USA:Guitar style handbags carry most exciting time in fashion

 

Holrbak Handbags announced immediate availability of four new styles available now to consumers at its website. "A rendezvous of exciting designs and excellent quality is how we define our new collection of ladies guitar style handbags," said Greg Burns-Holrbak Handbag Vice President of Sales/Marketing. "The Holrbak Handbag is the perfect complement to your wardrobe for a girl’s night out or evening out on the town at your favorite live music club, concert or party. With several color styles to choose from, you're sure to be the envy among all of your purse-wearing pals."

A beautiful guitar sling handbag that is very stylish and provides stunning detail, extra wide strap, zip-top closure, sizzling metal studs, 2 pockets, interior compartment, and a detachable, adjustable strap which allows the bag to be worn as a shoulder bag or a hip bag. This unique handbag also makes the perfect gift for music lovers of all ages.

Many customers have already benefited from the purchase of a Holrbak Handbag. “I purchased one of each design and can use one to have autographed at my concerts and the rest to wear with just about any outfit," a business professional by day and avid concert fan by night, Julie Just. “I absolutely love my new Holrbak Handbags!”

The new Holrbak Handbag collection is driven by customer feedback and is part of Holrbak's commitment to deliver the new designs to consumers initially through the official website launch at its website. Holrbak Handbags are also available at selected events in Southern California and Arizona and will soon be available in boutiques and retailers throughout the U.S.

Founded in 2009, Holrbak Handbags are the newest craze in women's fashion and accessories. The company offers a unique product designed to empower the female consumer through trendy and fashionable design — any time and any place. 

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Canada:VCAD instructor passes along her advice to aspiring designers

 

What has become an institution in the Vancouver Goth scene, humbly began ten years ago as the vision of design school grad, Miriam Melanson. Looking to take her love of fashion and talent for crafting to the next level, Melanson launched Flaming Angels, a line of clothing and accessories that exuded an aura of both purity and mystery. A decade later, the craft seamstress is applying her passion for fashion in a new venue – as a fashion instructor at Vancouver College of Art and Design (VCAD).

“I have always had an interest in fashion and especially handicrafts and sewing. All the women on my mother’s side of the family sew,” says Melanson. “My decision to become a designer happened when I was in grade 10, and I launched Flaming Angels while I was still in design school.”

Since its inception, Flaming Angels has grown and evolved, now featuring home furnishings as well as clothing and accessories. Staying relevant and successful as an independent designer isn’t easy, but Melanson believes starting off with proper skills training can boost a designer’s longevity.

“Attending a well rounded fashion program like those offered at VCAD will give anyone the tools and foundation skills needed for a career in the fashion industry,” advises Melanson. “Designers also need drive, ambition and perseverance.”

Students at VCAD receive hands-on training from instructors like Melanson who work in the fields they teach, passing along the most relevant and current information. Those interested in pursuing a career in fashion can register at VCAD in the Fashion Design or Marketing and Merchandising for Fashion program.  

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India:Timberland inks distribution deal with Reliance Brands

 

The Timberland Company, a leading outdoor footwear and apparel company, announced an exclusive partnership with Reliance Brands Ltd., part of Reliance Industries Ltd., to distribute Timberland footwear and apparel to the Indian market.

Through the collaboration,Timberland products will be available through Timberland fascia retail stores and premium department stores in major cities throughout India. The Timberland brand represents four decades of product engineering and innovation, and a deep commitment to preserving the outdoors for which their products are designed.

“With its rapidly-growing fashion and retail sectors, we believe India will become a key market for us,” said Jeff Swartz,President and CEO of Timberland. “Reliance Brands has a wealth of experience in launching and successfully distributing international brands in India. They have a clear understanding of the Timberland brand and consumer, and are as committed as we are to our ideology and passion for the outdoors.”

“Timberland is a trusted, authentic brand with a history of innovation and quality, functional products for the outdoors—and we’re excited to help drive the expansion of Timberland in to India,” said Darshan Mehta, President and CEO, Reliance Brands Ltd. “With the strength of the Timberland brand and our shared commitment to excellence, we’re confident this will be a long, successful partnership.” 

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UK:LFW opportunity for emerging & independent designers

 

Emerging and Independent designers will once again be able to present their collections to an audience of press, buyers, general fashion professionals and upscale consumers at the elegant and Cosmopolitan вЂCharing Cross Hotel’.

вЂA La Mode’ has had two successful seasons as more and more buyers and press are recognising and acknowledging quality emerging and Independent designer brands. The high profile вЂA La Mode’ London Fashion Week event has rapidly established itself as a cost effective platform for select designers to reach out to key industry figures, especially during these tough economic times, and as an opportunity for buyers to be the first to snap up exceptional new and Independent brands.

Guests attending the event include buyers, press, journalists, PRs and other fashion professionals and enthusiasts.

La Geneve North Events have been previously sponsored by the likes of globally recognised, established brands such as 'Hush Puppies', Yonka, Guoman Hotels, Quick Energy Drinks and L.A Sugar to name a few. 

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China:Badminton star Lin Dan launches clothing line

 

Li Ning sports Apparel Company that sponsors the Chinese national badminton team has launched a series of fashion apparel dedicated to Lin Dan, who is a dominant Chinese player in World Badminton.

This collection comprising of street style fashion clothing worn by the superstar, will hit Li Ning stores soon. Fans of Lin Dan and common public are the target customers of this collection, said the badminton player.

The Olympic and three-time world champion gives his feedbacks on designs to Li Ning designers for creating more appealing products as he believes that youngsters have different thoughts and ideas on the products.
 

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Italy:Modaprima for fast fashion collections

 

The 67th edition of Modaprima, the international fair presenting ready-to wear men’s and women's fashion and accessory collections created-for-large-scale-distribution for the 2010/2011 fall-winter season and sneak-peeks of the 2010 spring/summer collections, will be held in Milan from 28-30th November 2009, in the Portello at FieraMilanoCity.

The protagonists of this edition will be 75 companies who will be previewing around 150 collections to a public of international buyers. The fair - the first event created on the international scene for this particular market segment – will present a selection of the best companies specializing in ready-to-wear and created-for-large-scale-distribution fashion products.

“We can confirm Modaprima’s strategy of focusing strongly on scouting, quality, research and segmented proposals”, says Agostino Poletto, deputy general manager of Pitti Immagine. “This is the eighth edition we have organized and, once again, the event takes on the role of a reference point for an important production sector in the Italian fashion system featuring companies from our top industrial districts. In this continuing difficult economic situation, it is important to offer our international buyers – who represent 45% of the total - fast fashion collections with quality content and exciting prices with which to constantly renew their seasonal product proposals”.

Alongside the BRANDS WHO HAVE PREVIOUSLY ATTENDED Modaprima, there will be names such as: Nuovi Sarti - Karat, Beatrice B., Sfizio by PlissГЁ, Ann Max, Vezzo, Esseci, Zanetti Moda, QubhГ  - Critina Rej, Bernardini, Incontro, Cristian International, Algis and Maglificio Venezia; and NEWCOMERS: Cix & Co., Cix & Co., Arduino Gironacci, Bon Bon, Ramas, T & T, Sorriso, Emmetrade, Verderame, Carnevale and Franzoni.

Another important feature of this event is the FASHION CUBE, the research area curated by Sergio Colantuoni – one of Italy’s most successful visual designers – and produced with the valuable cooperation of the exhibitors. Next season’s inputs and fashion trends will be showcased inside this area using visual and scenographic installations: the 5 THEMES for this edition are Sauvage, Useful, Wood, Edelweiss and Pottery.

The international dimension that characterizes Modaprima is also the result of a targeted promotional strategy directed towards both emergent and traditional markets realized by Pitti Immagine in collaboration with ICE - Istituto per il Commercio con l’Estero [Italian Foreign Trade Commission]. The countries invited to this edition include Canada, South Korea, Denmark, Japan, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Portugal, Spain, United States, Russia, Ukraine and Scandinavian countries. 

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USA:NOFW to help facilitate growth of fashion & nightlife industries

 

New Orleans Fashion Week 2009 is the PREMIER event for fashion in New Orleans, LA!! The fashion week events start on December 1st with official events continuing through December 6th. The opening night wills the debut of “MODEL CITIZENS”, a fashion networking event for all fashion, & beauty professionals.

VIP fashion shows being held on Friday December 4th and Saturday December 5th at the beautiful Art Egg Studios. Two shows with 500– 700 people per night gazing at new fashion lines for spring 2010. The event will showcase premier such as Conrad Lamour, & Georgiou, as well as, local fashion talent. The expected Internet reach is 20,280.

So, tune in and join the fun! The major event sponsor is Valentino, celebrating the release of his DVD Valentino the Last Emperor, a movie about the famed fashion designer Valentino. For more information on Fashion Week, New Orleans Fashion Week is brought to you by Conrad Lamour of New Orleans Fashion Week LLC. 

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UK:Orchard congratulates Simon Pure for receiving award at UK Jewellery

 

Simon Pure, a client of Orchard Growth Partners, has been presented with the internationally acclaimed Platinum Bridal Collection of the Year Award at the 2009 UK Jewellery Awards. Steve Parsons, Creative Director of Simon Pure, was presented with the award, which was sponsored by the Platinum Guild International, at a glittering ceremony held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Park Lane.

The Surrey based design-led jewellery retailer, which has been working with Orchard Principal Antony Doggwiler for the past three years, is no stranger to awards ceremonies having previously picked up the UK Platinum Innovation Design Award and a Kayman award for jewellery design, as well as having been twice short listed for the prestigious UK Independent Jewellery Retailer of the Year and a finalist in the Luxury Jeweller of the Year award.

Receiving the award, Steve could not hide his delight. "Winning this has come as a complete surprise to us all, especially with such tough competition. We are over the moon that our work has been recognized for this prestigious category." Simon Pure has been pushing the boundaries of jewellery design since starting business in Smithbrook Kilns, near Cranleigh, in 1986 and opened its flagship Guildford shop in 2000. In spite of the difficult economic climate, the business has continued to flourish, and is looking forward to using this award to drive the business forward in the coming months. 

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UK:Nominees announced for British Fashion Awards

 

The British Fashion Council(BFC) announces the shortlist of nominees for the 2009 British Fashion Awards supported by Swarovski. The event recognises the most influential people in fashion today and will celebrate the reputation and development of British fashion over the last 25 years. The winners will be announced at the British Fashion Awards, on Wednesday 9th December at a ceremony to close the British Fashion Council’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

The eleven categories include Designer of the Year, the ultimate accolade, which recognises a leading British designer of couture,ready-to-wear, knitwear or accessories who has directed the shapeof fashion in the past year and elevated their international reputation. This year there will also be a one-off London 25award which will celebrate an individual who embodies the spirit of London and is an international ambassador for the capital’s fashion industry. The winner of this award will be decided entirely by public vote. The event will also acknowledge the achievement of one designer who throughout their career has made an exceptional impact on global fashion, with the BFC Award for Outstanding Achievement in Fashion Design.

Nominations for awards are made by key opinion formers within the industry. The winners are selected by relevant panels of leading British and international media and buyers.

The UK is internationally recognised for emerging design talent. This year, as part of their support for British talent and the British Fashion Awards, Swarovski are again sponsoring twoawards: the Emerging Talent Award for Ready to Wear and the Emerging Talent Award for Accessories. These awards recognise and financially reward the UK’s most exciting new designers. A panel of media, buyers and BFC talent scouts were asked to nominate in this category. This year’s judging panel includes Nadja Swarovski, Vice President, Swarovski Crystal Business, LucyYeomans, editor of Harper’s Bazaar, Alexandra Shulman, editor of Vogue, Sarah Mower, leading international journalist (Vogue US and Style.com) and BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent and Joan Burstein, Founder and Owner of Browns.

The British Fashion Awards 2009 shortlisted nominees are:
1. SWAROVSKI EMERGING TALENT AWARD - ACCESSORIES
An innovative and directional accessories designer who is emerging as an influential force in British fashion in the Accessories category.
Nominees: Camilla Skovgaard, Holly Fulton, Jessica McCormack,Maria Francesca Pepe

2. SWAROVSKI EMERGING TALENT AWARD - READY TO WEAR
An innovative and directional designer who is emerging as an influential force in British fashion in the Ready to Wear category.
Nominees: Mark Fast, Meadham Kirchhoff, Peter Pilotto

3. DESIGNER BRAND
A leading British designer brand that has excelled and made an impact on the international stage over the past year.
Nominees: Burberry, Mulberry, Pringle of Scotland
 

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India:вЂShoemaking is a labour-intensive process’ - Manager Engineering, Nike

 

A guest lecture on вЂSports Shoe Production’ was held on November 20, 2009 from 2:00 PM in the auditorium of the Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI) Noida.

Mr. Dharmendr Sunkara, Manager Engineering from Nike, delivered the lecture and guided the staff and students on the issues related to sports shoe production.

Emphasizing upon the need of student-industry interface, Mr. Rajeev Lakhara, IRS, Managing Director, FDDI stated, “To offer the possibility of enhancing student learning, guest lectures by renowned industrialist and professionals are being organized in FDDI as it provides expertise in select areas and the studentsare more likely involved in it.”

In his address, Mr. Sunkara said that “Sports shoes are made froma combination of materials and the last 15 years have witnessed great changes in the design of the sports shoes, which now comes in all styles and colours.”

Mr. Sunkara further said that “Shoemaking is a labour-intensive process, and each phase of production requires precision and skills, and taking shortcuts to reduce costs can result in an inferior shoe.”

A highly developed industry interface available with theInstitute brings the needed relational linkages with the concept and cases developed in the classroom.

Mr. Shashi Bhushan Shukla, IRS, Secretary FDDI said “These lectures and industry interaction give students to understand thechallenges and opportunities of the industry in a better manner.”

The lectures were attended by students of footwear programmes, faculty & staff members of FDDI. 

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Russia:Saint Petersburg Beauty Expo – successful event

 

September 10-13, Saint Petersburg Beauty Expo “Nevskye Berega” at Sport and Concert Complex, having gathered more than 100,000 guests from many countries.

One of the brightest events in the field of the beauty industry took place in St-Petersburg. It lasted for four days, during which the city was attended by most noted professionals from different parts of the world: cosmetologists nail designers, masseurs, hairdressers, makeup designers, and project managers in the sphere of beauty-shop business, who just could not miss such an important event.

International Beauty Expo was accommodated on three levels of St-Petersburg Sport and Concert Complex (SCC), having an area of 15,000 m2. More than 350 companies, representing most leading brands of cosmetology, nail design, hair-styling, and presenting their most up-to-date developments, took part in the event. The exhibitors in the sector of cosmetologists and massage technologies specialists were especially noted. It is a well known fact that beauty is closely connected with one’s health, that is why more and more attention is being paid to this branch. This year nail industry was also represented on a grand scale: there took place master classes of different nail-design schools, and leading companies demonstrated their most recent developments.

For the first time within the framework of Nevskye Berega International Beauty Expo there was presented a special programme, delivered by famous stylists from Sassoon Academy, London, including Edward Darley, UK Color Director and Danielle Harvey, Senior Creative Director.

Throughout these four days visitors could also enjoy mastery of technique, displayed by stylists. Edward and Danielle were impressed by the scope of the festival and high professionalism of our masters, so they plan to come back to St. Petersburg with a special programme to attend Nevskye Berega on February 19-23, 2010.

The agenda of the events for specialists, working in different branches of the beauty industry, managed to attract a really huge number of them, and we may witness some steady interest in training programmes that professionals inevitably take. The events of the Festival’s agenda embraced all beauty-salon trends and branches, having paid attention to different aspects of beauty-salon business development and raising the level of masters’ and managers’ skills.

A number of educational programmes for cosmetologists and aesthetists also took place, including forums for SPA-massage specialists, for cosmetologists and for podologists that had a big success with representatives of these professions. More than 100 cosmetologists from all Russia gathered on September 12 in the conference hall of “Bourjois” press-centre. The topic was “Peelings from A to Z: All Truth about Them”, which proved to be of great and urgent importance, the lecture being delivered by Natalia Polonskaya, DMS, Assistant Professor of Skin & Venereal Diseases and Clinical Mycology Department of Russian State University’s Faculty of Doctors Advanced Training, Head Physician of Optimed Aesthetic Medicine Corporation. 

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USA:Judy Crowell launches new fashion & accessories collection on ShopNBC

 

ShopNBC the premium lifestyle brand in electronic retailing, announced that Judy Crowell, television shopping industry veteran and fashion trend forecaster, has joined the network as the inspiration and designer of the new show series, "Judy Crowell Collection." As part of the network's ShopNBC Anywhere initiative, customers can shop via cable and satellite TV; mobile devices; online.

Judy Crowell brings over 20 years of television experience to ShopNBC. She began her career as a TV correspondent, then as a TV shopping host for QVC and HSN. Ms. Crowell's career led her to fashion hot spots around the world, including Monte Carlo, Basel, Milan, and Hong Kong, where she developed a global sense of style. Ms. Crowell is certified as a trend forecaster from the World Fashion Council.

The Judy Crowell Collection will feature fashion outerwear and accessories for women seeking to update their wardrobe and help create a polished look. Designed to enhance rather than replace a woman's wardrobe, the Judy Crowell Collection also caters to women searching for timeless and affordable accessories. Viewers will be surprised and delighted with the newest trends in handbags, sunglasses, scarves and more, along with Ms. Crowell's advice on where and how to wear each piece.

Judy Crowell's Key Accessories for Holiday 2009:

•Paisley Scarf. Key accessory for the season, the scarf adds instant sophistication to any outfit.
•Crackle Finish Clutch. Add a little ooh la la to last year's little black dress.
•Braid Detail Shopper Handbag. Look pulled together and stay organized with this handy tote that shifts from work to play.

"We are pleased to welcome Judy and her collection to the ShopNBC family," said Cindy Chen-Derkacz, ShopNBC's Vice President of Fashion. "Her sense of style and trend insight is long-admired by her loyal viewers and industry experts. Judy's presentation style is not only entertaining, but will also educate viewers with effortless ways to create a timeless and polished look. Judy and her collection are an exciting addition to our fashion category, as we continue to build an array of wardrobe options that work for the busy lifestyles of ShopNBC customers."

"Since the moment I walked into ShopNBC and felt the energy of the network and its entire staff, I've been excited to premiere the Judy Crowell Collection to viewers across the country," said Judy Crowell, designer and guest expert. "As women, we oftentimes have an entire closet full of clothes yet feel like we have nothing to wear. I hope to change that. I'll be combining my experience and enthusiasm for fashion, along with helpful style tips to educate, entertain, and connect with viewers." 

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USA:Nordstrom Rack in North Carolina!!!

 

Nordstrom, Inc. announced plans to open its first Nordstrom Rack in North Carolina. The new 33,000-square-foot store will be located at Renaissance Center in Durham. The store is expected to open in fall 2010.

Nordstrom Rack, a unit of the company's off-price retail division, carries merchandise from Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com at 50-60% off original Nordstrom prices. Nordstrom Rack also offers a wide selection of apparel, accessories and shoes from many of the brands carried in Nordstrom stores and purchased specially for Nordstrom Rack, with most at savings of 30-70% off.

The Nordstrom Rack store will be located between Cost Plus World Market and Pier 1 Imports, and will join other retailers at Renaissance Center such as REI, Old Navy, Babies"R"Us and Best Buy. The center is located across the road from The Streets of Southpoint mall, where Nordstrom has operated a full-line store since 2002. Renaissance Center is owned and managed by CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.

"We are excited about this opportunity to open a Nordstrom Rack in the Raleigh/Durham area and provide our customers with another way to shop with us," said Scott Meden, president of Nordstrom Rack. "Renaissance Center is a convenient, easily-accessible shopping destination with an outstanding mix of retailers. This is a great location for our first Nordstrom Rack in North Carolina."

"We are pleased to announce the addition of another terrific shopping option to our community center in Durham," said Jan Wills, vice president - leasing for CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. "Nordstrom Rack is a great shopping destination that will truly complement the attractive retailer lineup at Renaissance Center. We are excited to continue to deliver on our goal of enhancing our shopping properties." 

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UK:A fresh new look to Pure London

 

Purelondon.com has gone live with a fresh new look,consolidatingits position at the forefront of UK fashion trade exhibitions.

Pure London has cast it’s web even further over the past three seasons, expanding from solely offering womenswear to now showcasing unisex collections such as Desigual, Vacant, Iron Fistand Monkee Genes as well as menswear brands BC London, Radiobot and Brandon and men’s footwear from Fly London, Art, Eject from Portugal and Argentinean brand Las Paez.The new web address, www.purelondon.com, reflects the depth and breadth of the show as it enters its 27th season.

The newly designed website allows visitors and exhibitors to haveeasy access to all the need-to-know information about the show.

This season welcomes a range of top designers including Calvin Klein, John Smedley, Olivia Rubin, Ian Stuart London, Ruth Tarvydas and Zandra Rhodes, who have signed up to present their Autumn/Winter 2010 collections. 

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India:Ritesh Kumar to represent India at Asian Designer's Collection Tokyo

 

Fashion Design Council of India(FDCI) is glad to announce that Ritesh Kumar has been selected as the Young Indian Designer to represent India amongst the emerging global talent at the Asian Designers Collection at the Japan Fashion Week in Tokyo in March 2010. The Designer will be showcasing on the opening day of the Japan Fashion Week on 22nd March 2010 whereas the exhibitions will be held from the 22nd - 28th March 2010.

Ritesh Kumar is an alumnus of Domus Academy, Milan, Italy and National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi, India. He has worked as a design consultant with fashion houses likeErmanno Daelli, Chimento and Parasuco in Italy and House of Valaya and Esprit De Corp in India.

Ritesh Kumar's work focuses on finding new vocabulary for fashionand provoking established notions around the discipline. His ambition of personal expression is through a hybrid of medium: - fashion, photography, painting, graphics & writings. He has been finalist in International Young Designers Fashion Week, Moda Estremadura - Badajoz, Spain (2005). His photographic works have been showcased in a solo exhibition at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, India (2008).

His one year old label, Ridzyn is currently retailing from selected stores in India and abroad and looking at expanding its international presence. At present a women's wear line, Ridzyn intends to include menswear in its product portfolio with coming seasons. Ritesh Kumar's current projects include a corporate retail tie-up and luxury institutional wear for an Indian food retail giant, while simultaneously working on a fine arts exhibition.

Congratulating Ritesh for his participation at Asian Designers Collection, Sunil Sethi, President, FDCI, said, "It's a proud feeling when the young Indian talent is recognized globally.This is the 2nd year of representation from India. Young designers arethe future of Indian fashion industry & FDCI has always encouraged the emerging talent to display their creative designs and also provides them various platforms, which recognizes their talent, aptitude and a desire to excel. The Asian Designers' Collection 2010 Committee, found Ritesh to be an apt choice for this competition. Mr. Sethi added that it was a very elevating experience to meet Mr. Atsuo Nakagawa, the Asian Designers' Collection 2010 Committee Chairman who visited us in India and also did a detailed study of the collections of the 5 shortlisteddesigners by visiting their studios. The Chairman expressed that he sees lots of hope from the young Indian talent and informed that Indian designer wear has a growing market in Japan. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration with the Committee, said Mr. Sethi."

In Ritesh's words "It is, of course, a great opportunity and honor to be able to show in the Asian Designers' Collection at the Japan Fashion Week in Tokyo, which has a distinct identity within fashion capitals of the world. I am looking forward to a stimulating experience in Japan; both in terms of inspirational creative exposure and exploring a new market territory for my brand. Thanks to FDCI, upcoming designers have access to international opportunities like these and possibility to take contemporary fashion from India abroad. The active support of thecouncil is instrumental in sensitizing international fashion scene and projecting transitional Indian fashion overseas." 

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Europe:Scarves set to make a big come back in winter

 

The up-coming season of winter is a time for scarves. Serving two-fold purpose of keeping the wearer warm as well as serving a fashion need, no wonder scarves are a preferred accessory for women. With a unique style, and fashion feature, scarves add more colours and are lively in the rather drab winters.

Elegant shawl style scarves exhibit women femininity and elegance. They can be easily transformed with many patterns. Either simply worn around the neck or just casually crossed in the front, they are a popular craze. Long size scarves are a preferred fashion wear for the Europeans.

There are no standard code for fashion scarves on how to select scarves and how to wear scarves. As long as a scarf matches with the costume and the wearer, it will gain complements from friends and others.

Click here to read the complete article.
 

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USA:TLГ© Designs to be featured on Bella Petite Hour Radio Show

 

Women’s petite fashion designer Teresa Le, founder of TLe Designs will be the featured guest on The Bella Petite Hour radio show as fashion month continues during November on The Bella Petite Hour. The live radio appearance, hosted by Ann Lauren, will be Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 10 am PST.

TLГ© will be giving details about what inspired her to move from the corporate world, achieve her MBA, and into establishing her own fashion-forward clothing line designed especially for petite women. She will also be discussing her expertise in the fashion industry and providing insight into her future plans for TLГ© Designs.

“This is an exciting opportunity to reach thousands of listeners who are petite and to promote the petite fashion industry,” says TLГ©. “But this goes beyond just fashion. I am trying to change how petites view themselves and how others view them. It’s not only about beauty and fashion but more importantly self-esteem and self-acceptance in what people may consider beautiful and вЂthe norm’.”

Bella Petite was founded by petite model Ann Lauren. Featured in over 500 newspapers, radio, and television interviews nationwide, Lauren is considered the foremost expert in petite fashion, modeling and attitudes. Bella Petite is a fashion forward, cutting edge web community and publication that aligns the petite woman’s image to the fashion fore front to break down height stereo-types and to promote the petite woman’s image to the mainstream media.

TLГ© Designs is a hip and fashion-forward clothing line for petite women 5’4” and under. The line features dresses and tops with a hip, contemporary vibe for the modern woman who has the panache to incorporate prints and color into her wardrobe. Each item is available in limited amounts making each piece chic and unique. 

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Asia:14th edition of Cosmoprof Asia - a successful event

 

Cosmoprof Asia 2009 closed its doors with renewed enthusiasm for the Asian beauty industry thanks to the incredible success experienced by exhibitors and visitors. 1,412 exhibiting companies (up 4.05% on 2008 numbers) took up a total exhibition area of 52,000 sqm. As in years past, Cosmoprof Asia attracted many new exhibitors and innovative brands in addition to established industry leaders such as Alcan, Axilone, Baralan, DuPont, Fiabila, HCP, Yonwoo, Academie, Germaine De Capuccini, Klapp, LPG, Vagheggi, BaByliss, Lakme, Takara Belmont, Wahl, Aska, Giffarine, Ones, OPI and many more.

The exhibition drew more than 41,000 quality attendees (4% increase over 2008) over the three show days, and recorded a 8% increase in overseas visitors, with growth coming especially from Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Russian Federation, Spain, UK), the Middle East, North America and the Asia Pacific region, further demonstrating the international profile of the event.

The excellent exhibitor and visitor response proved once again the importance of Cosmoprof Asia for the beauty business, particularly in these times of uncertain market conditions, as well as the resilience of the Asian beauty and wellness market, reaffirming the event’s importance as a platform to clinch new business deals and secure strategic partnerships.

The greatest endorsement came from government agencies, which acknowledged Cosmoprof Asia as the definitive event with a proven successful track record for new business by their continual support to small and medium-sized companies to participate in the fair.

Through intense collaborations with countries seeking to expand their foreign trade in beauty, Cosmoprof Asia dedicated special sections on the show floor to 18 national and group pavilions: Australia, Mainland China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, UK , USA and the inaugural Polish group participation.

Taking note of the ever-growing strength of emerging markets, Cosmoprof Asia continued its commitment to the International Buyer Programme which was launched in 2007. A Cosmoprof exclusive, the International Buyer Programme unites buyers and sellers from around the world with the resources, contacts, and data to create business. For the third year, beauty and cosmetics companies showcasing their products at Cosmoprof Asia were offered the opportunity to meet with a group of selected key-buyers from strategic growth markets around the globe. For this edition, the organisers selected India, China and Russia as the main focus. More than 100 pre-arranged business meeting took place between exhibitors and the hosted buyers.

The first BaByliss PRO Asian Hair Competition
BaByliss PRO on Stage was held in Hong Kong this year on occasion of Cosmoprof Asia,which was selected to host this prestigious event. At this final stop of the BaByliss Pro Asian tour,winners from local country competitions like Mainland China, Indonesia,Malaysia and Thailand vied for the top place in styling creativity and talent. Jim Roberts, Show and Education Director from RUSK, judged the competition and presented the latest styling techniques.
 

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UAE:Bride Show returns offering the ultimate girls’ day out

 

With consumer confidence rapidly increasing and a strong economic outlook for Abu Dhabi and the UAE, The Bride Show Abu Dhabi is the perfect place for retailers to ring in the new year and jumpstart their sales in 2010.

The largest fashion and wedding event in the capital, The Bride Show Abu Dhabi will return to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 10 to 13 February. Despite the difficulties of the global economic downturn, exhibitors at last year’s event recorded strong sales and a resilient group of visitors spending money.

Women in this region spare no expense for their big day; the average cost of a UAE wedding is now AED300,000, according to latest research conducted at The Bride Show.

And early indications allude to a bigger and more successful 2010 event. The Bride Show’s fashion shows are one of the exhibition’s main draws, and designers have signed up early to stake out a slot on the catwalk, with 70 per cent of the shows already booked.

Floor space at the show has increased by 15 per cent since 2009 and organisers are predicting a record number of exhibitors; 46 per cent has already been committed to local, regional and international businesses who want to reach out to fashion-savvy and cash-rich women.

The Bride Show Abu Dhabi will this year mark the launch of an exciting new event. Women’s World Live will run alongside The Bride Show with a focus on beauty, fashion, leisure and lifestyle for the modern woman.

Featuring make-overs, live demonstrations and daily prize draws, Women’s World Live will be a perfect destination for ladies looking to experience the ultimate girl’s day out.

Lucy Clarke, Exhibition Director for The Bride Show, said: “Despite a challenging economic climate last year, we had excellent turnout from brides-to-be eager to browse and buy ahead of their nuptials, and our exhibitors recorded consistent sales across the board.”

“This year, we’re expecting an increased interest in extravagant bridal and evening fashion, as our visitors have renewed confidence to spend in the thriving Abu Dhabi economy. The launch of Women’s World Live will significantly boost the show’s profile and attract more visitors, adding a new dimension of luxury and lifestyle that caters to every need, want and whim of the modern woman interested in beauty and wellness.”

The Bride Show Abu Dhabi is the largest wedding and fashion event in the capital; the 2009 event brought together more than 200 wedding industry experts and suppliers from around the world for a style extravaganza. With more fashion shows than any other event in the capital, brides-to-be, their friends and family can seek inspiration from 14 fashion shows, over four days, from some of the region’s most renowned designers.

The Bride Show Abu Dhabi will be the first must-attend event for brides-to-be and fashion-conscious women in 2010, and will be followed by The Bride Show Dubai from 7 to 10 April 2010 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre. 

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USA:Stella McCartney plans for second babyGap collection

 

GapKids and babyGap, two of the most recognized names in children’s apparel, announced plans for a second collection created for Gap by Stella McCartney. Expected to launch in March 2010, the collection will be carried in select GapKids and babyGap stores in the United States and Canada, the UK, France and Ireland, and Japan, as well as online in the US. In addition the collection will be available in selected stores in Russia, Turkey, Greece, Asia and the Middle East.

“We’re pleased and encouraged by the response to our first collection working with Stella,” said Marka Hansen, President of Gap brand. “The combination of her unique aesthetic and our brand’s experience in childrenswear has resonated with our customers around the world, with certain styles including the Miller jacket being a sellout success. We’re thrilled to be working with Stella on a Spring collection.”

Stella McCartney launched her own fashion house under her name in 2001 in a joint venture with Gucci Group. A lifelong vegetarian, Stella McCartney does not use any leather or fur in her designs. The brand’s luxury women's ready-to-wear, shoes, bags, fragrances, eyewear, accessories, CARE skin care range and performance range with adidas is available through 14 flagship stores including London, NY, Los Angeles, Shanghai, Tokyo, Beijing, Hong Kong and Paris as well around 600 wholesale accounts in key cities worldwide.

Gap Inc. is a leading global specialty retailer offering clothing, accessories and personal care products for men, women, children and babies under the Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Piperlime and Athleta brand names. Fiscal 2008 sales were $14.5 billion. Gap Inc. operates more than 3,100 stores in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Japan and Ireland. In addition, Gap Inc. is expanding its international presence with franchise agreements in Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. 

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USA:DKNY & HSN launch gift giving collection for St. Jude children

 

Iconic denim brand DKNY JEANS and multi-channel retailer HSN announce the launch of a capsule gift giving collection offered exclusively on HSN and HSN.com for the holiday season. This collection is inspired by and designed for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital's Thanks and Giving Program, a holiday fundraising and awareness program which encourages consumers to "give thanks for the healthy kids in your lives and to give to those who are not." Funds raised from the Thanks and Giving program benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, one of the world's premier centers for the research and treatment of pediatric cancer and other catastrophic childhood diseases.

This special capsule includes statement tees and scarves, sweaters, jeans, and track suits in an array of colors. This collection features brand sensibilities of both DKNY JEANS and St. Jude's by fusing iconic elements of New York and key St. Jude heritage words, HOPE, BELIEVE and DREAM.

"We are thrilled that DKNY JEANS in partnership with HSN is providing support to our annual Thanks and Giving campaign," said Marlo Thomas, National Outreach Director. Their dedication to the campaign will make an enormous difference in the lives of so many children and their families in communities across the country. Partners like HSN and DKNY JEANS will enable us to carry on our mission that no child should die in the dawn of life."

Mark Weber, Chairman and CEO of Donna Karan International says, "DKNY JEANS has been a long term supporter of the St Jude mission. Marlo Thomas' effort to bring contributors to a higher level of involvement is wonderful and we are pleased to make that commitment. For this purpose we are happy to partner with HSN in order to raise funds and awareness to help the children and families of this extraordinary hospital."

"HSN is pleased to continue our annual tradition of supporting St. Jude through the Thanks and Giving campaign," stated Mindy Grossman, CEO of HSN, Inc. "St. Jude does great work and has become one of the highlights of the holiday season at HSN - for our customers and our employees. This year, we are excited to include DKNY JEANS in the campaign which will help even more children get the care they need." 

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USA:Irina Shabayeva is the winner of Season Six of Project Runway

 

After showing a city-warrior inspired, 13-piece collection at Bryant Park during Fashion Week, Irina Shabayeva has been named the winner of Season Six of Project Runway and her model, Kalyn Hemphill, earns the coveted title of last model standing on Models of the Runway. Beating out fellow designers Carol Hannah Whitfield and Althea Harper, Shabayeva was praised for her masterfully crafted, modern and sleek looks by host Heidi Klum, judges Michael Kors and Nina Garcia and guest judge, international fashion journalist Suzy Menkes, to claim the top spot. Shabayeva walks off the Project Runway catwalk with a $100,000 cash prize furnished by L'Oreal Paris, a trip to Paris from Evian and a fashion spread in Marie Claire Magazine's February 2010 issue. Joining Shabayeva for the feature spread will be Hemphill, who also receives $25,000 from Garnier Skin Genesis.

Recently nominated for its first ever People's Choice Award for TV Competition Series, Project Runway, will return to the Big Apple for Season Seven, premiering on Thursday, January 14, 2010, at 10PM ET/PT. With the guidance of mentor Tim Gunn, the new crop of designers head back to Parsons and Mood and set out to prove they have the creative and couture chops that will impress Klum, Kors and Garcia or face being "auf'ed."

Season Seven, filmed entirely in New York, will feature influential guest judges from the worlds of fashion, film and television. Season Seven also marks the first time the show has ever been shot and distributed in High-Definition. All future seasons of Project Runway and Models of the Runway will also be shot and distributed in HD, where available.

Immediately following Project Runway, Season Two of Models of the Runway, will air at 11:00PM ET/PT, beginning January 14, 2010. Each 30-minute episode gives fans a behind-the-"seams" look at the reality competition - from the models' perspective. Next season, tensions will run high when loyalty is thrown out the window by the designers when choosing their models. With more game play and unprecedented model swapping, who will make it to the finale at Bryant Park? 

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India:Lifestyle A/W collection mirrors вЂGlobal Fashion’

 

This season, set out on a journey of rediscovery as Lifestyle launches its AW 09 collection which promises to have fun and youthful elements like Edgy fashion, chic designs, bold hues and more. On offer are six exciting ranges of diverse fashion to choose from:

Collection Highlights:
Ginger: Calls out to the young, sprightly & flirty women with super cool fashion that says вЂI belong’. Hot, seductive and bold, best describe this collection which has specs of modern, retro, floral and artistic graphics in its line of tops, denims, leggings, jackets & footwear. The collection is sure going to be a hot favourite amongst the girls who like to flaunt their attitude with style.

The brand has also introduced a diverse, eclectic, and trendy array of accessories complimenting the apparel line. The range offers bracelets, ear rings, Necklace, Hair accessories, Rings and Baby accessories.

Code: Presents the cosmopolitan Indian male or female the choice of dressing offering a definitive edge in the corporate jungle.The collection comprises of an exciting range of Formal & Casual wear, inspired by colour stories, unique styling and global trends, in vibrant and youthful colours with a dash of class to it. The women wear line comprises evening dresses, nightwear and fashion accessories while the men’s wear comprises shirts, trousers, jackets, footwear, belts, ties.

Club Hoppers: Specially designed for urban males who believe in working hard and partying harder! This rich & super stylish collection has just the perfect touch of bling which can be worn all through the day and works perfectly for the night as well. Reinforced with impeccable club styling and tailored construction, the collection is dominated by winter colours. Comprising of ties, shirt, trousers, t-shirts, waist coats, Belts& Shoes.

Fame Forever: Super cool and super hip, Fame Forever has ayouthful spirit to it and consist of trendy, colourful and funky casual clothes for men and woman. Offering clothes in a vibrant and kaleidoscopic range of colours, the AW09 collection has a feel of fun and frolic to it. Comprising of t-shirts and Denims.

Forca: Once you adorn a Forca, edginess & irreverencetakes over. The cool denim brand is perfect for men who are youthful while being evolved & self assured. The collection is inspired from new technologies, alternate sports and music and a well defined adaptation of the latest in street fashion,comfortable, easy to wear and in touch with their surroundings.The collection comprises of t-shirts, shirts, denims, footwear, belts & fashion accessories.

Melange: Offers a mix & match contemporary ethnic adornment for women, to dazzle the evenings. This collection comprises of an exclusive line of ethnic wear for women with a modern and contemporary look. The collection entails acombination of hand block printing and exquisite hand embroideries with the use of pure fabrics like silks, chiffons, georgettes etc in vibrant-to-soothing shades. The brand has also recently launched вЂMelange Sarees’ across select stores incotton, silk, chiffons and georgettes. The collection comprises Salwar Kamiz, Dupatta & Kurtis.

The Landmark Group, founded in 1973 with a single store in Bahrain, has grown into one of the largest retail conglomerates in the Middle East and is expanding rapidly in India. 

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USA:Love's Embrace, perfect symbol of the comfort

 

Now you can surround her with the strength of your love, with Love's Embrace, a new jewelry collection from Kay Jewelers. In its unique design, a brilliant solitaire is encircled by an elegant precious metal swirl that symbolizes the comfort we get from love's embrace. It is a reminder that no matter what life brings, you are always surrounded by love. The new collection is available online and in all Kay stores across the country, just in time for the holidays.

Love's Embrace is an exclusively designed collection with the romantic and enduring message, "You will always be surrounded by the strength of my love." You can celebrate the power of your love with a diamond, a symbol of constancy and strength, wrapped in 10 or 14 karat gold, or sterling silver. It is the perfect symbol of the comfort we get from love's strength.

Classic, timeless designs are crafted into necklaces, earrings and rings.

"A gift from the Love's Embrace collection is the perfect way for a couple to express their everlasting love to one another. It says our love gives me security and strength because in this changing world around us, it gives me hope and faith for the future," said Dawn McGuire, Kay Jewelers' Vice President of Merchandising. "It is truly a design for today and for all time, and it's the perfect gift this holiday season to show your loved that no matter what life brings, you are always surrounded by my love." 

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USA:Sea Dubai on your wrist

 

Based in the Swiss Jura and with a horological story studded with successes and invention that remain unrivalled even to this day, the watch manufacturer, Edox, is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2009.

Since 2008, Edox has been the official partner of the Dubai International Marine Club, a dynamic sailing club that hosts almost 180 events per year. Undoubtedly one of its best representatives is the Sea Dubai, a magnificent class RC44 yacht.

The Grand Ocean Collection is a classic and timeless name, with the second limited edition, dedicated to the crew of the sailing yacht, Sea Dubai, reflecting its continuing expansion. This Super Limited Edition embodies the sporting spirit of the regatta, a glorious blend of courtesy, fair play, sportsmanship and courage.

The generous 45 mm case remains unchanged, retaining the lines and appeal of the Grand Ocean Collection with its now famous notched bezel. But this time, the watchcase is coated in black PVD to emphasis the enigmatic element of the new model. Proudly sporting a blue 44, the symbol of the class, the black carbon dial is an elegant tribute to the Sea Dubai. The profiled sails and indices, hand applied in blue and nickel, highlight the maritime character of this new watch. The engraving on the case back has been reinterpreted, with a motif representing unfurled gennakers, the serial numbering and the name of the watch. That essential hallmark of the Grand Ocean Collection, the famous porthole aperture that affords an in-depth view of the watch's magnificent mechanism, has not been forgotten and provides the perfect finishing touch to the new Sea Dubai Super Limited Edition.

The limited edition number will be engraved on a plate affixed to the side of the watchcase.

The final and striking feature is the black rubber strap, easy to wear and resistant to salty sea spray. It lends a touch of supreme classicism and masculine elegance. Fitted with an Edox 94 mechanical caliber, the power reserve has a blue gauge on the dial, and the watch is water resistant to 44 meters.

The new Sea Dubai Super Limited Edition is limited to 244 pieces worldwide and is presented in a splendid wooden box with a porthole aperture. 

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USA:Redesigned Swarovski Star for Rockefeller Christmas Tree

 

Swarovski, the leading producer of crystal stones and crystal fashion jewelry, today unveiled the newly refurbished crystal star that will crown the 2009 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Nadja Swarovski, Vice President of International Communications, and Thomas Madden, Managing Director of Tishman Speyer, co-owners of Rockefeller Center, were on hand to reveal the enhancements to the star, which include a cutting-edge computerized new lighting system with energy-efficient LED bulbs.

The star's 12 rays are outfitted with 720 LED bulbs on 3,000 feet of wire to create a dazzling, twinkling effect through customized light sequencing programmed by a complex computer system. This is the first year that the Swarovski star, which debuted at the top of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in 2004, will feature dynamic light movement.

A team of nine artisans and engineers spent three months employing a unique combination of art, science and technology to complete the new design. The team spent 1,200 hours installing, programming and testing the star to ensure the effects would withstand the challenging winter weather conditions 76-feet above Rockefeller Center.

The Swarovski star is comprised of 25,000 crystals, with 1,000,000 facets, measures 9 1/2 feet in diameter and is 1 1/2 feet deep. Weighing 550 pounds -- including 300 pounds of crystal panels -- it is composed of six outer rays and six smaller inner rays. The main surfaces of the rays are made of point-mounted safety glass, the same shatter-proof glass that adorns the facades of New York City buildings. The crystals are affixed to the inner sides of the glass in a tight, scale-like pattern to ensure maximum brilliance.

"The redesign of the star exemplifies the Swarovski tradition of blending innovation with timeless elegance," said Nadja Swarovski. "We are proud to continue to enhance the star's beauty and to share our vision with visitors to Rockefeller Center from around the world."

"We are pleased to once again partner with Swarovski to present New Yorkers and visitors alike with a magnificent symbol of the holidays at Rockefeller Center," said Thomas Madden, Managing Director of Tishman Speyer. "The new elements to the star are sure to dazzle the millions who visit the iconic tree each year."

The Swarovski Star now sits atop the 76-foot-high, 40-foot wide, over 10-ton Norway Spruce from the home of Maria Corti. An exact replica of the Swarovski Star will also be on display in Rockefeller Center to allow visitors the opportunity to get a closer view of the detailing and craftsmanship.

In addition to the redesign of the star, Swarovski will offer a selection of holiday jewelry and ornaments on sale at the Swarovski holiday kiosk at Rockefeller Center, at Swarovski boutiques nationwide and online at www.Swarovski.com. The collection includes stylish star-themed crystal jewelry and an Annual Edition Ornament.

The 77th Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, December 2nd, from 7 P.M.-9 P.M. The two-hour ceremony will be televised live, locally on WNBC-TV from 7 PM-8 PM and nationally on NBC from 8 P.M.-9 P.M.

Rockefeller Center officially began the Tree Lighting Ceremony in 1933, when a Christmas tree was erected in front of the then-RCA Building and covered with 700 lights. Christmas trees in Rockefeller Center have ranged from 50-foot Pines to 100-foot Norway Spruces and are viewed by millions of spectators during the holiday season. 

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UK:Taiwanese Nikki wins a Day with Shoe Guru Jimmy Choo

 

A Footwear Design student from De Montfort University in Leicester, United Kingdom has won the chance of a lifetime to spend the day with the world’s greatest shoe guru.

I Cheng (Nikki) Lin, 21, from Taichung City in Taiwan, met celebrity shoe designer Professor Jimmy Choo OBE when he visited DMU last week to give a masterclass to the University’s footwear students.

In recognition of her exemplary studentship and promise in footwear design, Nikki was chosen the winner of a full-day workshop with Choo at his Couture House in London, UK.

Choo said: “We want to give Nikki the idea of how the whole process of couture works from start to finish. We will show her what is important with the care of the client, and right through every stage of design and creating.”

Nikki, who is in her final year at DMU, added: “It hasn’t really sunk in yet that I am going to spend a day with one of the world’s most iconic shoe designers. This is an opportunity any aspiring footwear designer would dream of, so I’m really thrilled that I have been given the chance to gain first-hand experience from someone who has been so successful within the industry.

“This will be a learning experience I’ll never forget and I’m certain I will take away with me some invaluable advice that will help launch my career as a shoe designer.”

DMU’s unique BA Footwear Design course is the only specialist footwear degree in the UK and has won support from Choo, who also holds an Honorary Doctorate from the University.

Dr Gerard Moran, Dean of Faculty of Art and Design at DMU, said: “We know that our students are among the best in the world at what they do. So it’s truly inspiring for them to have the chance to meet someone who is known across the globe for his achievements in footwear and couture.”

Commenting on why he was willing to give the masterclass for DMU’s students, Choo added: “Education is very important. It is very important that everyone understands how much education makes a difference.”

He has also recently delivered seminars at the British Council Education Fair in Taipei, Taiwan where he talked about his career in fashion and shared his experiences of industry development in the UK.

Choo was born in Penang, Malaysia into a family of shoemakers, making his first shoe at only 11 years old.

His determination to follow in his fathers' footsteps and master the art of shoe design saw him arrive in London where he established his couture label in 1986. His made-to-order designs include an extensive range of bespoke handmade women’s shoes, which are favoured by international stars worldwide. 

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USA:Holiday 2009: decorating your home with fragrance

 

We've cocooned and vegged out. We've tried the couch potato method. We've "staycationed" instead of vacationing. We've turned the humble barbecue into a gourmet, built-in outdoor kitchen. The message from all of this? Home is where the heart is and this holiday season, home is the place to be.

When it comes to holiday decor, think out of the tinsel-and-ornaments box with a whole different approach to decorating your home for the holidays. What could be more "scentsational" and creative than decorating each room of your house with a different fragrance that sets a holiday mood? According to The Fragrance Foundation, nothing could be more enjoyable, simple, or, in today's budget-conscious mode, affordable. "A scented candle or room spray can instantly transform a room or create a mood," explains Rochelle Bloom, President of The Fragrance Foundation. "Forget the old-style sixties joss- sticks or those bad-odor concealing sprays. Today's home fragrances come in many forms and an infinite variety of scents."

Room by Room Decorating with Fragrance:

•Hang lots of small wreaths on the doors, entrance and hallway. Pine or eucalyptus scents, studded with apples and lemons, mix and mingle to welcome friends and family with a green, alpine scent.
•The Family Room doesn't have to smell like an locker room! Reed Diffusers emitting a gentle aroma of clean spring rain will please everyone.
•The Bedroom. Everything looks better by candlelight! Scented candles are so romantic. Coordinate with linen sprays and drawer liners to create a haven for grown-ups.
•Turn the bathroom into a spa room. Essential oils, fragrance warmers, soft towels and lots of bubble bath. Rest, relax and enjoy as the scents float you far, far away.
•Kid's rooms. Melon scented room sprays will keep them happy and in a sunny mood.
•Kitchen. While all the great cooking and baking smells don't need adding to, keep a tube of hand cream near to soften up hands after the cleaning, scraping and dishwashing.

Here are some classic and some unusual scents that can be found in all sorts of home fragrance products: apple, grapefruit, mocha, strudel, lavender, wisteria, green tea, vanilla, patchouli, eucalyptus, sandalwood, jasmine, mint, sage, ginger, melon, rose.

So don't fret at over-decking the halls ... a candle here, a spray there is all you need this holiday season. 

USA:Sixth Sense perfume to retail on Home Shopping Network

Portugal:Nuance JV LFP is вЂTop Commercial Company in Portugal’

 

Lojas Francas de Portugal is ranked number one in the commercial field among the 500 biggest & best companies in Portugal. The conclusion was reached by Exame magazine, based on a series of indicators and economic and financial ratios, with which the profile of the main companies in their respective fields are traced. According to the magazine, the purpose of this study is to measure the performance and dynamism of each company, and its contribution to national wealth.

LFP was created in 1995 as a joint venture between TAP (Portugal’s leading airline) holding 51 per cent and The Nuance Group (leading airport retailers in the world) holding 49 per cent. The company leads the retail sector in Portuguese airports, managing and operating 18 establishments in the Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Ponta Delgada, Santa Maria and Horta airports. LFP also controls the onboard sales for TAP and STP Airways flights.

LFP’s activities are presented in the 2009 special edition of “EXAME – 500 Biggest & Best”, highlighting the company’s good results, which can be traced back to the “introduction of various measures to stir the commercial waters, and optimise and increase efficiency”, making way for growth in the region of 20 per cent in 2008, “a year marked by a negative economic trend”.

Nuno Amaral, CEO for LFP, explains that the commitment of the company’s employees was instrumental in obtaining these results. At the same time, “plans to improve internal efficiency and productivity and to reduce costs” were also implemented. Exame magazine goes on to describe LFP’s work promoting higher efficiency in terms of negotiations with suppliers, an increase in investment in marketing and the development of a curriculum for internal training aimed at the needs of the client. The effort to revamp the company’s image and shops, the opening of new venues and investment in new flows of passengers is also underlined.

2008 saw the launching of LFP’s new brand, aimed at three different sectors: Just for Travellers “Your journey starts here” for the main shops (traditionally referred to as Duty Free); Just Taste Portugal, for areas dedicated to the best that Portugal has to offer (regional products); and Just Luxury for fashion and luxury items.

LFP had already been named leading company in the retail sector, relative to turnover per sales area (in square meters) and per employee, in 2008 by the Portuguese Association of Retail Distributors. 

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Sweden:Maximise party look - make a statement with H&M collection

 

Party season is the time for letting your imagination run wild, especially with the shoes, boots and accessories that are making all the noise at H&M. High platform heels come in vivid colour blocks or shimmering brocade, while metallic pumps have added drama with their jewelled cone heel.

There’s even a gold trimmed version of this year’s must-have gladiator heel. Boots are big news right now, and for this season you can find the perfect thigh-high grey suede heeled boot, snakeskin platform cutaway boots and some tough lace-up boots with a sky-high heel. As far as bags go, clutches really come into their own for parties, along with small framed bags and small bags with a chain strap. Big necklaces are the secret fashion weapon this winter, with chic knots of gold or decadent silver tassels contrasted with gem stones, while bangles, brooches, scarves and gloves confirm the point that more really is more.

“All for children”- H&M teams up with UNICEF to help protect children’s rights in India
H&M is proud to announce a new five-year project with UNICEF called All for Children, backed by a $4.5million donation from H&M, to help improve the lives of children in one of the most disadvantaged cotton-growing communities in the world. The long-term aim is to ensure children’s rights. H&M customers can help too by buying an exclusive bag designed by Sonia Rykiel.

The project is focused on the children in the Salem and Dharmapuri districts in Tamil Nadu, on the southern tip of India. H&M takes a clear stance against child labour, and the goal of the initiative is to lift children out of work and into education, while also providing them with health and nutrition care, and building a protective environment to help prevent child labour.

The project is the longest and most wide-reaching initiative H&M has ever undertaken with UNICEF. It will work on concurrent strategies including child protection structures, education, community mobilisation, social protection and health and nutrition services. It will focus on children from vulnerable families and children who are working in cotton fields and in other areas of employment.

To raise funds for UNICEF, Sonia Rykiel has designed a bag made from organic cotton exclusively for H&M. Available in approximately 1,500 stores from 5 December, 30% of the price of the bag will be donated to UNICEF. It is the first in a series of bags designed to raise funds for UNICEF and H&M’s All for Children project.

“I am really pleased that after years of planning and research, the All for Children project is now off the ground,” says H&M’s CSR Manager Ingrid Schullström. “Over the next five years H&M and UNICEF will work together to create a better and healthier future for the children in this region, preventing child labour and promoting access to good education." Meanwhile, the Deputy Executive Director of UNICEF Sweden, Anna Ryott, says.

“Together with UNICEF,H&M is taking decisive action to help lift children and their families out of poverty and thus tackle the source of child labour.”
 

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USA:Riverside carries FiveFingers glove-styled footwear line

 

Riverside Kayak Connection, LLC is adding the unique glove-styled FiveFingers to its footwear line. Designed by Vibram, the worldwide leader in high performance footwear soles, FiveFingers is the first and only footwear to offer the exhilarating freedom of going barefoot with the protection and surefooted grip of a Vibram sole. Riverside Kayak Connection, LLC is currently carrying the FiveFingers KSO and Flow styles designed for paddle sports, but can also special order any size or style to fit your needs.

The first and only footwear to offer the exhilarating freedom of going barefoot with the protection and surefooted grip of a Vibram sole, putting the user more in touch with his or her natural surroundings. Wearing FiveFingers can improve balance, agility, and general foot health. And, using FiveFingers as an after sport recovery shoe, can reduce potential injuries by strengthening foot muscles while improving range of motion.

“FiveFingers has taken on a life of its own, as athletes from a variety of outdoor sports embrace the benefits of barefooting,” explained Tony Post, president, Vibram USA. “Whatever your sport or activity, FiveFingers liberates your body to move in a healthy, more natural way.”

Each style features a patent-pending Vibram non-marking outsole designed to follow the contours and flex points of the foot and toes with razor-siping for a sure grip on wet, slippery surfaces. The inner footbed utilizes the Aegis Microbe Shieldв„ў inert antimicrobial application that kills odor-causing microbes without any adverse environmental impact.

Riverside Kayak Connection, LLC is Michigan’s premier paddle sports shop. Located in Wyandotte, MI, the shop carries a wide assortment of kayaks and canoes, paddling accessories, classes, tours and clinics throughout the year. Stop by the shop to try on your own FiveFingers and check out all RKC has to offer. 

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Singapore:Couture Couture makes its Singapore debut with N-W at Changi Airport

 

Nuance-Watson is pleased to announce yet another brand launch ahead of downtown department stores. Couture Couture, Juicy Couture’s new fragrance line, is now available at Nuance-Watson's Perfumes & Cosmetics stores at Singapore Changi Airport.

Fans of this fun, colourful brand can now get their hands on Couture Couture EDP spray, frothy shower gel, body lotion and sugar body scrub. The EDP spray breaks all the style rules: a delicious eau de parfum in a sparkling flacon, zipped up with Juicy J and Love G&P charms and a shiny, golden cap. Inside, pink grapes make mischief with orange flower, mandarin, blushed plum, honeysuckle and sandalwood.

Chillie Por, Category Manager of Perfumes & Cosmetics says: “Juicy Couture is an up- and-coming cult brand gaining recognition in Singapore, and the addition of the luxury Couture Couture line will reinforce the presence of niche brands in our fragrance category. Juicy Couture definitely has tremendous potential in travel retail similar to its already successful and established fashion houses in Asia Pacific markets.”

Originally known for its tracksuits, Juicy Couture, founded in 1996, has evolved into a multi million dollar lifestyle brand. The power duo behind the brand – co-founders and creative directors Gela Nash-Taylor and Pamela Skaist-Levy – are constantly developing new categories and widening the Juicy Couture umbrella. Gela is married to John Taylor of Duran Duran and Pamela is married to writer/director/producer Jeffery Levy.

Nuance-Watsonis a joint venture between The Nuance Group and leading Chinese retailer A.S. Watson, Nuance-Watson is an award-winning travel retail operator. The company manages the Perfumes & Cosmetics concession, and seven other non-beauty related retail stores including the first ever FIFA Official Store at Singapore Changi Airport. Since its inception in September 2001, the company takes claims to numerous industry recognised accolades such as the DFNI Awards for “Travel Retailer of the Year in Asia-Pacific” for three consecutive years. 

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USA:Celebration of Business of Fashion

 

Lauren Bush and Ellen Gustafson, the co-founders of FEED Projects, a New York-based small business whose mission is to create good products to FEED a better world, has joined forces with New York Entrepreneur Week and Independent Retail Week: New York for a special shopping event on Tuesday, November 17th at Plaza Too in New York City. The event is being held to celebrate the FEED Bags and Bears.

November 14-20, 2009 highlights the partnership between New York Entrepreneur Week (NYEW) and Nolcha's Independent Retail Week: New York. Together, these two organizations have developed a revolutionary movement for supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout New York. As young female social entrepreneurs, Lauren and Ellen of FEED Projects believe participation in NYEW and Independent Retail Week: New York will elevate the awareness of, and opportunities for, small fashion businesses like FEED. The two young women co-founded FEED with only one product, Lauren's brainchild: the FEED 1 bag. Since 2007, they have sold over 500,000 FEED bags and raised over $5.5 million for UN World Food Program school feeding efforts around the world.

"Ellen and Lauren are grabbing the opportunities this multi-tiered week-long movement provides by supporting local entrepreneurs as well as sharing their expertise with aspiring business owners," said Kerry Bannigan, CEO Nolcha. "It is important to support fellow business owners in all aspects of the business world: learning, giving back and growing."

Ellen will be speaking at New York Entrepreneur Week on Thursday, November 19th on a panel titled "Connecting With and Selling to the Executive Suite" with other influential entrepreneurs within the retail and sales sectors. She states, "As a participant of New York Entrepreneur Week I will not only be giving back to the business world but also gaining insight from top business owners who've come to this event from around the world; this is invaluable to FEED and myself as a young business woman."

"Starting a social business in New York has been exciting and challenging; which is precisely the reason it's so important for us to partner and collaborate with the New York entrepreneurial and retail communities," said Lauren Bush. "Furthermore, being a part of Nolcha's Independent Retail Week is important to us as a small charitable company since we can celebrate our mission with supporting retailers, such as Plaza Too, who sell FEED products."

New York Entrepreneur Week and Independent Retail Week
Tuesday November 17th 2009. Including handbag preview by Chako and Jess
Rizzuti.
7pm - 9pm | Plaza Too | 571 Hudson Street. 

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UK:Women to celebrate holidays in Roman Originals style

 

Roman Originals are having an exciting end to 2009. They have announced the launch of their new trendy accessories range, with a wonderful array of colourful clutch handbags and elegant ladies hats, perfect for the holiday season.

Like Roman Originals clothing ranges, their new range of womens handbags and womens hats have undergone the same rigorous testing to ensure that they meet the desired high quality standards expected. The range consists of vibrant beautifully made clutch bags made from fantastic fabrics and designs. Nevertheless, the handbag and hat ranges are not the only exciting new developments for affordable retailer Roman Originals.

Customers will be pleased to know none of their orders will be affected by the postal strikes. As of the 16th of November, Roman Originals will be offering Next day delivery within the UK, and will also commence international shipping.

Traditionally all Roman Originals ladies clothing and accessories were available in over 150 outlets across the United Kingdom. However, due to increasing demand for their well made garments, all Roman originals clothing and accessories are available internationally. Customers outside the UK will now be able to order online from Roman Originals just in time for the holiday season. On top of that, the company now offers free standard delivery for UK customers who spend as little as GBP45 on an order.

Customers visiting the site can also sign up to receive the Roman Originals catalogue. The catalogue is available on request to keep customers up-to-date with all the seasons' trends and latest garments from Roman Originals. For those who like to keep a close eye on fashion, there is also an email list to with the latest fashion news and details of their special offers.

For those that love fashion advice and tips, Roman Originals have also recently launched a weekly updated style and fashion blog. Their blog keep customers up to date with Roman Originals latest ventures not to mention all the latest trends, fashion advice, tips and tricks to help any women look and feel their very best.

By combining modern designs and quality fabrics, Roman Originals continues to produce women's clothing and accessories that are essential to creating a fully functional wardrobe; style, everyday comfort and practicality.  

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UK:Dr Cap adds 40 new styles for holiday season

 

Dr Cap is Britain’s largest independent stockist of New Era 59Fifty caps. The site has recently released one of its largest ever expansions on the New Era brand caps for the upcoming holidays. Over 40 new styles have been added to the company’s extensive offerings in a wide variety of colours and sizes.

The site’s general manager reports, “With the holidays quickly approaching, we wanted to make sure that we pretty much stock something for everyone. Here at Dr Cap, we try to keep our ears to the ground and our finger on the pulse of fashion trends. The newest additions to our New Era cap range were carefully selectedto match what’s on the holiday wish lists of our client base.”

“The 59FIFTYs that we sell are immediately available on the site,and with over a month to go until the вЂbig day,’ there’s plenty of time for buyers to take delivery of any cap they want to sharewith a loved one or for themselves.” 

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USA:Lustr Fashion Application launches with Nolcha

 

In celebration of its beta launch, Lustr is teaming up with Independent Retail Week: New York to bring its users and shoppersunprecedented access to fabulous boutiques.

Under the terms of the partnership, participating Independent Retail Week: New York stores, special promotions, and events willbe listed in Lustr and searchable via GPS through the application's clean, easy-to-use interface. The partnership reinforces and expands the companies' shared audience of upscale NYC shoppers and retailers. It also offers a new tool for shoppers who have an iPhone and want to search for stores by geographic location, product categories, brands carried, and merchandise price points.

"We are delighted to be launching Lustr as part of this exciting event," says Gary Ragusa, CEO of GRGMobile Solutions, Inc."Nolchashares GRG's mission of expanding retailers' marketing reach and effectiveness through best practices in marketing services and technology. We chose to work with Nolcha because of its strong reputation in the fashion industry and its special relationships with independent retailers that are consistent with the Lustr brand."

Independent Retail Week NYC is a week-long initiative-from Nov.14through Nov. 20 this year-that drives business and increases revenue for small retail businesses in fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Nolcha, the platform behind Independent Retail Week: New York, is a leading operator of educational, event and business-to-business services devoted to independent fashion entrepreneurs and related retail businesses.

"Nolcha is excited to introduce a cutting-edge technology for shoppers to enjoy a customized experience with local fashion boutiques during the holiday season," says Kerry Bannigan, CEO ofNolcha. "As always, Nolcha is looking for creative ways to increase business for fashion entrepreneurs; GRG is our first mobile partner and we look forward to their future support of independent retailers on our initiatives."

The "Ultimate Lustrous Goodie Bag" Sweepstakes offering a prize worth over $1500 will encourage Lustr users and Independent Retail Week: New York shoppers to engage the features of the application while visiting stores during the event. Shoppers are encouraged to download the application from the iTunes AppStore and use Lustr to develop a mobilized itinerary that meets their IRW shopping needs. 

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UK:Three couture fashion trends for your wrist

 

Freedom Watches is a newly launched online watch retailer selling brands like Seiko watches, Breil watches and Dolce and Gabbana watches. These three brands are uniquely different from one another – Seiko has forged its reputation on reliability and technical excellence, while Breil combines Italian styling with Swiss accuracy.

Dolce and Gabbana represents everything that is young and glamorous. But undoubtedly, buying and wearing designer clothes is beyond the budget of many and is the preserve of the rich and famous. A D&G gown may be out of your reach but a D&G watch gives you the opportunity to sport couture fashion at a fraction of the price.

Dolce and Gabbana has grown into an international fashion powerhouse, endorsed by Hollywood superstars and rockstars. It boasts a celebrity clientele including Madonna, Isabella Rossellini, Tom Cruise and David Beckham.

The brand was the brain child of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana who were inspired by designing and producing clothes and accessories for men and women. They were both established designers when they came together in 1985, going on to launch their first collection in March 1986. Their designs soon took off and they now have an international reputation selling products under two separate brand names, Dolce and Gabbana and D&G Dolce and Gabbana.

It's almost impossible to simply characterise the brand Dolce and Gabbana but it has been described as representing the "essence of the Mediterranean". The brand is synonymous with glamour and is considered the height of fashion.

Freedom Watches is an authorised dealer of several watch brands including Seiko, Breil and D&G. The team behind the website is made up of staff with experience in this area and has a thorough knowledge of the watch industry. Freedom Watches is committed to providing a professional service to all customers whilst offering competitive online prices. 

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USA:We Are Heroes endorses streetwear fashion

 

Streetwear company Wildchild Nation, LLC announces a new partnership with We Are Heroes, champions of season four of MTV's hit show, "America's Best Dance Crew." Wildchild Nation will provide online distribution of We Are Heroes' collection of garments and products as part of Threader, the first online urban clothing marketplace for the dance and entertainment industries.

Crew member Alison Iannucci said, "Winning MTV's 'America's Best Dance Crew' immediately opened the door to lots of opportunities for merchandising, but we immediately sought out Threader, as their reputation of success preceded them. It's been a pleasure working with the Threader team, and we're excited to be able to offer our fans a way to support and represent."

Wildchild Nation co-founder, Luam, commented, "As the first all-female crew to win ABDC, We Are Heroes has a unique opportunity to be able to inspire and positively affect the lives of all their fans. Helping them create streetwear and market it through Threader gives their fans a way to take a tangible piece of the crew home."

Wildchild Nation is working with We Are Heroes not only on distribution through Threader, but they also manufacture We Are Heroes' merchandise. "One of the benefits of working with Wildchild Nation is that they are a one-stop-shop for all of our merchandise needs -- from manufacturing to online distribution," crew member Riquel Olander said.

Wildchild Nation is a lifestyle urban clothing company based in New York City. Wildchild Nation's urban clothing brand, Wildchild, produces men's and women's quality, trend-right designs influenced by the Soho, urban wear, streetwear, and vintage markets. Their Threader brand is the first Website of its kind in the streetwear dance industry offering everything from basic fulfillment of products, warehousing and customer support to private labeled manufacturing of garments. 

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