USA : Winners of 'Get Down To Daytona' Contest

The winners in the Harley-Davidson Get Down to Daytona Contest were announced and will receive an expense paid road trip for two from Atlanta to Daytona Bike Week ’08 alongside Karen Davidson, great-granddaughter of one of the Company’s founders, as well as a three nights stay in Daytona.

Harley-Davidson chose six finalists on Nov. 28 and posted them online for viewer voting to begin. At the end of the voting period on Dec. 12, Harley-Davidson decided that all six finalists would be chosen as winners and receive the trip of a lifetime for them and a guest.

“Interest in the Harley-Davidson Get Down to Daytona contest exceeded our expectations,” said Leslie Prevish, manager, women’s outreach, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. “We are thrilled with the response we have received to the contest videos.

All of the finalists’ stories are truly inspirational, and the nearly 35,000 voters felt the same way. So, we have decided to extend the prize package and invitation to all six women and their guests to join us on the Get Down to Daytona Ride.”

The six winners in alphabetical order are: Carol Dicicco from Chalfont, Pa; Tonya Lamia from Rockford, Ill; Kimberly Ryon from Harford, Pa; Shelli Strand from Birch Run, Mich; Jennifer Thorne from Mt. Pleasant, Pa; and Teresa Weston from Hermitage, Tenn.

Harley-Davidson

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Italy : Stefanel brand Q3 net sales rise 5.2%

The Board of Directors of Stefanel S.p.A. met under the chairmanship of Giuseppe Stefanel and approved the Group's consolidated results for the first nine months of the current year.

The Stefanel business unit has continued the process started in previous seasons of repositioning its brand with a view to turning it into an "accessible designer label". This process involves a substantial change in product and image with a consequent shift in customer base and inevitable effects on short-term performance.

Although the third-quarter figures and, particularly those relating to the Fall/Winter 2007 collection, reflect the difficulties and costs involved in such a sweeping change, they are starting to show the first signs of an improving trend in sales. In fact, the third quarter has reported a 10% growth in revenues, partly thanks to consistent comparative growth in sales of around 10% on the Italian market for the Fall/Winter collection.

The Interfashion business unit has reported positive results in the first nine months of the year, in line with expectations. In detail, revenues increased by 6.1% in the third quarter, during which the first collection bearing the High label started to be sold. The second line of the designer Antonio Marras also continued to be developed during the period, sales of which will commence with the Fall/Winter 2008 collection and which, along with the High label, will make up the new portfolio of brands produced and sold by Interfashion.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : NIKE acquires 19.9% of Umbro shares from Sports Direct

NIKE Inc announced that the company's wholly owned subsidiary NIKE Vapor Ltd. has acquired 19.9 percent of Sports Direct International's holdings in Umbro plc. The shares were purchased at 193.06 pence per share (approximately $3.83 per share), which is the all-cash offer price Nike announced on October 23 to acquire Umbro.

Sports Direct International has also given an irrevocable undertaking to vote its remaining 10 percent stake in Umbro in favor of the Transaction at the Court Meeting and General Meeting to be held on January 31, 2008. This irrevocable undertaking will remain binding in the event that a competing offer for Umbro is announced.

Mark Parker, President and CEO of Nike, said: "We are pleased to have acquired this strategic stake in Umbro, which gives us a strong platform from which to proceed with our acquisition of this iconic football brand. We remain fully committed to our compelling offer for Umbro, which continues to have the support of both Umbro's Board of Directors and the Football Association."

On October 23, Nike announced that it has reached agreement for an all-cash offer of GBP 285 million (approximately $565 million) to acquire Umbro. The Board of Directors of Umbro plc has unanimously recommended that shareholders accept the offer.

Umbro is a leading United Kingdom-based global football (soccer) brand with more than 70 years of experience in the world's No. 1 sport and the world's biggest football market.

Read Full News Click Here

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Spain : Inditex bags ISR 2007 Award

Inditex has been rewarded for the outstanding international renown of a Spanish company within the V Edition of the Awards to Internationalisation, presented by the Club of Exporters and Investors.

This prize which rewards the international renown of the Group as well as its determined commitment to its cross-border expansion has been presented by the Club of Exporters and Investors, an institution made up of Spanish companies whose external activity contributes significantly to increasing the international weigh of the Spanish economy.

The award was presented by Mr Joan Clos, the Minister for Industry, Tourism and Trade of Spain, and accepted by Mr Antonio Abril, General Counsel of the company, who pointed out in his speech that “in order to go on expanding our international presence, we must keep a strategy based on constant improvement, but most of all, we have great confidence in the motivation of the human team of the company, upwards of 75,000 employees, the driving force of the evolution of the Group.”

ISR (Institute for the Sustainability of Resources) Award
In addition, Inditex has also been the recipient of the ISR 2007 Award for its environmental policy, as recognition of the work done in this area and of the ambitious goals provided under its 2007-2010 Environmental Strategic Plan. The Board of Trustees of ISR is made up of Spanish and Portuguese public and private entities concerned about sustainability, the efficient use of resources and the environment.

Inditex Group

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : 16.3 mn kids have Heelys on their holiday wish list!

Dallas-based, Heelys Inc says an estimated 16.3 million kids 6-18 years of age want a pair of Heelys skate shoes this Holiday season. The popular Heelys which features a removable stealth wheel in the heel recently rolled out its latest styles just in time for the Holiday season along with a variety of collectible wheels and shoes laces.

“Heelys skate shoes are a popular gift item every holiday season and this year is no exception,” said Jim Peliotes, Vice President of Marketing for Heelys, Inc. “Kids have so much fun and parents see the value of their kids getting out of the house and exercising. All of the new designs, styles, wheels and laces allow kids to show off their own individual style.”

According to Weekly Reader Research, Heelys remain very popular with kids 6-12 years of age. In fact, 11.3 million kids in this segment have Heelys on their wish list. “Older kids” 13-18 years of age represent a large segment as well comprising 5 million kids wanting Heelys this Holiday season.

“It’s not too late to get your Heelys,” said Charlie Beery, Senior Vice President of Global Sales for Heelys, Inc. “Our retail partners are ready for the last minute shoppers and have a wide selection to choose from.”

Heelys Inc

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Germany : Time for beautiful stones comes again from Minerals Days

If you have not been to the Minerals Days Munich from 2 - 4 November 2007, you have really missed something: the special exhibition “Gemstones of the Himalayas“ presented the presumably largest and most valuable collection of gemstones from the countries around the Himalayas that has ever been seen.

Even celebrities such as the Sheik of Qatar or Reinhold Messner did not miss the chance to be present and were truly impressed by the variety and quality of stones. The most eye-catching stone was probably “The Asian Rose“, a white, light-flooded tourmaline crystal ready to unveil its deep-red soul to viewers.

In three exhibition halls, more than 1,000 exhibitors from 52 countries presented a colourful and glamorous potpourri: diamond, aquamarine, ruby, rock crystal, amber and many more both in their natural forms and incorporated into rings, chains, balls, lamps or massage rollers.

The broad range displayed attracted over 38,000 visitors to the Minerals Days Munich, almost 10% more enthusiasts of the beautiful stones and natural treasures than in 2006.

Another highlight of the largest fair for minerals, fossils and gemstones were the extremely beautiful “fossils from Monte Bolca”: imprints of fish and plants that took visitors on a time travel 50 million years back.

Whether crocodile, jellyfish or angelfish – every living creature leaves its mark. The Natural History Museum Verona presented top collectibles that many a collector would like to call his own.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

India : Kareena - charismatic queen of fashion

The undisputed glamour queen and the highest paid actress in Bollywood, Kareena Kapoor is becoming an icon for the country’s youth.

Most recently she is being recognized as a trend setter swanking distinctive style that so naturally reflects her inherent and captivating beauty. An instance can be cited from her latest release ‘Jab We Met’ where she flaunts a long T-shirt teamed with a pair of Patiala. It goes without saying that this trend has become a fad already and is considered by most fashion enthusiasts as ‘in vogue’.

Kareena did the same to her earlier films like Yuva and Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham where she publicized the movie by just being a part of it.

Kareena is known for not only experimenting with her looks to add that extra X factor but also for trying out different roles and doing justice to them. She perfectly defines the word ‘exemplary’ and maintains her image as a ‘Bollywood Diva’ ensuring that her list of fans remains intact.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Germany : Casual touch in Birmingham collection

Birmingham focuses on city wear with a casual touch. Up-to-the-minute sporty cuts in cord or tweed such as high-collar jackets and boot pants feature attractive details such as toggle fastenings, chunky hand-stitching and tweed patches on knits.

Must-have outfits include eye-catching fancy jackets and striking checked jackets, combined with quality fine gabardine to create a groomed, stylish city look.

The clothing company "Hanse-Kleidung Willi Bürgel" was founded in May 1946.

In August 1946 a second branch was opened in Berlin, which became the company´s headquarters in 1950.

delmod international GmbH & Co KG

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

India : Westside brings back Christmas magic

Jingle all the way to Westside for an unforgettable Christmas celebration. Celebrate the festival of joy and giving with WESTSIDE, as the stylish store from the house of Tatas is all set to spread the magic with the most eagerly awaited X’mas promotion.

Walk into the store with your family on weekends from December 15th – 30th and indulge in fun-filled activities with Santa including caricatures, hair braiding, puppet & magic show, and tattoo artists!

Westside brings back the Christmas magic at its stores with attractive decorations like the X’mas Tree, X’mas bells and fairy tale cut outs with Santa.

Every Saturday and Sunday from December 15th to 30th, the kids can spend an entire day with Santa Claus and participate in many activities like tattoo, caricatures, hair braiding, puppet & magic shows, while the parents shop to their heart’s content.

With all these exciting activities all this month, Westside’s exclusive Christmas collection also adds spark to the festive spirit.

The collection for girls include corduroy dress in pink, embroidered skirts, capris with lace, denim skirts and dungrees, leggings with studs and lots more!.

WESTSIDE

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

India : Adora Diamond Jewellery launches Bridal Collection

Adora Diamond Jewellery the trend setters in diamond jewellery have introduced range of diamond jewellery for the brides called the Bridal Collection.

The new collection for the would be brides is actually a fusion jewellery concept keeping in mind the ethnic background and fusion influence in which women of are comfortable. As `THE BRIDE OF TODAY IS WOMEN OF TOMORROW,' such a collection can be worn on ethnic as well as fusion attire.

Adora's new bridal collection is a blend of elegant and modern intricate designs to adorn every Indian woman. Also what makes this collection a perfect bridal collection is the weight of the jewellery designed which is very light.

``Since the bride has to keep the jewellery worn till all the ceremonies of the marriage are complete a heavy weight jewellery makes the bride actually very irritated,'' says Prabir Chatterjee, managing director , Concept Jewellery(I) Pvt Ltd.

Such heavy designed jewellery then finds its place in the cupboard locker with the bride losing interest in them, adds Prabir Chatterjee, ``This is where Adora stands out making the bride of comfortable and women of tomorrow merrier'', lamented Prabir.

Mini Virdi head, designing department, Adora informed that a telephonic conversational study was actually conducted with the brides of yesterday who wore heavy jewellery when they were brides.

The finding was that 99 percent brides have actually not worn the bridal jewellery for any function outside her in-laws house other than some function celebrated there says the study.

Hence the light weight bridal collection which took us six months to design and develop the actual sets of bridal jewellery added Mini.

She added that solitaires and bigger stones have been used in the jewellery so that the bride stands out not only on her wedding day but the life after that.

Our brand is based on emotions and love. Marriage is a bond of love, we take special care in designing it added Prabir Chatterjee.

Concept Jewellery(I) Pvt Ltd

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : BelaHockey new hockey gear & apparel line for girls

BelaHockey, a new line of hockey gear and apparel produced exclusively for girls, is proud to announce the official launch of its web store becoming the first company to focus entirely on attracting girls to the sport.

Founded by a group of local hockey moms and hockey legend Cammi Granato, the women of BelaHockey are on a mission to expand the hockey apparel market and encourage more girls to take up the sport that has long been tailored to boys.

Until, girls interested in playing hockey often received the message that it’s a boys sport with all the equipment and clothing primarily designed for males.

Drawing from its founders’ personal experiences, BelaHockey is proud to offer an exclusive line of equipment and apparel for girls including long-sleeve cotton tee-shirts, pink and purple custom hockey socks, personalized polka dot hockey sticks and an innovative sports headband.

Traditional hockey gear such as socks and sticks have been updated and redesigned with fun graphics and patterns to allow girls to express their personality and style on the ice and are available.

“Growing up playing hockey, I was always one of the only girls, whether it was at home with my brothers or in the local youth league,” said Granato. “I was comfortable on the ice but felt self conscious in the lobby where it was clear that I was a girl playing a boy’s sport.

By offering girls hockey gear designed exclusively for them, we’re reinforcing that hockey is their sport too. We hope BelaHockey will motivate other girls to pick up a stick and try the great game of hockey.”

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

UAE : Indian jewellery & art works at ‘Art and Antiques Dubai’

Indian jewellery and related works of art will feature at the debut of ‘Art and Antiques Dubai’ from the 21-24 February, 2008, at the Madinat Arena, Madinat Jumeirah, an event that will showcase in excess of USD 200 million worth of art works.

With India in such close proximity to the Gulf States and a large expat Indian community already resident in Dubai, the organizers of ‘Art and Antiques Dubai’ anticipate keen interest in the period Indian material on view and on sale at the fair.

The scope and variety of Indian art is vast, from ancient times to the present day, developing through history according to the religious, political and cultural emphasis of specific periods.

This diversity is expressed in works of art that include fabulous jewellery, boxes, weaponry, textiles and vintage photography.

It may seem as though Indian contemporary art is making all the headlines at present but, as Samina Khanyari of Samina Inc.in London reminds us “a love affair” has been going on with the antique “Jewelled Arts of India” for a very long time among both museum buyers and private collectors.

“There has always been a great passion for Indian arts and antiques – decorative, religious, or jewelled. At the moment contemporary Indian art is generating a lot of interest but Indian antique pieces are still the international favorite, having stood the test of time.”

Samina Inc is one of the world’s leading dealers in and authorities on 17th-20th century Indian jewellery, selling to collectors all over the world.

Source at FIbre2fashion.com

India : ‘Diamond Festival’ main feature of Wedding Asia 07

Another year, another fabulous show………. Excelsior, in its high spirits again up with an opulent and ostentatious wedding festival for Punjabis, exhibited its mega-event Wedding Asia-07 at Majestic Park Plaza from 14th to 16th December, 2007.

Last year, Wedding Asia-06 generated a tremendous response from all across Punjab and Punjabis and NRIs took immense pleasure while spinning around the big bazaar of unbelievable show of all wedding necessities. Around100 participants from all across the country are participating in this event.

Princess inside every bride becomes visible with the rare, eternal diamonds. “Diamond Festival” was the main feature of “Wedding Asia 07” as it unveiled the colored gems, stones studded chic and classy jewelry including diamond Bracelets, drop-dead gorgeous rings, shiny chandelier earrings, solitaries, sparkling necklace, jadau, kundan kanganas.

Wide range of sapphires, emeralds, pearls, earthy kundans, and other precious gems immaculately patterned in elegant platinum, white and yellow gold allured the crowd to the jewelers’ counters.

As excelsior has already carved a niche in the history of Punjab while organizing Wedding Asia-2006 in sizzling tinsel town, Excelsior was again here with the second edition of the Wedding Asia to rock the city, all by itself. From all across the India, Wedding Asia brought together the continent’s designer to the city.

The grand event Wedding Asia-07 was sponsored by M.B.Jewellers & sons and Vikas diamonds from Delhi. Times of India and FM Radio were associated with the event as media partners.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Sweden : Supermodel Alek Wek models Lindex Christmas lingerie

Christmas will be extra glamorous this year. Supermodel Alek Wek will model Lindex's Christmas lingerie, which brightens up the winter darkness.

"We chose Alek because she shows off our lingerie to fabulous effect. Alek is unique and expressive as a model, and highlights our collection phenomenally.

This, combined with her background, makes Alek a symbol for courageous women," says Johan Hallin, Lindex's marketing manager.

Born in Sudan, Alek fled to Great Britain with her family in 1991 to escape the civil war. She was discovered by a model scout in 1995.

Alek has modelled for names such as Issey Miyake, Moschino and Victoria's Secret, and has appeared in fashion shows for John Galliano. She also designs her own line of handbags, and released her autobiography, Alek, this autumn.

"This year's lingerie collection has an incredibly luxurious feel. It's characterised by contrasts, for example between matte/shiny and satin/velvet.

Shiny and metallic effects dominate the collection. The lingerie is like jewellery - gorgeous and wonderfully glamorous," says Inger Lundqvist, Business Area Manager Lingerie.

The campaign will run from November 14th up until Christmas in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic, on outdoor billboards and in Lindex stores.

Lindex AB

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Brazil : Rio fashion show at Marina da Glória

The organizatiion of Fashion Rio has just released its fashion show schedule for the 2008 Fall / Winter edition which will be held January 7-12 at Marina da Glória.

ABIT supports the event, which is created and organized by Dupla Assessoria and put on by the Firjan System. The ABIT web site will once again bring full coverage of the fashion shows in English and Portuguese.

Day – January 7 - Monday
5:00pm – Press Conference
7:00pm – Lilica Ripilica

Day – January 8 - Tuesday
11:00am – Victor Dzenk
4:00pm – New Stylists: Giulia Borges and Luciana Galeão
5:00pm – Apoena
6:00pm – Mara Mac
7:30pm – Melk Z-da
8:30pm – DTA
10:30pm – Colcci

Day – January 9 - Wednesday
11:00 – Tessuti
4:00pm – New Stylists: Homem de Barro and Caroline Rossato
5:00pm – Juliana Jabour
6:00pm – Maria Bonita Extra
7:30pm – Eliza Conde
8:30pm – Coca-Cola Clothing
9:30pm – Cavendish

Day – January 10 - Thursday
11:00 – Santa Ephigênia
4:00pm – Virzi
5:00pm – Coven
6:00pm – Cantão
7:30pm – Têca
8:30pm – Drosófila
9:30pm – TNG

Day – January 11 - Friday
11:00 – Redley
3:30pm – Rio Moda Hype
5:00pm – AcquaStudio
6:30pm – Graça Ottoni
8:00pm – Márcia Ganem
9:30pm – Sandpiper

Day – January 12 - Saturday
3:30pm – Rio Moda Hype
5:00pm – Acomb
6:30pm – Rita Wainer
8:00pm – Ivan Aguilar
9:30pmp – Alessa.

Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

India : Cool, calm & classic watch collection for winter wedding

Tommy Hilfiger watches has introduced a new range for the winter wedding season.

The bold & elegant designs – The Modern Automatic Classics & The Rose Gold collection offer a sense of fresh style, underpinned by careful attention to quality and functionality, and finished with unique Tommy Hilfiger signature details.

Tommy Hilfiger - The Modern Automatic Classics:
The Tommy Hilfiger automatic watch features a modern stainless steel, tonneau-shaped case. Its elegant white dial is cut-out to display the intricate self-winding mechanism.

The cool, calm and collected, a classic new design with automatic movement. A unique window into the automatic working in the cushion shaped case.

Race-inspired motion is AUTOMATIC:
Inspired by motion racing, a new automatic sports collection is designed. Automatic movement seen through a cutout window and a polycarbonate case exposing the inner mechanics

Tommy Hilfiger – Rose Gold:
Tommy Hilfiger offers an exciting array of fashionable Rose Gold watches with stylish and bold designs. Presenting your unique personal styles by do-it yourself watch set.

One watch with three looks: crystal stones, rose gold plated and stainless steel bezels with two leather straps matching with your different looks from casual to elegant.

Reversible Chic:
A watch for business woman from day to night. Rectangular rose gold plated case with black-brown reversible Strap. Turing around the strap and changing into a new look for the party night.

Tommy Hilfiger Corporation

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

UAE : Dubai displays outstanding diamond studded apparel

Gianfranco Ferre a very popular Italian designer collaborated with diamond company and DTC sightholder Dalumi to create a sparkling diamond studded top worth US $1.3 million.

The awesome and unique creation is put up for auction in Dubai and was flaunted by British rock singer Skin at Ferré’s designer’s women collection for winter 2007. Astonishingly, the top is made by besetting around 905 diamonds in 18 carat white gold and woven with another 254 carat.

The eye-catching outfit was revealed yesterday at the Dubai International Jewellery Week.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Hong Kong : Special shoes to protect elephant feet

The GORE-TEX Hong Kong team came to the rescue of two of Singapore Zoo's Asian elephants in need of special footwear.

The intensive year-long effort by the zoo and W. L. Gore & Associates, creators of the legendary GORE-TEX fabric, recently culminated in the elephants being presented with comfortable yet protective footwear to help with their ongoing foot problems.

As the world's largest land animal, elephants naturally place an enormous amount of stress on their feet. Due to a bad stumble a number of years ago, Tun, the younger of the two elephants, has one front leg longer than the others.

As a result, she limps painfully and the extra pressure she places on the shorter front leg has created lesions on the sole of this foot. Meanwhile, 30-year-old Jamilah has lesions on the soles of both her front feet owing to her habit of swaying from side to side.

As Singapore Zoo veterinarian, Dr Sonja Luz explains, treatment has been difficult. "Try asking an elephant to take some weight off for a while," she jokes.

Dr Luz's team began thinking about ways to protect the elephant's bandages so that the lesions had time to heal. Tun's unbalanced walk also had to be addressed if she was to have a chance of full recovery.

"The best solution we could think of was some type of protective boot that was durable enough for elephant wear-and-tear and possibly also waterproof, it had to be made from a material that allowed the wound to breathe to prevent fungal infections. Most importantly, it would also provide comfort to the elephant."

"GORE-TEX fabric immediately came to mind," she says. In December 2006, Dr Luz contacted W. L. Gore & Associates in Hong Kong to seek expert advice on whether the breathable, waterproof technology of GORE-TEX footwear could possibly be adapted to footwear solutions for the elephants. The project immediately captured the hearts and minds of the product development team.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Legendary Pink Cadillac to make debut in Mexico

Mary Kay Inc will commemorate the start of its 20th year of enriching women’s lives in Mexico with ribbon-cuttings at its brand new headquarters and distribution center, the anniversary of the Monterrey-based subsidiary’s establishment.

The approximately 49,000-square-foot headquarters and 144,000-square-foot distribution center, both located in the Nuevo Leon region of Northern Mexico, replace and are nearly double the size of the Company’s previous headquarters and distribution facilities located in Monterrey.

Mary Kay’s $20 million combined investment in the two sites reflects its steadfast commitment to Mexico, which has consistently ranked as one of the Company’s top-performing subsidiaries.

The new distribution center will focus on serving the needs of some 200,000 Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants throughout Mexico. The center features new technology designed to reduce operational time, verify the accuracy of orders and ensure safe delivery of products.

Mary Kay Mexico is among just three companies in Mexico who currently utilize this progressive technology for order fulfillment. Approximately 75 million units are expected to be shipped from the distribution center annually, increasing the Company’s business capacity by 50 percent and enhancing its longstanding reputation for providing excellent customer service.

Among the highlights of today’s festivities is the presentation of the famous pink Cadillac for the first time in Mexico. Seventeen Independent National Sales Directors in Mexico – who have earned the use of the most coveted incentive awarded by the Company and one of the most recognized brand symbols in the world -- will receive their car keys during a ceremony preceding the ribbon-cuttings.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Sweden : 6 million collected by Lindex in aid of Pink Ribbon

For the fifth year in a row, Lindex has lent a hand and collected money for Pink Ribbon. Lindex and its customers have donated a good 6 million to the fight against breast cancer.

As well as selling pink ribbons, Lindex donated one Swedish krona for every bra sold during the whole of October and ten kronor for every bra sold on Pink Saturday held on 27 October.

This year, Lindex also launched a unique collection, the Pink Collection, of which 10 percent of each item's retail price was donated to the Swedish Cancer Society's Pink Ribbon campaign.

"Our Pink Collection was very well received by our customers. It's great that we were able to add to our sales of pink ribbons with this collection and collect even more money for Pink Ribbon," says Sara Carlsson, acting Director of Corporate Communications at Lindex.

Lindex is also one of the main sponsors behind the Cancer Society's Pink Ribbon campaign. This year, all Lindex stores in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania were involved in raising money, collecting altogether 6 million kronor. The largest amount of 3.8 million kronor was raised in Sweden.

"Our vision is to find a cure for cancer and our goal is for 90 percent of all women diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 to survive the disease.

Thanks to Lindex and its customers who got involved and raised money, we are closer to our goal. You all played an important part in the campaign and helped us achieve our results," says Ursula Tengelin, Secretary of General of the Cancer Society's Pink Ribbon campaign.

The money raised will go to breast cancer research. Part of the money will also go to BRO, the national organisation of breast cancer associations, which offers support to women with breast cancer and their families.

Lindex AB

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

UAE : Gyokuji Gemware Real Dubai Collection by Kyocera

Gyokuji Gemware, the luxurious brand of decorative items created by Kyocera, unveils the Real Dubai Collection, a scintillating array of flower vases, jewellery boxes and candy boxes that interprets the City of Gold through the harmonious blending of traditional Japanese design motifs and 21st Century technology.

“Real Dubai resonates the vibrance of the city that has seen phenomenal growth in recent years. The launch of this collection marks our first foray into customizing pieces for the Middle East market. Through these exquisite creations, we showcase the best of Japanese creativity using cutting edge technologies.

These are meant to be collected and passed on to future generations as each item is the outcome of long and meticulous work.” commented Mr. Takafumi Matsuda, General Manager of Jewellery and Applied Products Division, Kyocera.

The collection gains even greater affinity with Dubai as it introduces the masterly and intricate technique of ‘zougan,’ also known in the West as ‘damascening’ – the art of inlaying with gold or silver.

The technique produces memorable gold and silver designs that are expected to appeal to connoisseurs of the most discriminating taste.

The design themes of Real Dubai focus on the four fundamental elements of fire, water, gold and earth. One of the more popular designs is “Ichimatsu” - a famous Kimono design consisting of dark and light squares or rectangles in a checked pattern.

Named after a famous 18th century kabuki actor Sanokawa Ichimatsu, the Ichimatsu pattern has become an internationally recognized design and has even been adopted by international fashion houses; most notably Louis Vuitton, who based his famous Damier Canvas and Monogram Canvas series on the Ichimatsu. In Real Dubai, the Ichimatsu pattern represents the human element of life, achievement and creation.

The “Wave Pattern” on the other hand connotes the life-giving property of water. In this design theme, a series of gentle, soothing ripples spreads out from the centre which is crowned by a beautiful star sapphire. The design is reminiscent of a spring or a well in the desert; a source of healing and nourishment, but also of knowledge and wisdom to those in its vicinity.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Charles Nolan to describe his creative process at Designers Forum

Fashion Center BID presents a Designers Forum with fashion designer Charles Nolan. Nolan will describe his creative process, and offer insight to his classic character, signature style, and attention to detail, as part of the ongoing Art + Design series.

- Light refreshments will be served
- Thursday, December 13(6:30 pm)

- The Fashion Center
- 209 West 38th St, 2nd floor(Manhattan)

A native New Yorker and FIT graduate, Charles Nolan is one of America's top fashion designers. He perfected his talents working at the fashion houses of Bill Blass, Christian Dior, Ellen Tracy and Anne Klein.

He was elected to membership in the Council of Fashion Designers. The inaugural Charles Nolan collection opened with six windows at Saks Fifth Avenue in September, 2004.

His own shop, which he designed in every detail (even the furniture, which is for sale), is located in Manhattan s trendy meatpacking district.

Fashion Center New York City

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Australia : Mr Geatches congratulates Nuance on new F1RST store

The Nuance Group yesterday officially opened the doors of its new duty free retail stores at Perth Airport. The new look and name, F1RST Tax and Duty Free, replaces the Downtown Duty Free branding and coincides with major improvements to the store layout and product range. Nuance’s City Centre store at 709 Hay Street has also been rebranded to F1RST.

The new expanded departures store brings all tax and duty free products together in a single, cohesive store that has been designed to be easy to navigate and shop. The striking green and white store colours make for a vibrant and crisp environment with the broadened product range easy to see.

New store areas include the latest in technology products from cameras to ipods and gaming consoles, an extensive range of liquor, wine, fragrance and cosmetics and a prestige watch area featuring Cartier, Tag Heuer and Longines.

At today’s opening, airport CEO Brad Geatches said the new F1RST Tax and Duty Free store would offer the best in tax and duty free shopping to all international travellers at Perth Airport as passenger numbers continue to increase.

“I congratulate Nuance on the new F1RST store and brand. Duty and tax free shopping is one key experience associated with travel. The new F1RST store will provide a much improved facility to make this experience more enjoyable for WA travellers and all our international visitors,” said Mr Geatches.

Jann Fisch, CEO, The Nuance Group, Australia and New Zealand added, “We will offer F1RST rate value with F1RST class service. This new store is comparable with the best in the world and is fitting for the fastest growing Australian international airport in the nation’s most dynamic state”.

The Nuance Group

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Ross Park Mall to be a new destination for Tiffany

Tiffany & Co announced plans to open an approximately 5,700-square-foot store in Ross Park Mall, an upscale shopping center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in October 2008.

The center's owner, Simon Property Group Inc is currently expanding the center with an additional 65,000 square feet of luxury retailing and restaurants.

"Ross Park Mall is a premier destination for shopping and we have a prime location within what will be an expanded center with a spacious environment," said Beth O. Canavan, executive vice president of Tiffany & Co.

"We look forward to serving our customers with convenient access to Tiffany's renowned product quality and craftsmanship."

"Tiffany is a fabulous addition to Ross Park Mall," said Scott Richardson, senior development director at Simon. "We are pleased that their first store in Pittsburgh is at Ross Park Mall."

Tiffany & Co operates jewelry and specialty retail stores and manufactures products through its subsidiary corporations. Its principal subsidiary is Tiffany and Company.

Tiffany & Co

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Business-to-business beauty event in Nevada, July’08

Cosmoprof North America announces the inaugural participation of the Australian Trade Commission (Austrade) in the 2008 show.

The premier business-to-business beauty event encompassing all sectors of the industry in one venue will take place once again July 13 - 15, 2008 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Though Australian companies have previously exhibited at Cosmoprof North America, 2008 marks the first year an official delegation from Austrade will be a part of the show.

The decision to participate is in part due to the demand of Australian beauty brands in the United States market as evidenced by the tremendous success of Aesop, an Australian organic skincare brand.

"Our customers love Aesop and we have carried the brand for many years. The unique packaging and quality of the products truly makes it stand out. It was botanical and green long before it became trendy!"

- Bettina O'Neill, VP DMM Cosmetics, Barney's New York:
Austrade's mission is to contribute to community wealth by helping more Australians succeed in export and international business.

This is achieved by providing advice, market intelligence and support to Australian companies helping reduce the time, cost and risk involved in selecting, entering and developing international markets. In addition Austrade provides advice and guidance on overseas investment and joint venture opportunities.

"The Australian Beauty/ Cosmetics industry has an array of products which offer quality, strong branding, and consumer appeal.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Cosmetic brand Maybelline signs Jessica White

Maybelline New York announces that Jessica White, the stunning and elegant supermodel, has become Maybelline New York's newest spokesperson.

She joins Maybelline New York's prestigious roster including Christy Turlington, Erin Wasson, Adriana Lima, Tomiko Fraser, Julia Stegner, and Zhang Ziyi.

At 16, Jessica was discovered in her hometown of Buffalo, NY and made the brave move to Paris. Within six months, she landed campaigns for Chloe and the Gap.

Soon, Jessica was walking the runways for New York's top designers including Ralph Lauren, Oscar de la Renta, Marc Jacobs, and Tommy Hilfiger. She also landed in the pages of Harper's Bazaar and Teen Vogue.

Jessica's big break to supermodel status came in 2003 when she was chosen for Sports Illustrated's famed Swimsuit issue. Jessica went on to model in the next four successive issues.

This was a first in history for an African American woman. Jessica quickly made headlines and was deemed the new Iman by the international press.

In 2006, her supermodel title was solidified when she appeared on the catwalk of the famed Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. At 23, Jessica is poised to be an absolute star in the industry.

Jessica represents the essence of the Maybelline woman: she is sophisticated, worldly-wise, and involved. In her spare time Jessica works on a charitable foundation she founded called "Angel Wings" which provides under privileged children in her hometown of Buffalo an opportunity to have new experiences and follow their dreams just as she has.

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Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Metro Tote features removable laptop ‘bag-within-a-bag’ concept

Acme Made has recently introduced its new line of designer bags and laptop cases for the holidays. The highlights of the line include the "Metro Tote," their new Telun vulcanized canvas, and their sustainable textile, EcoStripe.

The Metro Tote is one of the most innovative business/laptop bags available. Developed in Italy, the Metro Tote features a removable laptop "bag-within-a-bag" concept.

"With a couple quick snaps the inner bag can be removed and carried separately when you just want to take your laptop to a meeting or coffee shop," explains Acme Made partner, Kirk Thornby.

"Or, snap the sleeve out and use the Metro as a spacious weekend tote the whole idea is to design a lot of versatility into a stylish, everyday bag for both work and weekends."

The Courier is the company's new shoulder bag for men and women. The clean and modest styling offers a lot of functionality "under the hood," a plethora of pockets, and a cool zippered center pocket dividing and organizing the large main compartment.

The Vert Tote is Acme Made's answer to a more classic, all-around tote bag. It's a functional, unisex design with a portrait-style or "vertical" orientation allowing it to carry a lot more within a relatively small footprint. The Vert Tote features short leather handles and a removable shoulder strap.

Textiles are also a big part of the new line. Their "Telun" textile is an Italian-made "vulcanized canvas" that is matte black rubber that has been adhered to a natural canvas backing which gives the Acme Made bags a very unique appearance while the rubber coating creates additional stain and water protection.

The new "Eco Stripe" adds sustainability to the company's textile mix. Woven from 100% post industrial and post consumer polyester, the Eco Stripe is a just the first of many sustainable textiles Acme Made plans to incorporate in the near future.

Acme Made

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Vanessa and Angela to introduce Pastry brand collection

Following their family's successful example, the unstoppable Vanessa and Angela Simmons of MTV's "Run's House" are quickly building the next household name with their popular Pastry Footwear brand.

Like their Uncle Russell Simmons with his Phat Fashion brands and their father Joseph "Rev. Run" Simmons with his Run Athletics brand, Vanessa and Angela are branching out to introduce apparel and handbag collections for Spring 2008 under the Pastry brand.

The girls launched Pastry with footwear in March 2007 with the "Cake" collection and followed up with the "Fab Cookie" collection in August.

The "Fab Cookie" launch proved to be a huge success and the shoe is now being offered in a "hi-top" version. Pastry continues to win fashionable young ladies over with their fun, colorfully designed footwear.

Recognizing that fashion doesn't stop at the feet, the enterprising sisters began to cook up tasty recipes for apparel and handbags with the same idea in mind: "for girls, by girls." The new, anticipated Pastry collections are designed by the tastemakers themselves!

The Simmons sisters are working with the Innovative Fashion Group (IFG) and The Betesh Group to expand the Pastry brand. The Innovative Fashion Group, a division of Adjmi Apparel Group, has partnered with Vanessa and Angela to bake up a delicious Pastry apparel collection.

Pastry's newest delights are fresh out of the oven, featuring embroideries, sugar glitters and foils, delicious denim, delectable dresses, tracksuits and plenty of tops to layer as icing.

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Source at Fibre2fashion.com

China : HRH Joachim orders wedding dress from NE.TIGER Hua Fu

NE.TIGER announced that on December 8, 2007, a majestic royal banquet was held in Shanghai at the renowned "1933." In the Basilica style of ancient Rome, the first luxury brand in China, NE.TIGER, and Kopenhagen Fur Company joined together to celebrate the Prince of Denmark, HRH Joachim Holger Waldemar Christian.

Royal Banquet:
The luxury of this royal banquet was incredibly detailed; all the banquet tablewares, used by the royal family of Denmark since 1775, were shipped by air to Shanghai from the royal court of Denmark.

Beside members of the royal family of Denmark, over one hundred ambassadors, celebrities and 25 top VIP customers of NE.TIGER in gala dress attended the banquet to share this beautiful night with the prince HRH Joachim.

That night, China's first luxury brand NE.TIGER presented an amazing fashion banquet of NE.TIGER's HUA FU collection for the prince HRH Joachim.

NE.TIGER's HUA FU collection combines the top fur provided by the Purple Club from Kopenhagen Fur, with the ancient Chinese imperial tribute Yun Brocade, and Chinese traditional four famous embroideries, gathering the ancient and the contemporary, linking the East and the West. All these deeply impressed the prince HRH Joachim and other guests.

Click here to view more:

NE.TIGER

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

UAE : Real men in love with 'CR24H' speed

Damas, the leading international watch and jewellery retailer in the Middle East, now present a limited edition of Quinting ‘CR24H’ chronographs and the first three watches of this series are dedicated to drivers of the First Swiss National Endurance Race team.

The innovative and adventurous spirit drove Pascal Berclaz, President of Quinting, who built its reputation on luxury haute couture watches of exceptional technical merit to team up with the first national team that represented Switzerland at the world`s most famous sports car endurance race.

The sense of life of these ‘real men’, in love with speed and sensitive to mechanical beauty, was the challenge. They knew that everything had been done but remained convinced that there was still a lot to do.

Pascal Berclaz` challenge was the first completely transparent watch in the world and drivers of the Swiss national team could bring Switzerland to the most prestigious endurance race in the world.

Tawhid Abdullah, Managing Director of Damas, revealed: “The new collection of Quinting watch with their unique transparent movement made of sapphire is a machine just like a racing car, because it applies some of its principles.

One of the engineers who developed this unique timepiece came from the automotive sector and his knowledge brought new ideas to traditional watchmaking. Like racing cars that take control of power and speed, the new series takes control of transparency and precision in the same manner.”

CR24H’chronographs (Car Race 24Hours) Limited Edition:
Endurance racing is a test of the durability and reliability of the equipment used to race. The Quinting chronograph which is a true technical feat embodies these two defining characteristics.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Ms. McSweeney as dELiA*s Director of Trend and Color

dELiA*s Inc, a direct marketing and retail company comprised of three lifestyle brands primarily targeting consumers between the ages of 12 and 19 announced that Oona McSweeney joined the Company as Director of Trend and Color for the dELiA*s brand.

Ms. McSweeney is reporting to Robert Bernard, Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for collaborating to create a clear trend vision that inspires our merchant and visual teams, as well as our external partners.

Before joining dELiA*s, Ms. McSweeney served as Director of Trend and Color for the Limited Too division of Tween Brands Inc. Prior to Limited Too, Ms. McSweeney was Design Manager for Women's Apparel and Accessories at Avon Products and for three years was the Ready-to-Wear Director in Federated Merchandising Group's Women's Fashion Office. Ms. McSweeney also has six years of experience in fashion forecasting and trend research.

Rob Bernard, Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are very pleased that a professional with Oona's talent and experience is joining our organization. Oona's abilities in fashion and design will provide the brand continuity and consistency we need to take dELiA*s Retail, Catalog and Web operations to the next level."

In addition, as we have previously indicated, our Stores function has been reporting to Walter Killough, our Chief Operating Officer, since October 2007. Directly reporting to Walter in Store Operations are:

Terry Pizzarello, our National Sales Manager. Terry joined us earlier this year and leads our field organization. Terry has over 20 years of experience which included Vice President - Store Operations at Victoria Secret's Beauty and additional stores experience as Vice President of Stores for Eastern Mountain Sports and at Disney Stores and GAP.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

India : IBREL buys out Ashok Piramal stake in Piramyd

Piramyd Retail Ltd has informed that a Share Purchase Agreement dated December 08, 2007 has been entered between Indiabulls Wholesale Services Ltd (IWSL) a wholly owned subsidiary of Indiabulls Real Estate Ltd (IBREL) and the Promoters of Piramyd Retail Ltd ("the Company"), for acquiring 63.92% of the equity share capital of the Company from the existing Promoters of the Company.

Based on the above and on behalf of IWSL a Public Announcement dated December 09, 2007 was made by Edelweiss Capital Ltd, Manager to the Offer to make an open offer under the Securities & Exchange Board of India (Substantial Acquisition of Shares & Takeovers) Regulations, 1997 to the public shareholders of the Company for acquisition of 20% of the fully diluted voting capital of the Company at an offer price of Rs 74.73 per share.

An intimation to this effect was received by the Company from Edelweiss Capital Ltd on December 10, 2007.

Piramyd Retail Ltd

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Nautilus sets the record straight

Global fitness company Nautilus Inc announced that it has mailed the following letter to its shareholders:
December 11, 2007.

Dear Fellow Shareholder:
The Special Meeting of Shareholders is just days away. We need your support for your Board's nominees, who are committed to building value for all Nautilus shareholders.

There is still time for you to vote AGAINST the removal of your directors. To ensure that your vote is represented at the meeting, we urge you to vote by Internet or telephone by following the simple instructions on the enclosed WHITE proxy card.

Proxy Firms Unanimously Opposed to Control:
Recently, yet another proxy advisory firm, Egan-Jones Proxy Services also advised their clients to reject Sherborne's proposals.

All four leading advisory firms, whose clients include institutional investors, mutual funds, pension funds and others, have concluded: Sherborne's bid for control of Nautilus removing four of your directors and replacing them with four Sherborne nominees is NOT in the best interest of all shareholders.

Nautilus Sets the Record Straight:
We would like to set the record straight with respect to some false and misleading statements made by Sherborne in a recent letter you may have received.

We believe that Sherborne's letter was simply a desperate reaction to the conclusions reached last week by three of the leading independent voting advisory services who recommended against Sherborne's bid for control of Nautilus.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Apparel student Mariah Clarke wins Intl design award

Mariah Clarke of Greenwood, Va, a senior majoring in apparel, housing, and resource management in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences at Virginia Tech, is the recipient of the International Textile and Apparel Association's (ITAA) Paris American Academy 2007 Scholarship.

Clarke, who is focusing her studies in the apparel design program, received the prestigious award for her gown design, “Victorian Rose.”

Clarke’s “Victorian Rose” design was inspired by the late Victorian Bustle period. Her goal was to recreate the elegance and essence of this period, but in a modern silhouette.

After the essence of the design was envisioned, the construction process began which included draping construction techniques, extensive hand sewing, and couture tailoring. The finished gown consists of more than fifty yards of material.

Jihyun Kim, assistant professor of apparel, housing, and resource management and Clarke’s advisor said, “Mariah’s design is absolutely a one-of-a-kind gown and she did a stunning job obtaining design inspiration from historic costumes of the Victorian Era.

Her construction skills and techniques leave no room for error and academic professionals and industry members at the conference highly commended her visual design and the quality of the construction process.”

The Paris American Academy Scholarship is a top design award offered by ITAA to an undergraduate student for excellence in design creativity and innovation. The 2007 Design Competition is an important segment of the ITAA Annual Conference, which took place in Los Angeles in November.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Wolverine creates revolutionary Contour Welt work boot

Wolverine debuts Contour Welt, a revolutionary construction and design that will set new standards in comfort and flexibility for work footwear. The Wolverine Contour Welt combines unparalleled flexibility, comfort, and support with a never-before-seen design that is both eye-catching and functional.

“Our objective in designing the Wolverine Contour Welt was to use state of the art materials and construction techniques that would perform in the toughest conditions without sacrificing comfort,” said Mark Morgan, senior designer.

Designed to deliver flexibility in the forefoot and support in the instep areas, the Wolverine Contour Welt offers the flexibility of a sport shoe with the support of a traditional work boot.

The boot’s supple, full-grain leather molds to the foot while the contour-stitched arch allows the boot to bend and flex at essential points, preventing shifting during motion. A comfort gel insole cushions each step, helping to increase stability and balance.

The boot’s new design incorporates the successful Wolverine MultiShox Rubber Lug outsole, an enhanced outsole that allows individual compression pads in the heel and forefoot to absorb shock and return energy in each step, providing all-day comfort.

Slip, oil and abrasion-resistant, the Wolverine Contour Welt series comes in six-inch, eight-inch and Wellington styles and with or without a steel-toe and is backed by a 30-day comfort guarantee.

“We are relentless in our pursuit of innovating work and outdoor footwear technology,” said Tim Bushell, vice president and general manager. “This pre-occupation with creating a superiorly durable and comfortable selection of footwear allows us to outfit our consumer for life.”

Wolverine World Wide Inc

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Holiday 2007 collection for petites by Petite Sophisticate

Petite Sophisticate, the nation's only retailer specializing solely in petite fashions, is proud to announce the debut of its holiday 2007 collection featuring metallics, Lurex, lace, velvets, and knits designed specifically to fit women 5'4" and under, in sizes 0p-14p.

For the first time, Petite Sophisticate now offers its complete collection available for purchase just in time for the holidays!

With an array of winter dresses this season, including structured sheath dresses, knitted jumpers, and holiday dresses with metallic jacquards, lace, velvets, and hammered satins, Petite Sophisticate offers professional, affordable, and fashionable clothing which is designed exclusively for women under 5'4".

"The petite customer has special fit needs. We don't simply shorten hemlines and sleeves. We raise the arm holes and adjust pocket placement and change the rise for height proportion.

We also scale down design features such as collars, buttons, pockets and prints so that they flatter a petite body," said Diane Paccione, President of Petite Sophisticate, adding that while other brands MAY carry petite sizes, at Petite Sophisticate the petite woman is the ONLY customer served.

The winter collection includes novelty prints in tops, jackets and trenches, charmeuse blouses, knit dressings, embroidered sweaters, special occasion dresses, and a complete career wardrobe that does not require a trip to the tailor.

For the casual customer, the selection includes fit-conscious casual looks in various denim styles, as well as fitted tees and knit sweaters.

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Germany : First global design competition for lingerie

Fashion and design students in more than 25 countries - from Finland to South Africa and from Japan to Israel - are competing in the first "Triumph Inspiration Award" (TIA), a global design competition created by lingerie specialist Triumph International.

The Award challenges students from prestigious international design schools to create a conceptual showpiece set, comprising an underwired bra and brief, dedicated to a special design motto. In its inaugural year, the design motto focuses on "Female Fascination".

The winner of each national competition will automatically qualify for the international final, where he or she will have the opportunity to present their piece to an internationally renowned jury.

The international winner, who will be chosen in the summer of 2008 by distinguished experts from the fields of design, fashion and media, will be offered a unique opportunity: in addition to pocketing a cash prize of Euro 15,000 he or she will see their showpiece adapted and interpreted by the Triumph design team, leading to series production of the set.

The finished product, including special hangtags, will be produced and sold as a special limited edition in selected Triumph stores worldwide. It will also be part of a specially decorated shop window celebrating the Award.

The lucky young creative will have the chance to be internationally recognized as an-up-and-coming talent - a rare opportunity for young designers at the beginning of their careers. The second and third place winners will receive Euro 10,000 and Euro 5,000 respectively.

Eligible to qualify for the Award are students of cooperating schools who are in at least the second year of their professional training.

The national finals, taking place in the spring or summer of 2008 in all participating countries, will determine one national winner who will then be sent to the international final in Beijing, China.

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Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Denim designer expands exclusive Shirts & Hoodies line

Sheiki Jeans, the premium denim company for smart and sexy women announced the creation of Sheiki Shirts, a unique and trendy line of tops designed to compliment the fashion-forward Sheiki Jean.

The tops, influenced by 20s and 40s pinup girls as well as the Bettie Page era, are available in tank top, v-neck, scoop and long-sleeved zip up hoodie.

The exceptional quality of Sheiki Shirts is evident in every detail, from the soft burned-out fabric to the distinctive dye work. All drawings are complete originals, created by hand and delicately silkscreened onto the premium fabric.

The attention to detail extends to the unique chain stitch of the embroidery and the Swarovski crystal embellishments, each done by hand. As with the entire Sheiki Jeans clothing line, Sheiki Shirts are created for optimal feel and flattering fit.

"The shirts are sexy, soft and cling in all the right places, just like the entire Sheiki Jean line," said designer Sheila Marie.

"Women who like to stay on the cutting-edge of fashion will appreciate the craftsmanship and detail that has gone into each design. It's unlike anything else in the industry."

Sheiki Jeans

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Tiffany to discontinue certain existing watch collections

Tiffany & Co announced that it has filed a Report on Form 8-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that supplements the joint press release made on Sunday, December 2, 2007 with The Swatch Group Ltd and the earnings press release made by Tiffany on Friday, November 30, 2007.

The Report on Form 8-K filed states that as a consequence of the strategic alliance with Swatch Group, Tiffany management has concluded that Tiffany will discontinue certain existing watch collections.

As a result, Tiffany expects to record, in its fourth quarter ending January 31, 2008, a pre-tax expense of approximately $20 million associated with its inventory of the watches to be discontinued.

This expense was not included in the financial expectations for fiscal 2007 that Tiffany reported in its November 30, 2007 press release announcing its unaudited financial results for its third quarter ended October 31, 2007.

Tiffany & Co

USA : Roberto Cavalli designed costume for Spice Girls

Roberto Cavalli created the costumes for the much-awaited worldwide tour "The return of the Spice Girls" which marks the comeback of the world famous Spice Girls.

The designer has interpreted with his unmistakable signature each Spice Girls defining individuality, highlighting the glamorous, strong image that has always characterized the band.

Emma Bunton, Geri Halliwell, Melanie B, Melanie C and Victoria Beckham wore creations that include rigorous white and black tuxedos, silver space-age uniforms, shiny minidresses embroidered with Swarovsky crystals and feathers, sensual leather corsets and brightly colored jumpsuits.

Roberto Cavalli says "I have known Victoria Beckham for a long time, and have always admired her style and personality. When we talked about the worldwide tour "The Return of the Spice Girls", she put forward the idea of me creating all their costumes to which I immediately agreed.

At their debut, the Spice Girls generated a trend with their individual looks and now, 10 years later, they have put their trust in me to get a new, unique and iconic appeal for the tour.

The Spice Girls are one of the biggest global success stories with their appeal crossing many generations and millions of fans awaiting their return.

When I met them, I immediately understood the reason why the world went crazy for their unique brand of 'girl power' as they are an irresistible mix of energy, pure joy, humor and a spicy dashof glamour. I'm sure their strength will take us by storm again".

Roberto Cavalli

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

USA : Limited Brands November sales report on Dec 6

In conjunction with Limited Brands' November sales release, you are invited to listen to a broadcast of its sales call with Amie Preston, Vice President of Investor Relations for Limited Brands. The broadcast will be available on the Internet on Thursday, December 6, at 7:30 a.m. ET.

What: Limited Brands November Sales Report
When: December 6, 2007 at 7:30 a.m. ET
Where: Limited Brands website
How: Simply log on to the Web at the company's website or dial 1-800-337-6551 followed by conference call passcode LTD (or 583).

Limited Brands, through Victoria's Secret, PINK, Bath & Body Works, C.O. Bigelow, La Senza, White Barn Candle Co. and Henri Bendel, presently operates 2,921 specialty stores.

Limited Brands

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

Switzerland : Springboost hires new US sales force

SpringBoost is dramatically boosting its U.S. sales capability to open new doors and better service retailers already carrying the line. New to the team are 12 new sales reps who will report to Kim Walsh, recently promoted from Regional Manager to the newly created position of manager of U.S. Sales.

She reports to Donald W. Johnson, newly appointed vice president of sales. Springboost CEO Andrew Silvestri formally announced the new sales team positions and appointments.

The SpringBoost sales team has more than doubled with the new hiring of a dozen new sales reps to expand coverage in the U.S. The hiring of these footwear industry veterans represents the first in a series of events that will greatly increase the visibility of DORSI Technology in the U.S. marketplace.

“We are very pleased to welcome these industry veterans, who switched companies, to join the fastest growing footwear company in the U.S.,” said Johnson.

“They bring backgrounds of championing technology-based, premium footwear product in their respective territories, and we are very pleased to be able to offer their sales and technical expertise to our current and prospective customers.”

SpringBoost S.A.

Brazil : Southern Brazil Lingerie Fair to be a part of National Winter Fair

With the entire area reserved for exhibiters completely sold out two months before opening its 4th edition, the 2008 Southern Brazil Lingerie Fair held January 22-25 in the city of Gramado, Rio Grande do Sul, celebrates the participation of internationally renowned brands for the first time at the fair held in the south of the country.

As has become traditional, the Fair will be part of Fenin – National Winter Fair, one of the main commercial fairs for clothing in the country.

Among the companies already confirmed, those that stand out are Jogê, Darling, Nu.Luxe, Val France, Del Rio, Marcyn, Liebe, Beautiful Woman, Lupo, TKTS, Daniela Tombine and Arp, which will join an average of another 30 qualified companies that comprise the winter edition of the Brazil Lingerie Fair.

The confirmed exhibiters include: Bordados Jussara, D´Marju, Relíquias (De&Me), UpMan, Ninon, Fits Well, Mash, Liz, Portatti, Alfitex, Dois Rios, Meias Griffos, Belles, Monthal, Darling, SanVil, Beautifull Woman, Kanto Íntimo, Liebe, Vairelli, Brender, Recco, Cocamar, Arp, Diáfana, ArtRenda, Hope, Plié, Valfrance, Schumuck, Lupo, DelRio, TKTS, Jogê, Lua Luá, Love Secret, Smile, star Woman, Garbo, Marcyn, Elegance, Nanalua and Daniela Tombine.

Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association

Source at Fibre2fashion.com

UK : Marchpole opens first luxury fashion JCC store in Feb

Marchpole Holdings plc, the fast growing fashion brand management group is pleased to announce that it has signed the leasehold on its first UK flagship store for its wholly owned subsidiary, Jean Charles de Castelbajac (JCC).

The store, which will be opened in February 2008 is at 50-51 Conduit Street in the heart of the luxury fashion shopping district of London's West End. The store, which will have approximately 2,500 square foot of retail space, will feature collections from the entire JCC fashion and lifestyle portfolio.

Marchpole Holdings Executive Deputy Chairman Michael Morris, commented: “We are delighted to have secured such a prime location for our first UK flagship store. This area of the West End is synonymous with luxury brands and is absolutely the right place for our JCC shop to be located.”

“Since the acquisition of the Castelbajac brand by Marchpole in 2004, both sales and licensing income have shown very encouraging growth and in the last twelve months, on a like-for-like basis sales of JCC have increased by 5 per cent and royalty income has increased by 50 per cent on the back of the new licensing agreements put in place. We look forward to a successful launch of this first UK standalone store in February 2008.”

The store will be designed by Christian Ghion, who also designed the celebrated Castelbajac Paris flagship. Ghion is a designer, set designer and interior designer His work can be seen in Paris at the V.I.A, Cartier foundation, Museum of Decorative Arts, and Georges Pompidou Museum, as well as in the permanent collections of major Japanese and American museums.

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Latest Interview of Mr David Wei - CEO, Alibaba.com (Alibaba Group) at Fibre2fashion.com

Headquartered in Hangzhou in eastern China, the Alibaba Group is one of the world's premier e-commerce brands. The Group witnessed its modest beginnings as the first online marketplace was launched as "Alibaba Online" in December 1998. Originally, the website operated as a bulletin board service for businesses to post buy and sell trade leads. In June 1999, the lead founder and chairman, Mr Jack Ma, and 18 other founders formed the parent company, Alibaba Group, and in September 1999, major operating subsidiary in China, Alibaba China, was established to carry on the business of operating business-to-business marketplaces.

Mr David Wei is the Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba.com. He joined Alibaba Group in November 2006 as the president of the B2B business division and as an executive vice-president of Alibaba Group.

Mr Wei was the president, from 2002 to 2006, and Chief Financial Officer, from 2000 to 2002, of B&Q China, a subsidiary of Kingfisher Plc, a leading home improvement retailer in Europe and Asia. Under his leadership, B&Q China grew to become China's largest home improvement retailer. From 2003 to 2006, he was also the Chief Representative for Kingfisher's China sourcing office, Kingfisher Asia Ltd.

In Interview with Face2Face team, Mr David Wei shares his views elucidating potential of B2B vis-à-vis B2C segment.

Read Full Interview Click Here

Source at Fibre2fashion