Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: Black Friday Deals

(

Gap Outlet will take up to 60 percent off all merchandise and have $10 zip fleeces for its first customers. The Banana Republic Factory Store is offering 40 percent off all items and $10 men’s and women’s track jackets. Gap Outlet and Banana Republic Factory Store are both at the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets, 508-384-0870 and 508-384-5320, respectively. (These stores kick off their Black Friday sales at midnight tonight.) Gap Outlet is also at the Arsenal Mall, Watertown, 617-926-4032. (This location opens at 5 a.m.) www.gap.com

Filene’s Basement hosts its annual Black Friday scratch-card promotion between opening time (5 or 6 a.m., depending on the store) and noon. Take a card upon entering, and once you check out, find out what you saved. Discounts range from 10 to 50 percent, or, if you’re very lucky, your entire purchase will be free. Find locations at www.filenesbasement.com.

Kenneth Cole stores are taking 41 percent off prices for the first four hours they’re open tomorrow. For the rest of the weekend, items will be 31 percent off. Store hours vary by location. Kenneth Cole is at Copley Place, 617-867-9580, and 128 Newbury St. (men’s only), 617-867-0836. www.kennethcole.com.

Brooks Brothers will offer 15 percent off purchases until noon tomorrow and Saturday. (Shoppers using a MasterCard or Brooks Brothers Platinum MasterCard will get an additional 5 percent off.) Brooks Brothers Factory Stores are taking 40 percent off all items until Sunday, and an extra 10 percent off tomorrow and Saturday until noon. Find locations at www.brooksbrothers.com.

Kohl’s opens at 4 a.m. with early-bird specials on clothes, jewelry, kitchen items, board games, and more until 1 p.m. All Fisher-Price, Playskool, Barbie, Littlest Pet Shop, Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Tonka, Little Tikes, Crayola, and Play-Doh toys will be 50 percent off; select games, including Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders, will be $3.99 each (normally $9.99). Find Kohl’s locations at www.kohls.com.

Staff at Luna Boston will hand out $100 gift certificates good toward purchases of $200 or more. Show up between 9 and 11 a.m. and get two gift certificates, or $200 toward a purchase of $400 or more. The store carries handbags, shoes, and other accessories by Diane von Furstenberg, Rebecca Minkoff, and others. Certificates valid tomorrow only. Luna Boston, 205 Newbury St., 617-262-3900. www.lunaboston.com.

JCPenney stores will have “doorbuster’’ specials from 4 a.m. (when they open) until noon. Deals include a Wii/Xbox gaming tower for $48.88 and a Lionel Santa Fe battery-powered train set for $99.88 (normally $199.99). Good deals on clothes, shoes and boots, kitchenware, and more. See details and store locations at www.jcp.com.

Home Depot’s Black Friday deals include good buys on washers and dryers, such as an LG washer and electric dryer pair, normally $1,198, for $798; a Ridgid cq wet/dry vacuum for $19.88 (worth $99); and a buy-30, get-30 deal on Rayovac AA batteries (60 total for $9.99). Find Home Depot locations at www.homedepot.com.

Lowe’s has deals on tools, kitchen and Christmas items, and more (in-store and online) tomorrow until Monday. The Saugus store will have a Skil 4-piece, 18-volt cordless combo tool kit for $59 (originally $129), a 12-cup programmable coffeemaker for $49.84 (originally $99.84), and a 400-light Christmas tree for $38 (was $98). Find locations at www.lowes.com.

We’re told Best Buy has already lowered prices on some of its televisions: 32-inch Dynex LCD HDTVs are now $299.99, 40-inch Dynex 1080p are $499.99, 32-inch Samsung 720p LCD HDTVs are $397.99, and 50-inch Samsung plasma 720p HDTVs are $697.99. www.bestbuy.com.

Cowboy boots and vintage clothing spot Rick Walker’s will offer 50 percent off select items tomorrow. As a bonus, the store will also have live music and complementary hot cider. Rick Walker’s is at 306 Newbury St., Boston, 617-482-7426. www.rickwalkers.com

Olive Green Apparel will be taking 15 percent off its stylish, eco-friendly mittens (normally $65) tomorrow until Dec. 3. The fleece-lined mittens are made from recycled wool sweaters and adorned with buttons on the cuffs. Use the code BlackFriday during checkout. www.olivegreenapparel.com.

Andover boutique First Date is offering 30 percent off all black merchandise and 20 percent off everything else tomorrow. (In-store only.) Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. First Date is at 28 Chestnut St., Andover, 978-247-8999. Get a taste of what the store carries at www.shopfirstdate.com.

AMI ALBERNAZ

Get bargain advice every day online at www.boston.com/bargainbin. E-mail ideas for Bargain Bin to bargainbin@globe.com.



This article is from Bargain Bin

Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: King's Men's Wear is back at 11 S. Market St.

A retail name remembered by many Fredericktonians will be seen again downtown.

King's Men's Wear is back at 11 S. Market St. offering quality men's apparel, shoes, accessories and tuxedo rentals.

Ron Namendorf, who has operated Paolo Vista Menswear at the location since 2004, will be part-owner and will operate the new King's Men's Wear shop.

The return of the name is due to Mark and Donna Gaver of Middletown . Through their company, Gaver Holdings, the couple invested in the retail business.

"King's Men's Wear played an integral part in the Downtown Frederick community for so many years," said Mark Gaver in a prepared statement. "We're going to bring it back to that same level of distinction, with more of the clothing that Frederick men are used to, more of what today's fashion-forward men are looking for."

Mark Gaver is a longtime customer of both King's Men's Wear and Paolo Vista and consulted with Richard Kessler, the store's previous owner, about restoring the business to its original name.

Kessler closed King's Men's Wear when he retired in January 2004. As owner of the building, he leased the space in November of that year to Namendorf, who opened Paolo Vista Menswear.

"I was the third generation of my family to run the business at 11 South Market," Kessler said. His grandmother and father opened the store as Harry's Dependable Shop in 1928. Kessler's father died and his mother remarried, running the business with the help of her second husband, Melvin King. The store was renamed King's Men's Wear in the 1960s.

At that time the store carried not only dress clothing, but sportswear and work clothes. Kessler said King's was the first store in the area to carry Levi jeans.

In a time without shopping malls and the myriad of retailers today, downtown Frederick was crowded Friday and Saturday nights, with customers doing their banking, grocery shopping, clothes shopping and dining out.

For information call 301-620-2070.

This article is from King's Men's Wear name returns to downtown

Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: Cyber Monday 2009

Cyber monday deals 2009: Discounted running gear on-line: Move over Black Friday 2009, you just might be overshadowed by the next big holiday shopping frenzy on-line.

Cyber Monday 2009 is expected to be rival one of the biggest known shopping days, Black Friday which is the day after Thanksgiving.

Cyber Monday, as the word "Cyber" implies allows shoppers to shop for holiday discounts on-line from the comfort of their own home without the 4:00am alarm wake-up call, the waiting lines, bruised elbows, and it is friendlier to the environment.

This article is from http://www.examiner.com

Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. partners with GLOBE International Limited for Splatterhouse Co-op limited series shoe

November 24, 2009 - NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. is pleased to announce an exclusive partnership with GLOBE International Limited to produce an exclusive Splatterhouse Co-op limited series shoe based off GLOBE's premium Superfly model. Designed as a testament to Splatterhouse's gory, intense, and horror movie-like tone, the Splatterhouse Co-op limited series features the Splatterhouse logo splayed across the vulcanized outsole siding in blood red, along with faux splattered blood detail all over and a Skull icon hit - all to tie in the game's iconography in a moody yet playful way. Splatterhouse Co-op limited series is available now at selected online retailers.

Additionally, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today released new screens and art for Splatterhouse, an all new installment of the landmark 1988 arcade hit classic. This new set of assets highlights the gruesome dynamic combat system which enables you to punch, kick, tear, and dismember other-worldly monstrosities barring your way in the most gruesome manner imaginable.

Splatterhouse follows college student Rick Taylor as he tries to rescue his girlfriend, Jennifer, who has disappeared after entering the mysterious and run-down West Mansion. Confronted by horrific creatures, Rick comes across a mystical sentient mask that promises to give him the power to find Jennifer. Full of desperation and rage, Rick puts on the "Terror Mask" and is transformed into a juggernaut of pure violence and destruction. Splatterhouse will be available in Q3 2010 for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION 3 computer entertainment system.

Globe International, a leading creator of Action Sports products and entertainment for youth, was established in 1994. Globe markets footwear, apparel, accessories, skateboards and entertainment features, and is a youthful, attitude driven collaboration between people - including some of the biggest names in skateboarding and surfing - who have gathered together to innovate through a shared passion of Action Sports.

For more information on the Splatterhouse Co-op limited series, please visit: http://www.globe.tv and http://www.clubnamco.com.

For more information on Splatterhouse, please visit http://splatterhousegame.com and www.namcobandaigames.com

Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: Sales Roundup

AMERICAN APPAREL
Nothing is over $50 at this weekend rummage sale, where the clothes are up to 85 per cent off. Nov. 27 to 29. 590 King St. W., americanapparel.net/whatsnew/Index.aspx?p=914.

CROCS
For all secret Croc lovers out there, this is the company’s first warehouse sale. Prices start at $5. Nov. 25 to 29. International Centre, Hall 4, 6900 Airport Rd., styledemocracy.com/?p=442.

FGI SAMPLE SALE
Fashion Group International’s sample sale includes deals on such Canadian clothing and accessories designers as David Dixon, Philip Sparks, Jessica Jensen and Jenny Bird. Nov. 26 and 27. 11–8. Liberty Market Building, 171 East Liberty St., Ste. 118.

FRESH COLLECTIVE
Laura-Jean Bernhardson has been designing the geek-chic line Fresh Baked Goods for 15 years. In celebration of the anniversary, all regular-price items from the label—cute dresses and knit sweaters galore—are 15 to 50 per cent off. 692 Queen St. W., 416-594-1313.

GEORGE C.
The Yorkville boutique’s private sale is on for only a few more days. Head over for up to 40 per cent off designer togs. Until Nov. 26. 21 Hazelton Ave., 416-962-1991, georgec.ca.

GOTSTYLE
Women looking to do some early holiday shopping for the sartorially minded men in their lives should consider attending one of Gotstyle’s four evening Ladies Only events. There’ll be champagne, “hot male models,” gift wrapping and discounts. Nov. 25, 26, Dec. 9 and 10. 6–9. 489 King St. W., 416-260-9696, gsmen.com.

NINE WEST
Take a pair of old shoes or a handbag to Nine West (items will be donated to Goodwill) and receive $20 off any purchase of $100 or more. Until Dec. 13. Eaton Centre, 220 Yonge St., 416-977-8126.

…OF THINGS PAST
The consignment showroom’s pre-holiday sale includes discounts on all vintage, costume and fine jewellery. Nov. 27 to Dec. 6. 185 Bridgeland Ave., 416-256-9256, ofthingspast.com.

PAUL FRANK
Need to find a cute gift for a tween this year? Check out the Paul Frank warehouse sale with big savings on monkey-logoed hoodies, T-shirts and accessories. Nov. 26 to 29. 1500 Birchmount Rd., styledemocracy.com/?p=463.

SYDNEY’S
The high-style menswear shop has marked down some items by 50 per cent, including pieces from Rick Owens, Dries Van Noten and Nom de Guerre. 795 Queen St. W., 416-603-3369, shopsydneys.com.

WAREHOUSE SALE
Get 60 to 90 per cent off Guess, Marciano and G-Star denim, outerwear, accessories and footwear. Nov. 26 to 29. International Centre, Hall 4, 6900 Airport Rd., premiumretailgroup.com.

This article is from http://www.torontolife.com

Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: Saucony ProGrid™ Guide 2 wins "Shoe of the Year"

LEXINGTON, MA (November 24, 2009) – For the second time in three years, Saucony, Inc., a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel, has been recognized with the competitive “Shoe of the Year” award by the Independent Running Retailers Association (IRRA) for the Saucony ProGrid™ Guide 2 – the brand’s flagship light stability trainer. The award was presented to Saucony at The Running Event, an annual running conference and expo that brings together the major players in running – running specialty retailers, vendors, race directors and training groups – recently held in Austin, Texas.

“The entire Saucony team is extremely proud to be recognized by the IRRA,” said Patrick O’Malley, Saucony’s vice president of global product for Saucony. “At Saucony, we’re intently focused on providing runners with the best-in-class innovation, style and performance throughout our entire product line. Our business and passion is to inspire runners. The Guide 2 reflects that, and it’s gratifying to see this recognition honor our passion and focus. We hope that runners everywhere will enjoy the supportive, smooth ride of this great shoe,” said O’Malley.

Designed to slow down mild overpronation, the ProGrid Guide 2 is a light stability shoe featuring a Dual Density Impulse EVA midsole for greater durability and responsiveness under the arch. The ProGrid technology in the heel combines seamlessly with the SRC XTRA forefoot cushioning to ensure an efficient transition and a smooth ride. The ultra-plush Comfortride sockliner is constructed from an exclusive material to offer both wicking and antimicrobial properties, while providing responsive cushioning and additional comfort. (Sizes: men’s 7-13, 14 and 15, and women’s 5-12; MSRP: $95.00)

This is the second time that a Saucony product has been recognized by the IRRA with this award. In 2007, the Saucony ProGrid Omni 6 took the title, based on its reputation as the ‘go-to’ shoe for retailers.

Also at The Running Event, industry veteran Fred Doyle, Saucony’s vice president of field sales, was inducted into the IRRA Running Specialty Hall of Fame. Doyle was selected as a Vendor/Influencer inductee based on the major impact he has had throughout his career in growing the specialty running business as an athlete and business person.

“We are so pleased and proud that the industry has recognized Fred in such a meaningful way,” said Richie Woodworth, president of Saucony.

“The IRRA is an integral part of our running community and is dedicated to the growth and health of our sport,” said Woodworth. “Their standards and expectations are high, and we will continue to strive to exceed them with great products, excellent service and a team dedicated to the specialty running business,” added Woodworth.

About Saucony, Inc.: Saucony, Inc., a subsidiary of Collective Brands, is a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel with its widely recognized brands Saucony and Saucony Originals. For more information, go to www.saucony.com.

About Collective Brands, Inc.: Collective Brands, Inc. (NYSE: PSS) is a leader in bringing compelling lifestyle, fashion and performance brands for footwear and related accessories to consumers worldwide. The company operates three strategic units focused on multiple price points and selling channels. Collective Brands, Inc. includes Payless ShoeSource, focused on democratizing fashion and design in footwear and accessories through its more than 4,500-store retail chain; Collective Brands Performance + Lifestyle Group, focused on lifestyle and athletic branded footwear and high-quality children’s footwear sold primarily through wholesaling, with its brands including Stride Rite®, Keds®, Sperry Top-Sider®, Robeez®, and Saucony®, among others; and Collective Licensing International, the brand development, management and global licensing unit. Information about each of the Collective Brand’s units can be found at
http://www.collectivebrands.com.

This article is from http://running.competitor.com

Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: Billabong buys Swell.com

SURFWEAR and leisure clothing group Billabong has moved to take an online presence in the US, buying swell.com, an internet clothing retailer.

Swell, established in 1999, sells a wide variety of leisure apparel for men and women, as well as shoes and accessories, including Billabong, Volcom, O'Neill, Hurley, Rusty, Quiksilver, Insight, Rip Curl, RVCA, Roxy and Swell, its own brand.

Billabong declined yesterday to reveal the price it paid for Swell, which is California-based, but said it was not material to the group's balance sheet.

And the Gold Coast-based group said its acquisition would initially contribute less than 1 per cent to its revenue.

But the company said its purchase would be "slightly" earnings-per-share-positive in its first full year as part of Billabong - and, with online shopping sites garnering more of the retail dollar, it will be hoping to see Swell grow.

In a statement, Billabong USA president Paul Naude said the acquisition would allow Billabong to manage its brands in the growing online market.

"We look forward to growing the Swell business and further developing it as a showcase online platform for the US boardsports industry," Mr Naude said.

"The internet plays a significant role in the recreational habits of the youth market so it is important for our group to ensure we provide them with a premium brand experience when shopping online."

According to Apparel News, San Clemente-based Swell was founded by partners Nicholas Nathanson - a former e-commerce analyst at investment bank Salomon Smith Barney - and Jeffrey A. Berg, who is a finance and new media executive.

Last month, Billabong reaffirmed its guidance of 5 per cent net profit growth for the 2010 financial year, but has warned that recent strength in the Australian dollar could erode its profits.

The company said it had survived a difficult 2009 financial year in good structural and financial shape and was optimistic for a productive year ahead as stability returned to the apparel market in key regions.

Billabong shares rose 7c to $10.17 yesterday.


This article is from http://www.news.com.au

H&M launched the highly anticipated Jimmy Choo by H&M collection of shoes, apparel and accessories at select stores around the world

On Saturday, Nov. 14, H&M launched the highly anticipated Jimmy Choo by H&M collection of shoes, apparel and accessories at select stores around the world, and Footwear News was on hand to take in the enthusiasm and, in some cases, chaos that surrounded the retailer’s most highly publicized designer collaboration to date.

For his part, Choo CEO Joshua Schulman said the H&M experiment was a terrific success. “We were so delighted with the phenomenal consumer response to the Jimmy Choo for H&M flash collection,” he said. “I heard stories of women camping out in sleeping bags in London, Paris, Tokyo and Hong Kong. The project accomplished exactly what we set out to do: expose our brand to a younger audience for a moment in time and capture the hearts of women around the world. This was a fun exercise, which shows how many people are yearning to be part of the Jimmy Choo world.”

NEW YORK: Around 1 p.m., at the H&M location on the corner of 34th Street and 8th Avenue, more than two-dozen female shoppers, most of them in their 20s and 30s, were lined up outside the sectioned-off shoe area. An H&M staffer said that a line of more than 100 people started forming outside the store at 9 p.m. the night before. He wasn't sure whether the Choo shoes would sell out that day, but said supplies were definitely dwindling and the launch had been as strongly received as H&M's previous designer collaborations. Shoppers had a limit of 10 minutes to peruse the special shoe area and were only allowed to buy one pair of each style.

Hannah, a twentysomething New Yorker, said she came with a friend to check out the scene on Saturday, even though she had already snagged three pairs during a special preview at the Fifth Avenue location the night before. "They're all so cute," she said of the sandals, heels and over-the-knee boots, before snatching up another pair.

Down the street, at the Herald Square H&M, about 75 shoppers were lined up on the second floor, waiting to enter the shoe area. Two sisters, Nina and Tina — both in their twenties — left the store with almost 20 pairs between them, after lining up at 6 a.m. They were pleased with how smoothly the morning went, but were not crazy about the prices. “It’s cheap relative to [Choo’s retail], but still expensive relative to H&M,” said Tina. “But we got a lot of leather, so you know you’re getting some quality.”

Another shopper, Kaylee, boarded a bus from Washington, D.C., at 5:30 a.m., to arrive in the city an hour later. There were close to 400 people in line by the 10 a.m. opening, some who had shown up as early as 10 p.m. the night before. Kaylee, also in her twenties, did her online research two months prior to the launch, to optimize the short, 10-minute shopping limit. When she arrived, she already had a pair of boots and heels in mind. “All the merchandise is really, really nice,” she said. “For most people, it’s the first opportunity to get an affordable [Choo] shoe.” There were just a few pairs left on the floor around 1:30 p.m., and staffers said the stock was expected to sell out soon. "We aren't replenishing. This is it," said one saleswoman.

This article is from http://www.wwd.com

Lifestyle has launched its AW 09 collection

Lifestyle has launched its AW 09 collection which has edgy fashion, chic designs, bold hues and more. There are six exciting ranges of diverse fashion. The brand has also introduced a diverse, eclectic, and trendy array of accessories complimenting the apparel line. The range offers bracelets, ear rings, necklace, hair accessories, rings and baby accessories.

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

Collection Highlights:

Ginger: Calls out to the young, sprightly and flirty women with super cool fashion that says 'I belong'. Hot, seductive and bold, best describe this collection which has specs of modern, retro, floral and artistic graphics in its line of tops, denims, leggings, jackets and footwear.

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

Club Hoppers: Specially designed for urban males. This collection has just the perfect touch of bling which can be worn all through the day and works perfectly for the night as well. Comprises of ties, shirt, trousers, t-shirts, waist coats, belts and shoes.

Fame Forever: This one has a youthful spirit to it and consist of trendy, colourful and funky casual clothes for men and woman. Comprises of t-shirts and Denims.

Forca: The collection is inspired from new technologies, alternate sports and music and a well defined adaptation of the latest in street fashion, comfortable, easy to wear and in touch with their surroundings. The collection comprises of t-shirts, shirts, denims, footwear, belts and fashion accessories.

Melange: This collection comprises of an exclusive line of ethnic wear for women with a modern and contemporary look. The collection entails a combination of hand block printing and exquisite hand embroideries with the use of pure fabrics like silks, chiffons, georgettes etc in vibrant-to-soothing shades.

This article is from http://www.domain-b.com

Unique Uniforms by Sandy Austin

The idea was to start a small, manageable business in Albany. The hope was it would be something that Sandy Austin and her sister Peggy Schaeffer would find fulfilling.

They got what they wanted, opening Unique Uniforms last year.

Austin and husband, Tim, are now sole owners, although Peggy still works at the store three days a week.

“We were retired and wanted something to do beyond normal retirement activities. This is a good fit,” said Austin.

The sisters pooled their resources and found a niche in the specialized clothing store providing uniforms for a variety of professions.

“To my knowledge it’s the only store of its kind in the valley outside of a few chain stores in Salem,” said Austin.

The emphasis is on medical attire, but culinary apparel, coveralls for auto mechanics and other specialized uniforms are available. Still, major sales are to the medical community. Scrubs, lab coats, nurses shoes, even stethoscopes and other accessories are in supply.

“We intentionally geared it to nurses,” said Austin.

The word spread quickly. Despite getting involved just as the economy started to slide, Unique Uniforms has seen steady growth. Even before the doors opened customers were waiting to buy.

“We were bringing in boxes and getting set up and people wanted to order,” smiled Austin. “Each month it gets better. Our product got noticed.”

Austin said the store is stocked with major company brands like Cherokee, Landon and White Swan. There are 13 suppliers in all.

“The nurses know the names,” said Austin.

Unique Uniforms also offers the little extras to bring people through the doors. Custom embroidering on uniforms, name tag engraving and special ordering of uniforms in smaller or larger sizes are all offered.

“It’s not possible to have enough inventory for everyone’s needs,” said Austin.

She said one of the best parts of the business is helping young nurses get started.

“Getting them into the core colors and showing them there are a lot of ways to build a uniform that won’t cost them an arm and a leg is important,” said Austin.

The variety of colors and patterns offer nurses choices Austin says she wouldn’t have imagined 30 years ago.

Making uniforms look good to customers is important with such a wide selection. Every uniform in the store was individually ironed when they opened.

“We had four ironing boards going,” said Austin.

An online presence will be up running at www.uniqueuniforms

online.com within days. Browsers will be able to pick out a uniform, order it from a supplier on the phone, and once it is delivered come in and try it on.

“Sometimes when you order online you find out nothing fits. We want people to find what they want there and still come in for a fitting,” said Austin.

The shop although less than 1,000-square-feet provides just enough room.

“It looked huge when it was empty but now we’re pretty packed. We haven’t been able to stop it from growing,” Austin said. “But we love this location and we love what we do.”

Unique Uniforms, which is located at 3111 Santiam Hwy. S.E., is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. The phone number is (541) 791-1152.

“There has been an overwhelming positive response,” acknowledged Austin. “But the best thing about this business is it makes me feel like I’m really helping the nurses.”


This article is from www.democratherald.com

Kiki's Closet opens at The Atrium

Fashion and comfort are the words that entered my mind upon seeing the items found inside Kiki’s Closet, a newly opened ladies’ apparel, accessories and shoes store at the third level of The Atrium. The store was named after Kiki, the nickname of Nadine, granddaughter of shop owner Suzette Acosta Griebsch. “The apo is as kikay (fashion-conscious) as the lola,” said store manager and Kiki’s mother Atty. Brianna Kay Tenefrancia de los Santos.

“You can find the latest trends on fashion at Kiki’s Closet. Affordable, too,” said Griebsch, who looked really fabulous in white during the opening. She is updated on fashion because of her travels to China and Germany. In fact, she personally shops for the items available at Kiki’s Closet. One will also notice that even the kids’ clothes and shoes are stylish and comfortable as well,” she added.

Soon, Kiki’s Closet will make available some good T-shirt brands like Billabong and Quicksilver.

Enter Kiki’s Closet and come out with your best fashionable buy ever.

This article is from www.thenewstoday.info

In contrast with electronics, women's apparel sales fell 3.3% in the first half of November

Consumers are generally cautious heading into the critical holiday shopping season, with preseason trends suggesting that electronics sales may be solid while sales of apparel, particularly women's styles, could get pummeled.

Spurred by the release of a hot videogame and earlier-than-usual promotions on televisions, U.S. shoppers spent 6.1% more on electronics in the first half of November the month, through Nov. 14, than a year ago, according to a recent analysis from MasterCard SpendingPulse, a unit of MasterCard Advisors.

The new data, based on MasterCard SpendingPulse data, which reflect estimates on all payment forms, including cash and checks, comes days before Thanksgiving, the traditional kickoff to the holiday selling season, when consumers traditionally spend several hundred billion of dollars. Retailers count on holiday sales for as much as 40% of their annual sales and half their annual profits.



In contrast with electronics, women's apparel sales fell 3.3% in the first half of November. Sales in the category have fallen for more than a year, with nine months of double-digit declines from the year-earlier period since October 2008, according to SpendingPulse.

Spending on luxury goods showed the largest drop, with a 9.2% year-to-year decline, after posting an increase in October, MasterCard SpendingPulse said.

Overall, U.S. households are expected to spend about 7% less on gifts this season, shelling out an average of $390, according to a report released Monday by the Conference Board. This year, 39% of households are planning to spend less than $200, up from 35%. The Conference Board survey covers a sample of 5,000 U.S. households.

Sales of electronics in the preseason were aided by the hottest videogame of the season, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. The game came out early this month and shattered records, likely boosting sales for the category overall. Call of Duty made $550 million in its first five days of release, according to developer Activision Blizzard Inc., which said that was an entertainment industry record The results surpassed all videogame, movie box office and book sales records for five days after release.

In addition, retailers such as Best Buy Co., Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Amazon.com Inc. have begun earlier-than-usual promotions on TVs and videogames. And many people are buying laptops and netbooks loaded with Microsoft Corp.'s new Windows 7 operating system.

Preseason Internet sales of a range of merchandise were up 19.4% over the first two weeks of November 2008. Mark Snyder, chief marketing officer for Kmart, part of Sears Holdings Corp., said he has seen evidence that shoppers are plotting purchases. Kmart's layaway program, which expanded to online this year, is proving popular.

"The thing that is most different this season is the preparedness of our shopper," Mr. Snyder said. "Last year, the economy hit her right between the eyes. This year, instead of being defensive, she is being offensive and really scouring for bargains early, realizing the power is with her."
Journal Community

Vote: Will you buy personal electronics this holiday season?

Mr. Snyder said Kmart has also witnessed a trend toward gifts of lasting value, which is why the company is planning to sell 100% cashmere gloves and scarves, for $9.99, and down comforters, for $19.99, on Black Friday—the day after Thanksgiving and the biggest shopping day of the year for many retailers.

"Retailers have to dig deep and pull out their A-game right now, because it is a very competitive environment," Mr. Snyder said. "Whereas you might have given something more trendy in the past, a down comforter is relevant to what is happening right now."

For the first two weeks of November, sales within the specialty apparel category were down 5% from a year earlier. The decline was a sharp turnabout from October, when spending on specialty apparel rose 3.4%, providing a short-lived glimmer of hope before the Christmas shopping season. Men's clothing fell by 1% in early November. Sales of shoes, which had shown two consecutive months of year-to-year increases in September and October, fell by 1.5% in the first two weeks of the month.

The National Retail Federation said earlier this fall that it expects U.S. retail sales to fall to 2005 levels in the 2009 holiday season, though the expected decline of 1% isn't as deep as the 3.4% plunge of the 2008 holiday season.

According to a preliminary Black Friday shopping survey conducted for the National Retail Federation by BIGresearch, up to 134 million people plan to shop this Friday, Saturday or Sunday, up from 128 million who planned to last year. According to the survey, 57 million people say they will definitely hit the stores, while another 77 million are waiting to see what retailers are planning before heading out the door.

Discount and department stores will be the biggest attractions for consumers this weekend, with 66% and 62%, respectively, planning to head to their favorite big-box store; 41% said they would shop at electronics stores; 36% planned to visit a clothing or clothing accessories store.

Write to Vanessa O'Connell at vanessa.o'connell@wsj.com

This article is from online.wsj.com

Black Friday - one of the biggest shopping days of the year - rolls around

By Marian Accardi

Times Business Writer marian.accardi@htimes.com

Stores face challenges with slow economy, football rivalry

Black Friday - one of the biggest shopping days of the year - rolls around as the county's jobless rate remains at 7.5 percent and the average price of a gallon of gas in Huntsville is about a dime higher than a month ago.

Merchants have yet another challenge this year - the Iron Bowl football game starts at 1:30 p.m. on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, cutting into prime shopping time.

Retailers are fighting back with expanded hours, deals on popular merchandise and rewards for early-bird shoppers.

"We'll have more than 200 door-busters across the store - in accessories, apparel, shoes and in the home store," said Janet Brown, the manager of Belk's Parkway Place store. "We have lots of great items specially priced for that morning." The first 250 shoppers will also get gift cards in amounts from $5 to $1,000.

Belk stores open at 4 a.m. on Friday, an hour earlier than in previous years.

"This gives shoppers an extra hour to shop before the big game," said Brown. The Iron Bowl schedule, she said, did play a role in the retailer's decision to open earlier. "They realize what an important game this is, particularly in Alabama."

German Pardo, a manager at the Target store at Valley Bend at Jones Farm shopping center, promises very competitive discounts. And Target stores are opening Friday at 5 a.m., an hour earlier than in past years, and staying open until 11 p.m.

Even though the Iron Bowl falls on Friday afternoon, Pardo still expects a good turnout.

"I think it'll be a huge day for us," he said

This article is from www.al.com

Six great shop-local holiday events

With three young boys to raise, a fashion blog to keep up and a new e-tail business to run, Dawn Miller is hardly your average soccer mom. In fact, you're more likely to find Miller organizing a fashion show fundraiser instead of a bake sale, or coaching a game sporting a pair of city shorts and 4-inch stack-heeled penny loafers, not sneakers and sweats.


It's that love for fashion - and being involved in her community - that led Miller, a former personal shopper, to launch Alice andIsa.com, an online fashion boutique dedicated to Bay Area designers.

"I had this little 'aha' moment, " said Miller, 33, recalling a fruitless search for locally made belts for a former client nearly a year ago. "I knew there were some boutiques in the city that focused on local designers, but a lot of times they carry avant-garde stuff. There was really no one place you could go to buy clothing and accessories you could wear every day and that were made in San Francisco."

Named after two distinct, fictional style personalities who encapsulate the range of San Francisco style, the Web site features a range of designs and price points. Shoppers who dig the refined and retro-inspired Alice aesthetic might go for a leather Kerouac satchel in chocolate brown by 49 Square Miles ($600), a vintage barkcloth jacket by Sourdough ($300) or a delicate pair of glass bead-trimmed hoops by Jennifer Tuton ($95).

Those who gravitate toward the edgy and modern Isa vibe, on the other hand, might snatch up a pair of leather and chain-link spats by Ashes and Empires ($157), cozy, striped knit Cho-Cho arm warmers ($25), or a leather screen-printed belt by Project TransAction ($65).

Since its launch in June, the e-tail site, which Miller operates out of a tiny first-floor studio in her Outer Richmond District home, has increased from 30 unique visitors per day to an average of 300 to 600 unique visitors daily. Adding to the collection of about 25 mostly San Francisco designers, Miller has begun introducing interior design goods to the mix. She also plans to upgrade the site in the coming months with detailed biographies as well as video interviews of the designers working in their studios.

As a one-woman operation, traffic has slowly increased through Miller's own publicity efforts on social networking sites Facebook and Twitter, and the occasional coverage on fashion blogs such as SF Indie Fashion and Polyvore. Miller also plugs Alice and Isa on her own personal style blog, Mom Wore This (momworethis.tumblr.com), where she posts daily photos of herself in her decidedly non-soccer-mom outfits. "It's fun but silly!" Miller said. "My kids take my photos."

Emerging designer Annie Wilson, 32, has found the Web site to be a helpful platform for getting the word out about Sourdough, her new line of handmade jackets, and connecting with other local designers.

"There are sites out there like Thrillist and Daily Candy about the local goings-on, and you can shop local on Etsy," said Wilson, a Laurel Heights resident, "but the designers you find on Alice and Isa are all really well-branded and of higher quality than ones you find in the craft world - some of whom I've only discovered after getting involved."

Although Alice and Isa has a ways to go before matching the popularity of Daily Candy, Miller seems happy to be keeping it manageable enough to still have that personal connection to her shoppers. She's even been known to fulfill same-day order requests by showing up on customers' doorsteps free of charge, something she jokingly refers to as Alice and Isa's word-of-mouth-only "white glove service."

"This city has always been a place where people want to know the owner of their local coffee shop or who their grocer is down the street, but the recession has brought that idea of knowing where your products come from even more into focus," said Miller, who donates 10 percent of sales toward the San Francisco environmental organization For the Bayou.

"The point of Alice and Isa is to be that place you can go to find something special that's locally made, so that the money stays within our community and you're supporting designers who live here."

Six great shop-local holiday events

If you're looking for additional places to find locally made gifts for the holidays, check out these upcoming sales and events:

Accessories in Action Fashion Fundraiser

What: Hobnob with local fashion industry professionals over cocktails and art while supporting Soles4Souls, a nonprofit organization that donates footwear to those in need in more than 125 countries.

Don't miss: '70s-inspired Love, Melody handbags, Frolick jewelry, and feather and leather accessories by Serina Coscina.

Info: Fri., noon-6 p.m. 111 Minna Gallery, 111 Minna St., S.F; (415) 974-1719; 21 and over. General admission is $8, $5 for those who donate a pair of new or gently worn shoes.

S.F. Design Center 27th Annual Holiday Sample Sale

What: More than 150 exhibitors will offer deep discounts on jewelry, paper and leather goods, beauty products, home accessories, toys and apparel.

Don't miss: Hobo International leather accessories, womenswear by Margaret O'Leary and whimsical PJs by the Cat's Pajamas.

Info: Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; next Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 635 Eighth St. S.F.; (415) 490-5800. Admission is $6 per person at the door; discount admission using ad from The Chronicle's Nov. 22 Datebook.

Chillin' Productions

What: Soak up music by local DJs, live painting, photography, art and video installations - all while you mingle and shop.

Don't miss: Hand-forged, geometric jewelry designs by Elizabeth Lass, men's shirting by Saaz Designs and one-of-a-kind clothing by Momoca.

Info: Dec. 5, 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Mezzanine, 444 Jessie St., S.F.; 21 and over. Admission is $8 at the door. chillinproductions.com.

Appel & Frank Stockings & Stilettos

What: Enjoy complimentary drinks, hand massages and skin consultations while you peruse clothing, accessories, home accessories, beauty and baby products from more than 70 independent vendors.

Don't miss: Womenswear by Effie's Heart, Helena de Natalio's leather handbags and a colorful assortment of Stella & Dot jewelry.

Info: Dec. 10, 5-9 p.m. The Regency Center, 1270 Sutter St., S.F.; RSVP in advance for free general admission or $10 VIP tickets that include a gift bag; $10 general admission at the door. appelandfrank.com.

The Crucible's Holiday Art Sale and Open House

What: Observe more than 70 Bay Area artisans in their natural habitat as they blow glass, cast metal and throw pottery at this kid-friendly event.

Don't miss: Handmade headwear by O'Lover Hats, streetwear by Fiftyseven-Thirtythree, soldered metal jewelry by Shaya Durbin and a rare visit from Santa.

Info: Dec. 12-13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Crucible, 1260 Seventh St., Oakland; (510) 444-0919. Free admission. thecrucible.org.

Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale

What: The DIY movement goes big time at this expo of more than 150 indie craft designers selling everything from ceramics and posters to onesies and tea towels, all under one roof.

Don't miss: Free raffle prizes from Chronicle Books, Jenny Hart's Sublime Stitching and Faythe Levine's Handmade Nation.

Info: Dec. 19-20, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Fort Mason Center Herbst Pavilion, Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street, S.F. Free admission and one hour free parking. renegadecraft.com.

Style Cinema S.F.

What: Hosted by local fashion bloggers Annie Wilson and Catie Nienaber and Dawn Miller of online boutique Alice and Isa, this monthly fashion film screening delivers free movies, a smattering of shopping and plenty of socializing.

When: 6:30 p.m. Jan. 14

Don't miss: The double feature, which includes documentaries "Unzipped" and "Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton." Swing by the designer table to pick up a few accessories by 49 Square Miles, Vivi Dot and Jennifer Tuton after the show.

Info: Free. Velo Rouge Cafe, 798 Arguello Blvd., S.F. (415) 752-7799 or facebook.com/stylecinemasf.

Nerissa Pacio is a contributing fashion and beauty editor at 7x7 magazine. E-mail comments to style@sfchronicle.com.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/11/22/LV6C1AK7H9.DTL#ixzz0XeMQ8QNO

Toby Claudio to open Runnr Cebu on December 1 at Ayala

I had the chance to sit beside Toby Claudio last week at Bigby’s in SM. Toby is the scion of the Claudio clan, owner of Toby’s Sports, the country’s leading sporting goods retailer.

Toby was in town to finalize the opening of Runnr Cebu on December 1 at Ayala, the first store outside of Metro Manila. The first branch is in Bonifacio High Street in Taguig, a relatively new store but already the watering hole of runners.

Putting up a branch in Cebu wasn’t such a no-brainer but then Toby insisted that Cebu is a major city, thus Runnr has to be present in Cebu, and “to be the authority for running, gears, books, or everything needed for running.”

And for good measure.

Cebu is agog with running events. Too many races - that for example on November 29 - there are three events firing off almost simultaneously. The running bug has beaten almost all Cebuanos and often the road teems with runners.

Unlike Toby’s that is sort of a general sporting goods store, Runnr is a specialty store.

When it opens, Cebuanos will get the chance to scrutinize the latest running shoes in Runnr’s inventory that include Adidas, Asics, Fuelbert, Hammer, Nathan, New Balance, Nike, Polar and Newton.

It will also offer apparel, accessories, arch support and insoles, watches and eyewear, nutrition and even running books.

What would entice a runner to check out the place is the Footworx Fitting process that uses three state-of-the-art technologies: Foot Disc, High-Speed Video Gait Analysis and Custom Insole Molding.

Through Foot Disc, the runner’s true foot type is determined. Then the runner runs through a treadmill while a digital camera captures the gait (or the bearing or carriage while in motion) to determine pronation or Gait Analysis. The runner could try different shoes to find out the model that suits him or her best.

Insoles or arch support could be produced in minutes while the runner waits, thanks to the technology that Runnr will be bringing to Cebu.

As I listened to Toby discuss all these, what tickled my fancy was the man himself.

Toby has bad knees, had slipped discs, and LBP. Essentially, he should not be doing any running at all although he played college baseball, for UP in the NCAA.

Thanks to technology, Toby is back on the road and has completed a half marathon, so far, and is contemplating on joining the Cebu Marathon in January 2010. “As long you stick to it, you could do it,” he said.

That’s what Toby has envisioned Runnr to become. In his words, “to be an authority for running” in Cebu City. Matter of fact, he said, when a customer comes in the door, anybody at Runnr should already know what he or she needs!

When Toby was asked what he would recommend to a new runner who may wander at Runnr his curt reply was, “I’d recommend a good book about running.”

So watch out for the opening of Runnr Cebu. To know more about what the store will be offering, please visit www. runnr.com.ph.

By the way, I tested a Runnr pair of socks last Sunday. The soft, moist absorbent fabric pampered my feet. I never felt so comfortable in a while.

For comments, please write rabai_o@yahoo.com

This artile is from www.philstar.com

Amer Sports opens factory outlet in Ogden

Ogden » At the new Amer Sports factory outlet store on Saturday, Genevie Noriega and her husband John walked among the racks of coats and other outdoor wear, pausing occasionally to check the prices on merchandise with brand names like Atomic and Salomon.

As she let a price tag on a coat slip from her hand, Noriega, who now lives in Clearfield, said she is encouraged to see the outlet store opening in her and her husband's old neighborhood.

"We both grew up only a couple of blocks from here -- me on 21st street and him on 22nd," she said. "It's nice to see so much development going on around here. It sure does beat seeing boarded up windows."

The store is the first for the Finland-based Amer Sports Corp., which in 2007 opened its North American headquarters in Ogden's historic American Can Building, a structure that had been vacant for nearly 30 years.

Teresa Leavitt of Amer Sports Winter & Outdoor Americas said the company decided to open its outlet store, which is also in the American Can building, after members of the community expressed interest. The company typically sells its products to retailers.

"This is an entirely new concept for us," she said.

The outlet store informally opened at the end of August but Saturday marked its grand opening. Hundreds flocked in throughout the day. At times, customers were lined up six to eight deep in several lines as they waited to pay for their selections of shoes, shirts and other softgoods.

For Ogden, the Amer Sports factory outlet store represents far more than a new business that has opened its doors, said John Patterson, the city's chief operating officer. It also is another indication that Ogden's long-running effort to establish itself as a hub for the outdoor recreation industry is continuing to pay off.

Amer Sports is among the largest of nearly a dozen outdoor companies that now call the Ogden area home.

"Ogden has done a good job of going after the outdoor products companies and making this an outdoor sports town," said Jared Talbot as he walked out of the store carrying his 22-month-old daughter Mallary, who happily clutched a blue balloon she had received inside.

Talbot, a crusher operator for Geneva Rock Products, said he bought shorts during his first visit to the store. "It's a little cold for them now, but I saved $30. I'll be wearing them next summer," he said.

This article is from www.sltrib.com

Marche International Foundation's Bazaar on Nov 21 to 22 at the Makati Sports Club

MANILA, Philippines - Now in its fifth year, Marché Bazaar will be held on Nov. 21 and 22 at the Makati Sports Club in Salcedo Village. Marché International Foundation offers the unique Finds Fair boasting a variety of goods from the finest handcrafted jewelry pieces to the best food and household giftware.

Marché International Foundation is a civic, non-profit organization that partners with other associations that share the goal of civic work and social uplift.

In the food division, you’ll find Trappist preserves made by the monks of Guimaras, Iloilo; baked turkey, relleno, meat loaf and baked ensaimadas alongside heirloom recipes; special ham by chef Raffy Valero; gourmet dips, sauces and dressings by chef Toby; chef Bichara’s culinary magique, authentic Chinese lumpia and other goodies; the famous dulce leche pastillas and the traditional San Nicholas cookies from Pampanga.

For non-edibles, there will be Bon Schuck table and garden water fountains that were carved from rocks found in the mountains of Zambales, quality leather goods from Brossman, kitchen equipment from NRP Products, and stunning footwear from the Pink Chocolate New York collection. There will also be handcrafted jewelry pieces from Italian, Indian and local designers. Featured as well are CITEM exporters, organic cosmetics, export overruns, stuffed toys, apparel and accessories for men, ladies and children. In addition, there will also be Christmas decor, imported home decor, bags and footwear, novelty items, handicrafts, wines and homemade food products.

The bazaar is a wonderful hunting ground for anyone looking for eco-friendly beauty products like Colore Science and Dr. Susan Lin’s MD 101 eyelash grower and conditioner.

Most worthy of praise is the partnership between Marché and Nasaru Ntoyie of Kenya. Nasaru’s mission is to rescue young Maasai girls, and they raise funds by making and selling Maasai handicrafts in an effort to support and rescue these vulnerable children.

Moreover, one of the key goals this year is to promote the livelihood projects of Husay Pinay, a group organized by Joy Belmonte-Alimurung, which develops the skills and provides livelihood opportunities to the women of Quezon City.

Marché International Foundation is also involved in other community projects to benefit those who are marginally strapped and those who are rebuilding their lives after surviving the typhoons. Marché International Foundation has joined hands with the following organizations in their various civic and community projects: the Rotary Clubs of Makati East and Makati Urdaneta, Fraternal Order of Utopia, Rising Phoenix Foundation, U! Happy Events Foundation and the National Council of Women of the Philippines (NCWP)

Marché president Yu Ming Chin and vice president Myrna N. Alimurung invite you to the lively Marché International Foundation Bazaar 2009, which includes the auction of surprise items, discounted prices and promotions of sponsors Banco de Oro, RFM Corp., Tagaytay Highlands-Belle Corporation, PGA Cars, RJ Guitars and Del Monte Philippines. Media partners are Focus Media, XFM 92.3 and The Philippine Star.

Major credit cards are accepted. For inquiries, call 637-5639, 0917-5096983, 0917-5368413, or log on to www.marchebazaar.com.

Consumers will have more access to high-end clothing brands

Luxury dressing got a little less luxurious this week.

First came Jimmy Choo, the maker of $795 python stilettos. On Saturday, the company debuted a line of clothing, shoes and accessories at 10 H&M stores in the U.S. Next up: Badgley Mischka, a design label favored by Hollywood starlets headed for the red carpet. On Tuesday, the firm premiered its American Glamour line – a more affordable collection of its apparel and accessories – exclusive to HSN at 9:00 p.m. Eastern on the channel and on hsn.com. (The extended line will be available in March 2010.)

What is going on here? With the sales of luxury goods on the skids, high end designers are on the lookout for ways to make up their margins--and are following the money. These days, that means moving to the value sector – or discount stores – where sales are on the rise. The TJX Companies (TJX: 39.10, -0.04, -0.10%), which includes TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods, posted a 10% increase in same-store sales for the third quarter of 2009 compared to a year ago. Ross Stores (ROST: 44.85, -1.22, -2.64%) reported a 9% increase during the same period. By contrast, Saks (SKS) posted just a 0.7% sales increase and Neiman Marcus saw a 6% drop.

“High-end luxury is going to be in a tailspin for many years because the way people spend will be impacted for a long time even after a recovery,” says Jeff Green, the president of Mill Valley, Calif.-based Jeff Green Partners, a retail consulting firm. Exclusive designers have “started to align with off-price and mass merchants to sell a more affordable, yet stylish product in an attempt to address consumers’ shift toward value,” he adds.

The trend of course isn’t new. Back in the early part of the decade, designers like Isaac Mizrahi and Karl Lagerfeld helped pave the way for such partnerships by teaming up with Target and H&M, respectively. The trend though has accelerated in the last two years, with a handful of big names announcing deals. Most recently, that includes Dana Buchman and famed wedding designer Vera Wang who both have lower priced lines at Kohls.

What does high-end clothing at discounted prices mean for retailers—and consumers?

How do high-end designers lower their prices with these collaborations?

Jimmy Choo items at H&M are priced from $25 for a bracelet to $300 for over-the-knee leather boots, says Jennifer Uglialoro, a spokeswoman for H&M. Clothing ranges between $69.95 and $249. That’s a huge price difference from Jimmy Choo women’s shoes that sell for $350 to $1,295.

One of the reasons for the big price difference is that H&M buys its own fabrics for the merchandise, and it buys the fabrics in bulk, says Uglialoro. That helps bring down the price points, as does the fact that H&M uses its own production offices for these collections. The designers provide the sketches and the designs. (A Jimmy Choo spokesperson wasn’t available for comment.)

Each agreement between a designer and retailer will vary. Bill Brand, a vice president at HSN, says that materials in Badgley Mischka’s American Glamour collection come from the designers – not HSN. Meanwhile, the price points in the American Glamour collection will be lower than the regular Badgley Mischka apparel, wrote Rod Caldwell, a spokesman for Badgley Mishcka, in an email. “A couture handbag of ours could be a couple of thousand dollars and the fantastic bags we are doing for HSN, the customer can get for a few hundred.”

What should consumers know?

Consumers will have more access to high-end clothing brands since they’re in more stores and they’ll be able to afford designer clothing that used to be out of their budget.

But the more affordable designer versions may have some differences, like the types of fabrics that are used. “Sometimes it will be a lower-grade fabric – not that rare fabric in the designer’s store – that can be pumped out in a factory,” says Claudia Sagan, a San Francisco-based retail consultant who works with retailers, including William Sonoma and Ann Taylor, and shopping center developers.

What are the perks and risks for retailers?

Typically, the retailer assumes most of the risk regarding the costs of production, but in the best of cases, such collaborations help to boost the retailer’s store sales and brings in new customers who might not otherwise shop at the store.

That’s especially the case when the retailer rolls out a limited collection that doesn’t get replenished--H&M’s tactic with the Jimmy Choo line. “Once it’s sold out, it’s gone forever,” says Uglialoro. In the past, with designers like Stella McCartney, Viktor & Rolf and Roberto Cavalli, some lines sold out within the day while others took a couple of days. Limited supply creates demand that will likely spur sales beyond normal sales projection for that time period, says Sagan.

Meanwhile, as the economy continues to falter, HSN has seen an increase in its relationships with high-end designers. (Another reason is that during the past two to three years, HSN has rebranded its fashion business to focus more on designers and lifestyle brands, says HSN’s Brand.)

“Designers look at HSN as a very powerful platform through to either relaunch or showcase brands or maybe meet a lower price-point consumer without diluting what they might have at Saks [Fifth Avenue], “ says Nancy Hull, a senior vice president of equity research who tracks HSN at Ladenburg Thalmann & Co., an investment services firm.

HSN’s TV platform and web site sales dropped by less than 1% in the third quarter to $467 million from the third quarter of 2008. This relatively small decline resulted from layoffs, improved customer service and inventory that HSN decreased by 15% compared to third quarter 2008, says Hull.


What are perks for designers?

In this economy, such collaborations help high-end designers, especially because they can avoid the financial headache that they risk incurring when they sell at department stores, says Howard Davidowitz, founder of a Manhattan-based retail consultant and investment banking firm. At a department store, it will take a longer time for a designer’s items to sell, particularly now when most of those stores’ sales are down. And should the apparel not sell, designers might have to pay the department stores for markdowns.

“There is no question it is a different world today, and women are shopping differently than they used to,” says Badgley Mischka’s Caldwell. With American Glamour on HSN, the designers are diversifying their product offerings and the people they’re reaching, he says.

In fact, designers often see an increase in sales and consumer interest that coincides with their debut on HSN, says Hull.

What are their risks?

High-end designers could face a brand risk by commoditizing their brands and making them accessible to more consumers, says Sagan.

“Much of marketing is designed around brand elevation, but this is almost the opposite,” she says. In the short term, their collaborations with discount retailers will result in greater brand awareness and it’ll help increase their sales. “But is the long-term ramification that it erodes your brand and what it stands for? It might.”


This article is from www.smartmoney.com

Amazon.com bought online shoe retailer Zappos.com in a $1 billion-plus deal

Clearly, Amazon.com sees shoes as a growth category. The company just bought online shoe retailer Zappos.com in a $1 billion-plus deal — the biggest acquisition in its history. Amazon has also been expanding the shoe business in some of its big international markets. In March, the company launched an ecommerce site in Japan, called Javari, devoted to shoes and accessories. And Amazon just launched another Javari shoe site in the U.K.

Before Amazon bought Zappos, it tried out its own branded shoe-and-accessories site, called Endless.com. But Endless didn't get major traction in the market, and Amazon ended up acquiring Zappos (Endless is still around, however).

Endless and the U.K. Javari site offer free shipping and free returns for up to a year — policies that Zappos used to build a loyal following and reputation for customer service.

Amazon seems to be taking that model into other types of apparel. The company recently launched a new denim store with free shipping and free 30-day returns on jeans.

This article is from www.techflash.com

GapKids and babyGap announced plans for a second collection by Stella McCartney

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

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

About Stella McCartney

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

About Gap Inc.

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

This aricle is from newsticker.welt.de

NIKE, Inc.declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.27 per share on the Company’s outstanding Class A and Class B Common Stock

NIKE, Inc. (NYSE: NKE) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.27 per share on the Company’s outstanding Class A and Class B Common Stock. The $0.27 quarterly dividend, which is payable on January 4, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 7, 2009, represents an eight percent increase over the previous quarterly rate of $0.25 per share.

"We are pleased to increase our dividend for the eighth year in a row,” said Mark Parker, President and CEO of NIKE, Inc. "Over the last five years we have more than doubled our annual dividend and paid out over $1.8 billion to shareholders – reflecting our commitment to delivering value to shareholders and our on-going confidence in the business.”

About NIKE, Inc.

NIKE, Inc., based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world’s leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly owned Nike subsidiaries include Cole Haan, which designs, markets and distributes luxury shoes, handbags, accessories and coats; Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic footwear, apparel and accessories; Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes action sports and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories; and Umbro Ltd., a leading United Kingdom-based global football (soccer) brand. For more information, Nike’s earnings releases and other financial information are available on the Internet at www.nikebiz.com/investors.

This article is from newsticker.welt.de

NIKE Invests $135 million in a new distribution center in Frayser-Raleigh

Nike's $135 million investment in a new distribution center in Frayser-Raleigh drew rave reviews from Memphis warehouse and distribution industry insiders.

"Fascinating," said Kara Peyton, president of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals' Memphis unit.

"Way above average," said Robert Milner, a sales consultant with ADC Integrated Systems, a warehouse technology company.

It's huge, at 1.1 million square feet, the equivalent of more than 20 football fields.

It's Earth-friendly, from skylights and energy-efficient conveyor motors to a major commitment to recycling to shredded blue jeans used to insulate office and cafeteria walls.

It's all about the Nike Swoosh, holding 6.7 million pairs of athletic shoes in 69,000 distinct variations of size, color and style.

Nike built the footwear distribution center at 3100 New Frayser Boulevard to consolidate operations from 8400 Winchester in Hickory Hill and Wilsonville, Ore. The Winchester site became a national return center, and a Shelby Drive facility distributes Nike apparel and athletic equipment.

The supply chain council organized an early morning tour at Nike Tuesday as an alternative to the group's typical after-working-hours events. Peyton was happy with the outcome, because about 40 members got to see the inner workings of the warehouse live and up close.

They saw a cavernous building filled with conveyor belts, chutes, sorting equipment and storage shelves stacked high with boxes, cases and pallets of shoes. Workers combined bar-code scanners, radio frequency identification tag technology and voice-based warehouse management systems to scan, sort, store and ship boxes of shoes.

"This is very high technology," said Milner.

Nike employs about 450 full-time at the center and uses another 100 to 300 temporaries based on the daily workload.

The building is the largest in the country to achieve a silver level certification in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program.

Among its green features: stormwater capture for irrigation, motion detector that turns out lights when a space isn't in use and internal reuse of corrugated paper. In the cafeteria, disposable cutlery is made out of potato peels.

Employees have 24-7 access to a well-equipped fitness center, and in the courtyard outside the cafeteria are two basketball courts and a sand volleyball court.

"What you are going to see today represents a $135 million investment not only in the community, but in the Nike supply chain network," general manager Stephen Smith told council members.

Director of operations Marcus Buford said volume has grown from about 100,000 a day to as high as 240,000 a day since the center processed its first shipments last fall.

"This ramp-up here has been nothing short of amazing," Buford said. "There's not a contingency plan. We are Nike footwear for the United States."

-- Wayne Risher: 529-2874

Nike Northridge

What: 1.1 million square foot distribution center for Nike footwear; combined footwear warehouse and distribution operations from 8400 Winchester and Wilsonville, Ore.

Where: 3100 New Frayser Boulevard, east of Range Line

Startup: First product received Aug. 4, 2008; first shipment made Sept. 8, 2008

This article is from www.commercialappeal.com

NIKE Considered

Lorrie Vogel is the general manager of Nike Considered, Nike’s in-house sustainability think tank. She holds a degree in Industrial Design from Syracuse, and numerous patents. Her work in innovating around sustainability has helped put Nike on Fast Company’s Fast 50 list multiple times. Considering how aggressive Nike’s sustainability goals have been, it’s even more impressive that they are on track to meet their targets.

Sustainability is second only to performance when ranking the critical factors of a product. Nike is committed to making their entire collection as environmentally responsible as possible. Lorrie Vogel spoke at the Opportunity Green conference in Los Angeles, explaining some of the ways Nike is meeting these targets. In this phone interview, Lorrie expands on some of the points she touched on in her presentation. The conversation is split into two articles, in order to go deeper into the many changes that need to happen to increase use of recycled and organic materials in apparel and footwear. We begin with a discussion about materials, and conclude with the human element needed to ensure these changes occur in a timely manner.

From Nike: The long-term vision for Considered is to design products that are fully closed loop: produced using the fewest possible materials, designed for easy disassembly while allowing them to be recycled into new product or safely returned to nature at the end of their life. By 2011, 100 percent of footwear will meet baseline Considered standards, apparel by 2015 and equipment by 2020 – creating better performing products while minimizing environmental impact by reducing waste, using environmentally preferred materials and eliminate toxins.

To continue reading, click How Nike Considered Uses Innovation and Collaboration to Close the Loop

This article is from cleantechnica.com

Jimmy Choo Capsule Collection at Powell Street

Roommates Alia Al-Sharif 21, Jo Wiencek 21, and Alex Platt, 21, scholarship students at USF all, were not about to leave their love of shoes to chance. So they camped out for 17 hours outside the Powell Street H&M store so they could be among the first in line when the doors opened at 10 a.m. Saturday and the Jimmy Choo capsule collection went on sale. Right alongside them were Nghi Lu, 23, an art student in San Diego and pal Holly Luong, 23.

According to our ace style spy Meredith White, the five fans of the line became fast friends, and before long, had decided to combine their resources, strategizing about who would scout out which prized items. (Lucky for them, they ran five consecutive sizes so they would not be pitted against each other).

Eric Lopez, 33, of Emeryville, was at the Comme des Garcons release last year and said the Choo event was a vast improvement. He got everything he came for -- boots, jeans, shirt, and wallet. Congrats Eric!

The drizzle and rain did not dampen their spirits, only steeled their collective resolve. As employees brought out clothing to fill the display racks and shelves, the waiting masses would shriek with glee, not unlike tweens at a Jonas concert. "Oh there it is, oh there's the dress!!"

Shortly before the store opened, employees handed out green wristbands to the self-described "Fab Five" and the 15 others at the front of the line and told them they would have 10 minutes to shop in an area then had to move on to another part of the store. Smartly, the goods were spread out in different locations throughout the two-story store, not clumped together just inside the front doors, like the Comme des Garcons for H&M collection was last year. That set-up created a hysteria that bordered on becoming a full-fledged melee, as everything with the CDG label was stripped from the walls and displays within five minutes and there was a fair amount of shoving and screaming.

This time, shoppers entered in a more controlled fashion, but by 10:13, 724 people had gone through the door. When one of the SFPD officers was asked if he was wearing Jimmy Choo boots in honor of the occasion, he replied cheekily: "No, they are not so good for foot pursuit."

Ah, but it's the pursuit FOR the foot that makes the line so coveted.

As the morning wore on, a sea of "Jimmy Choo for H&M" electric blue tote bags filled Union Square and the environs, creating a near-blinding effect when the bright sun hit the glossy paper, wielded like trophies by the triumphant shoppers carrying them by the armful.

Khevan, a saxophonist, who regularly plays at the corner of Powell and O'Farrell outside H&M, started playing at 8 a.m. to entertain the more than 700 people in line.

The "Fab Five," all of whom said they could never afford the Jimmy Choo handbags and shoes for sale at the departments stores a few paces away, were thrilled with their purchases -- shoes, jewelry, coin purses -- and the highly coveted $299 thigh-high leather boots that are the hottest item of the line. "This is the closest we'll ever come to Jimmy Choo," many said.

By mid-day, there were hundreds of eBay listings for the studded, strappy stilettos and sequined tanks that and been swept out of the stores only shortly before. By 10 p.m. Saturday night, there were more than 1,000 offerings -- many marked up higher than the price of offerings at Neiman's, or Saks. A startling majority had no bids at all, even though they were 24-hour listings.

So if you have your heart set on a certain item, check back often, and you'll more than likely have a pretty good shot.

This article is from www.sfgate.com