France:PPR-Gucci teams combined to better support growth of brands

 

PPR announces a new organization of its Luxury Business Group. “ PPR pursues its strategic transformation into a global leader specializing in Apparel and in Accessories, around two Business Groups, Sports & Lifestyle on the one hand, Luxury on the other.”

“To carry out this strategy and support the continued growth of our brands, we have decided to put in place a new organizational structure. While preserving the autonomy of our brands, this new framework will enable them to better leverage the Group’s stature to reach their full growth potential. The model we have successfully implemented to develop our activities will gradually evolve into a better-integrated, more powerful Group. PPR will put all the resources and expertise it develops at the service of its Luxury and Sports & Lifestyle brands in order to nurture their continued growth,” noted François-Henri Pinault at the presentation of PPR’s 2010 results, held in Paris.

Each of the Luxury brand retains its autonomy under the responsibility of its respective CEO and Creative Director. The Luxury Business Group reports directly to François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of PPR. Alexis Babeau, who was previously COO of Gucci Group, has been appointed Deputy CEO of the Luxury Business Group.

This new organization, effective March 1, 2011, was conceived jointly with Robert Polet, CEO of Gucci Group since 2004, who will leave the PPR Group upon the successful completion of his mission. Under his leadership, each of PPR’s Luxury houses, headed by talented CEO and Creative Director duos, acquired the autonomy required to succeed while capturing significant synergies across brands. In seven years, on a comparable basis, the Luxury Business Group doubled its total revenues and more than tripled its operating profit.

“I would like to give Robert the warmest thank for his commitment and dedication in leading Gucci Group to where it is now. His many qualities and achievements have earned him the respect of all in the world of Luxury. Today, our Luxury Business Group has blossomed into an ensemble of superb, creative and independent brands achieving outstanding operational and financial performances,” added François-Henri Pinault.

PPR nurtures a group of high-growth global brands distributed in more than 120 countries. Through its Consumer and Luxury brands, PPR generated revenue of €14.6 billion in 2010, and had approximately 60,000 employees at December 31, 2010.  

Italy:Gucci releases third image for вЂForever Now’

India:Wills Lifestyle associates with Sabyasachi for first time ever!

 

Wills Lifestyle, ITC’s premium fashion brand, announced that Sabyasachi Mukherjee will be the designer for Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale at the forthcoming Autumn Winter 2011 edition of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, Asia’s biggest and India’s premiere fashion & trade event.

The fashion icon of India stands apart for his uniqueness in creating magic with his ideas of styling and design. This season the two pioneers in style and innovation come together to set new standards in novelty and fashion. Sabyasachi Mukherjee will be creating an exclusive collection for Wills Lifestyle that will be retailed from Wills Lifestyle stores across the country.

Atul Chand, Divisional Chief Executive - ITC’s Lifestyle Retailing Business Division, said, “Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale has always set new benchmarks in creativity and has showcased the best of Indian fashion talent. This year Wills Lifestyle is delighted to announce Sabyasachi Mukherjee as the Wills Lifestyle Grand Finale designer, for the first time. He is the perfect man with the creative bend of mind and with the deep sense of intellect. Sabyasachi will create magic on the ramp in his true signature style.”

“This season, we look forward to an interesting synergy between Sabyasachi and Wills Lifestyle with a blend of Indian tradition and international trends.”

Mr. Sunil Sethi, President, FDCI said, “We are glad that this year Sabyasachi Mukherjee will be closing the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week AW’11 with a befitting finale. We are confident that Sabyasachi will put forward a brilliant collection. We hope to celebrate this beautiful synergy between Wills Lifestyle and our designers and create the magic of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, yet again."

Speaking on the occasion Sabyasachi Mukherkee said, “It is indeed an honor and privilege to be the Wills Lifestyle grand finale designer. It is an event that has set certain benchmarks for the fashion industry and I look forward to presenting my collection at this significant platform.”

The Wills 'Lifestyle Grand Finale will take place on Sunday, April 10th, 2011 in New Delhi at Pragati Maidan.

ITC’s Wills Lifestyle has been established as a vibrant fashion brand for the premium consumer. Wills Lifestyle offers a complete lifestyle wardrobe for the premium consumer, incorporating the latest fashion trends for both men and women. A nationwide chain of exclusive specialty stores provides the Indian consumer a truly 'International Shopping Experience'. Currently there are 71 Wills Lifestyle stores in 37 cities across the country, and the brand is making rapid strides in terms of expansion.

Fashion Design Council of India: A not for profit organization FDCI is the apex fashion council of India. Represented by over 300 designers, FDCI takes Indian fashion global by promoting the 'business of fashion'. 

India:HKTDC announces Lifestyle Expo in Mumbai

UK:Kellan Lutz to design men’s clothing line

 

Kellan Lutz has recently said that he intends to design a men’s clothing line along with Daniel Guez, the creator of one of the leading denim labels Dylan George, under the sub-brand of Abbot & Main. He is likely to design a series of t-shirts, pants and cashmere knits.

Apart from collaborating with Daniel Guez for the new clothing line, Kellan will also be featuring in the Fall campaign of Dylan George. The actor-cum-model, who has modeled in the 2010 Calvin Klein X underwear campaign, has been selected for featuring the brand.

 

USA:Harry Potter star Emma Watson to introduce organic clothing

USA:Season 8 Project Runway designers’ presentation at Fashion Week El Paseo

 

Fashion Week El Paseo (March 20-28, 2011) will feature a thrilling evening of American popular culture with a runway show showcasing three Project Runway Season 8 contestants: Michael Costello, Mondo Guerra, and Christopher Collins. Each will present a new original collection on Wednesday, March 23, at 7 p.m.

Costello will present a dazzling new collection including 30 of his trademark evening gowns. Collins will show his latest collection of ready-to-wear that is featured in Neiman Marcus stores as well as other boutiques and stores in the United States, while Guerra will reveal 15 of his cutting-edge designs.

The event also features a special performance by Season 5 American Idol finalist Kimberly Locke, who will entertain and delight the audience during the evening.

The sixth annual Fashion Week El Paseo, produced by Palm Springs Life in partnership with the City of Palm Desert, is the premier West Coast fashion event, providing a week of high-quality fashion events for the consumer as well as the fashion industry. Other Fashion Week El Paseo sponsors include El Paseo Merchants Association, The Gardens on El Paseo, El Paseo Village, and El Paseo Jewelers.

Attendees will enjoy a week of fun and glamorous events — from makeup and hair makeovers at the Style & Beauty Bash to high-energy runway shows by Oliver Tolentino, Trina Turk, Saks Fifth Avenue, and top design students from FIDM/Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. The appearance by Costello, Collins, and Guerra adds an exciting evening of Project Runway Style. Fashion Week El Paseo runway events will benefit a variety of worthy charitable causes.

During the days, more than 60 in-store events on El Paseo — including trunk shows, informal modeling, fashion seminars, champagne receptions and more —showcase luxury brands and style trends. 

Bahamas:17 designers to hit IWFW 2010 Runway

USA:Playtime New York debuts the Playtime Pop-Up Shop

 

Opening its doors to the public for the first time, Playtime New York, the international trade show dedicated to the universes of children, junior and maternity, is hosting a Pop Up Shop during the show, March 5 – 7, 2011, at SoHo’s 82 Mercer (82 Mercer Street between Spring and Broome Streets, 9am – 6pm, 5pm the lastday).

Among the designers that will be featured at the Pop Up Shop are:
• Agua By Trash A Porter - gentle, up-cycled cashmere creations for the soft skin of babies and children
• Atsuyo et Akiko –witty and adorable tees and accessories with a Parisian flare
• Dagmar Daley – stylish simply detailed timeless designs
• Diapees and Wipees –unique bags designed for fashionable moms
• Eeboo - wonderfully creative toys, books and puzzles
• Elks + Angels – Australian sheepskin booties, snuggle pods, rugs and more
• Honeyami – organic bedding
• Lalé - fun, colorfully patterned suitcases, beanbags chairs and other accessories
• Little Packrats –fashion forward backpacks, lunch boxes and tote bags
• Lucky Wang – stylish high quality clothing
• Sono Vaso – lifestyle maternity clothing for the modern woman
• The Versatile Dress by Pouch – seven different maternity styles in one dress
• Winter Water Factory – classic pieces in bold prints on organic cotton
• Woolly Boo – one-of-a-kind, heirloom quality basic bedding for infants and kids
• Wovenplay – sustainable couture for adventurous kids
• Zolima – creative and poetic French brand, based in Hong Kong, for savvy children
• and more

Playtime New York offers a comprehensive international selection of today’s best collections in the children’s and maternity marketplace. The show encompasses infant and children’s clothing,shoes and accessories, baby gear, toys, deco/design products, childcare and maternity.

Upcoming Editions of Playtime:
- Playtime Tokyo – February 22 thru 24, 2011
- Playtime Paris –July 2 thru 4, 2011
- Playtime New York – July 31 thru August 2, 2011  

India:Anita Dongre showcases new Shop for Change Fair Trade range at WIFW

UK:Topshop fashion film to showcase SS11 trends

 

Topshop has joined forces with up-and-coming film maker Tyrone Le Bon and stylist Beth Fenton to create a fashion film which will showcase its trends for SS11. The film features two models, Kat and Esme, as they show off this season's hottest trends.

The film is designed to encapsulate the overriding feeling that spring is all about dressing up and having fun with fashion. It was shot on a mix of normal film and cinefilm and features an impressive soundtrack.

The video features styles that will be prominent in this season's collection and were selected by Beth Fenton as her Spring Picks. New looks for this season include the Snake Valley, Swedish Summer, New Age Constellation and Graduation collections, which comprise pieces like flared trousers, button-up blouses, fringed kimonos and diamante frayed hot pants.

Tyrone Le Bon, film maker for the Topshop fashion film, commented: "The Topshop aesthetic is about being an individual, so we took this beyond the girls and the clothes we were showing and across into the filmmaking process too."

Head of Press, Andrew Leahy, added: "We'd seen some of Tyrone's film and photography work and were attracted to the raw, soulful feel of it. He portrays characters very well - his is not your typical fashion imagery.

"We loved his confident and dynamic approach, using a mixture of film and cinefilm, with interesting use of light and innovative editing techniques."

Film Maker, Tyrone Le Bon, commented: "Two contrasting girls were chosen to star in the film - Kat has a handsome beauty and a striking confidence, whilst Esme has a natural softness and encapsulates that cool seventies feel." 

UK:BFC to take leading emerging fashion talents to Paris

USA:Y-3 A/W collection hits New York's Soho district

 

Y-3 hits the road for Autumn/Winter 2011-12 with a collection inspired by the nature of escape—on horseback, on foot, and into the hills. Fittingly, the show presented clothing designed for a journey, combining classic materials and silhouettes with futuristic and protective details like waterproof zippers, neoprene insets, holographic toggles, and ergonomic quilting. Shown in New York's Soho district on Sunday, February 13, 2011, as part of New York fashion week, the collection debuted on a set constructed to resemble a dusty trail, further underscoring the season’s back-to-nature message.

The collection explored variations on a theme of escape, and was inspired by books such as Jack Kerouac’s On the Road and Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild. This meant protection first and foremost, realized in exaggerated funnel-neck collars; simple modularity; voluminous, cocoon-like silhouettes; and intensive quilting on everything from hoods to coats to leggings. In classic Yohji Yamamoto fashion, prints and patches on select garments spelled out the collection’s theme, stating phrases like “Nowhere in Particular,” “Homeward Bound,” and “I’m on the Road.”

Ultimately, the show was about the journey not the destination, and the clothing was designed with this in mind. The women’s collection played greatly with volume and comfort, realized in hooded ponchos, elaborate cut-away dresses, wool puffer shrugs, pleated skirts with raw hems, and oversized wide-leg wool pants—all shown in tones of black, olive drab, and red. Y-3 for men followed a similar trajectory, showing army parkas, striped union suits, quilted work jackets in suede and wool, and cotton leggings inset with panels of Fair Isle knits.

Y-3 presented two new breakthrough fabrics: Cool Max Wool, a breathable wool with an evaporative cooling system, and Diaplex, a wool herringbone bonded to Goretex that molds itself to the body, becoming like a second skin.

On the accessories front, Y-3 underscored the collection’s themes of warmth and comfort, showing oversize hooded scarves, quilted nylon hats, and gloves belted with three pieces of leather—a subtle play on the three-stripes tradition. Shoes for men and women combined the technical expertise of adidas with classical shapes and materials, like a Japanese warrior boot with a cutout sole for men, and an "origami" wedge heel for women.

"Traveling means coming back home," Yamamoto explained backstage of the show's inspiration. "We are always unconsciously wanting to come back. It is one of man's strongest desires."

Yoji Yamamoto is an internationally known Japanese fashion designer based in Tokyo and Paris. 

Germany:Three themes for FALKE’s men for Autumn/Winter

France:Bar Refaeli poses for Passionata’s lingerie collection

 

The 25-year old model Bar Refaeli Caprio, who is associated with Passionata, lingerie brand from France, as a model since 2009 onwards, has concluded yet another shoot for the brand for its spring-summer 2011 collection.

As it appears in a behind-the-scenes video on the Passionata’s website, the mischievous shoot portrays the Israeli-born model as a present day celebrity.

The model is not new to the marketing of inner wears, as prior to this too she has modelled for lingerie for big brands like Marks & Spencer and Victoria’s Secret.

Passionata, as a brand is affiliated to Chantelle, which was launched in 1988. However, Passionata’s lingerie collections embracing the concept of modernity and seductiveness helped Chantelle to establish itself at a top position.

 

Spain:Poppy Delevingne poses with Mango’s winter designs

USA:G-Star’s NY RAW Autumn/Winter collection rocks

 

G-Star's Metropolitan Explorer inspired NY RAW Autumn/Winter 2011 collection was shown at New York Fashion Week. The characteristic modern 3D denim approach and craftsmanship of the specialist denim brand were combined with elegant fabrics from1920's city life, fused with outdoor utilities in a dark color palette including raw indigo, hunting green and utility grey.

This season showcased surprising hidden functionalities, based on 1920's explorers fused with elegant tailoring. This reflects the 'unexpected combinations' philosophy at the heart of the G-Star brand.

Highlights included the New Charlie Pant for men, featuring a 3D-shaped leg and extreme high back, originally to protect from weather conditions at sea, and inspired by an over pant, which creates volume. The padded Jade Skirt for women featured an extreme knee silhouette created for protection, whilst looking elegant due to high tech tailoring. It was combined with the utility Selwyn Vest, featuring a waxed finish inspired by early North Sea fishermen, who would rub linseed oil into their smocks for waterproofing and windproofing.

Representation of the Metropolitan Explorer theme included the Launceton Coat for both men and women, featuring a storm collar and the natural insulating properties of wool to create a weather proof piece, whilst having a refined tailored silhouette. The city camouflage modern geometric print in the collection also underpinned the core theme, as expressed in the Mackay Jacket.

The G-Star runway show took place at Lincoln Center where guests viewed the NY RAW Autumn/Winter 2011 collection featuring G-Star's modern 3D denim approach and craftsmanship, combined with elegant tailoring, fused with outdoor utilities. 

Germany:Three themes for FALKE’s men for Autumn/Winter

USA:Macy's partners with Phillies for fashion contest

 

Macy's and the NL East Champion Phillies are teaming up to discover the next MVP of fashion design with the announcement of the "Macy's Phillies Ballgirls Uniform Design Challenge."

The unique challenge invites all aspiring fashion designers to submit a completed application by Saturday, February 19, 2011. Among the entrants, 15 designers will be chosen to showcase their creation during a live fashion runway show at the Macy's Center City store, on Thursday, March 31st. At the runway event, Phillies Ballgirls will model the uniforms and celebrity judges (TBA) will select a winner based on the uniform's creativity, functionality, quality and style.

The winning uniform design will be worn by the Phillies Ballgirls at select off-field community appearances during the 2011 season.

"We are so pleased to be partnering with the Phillies for this exciting fashion contest," said Nicole Fischelis, Macy's group vice president/fashion director. "Fashion designers are an integral part of the Macy's team, and it is our hope that this unique challenge will inspire designers in the Philadelphia area to take a swing at creating stylish apparel hits for the Phillies Ballgirls."

"Our ballgirls represent the Phillies both on and off the field for the entire season," said Michele DeVicaris, Manager, Phillies Ballgirls. "And now, thanks to a unique partnership with Macy's, this competition will also give the ballgirls a chance to represent one of our fashion-designing fans that have a keen eye for what's fresh and fashionable."

The Macy's Phillies Ballgirls Uniform Design Challenge is open to amateur designers, as well as fashion and design students. Entrants must be 18 years or older and reside in Delaware, New Jersey or Pennsylvania.

All entrants must submit an application, work portfolio with design samples, and a three to five minute DVD/personal video explaining their vision of the new Phillies Ballgirl uniform. Application instructions as well as official rules are located at phillies.com. Deadline to receive all entry material is Saturday, February 19, 2011. 

USA:FIDM Interior Design students win Elle DГ©cor-sponsored contest

USA:Horiyoshi III A/W women's and men's collection at Project

 

Horiyoshi Worldwide Inc is pleased to announce that Horiyoshi the Third's newly designed Autumn / Winter 2011-12 Women's and Men's Collection will be displayed at Project Fashion Week, in Las Vegas from February 14th - 16th.

The full collection - which includes knitwear, outerwear, leather goods along with scarves, and jerseys - will be showcased to buyers, distributors and the international fashion media.

Since 2003, Project Fashion Week has served as an internationally recognized advanced contemporary fashion event. It is a destination that brings together innovative contemporary brands with forward thinking global retailers and serves as a cross roads for the newest fashion trends.

Dawn Green - Commercial Director of Horiyoshi Worldwide explains, "Project Fashion Week is an event that the fashion industry looks to for artistic inspiration. Retailers attending the show want to connect with new innovative brands that they believe will have staying power.

For over four decades, Horiyoshi III has proven that there is something deeply appealing to his artistic designs. Our goal is to introduce the Horiyoshi brand to a wider audience and the Project exposes us to a significant number of potential new distribution partners. We believe there is an enormous opportunity to connect with the public, and significantly grow the brand." 

France:Horiyoshi the Third’s A/W men’s collection at Paris Fashion Week

USA:Ninh Nguyen launching A/W 2011 collection during NYFW

 

Highly anticipated newcomer and New York based menswear designer Ninh Nguyen is launching his Autumn/Winter 2011 collection during New York fashion Week this Saturday February the 12th, with a fashion installation and Charity art auction housed in a private events loft in the West Village, to a strict invite-only crowd.

Originally born in Paris, Ninh came to the US with a sense of style all his own. The creation of his graduation finale line from the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology came with much praise and critique as it pushed the envelope for conventional menswear.

“When I design, I don’t design for a trend, or for just any man. I design for the modern day renaissance man. Someone who is confident, intellectual, open minded, cultured and passionate," says Ninh. "I have put all of these elements into my clothing and when this man wears it, this man feels complete.”

Preferring to go by his first name, Ninh did not only want to make an impact to media, buyers, family and friends who will attend on a fashion level, but also to inspire and to raise awareness about the collaboration of two important charities Child Education International and Hope for the Silent Voices.

Enlisting 25 artists from across the globe, Ninh has challenged them to create unique prints based on his Autumn/Winter Collection that will be placed around the venue available for auction with 100% of the proceeds going to the charities.

Child education International aims to build schools in impoverished countries for secondary school students. Their campaign the Cambodia Project believes, if poor, rural children worldwide have access to comprehensive secondary education that is both economically and environmentally sustainable, if their families have access to high quality health services, then economic and community growth will be stimulated, helping to alleviate the cycle of poverty in developing communities.

Hope for the Silent Voices is a not-for-profit organization founded to bring attention and resources to the severely neglected, disadvantaged, abused and discarded globally. By forging dynamic personal relationships with those in need and exploring significant ways to enhance the quality of these individuals' lives, HFSV’s mandate is to be able to raise awareness and provide this service to each and every underprivileged child.

The event will be held at Michelson Studios at 163 Bank St in the West Village between 6 and 8pm. 

France:Horiyoshi the Third’s A/W men’s collection at Paris Fashion Week

New Zealand:iD Fashion Week reveals identity image

 

Dark, dramatic and ethereal are terms used to illustrate the creative concept for new iD Dunedin Fashion Week identity image. The new identity image will be used on all of the promotional material for the 2011.

Following on from 2010, the image will be created locally drawingon the talent of Luke Johnston, owner of Dunedin based BrandAid along with the Ali McD model agency. This year Otago Polytechnic fashion lecturer and stylist Margo Barton and photographer Emily Hlavac-Green will be involved in the photoshoot.

Each year we look to develop a high fashion image which becomesthe new identity for iD Dunedin Fashion Week, Margo Barton of theiD Dunedin Fashion Week Committee said.

“This year the photoshoot brings a slightly more surreal element to the identity image. The night shoot combined collection items from designers featuring in the iD Dunedin Fashion Week, in a heritage location and illustrates the fashion style Dunedin is known for – dark, moody but also glamourous and vibrant.”

Luke Johnston said, “The idea was to create a dramatic and surreal feeling with a seemingly gravity defying model floating in a mysterious Dunedin location.”

BrandAid will develop the identity to become a recognisable icon of the fashion week which will feature on all promotional material developed by BrandAid and will appear on the iD Dunedin Fashion Week website.

The compelling new identity features 18-year-old Dunedin model Zoe Cadzow from the Ali McD modelling agency. Zoe will be leaving Dunedin shortly to study architecture in Wellington. Zoe began modelling with Ali McD Agency at 13 years of age.

iD Awards Show – Friday 8 April and Saturday 9 April 2011. 

New Zealand:Standout runway appeal deciding factor for 2011 iD Fashion Show

USA:Nina Gleyzer brings flawless style to CFW

 

In her third appearance at Couture Fashion Week New York, Atlanta-based designer Nina Gleyzer will present her latest collection at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday February 19, 2011. The fashion show will be held in the legendary Grand Ballroom of the Waldorf-Astoria on Park Avenue, New York City and promises to be a memorable event.

A native of St. Petersburg, Russia, Nina Gleyzer is a master of couture design. An acclaimed European designer, Ms. Gleyzer moved to the United States in 1990. Soon after she opened her elegant boutique in the upscale Decorative Arts Plaza in the Buckhead area of Atlanta, Georgia. In 1996, Atlanta Magazine had already named her boutique a “World Class Best of Atlanta.” Ms. Gleyzer launched her own couture line in 2008.

Ms. Gleyzer's style is classic with an edge. Her clothes are made for the woman with discriminating taste who doesn't want to look like everybody else. For those who want their basics to look like classics, and reflect their personal sense of style, Ms. Gleyzer's clothes will look just as good on a 30-something woman as they will on a woman in her 60's.

Ms. Gleyzer is now focused on expanding her couture line of beautiful one-of-a-kind dresses, sequined accented taffeta skirts and cashmere lace suits. The flawless stitching, unusual trim and unexpected pops of color and texture are reminiscent of the signature styles of such fashion icons as Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn and Catherine Deneuve. 

USA:Zimmermann to debut 3zehn line at Couture Fashion Week

USA:David's Bridal to reveal White by Vera Wang collection

 

White by Vera Wang debuts its inaugural Spring 2011 collection in 150 David's Bridal stores nationwide.

White by Vera Wang incorporates the same modern approach to bridal design and use of artistic detailing for which Vera Wang is well known. The collection, which is comprised of 12 styles priced, will provide more brides the opportunity to wear the designer gown of their dreams at an attainable price point.

The collection, which includes gowns and accessories, is available in a romantic palette of soft white, ivory, blush, and champagne and includes a range of looks perfect for the traditional and modern bride alike. David's Bridal will launch subsequent White by Vera Wang collections each fall and spring season.

"I'm excited to partner with David's Bridal as the exclusive retailer of the White by Vera Wang collection," says Vera Wang. "This collection embraces my true design aesthetic and through David's Bridal, I look forward to sharing my creative vision with brides across the country."

"Since announcing our partnership, we have been eager to reveal the White by Vera Wang collection," says Bob Huth, President and CEO of David's Bridal. "With two decades in the business, Vera Wang is the name in bridal, and our partnership creates a unique and exciting opportunity to bring the magic of her aesthetic to life for brides who have long dreamt of wearing a Vera Wang wedding gown." 

USA:Kirstie Kelly Signature will kick off touring trunk shows

UK:Rangayah to use Tabio stockings for re-cycling project

 

Z-Mode fashion are proud to announce the collaboration with online and instore Socks and Tights Speciality Store, Tabio. In an exciting project where reject stock stockings will be used as part of an exciting re-cycled fashion project.

Designer Victoria Rangayah will be using re-cycled stockings as a main material for her next collection.

Previously Victoria has worked with companies such as ?Guess Inc' South Africa and created garments out of reject stock denim. Furthermore her re-cycled shoelace dress was selected and showcased in last years "Clothes Show Live - Fashion Theatre".

Other media interest include Attire Bridal magazine, who will be featuring in their next issue a wedding gown made out of stockings.

Previously pieces from Z-Mode collection were featured in magazines such as ELLE – South Africa, Collezioni - Italy, LABB fashion - UK, Cheshire Life - UK just to mention few.

"Stockings are essential item in every woman's wardrobe, however it has a very short life span. That encouraged me to re-cycle and put another creative stamp onto fashion re-cycling" Victoria Rangayah.

She also added: 'Im so thrilled to receive support from Tabio and hope we could inspire other companies to follow the sustainable fashion route as well."

In conjunction with Tabio sponsorship, Victoria will be involving her local community in Wilmslow.

She will be holding a Stocking Appeal in Wilmslow and encouraging all the ladies to recycle their stockings for fashion.

Contemporary ladieswear fashion label with debut SS11 collection launched during London Fashion Week. 

France:Horiyoshi the Third’s A/W men’s collection at Paris Fashion Week

Russia:IMG-Artefact to enhance Russian Fashion Week element

 

Starting this year, IMG Fashion, part of premier global sports, entertainment and media company IMG Worldwide, will represent the most renowned fashion event in Moscow - Russian Fashion Week (RFW).

The ongoing deal between IMG Fashion and Moscow based Artefact Communications Agency will have the fashion giant represent the commercial rights of the Russian Fashion Week produced by Artefact globally. IMG will also bring its relationships and expertise to Artefact, helping it seamlessly connect its activities to the broader fashion landscape.

Peter Levy, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of IMG Fashion Worldwide, said, “Russian Fashion Week and Artefact Communications Agency represent a significant step for us in the Russian marketplace and we look forward to working with them to increase the visibility of their event and its participating designers. Our goal continues to be to create and facilitate opportunities around the world for the industry.”

Russian Fashion Week just celebrated its10th anniversary (20th season) in 2010 and continues to be the premier platform for designers in the country. The event takes place twice per year, on the first week of April and third week of October, in the Congress-Hall of World Trade Center in downtown of Moscow. RFW is focused on supporting Russian talent as well as to be a true gateway for international fashion brands to Russian market. Russian Fashion Week showcased dozens of famous international designers in Moscow in the past including Julien Macdonald, Jenny Packham, Matthew Williamson, JC de Castelbajac, Vivienne Westwood, La Perla and Jeremy Scott.

"This deal with IMG Fashion is the most important part of our strategy for further developing of RFW,” said Alexander Shumsky, CEO of Artefact and President of Russian Fashion Week. “RFW has a lot of creative links with international fashion institutions which IMG Fashion will leverage. This is next level for RFW and RFW participants.”

Russian Fashion Week is organized by Artefact Communications Agency which was founded in Moscow in 1996. Artefact is a leading Russian company for PR and marketing communications for fashion and luxury.

IMG Fashion is dedicated to facilitating a gateway to the fashion world - from creation to consumer. We offer solutions that seamlessly connect and associate fashion’s key constituents and corporate brands using IMG’s global resources, influence and expertise. Within the fashion industry IMG represents the world’s top models, leading designers and the most influential photographers, art directors and stylists. The division produces the leading fashion events around the globe and represents many of the industry’s top organizations and federations.

The upcoming Russian Fashion Week will take place in Moscow from March 31-April 5, 2011.  

Malaysia:Top European fashion designers impressed by batik & songket

USA:Stunning outlook for CURVExpo

 

CURVExpo is looking to the big picture for 2011 with high expectations. After another successful year of four shows in New York and Las Vegas, CURVExpo proves to have the winning formula on the market. This success is attributed to a strong mixture of the largest and best lingerie and swimwear brand offering, the right timing during the two biggest and busiest market weeks covering the entire North American market, and the only efficient format for both brands and retailers alike.

The four annual shows for 2011 will continue to boast a large, fresh brand offering featuring the best in lingerie as well as swimwear which has a big focus now, especially for August. For the upcoming February shows, Fall/Winter 2011 collections will begin their road show in the west at CURVENV Las Vegas February 14, 15, 16 and continue east with CURVENY New York February 21, 22, 23.

The August shows will reverse coasts by starting at CURVENY New York July 31, August 1, 2 where Spring/Summer 2012 collections and the first ever New York Swim Fashion Week will be featured during the New York lingerie and swimwear market week. CURVENV Las Vegas August 22, 23, 24 will follow two weeks later with an increased offering of designer swimwear brands and the best in lingerie – the only of its kind on the west coast.

At both CURVENY New York and CURVENV Las Vegas, efficiency for both exhibitors and retailers is attributed to the right timing and strategic approach to the market at large. Taking place during the main lingerie and swimwear market weeks at each location, the top retailers are in town – and buying.

CURVExpo is also not a standalone show, attracting other retail segments from surrounding shows (Coterie in New York, Project in Las Vegas) and maximizing buyers’ time to create the now-desired “onestop shop”.

Swimwear is now a large part of this search, adding to the efficiency of the CURVE format. The successful introduction of the Swim Fashion Week in August 2010 at CURVENV Las Vegas is a direct result of current market requirements. There is a clear overlap in distribution as well as consumer need and approach between lingerie and swimwear retailers. As 50% of lingerie stores already carry swimwear and swimwear retailers need the “lingerie fit”, lingerie and swimwear represent a natural crossover.

The need for designer swimwear brands on the west coast has been and will continue to be filled by CURVE, as over 70 swimwear brands were found in August 2010’s “Beach Shop” section. The east coast also represents an obvious need demanded by the industry. The big buyers on the east coast now demand a classy event that will maximize their time under one roof. Taking place during the busiest order taking market week on the east coast, CURVENY New York will begin filling this void this upcoming August.

With sell through for the majority of 2010 being very strong, the market environment is improving and designers areproducing a wider range of products that cater to multiple price points for 2011. The upcoming CURVENV Las Vegas February 14, 15, 16 and CURVENY New York February 21, 22, 23 shows will continue to bring together the top designers, presenting the best of the best within the industry, as well as new brands that add value and innovation. CURVExpo’s brand focus is grounded by this “designer” concept and it remains true to this mission.
 

UK:Fashion & lifestyle brands set to increase at Moda Footwear

UK:Pants to Poverty! poised to launch into the UK highstreet

 

Pants to Poverty, one of the UK’s fastest growing ethical fashion brands, will be making a debut at Pure Spirit later this month.

To celebrate the launch and to show their support for Fairtrade Fortnight (28th February – 13th March), Pants to Poverty have recruited over 150 students from Central St Martin’s to take to the streets of London on February 9th in their pants! The students will be strutting their stuff through the streets of London. The walk will start at 11am at Central St Martins and finish in Holborn at 1.30pm

The leading British Fairtrade and Organic underwear brand was established in 2005 as part of the Make Poverty History Campaign to develop a new business model for fashion. Made from Fairtrade and pesticide free cotton with 3% lycra to give stretch and keep shape, these pants are now sold in 25 countries around the world and are poised to launch into the UK highstreet.

The new collections, which celebrate the fifth anniversary of Fairtrade cotton, feature new styles for women including mini shorts and the launch of a new woven collection in a pastel colour pallet and an array of rich and vibrant colours. New styles for men include new button hole boxers.

Ben Ramsden, founder of Pants to Poverty, commented: “This is the first UK trade show we have shown at. We have been waiting a long time for a show like Pure Spirit to come along and we are very excited about how much the show are recognising and promoting ethical fashion!”

Pants to Poverty can be found in the Label section of Pure Spirit on stand C84. 

UK:International brands flock to Pure Spirit

USA:Kirstie Kelly Signature will kick off touring trunk shows

 

Every woman with her unique style, size and smart financial sense can now have a couture-inspired wedding gown thanks to a first-ever union between renowned celebrity designer Kirstie Kelly and Costco. Kirstie Kelly Signature is kicking off a series of touring trunk shows at select Costco locations.

Complete with a comfortable changing room, lounge for family and friends and an expert bridal consultant, these special event salons offer brides a personalized experience. Each salon features a breadth of sizes from sizes 2 to 24 so that women are more likely to find their size and see immediately what they will look like on their big day. Due to the limited number of dresses available, online appointments are strongly recommended.

The first set of trunk shows will be at the following stores:

• Folsom, Calif. -- February 10-13 (1800 Cavitt Court, Folsom 95630)
• Almaden, Calif. -- February 17-20 (5301 Almaden Expressway, San Jose 95118)
• Reno, Nev. -- February 24-27 (2200 Harvard Way, Reno 89502)

"In today's world, many brides-to-be are paying for all or part of their weddings and are becoming very savvy about how to find a beautiful, high-quality wedding gown at an affordable price," said Kirstie Kelly, designer of the Kirstie Kelly Signature collection. "The Kirstie Kelly Signature line offers all the splendor of finding the perfect wedding gown but at a Costco price."

The collection debuts six distinct styles with classic silhouettes; gorgeous fabrics; top-of-the-line fit and finish; and, soft embellishments such as Alencon lace, crystal or pearl beading and handmade flowers and petals. The beautifully designed gowns are available in organza, satin, diuponi or taffeta and perfectly complement a range of skin tones and body types - ideal for both indoor and outdoor weddings.

Available exclusively at Costco, Kirstie Kelly Signature offers quality couture-inspired bridal gowns for the smart woman who doesn't want to choose between affordability and elegance. 

France:Eric Tibusch unveils AndroГЇde Couture Collection

UAE:Bride Show Abu Dhabi ends with roaring success

 

Four days of full on fashion with 19 runway shows featuring 570 wedding gowns, evening dresses, abayas and jalibayas worn by 10 professional models in front of thousands of brides-to-be and girls who just love glamour.

The tenth anniversary of The Bride Show Abu Dhabi has come to a close and marked as another roaring success.

The Bride Show Abu Dhabi, organised by IIR Middle East and sponsored by Corniche Hospital, was opened by its patron Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif, wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The prestigious bridal event is followed by The Bride Show Dubai, which takes place from 30 March to 2 April 2011 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre. 

UAE:Her Highness Sheikha Bint Saif inaugurates Bride Show Abu Dhabi

UAE:Her Highness Sheikha Bint Saif inaugurates Bride Show Abu Dhabi

 

Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif, wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, officially opened The Bride Show Abu Dhabi to launch a four-day showcase in the UAE capital for fashion followers, fiancГ©s and their families.

After cutting the ribbon to inaugurate the shopping exhibition at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif, toured the halls which have brought together foremost wedding industry businesses to provide an all-inclusive bridal experience under one roof before she enjoyed a private catwalk preview of dresses by celebrity fashion designer Tony Yaacoub, taking part in the event for the first time.

The private fashion show was followed by the presentation of a cheque for AED45,000 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE, the official charity of The Bride Show Abu Dhabi.
Daily fashion shows will unveil traditional and modern bridal looks and with many exhibitors offering exclusive discounts and fantastic competition prizes such as a complete wedding package worth AED100,000 given away to a lucky visitor courtesy of La Fete Weddings, the event is expected to attract more than 15,000 visitors from around the region.

With the bridal event taking place just before the most romantic date in the year, Valentine’s Day celebrations are hot on many exhibitors’ and visitors’ lips. Arushi, one of the most established design houses in Dubai, has designed an eye popping cocktail dress which will be given away to a visitor to wear to impress her loved one on the most romantic day of the year.

Platinum Sponsor, Corniche Hospital launched its emirate-wide public health awareness campaign targeting young women who will soon start their own families.

A team of female doctors, dieticians and health experts from Corniche Hospital will be available at The Bride Show Abu Dhabi until Saturday 5 February at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, offering advice and giving away a free three month’s supply of pre-natal vitamins suitable for all women.

The Bride Show Abu Dhabi, organised by IIR Middle East, is the most prestigious bridal exhibition in the UAE capital and takes place daily until Saturday 5 February 2011 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

Open to the public from 2:30pm-10:30pm daily, with admission reserved exclusively for women on Thursday 4 February, The Bride Show Abu Dhabi has attracted an international line-up of more than 200 exhibitors who are showcasing wedding gowns, international haute couture fashion, beauty, hair and jewellery ideas, wedding venues and honeymoon destinations. 

UAE:Tony Yaacoub to open the Bride Show Abu Dhabi

UK:Jaeger & Vodafone to work on a one-off catwalk show

 

Jaeger and Vodafone UK to present Jaeger London's current spring/summer 2011 collection in an exclusive catwalk show for Vodafone customers during the February 2011 London Fashion Week.

200 pairs of tickets to a one-off catwalk show featuring Jaeger London's current Spring/Summer 2011 collection will be available for Vodafone customers exclusively.

Iconic British brands Jaeger and Vodafone UK have joined forces to offer Vodafone customers unprecedented access to London Fashion Week. Vodafone UK has 200 pairs of tickets to the exclusive Jaeger London catwalk show featuring Jaeger London's current Spring/Summer 2011 collection. The show for Vodafone customers will take place on Sunday 20th February 2011 at Somerset House, London. Vodafone customers can sign-up at: vodafone.co.uk/vip

Belinda Earl, Jaeger's Group Chief Executive, comments: "We are delighted to offer Vodafone UK customers exclusive access to a special Jaeger London Spring/Summer 2011 catwalk show, as part of London Fashion Week. We are very proud of our current collection, which is in-store already, and hope that those Vodafone customers lucky enough to get tickets will thoroughly enjoy the experience."

Jaeger London's Autumn/Winter 2011 show takes place at 1pm on Saturday 19th February 2011 at the BFC Catwalk Show Space, Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 1LA. 

UK:African Fashion Awards promoting ethnic fashion

Hong Kong:DesignPlus Fashion Competition 2011 comes to fruitful close

 

Organized by the Troels H. Povlsen Care Apparel Centre under the aegis of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)’s Institute of Textiles and Clothing, the "DesignPlus Fashion Competition 2011" has come to a fruitful close. A total of 22 participating teams showed their specially designed care apparel for the elderly or the disabled at the award presentation ceremony and mini-fashion show held last Saturday (29 January) at Chiang Chen Studio Theatre on the university campus.

According to the organizer, the aim of the competition is to equip students of our community with the knowledge to show concern for the clothing needs of the elderly and disabled. In the course of this competition, PolyU students have teamed up with local students from other educational institutes / secondary schools to show their talents in fashion design and their concern to the community as well.

This year, over 200 students took part in the competition. They came from more than 20 educational institutes / secondary schools, including PolyU and its affiliated Hong Kong Community College, Hong Kong Design Institute, Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education (Sha Tin), School of Continuing and Professional Studies of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Australian International School Hong Kong (Secondary), CCC Rotary Secondary School, Diocesan Girls’ School, HKICC Lee Shau Kee School of Creativity, Holy Family Canossian College, Lai King Catholic Secondary School, Lam Tai Fai College, Maryknoll Convent School (Secondary Section), Nam Wah Catholic Secondary School, Shau Kei Wan East Government School, South Island School, St. Paul’s Convent School, St. Rose of Lima’s College, St. Stephen’s Girls’ College, STFA Lee Shau Kee College, Tung Chung Catholic School.

The ceremony was officiating at by Mr Lam Woon-Kwong, Chairperson of Equal Opportunities Commission; Professor Philip C. H. Chan, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU; and Dr Frency Ng, Director of Troels H. Povlsen Care Apparel Centre. Some of the winning entries might be used for making care apparels for the elderly and disabled. 

Tanzania:Fashion institute to be set up in Dar es Saalam