UK:+J collection receives Brit Insurance Fashion Award

 

The +J summer collection, created with established fashion designer Ms. Jil Sander, will be launching in selected UNIQLO UK stores on Thursday 31 March. This limited edition collection will be available from 1am online and from 10am at UNIQLO 311 Oxford Street and Westfield London.

Since its initial launch in October 2009, the +J collection has been highly acclaimed throughout the world, gaining global esteem and recognition with each collection and most recently winning the prestigious 2011 Brit Insurance Fashion Award at the 2011 Brit Insurance Design Awards.

вЂAs a collection, +J is still in its infancy. We feel all the more encouraged to be deemed relevant as a project which wishes to make the world a better place’. Ms. Jil Sander, upon receiving the 2011 Brit Insurance Fashion Award.

'We are absolutely delighted to receive the 2011 Brit Insurance Fashion Award for the +J collection. To be up against the likes of some of the most influential and established designers in the industry, and to win, is a great honour. UNIQLO and Ms. Jil Sander has proved to be a unique partnership over the last two years and this award only serves to reaffirm this'. Simon Coble, UNIQLO UK CEO.

The summer 2011 +J collection emphasises the colour blocking trend this season; featuring bold colour contrasts of fiery red and cobalt blue, matched with chalky whites and pillar of stone taupe. Weightless pieces include delicately pleated dresses, form fitting jackets and tailored shorts in techno-taffeta and lightweight cotton twill. 

Hong Kong:136 Companies exhibiting for the first time at Fashion Access

 

The global fashion market is constantly evolving. New companies promote and progress developing trends. New exhibitors provide the window through which these movements can be viewed.

At Fashion Access (FA) there are 136 companies exhibiting for the first time. That's an extraordinarily large number for one exhibition. What do they offer? What trends do they foretell? Visitors to the exhibition will know.

The demand for higher-end and luxury fashion and lifestyle products has remained remarkably strong. Although demand in some countries is down, due largely to national economic conditions, in others it is buoyant and continues to grow.

That growth is best shown in several so-called вЂemerging’ economies: for example India, Brazil, Russia and, of course, China.

This sector-wide confidence is demonstrated at Fashion Access by the 640 plus exhibitors present. They come from 30 countries and regions with some 15 group pavilions.

Fashion Access is held twice a year. This event focuses upon fashion trend forecasts for Autumn-Winter 2011/12.

The range of lifestyle products on display – providing вЂFashion from head to toe’ – is comprehensive, including bags, footwear, branded fashion collections, leather garments, leathergoods and travelware.

Seminars (two notably by PeclersParis and Stylesight) and fashion presentations (Dress Up!) also take place throughout the fair. Seminars deliberately crossover into APLF - Materials, Manufacturing & Technology (APLF - MM&T) areas to appeal to both FA and APLF - MM&T participants, thus further reinforcing the synergy between both fairs.

Date: March 30 to April 1, 2011
Venue: Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wanchai, Hong Kong

FASHION ACCESS is the twice-a-year, must-attend international fashion fair in Hong Kong for bags, footwear, leather goods, garments and a full range of lifestyle accessories. 

UAE:H.H Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif opens the Bride Show Dubai

 

The Bride Show Dubai was officially opened on Wednesday 30 March by patron Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif, Chairwoman of the Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE and wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President of the UAE.

Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif cut the ribbon in a private ladies only ceremony to launch the four-day long fashion, beauty and shopping extravaganza which brings together the crème de la crème of the regional wedding industry, international retailers, brides-to-be and thousands of the UAE’s fashion lovers.

After touring the Sheikh Saeed exhibition halls, Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha was treated to a private fashion show from exclusive Bangkok-based bridal boutique After You Say Yes – SIMA.Owned by Khunying Sasima Srivikorn, whose family owns the InterContinental Hotel in the Thai capital, the wedding boutique is taking part in The Bride Show Dubai for the first time.

Following the official launch, The Bride Show Dubai opened its doors to the general public and is now underway at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre until Saturday 2 April.More than 300 local and international exhibitors are taking part to provide a one-stop-shop for brides planning their wedding and women who love fashion, beauty and jewellery.

Eighteen fashion shows will take place over the four day event, the largest event of its kind open to the general public offering access to the front row. Visitors on the opening day saw bridal designs and haute couture evening wear from After You Say Yes – SIMA, Dabya Haute Couture, Beautiful People – Sakina Mohsin, Meena Rose Haute Couture and Demetrios.

Now in its 14th year, The Bride Show Dubai has a fresh feel for 2011. A new VIP entrance fee of AED50 will give shoppers access to the VIP Lounge where they can take advantage of complimentary treatments from Tips and Toes, the largest chain of nail salons in the Middle East. Trained beauty technicians will offer rejuvenation in the form of head, neck and shoulder massages, nail colour changes and nail art.

Those who choose to pay the VIP entrance may also enjoy goodie bags filled with exhibitor products, light refreshments as well as reserved front row seating for all the fashion shows.

Adding an international flair, Fashion Avenue features wedding retailers from Italy, France, Morocco, Romania, India, Thailand,the UK and USA, all of which have flown into Dubai to meet brides to be and their families and showcase their finest bridal gowns and accessories. Visitors have an exclusive opportunity to browse designs from The Italian Wedding, Julien Mattion and Curti, all from Italy, as well as French brands Farage, Promincor and La Maison Saouli.

The Bride Show Dubai is open from 2:30pm to 10:30pm, Wednesday 30 March to Saturday 2nd April 2011 in Sheikh Saeed Halls 1, 2 and 3, Dubai International Exhibition Centre.
 

Spain:First Communion fashion show at MADRID NOVIAS

 

The latest ideas in Wedding, Party-Wear and First Communion fashion will once again be the focal-point of MADRID NOVIAS, the International Bridal Fashion Exhibition, which is due to stage its ninth edition between 5th and 8th May in Hall 14.1 at Feria de Madrid.

This trade fair, which is organised by IFEMA in collaboration with Expotecnic, will bring together the new collections for the year 2012 season at this edition, based on the participation of some 60 leading companies from the fields of bridal fashion, bridegroom fashion, formal clothing and First Communion attire.

Over its first two days, 5th and 6th May, and coinciding with its trade exhibition, MADRID NOVIAS will host the staging of a comprehensive programme of fashion shows on the CIBELES MADRID NOVIAS catwalk, located in the same hall as the stands. This will constitute a unique opportunity for visitors to gain a first-hand insight into the latest trends and new features in the season's collections, based on the participation of 19 Spanish designers at this edition.

Among these designers, 12 will present bridal collections, 4 will present bridegroom collections, 2 will focus on party-wear and 1 designer will present a lingerie collection. Hannibal Laguna, Devota&Lomba, Miquel Suay, Ana Torres, Isabel Zapardiez, Rafael Urquizar, Francisco Quintans, Javier Arnaiz, La Boheme 1994, Jorge Terra, Emperatriz, Charo Peres, Pol Nunez and Cyntia Vila are the designers who will present fashion shows at this edition.

Furthermore, based on the success of the last edition, a First Communion fashion show will once again take place, an entirely unique event in Spain that will feature the participation of the following companies: ГЃgatha Ruiz de la Prada, Barcarola, Hortensia Maeso for Rubio Kids, Javier LarraГ­nzar, Miquel Suay, Victorio&Lucchino and Lovely Day.

Throughout the course of the fair, MADRID NOVIAS will be open from 9.30 a.m. through to 7.30 p.m., except for the Sunday 8th when the event will close at 4.30 p.m. 

USA:Alvanon Academic Programme for design universities & colleges

 

Alvanon Inc, the world's leading apparel fit expert, announced it has launched a global academic program to help apparel design students establish a comprehensive knowledge and appreciation of customized fit processes, strategies and standards, enabling them to design better fitting clothes.

The Alvanon Academic Program 2011 will give students direct access to the apparel industry's most advanced sizing, fit and communications tools – at significantly discounted rates. The program will include master classes in consumer sizing research and analysis by renowned apparel fit experts, and the use of customized design fit forms for pattern making, draping and fitting classes.

The launch follows a series of successful pilot partnerships with leading design colleges around the world, including the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. Other colleges participating in the pilot program include University College Falmouth, Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design, London College of Fashion, De Montfort University and Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK; and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the Clothing Industry Training Authority in Hong Kong.

Janice Wang, chief executive officer, Alvanon Group explained: "Our successful partnerships with some of the world's foremost fashion colleges has persuaded us to formalize the program and open it up to all interested academic parties." She added: "The program is a way for us to give something tangible back to our industry. By providing insight and tools that are actively being used by the wider industry, we are giving the next generation of apparel designers real-world experience and helping prepare them for a bright and successful career."

Through seminars or visits to Alvanon's regional offices in London, Germany, New York and Hong Kong, students will learn how customized fit strategies, fit forms and pattern blocks – executed consistently and continuously throughout the global garment development process – can deliver greater customer satisfaction, brand loyalty and a competitive advantage.

Students will also learn how 3D body-scanning data can provide consistent and successful regional and brand fit strategies. Then using Alvanon's advanced industry standard mannequins, AlvaForms, students will learn how to design and fit clothes for a target consumer shape. The program will also include several custom-made AlvaBlock pattern generation tools for the selected AlvaForm shape.

Barbara Bundy, vice president of education at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, said: "Alvanon has quietly changed the way we teach about apparel design at FIDM. The faculty and students love AlvaForms because they enable us to achieve a consistent fit in our pattern labs." She continues: "At FIDM, we believe in giving students a realistic and practical education that will further their career in the industry. Alvanon's tools help us achieve that."
 

Ukraine:UFW : astounding opportunity for international buyers

 

The Ukrainian Fashion week has held its 28th season on March 16-21, 2011, attracting world-renowned fashion industry representatives, including Ronald Denis, Alessandra Dainelli, and Renata Fontanelli. Almost 25,000 guests - fashion experts, buyers, designers' clients, and media representatives - enjoyed the presentation of autumn-winter '2011-2012 pret-a-porter collections by 50 designer brands including L.P. by Poustovit, Zalevskiy, Victoria Gres, NotaBene&Karavay, Bevza, Zinaida Likhacheva, Julia Aysina, Litkovskaya and others.

Every year the Ukrainian Fashion Week draws interest of many international fashion experts, buyers and celebrities. This year's event attracted a real constellation of special guests, including: Russian Glamour chief-editor Alla Belyakova, Italian fashion consultant and one of the world's top-10 influential buyers Alessandra Dainelli, fashion-editor of the Italian La Repubblica, Renata Fontanelli, Global Fashion Management (GFM) creator and famed fashion consultant Ronald Denis.

The event was also attended by Dutch fashion consultant Li Edelkoort, French super model DjiDieng, Italian fashion expert and Maas Markets partner Corrado Manaresi, President of Rakas Ltd. ArisRakas,Russian vogue.ru blogger Vitaly Kozak, Paris Gallery representative David Cheungand the owners of Belgian concept store "Ra" Anna Kushnerova and RomainBrau.

This year's UFW international program has been headed by Italian fashion manager and Maas Markets owner Maurizio Aschero, who joined the UFW as a head of its international development department.

The Ukrainian Fashion Week aims at promotion of Ukrainian designers worldwide. "Ukrainian designers, whoremain faithful to creativity, are very close to become commercially successful. Another important feature of the event is the large number of charity and social projects that are developing within UFW," said Volodymyr Nechyporuk, the UFW General Producer.

In addition to the catwalk shows,the UFW traditionally hostsspecial events for its guests. One of this year's features has been the lavish exhibition "From Gothic to Modern. The History of European Fashion," dedicated to the landmarks of the European fashion development of the 15th-19th centuries.

The Ukrainian Fashion Week was established in 1997, becoming the first professional fashion event in Eastern Europe. Each year the UFW presents the pret-a-porter collections from the leading Ukrainian designers as well as the fashion industry newcomers, brings to Ukraine over 25,000 guests and accredits more than 150 media outlets from Ukraine and abroad. 

USA:Sue Wong pays tribute to My Fair Lady at LA Fashion Week

 

The always glamorous and effortlessly elegant fashion designer, Sue Wong, showcased her evocative My Fair Lady inspired Fall 2011 Collection during Los Angeles Fashion Week at her historic Hollywood home, The Cedars, on Friday, March 18, 2011. Guests, who included fashion editors, stylists, and celebrities enjoyed a champagne brunch while models roamed the ornate estate.

The lavish event paid tribute to My Fair Lady's personification of the Edwardian era which legendary designer, Sir Cecil Beaton, characterized so eloquently in the 1964 film with gorgeous embroidery and applique, soutache passementerie, jet beadwork, and lace trim. Guests rose to the occasion by donning their favorite ascot hats and Sue Wong's sumptuously inspired gowns.

Actress Tippi Hedren attended in an ultra chic fedora, playing off the character of Professor Higgins, "I think the collection is probably one of the most beautiful in the whole world no matter how long you go back in the history of fashion. Sue Wong has such an air of elegance, glamour; everything you could possibly want," shared the Hollywood icon.

The Fall 2011 Collection is an homage to not only this magnificently detailed Edwardian styling, but to the film's theme of transformation as well, which is a prevailing theme in the basic design philosophy of the designer. "I believe that clothing has the ability to empower and transform a woman into the fantasy of her choice," says Wong, whose motto, "Beauty. Magic. Transformation." echoes the central theme of the film, in which a common street flower vendor, a 'guttersnipe' is transformed by one Professor Higgins into an elegant duchess.

The collection features ornately wrought gowns and cocktail dresses in rich satin, flowing chiffons and fine laces, embellished with Edwardian inspired beadwork, intricate embroidery and delicate applique with skirts of organza and ostrich feather. Beautiful, romantic, and elegant, the collection "can transform any woman into a goddess, enchantress and duchess" said Wong.

Sue Wong designs are sold in fine boutiques and department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom and in more than 27 countries globally.

Sponsors for the event included Fiji Water, PAMA Liqueur, South Coast Winery Resort and Spa, Napoleon Perdis, Hair By Sheena Mi Lee, Michael Antonio, Izze Sparkling Juice, What's Ur Bag, Ardell, and China Glaze. 

USA:Jackie Christie Black Collection to hit Fashion Minga Runway

 

NBA wife and top fashion designer Jackie Christie released her 2011 Jackie Christie "Black Collection" at LA Fashion Week for the popular Fashion Minga Runway show at Los Angeles hot spot Boulevard3 to a standing room only crowd of fashion connoisseurs.

Attendants were appreciative of her line that offered sexy, well-defined pieces that had a strong European flare, reminding one of the Paris and N.Y. runways. The collection raised major applause as her models cascaded down the catwalk, including celebrity model/actress Angell Conwell, from the popular TV soap The Young & The Restless.

Other celebrity guests who attended the show were J.R. Martinez of All My Children, Natasha Alam of True Blood, Printz Board of The Black Eyed Peas, Angell Conwell of The Young & The Restless, Thom Barry of Cold Case and The Fast & Furious, Vanessa Branch of Pirates of the Caribbean 1, 2, and 3, Baroness Stefanie Von Pfetten and Cedric Martinez of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Kenan Thompson of Saturday Night Live and Snakes on a Plane, Donna D'Errico of Austin Powers Goldmember and Baywatch, Harvey E. Walden,of VH1 Celebrity Fit Club, and Chani Christie, star of Cali Girls' cast members from Days of Our Lives and many more.

"It is always a pleasure for me to show my lines here in Los Angeles to such a supportive, fun and fashion forward crowd. I'm looking forward to showing my spring/summer 2012 collection this fall," states Christie Jackie, who will donate proceeds from the sales of her collection to local Los Angeles-based charities and homeless shelters, to serve the underprivileged with food, clothing and hygiene supplies through the Infinite Love foundation, which she runs with her husband, NBA star Doug Christie.

Jackie Christie, fashion designer, model, producer and best selling author, has dressed many celebrities, athletes, NBA wives, and many more in her pieces. She is the wife of NBA star Doug Christie and the CEO of the successful record label Jean Rah Fya Records. 

India:Khadi fashion show steals hearts of one and all

 

A fashion show solely showcasing khadi cotton and silk textiles clothing stole the hearts of the khadi lovers in the city of Ahmedabad. The fashion show was hosted at the вЂKhadi Utsav’, an exhibition of khadi textiles and garments.

Ahmedabad is playing host to a month long вЂKhadi Utsav’ in which more than 273 stalls have been set up, displaying khadi products from across various states of India. The fair which began on March 6 will run till April 6, 2011.

The concept of khadi textiles is synonymous with the father of the nation – Mahatma Gandhi. Khadi textiles were the driving force which united India in the movement to secure independence and in order to achieve self reliance in textile fabrics.

Today khadi institutions are producing good quality fabrics and in turn providing economic independence to the lowest strata of society, who are involved in the spinning and weaving activities of producing khadi fabrics.

According to Mr Anupam Mazumdar – a well known textile designer and consultant and some one who has been closely associated with handloom weavers of khadi fabrics, “The biggest advantage of wearing khadi textiles is that it carries the lowest carbon footprint among all textiles, which makes it a sustainable fabric”.

Mr Mazumdar conceptualized and directed the fashion show. He is also credited with designing the stole worn by the medal winners at the Commonwealth games held in India in 2010.

The fashion designers who partook in the fashion show included; Barsha Dutta, who runs a clothing brand in the name of “Brishti”, Rupal Majumdar who has a boutique called “Rupal’s” and finally Rutu Patel of “Rutu’s”.

Barsha Dutta presented pieces of western apparel designed from khadi fabrics. Rupal Majumdar too showcased her collection of ethnic garments and Rutu Patel presented an Indo-western fusion clothing collection.

The models totaling to around 20, showcased clothing made from shimmering silks and 100 percent pure cotton khadi fabrics.

Another highlight of the show was a fusion dance presented by young teenagers in between the fashion sequences.
 

UK:Minti collection to hit Frugi store

 

London based designer kids clothing shop Elias & Grace have announced that they are now stocking the latest top designer; Minti. The line will be stocked in their store in Primrose Hill as well as in their online boutique that already features top brands such as Petit Bateau, Album di Famiglia and Chloe to name but a few.

The clothes under the Minti kids designer range are known for conveying a quirky twist to the usual t shirts, shorts and other such items making them cool and fun to wear. Cotton garments are emblazoned with graphics and prints while denim jeans feature a hand destroyed look that gives them vintage cool. The clothes are designed by husband and wife teams, Nick and Amy Joblin and Nick and Jenny Clegg who apply the logic "what would I wear if I was small" to all their work. This has resulted in an edgy, urban cool look that both adults and children adore.

Minti started in New Zealand in 2003 and their influences from art, music and nature can be seen in the graphic designs of pandas, bears and abstract shapes. The latest collection from Minti features a t shirt for boys with a grey bear with вЂziggy’ style flash across his face. For girls, t shirts come in contemporary shades of white and grey with bold graphics such as cute rabbits with pink shades.

Elias and Grace owner Nickey Thrussell says “We are delighted to stock Minti, the Spring/Summer 11 collection rocks!” 

UK:Applications open for designers for LFW

 

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has now opened applications for designers to participate in London Fashion Week September 2011. There are five categories which designers can apply for: On schedule applications, which includes catwalk, presentation, digital presentation and menswear; The Exhibition; Estethica; NEWGEN, sponsored by TOPSHOP and NEWGEN MEN, sponsored by TOPMAN.

London Fashion Week is one of the world’s leading designer showcases alongside New York, Paris and Milan. With over 5,000 visitors, the audience is made up of UK and International press, buyers and industry professionals including key opinion formers. Last season London Fashion Week generated over £100 million worth of press coverage in the UK alone.

The Exhibition at LFW, based at Somerset House, showcases around 170 of the industry’s most creative UK and International designer businesses including both emerging and established accessories, jewellery and ready-to-wear labels. The BFC aims for The Exhibition to mirror the energy on the catwalk and presentation schedule.

Estethica is the BFC’s sustainable initiative sponsored by Monsoon. All potential Estethica designers must adhere to at least one of the three principles of fair-trade and ethical practices, organic and recycled materials and are selected for both their ethical credentials and design excellence. Estethica is the hub of London’s ethical fashion industry and recognised internationally as a leading showcase of ethical fashion.

The BFC NEWGEN scheme, currently sponsored by TOPSHOP was set up in 1993 with the mission of supporting the growth of original new collections which have the potential to make a mark on the international scene. Designers who have been in business for three years or less and are eligible to apply for the NEWGEN scheme and those selected will receive sponsorship and mentoring tailored to the scale and positioning of their products and businesses.

Judging is undertaken voluntarily by a panel of Britain’s top editors, buyers and talent scouts who compare entrants against the standards of excellence attained by former winners including some of Britain’s highest profile designers including Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson, Julien Macdonald and more recently Giles Deacon, Gareth Pugh, Christopher Kane, Marios Schwab, Richard Nicoll and Todd Lynn. Sarah Mower is the BFC’s Abassador for Emerging Talent and is the chair of this committee.

NEWGEN MEN, sponsored by TOPMAN, launched with success in September 2009. It provides menswear designers with business support, funding and the opportunity to use the official BFC venue, Somerset House, to host a catwalk show during London Fashion Week’s Menswear Day. Menswear Day is now going into its fifth consecutive season and has become instrumental in raising the profile of both emerging and established British menswear designers. Last season saw over 20 menswear designers, the highest number to date, showcase to a targeted audience of key menswear press and buyers.

London Fashion Week will run from Friday 16th – 21st September 2011 and is located at Somerset House, WC2. 

USA:GWEN BELOTI debuts Concerted Versatility

 

Having always had her own specific vision of what fashion is Gwen Beloti is pleased to launch her sixth collection, “Concerted Versatility”.

Feb. вЂ11 the Gwen Beloti Collection debuted its Fall 2011 collection in NYC; a compilation of quality and stylish pieces suitable for an array of occasions. The color pallet exuding a sense of warmth and comfort intensified with a subtle glow.

The inspiration for this collection was versatility. The goal was to create a line that was versatile yet cohesive. It is comprised of pieces that could be mixed and matched and paired with items already in the closet. There is a piece in here for every woman.

This collection divulges Gwen’s growth as a designer and the line’s affirmation as a brand. This womenswear clothing line that encompasses style and quality with an assortment of quality fabrics and unique designs conveys what the designer’s definition of fashion is.

The Gwen Beloti line prides itself on being able to provide original and distinctive garments and accessories for its customer; and enjoys catering to the woman who strives for quality and style on all occasions. 

India:Sabashe by Sabah Khan presents a rustic down to earth line

 

Sabah Khan’s Sabashe label presented a quaintly titled collection “Tuk Tuk” at Lakmé Fashion Week (LFW), which is another word for the Tangewala or Rickshawala. So how can a popular public transport inspire a designer?

As she travelled daily the pastel uniforms of the drivers, the bright coloured insides of the rickshaw walls, the typical curve of the vehicle made a creative impression on Sabah’s mind. Aimed at trendy, hep youth, the interesting ensembles came alive with the unique theme. Displaying a line of 16 outfits, Sabah had a striking variety which ranged from cute bikinis to hot pants, dhoti dungarees, waist coats, T backs - all ideal for summer wear with many mix and match options.

Patched panelled boleros, pre-stitched fabric blocked saris, shorts, jackets with rickshaw print, shredded waistcoats, cropped long sleeve jacket, tie up blouses, comfy loose pants, panelled long maxis - the look was pure divine kitsch. Mention has to be made of the very cute waist pouches, large colourful bags and neat flat sandals that matched the collection.

The showstopper was Bollywood’s star from the forthcoming movie “Naughty at 40”, Yuvika Chaudhary who danced down the ramp in a wired hand painted lehenga and racer back choli with the words “Keep Distance” on it.

Using cool linen in the pure and stretch forms with leggings and embellished with digital prints, the “Tuk Tuk” collection was a fun trendy look at summer gear. 

France:FLORIAN DENICOURT launches S/S collection for men

India:Kallol Datta makes a great impact on the Lakme ramp

 

DHL presented the future of fashion with the amazing collections of KallolВ DattaВ for summer/resort 2011 at lakmГ© fashion week .

Known for his quirky prints and edgy construction Kallol Datta for his label Kallol Datta 1955 went into vibrant colour mode wih hot tones of red, brown and yellow as the base hues for Summer/Resort 2011 at LakmГ© Fashion Week.

Carrying forward the “Jailstripes” “Checkered” and “Illustration” themes, Kallol returned with his prints for a predominantly western line having interesting ethnic closures. The fabric choice was varied ranging from Swiss voile, Habutai to net and kora. Kallol, known for his interesting construction techniques, had lean 3D shapes and patterns that merged with prints and layering while unconventional texturing was achieved with fabric cones.

The tie-dye 3D tie-up kurta and matching skinnies that opened the show set the mood of the collection. A prettyorange check top, shorts and a tasseled scarf had Kallol’sdistinct style. The checkered sari with a 3D pleated mini and underskirt revealed Kallol’s sense of style while the cowled pants and tunic in he same series were interesting.

The daring swinging apron with the open back in the illustration series was teamed with skinnies. Last seasonKallol was applauded for his straitjacket sari and skirtwhich he repeated but in a red and black combo. For a slightly more formal look, the tasseled maxi will get the wearer many compliments.

But it was however with the final entry from the Illustration series called Satya Saran dress that revealedKallol’s subtle sene of humor. The female form printed on the red dress had an unusual rear interest – a floorlength bunch of yarns plaited from the yoke that paid a tribute to veteran journalist Satya Saran’s crowning glory.

For arresting Summer/Resort 2011 creations, Kallol Datta made a great impact on the ramp at LakmГ© Fashion Week. 

India:LFW announces dates for Summer/Resort 2011

UK:Paul Costelloe appeals to workwear sector – вЂgive me a call’

 

One of Britain’s most well-established fashion designers said he can’t wait to swap the runways of London Fashion Week for the runways of Heathrow and Gatwick to design clothes for the workwear sector, including airlines and banks.

Paul Costelloe has told the organisers of the upcoming Workwear and Corporate Clothing Show, that he wants to design corporatewear and bring a sense of вЂje ne sais quoi’ to the sector which he feels lacks a spark of creativity in places.

Workers who are used to wearing outfits designed for function and practicality could soon be able to boast that it is also a Paul Costelloe.

And he made a direct appeal to the corporatewear industry to вЂPick up the phone and call me’. He said: “It’s important for the company that we are out there and seen as a fashion company but we can do corporatewear probably better than anybody in the world.

“Why? Because we’re a fashion house and having that fashion influence in our manufacturing makes us unique in the corporatewear business. It means that we can offer the вЂje ne sais quoi’ that corporatewear lacks sometimes.”

The industry’s leading figures will be attending the Workwear and Corporate Clothing Show on April 5 and 6 at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry. It is now in its fourth year and is the biggest show of its kind in the country, providing the most effective forum for manufacturers to connect directly with key decision makers, raise brand awareness, launch new products and generate sales leads.

The event includes its own fashion show featuring the latest trends in corporate and workwear for banks, airlines, emergency services and the construction industry among many others, where Mr Costelloe feels he can bring something new and exciting to the sector.

He added: “I can’t wait – please call me – whether its banks, airlines you name it. We are a totally vertical company now, we have the design and the manufacturing, the only thing we don’t have is the materials but we have very strong relationships with different manufacturing companies so we can offer that special look that should be what people want to live in and work in.”

Workwear and Corporate Clothing Show organiser Yvette Ashby said: “It would be great to have a designer of Paul Costelloe’s calibre and stature involved in the workwear and corporate clothing industry.

“It is a sector that does boast some fantastically talented designers and manufacturers already, but a fashion designer such as Paul Costelloe would bring something new to it, which would not only benefit customers but also the people who wear the garments.

“I’m sure it will be the talk of the upcoming Workwear and Corporate Clothing Show in April.” 

USA:Horiyoshi ties up with British designer Paul Smith

Australia:LMFF to celebrate return of Menswear with Helena Christensen

 

The L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival (LMFF) is proud to welcome international supermodel and photographer Helena Christensen to Australia for the 2011 Festival. Ms Christensen will appear on behalf of Specsavers in the LMFF Menswear Runway at Central Pier on Thursday March 17, 2011. It will be supported by GQ.

Specsavers is proud to bring Ms Christensen to Australia to launch Specsavers 2011 Spectacle Wearer of the Year competition. Joining Ms Christensen on the LMFF Menswear Runway will be over 20 of Australia’s best male models showcasing the autumn winter collections from leading Menswear designers including Arthur Galan AG, Autonomy, Alpha60, Campaign, From Britten, Farage, Three Over One and Vanishing Elephant. Ms Christensen will be wearing custom made designs from leading Australian designers including Alex Perry.

Grant Pearce, LMFF’s Creative Director is delighted bring Menswear to the LMFF Runway. “As the world’s largest consumer fashion event, our primary focus is to make fashion accessible to the public. We have seen a strong shift in men’s attitudes towards fashion and it represents a vital part of our retail landscape. It is only fitting that in 2011, LMFF has a standalone menswear show.

“We are thrilled to showcase such talented designers on the Menswear Runway and what better way to celebrate their return than with Ms Christensen walking in the show,” said Grant. The LMFF Menswear Runway will take place at Peninsula, Central Pier on Thursday March 17, 2011 at 10.30pm.

Helena Christensen – international supermodel and photographer hails from Denmark but currently lives in New York with her son, Mingus. She travels the world as a model and photographer, is an ambassador for the international organization Oxfam, for whom she documents the effects of the climate changes, and is working on several projects at the moment, amongst others creating lines for Habitat and lingerie collections for Triumph. 

Canada:Alumni Biffi shows for first time at Ottawa Fashion Week

UK:LONDON show ROOMS new partnership with Alcantara

 

As part of this season's LONDON show ROOMS initiative the British Fashion Council (BFC) and Alcantara are working together on a new range of products designed by David Koma, Louise Gray, Mary Katrantzou, Michael Van Der Ham and Todd Lynn – all of which will be showcasing their A/W 2011 collections at the LONDON show ROOMS this season in Paris and New York.

The product range includes three accessories: a bag, smart phone holder and iPad cover. Each designer has created an exclusive design for all three product categories and will be available to visitors attending LONDON show ROOMS. The collaboration will continue for the S/S 2012 collections.

The partnership highlights the relationship between fashion and techonology; a trend that has seen Alcantara become the material of choice for both classic and cutting-edge garments and accessories. Alcantara has a developed a long-standing relationship with designers looking for beautiful, top quality materials that respect the environment. The project brings British creativity together with Italian elegance ensuring that these accessories become genuine collector’s items.

The BFC’s International design initiative, LONDON show ROOMS, will this season take twenty of London’s leading womenswear design talents to Paris to increase their media presence and develop their businesses internationally. The initiative, which is now in its sixth season, enables the designers to sell their collections with the support of international marketing, media and sales advisers.

The New York showroom will be open at the Penthouse Lofts, Soho Grand, 310 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013 on Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd March 2011. 

UK:BFC to take leading emerging fashion talents to Paris

USA:Emma Watson to design organic clothing line

 

The lead actress of Hollywood film “Harry Potter” is venturing into the high-fashion world, as she teams up with Italian fashion house Alberta Ferretti to develop a range of organic clothing.

Emma has associated herself with the 'Pure Threads' collection, for consumers who support such causes.

The British actress is not new to the fashion industry, as prior to this too she has been Burberry's model for its 2009 A/W campaign, and even posed with her brother Alex in Burberry's S/S campaign in 2010.

She has also been working as a creative consultant with the fair trade fashion brand, People Tree since February 2010. It is believed that a part of her earnings from the Ferretti line would advantage People Tree.

Further, while talking about the venture, she stated that, she is delighted that a luxury fashion brand like Alberta Ferretti has resolved to develop a range of organic clothing.

Also she added that, she looks upon this move as an important step forward for entire international fashion industry, and also a significant move to raise understanding regarding the issue of ecology.
 

USA:Harry Potter star Emma Watson to introduce organic clothing

New Zealand:Akira Isogawa as international guest at iD Fashion Week

 

When Akira Isogawa, one of Australia’s most prominent contemporary fashion designers, arrives in town for iD Dunedin Fashion Week, he will bring with him a collection of exquisite designs which are highly sought after in every major fashion capital of the world. Further consolidating iD Dunedin’s place on the international fashion map will see Akira as a guest judge for the 2011 iD International Emerging Designer Awards on Thursday 7 April, 2011.

Key Points
- Akira Isogawa will attend iD Dunedin Fashion Week as iD’s international guest designer, following in the footsteps of British fashion royalty Zandra Rhodes, who attended in 2010. His collection will be shown on the runway at the iD Fashion Shows on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 April.

- Akira will arrive in New Zealand fresh from showing his Autumn/Winter collection at Paris Fashion Week. Since 1998, Akira has shown his collections in Paris, presenting to international buyers, and has shown at Australian Fashion Week every year since 1996. His designs are available globally.

- Named as Designer of the Year and Womenswear Designer of the Year at the Australian Fashion Industry Awards in 1999, Akira brings a strong intellectual and cultural element to Fashion Week. His flair for innovation and his pattern-making skills and use of textiles is highly regarded within the fashion industry. His work has elicited favourable reviews in journals such as The New York Times and US Vogue.

- Born in Kyoto, Japan, Akira moved to Australia in 1986 where he studied fashion design at the Fashion Design Studio, East Sydney Technical College (now Sydney Institute of Technology). Local Fashion Design Studio graduates include New Zealand fashion designer Tanya Carlson (CARLSON) and Otago Polytechnic fashion lecturer Margo Barton.

- The judging panel for the 2011 iD International Emerging Designer Awards includes Akira Isogawa, international guest designer; Stefano Sopelza, project supervisor of the Mittelmoda Fashion Award, Italy; and renowned New Zealand fashion designers Margi Robertson (Nom*D) and Tanya Carlson (Carlson).

- A public lecture will be given by Akira Isogawa during iD Dunedin Fashion Week, on Thursday 7 April.

- Watch out for further announcements including a national guest designer and other special guests.

Quotes
Akira Isogawa, international guest designer:
“I’ve found the creativity comes out of NZ has a unique point of view. As a designer, I find it important to stay in touch with new emerging talent and I hope I will be inspired by the fresh and newness of the creative emerging talent at the iD International Emerging Designer Awards.”

Margo Barton, Otago Polytechnic fashion lecturer and iD Committee member:
“People who have sewn or made patterns can see the way Akira’s technical expertise is married with his creativity through his extraordinary pattern cutting, he is a master. In addition his textiles are often embellished and luxurious, and add a feminine twist to his architectural lines. Students and aficionados of fashion alike are in for a treat with Akira and his clothes, sumptuous is the word that comes to mind.”
 

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

USA:LA Fashion Market to start on March 14

 

The California Market Center (CMC) will host the Fall 2011 Los Angeles Fashion Market (LA Fashion Market), Monday – Thursday, March 14-17, 2011, with showrooms open by appointment only on Sunday, March 13, 2011.

Visiting retailers will be able to preview established and emerging collections for women, men, children, gift and home in hundreds of permanent showrooms and in our expanded range of tradeshows including FOCUS Apparel & Accessories Show, TRANSIT LA Shoe Show and SELECT Contemporary Tradeshow. Registered retailers will also be welcomed to attend runway shows, seminars, sponsored lounges, beauty bars and other special events during this busy 4-day Market.

“Darling has been such a strong line for us, we are opening up a new showroom for them next to PerlmanRep,” said David Perlman of his new Darling showroom opening this March 15 in suite B523. “I already have several appointments set up for Monday and Tuesday. We expect this show to be even better then before- which was the best Market of my career.”

Additional new contemporary and young contemporary showrooms debuting this Market include Agenda in suite B413 (Herschel Supply Co, Imaginary Foundation, Freshjive, Primitive, TITS Brand, Flud Watches), Cedar Tree in suite A888, Lolli Factory in suite A860 and Tresics in suite B891 (Tresics, Tresics Femme, Free Bird). New lines debuting this Market include 1921 Denim (Primitives Showroom, suite B435), Seventh of Earl, Lounge Act, Un Jour Mon Price (Jennifer Michelle Sales, Suite B520), Forla Paris, Gypsy Daisy, Libertalia, C.C. Couture & Escorpion (Strategy LA, Suite B507), Buckaroo Jeans (929 Showroom, Suite B436), Miki Mialy (Creative Concepts, Suite A272), Wallet Be (Ute Wegmann/ Jim Rowley, Suite A1089) and many more. The contemporary floor located on the 5th floor, B-wing will also host a complimentary beauty bar Monday and Tuesday sponsored by Oliver Ifergan Salon, where buyers are invited to get trims, blowdrys and professional hair styling.

Other notable new tenants to the building this Market include WGSN’s West Coast headquarters in suite C1137, Packaging Services Inc. just off the main lobby in A-lobby 17, and MKC Customs Brokers in suite B276.

Several seminars will add to the new resources available at the CMC this Market starting Monday, March 14 at 12:00pm in suite A206 with “Using Social Media to Connect with New Customers,” presented by Mercedes Gonzalez of Global Purchasing Companies. On Tuesday, March 15 at 2:00pm, WGSN will present a Fall 2011 trend overview in the Penthouse (13th floor), A-side, led by Sally Lohan, Head of Content, Americas for WGSN. All seminars are open to registered retailers and industry guests.

Kicking off Market on Monday, from March 14- March 16, 2011, will be SELECT Contemporary Tradeshow, located in the Fashion Theater 9:00am – 6:00pm daily. SELECT will showcase a sold-out show of upmarket contemporary brands such as Ai for Ai, Azaara, Boutique 9, Gorjana, Linea Pelle, Magaschoni Apparel, Sam Edelman, Sophie Monet Jewelry, Twinkle by Wenlan, Whitley Kros, VOOM by Joy Han and more. Urth Caffé Downtown will sponsor complimentary coffee, mini cakes and pastries from 9:00am-11:00am Monday and Tuesday and Vita Coco Drinks will be served daily throughout the Show floor.
 

USA:LA Fashion Market going really well!

Brazil:Ashton & Alessandra team up for Colcci F/W line

 

As per the information recently released on the Colcci Facebook page, Hollywood star Ashton Kutcher has co-modelled Alessandra Ambrosio in ads for the Brazilian label’s fall/winter collection.

Colcci is amongst the leading fashion labels of Brazil. The recent ads shoot by Steven Klein, are supposed to be far better than last season’s ads.

All attributable to its star-studded casts, Colcci’s fashion shows remain to be a highlight of each of the Sao Paulo fashion week.

Also, it is not for the first time that the former professional fashion model Ashton Kutcher has posed for a jeans ad, as prior to this too he modelled for Pepe Jeans, some three years back.

Meanwhile, Alessandra Ambrosio too is best recognized for her endorsements for the lingerie brand Victoria’s Secret, which has recently launched its new collection of 'Incredible' bra.
 

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

UK:Independence for Karen Millen…

 

Aurora, the Group behind some of the UK's most respected women's fashion brands - Coast, Karen Millen, Oasis and Warehouse - announces that it proposes to establish Karen Millen as an independent company.

Under the plans announced Karen Millen will be established as a separate company with Coast, Oasis and Warehouse continuing as part of the Aurora Fashions Group.

Karen Millen operates in 40 countries around the world with global retail sales1 of circa £250 million and employs over 1,800 people. The company’s international presence comprises both owned businesses and franchise partnerships.

Derek Lovelock, chairman of Aurora Fashions, will become Executive Chairman of Karen Millen, working with Joint Managing Directors Gemma Metheringham and Steve Price to continue the phenomenal growth story of this 30 year-old design-led business.

Commenting on the new structure, Derek Lovelock said: “Karen Millen is one of the great success stories of British fashion retailing. Our track record is testament to the brand’s tremendous strengths, not least our signature international style and the passion for design and attention to detail that our customers love. Independence will give us the platform to accelerate our international expansion and to focus on the next stage of the Karen Millen journey. Our success, scale and ambitious growth plans mean that this is the next logical step.”

Gemma Metheringham and Steve Price, Joint Managing Directors of Karen Millen, added: “We have benefitted enormously from our position within the Aurora group, during which time Karen Millen has trebled in size and has been transformed from a small UK retailer to a truly global brand with circa 60 per cent of our sales from overseas. We have bold plans for our newly independent business, including opening flagship stores in Paris, Sydney, St Petersburg and Berlin this spring.”

The news follows last month’s announcement by Aurora that it had restructured its support functions, including outsourcing IT and distribution to Retail Assist and WT respectively, to continue to provide all its brands with best-in-class support services.

Mike Shearwood, Chief Executive of Aurora Fashions, commented: “This is the continuation of Aurora’s strategy to drive shareholder value by ensuring our brands are positioned for further growth. Karen Millen’s global expansion means that its funding requirements are different to the rest of the group and this new structure is appropriate to meet the demands of both groups going forward. Coast, Oasis and Warehouse will focus on driving market share through meeting our customers’ demands across all channels both in the UK and internationally.”

Aurora Fashions owns, develops and manages the performance of some of the UK’s most respected women’s fashion brands - Coast, Oasis and Warehouse - which are all aimed at the higher end of the market. Aurora Fashions’ brands are among the most recognised in the UK and internationally with 1,278 stores in 33 countries.

Karen Millen is an iconic fashion brand offering distinctive, affordable luxury to confident women, currently operating in 311 locations and 40 countries around the globe. 

Turkey:Istanbul Fashion Fair to held on Aug 26-28

UK:Katie Holmes is Max Mara вЂFace of the Future’

 

Katie Holmes has been conferred with the "Face of the Future" award by the Italian fashion label Max Mara.

The award is given annually to acknowledge the recipient’s style, talent and contribution to the society.

Holmes is quite delighted with such recognition as she holds high admiration for the label. She said that, she loves to wear the Max Mara garments for their beautiful styling and for the comfort that they offer.

Ian Griffiths, Max Mara’s Head of Design, said that, Holmes has been chosen, because she best personifies a MaxMara customer.

The model flaunts an elegant and contemporary style, which perfectly goes with the MaxMara style, as it makes the person sporting it feel, so confident that they look good while doing anything, regardless of how they look, Ian said.
 

USA:Nina Gleyzer brings flawless style to CFW

UK:Gok Wan designs for Tu at Sainsbury's

 

Sainsbury's announced a major partnership with fashion expert Gok Wan. TV personality and style guru Gok will create a number of womenswear collections for the supermarket, with the first due to hit the shelves this autumn.

The collections will reflect Gok's philosophy of making women feel confident, stylish and positive about their bodies, whatever their size or shape.

Gok Wan said: "I can't wait to get started; this is a first for me. While I've styled thousands of women over the years, soon millions of women are going to be able to wear something I've created."

Luke Jensen, Sainsbury's non-food managing director, said: "TU clothing has become a major growth area for Sainsbury's, based on the concept of delivering style and quality, at affordable prices.

"Over the next few years we will continue to dedicate more space to clothing, with new store openings and the development of existing sites. As we continue to grow and expand our ranges, we're delighted to bring Gok's unique talent, as a democratiser of style and fashion, to our millions of customers. We're looking forward to working with Gok and to learning new ways to make our shoppers look and feel fantastic."

Sainsbury's launched its Tu clothing range in September 2004. The brand now accounts for 3% of all clothing, footwear and accessory sales in the UK, spanning womenswear, menswear and childrenswear.

Over the past five years, the retailer has seen its share of the ВЈ9.9bn value fashion market more than treble. 

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

France:Paul Deneve joins Yves Saint Laurent fashion house

 

François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of PPR, announced the appointment of Paul Deneve as CEO of Yves Saint Laurent, effective April 2011. He will succeed Valérie Hermann who, after six years at the helm of the Yves Saint Laurent fashion house, has chosen to seize a new career opportunity in the United States.

François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PPR, noted: “I am pleased to welcome Paul Deneve to the PPR Group. Paul has had a remarkable career in the Luxury Goods universe. His proven entrepreneurial skills, expertise and leadership qualities, as well as his determination, have convinced me that he is the right person to guide the future of the Yves Saint Laurent fashion house in close collaboration with Creative Director Stefano Pilati. I thank Valérie Hermann wholeheartedly for her commitment by my side since 2005. She has done a remarkable job with unwavering enthusiasm and efficiency. Today, Yves Saint Laurent is one of the most beautiful luxury brands in the world. In 2010, it turned in an outstanding operational and financial performance. I wish Valérie the fulfillment and success she deserves in her future endeavors.”

Paul Deneve began his career with Exxon EMEA in 1985, then with Apple Europe in 1990. He joined CourrГЁges as Managing Director from 1998 to 2003 before becoming President of Nina Ricci until 2005. He was Deputy CEO of Lanvin from 2006 to 2008.

Paul Deneve, 49, is a Belgian national. He is a graduate of Solvay Business School and holds a MBA from the University of Chicago and a Master of Science in Management degree from Stanford University.

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. The PPR share is listed on Euronext Paris (FR 0000121485, PRTP.PA, PPFP).

PPR Luxury Business Group (Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Yves Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Boucheron, Sergio Rossi, Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney), Puma, Fnac and Redcats (La Redoute, Vertbaudet, Somewhere, Cyrillus, Daxon, Ellos, The Sportsman's Guide, The Golf Warehouse and Large size division brands). 

USA:Joanna Giudice turns trash into trend-setting fashion art education

UK:Roland Mouret opens Flagship London & design house

 

Simon Fuller's partner in business and leading European fashion designer Roland Mouret opens his first store and design house. Appropriately situated in the heart of London's distinguished Mayfair, the iconic store opening comes towards the end of London Fashion Week.

Simon Fuller, Mouret’s business partner comments: “This is another important and special moment for Roland Mouret. Several months ago we regained the right to use his name on his designs and now his name will proudly stand above his first store in Carlos Place, London. This is the beginning of another wonderful journey for one of the world's most talented and respected designers.”

The store opens at 8 Carlos Place, London, W1, and includes both Mouret's Womenswear and Menswear collections across two retail floors, in addition to the designer's atelier, workshops, studios and a showroom. Mouret will also be showcasing a new range that will be entirely exclusive to the illustrious store, part of the “Roland Mouret at 8 Carlos Place” concept devised to develop unique products from, and available exclusively at, the flagship store.

Roland Mouret says that he is "very excited" about the new store, adding: "I hope it brings the magic of Avenue Montaigne into the heart of Mayfair and I am bracing myself for the challenge ahead, what a new brand should stand for in the 21st century. We wanted to offer our retail clients something unique and special in the store – our new house - and I hope we have created the environment in which to do that.” Mouret is famous for his Galaxy Dress, a favourite of Hollywood stars that include Cameron Diaz, Demi Moore, Rachel Weisz and Scarlett Johansson.

Simon Fuller is one of the most influential and dynamic men in the entertainment business. Creator of the TV shows that define our generation and sculpt the future of our entertainment industry, Fuller's XIX Entertainment has made him the most significant manager of modern times. Although well reputed for his interests in music and sport through his management of big names like The Spice Girls, Andy Murray and David Beckham, Simon Fuller is now a growing force in fashion as his businesses with Victoria Beckham and Roland Mouret prove.  

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

France:PremiГЁre Vision / Expofil: a double-digit increase

 

Stronger together! The PremiГЁre Vision Pluriel shows again reaffirm the strength of their unique ensemble.

For the edition that just closed (8-10 February 2011), attendanceclimbed by 6.5% compared to the February 2010 session, with 55,792 visits by fashion professionals from over 100 countries. This remarkable vitality was driven by the dynamism of each individual show, with all six events (Expofil, PremiГЁre Vision, Indigo, Le Cuir Г  Paris, ModAmont, Zoom by Fatex) registering increases.

The rise in numbers was accompanied by a very positive business climate at all the shows.Beyond the enthusiastic reception for the season's new creations and innovations, discussion in the aisles and stands focussed on the soaring prices of raw materialsand supplies. This is an issue of uncertainty and often concern for fashion sector businesses, and will surely play a major role in the markets in the coming months.

A notable increase in pre-registrations already pointed to a successful edition. And the three days of the show have confirmedand amplified on this early positive indicator. With 45,135 professional visits, PremiГЁre Vision and Expofil togetherregistered a 10.3% increase over February 2010. The double-digit growth testifies to a certain recovery in the markets, and underlines the draw that the world's premier fabrics' show has onthe fashion world.

A view expressed by Franco Lay, head of exports for the Italian company Giolica srl, participating for the first time in the show. "The show brought us results that were above our expectations, and our clients liked our fashion proposals.Thanks to PremiГЁre Vision, the number of clients able to view our collection was very high."

International visitors, one of the show's matchless assets, continue to register remarkable scores, and now represent over 72% of total visits.

All major geographic zones reflected increases.

Americans crossed the Atlantic in significant numbers to be here at the Paris event. The United States alone accounted for some 1,500 visits, a rise of close to 10% over the comparable 2010 session. South America also showed a strong increase of 10.3% for the whole of the sub-continent. Brazil, the leading country in the South American textile industry, where PremiГЁre Vision has recently established a joint venture, showed a rise of 13.7%.

A similar growth dynamic was found for Argentina (+ 30%),Venezuela (+ 18.2%), Colombia (+ 8.7%) and Mexico (+ 6.8%). A similar vitality was manifested on the other side of the globe, with Asian visits as a whole rising by 30.4%. Attendance by Japanese professionals picked up 28%, to reach 1,253 visits. As for China, in spite of an overlap with the Chinese New Year celebrations, the country strengthened its presence with a growthof more than 41% in number of visits. Chinese professionals are currently pleased with the welcome extended to them at the exhibitors' stands.
 

USA:Macy’s partners with Phillies for fashion contest