Shoes : Running Shoes Hazardous to your Joints?

Compared to running barefoot, running in conventional running shoes increases stress on the knee joints up to 38%, according to a new study.

''There is an increase in joint torque that may be detrimental," says D. Casey Kerrigan, MD, the lead author of the study, published in PM&R: The Journal of Injury, Function and Rehabilitation.

Joint torque is a measure of how much a force causes the joint to rotate.

But Kerrigan is not advocating that runners take up barefoot running -- just that her findings may be a reason to redesign running shoes. Kerrigan, formerly chairwoman and professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, now heads JKM Technologies and is designing a running shoe.

At least one podiatric specialist calls the study finding ''much ado about nothing."
Running Shoes Study: Details

Kerrigan's team evaluated 68 runners -- 37 women, average age 31, and 31 men, average age 36 --   who ran at least 15 miles a week. None had any history of musculoskeletal injury.

Participants ran barefoot on a treadmill and then in a running shoe: the Brooks Adrenaline.

Kerrigan's team observed how each condition, barefoot and shod, affected the joints of the hip, knee, and ankle.

Compared to running barefoot, the researchers found running in running shoes increased stress on the lower extremities. They found a  54% increase in the hip internal rotation torque and a 36% to 38% increase in knee torque.  Is that increase mild, moderate, worrisome? "We don't know," Kerrigan tells WebMD. "We just know it's an increase."

She attributes the increased stress to the characteristic design of the majority of running shoes, including an elevated heel and increased material in the midsole arch.

Providing this cushioning in the heel, she suspects, counteracts the body's natural response to compensate for the torque associated with impact.

The increases found in her current study are higher than when she compared barefoot walking to walking in high heels. The high-heel shoes increased knee joint torque by 20% to 26%, she says.
Running Shoes Study: Analysis

Some torque on the knee is normal, of course. "What we are saying is, there is an increase over what would be experienced just walking around," Kerrigan says.

Her concern is that the excess stress may contribute to knee osteoarthritis, although the study did not look at a link between running shoes and injury or running shoes and the development of arthritis.

She isn't suggesting barefoot running -- a trend that's picked up steam in the past year or so -- is necessarily better than running in athletic shoes, she says.
 
Running Shoes Study: Other Opinions

''It's much ado about nothing," says Bruce Williams, DPM, past president of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine and a spokesman for the American Podiatric Medical Association, of the study results.

"She showed there was an increase in joint forces, but that's it," says Williams, a podiatrist in Valparaiso, Ind., and a runner. There was no link shown between running shoes and running injuries, nor with development of arthritis -- both beyond the scope of the study.

The bulk of research studies have found that runners don't have a higher incidence of knee osteoarthritis than the general population, Williams tells WebMD.

In one study, for instance, German researchers evaluated 20 former elite marathon runners and compared them to the general population, looking for arthritis. They found that knee osteoarthritis was rare in the former marathoners, publishing the result in the journal Orthopade.

Ideally, Kerrigan's team should have looked at many different shoe types, says Joseph Hamill, PhD, professor of kinesiology and director of the Biomechanics Laboratory at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, who has researched the biomechanics of running shoes. "For example, a racing flat has very little in the way of cushioning and is almost like running barefoot," Hamill says.

Running Shoes Study: Industry Input

In an email response, Tiffany Herman, a spokeswoman for Brooks Sports, which makes running shoes, says: ''We value the results of this study and are in active research and development on many unique performance running footwear solutions at Brooks."

''This includes styles that enhance the natural motion of the foot and body while offering protection from weather conditions, road debris, and individual biomechanical variances."

Running Shoes: What to Buy?

So what's a runner to wear -- or not wear? "Nobody should take the message that being barefoot is better than wearing any type of shoe whatsoever," says Williams of the new study.

Kerrigan, too, says her research isn't a vote for the barefoot running trend -- nor for giving up running.

"If you are happy with your running shoes, you don't necessarily have to change them," Williams says. But if you have an injury, he suggests consulting a sports podiatrist and getting advice about the best shoe features for you.

''I would suggest runners try a number of different types of shoes until they find one that they like," Hamill says. "Also, buy two or three pairs of shoes and rotate them each day."

Source : WebMD

Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: Holiday party fashion advice from experts

By Bronwyn Turner
Correspondent


Want to make Santa’s best-dressed list this year? Don the right apparel before you head for decked halls and you’ll be a hit at the holiday parties, area experts said. Here is a look at their Top 10 list of holiday fashion must-haves.

The Little Black Dress

“It’s more of a must this year because people are watching their pockets a little bit more, and it’s easy to make the black dress look different twice,” Jesse Conrad, owner of The Firm in Galveston, said.

Diana Montes, who co-owns Jill’s Fashions and Bridals with her husband in League City, is seeing dresses with one shoulder — “they call it the cold shoulder look.” Backs of dresses are a fashion statement as well, with cutouts and low backs.

Monica Barry, owner of ha.ba.’s in Galveston, advises going with color in holiday fashions, or if you have to wear the black dress, pull out the bling. “Really pump it up with large accessories and bright colors,” she said.

Sequins

Sequin dresses are back in again, with the large paillettes (sequin spangles used to detail and trim, sometimes of different shapes), Montes said. Conrad is seeing a lot of sequined shoes as well.

Glitz And Bling

“If you watch what’s going on with all of the MTV and teenage girls, bling everywhere is in — big bangle bracelets, big chunky necklaces, the big rings with lots of rhinestones on them,” Montes advised. Conrad sees glitz and gold in hair clips and bags as well.

Clutch Bags

Look for the bangle bracelet clutch bag. “You put it on your wrist instead of carrying it under your arm,” Dina Austin, store manager for Rainbow Apparel in the Mainland Crossing Shopping Center in Texas City, said.

Montes likes the “little bitty sequined handbag that can hold your cell phone, camera, compact and lipstick. ... For parties, clutches are hugely in.”

Shoes That Make A Statement

“Stiletto heels are still in, much to our chagrin — the higher the better, especially if it’s on a platform, like a 5-inch heel on an inch platform,” Montes said. Ankle and tall boots are part of the holiday fashion this year as well, the women said.

Barry noted the new shoe décor — open-bottomed leather bangle boots or high leather boots that attach to high heels. “Shoes are another way to dress up,” she said. “Nothing is just a simple pump any more.”

Leggings

Leggings in lace, fishnet and gold or silver lamé are fashionable this holiday season. Look for leggings worn under sequin dresses, with lots of color.

Faux Fur

Jackets, shawls, and capes with fur trim are in fashion. Watch for marabou, with small, fine fluffy feathers, in jackets and shawls. For the Interfaith Caring Ministries holiday style show last week in League City, Montes dressed a model in a form-fitted dress with an animal print top and faux fur jacket.

Shawls And Wraps

Shawls with sequins, knitted shawls, marabou feather shawls and psychedelic-colored shawls are all in fashion. Montes also likes a small marabou shrug (cropped garment that covers less than a vest worn over a shirt).

Vivid Colors And Prints

Animal and abstract prints are right for the party scene. Montes advises the color purple.

Makeup

Look for purples and pinks in eye shadow, and a little sparkle on the shoulders.

+++

Five Fashion Follies

• Trying to look older or younger. “Remember, our minds don’t age as quickly as our bodies do,” Diana Montes, who co-owns Jill’s Fashions and Bridals with her husband in League City, said. Teenage fashions are for teenagers.

• Clashing colors. Coordinate lipstick with your outfit. Stay within the same color palette.

• Poor fits. “Sometimes people can wear something that’s ill fitting and look disheveled,” Montes said.

• Rouge is not in. The more natural look is in.

• Embarrassingly form-fitting clothes. “You always want to accent the positive,” Montes said. “We all come in all shapes and sizes. It doesn’t matter if you’re a size 0 or size 32, you still want to look beautiful.”

SOURCE: Experts offer holiday party fashion must-haves

Aamir Khan t-shirts, shoes and accessories

Good news for Aamir and Kareena fans. Now you can have what your favorite actors wore on screen. We are talking about the t-shirts, shoes and accessories used by Aamir, Kareena and others in their upcoming flick “3 Idiot”.

Vinod Chopra Films and fashion retailer Pantaloons have collaborated to launch the 3 Idiots apparel and accessories collection at a gala event in Mumbai. The collection includes 10 Doodle t-shirts designed by Aamir for the film, some more t-shirts that Aamir, Madhavan and Sharman wore in the movie and also the apparels and accessories flaunted by the leading lady Kareena. Not only this, fans will have converse shoes of the movie available at the store Planet Sports which is a part of Future Group.

Aamir Khan walked the ramp at the launch in one of his self-designed doodle t-shirts. He naturally seemed to be very happy about the release of his own creation and said, “I hope people like my doodles”.

Mr. Sanjeev Agrawal, CEO, Pantaloons too was very happy to be associated with the movie and said, “It is very exciting for Pantaloons to associate with a movie like 3 Idiots and an actor of the calibre of Aamir Khan. Such a unique film required a new approach to replicate its irrepressible spirit.”

The “3 Idiots” apparels reflect the moods and characteristics of the movie. It has mainly three basic ranges of apparels worn by Aamir and seven others designed by the actor which he named Doodle!

Thanks Aamir and thanks to Pantaloons… with these merchandise available in the stores, “Aal Izz surely gonna be Well”!

SOURCE

Apparel + Shoes + Accessories: Holiday shopping suggesetions from clothing to jewelry

In 2009, after 63 years in business, St. Pete Beach Hardware closed its doors for good. Customers were stunned when they heard the news. "You just don't get the same service at the big stores," one regular said at the time.

Plenty of shoppers would agree. Independently owned shops offer touches that chains and bigger stores often don't, from personal service to whimsical goods you'll never find at the mall.

Sadly, in an economy that each day seems to invent new ways to pummel the little guy, it's independents like St. Pete Beach Hardware who suffer the most.

That's why this holiday season, we're turning the spotlight on local businesses for this Independent Shopping Guide. We surveyed Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties to find 60 of our favorite locally owned businesses. Our goal: To offer holiday shopping suggestions for anyone who wants to support the local economy. From clothing and jewelry to home decor, from gifts for foodies to gear for weekend warriors, we're confident you'll be able to find something for everyone on your list.

We couldn't list every independent business in Tampa Bay — for every shop we visited, there were probably five more we wish we could have included. But we think that's okay. Our hope is that once you check out the wares at these shops, you'll be encouraged to visit the locally owned businesses shops in your own neighborhood.

You'll never know what you might find. And you'll never know what you might miss when they're gone.

Clothing and jewelry

Reborn Couture

Before you party like a rock star, stop here for the perfect outfit. Reborn carries clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women who realize the Ed Hardy look is so over. Find a sequin dress for your sorority sister, a cool T-shirt for your kid brother or the perfect jeans for yourself. With hip music pumped in and a swanky sitting area in the back, the whole place feels very Vegas. 701 S Howard Ave., Tampa, (813) 254-4400; reborncouture.com.

Bernie's & Son Jewelers

Family-owned and operated for 33 years, this jewelry institution on Beach Drive sells a slew of baubles both pricey and affordable, with intricate and creative designs incorporating many styles of gemstones. If you want to hear a gasp on Christmas morning, go here. 154 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 823-2000, berniesandson.net.

DKM

Every woman on your list would find plenty to fancy at this fun, fashionable accessories store. This South Tampa favorite is a treasure trove for glittery Gasparilla, Florida Gators and Tampa Bay Bucs gear. The handbags, jewelry and watches are surprisingly affordable and stylish. Its Valentino-inspired purses look straight out of Neiman Marcus but sell for a fraction of the cost. Two Tampa locations: 3104 Palmira Ave., (813) 902-0044; and 4017 Henderson Blvd., (813) 281-8917; dkmaccessories.com.

Keys Country

This country and western apparel boutique proves that hip and country can go together. Keys Country declares itself to have a heart of country and a soul of rock 'n' roll. Its collection of clothing, cowboy boots and accessories caters to cool cowboys and cowgirls with attitude. Think Keith Urban, not the Hee Haw crowd. 1910 S Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa; (813) 253-5397; keyscountry.com.

Marion's

Owner Marion Mitchell's shop offers an array of jewelry, purses and home accessories in the Vera Bradley and Brighton mold, along with a number of Christian-inspired bangles and trinkets. The staff is more than happy to help male shoppers with ideas, too. 1301 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg; (727) 821-2345, marionsonline.com

In Search of Balance

Steve and Julie Meyer brought their relaxed outdoor-lifestyle ethic from St. Thomas to St. Petersburg in 2007. The shop is all about Colorado comfort, with labels like Patagonia, Prana, Horny Toad and their own eponymous line of Life Is Good-style T-shirts (check the $5 bin for some good deals). The recycled rice bag totes and hiking sandals are good sellers. 300 Beach Drive, Suite 135, St. Petersburg. (727) 823-0320, insearchofbalance.com.

Kit's Well Heeled & Well-Dressed

Ladies, this is one of those rare stores where you can find an outfit for yourself, your mom and your grandmother, and you'll all come out stylish. The boutique emphasizes feminine flair with flowery blouses, blinged-out heels, evening gowns and leopard-print everything. It also carries basis like jeans, exercise clothes, shapewear and even luggage. 714 S Village Circle, Tampa, (813) 250-125; kitswelldressed.com.

Love That!

This boutique is stocked with everything a girlie-girl needs. You'll find basics like jeans and tank tops, but also party dresses, lingerie and an assortment of jewelry, including trendy cuffs. There's also sassy stuff like painted wine and martini glasses, blinged-out Gators and Bulls accessories and aprons that read "My next house won't have a kitchen. Just vending machines." 4109 S MacDill Ave., Tampa, (813) 902-0500; lovethatonline.com.

Owen Sweet Design Studio and Gallery

"To my mind a piece of jewelry is a sculpture in miniature against a human background," says North Redington Beach art jewelry designer Owen Sweet, whose curving, modern bracelets and necklaces bring to mind Frank Gehry's architecture. Sweet, who owns the store with his wife, incorporates inspiration from his new home in Florida with his South African roots, creating whimsical gecko or shell pendants as well as stunning cuffs fit for ancient Egyptian queens. 16701 Gulf Blvd., North Redington Beach. (727) 392-6936; ohsosweet.com.

Zoey Bloom

If you hear someone at this boutique say SoHo, assume they're talking about New York City, not Tampa's South Howard Avenue. Zoey Bloom sells jewelry, handbags and shoes for the fashion-forward buyer looking for big-city names without going to a big city. Its purses by Hammitt Los Angeles have been spotted on Angelina Jolie, Paris Hilton and Kelly Ripa. 1710 S Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa; (813) 251-1706, zoeybloom.net.

SOURCE: The Independent Shopping Guide: 60 cool Tampa Bay stores worth checking out this Christmas

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: 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

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

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

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