Rebekah Wing
Guiri Uribe
Joana Gröblinghoff
Ala Konturek
Marie M
Louise Walleneit and her conceptual label Birthday Suits will be bringing experimental fashion to the forefront of London Fashion Week this season.
The innovative luxury label known for blurring the boundaries between research, art and fashion is set to cause quite a stir amongst British press keen to see Walleneit’s signature experimental silhouettes and approach to Aut/Win 2011.
Walleneit’s background in the arts led to the launch of her label in 2008. The philosophy behind the brand states: ‘The ideas and products develop in a Tran disciplinary space between fashion, art and research. 3- dimensional statements are made, based on periodic changing concepts. The progress of translation from the current state of a shape into another state is the design method to overcome borders between fashion, art and research.’
Birthday Suits Autumn/winter 2011 collection can be viewed at the Charing Cross Hotel, The Strand on Saturday 19 February 2011 from 7.30pm as part of season V “A La Mode” LFW showcase.
The Brandix Group's stature as a world-leading environment-friendly apparel manufacturer was acknowledged when the Group's Head of Energy and Environment Iresha Somarathna was invited to address the prestigious Sustainable Fashion Seminar at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore recently.
The conference attended by a cross-section of representatives from the fashion industry and the apparel sector; including buyers, sales directors, marketing & merchandising managers, merchandisers and students; explored the need to find sustainable alternatives at different levels in the fashion industry.
The invitation to Mr. Somarathna to present the sustainability initiatives of the Brandix Group at this high-powered global forum was a significant affirmation of the innovative, environment-friendly practices of the Group, a spokesperson for Brandix Lanka said.
Areas ranging from raw materials to product development and factories to production processes were covered at the conference by Mr. Somarathna and the other distinguished speakers including Jay Naidu (Huntsman Singapore); Ken Watson (Industry Forum Service England); Eleonore Richardson (World Bank Group Cambodia); Rajesh Chabara (CRSWorks Consulting Singapore); Binay Choudhury (Control Union India) and William Anderson (Adidas Asia Pacific).
The Textile and Fashion Federation (TaF.f), the Textile and Fashion Federation Training Centre (TaF.tc) and the Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) were the chief organisers of the event.
"I consider it a privilege to have represented not just Brandix but my country at this global event," said Mr. Somarathna. "It was a valuable opportunity to share Brandix's vision of a 'greener' future with many leaders and corporates."
Brandix's pioneering efforts in sustainable manufacturing have been acknowledged in the global arena with the Brandix Eco Centre in Seeduwa being recognised as the world's first apparel factory to be rated LEED Platinum by the US Green Building Council. The Group's standing as a leader in eco-friendly manufacture was reaffirmed by the LEED Gold rating which was awarded to the Brandix Essentials Centre in Ratmalana, the first office building in Sri Lanka to receive this certification.
The Group has based its sustainability efforts on three pillars; Air, Water and Earth. A pledge to conserve these pillars has seen Brandix fix targets to reduce its carbon footprint by 30 per cent by 2012, a reduction of water consumption to 35 litres per day per head by 2011, and to achieve zero solid waste to landfill by 2012.
To complement this pledge, the Group committed in 2010 an additional US $2 million over the next two years to related initiatives. In addition, a group-wide campaign titled 'Go Green & Live Green' spearheaded by the Chairman of Brandix Mr. Ken Balendra himself has also been launched. This initiative hopes to create a change in lifestyle of the executives at Brandix in order to promote sustainability in the workplace.
Vivienne Tam, one of Asia’s most renowned fashion designers, has completed installation a new LED display by world-leading LED display solutions provider Lighthouse Technologies Ltd. (Lighthouse). Located at its 1881 Heritage shop in Tsim Sha Tsui, the new screen redefines Vivienne Tam’s reputation for mating traditional Chinese elements with 21st century fashion trends.
The screen, comprising 8 R4-S 4mm SMD LED panels in a 1 x 8 configuration, forms an impressive floor-to-ceiling display that attracts visitors with its vivid, rich visuals of the latest Vivienne Tam creations at fashion shows from around the world. The 4mm pixel pitch delivers unbelievably sharp visuals, important for close-distance viewing, while the 2000 nits brightness, 1000:1 contrast ratio and wide viewing angles guarantee crystal-clear visibility from anywhere. Besides, the screen can manually rotate to difference angels so that customers can see the screen from all angles.
"Vivienne Tam loves transforming traditional styles to appeal to modern consumers, and the addition of our new Lighthouse screen helps deliver that unique look with much greater impact,” said Mr Scott Crolla, Vivienne Tam. “When see visitors stop just to look at the impressive visuals the new screen provides, we realize they are actually making a difference in how people see the Vivienne Tam brand.”
"The fashion world survives on unbridled creativity, and we’re seeing a fast growing need to bring that creativity to the retail space for more thrilling customer experiences,” said Peter Chan, general manager of Lighthouse. “We’re very pleased to see how Vivienne Tam is staying ahead in fashion as well as retail with the new Lighthouse LED display, and we look forward to bringing our LED display solutions to more leading brands in the retail sector.”
Lighthouse continues to grow in 2010, having won several projects throughout the region. Currently Lighthouse provides solutions for a range of venues all over the world, from shopping malls and airports to high profile office buildings and world-class sports arenas.
Groupe Bikini Village inc reported that, for the second year running, it achieved solid sales in its third quarter of the fiscal year, a quarter traditionally marked by a seasonal slowdown in business volumes. The Company's third quarter 2010 sales performance nearly matched the high standard it had set last year.
2010 third quarter results
Net sales for the third quarter which ended October 30, 2010 were $6.5 million compared to $6.7 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. Comparable sales, which compares the sales from the same number of stores year over year, increased by 2% for the quarter.
The Company was able to stem operating loss (EBITDA) for the third quarter at $1.5 million, down $0.4 million from the $1.9 million operating loss (EBITDA) in the same period in 2009, by tightly managing inventories, focusing on full-price selling, and controlling costs. "While the third quarter traditionally presents a challenge due to the seasonal nature of the swimwear business, said President and CEO Yves Simard, Groupe Bikini Village's third quarter results over the last two years demonstrate the effectiveness of these strategies.".
For the quarter ended October 30, 2010, the Company's net loss was $1.5 million (($0.81) per share, basic and diluted), as compared to net loss of $1.8 million (($1.34) per share, basic and diluted) for the same quarter in the previous year.
Results for the first nine months of 2010
Net sales for the nine-month period ended October 30, 2010 were $30.8 million, up from $28 million in the corresponding period of the previous year. Mr. Simard attributes the Company's increased level of sales at the three-quarter mark in the year largely to its efficient and dynamic inventory management strategy, which has allowed the Company to focus on full-price selling and to fully benefit from the improved weather conditions its markets enjoyed in the second quarter of 2010. Comparable sales, which compares the sales from the same number of stores year-over-year, increased by 11.2% in the first nine months of 2010 over the first nine months of 2009.
Groupe Bikini Village delivered positive EBITDA of $1 million in the nine-month period ended October 30, 2010 compared to negative EBITDA of $1.3 million for the comparable nine-month period in the previous year. "The $2.3 million increase in operating income in the three first quarters of 2010 is the direct result of our strategy to tightly manage inventories and control costs – all of which led to a stronger overall gross margin, better store contributions and a reduction in our overhead expenses," Simard said.
For the nine-month period ended on October 30, 2010, net loss totalled $521,000 (($0.37) per share basic and diluted), as compared to net loss of $2.3 million (($1.69) per share, basic and diluted) in the same period of 2009.
Outlook
"The reduction in the Company's loss in the third quarter is solid evidence that the restructuring efforts we have undertaken over the last three years have been appropriate – and are working. The disciplined approach Groupe Bikini Village initiated three years ago has made the Company more competitive, and we are confident and enthusiastic as we look ahead. This approach will remain central to our activities in the months to come, as we continue to focus on sales and profitability," said Simard.
"Groupe Bikini Village enters the last quarter of 2010 with a good inventory situation and a strong cash position, due to the improved balance sheet that resulted from both our improved year-to-date performance, and our successful rights offering and private placement," he said.
"In the final quarter of 2010 and beyond, we look forward to leveraging these strengths – and the flexibility they allow us to show – to further our efforts in building shareholder value," said Simard. "Whether we do it by creating our own opportunities or by considering other strategic alternatives that may arise, building on our momentum – and on the value we deliver for our investors – will be our central focus."
Within the framework of Paris Capitale de la Création, Interfilière has named Liebaert Designer of the Year. A loyal exhibitor at the show, the Belgian company Liebaert will be celebrating its 125th birthday in 2012. One of the sector’s most dynamic players, it is being rewarded for its innovation capacities and the development of products designed for the shapewear market and/or eco-sustainable fabrics.
Details:
Salon International de la Lingerie
22-23-24 January, 2011
Paris Expo - Porte de Versailles
Company turnover for 2010 (€34 million euros) has increased by 25% and annual investments border on €3 million. Founded in 1887, the company is now run by the fourth generation of the same family, Alain and Pierre Liebaert, with 250 employees split between two Belgian production units: - one plant weaves and dyes elastic tape (125 machines, including 35 jacquards for a capacity of 40 million metres). - a second plant knits, dyes and digitally prints stretch fabrics (35 circular machines and 75 Raschel and warp-knitting machines for a capacity of 7 million metres).
Five types of machine have been developed specially at Liebaert’s request, including a 50-gauge knitting machine - the world’s finest - which is used to produce the famous “nanostitch” fabrics. This latest innovation was also made possible thanks to the exclusive use of an ultrafine microfibre yarn.
PHOTO COMPETITION Open to all Interfilière exhibitors, the competition offers them an opportunity to express the essence of their company, through unusual, funny or intriguing images: featuring their team, working environment, products or events, etc. Exhibited on the external wall of the VIP/PRESS Lounge, the photos will be judged by visitors and the press. The winner will receive a communication pack for the July 2011 session.
For almost 50 years, EUROVET, the world’s leading organizer of lingerie and beachwear trade fairs, has had the mission of serving the international industry. The first fairs were in Paris, the world’s fashion capital, next came Shanghai in 2005, Hong Kong in 2007, and in New York and Las Vegas in 2008 through a partnership with CurveExpo.
Burberry, the global luxury company, announces that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the stores and related assets in China currently operated by its long-standing franchisees.
This transaction is in line with Burberry’s strategy of unifying the brand around the world, while at the same time increasing its exposure to retail and to high growth luxury markets. The purchase price is approximately £70m in cash, subject to completion adjustments. The transaction is expected to add up to £20m to group operating profit in financial year 2011/12.
Angela Ahrendts, Chief Executive Officer, commented:
“The acquisition of Burberry's store operations in mainland China will allow us to further leverage our proven brand and business strategies in this high growth luxury region. With a solid foundation of 50 stores across 30 cities, operational expertise and strong brand momentum, this is an optimal time for Burberry to integrate this business.
Looking forward, we will accelerate growth by further capitalising on nearly 20 years of market presence and our high brand awareness in China. We plan to drive productivity in existing stores and open new stores, while rapidly implementing our digital marketing initiatives to further reinforce the brand in this exciting market.”
Kohl’s Department Stores announced that its store in Menomonee Falls, Wis. is the company’s 500th location to earn the ENERGY STAR label from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy. Kohl’s has a longstanding commitment to energy management and estimates that the company prevented nearly $50 million in electricity costs through energy efficiency programs such as replacing 75 watt incandescent bulbs with 24 watt metal halide bulbs, implementing building automation systems and better controlling variable speed fans on commercial rooftop HVAC units. Over the last four years, accounting for rate variations, these and other proactive energy management initiatives have translated into an improvement in energy efficiency of more than 20 percent, primarily in stores.
Kohl’s also announced that beginning in spring 2011, all newly constructed stores will pursue Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR designation, which is awarded for building designs with an estimated energy performance that meets ENERGY STAR criteria. Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR-designated buildings will be eligible for the ENERGY STAR after maintaining superior performance – rating 75 percent or better on a scale of 100 – for one year in operation. Five Kohl’s stores in 2010 have already received the Designed to Earn designation.
"Reaching the milestone of our 500th ENERGY STAR store is exciting for our company and our associates. We are building on our commitment to drive energy efficiency companywide as we continue to near our goal of being carbon neutral,” said Ken Bonning, Kohl’s executive vice president of store planning and logistics. “Energy management is an ongoing effort, and Designed to Earn designation for newly constructed stores will help us continue to achieve the high environmental standards we have in place for our facilities.”
Commercial buildings that earn the ENERGY STAR label rate in the top 25 percent of facilities in the nation for energy efficiency and performance, use an average of 35 percent less energy than typical buildings and release 35 percent less carbon dioxide. Through energy management efforts that include an industry-leading solar program, ongoing lighting upgrades, central energy management systems, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems and increased use of demand response controls, Kohl’s continually works to ensure its buildings are operating efficiently. Kohl’s also monitors performance of all stores through the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, which takes into account building occupants, hours of operation and energy use and normalizes data according to local weather.
A 2010 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year, Kohl’s has been a member of ENERGY STAR since 1998. Since the company’s West Bend, Wis. location became the company’s first store to earn the ENERGY STAR label, Kohl’s has continued to submit stores for ENERGY STAR certification. The company operates more ENERGY STAR-labeled stores than any other department store with nearly half of its stores earning the designation.
Based in Menomonee Falls, Wis., Kohl’s is a family-focused, value-oriented specialty department store offering moderately priced, exclusive and national brand apparel, shoes, accessories, beauty and home products in an exciting shopping environment. By the end of September, Kohl’s will operate 1,089 stores in 49 states with a commitment to environmental leadership. In support of the communities it serves, Kohl’s has raised more than $150 million for children’s initiatives nationwide through its Kohl’s Cares cause merchandise program, which operates under Kohl's Cares, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kohl's Department Stores, Inc.
Here’s your chance to get the look of stylish, fun and fashionable Sonam Kapoor who is all set to sweep you off your feet in her latest Bollywood movie- Aisha. Sonam plays the main lead of the movie Aisha and portrays an unmatched and graceful style. For all you lovely ladies out there, get that chic look of Aisha as L’Oreal Paris reveals the new stunning aisha collection which will definitely up your beauty and style quotient.
This exquisite collection includes UV Perfect, Pearl Perfect day cream, Glam Shine 6 H lip gloss, Blush Minerals and Khol Minerals.
The Aisha consumer offer is on till July 25th and will be on at all L’Oreal Paris counters.
That’s not all. Moreover, to feel like a real star, you can participate in the contest and win a golden opportunity to walk the red carpet with Sonam Kapoor.
Available at the L’Oreal Paris Boutique [Phoenix Mills, Mumbai] & all L’Oreal Paris counters across India from July 2010
Frederick's of Hollywood is excited to announce the debut of a sexy new collection of swimwear, 'Hollywood Sizzle Pool. Party. Swim.' launching at stores in summer 2011. The world-renowned lingerie purveyor will show the entire line for the first time to press and buyers during Miami SwimShow July 17th-20th at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
In true Hollywood style, Frederick's is rolling out the red carpet to celebrate the hottest new swimwear in the industry with an official launch party on July 17th at Mynt Lounge, Miami's most exclusive celebrity hotspot. Guests can view the collection on Moulin Rouge inspired dancers while listening to performances by DJ Julian Ingrosso and DJ Keidy.
The sultry suits take inspiration from the sexy lingerie looks and Hollywood heritage that made the Frederick's of Hollywood brand iconic. From the new-to-market "CORSETINI," inspired by the lingerie purveyor's extensive corset suite, to a "Tinsel Town" bikini embellished with gold sequins, the sizzling suits are worthy of the hottest pool parties from LA to Miami. The line even boasts an "I Do" bridal bikini and matching train sarong so brides-to-be can flaunt their status at poolside bachelorette parties from coast to coast.
"We are excited to debut our complete line of swimwear, Hollywood Sizzle Pool. Party. Swim., a bold collection that fits the varying tastes of beautiful, sexy women everywhere. This collection encompasses the essence of the Frederick's of Hollywood brand, while successfully bringing us from the bedroom into the fun and sun poolside," stated Thomas Lynch, Frederick's of Hollywood Group Inc. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We are confident the collection will be well received in Miami by retail buyers and media at SwimShow."
Shade specialty company, TUUCI, will take center stage with swim fashion sophisticates from Aqua Di Lara and QISS QISS at this weekend’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim event in Miami, Fla.
Two 11-foot Ocean Master Razor parasols by TUUCI will shade the end of the brightly lit runway, highlighting the glamour of the 2011 swimwear collection adorned by Aqua Di Lara and QISS QISS models. The parasols’ canopies will be constructed with TUUCI Tuff-Skins Sharkskin Silver fabric and will create a peak over the catwalk.
"Our shade structures are the perfect accent to an outdoor fashion event, especially one that involves swimwear,” said Dougan Clarke, founder and CEO of TUUCI. “Reyhan Sofraci’s Aqua Di Lara and QISS QISS lines are made with an edgy style that matches the architectural design of our parasols and engages the eye at first glance.”
The Razor parasol is an asymmetrical construction featuring a razor-like, self tilting canopy profile that can rotate a full 360 degrees. It provides shade no matter what time of day it is, creating the perfect retreat for poolside or beach bathing dawn to dusk.
Presented annually in Miami Beach, Fla. at The Raleigh Hotel, the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim event is invitation only. The Aqua Di Lara and QISS QISS show will begin at 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 17 at the Oasis outdoor area.
