire to create the ultimate shape, her ubiquitous “California Cut,” has evolved into a full resort wardrobe of sexy separates that really fit, and laidback luxe, “après beach” pieces that really travel.

'Truth or Dare by Madonna' to target older audience

2011-11-04T06:13:00.000-07:00

MG Icon announced the launch of the "Truth or Dare by Madonna" brand. "Truth or Dare by Madonna" will be a global lifestyle apparel brand. The brand will initially launch with footwear, handbags, intimates, accessories and fragrance.

MG Icon will exclusively partner with Macy's for the initial launch in 2012 while launching simultaneously worldwide.

In 2013, the brand will be widely distributed at leading department stores in the United States.

Madonna stated, "Over the past several decades, I have been approached countless times to create my own brand. The timing is right and I have found great partners in Iconix who can help translate my vision to reality."

Madonna and Iconix develop second brand under The MG Icon partnership.

The Truth or Dare by Madonna brand is aimed at Madonna's core demo, women ages 27-50 who have a timeless style and an innate sex appeal. Truth or Dare by Madonna was created to showcase the dichotomy that is Madonna, both powerful icon and feminine beauty.

"The interest and excitement globally for brands developed by Madonna are significant," stated Neil Cole, CEO, Iconix Brand Group, Inc. "After the highly successful launch of the junior brand, Material Girl, we knew there would be a tremendous demand for a brand that Madonna herself is the face of and that truly captures her essence."

Fashion News- Black Girls In A White World

2011-11-03T18:24:00.000-07:00

It is always noteworthy when politics and fashion collide. In October, The New York Times ran an article entitled "Runways Fade to White". The article described the relative absence of Black models on the runways of the most recent Fashion Week.

As a follower of fashion and a Black woman, the article caught my attention.

I tend to live by the proposition that race is a significant characteristic, but should not govern our lives and or dictate our decisions. However, this year's Fashion Week has challenged those beliefs.

The New York Times article painted a picture of the whitening of the fashion world. According to the article, the number of Black women used in fashion shows has steadily decreased. Frequently, designers request the model's race in advance so that they can reject the Black models. When the agents try to pull a bait and switch, by withholding the model's race, the designers later complain. The designers reject the Black model and blame the agent by saying, "You didn't tell me that she was Black."

While I was unaware of the underlying details, my review of fashion magazines has revealed that Black models were suffering some challenges. I peruse my five subscriptions to fashion magazines religiously every month, under the belief that fashion is universal. Rather than bemoan the absence of Black women on the hundreds of pages, I have rejoiced when I see a Black face on one page.

I used to believe that I was progressive by not letting politics influence my purchasing decisions. Now, I realize that I was naive.

The Census results gave me an easy way to I rationalize the decisions of the fashion industry. Black people account for about 12% of the population so it would follow that we would not be on the majority of the covers of fashion magazines. However, the article indicates that deliberate discrimination and not statistics likely explains the absence of Black women from the covers.

By excluding Black models, the designers are communicating a powerful message. While we do not know what the message is, we do know that the message is not a good one. To suggest otherwise overlooks a basic fact. Fashion is about more than selling clothes, it is about selling an image of beauty. Whatever their motivation, it is clear that many designers do not envision Black models as portraying their image of beauty. Once I find out who the biggest offenders were, I doubt that I will be able to envision myself wearing their clothes...

A Brief Overview Of Fashion Industry Magazines

2011-11-03T18:22:00.001-07:00

Here is the list of all familiar fashion industry magazines around the world. This list comprises several types of business journals, magazines and periodicals. The information below also comprises brief overview, name of magazine etc.

The apparel strategist

This is the leading Canadian monthly magazine related to textile and fashion business. For the last eighteen yrs this journal is serving up the requirements of investors and professionals engaged in textile and apparel industry. This publication gives news reports about the latest trends, predictions on the subsequent development of industry, important statistics and graphical representations of textile and apparel industry trade cycles.

Images business of fashion

This popular business publication has all over million subscribers in mid east and Indian subcontinent. This publication emphasizes on retailing, marketing, branding and trading in apparel industry. Other vital topics covered in this publication are lifestyle, apparel, garments and awards related to beauty and fashion industry. This publication is printed every month. The publication is making a rule in United States and European markets.

Impressions

This publication is the web-based magazine issued thirteen times every yr. This publication is the most extraordinary source of info for technical and business information related to cosmetic business. This publication as well gives instructions about the package and some other things needed for operating the market digitally for adorned apparel such as screen-printing, embroidery, fancywork, digital adorning and heat-applied graphics.

Sportswear International

This magazine is the German publication, which is released six times a year, both in German and English language. This publication was launched in the yr 1975 and provides clear and effective info about sportswear, denims wear, outerwear, active wear, casual wear, latest menswear, modern dresses, footwear, young fashion designers, and fabric market. This publication reports on the latest brands, new trends and issues related to apparel industry. The extraordinary feature of their publication is their award-winning photography section and fashion shoot.

Fashion Market

This publication is the United States monthly magazine and one of the best-selling fashion industry magazines in US, which gives all the vital report about the fashion business. This publication generally provides the needs of corporate executives and women involved in fashion industry. It provides updated and latest news about fashion, style and businessmen.

Wearable business publication

This is the US based publication issued eleven times a year. This publication provides the needs of marketing agencies and promotional clothing products distributors. This publication caters the readers' new trends, latest news, commercializing and sales basics and tips about latest growths in accessories and apparel industry.

Glamour Magazine

This is a UK based magazine and top selling women's publication in Britain. It gives detailed info on beauty, style, and health. This publication as well features special section on horoscopes and contents on celebrities.

Pursuit

This is the most best-selling magazine in South Africa's fashion industry network. This publication is released onetime in every 2 months and is dedicated to textiles, apparel and some other related industries. This publication provides their readers with marketing techniques, new trends, interviews with a famous persons and reports.

Entertainment and the Fashion Industry

2011-11-03T18:21:00.000-07:00

The entertainment industry and the fashion world have been interlinked for hundreds, if not thousands of years. However, what probably started as getting dressed up for the theater has evolved into intertwined fortunes in which entertainment drives fashion, and fashion drives entertainment. Television shows, cinema and music aren't just outlets for creativity anymore, they have become outlets for fashion to such an extent that fashion, in some cases, has become the driving force behind the "creativity" of entertainment.

Obviously, one of the big stepping-stones in the evolution of this semi-symbiotic relationship was the advent of the star. Stepping out on the red carpet at award ceremonies, theater opening nights and film premiers in the latest couture dresses and tailor made designer suits meant that stars from all areas of the entertainment industry have become conduits for the delivery of the latest fashions to the mass media.

It would be a significant oversight to assume that this implies that stars and their latter day less than saints, celebrities, are merely manikins and models for the highest bidding design house, although this is partly the case. The reality is that the relationship is much more complex than this, depending on the star's or celebrity's relative worth. A-list stars and free-spirited celebrities might be in a position to choose their own fashion, directly influencing what is popular in high street stores and fashion catwalks.

Now, more so than ever before, stars and celebrities from the entertainment world are even going so far as to design their own clothing ranges, having an even more direct influence on fashion. Singers and actresses alike have their own clothing ranges, but less obvious areas like rap and rock music have also succumbed to the temptation of fashion design. Both 50 Cent and Liam Gallagher have clothing collections for sale at the moments and while they may not necessarily be all that good, they are obviously having some influence on the clothing choices of consumers.

However, fashion and entertainment have gone even further than talent interconnection, they have moved increasingly towards content interaction. America's Next Top Model, for example, is pretty much a direct collaboration between the television and fashion worlds to deliver entertainment-based content. The program makes would be fashion models stars and celebrities and the process of modeling into entertainment.

Another type of example of content interaction can be seen in Sex and the City, in which the characters' love, devotion and work for the fashion industry is one of the main focal points for the series and film plots. The stars of the show and now movies have become synonymous with the fashion world, promoting their own particular fashion tastes as well as acting as endorsements for interest in the fashion world in general. Plenty of other shows and films have followed suit with this interconnection, including Ugly Betty and The Devil Wears Prada, which was originally a book.

Even the lives of famous figures from the fashion industry are being used as inspiration for creative content like films, books and television shows. The life of Coco Chanel, for example, has now been transformed into a number of major motion pictures, including two starring Amélie's Audrey Tautou.

While the entertainment world and the fashion industry remain two separate entities in themselves, with many spreading disciplines, they have definitely become more and more aligned, interconnected and interdependent. How this relationship will evolve over time is hard to tell with such a huge interrelation already in place, but one thing is for sure, they are forever bound to each other through ties of fortune, mutual respect and shared interest.

Josh Duhamel + Bar Refaeli pose for Arrow shirt ads

2011-11-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Over the course of not one, but three centuries the Arrow brand has consistently offered a deep reflection of authentic American fashion. Boasting 160 years of rich history and experience Arrow remained steady amid continual shifts in the market and has evolved into an international brand.

Israel fashion models Bar Refaeli and Josh Duhamel star in Arrow advertising campaign film. The first Arrow collection under PVH Europe launching at retail Fall 2011 will feature a three tier men’s shirt assortment comprising: classic, casual, and contemporary. Each unique collection will be reinterpreted for the modern world with detail surprises. Casual material might be used in a formal way and smart details surprise the most casual styles. The collection will offer shirts that are distinctly refined, structured, and tailored for comfort with a liberated to-the-point attitude.

Each tier is defined by unique fabrics inspired from its own encyclopedia archive, for instance: unique chambrays with ‘ombre’ plaids, window-pane checks with neutrals, and by fits that make a powerful statement. Alongside the main collections there is a dedicated range known as “The Arrow White” shirt. After all, a stylish man can never have too many white shirts. Arrow presents its collections quarterly to the market, with a price range from 69 to 99 euro’s.

Arrow’s authentic global presence is committed to providing quality apparel that embody the heritage of the company and deliver superior quality to consumers. Arrow uses its rich heritage and original designs to offer customers fashionable yet functional apparel. The extraordinary brand commands recognition for its commitment to produce a refined and relevant product.

Orchid Boutique brings Beach Bunny Swimwear

2011-11-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

The Orchid Boutique, a Miami based e-commerce site providing luxury swimwear for fashion-forward and style-savvy women, debuted Beach Bunny Swimwear on The Orchid Boutique’s website in October 2011. Beach Bunny Swimwear was launched in 2004 by Angela Chittenden, a former model, and offers designer swimwear with sensual designs, innovative fabrics, and boudoir-inspired details. The Orchid Boutique has added this luxury swimwear designer to their hand-picked selection as swimwear options for the glamorous girl.

Beach Bunny Swimwear 2011 Rock the Casbah collection is inspired by Marrakech Morocco with exotic jewel-tone colors of fuchsia, emerald green and amethyst purple. Constructed with rich textures and embellished with sequins and gold chains, this collection maintains Beach Bunny’s signature style by enhancing every woman’s natural beauty.

This year Beach Bunny proudly announced their newest collection, Beach Bunny Bride, filled with crisp white suits and embellished with Chantilly lace imported from France. For 2012, the Lola cruise collection was released with sequins, lace and ruffles galore; a simply glamorous look with a sweet side.

Beach Bunny designer, Angela Chittenden, says the brand designs what they want and the “creative freedom is what makes our suits so unique, and so popular.” She strives to design pieces so each woman can find a look to suit their unique personality. Beach Bunny Swimwear captures the California lifestyle and appeals to glamorous girls who are daring and fun.

Read More about Orchid Boutique brings Beach Bunny Swimwear @ Fibre2fashion

Madonna & Lola in search of next Material Girl

2011-11-01T05:54:00.000-07:00

MG Icon, the joint venture among Iconix Brand Group, Madonna and Guy Oseary announce its spring 2012 marketing initiatives for the Material Girl brand, which is available exclusively at Macy's in the United States and The Bay in Canada.

The brand's advertising campaign will take on a new direction for spring by hosting nationwide casting calls for the next "Lucky Stars" to appear in the national marketing campaign. The "Lucky Stars" model search will launch on Wednesday, November 2nd at Macy's Herald Square in New York and will culminate on November 21st online at website.

A celebrity-driven panel of judges, led by current Material Girl spokesperson Kelly Osbourne, will be searching the country to find the next Material Girls. "Lucky Stars" casting calls will be held at five of Macy's flagship locations in the United States including:

• Herald Square, New York - Wednesday, November 2 at 5:00 p.m.
• Dadeland, Miami - Friday, November 4 at 6:00 p.m.
• State Street, Chicago - Tuesday, November 8 at 5:30 p.m.
• Union Square, San Francisco - Saturday, November 12 at 2:00 p.m.
• Beverly Center, Los Angeles - Saturday, November 19 at 2:00 p.m.

Madonna and Lola commented, "This is not your standard model search. It's more about attitude. We are looking for a stylish, adventurous, creative, free spirit. We're both looking forward to meeting the ten finalists in New York in December."

"There is a material girl inside of every girl. She is brave and confident in herself and what she aspires to be," commented Kelly Osbourne.

Read More about Madonna & Lola in search of next Material Girl @ Fibre2fashion

Ultimo unveils Luisana Lopilato as its new face

2011-10-25T05:29:00.000-07:00

Argentinean actress Luisana Lopilato has been unveiled as the stunning new face of lingerie brand Ultimo.

The 24-year-old wife of Canadian singer Michael Buble will front the brand’s latest autumn/winter 2011 campaign. The campaign features Lopilato wearing structured pieces from the Ultimo Miracle collection from strapless bras and diamante embellished pieces to plunge-neck body suits.

The Buenos Aires-born star has earlier modeled innerwear, underwear and has featured in ad campaigns in Israel and Spain.

Luisana has made it to the Spanish FHM’s ‘100 Sexiest’ list continuously for the last three years.

Read more about Ultimo unveils Luisana Lopilato as its new face @ Fibre2fashion

Swimco’s swimwear collections embrace feminine curves

2011-10-24T02:54:00.000-07:00

Kim Kardashian can put her stamp of approval on the 2012 Cruise swimwear collections at Swimco. The Western Canadian swimwear retailer is excited to unveil their line-up of curve-friendly retro styles, from international swimwear fashion designers including Seafolly Australia. As a sign of where swimwear trends are headed, Seafolly brought Sarah Stephens, a natural D-cup model, onboard as a cover girl for their 2012 campaign.

Retro styles leave more to the imagination than your standard bikini or high-cut 1-piece", says Swimco's President Lori Bacon. "This season's will be one of the most flattering collections I've seen in my 30 years of buying swimwear".

High-waists, skirted bottoms, bustier tops and thick-strapped halters are reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe era beach attire. Says Bacon: "The retro swimwear trend is unique in that it appeals to multiple generations of women. It has the runway appeal that our trendy shopper craves, plus the extra coverage that our contemporary customer appreciates.

Good bust support is common in retro style tops, which are often constructed to accommodate up to a double D-cup. Retro 1-pieces have gathered fabric in the midsection to act as a tummy tamer, and skirted retro bottoms are an easy hip slimmer. "It's encouraging to see swimwear designers celebrating a woman's curves by offering beautiful styles that will make her look and feel her best on the beach", says Bacon.

NILIT to exhibit its innovative fibers at Intertextile

2011-10-18T05:50:00.000-07:00

NILIT , a global leader in the production of nylon 6.6, announced it will be displaying many of its revolutionary yarn, including NILIT Innergy, at the upcoming Intertextile Shanghai 2011 tradeshow. At the show, NILIT will also showcase the NILIT BodyFashion Trendbook for Spring/Summer 2013. Intertextile Shanghai is the leading international trade fair for apparel fabrics and accessories held yearly in China. It is set to take place October 18th-21st, 2011 in the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. The NILIT exhibit will be in Hall W3, Stand E42/F47.

Breaking new ground in yarn innovation

NILIT specializes in developing yarns with exceptional performance properties. NILIT Innergy is NILIT’s latest, cutting-edge fiber to reach the market. Made from nylon 6.6, NILIT Innergy has a built-in, naturally occurring mineral additive that creates far infrared ray (FIR) emissions. Garment made with NILIT Innergy yarns invigorate the body, increase feelings of well-being and help to reduce the appearance of cellulite. This makes the yarn perfect for shapers, hosiery, lingerie, medical socks, gloves and sportswear. Recently launched, visitors at Intertextile Shanghai will have the opportunity to experience firsthand this unique fiber.

In addition, numerous other NILIT yarns will be on display at the Intertextile Show. Among the yarns to be highlighted are: NILIT Softex - superior, full dull microfiber yarn that delivers supreme softness and rich coloration, NILIT Aquarius – with moisture management properties built-in to the fiber and NILIT Ecocare - recycled yarn with excellent color depth and dye uniformity.

Likewise, NILIT’s new bodyfashion trendbook for Spring/Summer 2013 will also be presented. The book features collections designed and conceived by NILIT fashion consultant Ilana Joselowitz. Bodywear and activewear are the focus of this year’s collection. Nilit offers a range of technologically advanced yarns that have been engineered to provide enhanced comfort and performance.

'Love 2 Laugh' from George’s Style Scouts

2011-10-17T06:10:00.000-07:00

Clementine Ralph, 16, from Gloucestershire, has been enlisted by George at Asda as the brains of fashion's next generation.

The George team, based at George House, Lutterworth, called on Clementine and three other teenage trendsetters to help them design a stylish new collection for the tween girl market. The range called 'Love 2 Laugh'.

George ran a nationwide search to discover four young budding fashionistas with a keen eye for design in July. The search was supported by teen site SugarScape and appeared across the George at Asda social media outlets including Facebook attracting interest from hundreds of girls across the nation keen to become a 'George Style Scout'.

Clementine made the cut to be part of the George 'fash pack', after impressing judges with her evident passion for fashion, her knowledge of catwalk trends and designers as well as their creative visions for the teen fashion genre.

As a Style Scouts competition winner, lucky Clementine had the chance to consult on the new Christmas collection, which is aimed at girls aged 9-16, and star in a professional photo shoot to model the first range.

Clementine said: "I've loved being a George Style Scout, working on the new Love 2 Laugh range with the George design team. I've learnt a lot about how a new collection is created, and I can't wait show my friends the range and wear my favourite items out and about knowing I've helped create them."

She helped put a name to the new girl's clothes collection and contributed their own creative visions on the garments, which with their input they now feel are perfect for the teen-girl market.

Paula Fowler, head of children's wear at George at Asda, said: "We wanted to launch a capsule collection that would genuinely appeal to girls aged 9-16, and what better way to achieve this than enlist help of four of the UK's trendiest teens! It's been great getting insight from the girls on what appeals to the notoriously hard to reach tween market and we're confident that this new collection will be a hit with all young budding fashionistas."

Read More about Love 2 Laugh' from George’s Style Scouts @ Fibre2fashion

Kanye West, Maroon 5 to serenade lingerie models

2011-10-15T03:35:00.000-07:00

Top models Alessandra Ambrosio, Miranda Kerr and Doutzen Kroes will strut in the annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show to live musical performances by Kanye West and Maroon 5.

The catwalk event, which also will include VS models Erin Heatherton, Candice Swanepoel, Lindsay Ellingson and Lily Aldridge, will be filmed on Nov. 9 for a televised special later in the month.

The Nov. 29 one-hour show on CBS will incorporate behind-the-scenes tidbits, model profiles and red-carpet interviews surrounding the much-hyped lingeries show. Of course, several models will step out in the elaborate wings that have become a signature of this runway, and one will wear the jewel-encrusted Fantasy Bra.

Last year, that honor went to Adriana Lima.

In 2007, West pulled out of a performance at the annual Victoria's Secret fashion show due to the sudden death of his mother after she underwent cosmetic surgery.

West has been a front-row regular at fashion shows for years, and earlier this month he debuted his own collection during Paris fashion week.

This Year Miranda Kerr worn Fantasy Treasure $2.5 Million Victoria's Secret Bra

2011-10-14T04:55:00.000-07:00

very year, Victoria's Secret features a Fantasy Treasure bra in their runway show. Why does it have this name? The bra is decorated with a variety of gems (and is obviously not intended for daily wear). Oh, and it is worth $2.5 Million.

This year, Miranda Kerr has the honor to wear Victoria's Secret's million dollar diamond-covered bra. The new mom will hit the runway this fall with fellow angels Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Candice Swanepoel, Doutzen Kroes, Erin Heatherton, Lily Aldridge and Lindsay Ellingson.

For a preview, take a look at Kerr walking for Victoria's Secret in the past

Read More about Miranda Kerr chosen to model US$ 2.5mn bra @ Fibre2fashion

Designer Tina Knowles visits University of Houston

2011-10-12T06:11:00.000-07:00

Award-winning fashion designers Tina Knowles made history on Monday, October 3, as her life story became the fifteenth addition to the University of Houston's "Living Archives." The Living Archives are the oral history arm of the Shuart Women's Archive and Research Collection.
Lauded for her work as a fashion designer and stylist, businesswoman and philanthropist, the Texas native told her story in an interview with journalist Joy Sewing of the Houston Chronicle. The enthusiastic crowd, including her lifelong friends and family members; three brothers, one sister, her niece and nephew and daughter, Beyonce, listened as Miss Tina (as she is affectionately known) told her story about growing up in Galveston, Texas, the youngest of seven children and recounted early lessons she learnt from her parents, particularly her seamstress mother, the late Agnez Dereon Beyonce, that would set her on her path. She also talked about her deep bond with her two daughters, Beyonce and Solange, and what it was like designing for and travelling with Destiny's Child.
Tina Knowles started making clothes in the early days for Destiny's Child because of small budgets and denial from major fashion houses to loan clothes to the still-budding group that would go on to become one of the most successful recording groups of all time.
Today she is the founder and creative director of three successful fashion collections, House of Dereon, the contemporary line which launched internationally at Selfridges & Co. in London last month, Dereon, the casual lifestyle brand and Miss Tina by Tina Knowles, which is sold exclusively at Walmart.
Seven Tina Knowles' designs, all worn famously by Beyonce including the dress she wore to the 2009 Oscars and one she wore to the 2006 Cannes Film Festival, were on display at the entrance of the University of Houston's MD Anderson Library.

Read more about Designer Tina Knowles visits University of Houston @ Fibre2fashion

Bake-Off Contest from Pillsbur

2011-10-11T05:59:00.000-07:00

The Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest has added a new ingredient to its recipe for cooking competition success! To add to the excitement of the contest, Pillsbury has asked three former contestants from a top fashion design reality show to compete in a “Runway Challenge” and help design the official apron to be worn by finalists as they compete for $1 million at the 45th Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest.

Althea Harper, Kara Janx and Carol Hannah Whitfield have each designed an apron to potentially be worn by the 100 finalists on the contest floor at the Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest finals which take place March 25-27, 2012, in Orlando, Fla.

The three designs will be posted on the Pillsbury Facebook page on Monday, Oct. 10 at 2 p.m. EDT for individuals to vote which design should become the official 45th Bake-Off® Contest apron. Voting closes on Monday, Oct. 17.

“Since the first Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest in 1949, the official contest apron has been a hallmark in every contest,” said Onju Sturlaugson, Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest Manager. “We’re so excited to have top designers on board to help create this year’s apron and know our 100 finalists will wear it with great pride.”

The Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest announced the final 100 home cooks who will compete for $1 million at the finals March 25-27 at the Peabody Orlando Hotel. The group’s creative original recipes beat out tens of thousands of recipe entries to earn the chance to compete for the grand prize. The list of 100 finalists is available at website.

The final 100 recipes for the 45th contest will be available in January 2012 on website. On March 26, the 100 home cooks will compete in four categories—Breakfast & Brunches, Entertaining Appetizers, Dinner Made Easy and Sweet Treats—side-by-side at 100 GE mini-kitchens at the Bake-Off Contest finals. Working in secrecy behind closed doors, a panel of food experts will taste the recipes prepared by the finalists and select the contest winners.

Read more about Bake-Off Contest from Pillsbur @ Fibre2fashion

Mac Duggal Show features new Spring dress collection

2011-10-10T06:11:00.000-07:00

The new spring collection of the latest dress and gown for the upcoming season were recently unveiled. The elegant designs were showcased at the Mac Duggal Spring 2012 Fashion Show at the AmericasMart in Atlanta, Georgia.

"This is an opportunity to unveil the long-awaited new spring styles," said Chicago designer Mac Duggal. "We have an exciting and fresh new look for proms, pageants, couture and wedding parties."

Using his more than 25 years of creative expertise, the designer has created styles in elegance for celebrities, socialites and up-and-comers for television, movies, pageants, weddings and other special occasions. His prom dresses, ball gowns and evening wear are soon to set the trends for spring.

One of the featured collections in the fashion show was the Sugar Collection, which has special designs for girls ages 5 through 15 who are entering pageants or participating in wedding parties.

The spring fashion show was a chance for Mac Duggal, LLC to display the designer's new offerings for 2012 in a unique setting. The spring dresses will soon be available in select boutiques.

Target collaborates with Josie Natori Lingerie & Loungewear

2011-10-08T03:44:00.000-07:00

Target Corporation is partnering with internationally renowned fashion designer Josie Natori to introduce its first limited-edition collection of lingerie and loungewear.

Josie Natori for Target is a luxurious, yet affordable collection that will arrive in two seasonally themed installments—the first is available Oct. 30 through Dec. 22, 2011 in time for the holiday season; the second will be available Jan. 1 through Feb. 23, 2012 in time for Valentine’s Day. both installments of Josie Natori for Target will be available at most Target stores and Target’s website.

“I am honored to be the first limited-edition lingerie and loungewear designer at Target,” said Josie Natori. “Through our partnership, I was able to create a collection for women who have an eye for innerwear style and want quality lingerie and loungewear at an affordable price.”

Inspired by the signature Josie Natori East-meets-West aesthetic, the collection is comprised of 37 pieces and includes bras, panties, robes, knit and woven pants, leggings, camis and chemises. The holiday collection features deep red geometric prints with Geisha accents while the Valentine’s Day collection includes floating butterflies with hot pink florals. Both collections include an assortment of solid-colored bras and panties.

“Josie Natori for Target will add an exciting element to our holiday assortment,” said Trish Adams, senior vice president of apparel and accessories. “Guests will love the quality, color and affordability of the collection, whether they’re buying the pieces for themselves or their family and friends.”

Crystal Jin's 2012 Collection to hit Plush store

2011-10-04T05:53:00.000-07:00

Plush Swimwear announced the inclusion of Crystal Jin to its online offerings of luxury, designer swimwear. Available now for pre-sale are select swimsuits from Crystal Jin's 2012 Collection.

Crystal Jin's stylish beachwear pieces are the creation of Manhattan based designer Crystal Eley. Founded in 2009, Crystal set out to create a swimwear brand that reflected her personal design statement. In a short time, Crystal Jin has become known for its modern, distinctive, and refined swimwear designs. Taking cues from her surroundings, each piece evokes New York City's edgy, casual-glam style.

Crafted from luxurious Italian fabrics, using exclusive hand-finished hardware and constructed with the utmost attention to detail, Crystal Jin's collections embody a sophisticated, urban-chic lifestyle. In addition to having graced the catwalks of the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Miami Fashion Week Swim, Crystal Jin styles have been featured in prestigious publications such as Ocean Drive, Lucky, Maxim, and Sports Illustrated - Swimsuit Edition, among others.

Select pieces from Crystal Jin's 2012 line are now available for pre-sale at the Plush Swimwear online boutique and will begin shipping in November. The Crystal Jin 2012 collection was inspired by elements of the Western life, and includes prints that evoke Native American mosaic and suede texture, old west motifs such as horseshoe-shaped embellishments and a palette with desert-like hues such as blues, oranges and browns.

Read More about Crystal Jin's 2012 Collection to hit Plush store @ Fibre2fashion

View more Crystal Jin's 2012 Collection Images

Sofia by Sofia Vergara collection for Kmart

2011-09-28T06:04:00.000-07:00

As the brand new Sofia by Sofia Vergara collection for Kmart hits stores this fall, so does its fun and innovative advertising campaign featuring Vergara's boundless energy, great sense of humor, and bold style. Just like the collection itself, the print and television ads were designed with real women in mind who want to feel confident and sexy- women who, as the tagline says, "Work What You Got."

"The whole idea was about channeling Sofia who has this fabulously distinct and infectious confidence. She's sexy and gorgeous for sure, but she's also got this tremendously funny, non-seriousness about her which we wanted to make sure not to lose in the campaign," said Courtney Vincent, associate creative director of advertising firm, Peterson Milla Hooks (PMH).

The print campaign, shot by famed photographer Norman Jean Roy, was captured in an intimate indoor setting, a brownstone in Brooklyn, N.Y., which lent a warm and personal tone to the photos. Clad in highlights from the collection, Vergara posed throughout the private home with key direction from Roy to ensure each shot conveyed both the essence of her character and collection.

The commercial spots took a different route and emphasized the versatility of the collection by utilizing advanced digital technology to feature Vergara morphing into women of different body types. Each woman lip synced to Vergara's voiceover track while projecting her confident and sexy persona.

Read More about Sofia by Sofia Vergara collection for Kmart @ Fibre2fashion

S2 wows crowd at Perth Fashion Festival

2011-09-27T06:10:00.000-07:00

The final day of Perth Fashion Festival (PFF) 2011 has arrived and will celebrate its closing with one of its biggest shows, the 25th anniversary of Western Australian fashion powerhouse Wheels & Dollbaby.

Last night featured the third and final Fashion Designer Capsule show including One Fell Swoop, Zhivago, Ange Lang and Zsadar. It was followed by the final runway show at Fashion Paramount for 2011 - S2.

It was a night of ‘firsts’ for Perth Fashion Festival with local designers, Zhivago and Zsadar, making their catwalk debut at Fashion Paramount and PFF 2011 International Model Search winner Shanae Millar walking for Ange Lang in Designer Capsule #3.

S2 wowed crowds with its strong aesthetic and theatrics.

Spotted front row was PFF 2011 Face and supermodel Nicole Trunfio, cricketer Mitchell Johnson and wife Jessica Johnson, fashion illustrator Pip McManus, designer Alvin Fernandez, radio presenter Em Rusciano, Troy and Sophia Barbagallo and footballer Ryan Crowley.

Read more about S2 wows crowd at Perth Fashion Festival @ Fibre2fashion

IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel launches FALL ICONIC COLLECTION

2011-09-24T03:26:00.000-07:00

Tailored and waist-defining wide-leg pant and elongated pencil skirt suits in rich tweeds, animal prints, and embellished, side-slit dress are just some of the highlights in IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel’s FALL ICONIC COLLECTION inspired by the golden ages of some of Hollywood’s most glamorous screen icons 40s through the 60s.
Founder and Head Designer to the award-winning American label, Yuliya Raquel has created a collection that lets us have a piece of our own Grace Kelly in the chic, ladylike styles; enjoy Greta Garbo’s impeccable cool in her men’s wear inspired suits; and reenact Gilda in the sensuous femme fatale gowns ala Rita Hayworth.

I am so excited about this collection where I was inspired and influenced by the glamour of these beautiful and powerful women who were the original, trend-setting style icons. They took their individual style to such exponential levels that they have continued to awe and impress fans around the world. The strong sense of style that each of these women created transcends time and celebrates the power of femininity for women of today and they will continue to do so for generations to come” said Yuliya Raquel.

The FALL ICONIC COLLECTION is a delightful juxtaposition of structured tailoring and soft draping that create curve-defining looks. Animal prints, seamed and elongated pencil skirts, origami tops, ruched and draped dresses, and coats provide for a flattering, chic, and stylish wardrobe.

Read More about IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel launches FALL ICONIC COLLECTION @ Fibre2fashion

New ADJUSTS-TO-ME offers women customized support

2011-09-23T06:03:00.000-07:00

No one understands the challenges women face when shopping for intimate apparel better than Maidenform. For decades, the company has worked tirelessly to create products that make the process easier, such as its new ADJUSTS-TO-ME collection. This collection of bras, panties and shapewear in self-adjusting fabric and elastics will hit stores this October and will offer women customized support and comfort suited to their unique curves.

The new yarn technology in the ADJUSTS-TO-ME line allows for high performance stretch and recovery within each garment (patent pending technology provides for 7 times more stretch than average garments), taking much of the guesswork out of sizing and forgiving fluctuations in women’s weights. The fabric in the collection incorporates technology from LYCRA beauty fabrics engineered for the utmost in comfort and fit.

Its shapewear is offered in just two sizes to fit XS-Medium and Large-XXL. Similarly, the ADJUSTS-TO-ME bras, launching with a tailored and a lace version, release in the cups to provide room when needed, contracting when not needed . Size small fits (34A, 36A, 34B, 32C), size medium fits (38A, 36B, 34C, 36C) and size large fits (38B, 38C, 34D, 36D, 34DD). The panties, a tailored hipster and a tailored g-string, come in one size and will adjust to every woman’s body for a custom made fit. The collection even crosses over to Maidenform’s Lilyette collection with a lace underwire making its debut this spring.

Read More about New ADJUSTS-TO-ME offers women customized support @ Fibre2fashion

Kazz Forbes to showcase F/W collection at Red Rose Ball

2011-09-22T06:02:00.000-07:00

Organizers of The Annual Red Rose Ball in The Bahamas has invited Kazz Forbes, Principal Designer of Saint George Fashion House (SGFH) to feature his Fall|Winter 2011 ‘Le Caicos Chic: A Romance with Decadence’ collection at this years’ prestigious event.

The Red Rose Ball is a charity fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting the Grand Bahama AIDS Awareness Committee in Freeport, Grand Bahama. Held under the distinguished patronage of The Rt. Hon. Hubert A. Ingraham, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and Mrs. Delores Ingraham – the ball takes place on Saturday, November 5th, 2011 at the Radisson’s Grand Ballroom at Our Lucaya Resort.

Under the theme: ‘A Night at the Opera House, Australia’ – the black-tie charity affair will see guests enjoying a scrumptious five-course cuisine, outstanding entertainment – with the pièce de résistance being Forbes’ Fall|Winter 2011 collection that debuted at the Caribbean International Fashion Week in New York this June.

Influenced by his photography background and love of art, creativity and travel, Kazz translates his inspirations into this high-end couture line that is decisively modern, yet sophisticated. Kazz designs for the contemporary every day man and woman who have an appreciation of fine artistry in clothing and jewelry, and want each person to feel elegant and inspired by his collection. The Saint George Fashion House label is indeed ‘edgy, sexy, bold.’

Designer Laura closes NYF Week on right trends

2011-09-20T06:03:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, September 15th Laura Smalls unveiled her S/S 2012 "Legacy" runway, anchored by her signature collection of dress featuring both slim-shaped and flare silhouettes. Her looks incorporated lots of draping details, patchwork, color blocks, and appliqué details while also playing with striped patterns. She was right on trend with color, infusing a palette of sun bursting yellows, blood orange hues and green brights complimented by a chic collection of Manolo Blahnik heels.

Since beginning her independent designs in 2009 with her "30 Dresses” collection, it is expected that Smalls will put on a runway that exudes elegance and sophistication and her fifth series delivered that and more. The audience was filled with the "who's who" of New York and fashion in front row attendance at the luxurious Centurion Condominiums penthouse setting, including Vogue's Andre Leon Talley, Italian Vogue's Bethann Hardison, supermodel Chanel Iman, music icon Valerie Simpson, opera sensation Kathleen Battle and actress Grace Hightower De Niro.

"Laura Smalls has the ability to register modern contemporary fashion that is a throwback to ladylike elegance when dressing up for any moment in a day meant something", said Vogue's Contributing Editor Andre Leon Talley post show. "Think Sophisticated Lady”, he continues, “Vibrant color for spring is the new trend. Smalls puts the vitality of saturated celadon green in satin evening dress with embroidered petals at the hem for a dramatic red carpet entrance maker.

Read More about Designer Laura closes NYF Week on right trends @ Fibre2fashion

Gossip Girl to launch fashion Clothing line

2011-09-19T05:56:00.000-07:00

Spotted! Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Warner Bros. Television Group (WBTVG), together with Romeo & Juliet Couture, announced the launch of the highly anticipated Gossip Girl–inspired apparel collection, Gossip Girl by Romeo & Juliet Couture. Featuring chic, contemporary fashions, the line will hit high-end fashion retailers — beginning with Kitson, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue — this fall in conjunction with season five of Gossip Girl, which premieres Monday, September 26, at 8/7c on The CW.

Romeo & Juliet Couture’s sophisticated “inspired by Gossip Girl” collection will feature designs inspired by the characters in the stylish and trend-setting series, including tops,dress, bottoms and outerwear, and will extend into handbags and accessories for the spring collection.

“The entire collection was inspired by the modern and sophisticated young women portrayed in the show Gossip Girl,” said David Shamouelian, CEO of Romeo & Juliet Couture. “The designs are intended to empower young, independent women to embrace their feminine side and still maintain their strength.”

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Romeo & Juliet Couture on the sophisticated, fashion-forward line that truly brings the essence of the series to life,” said Maryellen Zarakas, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Marketing and TV & Studio Licensing, Warner Bros. Consumer Products. “Romeo & Juliet Couture has created a collection that will resonate with fans of the show.”

Read More about Gossip Girl to launch fashion Clothing line @ Fibre2fashion

View more Gossip Girl fashion Clothing images

MOAT to launch Stunning Day to Dark Collection

2011-09-17T03:47:00.000-07:00

What do Grace Jones, Sneaky Sound System and Miley Grace have in common? They've all been spotted sporting threads by emerging Australian swimwear label Muther of All Things, that's what.

And rightly so. Boned corsets, capped sleeve leotards, and plunging V necklines are just some of the creations you'll be seeing on the beach this season thanks to the high fashion meets beach nomad style of Muther Of All Things. MOAT will launch their hotly anticipated Summer 2011-2012 range on October 1st, 2011.

Fresh on the heels of their much-lauded 2010 debut, MOAT’s latest range features multiple designs that can be worn in the day as well as after dark.

Statement pieces include the Lenny II, a long sleeve leotard surfsuit made to withstand the rigors of the ocean, yet graceful enough to wear dining out. Or the eye-catching Corvet, a structured and boned corset-style two piece that continues MOAT’s signature surf-meets-couture look, ensuring effortless transitions from the beach to the bar.

Across the range MOAT proves function and fashion don’t need to be mutually exclusive. “We wanted to create a swim and surf label with a fresh twist; beautiful pieces made by women for women seeking something stylish and functional,” explains MOAT co-founder, Marisa Sidoti. Marisa formed MOAT with longtime friend Joceline Godfrey, and the duo claim Byron Bay’s surf bohemian lifestyle provided the catalyst for MOAT’s inception. “We’d both just started to get into surfing, and straight away saw our niche. With so many ladies out there these days, we knew we were bound to make some of them happy,” Sidoti said.

Read More about MOAT to launch Stunning Day to Dark Collection @ Fibre2fashion

Gisele Bündchen - New face of Esprit fall winter

2011-09-16T06:31:00.000-07:00

Gisele Bündchen, the top Brazilian fashion model is the new face of the Esprit Fall-Holiday campaign. This stunning beauty was selected for this campaign as she represents the evolution of the ‘Esprit shopper’.

The International lifestyle Apparel brand Esprit presents a new look and a charismatic face to the Esprit woman as a homage, and welcomes this new Fall/Holiday 2011/12 season.

This new Esprit campaign focuses more on the product, the substance, variety and quality of the lines form the core of the campaign. The various Esprit women’s lines present three modern styles – the three Iconic Styles. Depending on the occasion, they can be transformed into a completely new look, either casual, business or glamorous: a camel coat from Esprit Collection, a jacket from the Women Casual line and a pilot-style leather jacket from the de.corp range.

Gisele Bündchen embodies easy elegance, charisma and naturalness and is therefore perfectly suited to the Californian spirit of the Esprit brand. At the heart of the Iconic photo shoot Bundchen represents the Esprit woman – a personality with a fresh, individual look. She embodies a friendly and expressive spirit – not a girl, but a self-confident and straightforward woman, who is well dressed 24/7.

The Iconic Styles are interpreted by renowned stylist Camille Bidault-Waddington. International fashion magazines and top photographers value her coveted and inspiring styling.

Read more about Gisele Bündchen - New face of Esprit fall winter @ Fibre2fashion

View more Gisele Bündchen images

All Good Things Must Come To An End

2011-08-12T06:39:00.000-07:00

Department Store Retailing News Followers:

As I am sure you have noticed, I have stopped posting information to this blog site. I recently started a new position in my company and the hours currently required there have just eliminated (at least for the time being) any possibility of keeping things up to date with the standards that I would want to maintain.

A good source for links to everything retail can be found on a website called Retail Sales. It is comprehensive and includes a lot of thoughtful commentary on the U.S Retail industry. Here is the link to Retail Sales.

Thanks for following and my best regards to you.

Bill

Surf's Up

2011-07-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

Customers Search Internet For Back To School Deals

2011-07-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

by Sharon Edelson
From WWD Issue 07/19/2011

Facing sticker shock at the pumps, consumers are traveling no further than their computers to log onto price comparison search engines for back-to-school deals for their kids.

While b-t-s shopping budgets will be flat or shrink slightly as cautious consumers maintain a recession mind-set, e-commerce is poised to significantly gain market share, as it did last Christmas season when it more than doubled its growth rate. “The Internet is already highly promotional,” said Walter Loeb, founder of Loeb Associates. “That’s where retailers are gaining share. Many retailers at the mall were empty last Sunday. Success this b-t-s season will be selective and it won’t be for all retailers. There’s no sense of free spending exuberance. Department stores will get their share if they don’t have a sale every Friday and Saturday,” as has been their custom during the b-t-s selling period.

A b-t-s forecast survey by PriceGrabber, a part of Experian, found that 69 percent of consumers plan to shop online and use comparison shopping sites as a money-saving technique, compared with 23 percent in 2010. Forty-one percent of shoppers said they’ll visit retailer Web sites this b-t-s period to print out coupons, versus 33 percent last year.

“Clothing retailers will always benefit from the b-t-s shopping season, and we suspect that the increase in purchases in this category can be attributed to the recent wide availability of affordable, designer-inspired clothes,” said Graham Jones, general manager of PriceGrabber. “Parents looking to keep their kids on-trend may find it easier to stay within their budget by comparing prices online for a discounted pair of designer jeans and extending the life of the expensive electronics they already own.”

PriceGrabber’s survey found that 48 percent of consumers plan to spend $250 or more on b-t-s purchases, and 25 percent will spend $500 or more, a modest decrease from b-t-s budgets in 2010, when 56 percent of consumers said they’d spend $250 or more and 31 percent planned to spend $500 or more. The survey of 2,612 U.S. online consumers was conducted May 12 to 19.

The NPD Group’s study of consumers’ purchasing intentions for the b-t-s season saw little change in the amount shoppers plan to spend. The same number — 38 percent — said they planned to spend more this year than last, and 22 percent said they would spend less in both periods. Once again, value is their modus operandi.

“We have a clear sign that ‘trendy and fashionable’ or ‘influenced by friends’ is shrinking and ‘value’ is gaining momentum,” said Marshal Cohen, NPD’s chief industry analyst. “The study’s results clearly point out that consumers will be shopping later, looking for value, and searching out lower priced options.”

That should benefit mass chains like Target, Kmart and Wal-Mart. “Target.com continues to be a destination, especially at monumental moments like b-t-s,” said a spokeswoman for the retailer. “There’s an expanded assortment on Target.com, an option for students to make lists and a back-to-college checklist where we’ve curated a list of products students need as they head back to college. Even if they’re not shopping online, our guests are doing some homework and preview shopping.”

A key launch for b-t-s is Denizen jeans from Levi’s, with styles for the whole family. The brand, which is exclusive to Target, features jeans in a variety of washes, dyes and fits. Skinny jeans for boys and girls are $17.99. Shake it Up, the new collection from the Disney Channel’s D-Signed brand, consists of fashion tops, leggings, screen prints and jackets inspired by Ashley Tisdale’s Sharpay character from the “High School Musical” series. Customization and personalization of items for b-t-s includes Paul Frank stationary and notebooks, where kids can color the iconic monkey to their liking.

“B-t-s is the second biggest season” next to Christmas, in terms of sales, said Mark Snyder, chief marketing officer at Kmart. “Our customer is compressing the frequency of her trips and saying she’s being more thoughtful and deliberate in what she’s choosing.”

Kmart is trying to leverage social networking in the b-t-s arena. “Selena Gomez has 4 million followers on Facebook,” Snyder said, referring to the actress, whose Dream Out Loud collection is sold exclusively at Kmart. “With the celebrity deals you put together today, you negotiate with them to tweet and do Twitter parties. In the old days it was, ‘How many appearances can you make?’”

Kmart’s silver bullet, according to Snyder, is layaway. “In this post credit-crazy world, it’s one of the things that will get the customer into the store, along with great prices. We grew layaway in 2009 by 3 million families.Layaway is growing in influence every year,” he said.

However, Amy Noblin, a retail analyst at Weeden & Co., said retailers are adopting a more conservative tone with regard to b-t-s. “The economic data have been mixed. There’s a lot of uncertainty around pricing,” she said, referring to how higher cotton prices will impact consumer prices. “That’s the big wild card. Retailers are waiting to see what [their competitors] are going to do with pricing. Certain retailers have been able to deflect some increases to the spring. The price increases will be bigger in the second half of the year. The more cotton-exposed categories are up more.”

For example, Noblin said graphic T-shirts are up $2 to $5, hoodies up by $10 and there are more high-priced denim stockkeeping units offered in the category. “You’re going to see more promotions that help mask the price increases,” she said.

Denim will be important, as always, with styles ranging from “the skinniest leg through boot cut to straight leg to a slightly wider flare,” said Tana Ward, senior vice president and chief merchandising officer for American Eagle Outfitters Inc. “It’s not really about one fit.”

American Eagle’s b-t-s offerings have more of a rocker influence with the marketing message “We the People,” edgier graphics on T-shirts and crop tops. Pre-planned promotions start as early as this week and will continue throughout the season. Ward said American Eagle continues to see more visitors online.

“To truly win b-t-s, J.C. Penney is reaching a new and younger customer through unique digital experiences,” said a J.C. Penney Co. Inc. spokeswoman. “We want to be part of their online social circle through virtual tools that enable them to express their personal style while getting involved in a worthy cause.”

That includes using mobile devices, QR codes, MS Tags and location based check-in this b-t-s season. Penney’s is leveraging the popularity of haul videos, which blend video blogging and a fashion show-and-tell, with a Haul Nation contest on its Facebook page. Teens can upload their haul videos for a chance to win a trip to New York City.

Stardoll, a new brand for b-t-s based on Stardoll.com, is bowing at Penney’s. With more than 100 million users worldwide, Stardoll.com claims to be “the world’s largest fashion and dress up games community for girls.” Penney’s is capitalizing on the popularity of girls designing and dressing personalized “MeDoll” avatars by using those style trends to create Stardoll clothing and accessories, such as five-pocket jeans, $23.99, and floral flounce tops, $17.99. The retailer is also launching its largest-ever online cause marketing campaign to benefit kids’ after-school programs, a spokeswoman said.

Sears is introducing a new juniors brand called American Star. Mix and match related separates feature trendy looks with an “uptown bohemian” feel, a spokeswoman said, adding, “It’s an inspirational collection for us.” Superstretchy jeans and jeggings come in a range of washes and fits this season and jeans have details such as “bling” on the back pockets.

“We do see a trend in increased shopping in September as many kids check out what their friends are wearing, take note of those trends and return to the stores or go online to purchase additional, key items,” she said.

New Chairman To Head Zara's Parent Company

2011-07-19T12:27:00.000-07:00

by Barbara Barker
From WWD Issue 07/19/2011

Inditex will today enter a new era.

The parent company of Zara, Europe’s largest apparel retailer, will today see a change in management when chairman and founder Amancio Ortega, dubbed “the inventor of the Zaravolution,” steps down and hands the reins to Pablo Isla, who had been the group’s chief executive officer and deputy chairman since 2005.

But while the 75-year-old immensely secretive and low-key Ortega may be stepping down, he is hardly out — especially since he still controls the majority of the company’s shares. “Nothing has changed. He still controls the company and he still has a lot to say — and nobody doubts that he will say it,” said Sofía Vázquez, a reporter for La Voz de Galicia, a regional newspaper in the north of Spain, which is the company’s home base.

“Amancio is making another smart move, preparing for the future with similar logic and the same intelligence he has always used to run the company, but I think he’ll remain very close by,” added Linda Heras, international development director of Roberto Verino, a high-end apparel label and geographical neighbor.

Inditex operates 5,154 stores in 78 countries, with net profits of 1.73 billion euros, or $2.29 billion at average exchange, for the 2010 fiscal year on sales of 12.5 billion euros, or $16.5 billion. With eight chains led by Zara, Ortega’s empire has a workforce of roughly 100,000.

Under Isla’s watch, Inditex rolled out more than 2,800 stores with the top priorities being expansion in Asia and Eastern Europe, as well as growing e-commerce.

Pending shareholder approval, Isla will receive a hefty block of shares, worth 13.7 million euros, or $19.6 million at current exchange, as “a welcome gift” from Ortega, a company source confirmed.

About his succession, Isla said, “It is not a drastic move and there won’t be any major changes. I feel enormous responsibility and motivation to strengthen Inditex, and it’s the right moment. The transition will be smooth and very natural.”

Outside Inditex’s corporate inner sanctum, little is known about Ortega except that he’s the richest man in Spain — and the seventh richest (up two notches over last year) in the world, with a net worth of $31 billion, Forbes reported in March. His fortune includes Inditex stock — he has maintained a 59.3 percent stake in the company since it went public in 2001 — and luxury real estate projects in the U.S., Florida in particular, and in such major European cities as London, Paris, Lisbon, Berlin, Madrid and Barcelona. He has additional investments in banks, gas and tourism and owns a horse-jumping circuit and a soccer league.

Ortega is not much for fanfare and personal public relations is not in his DNA. He’s been quoted as saying, “Talk about my company, but not about me,” and he rarely appears in public.

One of the few to penetrate company walls is avant-garde Spanish artist Alicia Framis, whose filmed performance “Secret Strike — Inditex” (2006) chronicled a day in the life of Zara. “Inditex employees were very involved in the film,” Framis said. “Everybody wanted to be a part of it — except Amancio Ortega.”

Ortega’s is a rags-to-riches story. In the early Sixties, he came up with the idea of making basic garments like housecoats and underwear cheaper than anyone else. Production took place on his kitchen table, and the first item cut from cardboard patterns was a quilted pink robe with blue piping. In 1975, he opened his first store here, selling bathrobes for about 50 cents each.

Working from the age of 13 in local men’s wear shops, he had little formal education. “I couldn’t work and study at the same time; it’s that simple. My university was my profession. I wanted to be a different kind of impresario, one with a social conscience,” he told Covadonga O’Shea, onetime director of Spain’s prestigious fashion magazine Telva, in an authorized biography published in 2008.

“His success has not changed him,” O’Shea said. “His values are the same; he’s humble, affectionate, generous, and he loves the people he works with.”

Ortega lives with his second wife, Flora Pérez Marcote, in an apartment in La Coruña, an unpretentious seaside town about six miles from Inditex’s headquarters in the industrial zone of Arteixo. He doesn’t speak English and, according to an employee, “he’s approachable and into everything. He lives the product,” she said.

It remains to be seen how involved Ortega will be in the company he founded, now that Isla is taking over. But the next generation of the Ortega family already is involved: The founder’s youngest daughter, Marta Ortega, was last fall brought into company headquarters, and although she has no concrete job, department or title, she’s in on all major decision making. An Inditex spokesman said her arrival and the pending management succession are unrelated, however. “She will continue her training program, a mix of creative and commercial activities, within the group and, logically [as Ortega’s daughter], she’ll have a role but so far she isn’t officially involved in the company. We don’t know anything about her future.”

Prior to Isla’s promotion, Marta Ortega was considered the heir apparent, and she’s been well groomed for it. With a degree in business administration from London’s European Business School, she speaks four languages — including English, French and Italian — and to date has interned for company stores in London and Paris, with office stints in Asia and Barcelona.

In private, she is an accomplished equestrian, taking part in international competitions with rider-boyfriend Sergio Alvarez Moya — and as socially shy as her father.

Back to School? Summer Season for Shopping Is Early This Year

2011-07-19T09:33:00.000-07:00

New York Times
By Stuart Elliott
Published: July 18, 2011

Many retailers and advertisers are moving up the start of their back-to-school campaigns, hoping to catch shoppers whenever they can.

Although The New York Times is charging for some of their content, readers coming through links from search engines, blogs and LinkedIn will be able to read any artible without restriction.
Click here to read the entire article at www.nytimes.com:
Back to School? Summer Season for Shopping Is Early This Year

Calling Off Auction, Borders to Liquidate

2011-07-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

New York Times
By Michael J. De La Merced and Julie Bosman
Published: July 18, 2011

Borders called off an auction for itself after finding no last-minute saviors, and instead plans to go ahead with a bid from two liquidators.

Although The New York Times is charging for some of their content, readers coming through links from search engines, blogs and LinkedIn will be able to read any article without restriction.
Click here to read the entire article at www.nytimes.com:
Calling Off Auction, Borders to Liquidate

Mexx Brand On Auction Block?

2011-07-18T14:19:00.000-07:00

Bloomberg News
By Jeffrey McCracken and Jonathan Keehner

Liz Claiborne Inc., the owner of Juicy Couture and Kate Spade, is making presentations to private-equity firms to sell its money-losing Mexx brand, said two people with knowledge of the matter.

Leonard Green & Partners, Sun Capital and Golden Gate Capital are among the firms that have explored a possible acquisition of the Mexx business, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the talks are private. Mexx is Liz Claiborne’s largest division and accounts for about a third of its revenue.

Final bids will be due in a few weeks with a sale probably completed around early September, said one of the people. Liz Claiborne is seeking to maintain a small stake in Mexx, which has stores in Europe, Russia and Canada, the person said.

The Mexx business may fetch about $100 million, said the person. Liz Claiborne will also try to require any buyer to put in as much as another $100 million to cover debt and capital requirements, said the person.

Jane Randel, a Liz Claiborne spokeswoman, declined to comment on the company’s progress in studying alternatives for Mexx. Liz Claiborne is pursuing its goal, stated April 28, to reduce its exposure to Mexx by various means, she said.

“There are no timelines at this point, but we continue to pursue our previously stated goal of break-even operating profit for the global brand by the end of 2012,” Randel said.

A spokesman for Sun Capital declined to comment. A representative for Golden Gate couldn’t be reached for comment and a spokesperson for Leonard Green didn’t immediately return calls.

Since 2007, Chief Executive Officer Bill McComb has sought to create freestanding, profitable operations for Mexx, Juicy Couture, Lucky Brand and Kate Spade. In 2009, he brought in Thomas Grote, former president of Esprit, to run the Mexx division and revive its sagging sales in Europe.

Liz Claiborne said first-quarter international sales fell 9 percent due to declining retail and wholesale revenue in Mexx Europe. The company has posted losses in each of the past 14 quarters and the share price has sunk more than 80 percent in the past four years.

Macy’s is the Back-to-School Destination for New Brands, Educational Activities and Give Back Programs

2011-07-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

Macy's Press Release on Business Wire

Macy’s is the place for back-to-school, announcing today several exciting new initiatives headlining the retailer’s annual offering of exclusive fashion brands, family-oriented activities and charitable partnerships with Reading Is Fundamental®, DoSomething.org® and the new online web series, Wendy. From fashionable and affordable apparel to give-back programs, Macy’s is your fashion and lifestyle destination this back-to-school season.

“With great fashion, reliable value and exciting events – Macy’s is once again a popular one-stop destination for kids and teens getting ready for back-to-school,” said Martine Reardon, executive vice president of marketing for Macy’s. “We continue to introduce new brands to keep our assortment fresh and to develop compelling store events and cause programs that will get everyone excited about heading back into the classroom.”

NEW BACK-TO SCHOOL BRANDS

Macy’s is the shopping destination for new brands this season, with fresh fashion appealing to young men and women that want to look original, effortless and authentic, as they head back to school this fall.

MATERIAL GIRL – This back-to-school season, Material Girl is launching new product categories to add excitement to its’ already extensive assortment. Today’s “Material Girl” will now be able to look good from head-to-toe with feminine, flirty and bold beauty items that allow experimentation and champion self-expression. From lip gloss and nail polish, to body lotion and body mist, teens will have everything they need to make a statement as they head back to class. The Material Girl beauty line was inspired by Lola’s favorite bands, designers, fashion trends and style icons, including, of course, her mother. Acting as an expression of Lola’s forward-thinking taste and fearless sense of style, this collection has been given the stamp of approval from the original Material Girl herself, Madonna. Priced from $7 to $20, Material Girl beauty will be sold in approximately 375 Macy’s stores and online at www.macys.com/mstylelab beginning mid-August. Other categories for the fall 2011 season will include denim, bedding and intimates, to be sold in approximately 125 Macy’s stores. The Material Girl collection currently consists of apparel, swim, footwear, handbags and jewelry.

CHARMED BY MAIDENFORM – Launched this June, Charmed by Maidenform is available exclusively in 460 Macy’s stores nationwide. The intimate line offers the ultimate in comfort and convertibility with fashionable and playful designs for girls ages 16 - 24. Bras start at $26 for one, two-pack bras for $40 and bandeau tops at $18. Charmed by Maidenform also offers panties in sizes small through large, starting at $8.50 or three for $18.

JESSICA SIMPSON JUNIOR SPORTSWEAR – This August, young fashionistas will have the opportunity to dress like Macy’s star Jessica Simpson. Expanding on her current clothing collection, Jessica Simpson will now offer sportswear to the junior consumer. With a more sophisticated feel, this collection offers pieces that are dressed up and ladylike, yet have a bit of funk and flair. With a lot of style, these are not your average suits or skirts, but 9-5 work wear that is updated and fresh. Selling on average from $34 – $98, with higher-end faux fur pieces selling up to $129, key pieces will include tops, blazers, knits, sweaters and pants available in approximately 150 Macy’s stores nationwide.

TOMMY GIRL – The Tommy Girl collection, which targets girls ages 12 – 18, features signature Hilfiger pieces such as Oxford shirts, polos and peacoats, all with a touch of fun and femininity. Sold on the juniors floors of Macy’s, the collection will sit in a newly-designed shop environment reflecting the brand’s preppy point of view and classically cool American heritage. Tommy Girl will be sold exclusively in 150 Macy’s stores nationwide beginning July with prices ranging from $32 for t-shirts to $129 for outerwear.

FUN FAMILY EVENTS AND GIVE BACK PROGRAMS FOR THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SEASON

Macy’s will energize your in-store experience with exciting events that will get kids ready to learn this back-to-school season:

READING IS FUNDAMENTAL®– Macy’s and Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) have joined together to launch Be Book Smart, RIF’s largest customer-supported campaign held at Macy’s stores nationwide. This effort, held at local Macy’s stores during the back-to-school season, aims to raise money for local RIF programs and to provide reading resources to underserved children in an effort to raise awareness and support for children’s literacy. The program also provides a great shopping incentive for families doing back-to-school shopping. Beginning June 24 – July 31, Macy’s customers can give $3 to help provide a book for a child and get $10 off a purchase of $50. Macy’s will donate 100 percent of every $3 to RIF. Since 2004, Macy’s has raised more than $16 million to support children’s literacy.

MACY’S 6TH ANNUAL SPELLING BEE – Kids ages 8 through 11 can join Macy’s and Reading Is Fundamental this back-to-school season to show how well they can S-P-E-L-L! The annual Spelling Bees will take place in 29 cities beginning Aug. 13 with a grand finale in Macy’s Herald Square in NYC on Sept. 24. Each regional Spelling Bee champ will take home great prizes including a year of online learning from Kaplan Smart Track and a $150 online gift card from Scholastic®. The winner of the Final Bee in NYC will receive a magical California vacation for a family of four including round-trip air travel, hotel accommodations and more, provided by Radio Disney®! The grand prize winner will also receive a $5,000 Kaplan Tutoring Scholarship and a $500 Scholastic online gift card. For more details and a complete listing of Macy’s locations hosting the Spelling Bee, visit www.macys.com/spellingbee (site will be live as of 8/15).

DOSOMETHING.ORG®– For the first time, Macy’s is partnering with DoSomething.org, one of the nation's largest organizations that helps young people rock causes they care about by raising awareness, inspiring, empowering and celebrating a generation of doers who recognize the need to do something, believe in their ability to get it done and take action. As a driving force in creating a culture of volunteerism, DoSomething.org is on track to activate two million young people in 2011. Beginning Aug. 8 through Oct. 15, you can help raise money and spread the word by joining Macy’s and DoSomething.org’s “raise your phone and rock your cause” campaign. Customers can visit Macy’s mstylelab departments (formerly juniors and young men’s) to take part in the scan-to-donate program that celebrates and rewards youth activism. In return, Macy’s will donate $1, up to a total of $250,000*, to DoSomething.org. Customers who scan the code will trigger the $1 donation and have the opportunity to find out ways to do more in their community. In addition to in-store efforts, customers can take part in a social media activation that helps youths "Raise your thumb. Rock your cause." For every "like" on the mstylelab Facebook page, Macy's will donate $1, up to $250,000, to DoSomething.org. (*Total Donation of $250,000 includes in-store scans and online Facebook activations.) DoSomething.org will reach out to all young people who participate in this program and are passionate about a cause to help them find ways to take action.

SCHOOL SPIRIT FACEBOOK ACTIVATION– Beginning July 28 through Sept. 10 “raise your thumb” for your school and the chance to win a $25,000 classroom makeover by visiting www.facebook.com/macys. Become a fan of Macy’s Facebook page and nominate your school, grades K-12, for the ultimate classroom upgrade! Visit www.facebook.com/macys for complete details.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS

Always “ahead of the curve,” Macy’s has created exciting youth-centric partnerships that focus on what’s interesting to the teen and tween in your life.

WENDY– This back-to-school season, Macy’s has partnered with Alloy Entertainment (the executive producers of Pretty Little Liars and The Vampire Diaries) to showcase the retailer’s fashion offerings in the original web series, Wendy. A modern reimagining of a timeless story, Wendy is a romance about a girl who must choose between the boy she loves and the boy of her dreams. The series stars Meaghan Martin (Camp Rock, Mean Girls 2, 10 Things I Hate About You) as Wendy and Tyler Blackburn (Pretty Little Liars) as Pete. Premiering Sept. 15 on Macy’s youth-centric website www.macys.com/mstylelab, viewers will be able to watch a new webisode every Tuesday and Thursday until the season finale, which will premiere on Oct. 4.

Throughout August, fans can preview the series via special content, including a music video starring lead character Pete (with an accompanying free MP3 music download), and a “Behind the Scenes Style” video providing a first-hand look at how the wardrobes are created for each of the lead characters, giving viewers an exclusive peek at the hottest back-to-school fashion. Viewers will also get to know the actors and their overall experience shooting this innovative series via cast interviews posted in late August. Beginning July 28, fans that “Like the Look” can win the wardrobe of Wendy’s stars: viewers that “like” www.facebook.com/mstylelab through Oct. 31 will be entered to win a $1,000 shopping spree in New York. (For official rules, visit www.facebook.com/mstylelab.) With the addition of on-screen trend lists, viewers will get Macy’s fashion recommendations based on the lead characters' signature style worn during each episode.

MACY’S BACK-TO-SCHOOL TREND REPORT

This fall, kids are heading back-to-school in style with the latest fashions at an affordable price from Macy’s. With must-have items for girls and boys, Macy’s is your one-stop shopping destination for everything from denim to dresses to graphic tees. This season, girls get schooled in prep academy chic, with varsity jackets and collegiate sweatshirts taking center stage. Add some fun to your buttoned-up look with folk and Fair Isle accent trim and border detail in cropped jersey tees, woven shirting, lightweight sweaters and flirty skirts. As true fall dressing takes form, novelty tailored jackets and equestrian-print wovens look best when worn with flared denim. Not to forget the boys, varsity and pep squad-inspired tees paired with washed denim and topped with striped collegiate tops create the perfect back-to-school outfit. Bold graphic tees with Atari, Star Wars and other vintage screens look fresh this school year when worn with dark and rigid slim denim and topped with vibrantly colored plaid polos.

Visit www.macys.com for more information on what’s trendy for back-to-school and the fabulous promotions and special events that will take place beginning this July.

Borders Headed Toward Cliff -- Will Probably Go Over

2011-07-18T14:02:00.000-07:00

Wall Street Journal
By Mike Spector and Jeffery A. Trachtenberg

Borders Group Inc. inched closer to liquidation Sunday after a bidding deadline passed without offers that would keep the U.S.'s second-largest bookstore chain in business, said people familiar with the matter.

Bids for Borders were due at 5:00 p.m. EDT Sunday ahead of a bankruptcy-court auction scheduled for Tuesday.

Still, Borders is likely to entertain offers right up until the scheduled auction in the hopes a white knight will emerge to save the chain.

By late Sunday, Borders was in discussions with Books-A-Million Inc., a bookstore chain based in Birmingham, Ala., on some kind of potential deal, said people familiar with the matter. It remained unclear whether Books-A-Million would be in a position to save all of what remains of Borders, and fluid discussions were under way with other parties, too, one of the people said. Books-A-Million's 2011 annual report said it operates 231 stores in 23 states and the District of Columbia and sells on the Internet. Books-A-Million couldn't be reached.

The dearth of bids to keep the company running increases the odds that Borders, which employs nearly 11,000 people, will be sold to a group of liquidators this week, putting the chain out of business for good.

If a new bidder fails to emerge in the next 48 hours or so, a new wave of vacancies would hit big-box stores in malls and shopping centers across the U.S. About 400 Borders stores remain, including about 259 superstores. Their closure could hasten the decline in sales of hardcovers and paperbacks and could boost sales of electronic books at Amazon.com Inc. and other online retailers. Barnes & Noble Inc. would be left as the sole remaining national book chain.

Borders Group President Mike Edwards said Sunday in an interview that the retailer had received some inquiries over the weekend. "Hopefully we'll see a positive outcome," he said.

Borders's best chance to survive fell apart last week, when negotiations with private-equity investor Jahm Najafi to buy the company collapsed. A subsidiary of Mr. Najafi's Direct Brands, a company that markets books and DVDs straight to consumers, was set to be the opening bidder in Tuesday's auction, offering $215 million and an assumption of $220 million in liabilities.

But creditors, including publishers and landlords, objected to the bid's structure, saying it would allow Mr. Najafi to liquidate Borders after he bought the company. The creditors argued that a backup bid from liquidators led by Hilco Merchant Resources and Gordon Brothers Group that could pay them between $252 million and $284 million made for a better deal.

In an interview Sunday afternoon, Mr. Najafi said his company wouldn't bid again for Borders. "We have reluctantly made a decision not to participate in the auction," said Mr. Najafi, who heads Phoenix-based Najafi Cos.

Mr. Najafi, whose Direct Brands unit owns Book of the Month Club, had been willing to relinquish the clause in his offer allowing him to liquidate Borders to appease creditors. But in exchange, he wanted large publishers to commit to shipping merchandise to Borders on normal terms that allowed bills to be paid later instead of right away. Mr. Najafi wanted those terms so he would have a level playing field with rivals such as Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

At least one publisher wouldn't budge, and Mr. Najafi declined to alter his terms. Borders then pivoted to naming liquidators the opening bidders in the chain's auction.

Separately, Gordon Brothers Group named a new chief executive, Gary Talarico. Mr. Talarico said in an email that he wouldn't rule out making a run at Borders's intellectual property—its brand name, website, and customer lists, among other things.

JLo, Anthony Lines Will Continue At Kohl's

2011-07-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

Wall Street Journal
By Karen Talley

Singer and actress Jennifer Lopez remains committed to launching a clothing line at Kohl's Corp. with husband Marc Anthony despite recently announced plans to divorce.

Mark Young, Ms. Lopez's publicist, said the Kohl's launch in September "will proceed as planned." Mr. Young called Ms. Lopez's line "distinctive" and said it represents style in an accessible way.

The star couple announced over the weekend plans to split after seven years of marriage, and retail-industry watchers said it is bad timing for the planned apparel rollout. Over the weekend, after the couple's announcement, Kohl's also said the launch would continue and that the lines can stand by themselves.

"The Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony brands have always been positioned as two separate, distinctive collections," a spokeswoman for Kohl's said.

The retailer calls the lines the largest launch of exclusive merchandise in the company's 49-year history. Kohl's has been talking up the lines and planning a big publicity push as the retailer looks for the brands to boost sales.

The lines will encompass virtually every merchandise category that Kohl's carries. The brands will be a move by the department-store chain to step up its so-called aspirational, or higher-quality, offerings.

The products, with Ms. Lopez taking a big hand in the women's offerings and Mr. Anthony involved in the men's, were expected to be promoted around their lifestyles and publicized together.

"These kinds of situations create consumer disappointment and disengagement with the celebrity," said Robert Passikoff, founder of Brands Keys, a brand-consulting firm. "Right now, Kohl's has to go through with it. They have made an investment in the merchandise and the licensing fees."

In good news for Kohl's in terms of the couple shooting for an amicable divorce, they have said they will go through with their Latin talent-search show. "The best thing [Kohl's] can do is sit very quietly and hope there is no more bad news about Marc or Jennifer," Mr. Passikoff said.

Brooklyn Lease Negotiations Continue For Walmart, Penney's

2011-07-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

Wall Street Journal
By Eliot Brown and Joseph De Avila

The Related Cos. is in advanced lease negotiations with Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and J.C. Penney Co. about anchoring a mall in southeast Brooklyn, according to people familiar with the matter.

Wal-Mart has long been considering the site overlooking the Belt Parkway just west of Howard Beach. But talks have intensified in recent months as the company has expanded a publicity campaign and taken steps to mollify potential critics, the people said.

The outlook for the 630,000-square-foot development—which would accomplish Wal-Mart's longtime goal of opening a location in the city—was boosted by J.C. Penney's strong interest. The combination of the two large stores would likely give the project sufficient financial viability to move forward despite the uncertainties that continue to cloud the slowly recovering economy.

J.C. Penney, which was based in Manhattan for about seven decades before moving to Texas, already has stores in all four other boroughs. But Wal-Mart doesn't, and its possible entry into the city has sparked strong opposition from labor unions, community groups and some elected officials.

Hurdles to Wal-Mart's beachhead remain. For starters, Related has yet to finalize a purchase of a portion of the site from the state, the price for which has come under criticism from Wal-Mart opponents.

But the project doesn't require further approval by the City Council, typically a major obstacle for developers. Given a 2009 rezoning, Related is free to build any big-box store on the site once it takes control.

Representatives for Wal-Mart, J.C. Penney and Related declined to comment on lease negotiations. "We still have not signed any leases anywhere in the city," Steven Restivo, a spokesman for Wal-Mart, said last week. "We continue to evaluate opportunities across the five boroughs."

Wal-Mart and J.C. Penney would take around 150,000 square feet each in the planned Gateway Center II mall, according a person familiar with discussions. The project would sit just north of Related's Gateway Center mall, which was completed in 2002 and houses a Target and a Best Buy.

Wal-Mart, which has unsuccessfully sought to break into the New York market in the past, has been investing considerable resources in an attempt to pave the way for an entrance over the objections of a powerful set of unions and elected officials.

Two labor groups, the United Food and Commercial Workers and the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union, have been particularly aggressive in combating Wal-Mart, which has long been opposed to a unionized work force. They are joined by elected officials including Council Speaker Christine Quinn and community groups worried about the giant discounter's impact on local merchants.

To counter the critics, Wal-Mart has launched a public-relations campaign to tout the retailer's virtues through fliers and newspaper and radio ads.

In the first four months of the year alone, Wal-Mart spent more than $1.7 million on consultants, most of which was directed at firms that do advertising and polling, according to lobbying records.

Earlier this month, the company announced a $4 million donation to a New York City job program at a news conference with Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Wal-Mart also recently signed up as a $150,000 sponsor for a summer concert series hosted by Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz that includes performances by such artists as Queen Latifah.

The sponsorship drew praise from Mr. Markowitz, who has been critical of Wal-Mart in the past. In a statement on Sunday, he said he isn't "philosophically" opposed to Wal-Mart, but declined to comment on Related's plans. He said he believes the retailer should pay "a fair wage" and allow workers to unionize.

The push seems to have created a sense of inevitability among many elected officials, particularly given that the company has said it only intends to take space in stores where City Council approval isn't necessary, making it difficult to block. Earlier this year, Wal-Mart also won some labor support by signing a five-year contract with the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York that guarantees that any of the company's store construction would be done with union labor.

Even Ms. Quinn, a vocal Wal-Mart critic, earlier this year offered to broker a deal between the company and the Hunts Point Terminal produce market. Under the deal, Wal-Mart would have committed to buying at least 5% of its produce from the market, although talks fizzled.

Aides to Ms. Quinn last week downplayed the potential deal and said Ms. Quinn hasn't changed her position on Wal-Mart and that she continues to oppose the company coming to New York.

Critics of the possible Wal-Mart Brooklyn development have recently stepped up efforts to block Related's purchase from the state of a 21-acre piece of the mall site. Related already controls the rest.

Last week, critics released a state memorandum from the Office of General Services that detailed how Related had renegotiated the purchase price for the state-owned land. The price was reduced in 2010 to $14.5 million from the $32.5 million it agreed to pay in 2009.

According to the memo, the price was changed partly because of an appraisal that showed a lower value for the site. Also, Related had been counting on at least $7.5 million in expected government incentives that proved unavailable. The mall is part of a larger 227-acre development that includes low-income housing, retail and parkland.

"The Gateway 2 development will expand on the enormously successful project that has already brought great economic benefits to this area," creating thousands of jobs, said Joanna Rose, a spokeswoman for Related, last week.

The land sale must be approved by state agencies and the state comptroller. A spokesman for the comptroller's office said last week that it hadn't yet received the proposal.

Topshop Adds "Dress Up" Line

2011-07-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

by Sharon Edelson
From WWD Issue 07/18/2011

Topshop’s new collection, Dress Up, should do well in its flagship in Las Vegas opening in March. It does, after all, feature sequins.

“Dress Up, is just that: very elaborate, embellished pieces in fine silks and satin with beading and sequins,” said Sir Philip Green, the owner of Arcadia Group, parent company of Topshop and its men’s counterpart, Topman. “It will probably do quite well in Las Vegas, where we’ll have a bigger assortment of ‘going out’ apparel. Dresses is one of our strongest areas and evening shoes is also one of our strongest sellers. We’ll buy deeper into those categories. ”

The flagship, which will have 180 feet of frontage, will cost $8 million to $10 million to build, Green said.

While Dress Up seems tailor-made for the Las Vegas unit, Green said “there was a hole in the market for all of our customers. When we were figuring out something new to introduce, [we found] there was something our customer was missing, a cocktail dress at a $120 price point or a long silk gown you could wear to a wedding for $350.”

Dress Up has several distinctly Vegas-like offerings such as a multicolored sequin dress with stars and geometric shapes and multicolored beaded fringes on the sleeves and hem; a strapless pink confection with tiny pleats, tiers of ruffles, black ribbon and overlapping seashell-shaped fabric on the bodice and a gold sequin dress with black leopard spots.

Green said lease negotiations are taking place at several locations simultaneously. “We’re still looking at something else in New York, as well as Los Angeles and Miami,” he said. Las Vegas’ economic difficulties haven’t given him much pause. “Every city’s been through a downturn,” he said. “There’s a lot of local people. There’s still sufficient people in the city.” Besides, the Las Vegas unit “is a fairly large store, but it’s not 100,000 square feet like the London flagship.”

Topshop, which opened a flagship in Manhattan’s SoHo in 2009, is learning what New Yorkers want. “They like to stay in fashion,” he said. “We’re not selling T-shirts and jeans. Trends is what they want to buy. We’ve got people on the ground in Las Vegas and Chicago. We’re doing our homework.”

A Topshop/Topman flagship at 830 North Michigan Avenue is scheduled to open on Sept. 7 or 8. “It would be nice to have Mrs. Obama as a customer,” Green said, but added that he’s made no outreach to her. “We’re definitely looking to do pop-up stores in Chicago and Las Vegas. It’s good for familiarizing customers with the brand. If you do it off-site, in an area that’s not near the store, you can reach a new customer base. We did one in the Hamptons on June 18 for customers that don’t necessarily make it to the [SoHo] store.”

The Chicago store will have two entrances, one on North Michigan Avenue and another on Pearson Street. About 100 exclusive pieces are being designed for the store, including two suits, one in black lace and the other in yellow and black.

The opening of a Toronto flagship is being slightly delayed until the second week in September due to building issues, Green said. Topshop/Topman recently opened a pop-up shop there, so Green wants to do something different, probably linked to the Toronto Film Festival, Sept. 7 to 18.

Topshop/Topman will be entering Brazil in February or March and Australia is also on tap. Green said he’s negotiating to open stores in Mexico. He’s also found a site for a new flagship in the U.K., near West Ham and the 2012 London Olympic Park. “It’s exciting to open in places where you’ve never operated before,” he said, “going into new territories, learning new things, learning about new markets.” Referring to Las Vegas, he added: “I’ve wanted somewhere else where I can stay up late.”

Mike Boylson Leaves Penney's

2011-07-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

by David Moin
From WWD Issue 07/18/2011

J.C. Penney Co. Inc.’s marketing team has experienced a string of departures, among them its top official, Mike Boylson, executive vice president and chief marketing officer.

Boylson’s exit has raised speculation that incoming chief executive officer Ron Johnson has already begun cleaning house at Penney’s. Johnson is expected to bring a lot of change to the business, just as he did at Apple, where as senior vice president of retail he orchestrated the brand’s fast-paced, innovative and highly productive retail strategy from its inception in 2001 to more than 300 stores currently in the U.S. and abroad.

Boylson left Penney’s at the beginning of July, though Penney’s did not announce his departure despite his stature and long history there. Boylson joined the retailer as a management trainee in 1978, rose up the ranks to store manager, district manager, vice president and director of marketing planning and promotions, and finally executive vice president in April 2003. He oversaw a huge, high-profile marketing program with an annual advertising budget estimated at around $1 billion.

Two other marketing executive also recently left Penney’s: Nick Bomersbach, vice president of marketing for jcpenney.com and a 10-year veteran of Penney’s, and Christine Laczai, director of digital marketing who has been with Penney’s for two years and previously worked with VF Corp.

In confirming Boylson’s departure Friday, Penney’s said it has begun a search for Boylson’s successor. “Mike Boylson informed J.C. Penney in early June of his intention to retire on July 1,” a Penney’s spokeswoman said. It’s expected that Penney’s will hold off on filling the other vacancies until a new executive vice president of marketing is determined. Bill Gentner, Penney’s senior vice president of marketing planning and promotions, is acting as interim chief marketing officer.

Johnson joins Penney’s board on Aug. 1. and becomes ceo in November but has already been getting his feet wet. He accompanied Penney’s current ceo and chairman, Myron E. “Mike” Ullman 3rd, to Hong Kong for the chain’s annual supplier summit, where key suppliers learn about the state of Penney’s business and long-range plans.

In addition to making organizational changes, Johnson is expected to drive Penney’s Web presence, introduce new products and get the Penney’s team to think differently. Penney’s close to $18 billion in sales last year is still under prerecession volumes, but the company has the potential for growth and for elevating its image to attract younger customers. Johnson was lured to Penney’s by the prospect of reinventing another slice of retail, just as he did with the technology sector, and by the opportunity to be the top gun at a multi-billion dollar corporation.

Target To Add Gwen Stefani Line

2011-07-18T13:32:00.000-07:00

by Sharon Edelson
From WWD Issue 07/18/2011

Target is partnering with Gwen Stefani to give babies, children and tweens an affordable taste of Stefani’s Japanese anime-inspired sensibility with Harajuku Mini. The brand, which will be introduced in Target stores and on target.com in November, with additional deliveries planned, is a takeoff of Stefani’s successful Harajuku Lovers young contemporary apparel and accessories collection and Harajuku Lovers fragrance.

Prices for the fashion-forward Harajuku Mini collection range from $3.99 to $29.99.

“Harajuku Mini is a dream come true,” said Stefani. “I’ve always wanted to do a cool children’s fashion line inspired by the supercute and playful kid’s clothing you find in Japan. The whole idea is about being creative, expressing your own individuality and having fun getting dressed. Target has given me the creative freedom to design kid’s clothing that is different than most anything you usually see out there with great quality, attention to detail and most of all, available at amazing prices.”

Stefani is a bona fide style influencer. Her upscale L.A.M.B. collection has been successful since its 2004 launch, according to retailers. She also designs accessories and footwear. The Harajuku Lovers fragrance quintet was considered a blockbuster when it bowed in 2008. And Stefani keeps her franchises fresh by developing new artwork and graphics. Harajuku Lovers has a sense of fun and whimsy with a Pop Art aesthetic.

“Gwen is a creative force and her ability to create fun, wearable fashion made her an ideal partner for Target,” said Trish Adams, senior vice president of apparel and accessories, Target.

Calypso St. Barth for Target, a limited-time collection that launched in May, offered apparel for babies and girls. Other collaborations for the younger set have included Petit Tresor for Target, Appaman for Target and Little Seed for Target. However, most of Target’s designer partnerships, including Rodarte, Zac Posen and Thakoon, have been in the juniors arena. “Our strategy of differentiation isn’t exclusive to our more mature guests,” said a Target spokesman. “We like to put the icing on the cake for all our guests. That is the fun, the flavoring of the assortment.”

Madonna/Lourdes Collection At Macy's Expands

2011-07-18T13:31:00.000-07:00

by David Lipke
From WWD Issue 07/18/2011

Macy's shoppers will be living in a bigger Material Girl world come fall.

Madonna, Iconix Brand Group Inc. and Macy’s, all partners in the juniors brand, are launching a range of new product categories, including beauty, intimates and sleepwear, and expanded programs in denim, outerwear and social dresses.

The first beauty offerings, which include nail polish, lip gloss, body sprays and lotions will be in Macy’s stores Aug. 15, with eye palettes arriving on Sept. 15. The intimates and sleepwear are hitting stores this week, the denim will be available on Aug. 15, social dresses Sept. 15 and outerwear on Oct. 15.

“It was so much fun getting to pick all of my favorite scents for the Material Girl body products and lip glosses,” said Lourdes “Lola” Leon, Madonna’s 14-year-old daughter who serves as a public face of the brand and helps oversee creative direction and design. “The body products have fun names like Wicked Watermelon, Flirty Fruit, Midnight Magnolia and Sinful Sugar. I chose scents that I loved.”

The move into new categories for Material Girl comes as Macy’s expands the brand’s footprint. Material Girl will be in 300 Macy’s doors this fall, up from 200 at its initial launch last August and 250 this past spring. As of July 2, there were 805 Macy’s stores in the U.S.

Macy’s declined to provide total sales figures for Material Girl, but Martine Reardon, executive vice-president of marketing and advertising, said the line was performing well. “If you walk onto the sales floor, you’ll see how prominent a positioning it has on our juniors floor. It is one of our top-five brands in juniors,” she noted. “We are focusing on this youth consumer with fast-fashion that is trend-right and extremely affordable.”

The Material Girl beauty products will retail from $7 to $12. Body washes, body lotions and body mists will come in six scents, the nail polish in 10 colors, and the lip gloss in 12 variations. Eye palettes will come in two variations, including “Soft & Pretty” and “Smoky and Sexy,” and include four eye shadows, a pencil, a dual-end applicator and mirror.

Some beauty items will also be placed near registers to encourage impulse buys. “We have brand-new fixtures to highlight the beauty products, as well as new accessories, within the Material Girl world,” said Reardon.

Intimates retail for $5 to $29 and include solid and polka dot pushup bras, bustiers, boyfriend briefs, rose-print lace panties and cupped cami bras. Sleepwear retails for $14 to $22 and includes tanks, tunics, sweatshirts, boxers and lounge pants.

“The woven waistbands on the underwear have the Material Girl logo on them, so there’s a status feel to them. Girls want to wear this brand and show it off now,” said Lanie List, chief merchandising officer at Iconix Brand Group. Taking a page from Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” and “Express Yourself” days, List expects Material Girl customers to wear some of the innerwear as fashion pieces.

While the brand sits on the juniors floor and has a soon-to-be high school sophomore at its creative helm, the core customer is 18 to 25 years old.

“Lola is 14 but she lives in New York City and has a very famous mom, so she has a very sophisticated eye,” explained List. “Lola is here once a month and sometimes more. She brings stuff from her own closet for inspiration. For the bath and body products she probably had 100 scents in front of her. She has a very mature approach to product development.”

Madonna is a less frequent visitor to Iconix headquarters in New York than her daughter, but she wields final say in much of the product, said List. “Madonna definitely has creative input also. It’s a collaboration between the two. If Lola goes to a place with an idea that Madonna doesn’t think is appropriate for the brand, she’ll veto it. She’s a branding expert,” said List.

While Material Girl already has some denim, outerwear and party dresses in its current merchandise assortments, for fall the brand will blow out those categories with full product assortments, as they have been key sales drivers in the collections. Outerwear will retail for $59.50 to $89.50 and includes cape coats and bomber jackets. Party dresses adorned with sequins, feathers, lace and beading will retail for $59 to $79. Denim, which will encompass 20 trend-driven styles, including faded flares, studded jeans, overdyed styles in vivid colors, acid-wash skinny jeans and suspender styles, will retail from $29.50 to $32.50.

Macy’s and Iconix are supporting the expansion of Material Girl this fall with an advertising campaign that features Kelly Osbourne for the second consecutive season. The fall media buy includes People StyleWatch, Nylon, Seventeen, Teen Vogue and Cosmopolitan, in addition to outdoor — including a Times Square billboard and the Macy’s Jumbotron in Herald Square — and online celebrity and fashion blogs.

Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony Lines At Kohl's Are Now In Question

2011-07-17T05:42:00.000-07:00

Probably not the first thing you were thinking of when you saw this in the tabloids....

Dow Jones Newswires

Big plans by Kohl's Corp. to roll out lines by Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony are in question now that the couple has announced they are divorcing.

The broad range of merchandise by Lopez for women and Anthony for men was called Kohl's biggest ever by Chief Executive Kevin Mansell in an interview with Dow Jones Newswires earlier this year.

The company gave a fall timeframe to begin the rollout. Kohl's and other department store chains are in a heated battle for market share. The merchandise is seen as a way for the midpriced department store to reach a younger, hipper customer.

Questions about the line arose Saturday as news circulated that Lopez and Anthony were ending their marriage after seven years. Spokespeople from Kohl's didn't respond to requests for comment. Mansell will likely discuss the matter when the company issues second-quarter results next month.

Corner Office -- Fostering a Culture of Dissent

2011-07-17T05:22:00.000-07:00

New York Times
By Adam Bryant
Published: July 16, 2011

David Sacks, the founder and chief of Yammer, says the democratic nature of a start-up should include ample room for employees to debate the direction and operation of the company.

Although The New York Times is charging for some of their content, readers coming through links from search engines, blogs and LinkedIn will be able to read any article without restriction.
Click here to read the entire article at www.nytimes.com:
Corner Office -- Fostering a Culture of Dissent

We’re Spent

2011-07-17T05:08:00.000-07:00

This is an excellent article, minus all of the drama and party politics of the typical economic debate. It points to the last decades's over-spending (fueled by easy credit and the illusion of wealth created by ever expanding home equity loans) as a key reason why the recovery is slow and fitful and (unfortunately) will continue to be.

New York Times
By David Leonhardt
Published: July 16, 2011

We are living through a tremendous bust. It isn’t simply a housing bust. It’s a fizzling of the great consumer bubble that was decades in the making.

Although The New York Times is charging for some of their content, readers coming through links from search engines, blogs and LinkedIn will be able to read any article without restriction.
Click here to read the entire article at www.nytimes.com:
We’re Spent

Fashion Industry Sees Huge Profits In Catering To Bigger Brides

2011-07-17T04:27:00.000-07:00

Hobbled by the economy, more and more wedding designers and retailers are finding it profitable to cater to large women, a market they once ignored

Bloomberg Businessweek
By Amy Odell

Crystal Parsons doesn’t try on clothes when she shops. She hasn’t worn a dress in 20 years. But one day this spring, she found herself in the unavoidable position of having to try on dresses because she needs a wedding gown. “I’ve had nightmares that I’m going to get stuck in a very expensive dress,” Parsons says in the fitting room at Kleinfeld bridal salon in New York. She’s filming an episode of TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress: Big Bliss, which documents plus-size women in the once-demoralizing hunt for the perfect wedding gown. “I tend to think negatively about myself,” she says. “My weight has always been my problem.”

While the average clothing size of women in the U.S. is 14, most high-end bridal designers have long refused to cater to clients beyond size 16. Yet with the economy pressuring the industry to find new revenue streams, a growing number of designers are now trying to fill a gaping hole in the country’s $2.1 billion wedding dress market. “These are underserved consumers who have money to spend,” says Catherine Moellering, executive vice-president of retail trend consultant Tobe. “There’s an immense opportunity here to develop brand loyalty because these are marginalized consumers.”

Kleinfeld, the wedding dress mecca, has already quadrupled its plus-size selection since first appearing on Big Bliss two seasons ago. Now, more than 10 percent of gowns sold at the boutique—where the average wedding dress runs about $4,500—are size 12 or larger. J. Crew, whose wedding dresses cost as much as $3,000, will unveil plus-size bridal gowns (up to size 20) in its fall 2011 collection. The phenomenon has even reached the rarefied realm of high fashion. Over the past year designer Reem Acra has doubled her made-to-order wedding dress business by going where few couturiers had before—size 16 and beyond. “Today I got an order of 18 [custom] wedding dresses,” Acra says. “They were all size 16.” Her made-to-order dresses begin at $30,000.

A key part of the big bride pioneers’ success is that they remain outliers. Randy Fenoli, the fashion director at Kleinfeld and a self-proclaimed champion of plus-size brides, routinely has difficulty trying to get designers to go full figure—in many instances for reasons pertaining to vanity. “Some designers are like, ‘I don’t think my dresses are going to look good on a size 30 girl.’ ” That refrain sounds familiar to Vogue’s European Editor-at-Large Hamish Bowles. “I certainly think there are designers who might not see that as their ideal,” he says.

Then there are practical concerns. Because larger women carry varying amounts of weight in different areas—the bust, the waist, the hips—it’s hard to standardize sizes above 14. Acra concedes that upping her dress sizes to 32 required “a lot of effort to figure out the styles and the fit.” But Acra, who hired a consultant to help with the process, maintains that designing a plus-size gown isn’t much different from creating an ordinary one. It’s a realization others have had, too. “I think a lot of designers pragmatically understand that this is a very significant market,” says Bowles. “And I think you’d be surprised at the level of high-end designers who cater to plus-size women, as they should.”

Elise Rosenblum, a bridal industry veteran whose résumé includes Saks (SKS), Kleinfeld, and Acra, agrees. “This isn’t about designers saying, ‘I don’t want to make a dress in a size 20,’ ” she says. “They’ll do anything. You just have to be willing to pay for it.” The retailer, however, “really has to make a commitment. Then [designers] have to literally do an entire collection”—which some view as a financial risk. When Rosenblum began managing New York’s Pronovias bridal boutique in 2009, she was greeted with resistance from her bosses. When she finally persuaded them to begin stocking plus-size samples, the store began “to see that we were starting to sell as many 18s as we were 12s.”

Rosenblum is thrilled Acra has begun doing the same. “Finally, finally, finally—that was my biggest cry when I was there. It was a horrible shopping experience, especially for a girl who was a size 16 or 18.” Yukia Walker—age 33, size 20—went through that horror when she was shopping for her dress four years ago. With a $3,000 budget, Walker couldn’t find an upscale gown in her size anywhere. “I was ready to fly to several locations,” she says. “I ended up with this gown that I couldn’t stand.”

The frustration eventually inspired Walker to open her own bridal salon dedicated to the healthy buxom set. Curvaceous Couture, which she opened in the basement of her Columbia (Md.) home in 2009, specializes in gowns ranging from size 12 to 32 and priced from $1,000 to $25,000. As word spread, Walker began seeing clients from New York, Virginia, South Carolina, and the Caribbean. “If people are so fed up that they’re willing to come to someone’s basement, it’s a testament to how difficult this industry is and how embarrassing this situation is,” Walker says. Curvaceous Couture has since upgraded to a 5,000-square-foot showroom that serves 15 to 20 brides-to-be on a typical day, with a 92 percent sale rate on first-time visits. Walker is scouting for a second location.

The skinny establishment is trying to adjust. Madison Avenue bridal salon Amsale, subject of the WE reality series Amsale Girls, a rival to Say Yes to the Dress, says it makes gowns for women of any size. But of the 100-plus samples in the store, none are plus size. Instead, “if the girl doesn’t fit the sample, we have different devices to hold together a dress that doesn’t zip all the way up,” says Amsale Chief Executive Neil Harris. He and the label’s designer, Amsale Aberra, maintain that these “devices” do not threaten sales to plus-size clients. “I’m not aware of plus-size brides finding it particularly difficult here,” Aberra says.

Amsale, however, isn’t the only outfit that gets a bit touchy when it’s newest customers are mentioned. Upscale wedding boutique Priscilla of Boston, which carries dresses up to size 20, “respectfully declined” to comment. Repeated calls to fashion house Badgley Mischka went unanswered. J. Crew would not speak on the record, and Vera Wang, the wedding empress who makes plus-size gowns for David’s Bridal but not her main line, was mum. Still, the main selling point for brides, no matter their size, hasn’t changed. Rosenblum, who sees brides from all over the world, says each has the same demand every time: “Make me look thin!”

Couple Sees Jesus In Walmart Receipt

2011-07-16T03:49:00.000-07:00

Anderson County Couple Says Image On Receipt Is Jesus

WYFF4 in Greenville, SC

An engaged couple in Anderson County said a shadowy image that turned up on a reciept from Walmart looks like the face of Jesus.

Jacob Simmons and his fiancee, Gentry Lee Sutherland, said they bought some pictures from Walmart on Sunday, June 12.

Simmons said when he spotted the receipt on the floor of Sutherland's apartment the following Wednesday, it had changed.

"I was leaving the kitchen and I just looked on the floor, and it was like it was looking at me," Simmons said.

A dark gray mark on the receipt seems to show two eyes, a nose and a mouth in a thickly bearded face.

"Then the more you look at it, the more it looked like Jesus, and it was just shocking, breathtaking," Simmons said.

The couple said they had just come from a church service when they saw the image.

"We had a message on knowing God, abiding in him," Sutherland said. "(The preacher asked) 'If you know God, would you recognize him if you saw him?'"

Simmons said he called the store to ask what could have made the mark.

"They said the only way you could really get it black was to put heat on it," Simmons said.

"We just feel like it's a blessing that God showed it to us and opened our eyes and we just feel like we should share the blessing God gave to us to everybody else," Sutherland said.

The couple denied tampering with the paper to make the face appear.

Justin Bieber's "Someday" On Track To Become Best-Selling Fragrance Ever!

2011-07-16T03:24:00.000-07:00

New York Daily News
By Lindsay Goldwert

What does success smell like? Justin Bieber's Someday for women, of course.

The teen pop star's scent has raked in $3.7 million in sales at Macy's Herald Square in just three weeks following his frenzied appearance in New York City.

If teens and fans keep buying, the fragrance is projected to be the best seller of 2011 and, in fact, is headed toward the top spot among best-selling scents of all time.

"We haven't seen anything like this since Jennifer Lopez's Glow and Britney Spears' Curious," industry analyst Karen Grant told Women's Wear Daily, further noting that "Bieber's scent just blew them away".

The fruity scent has stomped sales of previous champ Beyonce Knowles, whose scent ‘Heat' made Macy's $2.3 million in sales in its first month.

"Justin Bieber's Someday fragrance, propelled by Justin's incredible personal appearance at Macy's Herald Square has resonated with our customers and has become the biggest celebrity fragrance launch on record," said Terry Lundgren, president and chairman of Macy's Inc. Lundgren also admitted to being a big fan of Bieber's music: "When I'm not enjoying Selena Gomez, I always have 'Baby' and 'Never Let You Go' playing on my iPod!"

The 17 year-old sensation had to be protected from crazed fans when he made his fateful June 24 appearance at the midtown department store.

Uniglo Promises 2011 Turnaround

2011-07-16T02:35:00.000-07:00

Wall Street Journal
By Hiroyuki Kachi

Fast Retailing Co. said Thursday its net profit for the fiscal third quarter edged lower, but it expects earnings growth in Japan at its Uniqlo stores, underscoring the company's resilience after the March 11 disasters.

The operator of the popular clothing chain, typically one of the few vibrant performers in the stagnant Japanese retail sector, said strong demand for summer clothing due to a recent heat wave is likely to give it momentum for the year.

"Uniqlo's business in Japan will end up with gains in both revenue and profits in the latter half," Nobuo Domae, the company's group executive vice president, said at a news conference. "Our same-store sales have entered a growth track."

The company reported net profit of ¥11.7 billion ($148 million) for the three months to May, compared with ¥11.8 billion in the same period a year ago. Revenue rose 3.5% to ¥194.6 billion from ¥188.0 billion a year earlier, partly because of strong overseas sales, while operating profit declined 4.6% to ¥22.5 billion from ¥23.6 billion.

The earthquake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear crisis caused temporary closures at many of the company's stores in the affected regions, leading to a steep 10.5% fall in Uniqlo domestic same-store sales in March. The company also said low temperatures in the quarter forced it to discount its spring clothing, which ate into its margins.

But despite the challenging business environment, the company's quarterly results were still much stronger compared to the first half through February, when it reported a 25% fall in net profit due to unseasonably warm weather.

The improved performance suggests the company's decision to concentrate on more popular product lines is starting to bear fruit.

In addition to already popular quick dry inner products, the company has been supplementing its lineup of polo shirts and chino slacks in anticipation of strong demand associated with the government-led "Super Cool Biz" campaign. Office workers are encouraged to wear casual clothing to reduce electricity use amid expectations of power shortages this summer.

Fast Retailing's net profit for the nine-month period ended May fell 21% from a year earlier to ¥53.40 billion. But the company kept intact its outlook for the full fiscal year ending August, announced three months ago. The company forecast a 2.7% decline in net profit to ¥60 billion, an 8.2% drop in operating profit to ¥121.5 billion and a 2.6% rise in revenue to ¥836 billion.

In another encouraging sign for the rest of the business year, the company said earlier this month that its store sales in June grew 3.9% from a year earlier, as hot weather buoyed demand for summer clothing.

Asked about the yen's recent strength, Mr. Domae said the company expects no immediate impact on its earnings even with the dollar at near record-lows around ¥79, as the company had already signed forward currency contracts for goods transactions.

He also said the company isn't considering speeding up its M&A activities solely due to the yen's strength.

Fast Retailing's earnings are based on Japanese accounting standards.

The Key To Loyal Customers -- The UPOD Factor

2011-07-16T02:19:00.000-07:00

Exceeding expectations is the key. The secret? Don't improve your performance -- lower the expectations!

Wall Street Journal
By Mike Michalowicz

Do you want satisfied customers or do you want customers who are so thrilled with your company they become loyal, raving fans? I'll take option No.2. Satisfied customers may come back a second or third time; they may even become regulars. But unless you exceed expectations, your satisfied customers could just as easily become your competitors' satisfied customers.

If you want customers who are so loyal that they would never think of going to anyone else, and if you want customers who are so thrilled with your business that they tell everyone how amazing you are, then you're going to have to move the goal line beyond mere "satisfaction." You're going to have to wow everyone who walks through your door.

Now, I'm sure you could come up with loads of ideas that would dazzle your customers, but there's actually a simple shortcut to knocking their socks off every single time – and it won't cost you a dime. It's the "under-promise, over-deliver" (UPOD) method.

It is also known as the "Costco Customer Service Conundrum" -- the theory as to why Costco, who's business model provides virtually no service at all, is consistently given the highest marks of any retailer in the US in providing outstanding customer service.

When we talk about "customer satisfaction," we strive to deliver on our promises. Complete the market study by Friday, as promised. Deliver the new couch in July, as promised. Provide two valet attendants, as promised. When you do exactly as you said you would, you end up with satisfied customers. But when you give them something more than they expect -- faster service, extra help, more options, early delivery and so on -- you end up with the loyal, raving fans you need to propel your business into the stratosphere.

The idea behind UPOD is that people are most favorably influenced by great service they don't expect, rather than great service they do expect. And they expect it because you promise it. If you tell customers they will get their new shoes the next day, and the shoes arrive the next day, those customers will be satisfied, maybe even happy. But if you tell customers they will get their new shoes in five days, and the footwear arrives the next day, your customers will be amazed and thrilled.

Here's the trick with UPOD: It's not about doing things faster or throwing in "extras." It's about building the "under-promise" part into the equation from the start. If Friday is the earliest you can complete a study, then promise to have it done the following Wednesday. "Surprise! We finished early." If you know you will deliver a couch in July, promise to have it there by August. "Great news! We wanted you to have it as soon as possible!" Build a business model in which you have enough income to cover three valet attendants, promise two, and the day of the party, send over three. "We just thought you could use the extra help. No extra charge."

Most businesses know UPOD is a good practice, but few adhere to it because people think they have to change their operation to wow customers. Just take this very simple shortcut: Change your promise.

Using UPOD will also help you avoid mistakes that inevitably occur when people rush to meet deadlines. It will enable you to respond positively to last-minute requests and help you stay calm, cool and collected as you work surprisingly reasonable hours. Most importantly, when you under-promise and over-deliver, you will inspire satisfied customers to become devoted customers – and that's money in the bank.

Patterned Trousers -- Are You Man Enough?

2011-07-16T02:03:00.000-07:00

From flamboyant palm fronds to eye-popping polka dots, patterned trousers in a kaleidoscope of colors are all the rage. Are you man enough to wear them?

Wall Street Journal
By Steve Garbarino

Last month, something crazy happened during the men's spring 2012 collections, first in Milan, then in Paris. On the runway, menswear designers went all-out bonkers over one bright idea: wildly patterned pants.

Even from the cheap seats, you couldn't miss the visual slacks attack. Like Glenn Close, they would not be ignored. Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace and Alexander McQueen, to name a few, all had over-the-top pattern parties on their pants—a psychedelic safari of flora, stripes and dots.

There was tie-dye at Bottega Veneta, vibrant birds-of-paradise prints at Givenchy, Big-Top stripes at Dries Van Noten and polkas, plaids and paisleys at Etro. Moschino was wild for palm fronds and hibiscus prints. Gaultier's moody-luau prints also packed Hawaiian punch. Agnès B. had full suits covered in zigzags and wave-like swirls of turquoise and brown. And then there were Miuccia Prada's Lilly Pulitzer-on-crack slacks, which models wore while wheeling golf bags down the runway.

These retro-leaning pants have many names—some unprintable, all as colorful as the designs themselves. "Go-to-Hell Pants," "Don't-Give-a-Damn Pants" and "Party-Crashing Pants" are just a few.

Inspired by a sense of confidence, caprice, escapism and even entitlement—born from both country club and rock 'n' roll traditions—crazy pants say: Go ahead, make a spectacle of yourself.

"I think it was just very chic, happy!" said Agnès B. designer Agnes Troublé of her Paris-by-way-of-Africa prints. "I think of my friend Johnny Pigozzi," a colorful art collector and owner of the menswear line LimoLand. "He is always daring to wear the craziest pants he can find!"

But not all are amused by the cocksure look. Following his own spring collection of muted summer suits, Giorgio Armani, now 77, criticized both Dolce & Gabbana and Prada's collections, saying they made men look ridiculous and were unwearable, according to the fashion trade rag Women's Wear Daily.

Prada's show notes defined the scrutinized look as being "relaxed, fun and young," with "the world of golf" serving as "the thread of inspiration that unites classical English elements and exaggerated over-the-top details typical of the American imagination." Other inspirations came from '60s Palm Beach flower prints and English necktie motifs from the '70s.

After Mr. Armani's comments, the gossip mill went into overdrive, with industry insiders calling him a party pooper. Style blogs and the fashion trades chronicled the resulting snipe-fest for weeks.

Truth is, Mr. Armani has a point. Party pants aren't for everyone. And not everyone can pull them off. But that's the idea. They are designed to make their fearless arbiters stand out in any crowd, and if you can't take that kind of heat, perhaps the look is not for you.

While the peacock-y style was adopted by jet-setting British rock stars of the louche '60s and '70s, the origins of crazy pants are conservative and upper class by nature.

Born out of the cultivated-depraved cocktail culture of East Coast summer communities like Newport, R.I., and Locust Valley, N.Y., along with resort spots like Palm Springs and Palm Beach in the '50s, proudly-loud pants became a part of the well-to-do's (and not-much-to-do's) social fabric. The originators were mostly unknowns, big fish in small ponds, "pieces of work," kings of their lawn parties, golf courses and country-club socials. And although there were also notable advocates—Peter Lawford, George Hamilton, Keith Richards, Ken Kesey—party-pant wearers shared one thing in common: They owned any room they entered. (A fact that had almost nothing to do with what they were wearing.)

Today, the personality profile of crazy-trouser advocates is just the same. "Girls love crazy pants, but they really piss off guys…which is why I love them so much," said Paul Sevigny, a celebrity deejay and Manhattan bistro owner who grew up in preppy Darien, Conn. "I call them 'f—-you pants,' " he said. "But in Dallas, a pair got this group of middle-age men all riled up," he said. "You don't expect a 55-year-old man to be angry about some other dude's trousers." And, he added, "Jersey Shore guys really get worked up" when he wears, say, his Paul Stuart Italian-madras slacks. "In these situations, a full-frontal confrontation works best," said Mr. Sevigny. "Why are you looking at my crotch, anyway?"

Mr. Sevigny, who is 40, said there are distinctions as to what defines truly crazy pants. "I want to make it clear that Nantucket Reds are not f—-you pants. Nor are corduroys with whales on them." True crazy pants come in "colors that can't be ignored from across a room. They're not for the meek. You have to wear them with confidence. And you have to take them off the golf course and onto the street."

Patterned-pant enthusiasts advise that when sporting them, all other accessories must be understated. Will Cotton, a 46-year-old New York artist—whose favorite crazy pants are horizontally striped red, blue, yellow and white ones by Patrik Ervell—said he typically pairs his loud trousers with a simple white shirt and woven-straw sandals. "I've had limited success with patterns on patterns," he said. It's also wise to not be too precious or over-groomed. Skip a day's shave, and accessorize them with summer soles like loafers, boat shoes, white sneaks or flip-flops. Or rock them with a vintage concert T-shirt (a faded black Rolling Stones lips logo will do).

Alan Flusser, author of "Style and the Man," chronicled the advent of the crazy pant long before it hit the runways, asserting that the look developed out of idle-rich "boredom." "If 'Bill' wore a crazy jacket to the club the week before, his friends would try to find something equally irritating to wear the next go-round. It was a blue-blooded, mano-a-mano parlor game, a sartorial one-upmanship that the stylish button-downers would engage in," Mr. Flusser said. "Outsiders might wince, while insiders smiled."

Catching Counterfeiters, a Real Cat-and-Mouse Game

2011-07-16T01:19:00.000-07:00

New York Times
By Michael Wilson
Published: July 15, 2011

The police are continuing their efforts to stop the sellers of imitation handbags in Chinatown.

Although The New York Times is charging for some of their content, readers coming through links from search engines, blogs and LinkedIn will be able to read any article without restriction.
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Catching Counterfeiters, a Real Cat-and-Mouse Game

Smartphones Look Like A Smart Bet To Be The Future Way To Pay For Everything

2011-07-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

Bloomberg Businessweek
By Brad Stone and Olga Kharif

Osama Bedier is about to buy a pair of scandalously skimpy size 4 denim cutoff shorts from American Eagle Outfitters. The beefy, Egyptian-born vice-president at Google and former bouncer at the Roxbury night club in Los Angeles—is buying the $25 Daisy Dukes to demonstrate a novel way of paying in stores and restaurants: with a cellphone. As about 200 bankers, credit-card executives, journalists, and Googlers watch at the company’s New York building in late May, Bedier waves his Nexus S smartphone in front of a credit-card reader. The device beeps in response, and three things happen at once: The phone submits a $5 store coupon, his Citibank MasterCard account is charged $20 for the shorts, and his loyalty card with the retailer, also stored on the phone, is credited with the purchase. “And that’s how simple it is,” says Bedier, awkwardly holding a brown paper bag with the short-shorts, which he vows to give to his daughter. “We call that single tap.”

Sixty years after the creation of the plastic credit card, big corporate names are backing a new wave of payments technology—a tap with a phone, rather than a swipe with a credit card. Pretty much every major bank, credit-card company, wireless network operator, and a good number of Silicon Valley players are exploring the cellphone as the next ubiquitous way to spend money. Efforts such as Google’s fledgling service, Google Wallet, which begins trials this summer in New York and San Francisco, are the culmination of a decade of arduous technology development and a multiparty, cross-industry battle over who will control the $20.5 trillion global market for in-store retail transactions. Also pushing their own digital wallets are, among others, Visa, American Express), EBay’s PayPal division, and Isis, a venture of three large U.S. mobile phone carriers.

Should this technology take off, the cellphone could become the central repository of not just bank account information but coupons, loyalty points, and membership cards, allowing companies such as Google to route deals to cellphones at just the right time and place. “Ten years from now, a major portion of marketing is going to go through this personalized media channel,” says Mohammad Khan, who worked at credit-card terminal vendor VeriFone before starting what is now a rival, ViVOtech.

If technologists such as Khan sound overconfident, it might be because they’re compensating for the fact that futuristic visions about new ways to pay have so rarely come true. Among the fields where humans have vigorously innovated throughout history, payments pretty much ranks near the bottom, well behind food cultivation, transportation, and online dating. There have been only a few major breakthroughs: the switch from barter to non-precious metal coins in Egypt around 700 BC, the move to paper money in China in 960 AD, and then to checks in the 12th century, courtesy of the Venetians. Credit cards, which emerged in the early 1950s first as dining cards in Manhattan before spreading more widely in the ’60s, introduced the era of electronic money and the idea of buying a completely unaffordable item and paying for it later.

There have been some important, if relatively incremental, innovations since then. Smart cards with microchips, which you can tap at “contactless” credit-card terminals (no swipe needed) in some 300,000 locations around the world, have been widely embraced in Europe and Canada—and largely ignored by most U.S. consumers, who remain committed to a swipe and ensuing signature. PayPal, with 100 million active customer accounts, has caught on as a way for people to send money to each other and pay for items, primarily online. Companies such as Boku and Zong, recently acquired by EBay, have developed ways for shoppers to purchase items by charging them to their cellphone bill.

For any new approach to really catch on, it has to offer some compelling advantage. “If there’s not a significant improvement from the past, either in convenience or in some form of monetary value to the merchant or consumer, payment technologies generally don’t catch on,” says Chetan Sharma, a mobile industry consultant. “There has to be something different about a new technology that makes life better.”

Much of the mobile payments activity centers on a technology called near field communication, or NFC. Apart from being another maddening wireless industry acronym to remember, an NFC chip built into the phone (or added to it via a microSD slot or a carrying case) communicates with a credit-card terminal over a distance of less than two inches. It’s a big upgrade over the magnetic stripe on a plastic card—a format invented in 1960 and now easily feasted on by card cloners and other fraudsters.

Nearly every phone manufacturer, including Nokia, Samsung, and Research In Motion, says it plans to pack its handsets with these NFC chipsets, which in 2011 should cost $2.13 on average, down from $2.57 in 2009, according to ABI Research. Apple has stayed characteristically quiet about its NFC plans, but competitors say Apple is talking with almost every NFC startup—there are a lot of them—exploring whether it should build or buy the necessary technology. Analysts such as Richard Doherty of Envisioneering Group believe Apple will include NFC chips in an upcoming version of the iPhone, likely next year. Since 2008, Apple has applied for 36 patents that involve NFC, including one that describes a way to turn NFC-equipped iPhones and iPads into cashier terminals, and another that involves allowing Apple devices within close proximity to quickly and easily share files with each other.

NFC “is going to come, it’s just a matter of when,” says Mark Beccue, a senior analyst at ABI, which forecasts that the number of NFC-equipped phones worldwide will skyrocket, from fewer than 6 million in 2010 to 172 million by 2013. “The ecosystem is starting to come together,” says Bill Gajda, head of mobile products at Visa. “We are going to create a new payment and commerce experience.”

Digital wallets may seem like a solution in search of a problem. After all, withdrawing a credit card or a few dollars from an actual wallet is hardly the most taxing chore. But banks, wireless carriers, and phone makers have a lot of reasons to nudge the smartphone into the center of the payment universe. The companies backing NFC claim it will make financial transactions more secure and get lines at stores moving more quickly. They really start to salivate at the potential marketing bonanza. Companies developing these services plan on packing loyalty cards, coupon folders, and Groupon-like deal-of-the-day offers right into the digital wallet. Retailers could build comprehensive profiles of their customers, targeting them with additional discounts and come-ons at the checkout terminal or when they’re out and about, in pretty much the same way Amazon (AMZN) and other online retailers track shoppers as they browse the Web.

Eric Schmidt, executive chairman of Google—and not, apparently, an especially savvy clothes shopper—described the opportunity this way. “You’re walking down the street,” he said at a mobile conference earlier this year. “You’re confused like I am typically, and your phone remembers that you need new pants or some other product. It knows there’s a store ahead of me, on the left and on the right. It knows one is going to offer me a 20 percent discount, the other a 30 percent discount. It shows me the two offers, and being a cheapskate I always take the biggest discount. I walk into the store, the store knows I’m coming, the pants are ready. I go, boom, and I’m out of the store.” More than likely—Google says the details are still in flux—the merchant will pay a fat commission to the search giant or whoever else greased the deal.

There’s plenty that could go wrong with this mobile vision. While phones may be safer than plastic, they come with their own security challenges: They are susceptible to malware (and certain British tabloid journalists) although some NFC chips are designed to self-destruct if they’re tampered with. Funneling purchases through the phone will also allow Google and its rivals to greatly expand their data collection abilities, a chilling prospect for privacy advocates.

The biggest problem confronting NFC is practical: It may require new phones as well as new point-of-sale terminals, plus software that serves up targeted offers. It’s the mother of all chicken-and-egg scenarios, what economists call a multisided platform problem. Merchants don’t want to upgrade their terminals if there aren’t new payment-enabled phones, and consumers have no reason to buy NFC phones if there aren’t many places to use them.

Overcoming those hurdles is partly why the high-tech and financial industries are whipping up so much hype about NFC; they are, in effect, trying to bluff the world that the bold new age of mobile payments is inevitable. “Publicity and hype have a role to play here, to encourage both sides, the chicken and the egg, that there are some real heavyweights behind this technology,” says Douglas G. Bergeron, chief executive of VeriFone, which sells the majority of credit-card terminals to U.S. retailers—and has had a prime seat at the tortured, decade-long gestation period of NFC.

Near field communication was born in the early 2000s, through an unusual partnership between Sony and Philips Electronics. Long before the onset of smartphones, both companies had outfitted plain old plastic cards with microchips to communicate using radio waves over short distances with stationary terminals. Back then, Sony’s FeliCa smart cards were becoming widely used in train stations and convenience stores in Japan and Hong Kong, and the company was starting to bring the technology into mobile phones. Philips’s popular MIFARE smart cards, designed by its then-subsidiary, NXP Semiconductors, were being embraced by dozens of regional public transportation systems, including those in Moscow, Seoul, and Kuala Lumpur.

Both companies wanted to ditch the plastic and work this technology into all consumer devices but realized they alone couldn’t persuade the world’s electronics manufacturers to back a proprietary platform. They found another partner in Nokia, whose researchers were exploring ways phones could interact with inanimate objects. They had toyed with the idea of distributing cheap radio tags that could convey snippets of information to cellphones held close by (e.g., put a tag on a photo of grandma; tap the tag with your phone, and it dials her). “To really make it big, and to drive into the market, would require a standards organization,” says Gerhard Romen, director of mobile financial services at Nokia and one of the primary figures in the development of the NFC Forum, which was officially born in March of 2004.

The forum’s founders had high hopes for the quick adoption of NFC in cellphones. Within a year, 20 other companies had signed up, including Microsoft, Samsung, MasterCard, and Visa. The dirty work of setting up technical specifications took a few more years. A radio chip built into phones would operate at a 13.56 MHz frequency and work like the RFID chips used in E-ZPass toll-road systems. A second chip with the somewhat cinematic descriptor “the secure element” was designed to work in tandem with the radio chip, but keep the customer’s personal info and payment data safe and encrypted.

Early test runs of the technology didn’t amount to much. In 2004, Nokia released it first NFC-equipped phone, the 5140, an otherwise undistinguished device. In a mobile-payments trial in 2007, Wells Fargo (WFC) gave 50 employees Nokia handsets. After calling an 800 number to activate the payment service, trial participants had to download and run separate applications for each credit card they wanted to use. Participants found that a phone tap was no better than a card swipe. They often left their Nokia phones in the office, and even when they did remember to bring along their test gadgets, they wouldn’t go out of their way to find a merchant whose terminal could accept a contactless payment. The fact that the wireless network Wells Fargo was using for the trial crashed for an entire week probably didn’t help.

At around the same time, fissures were beginning to appear among the NFC Forum’s partners. If phones were to be used for payments, there would be a lucrative opportunity to collect fees associated with these transactions. Cellphone carriers such as AT&T Mobility (T), which joined the NFC Forum in 2007, buy phones from manufacturers and resell them at a subsidized price to consumers. The carriers argued that they should profit from mobile payments, putting them on a collision course with banks and credit-card companies that wanted to protect their turf. In early 2007 a wireless carrier trade group stated that it would embrace NFC only if the carriers got to manage payment transactions and if the secure element sat on the SIM card, which they controlled. “We kind of reached an impasse,” says Dom Morea, a senior vice-president at First Data, the country’s largest processor of payment transactions. NFC-equipped phones trickled out over the next few years, but they didn’t get much attention.

Two engineers at Google, Rob von Behren and Jonathan Wall, believed in the potential of the smartphone to break this impasse. In 2009 the two were examining mobile payments using their free “20 percent” time, the company’s famous practice of allowing employees to spend a fifth of their time on the project of their choice. “We saw that tons of people had tried doing mobile payments,” says von Behren, who left a computer science graduate program at University of California at Berkeley after he joined Google in 2004. “But the best they could do with a flip-phone is to turn it into a really thick plastic card.” The iPhone was then just two years old, and the pair wondered if such a device, with its rich user interface and voluminous storage, could also be used to collate receipts, track corporate expenses, and earn loyalty points—and whether that was the key to finally making the mobile phone a compelling tool for in-person payments.

Von Behren and Wall successfully pitched their idea of a digital wallet to Google’s mobile executives and got a green light to develop the concept, but the company didn’t have a logical place to tuck their project. The pair ended up in something of a corporate ghetto—Google Research, a think tank whose long-term pursuits include developing machine translation and artificial intelligence.

Stephanie Tilenius rescued them. A former senior vice-president of EBay and PayPal, Tilenius joined Google at the beginning of 2010 as vice-president for commerce. In one of her first moves, she sent an e-mail to co-founder Larry Page arguing that the company should aggressively enter the market for online purchases via a cellphone. She was quickly routed to von Behren and Wall, and the trio hit it off, agreeing that Google’s open Android operating system gave it a unique opportunity to back the NFC standard and drag the messy network of payment players along with it. Tilenius met with Andy Rubin, Google’s senior vice-president of mobile, and found that the Android group was already planning to embed an NFC chip in the upcoming Nexus S.

At the May 26 press conference at Google’s Chelsea headquarters in New York City, the group, now part of Google’s commerce unit, unveiled its plans for “a new era in commerce.” Google Wallet is designed to let smartphone users tap their phones against credit-card terminals at the nation’s largest retailers—Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Walgreens, Foot Locker, and Peet’s Coffee, among others, have already signed up to honor Google Wallet. Shoppers will also be able to collect Groupon-style daily deals, called Google Offers, meant to spur additional purchases. Citibank, MasterCard, and First Data, the payments processor, are also on board with Google Wallet.

In true Google fashion, the company professes a certain degree of selflessness while positioning itself to profit wildly if its wallet service takes off. Instead of Google taking a cut of the purchase, credit-card issuers such as Citibank will handle the transactions, as they normally do. Google will get paid by sending ads to the phone and when users take advantage of a coupon at a nearby restaurant, for example. Google and its primary partners are also trying to sweeten the deal for retailers by subsidizing their installation of contactless terminals and the software to deliver targeted deals—upgrades that analysts believe could cost hundreds of dollars per terminal.

Tilenius declined to divulge the extent of the subsidy and who has received it, but Bergeron of VeriFone says: “It’s kind of like stimulus spending. Their hope is that they can stimulate the market in the beginning, as a temporary measure to help it gain mass appeal.”

As Google Wallet moves into trials, it will have severe limitations, at least at first. Only owners of the Nexus S smartphone running on Sprint’s (S) new 4G network will be able to program their phones with a Citibank MasterCard (if they have one) or with a Google prepaid debit card, to which they can transfer money using other cards. Then they can use their phone to pay at any of the 24 nationwide retailers. Tilenius says Google is talking to other Android phone manufacturers, banks, and retailers and is convinced they will also embrace the service. (Tilenius also faces a more direct challenge: EBay has sued her, Osama Bedier, and Google, claiming the two former PayPal execs misappropriated its trade secrets when they joined Google. A Google spokesman declined to comment on the suit.)

Another serious test will be persuading wireless networks other than Sprint, the nation’s third-largest carrier, to sell NFC-equipped Android phones. Last fall, AT&T Mobility, T-Mobile USA, and Verizon Wireless banded together to form a venture called Isis to create their own digital wallet in conjunction with Discover Financial Services. Their original plan was to create a payment network that would compete with MasterCard and Visa, with the carriers collecting fees on every transaction (the plan even called for Isis to distribute plastic credit cards to customers as a backup for their phones).

Merchants reacted coolly to the idea, and after the Durbin Amendment to the Consumer Protection Act of 2010 set the stage for a cap on credit- and debit-card fees, Isis scaled back its plans. The coalition now says that, like Google, it will try to lure other banks and card companies to its wallet without taking a cut of their transaction revenue. Also like Google, it’s exploring ways to make money on coupons and ads and could work with deal companies such as Groupon, says Ryan Hughes, Isis’s chief marketing officer. “These are three companies that are not afraid to spend money to build a brand,” he says of Isis’s joint-venture partners. The first Isis trial is planned for next year in Salt Lake City and Austin, Tex.

And that’s only the beginning. Visa is talking to both Google and Isis but also wants to put out its own competing wallet by this fall. American Express recently introduced a digital wallet named “Serve.” And MasterCard is working with everybody. The idea of putting even a few of these competing services onto a single phone sounds like a nightmare of complexity and competing interests, so it will be up to the major players to win over merchants with the lowest advertising fees and to wow them by luring shoppers into their stores and spurring additional purchases.

In the past, it’s taken some expensive stunts to get regular folks to even pay attention to a new form of payment. In 1958, a Bank of America manager named Joe Williams had a novel solution to the multisided platform problem that was stymieing the acceptance of plastic. He sent nearly every consumer in Fresno, Calif.—60,000 households—a new credit card, without even asking that they fill out an application or submit to a credit check. The Great Fresno Drop, as it was later called, soon persuaded some 1,000 area retailers to embrace this strange new form of payment. Although fraud was rampant and delinquent accounts were high, within two years the cards had spread throughout California. The era of plastic had officially begun.

It’s not yet clear whether there’s a company willing to pull off a stunt as ambitious (and reckless) as a Great Fresno Drop to launch the era of cellphone payments. Google, with its hoard of cash, is in a position to seed the market with thousands of subsidized point-of-sale terminals. Apple, too, has the financial heft to engage in such an effort. Other companies are betting on more incremental approaches that can solve real short-term problems in the payments industry.

Square, the brainchild of Twitter co-creator Jack Dorsey, is giving small businesses such as food carts and farmers market vendors a way to take credit cards almost immediately. The startup is freely distributing plastic devices that have a slot for swiping cards. These card readers, which are slightly larger than a Scrabble tile, plug into smartphones and turn them into payment terminals. It’s free for a retailer to sign up, whereas a conventional merchant credit-card account can cost hundreds of dollars.

Square is now processing $3 million in credit-card transactions a day. Based on a recent $100 million infusion of venture capital, the 2-year-old company is valued at $1 billion.

Square has also recently introduced tools to turn iPads into digital registers and to let shoppers use their smartphones to pay for items at local shops as well as store coupons and receipts. It sounds a lot like the capabilities dreamed of by NFC’s backers, but without the hassle of adding chips to phones and changing the behavior of regular people. Not surprisingly, the folks at Square have a skeptical view of NFC. “We believe NFC is a technology in search of a value proposition for both consumers and merchants,” says Keith Rabois, Square’s chief operating officer and a former executive at PayPal. “I’ve yet to meet a merchant that turns around saying, ‘I can’t wait for this NFC stuff.’ ”

PayPal, currently the leader in online payments with more than 100 million users, is thinking beyond NFC while hedging its bets. The company recently said it would allow owners of NFC-equipped Nexus S smartphones to make payments to each other by tapping their handsets together. Sam Shrauger, PayPal’s vice-president for global product and design, wonders if NFC isn’t just an interim step along the path to a universal digital currency. He foresees a day when consumers won’t even walk up to a cashier: They will browse a store; when they find what they need, they’ll pay with their phones by accessing payment information stored securely on the Internet. “The notion of walking to a checkout line and walking up to a point-of-sale terminal doesn’t need to be the way people behave,” he says. “That’s the real promise of a digital wallet. If I want to walk in and pay that way I can, but I should have an easier alternative.”

When the world moved from cash to credit, consumer behavior changed drastically. It altered people’s basic ideas about what was affordable and how much they were willing to spend. James E. Katz, director of the Center for Mobile Communication Studies at Rutgers University, believes we will have even fewer brakes on spending and could drive ourselves even further into debt when these mobile payment tools finally arrive. “The difference between a credit card and a mobile phone is, the credit card is a dedicated instrument people associate with buying. This other is a mobile phone, so you are one more step removed from seeing a change in your financial status.” Early evidence from NFC trials backs this up. Khan of ViVOtech says that in one of the 35 field trials his company has conducted, people’s expenditures jumped more than 20 percent when they used their phone to pay.

Rob Killian of Campbell, Calif., who is testing an NFC-equipped BlackBerry as part of a Bank of America mobile-payment trial, isn’t sure that he’s spending more money than usual, but he’s having an awfully good time being an early adopter. On a weekday morning this summer, Killian buys deodorant and a few shaving items at a Walgreens and pays for it with his phone. “That’s just new,” says the cashier. “That’s crazy.”

Outside, Killian holsters his BlackBerry with satisfaction and notes that he still carries a good old-fashioned leather wallet in his back pocket. “You still can’t put a driver’s license on a phone,” he says.

Retailers Develop BTS Strategies To Help Offset Rising Costs

2011-07-15T13:48:00.000-07:00

Stakes are high in struggle to woo consumers accustomed to a more promotional environment.

Dow Jones Newswires
By Karen Talley

Retailers are walking a tightrope this month as the back-to-school selling season gets under way, trying to balance higher merchandise costs against consumers who are used to promotions and uncertain because of the rocky economy.

Retailers and apparel makers are looking to raise prices 10% to 15% for products including jeans, t-shirts, sheets and towels because of the surge in cotton and other raw material prices. However, many will try to spread the pain across the entire chain, with suppliers, retailers and customers taking a hit.

Back-to-school shopping, which traditionally runs July through Labor Day, is usually the second-biggest buying season of the year. Last year, consumers spent $55.1 billion on everything from pens and backpacks to pants and sweaters, the National Retail Federation said. They spent $462 billion during the Christmas holidays in 2010.

"The stakes are very high," said Adrienne Tennant, retail analyst at Janney Capital Markets. "Retailers must pass along cost increases to a consumer that is very used to a promotional environment."

The back-to-school season will have an effect on third-quarter earnings and margins, as well as help set the tone for the key end-of-the-year holiday shopping period.

Patti Johnson of Elmhurst, N.Y., is just beginning her back-to-school shopping. As a mother of two girls, one in elementary school and another in junior high, she has a lot to buy, and she's nervous.

"I only have so much to spend, and I hear things will cost more this year," she said.

That skittish mindset is what retailers will be dealing with this year. To cut merchandise costs, they are tinkering with their offerings. Consumers may see synthetic thread used on cotton products, thinner linings and more embellishments, like buttons, to cut down on cotton use.

"Parents are going to be shocked and disappointed by the price of goods," said Kit Yarrow, professor of psychology and business at Golden Gate University. " They're going to make sure their kids are outfitted, but won't go beyond their budgets like they have in the past."

The cost of cotton began rising last summer at the same time retailers had to place their back-to-school merchandise orders. Given long lead times, the higher-priced product is now hitting shelves, just in time for the heavy back- to-school buying season.

The ability to pass higher costs to consumers "is uncertain and will largely depend on the strength of the product or retailer and the way the merchandise can stand out," said David Galper, head of specialty retail and apparel investment banking at KeyBanc Capital Markets.

Retailers are bringing out their back-to-school apparel, in varying degrees, and largely at full and, in a number of cases, higher prices than a year ago. A Gap Inc. store on Sixth Avenue in New York City is displaying children's jackets and hoodies. An Abercrombie & Fitch Co. Hollister store in Massapequa, N.Y., had completed converting its male section to back-to-school and fall wear and was preparing for women's wear. Sleeves are getting longer in displays at Wal-Mart Stores Inc. Target Corp. is preparing to roll out apparel, an employee said, and is full of school supplies. "They start putting it out fairly early," she said. Macy's Inc. is on the cusp of putting out its back-to-school merchandise, a customer service representative said.

Retailers have been running tests to get a sense of how customers will take to new pricing. Macy's Chief Financial Officer Karen Hoguet said early indications suggest consumers are willing to absorb some higher prices, although moderately-priced home merchandise appeared to have seen some resistance. Target merchandising chief Kathryn Tesija said increases on some products the retailer took in the spring will be extended to apparel and home goods and cover a greater amount of the products.

Dana Ferro, of Seaford, N.Y., who was shopping in a Target near her home, said she is "very price sensitive," but welcomes early rollouts of merchandise. "It lets me get my shopping done faster, and I can spend the rest of the summer with my children," she said.

Fast Retailing Anticipates Strong 2011 In Spite Of Rocky 2nd Quarter

2011-07-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

MRketplace

Despite posting a 0.8% fall in its second-quarter profits, Fast Retailing says it is still confident of meeting its full-year forecasts after warm weather lifted sales of summer clothing at its Uniqlo casual clothing chain.

Net sales for the group as a whole rose 3.5% to $2.46 billion in the three months from March through May. But net income slipped to $148 million from $149 million a year earlier, and operating income fell 4.6% to $284 million.

Operating income at Uniqlo Japan also fell 11.2% to $261 million, as the March earthquake and cool weather in April and May pushed same-store sales down 1.9%.

The firm was also forced to cut prices on spring inventory as a result of the earthquake, and this combined with higher cotton and raw material costs to push gross profit margin down by 3 points.

Overall, the company said Uniqlo Japan sales actually increased 0.7% in the quarter, although this came in below target.

Demand has been helped by the company’s focus on innovative product lines, with 70 million Heatech garments and 36 million functional summer innerwear items like Sarafine, Silky Dry and Style Up, sold so far.

But Uniqlo’s international operations saw “significant” gains in both sales and income during the quarter. And a strong performance from the Theory label kept the Global Brands unit on track.

While the Uniqlo Japan operation fell short of quarterly targets, Fast Retailing says sales of summer items have been buoyant since the weather grew hotter in July — including its Super Cool Biz-related clothing.

“Therefore, we do still expect to be able to achieve our forecast for a rise in both sales and income in the second half,” the company said.

For the full year to August 2011, it expects net sales to increase 2.6% to $10.57 billion, and consolidated operating income to fall 8.2%.

Fast Retailing owns the Uniqlo chain and the Theory brand, among other businesses.

Borders Faces The Hangman's Noose

2011-07-15T06:34:00.000-07:00

Wall Street Journal
By Mike Spector and Joseph Checkler

The fate of Borders Group Inc. hangs in the balance this weekend, with a Sunday deadline looming for the bookstore chain to either find a buyer or face liquidation.

A judge on Thursday said Borders could auction itself off with an opening bid from a group of liquidators, less than 24 hours after the bookseller's negotiations to sell itself to private-equity investor Jahm Najafi collapsed.

At a morning court hearing, Judge Martin Glenn of U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Manhattan approved procedures for an auction of Borders, which will take place Tuesday should any suitors emerge to challenge the liquidators' bid led by Hilco Merchant Resources and Gordon Brothers Group.

Borders, which employs nearly 11,000 people, will go out of business for good, absent a buyer emerging to keep the chain running.

"Borders remains focused on working with interested parties to develop a going-concern transaction," said Mike Edwards, Borders Group's president, in a statement. "We strongly believe in the value of Borders as an iconic brand with significant long-term potential in the publishing industry," he said, adding that the company appreciates efforts from publishers, landlords and customers to keep the chain alive.

Mr. Najafi's company declined comment.

The possibility remains that Mr. Najafi could make a new offer for the chain that would satisfy creditors. Any new bids are due by 5 p.m. Sunday, though Borders is likely to entertain offers that might save the company up until Tuesday's auction.

At Thursday's hearing, Borders said it hoped Mr. Najafi or other parties will come forward with a bid that would keep the company in business. A subsidiary of Mr. Najafi's Direct Brands offered $215 million for Borders's assets and would have assumed about $220 million in liabilities. But Borders late Wednesday pivoted to naming the liquidators as the so-called "stalking-horse" bidder after creditors had objected to Mr. Najafi's bid.

The creditors, including major publishers and landlords, argued Wednesday that the liquidators' bid would potentially pay them more. They complained that Mr. Najafi's bid gave him the option to liquidate the company after he bought Borders, a scenario in which creditors would fare worse. The creditors said the liquidators' bid already had the potential to pay them between $252 million and $284 million.

The creditors said they would support Mr. Najafi's bid if he dropped his option to liquidate the company. Mr. Najafi, in exchange, wanted guarantees from publishers that they would relax terms under which they ship Borders merchandise. Publishers had been demanding cash in advance before shipments.

Some major publishers agreed, but a couple still hadn't by late Wednesday afternoon, and Mr. Najafi signaled he wouldn't alter his deal terms, according to people familiar with the matter.

Andrew K. Glenn, a Borders lawyer at Kasowitz, Benson Torres & Friedman LLP, told Judge Glenn that Borders had engaged in "round-the-clock negotiations" with Mr. Najafi, to no avail.

"This has been a case with many twists and turns and the events of the last 24 hours are no exception," Mr. Glenn said. "Unfortunately, [Mr. Najafi] would not commit in time for this hearing."

Mr. Najafi released a statement late Wednesday saying his original offer, with the liquidation option, remained on the table but "was no longer supported by the deciding parties." Mr. Najafi said he remained willing to move forward if Borders chose to resume talks and negotiate his existing offer.

Dozens of landlords of Borders's 399 remaining stores objected to a tight timetable between the July 19 auction and a July 21 sale hearing, but Borders said it might try to break the sale hearing into different parts so parties would have more time to decide whether to object. Judge Glenn said he liked that idea.

The tricky part for Borders would be if a bidder emerges that wants to keep Borders's stores running; that bidder would have to decide how it will treat the leases on the remaining stores.

Lots of Black Ink As Hugo Boss Quintuples Second Quarter Profits

2011-07-15T06:10:00.000-07:00

by Arnold J. Karr
From WWD Issue 07/15/2011

Expansion of its retail activities and substantial growth in the U.S. and China allowed Hugo Boss AG to more than quintuple its second-quarter profits and lift its guidance for the full year.

In the three months ended June 30, the Metzingen, Germany-based apparel firm registered net income of 31 million euros, or $44.6 million, versus 6 million euros, or $7.7 million, during the corresponding 2010 quarter. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and special items more than doubled to 63 million euros, or $90.6 million, from 31 million euros, or $39.5 million.

Sales expanded 24.6 percent to 405 million euros, or $582.6 million, from 325 million euros, or $414.6 million.

Dollar figures have been calculated at average exchange for the periods to which they refer.

“The positive development was due primarily to the comp-store sales growth in the group’s own retail business and the expansion of the group’s own retail activities,” the company said. “The most significant increase in sales was posted in China and in the U.S. market.”

Among the company’s U.S. initiatives during the second quarter was the redesign of the its Hugo store in SoHo in May.

The second-quarter results prompted the company to increase its expectations for 2012, raising its anticipated increase in sales, after adjustment for currency fluctuation, to an increase of 15 to 17 percent, versus its earlier estimate of a 12 percent gain, and its forecast for EBITDA before special items to 25 to 30 percent, from at least 15 percent.

Net income for the first half rose 54.8 percent to 113 million euros, or $162.6 million, from 73 million euros, or $102.4 million, while EBITDA excluding special items was up 58.5 percent to 195 million euros, or $280.6 million, from 123 million euros, or $172.5 million. Sales rose 22.9 percent to 945 million euros, or $1.36 billion, from 769 million euros, or $1.08 billion.

The company said it plans to discuss results for the quarter and a half and its outlook for the year during a presentation July 28.

Shares of Hugo Boss fell 1.1 percent to 69.60 euros, or $100.15, in trading in Frankfurt Thursday.

Hearings For Design Protection and Piracy Prevention Act Set

2011-07-15T05:58:00.000-07:00

by Kristi Ellis
From WWD Issue 07/15/2011

A contingent of Seventh Avenue designers and apparel executives is heading to Capitol Hill today to try to advance legislation that would afford them some protection from knockoffs for the first time in history.

Lazaro Hernandez, designer and a partner of Proenza Schouler, will carry the flag for fashion designers and the Council of Fashion Designers of America, as he testifies in support of a bill known as the Innovative Design Protection and Piracy Prevention Act, which would extend copyright protection to “unique and original” designs for a period of three years.

Kurt Courtney, manager of government relations for the American Apparel & Footwear Association, will testify on behalf of apparel brands, in support of the bill introduced late Wednesday by Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R., Va.), chair of the House Judiciary subcommittee on Intellectual Property, Competition and the Internet, which is holding today’s hearing. The witness list also includes Jeannie Suk, a Harvard Law School professor, and Christopher Sprigman, a University of Virginia School of Law professor who opposes the legislation.

The legislation represents a compromise between the AAFA and CFDA in conjunction with Sen. Charles Schumer (D., N.Y.), who co-sponsored and led the introduction of the bill last year. The bipartisan measure stalled after it was passed by the Senate Judiciary Committee at that time. In a new session of Congress, the legislation will have to be introduced and passed by the House and Senate, and be signed by the President to become law.

If enacted, the bill would cover only “deliberate copies that are substantially identical to the protected designs.” All designs created in the public domain prior to enactment of the bill would be exempt and protection extends automatically to designs without registration. A “heightened pleading standard” requires a plaintiff in a lawsuit to prove the design is “protectable, substantially identical” and that the defendant had access to, or was aware of, the “protected design.”

Steven Kolb, executive director of the CFDA, said he will be at the hearing today, accompanied by two other Proenza Schouler executives, Jack McCollough, designer and partner, and Shirley Cook, the company’s chief executive officer and partner.

“I think this legislation is as important now as it was when we started [about five years ago] and maybe even more so,” Kolb said. “Because we see the vulnerability of designers, particularly young designers and small business owners and the consequences of their ideas, intellectual property and creativity being taken from them and how it impacts their ability to manufacture their collections and grow their businesses.”

Kevin Burke, president and ceo of the AAFA, said the “heightened pleading requirement” in the legislation allowed the organization to support the bill.

“This provides additional protection to our members from what they all fear most and that is frivolous lawsuits,” said Burke.

Kolb said designers continue to lose tens of thousands of dollars to knock-off artists who profit from their creations because the U.S. does not protect fashion designs under intellectual property laws. Copyright protection does not cover apparel because articles of clothing are currently considered “useful articles” as opposed to works of art. Design patents, which protect ornamental designs, and trademarks, which protect brand names and logos, do not cover apparel design.

Justin Bieber Fragrance Becomes Macy's Biggest Launch Ever

2011-07-15T00:35:00.000-07:00

USA Today
By Olivia Barker

For Justin Bieber, Someday is now — at least when it comes to the success of his perfume.

Fans are flocking to his heart-capped flacon. Since its debut just three weeks ago, the fruity scent for women has emerged as the biggest celebrity fragrance launch in Macy's history, pushing past the potions of fellow pop stars such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez and Jessica Simpson.

No surprise, considering the pandemonium that greeted Someday's unveiling at Macy's Herald Square in New York. Bieber is donating net profits of the perfume, which costs $35 to $55 a bottle, to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Pencils of Promise, which builds schools in the developing world.

"I'm excited and humbled at the news about Someday," Bieber, 17, said in an email. "It means a lot to me that my fans are there to support. And the best part for me is that my favorite charities are going to share in the success. It is important to pay it forward."

"Justin's fans have spoken," said Paul West, the chairman and CEO of Give Back Brands, the charity-minded beauty company that partnered with Bieber. "This incredible fragrance and Justin's massive worldwide appeal paired with the idea that you can buy something you love and at the same time contribute to a meaningful cause proved to be an incredibly compelling proposition."

Cracking the Code

2011-07-14T16:08:00.000-07:00

QR has potential to bring dramatic change to retail

NRF Stores
By M.V. Greene

The retail industry is going bonkers over quick response (QR) codes — those square, two-dimensional barcodes resembling puzzles and mazes that give customers instant interactive access to product information through their smartphones.

“If you can provide not only information but also more of an entertaining experience as you dial into that product information, then that will be more captivating to a consumer,” says Don Eames, vice president, general manager of retail stores for Merrimack, N.H.-based specialty lifestyle retailer Brookstone.

Click this link to read more about the QR Revolution in the July issue of NRF Stores.

Retailers Fall Over Themselves Trying To Accommodate Customer Demand For Cute Workout Clothes

2011-07-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

A once limited market has turned mainstream as more women add active lifestyles to their list of pursuits.

By Andrea Chang
Los Angeles Times
July 13, 2011

With women willing to spend $100 on a pair of cute yoga pants, retailers are racing to make workout clothes that are as much about style as sweat.

Athletic clothing has traditionally been relegated to the gym, where women would huff and puff in un-glamorous get-ups — think oversized men's T-shirts and baggy sweatpants.

But now that more women are pursuing active lifestyles — juggling Pilates, spinning classes and hikes in Runyon Canyon with busy professional and personal lives — what was once a limited market for fitness apparel has taken off.

High-end brand Lululemon Athletica Inc. has been adding to its yoga and running lines, experimenting with cycling products and opening stores in new markets. Gap Inc.'s Athleta, until recently a catalog- and online-only company for women, will open seven stores this year, including two in Southern California. Performance athletic company Under Armour Inc. is introducing a new yoga collection this summer and redesigning its sports bras and underwear for 2012.

Mainstream retailers have caught on. Fast-fashion chain Forever 21 Inc. began selling active wear in February, following Gap, which introduced its GapBodyFit line last fall. Nordstrom Inc. and Target Corp., which have their own private-label brands, have been expanding their women's sportswear offerings. Even lingerie company Victoria's Secret sells yoga pants and "bralettes."

"It's an underserved, under-represented market that's growing," said Howard Tubin, a retail analyst at RBC Capital Markets. "There is certainly competition, but there's room for retailers to pick off a little bit."

Brands are eager to quickly roll out new merchandise because the core active-wear shopper is the ultimate consumer: female, relatively young, fashion-forward and willing to spend money.

"We are hungry to win this girl over," said Adrienne Lofton Shaw, a marketing director at Under Armour.

Retailers say they're not only filling a void in the sports apparel market, which has predominantly catered to men, but also correcting a long-standing flaw in athletic clothing for women.

"The assortment that has historically been available to them has generally been reverse-engineered from a male garment, made smaller and made pink," said Scott Key, senior vice president at Athleta, which is planning to open 50 stores by 2013. "Women are demanding true performance items, but that are attuned to their specific needs."

One of those needs is clothing that is attractive. Women such as Claire Parker, 29, say they work out to feel good but want to look good while doing it, too.

Before going for a run, Parker stopped by a Lululemon store in San Francisco to buy two running tops. Although the yoga-inspired brand's merchandise is "ridiculously priced" — she spent $125 on the shirts — she said the clothing was worth it because it "hides all the imperfections" and "decreases jiggle."

"Let's face it," she said. "You never know who you're going to meet at the gym."

Or afterward.

Retail analysts say active-wear brands have successfully broken the barrier between workout attire and street clothes, which has further boosted sales. "There are people who don't do anything athletic who are wearing it; it's become more of a fashion statement," said Pamela Quintiliano, a research analyst at Oppenheimer & Co.

Despite toting a $1,000 Marc Jacobs handbag while shopping at the Grove recently, Stacy Lee was dressed in a sweatshirt, flip-flops and Lululemon yoga pants, which she called "my favorite pants in the world."

"I probably wear these every other day," the 19-year-old said. "I don't feel like if you wear workout clothes that you have to look grubby."

Retail analysts credit Vancouver, Canada-based Lululemon with fueling the active-wear trend and making it cool to wear workout clothes to the mall, out for coffee or to run errands.

Founded in 1998, the company has had phenomenal growth recently as the overall retail industry has seen modest performance. Lululemon, which has 142 stores, plans to open 25 new locations this year.

On Thursday, Lululemon's stock reached an all-time closing high of $60.85. Its shares are up 75% for the year and rose $1.03 to close at $59.92 on Tuesday.

In its most recent quarter, Lululemon reported that its revenue soared 35% year-over-year to $186.8 million and sales at stores open at least a year rose 16%. The company's $33.4-million profit was up 70% from $19.6 million in the year-earlier quarter.

Shoppers say they like that the company is about more than just the products it sells, noting the weekly yoga classes and running clubs that the retailer offers. Other brands, including Athleta and Nordstrom's Zella active-wear line, have also hosted in-store fitness events.

"Companies like Lululemon, they don't sell clothes — they sell a lifestyle," said Lee, a Los Feliz resident and UC Berkeley student. "So I think people bought into that and felt like they needed the clothes to be part of the lifestyle. I have."

As the competition has heated up, high-performance brands have bristled at suggestions that anyone can make a quality athletic product, arguing that there's a difference between authenticity and jumping on the bandwagon.

"When I look at the market, there's a lot of 'me too,'" Lofton Shaw of Under Armour said. "Everyone's chasing trends."

For their part, general retailers are touting affordability and accessibility.

At Target, which has been adding products to its exclusive C9 by Champion active-wear line, the discounter wants to offer athletic merchandise without "the intimidation factor of walking into a specialty boutique or a sports store," spokesman Joshua Thomas said.

The most expensive active-wear item at Forever 21 is a long-sleeved sports top with a partial zipper for $22.80. The Los Angeles-based chain also carries sports bras for $8.80 and workout pants for $12.80.

Victoria's Secret, meanwhile, is upping the glam factor. Its "bling bootcut yoga pant" features rhinestones and animal prints; the product's online shopping Web page recently said: "Look hot when you work out or hang out. Be a yoga superstar."

For shoppers such as Lynn Brown, 41, who said she dreads going to the gym, not looking "like a frump" is of utmost concern.

"I don't want to go in sweatpants and do something I hate," the stay-at-home mom said while shopping at an Athleta store in San Francisco. "I like to wear nice clothes so I feel good about going."