NEW DESIGNER AT L&T/2 BARNEYS’ SAN FRANCISCO TREAT/11 WWDWomen’s Wear Daily • TheWEDNESDAY Retailers’ Daily Newspaper • September 19, 2007 • $2.00 Sportswear Tennis, Anyone? The U.S. Open may have ended, but that didn’t stop many designers from working their sportier sides on the New York runways. Richard Chai, for one, showed a spring collection that was sophisticated, confi dent and energetic. Here, his tennis knit worn over a cotton shirtdress. For more sporty looks, see pages 4 and 5. Shadowy Fund-raiser: Past of Norman Hsu Traced to Men’s Wear

By Evan Clark and Kristi Ellis WASHINGTON — Norman Hsu, the scandal- plagued fund-raiser tied to presidential candidates Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama, has made much mileage out of his involvement in the fashion world — but his industry activities remain a mystery. While the companies Hsu lists on his contribution forms no longer exist, if they ever did, his claim to a fashion background at least has some legitimacy — in the Eighties, he was an aspiring fashion executive trying to live out the American dream, driving around Los Angeles in a flashy sports See Hsu’s, Page 7 PHOTO BY ROBERT MITRA ROBERT PHOTO BY 2 WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 WWD.COM L&T Near Deal With Abboud NRDC has already estab- nesses, which in some cases will WWDWEDNESDAY By David Moin Sportswear lished partnerships and fi- provide product and new lines ord & Taylor is close to com- nancial arrangements with a for Lord & Taylor and possibly Lpleting another designer ex- handful of American designers, other retailers. Internally, it’s FASHION clusive, this time with Joseph most recently taking a majority been dubbed Creative Design From tennis whites to rugby stripes, with a few bold hits of neon in Abboud — the man, not the label. stake in Peter Som Inc. Earlier, Studios and a manager is being 4 between, designers delivered a dose of esprit de corps for spring. None of the parties involved Charles Nolan was named cre- sought to oversee it. were willing to discuss the ar- ative director for the Kate Hill The Joseph Abboud label GENERAL rangement, or whether Lord bridge private label line at Lord is owned by JA Apparel Corp., Norman Hsu spent time as a Los Angeles garmento before dropping out & Taylor parent NRDC Equity & Taylor. Nolan is re-creating which Abboud vacated in 2005. of sight and then emerging as a scandal-plagued Democratic fund-raiser. Partners LLC is taking an owner- the label, in what could be a JA Apparel sells Joseph Abboud 1 ship stake in Abboud’s business. precursor to an investment in sportswear and suits to Lord & Warnaco Group Inc. is shuttering its swimwear business, but still will According to sources, Abboud Nolan’s business. Taylor, among other stores. 2 produce swim lines under its licenses with Speedo and Calvin Klein. will be working with Lord & Taylor NRDC also has a stake in Abboud had a non-compete Wal-Mart has been working to clear out poor-selling merchandise and is to create exclusive men’s wear, add- Cynthia Steffe, who is no longer agreement with JA Apparel that ing to the chain’s growing stable associated with the label that expired in July, enabling him to 10 returning to its low-price message and back-to-basics assortments. of collections involving designers. bears her name but will be pro- return to men’s wear with Jaz. Retail stocks surged Tuesday afternoon after the Federal Reserve An announcement is imminent. viding product for Lord & Taylor. He’s lined up deals for manu- 10 Board’s interest rate cut was more than some investors had expected. In July, Abboud reentered the In addition, Bryan Bradley was facturing facilities and licenses men’s wear business after more recently named creative direc- to create the Jaz collection. WEST: After a long quest, Barneys is opening its fi rst San Francisco than two years on the sidelines tor for Bryan by Bryan Bradley, Abboud has been surrounded 11 store under its new owner, expansion-minded investment fund Istithmar. by announcing plans to launch a contemporary line exclusively by controversy ever since he Classifi ed Advertisements...... 12-15 a label called Jaz in fall 2008. for Lord & Taylor launching in lost rights to his name and The collection will be aimed October. Bradley, owner-designer has fought to win them back. To e-mail reporters and editors at WWD, the address is fi rstname. at stores such as Nordstrom, of Tuleh, has no plans to sell a However, he is prohibited from [email protected], using the individual’s name. Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth stake in his business. using his name on any product Avenue, Holt Renfrew and NRDC is forming an entity or marketing materials, though WWD IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ADVANCE MAGAZINE PUBLISHERS INC. COPYRIGHT Harry Rosen, and could have a to manage its growing stable of he is allowed to use his name ©2007 FAIRCHILD FASHION GROUP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. VOLUME 194, NO. 61. WWD (ISSN 0149–5380) is published daily (except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, with one tie-in with Lord & Taylor. designer-contemporary busi- for personal appearances. additional issue in January and November, two additional issues in March, May, June, August and December, and three additional issues in February, April, September and October) by Fairchild Fashion Group, which is a division of Advance Magazine Publishers Inc. PRINCIPAL OFFICE: 750 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017. Shared Services provided by Condé Nast Publications: S. I. Newhouse, Jr., Chairman; Charles H. Townsend, President/CEO; John W. Bellando, Executive Vice President/COO; Debi Chirichella Sabino, Senior Vice President/CFO; Jill Bright, Executive Vice President/Human Resources. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY, and at additional mailing offi ces. Canada Post Publications Mail Kenneth Cole Acquires Le Tigre Agreement No. 40644503. Canadian Goods and Services Tax Registration No. 886549096-RT0001. Canada Post: return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: P.O. Box 503, RPO West Beaver Cre, Rich-Hill, ON L4B 4R6 POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO WOMEN’S WEAR DAILY, P.O. Box 15008, North Hollywood, CA By Julee Greenberg fi cer and has plans to increase the brand beyond 91615–5008. FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS, ADDRESS CHANGES, ADJUSTMENTS, OR BACK ISSUE the $200 million business it was during its heyday INQUIRIES: Please write to WWD, P.O. Box 15008, North Hollywood, CA 91615-5008, call 800-289-0273, or visit www.subnow.com/wd. Please give both new and old addresses as printed on most recent label. First copy of new NEW YORK — Kenneth Cole Productions Inc. has in 1984. subscription will be mailed within four weeks after receipt of order. Address all editorial, business, and production acquired the Le Tigre trademark, its tiger logo, its Le Tigre is now sold in better department and correspondence to WOMEN’S WEAR DAILY, 750 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017. For permissions and reprint requests, portfolio of licenses and other properties associ- specialty stores such as Macy’s, Lord & Taylor and please call 212-630-4274 or fax requests to 212-630-4280. Visit us online at www.wwd.com. To subscribe to other Fairchild magazines on the World Wide Web, visit www.fairchildpub.com. Occasionally, we make our subscriber list ated with the young contemporary brand. Nordstrom. In conjunction with this acquisition, available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services that we believe would interest our readers. If you According to published reports, Cole spent Kenneth Cole has entered into a license agree- do not want to receive these offers and/or information, please advise us at P.O. Box 15008, North Hollywood, CA 91615- $13 million and may make another $12 million in ment with Le Tigre LLC to continue manufacturing 5008 or call 800-289-0273. WOMEN’S WEAR DAILY IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE RETURN OR LOSS OF, payments based on performance targets through and selling sportswear under the Le Tigre label. OR FOR DAMAGE OR ANY OTHER INJURY TO, UNSOLICITED MANUSCRIPTS, UNSOLICITED ART WORK (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, DRAWINGS, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND TRANSPARENCIES), OR ANY OTHER UNSOLICITED next year. Although it began with the basic polo shirt, the Le MATERIALS. THOSE SUBMITTING MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOGRAPHS, ART WORK, OR OTHER MATERIALS FOR The Le Tigre brand, which resurfaced in 2004 Tigre brand now offers a full array of sportswear for CONSIDERATION SHOULD NOT SEND ORIGINALS, UNLESS SPECIFICALLY REQUESTED TO DO SO BY WOMEN’S WEAR after more than a decade’s hiatus, did about $48 women and men. The Le Tigre collection is based DAILY IN WRITING. MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND OTHER MATERIALS SUBMITTED MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A SELF-ADDRESSED STAMPED ENVELOPE. million in wholesale volume last year. Campus at 149 Fifth Avenue here, where it will remain. Sportswear launched the brand in 1977 as an “We believe there is a signifi cant upside for the American alternative to France’s Lacoste label. company, specifi cally through various licensing Le Tigre was brought back to the market by Ryan opportunities as well as through the introduction O’Sullivan, a former Wall Street executive, in 2004. of men’s, women’s and children’s footwear,” Cole In Brief He will continue to stay on as chief executive of- said in a statement.

● AGASSI SUES TARGET: Former tennis star Andre Agassi’s fi rm, Agassi Enterprises Inc., has fi led a lawsuit against Target Corp. in U.S. District Court in Las Vegas, alleging mark infringe- Warnaco Outlines Restructuring ment and unfair competition. Agassi Enterprises said that the retailer, without authorization, used marks on sandals that con- arnaco Group Inc., the $1.8 lion of our revenues,” said Joseph ership of its swimwear manufac- tained the “name, image, likeness and other attributes” associat- Wbillion apparel firm, is ex- Gromek, Warnaco’s president turing operations. ed with its namesake. Agassi Enterprises, which has the right to iting parts of its swimwear and and chief executive offi cer. “The According to Warnaco’s 2006 use and sublicense the Agassi marks, is seeking preliminary and Lejaby divisions to focus its ef- resources of Warnaco should be annual report, the swimwear permanent injunctions, an accounting of profi ts and unspecifi ed forts on its Calvin Klein business. focused on the businesses with group revenues increased while damages. “Target has made every effort to rebrand the merchan- After tough earnings in the largest growth potential.” operating income fell. “As the dise in our stores and on Target.com.,’’ a spokeswoman said. “We its swimwear group last year, With the help of Goldman largest provider of swimwear in will continue to work…to rectify the situation.’’ Warnaco is repositioning the Sachs, Warnaco is also exploring the United States, we are not sat- $390 million division by: strategic alternatives for its Lejaby isfi ed with these results and have ● BEVERLY HILLS DEAL: Two Rodeo, the 129,000-square-foot ● Outsourcing its Mexican businesses, which include Lejaby, identifi ed opportunities to deliver luxury shopping center in Beverly Hills, home to Jimmy Choo, manufacturing operations to a Rasurel and Elixir intimate ap- measurable improvement in the Versace, Tiffany & Co. and Cole Haan stores, has been sold for company controlled by a local parel and swimwear brands. years ahead,” the report said. more than $275 million to Sloane Capital, a real estate consortium business partner. Following the repositioning, The annual report singled in Ireland. Rodeo Owner Corp., a family trust, had owned the cen- ● Selling Catalina, Anne Cole Warnaco Swimwear Group will out Speedo, noting “we will take ter, located at Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, since 2000. and Cole of California, with the consist of only Calvin Klein and advantage of the momentum in Two Rodeo was built by San Francisco developer Douglas Stitzel help of Financo Inc. Speedo, brands which Warnaco be- Speedo as we begin to gear up in the Nineties as a European-style open-air retail thoroughfare. ● Exiting by June 30 all of its lieves have the most growth poten- for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.” private label and Michael Kors and tial. These two brands contributed According to industry sources, ● WEB APPOINTMENT: Luxury e-tailer Net-a-porter.com has Nautica swimwear businesses. about $260 million in volume last Michael Kors Inc., which had appointed Alison Loehnis as vice president of sales and mar- “We are clearly focusing on year, and the company hopes to see its swim collections licensed to keting, a new role at the company. She will report to compa- our Calvin Klein businesses, double-digit growth from them. Warnaco since 2005, is in fi nal ny founder Natalie Massanet. Previously, Loehnis was global which make up almost $1.2 bil- “Speedo is the dominant stages to enter a licensing agree- sales and marketing director for shirtmaker Thomas Pink. In player in the swimwear busi- ment with Swimwear Anywhere her new position, she will oversee sales and marketing and be ness, and with the new man- for both the Michael Kors and responsible for the sales growth of Net-a-porter in existing and agement in place under Helen Michael Michael Kors brands. The new markets. At Pink, Loehnis led strategic brand marketing, McCluskey [who was promoted launch season with Swimwear including advertising, partnerships, public relations, visual HILLDUN in June], we think it has great Anywhere is likely to be cruise merchandising and customer service. Net-a-porter has no plans IS IN FASHION growth potential,” Gromek said. 2009. A Swimwear Anywhere to expand into men’s wear, Loehnis said. “Calvin Klein is the single most spokesman declined comment. FACTORING ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE FINANCING important brand to Warnaco VF Sportswear Inc., a subsid- ● CEO NAMED: I.C. Isaacs & Co. Inc. said last week that interim LETTERS OF CREDIT PURCHASE ORDER FINANCING right now, and we think the swim iary of VF Corp., has signed a chief executive offi cer Robert S. Stec agreed to take the post on a (212) 244-2600 license fi ts well with our Calvin letter of intent with Mainstream noninterim basis by entering into a long-term employment agree- 225 W 35TH STREET, NY NY 10001 Klein underwear and jeans. We Swimsuits Inc. for the licensed ment. He has served as interim ceo for fi ve months. The company

Tim Moore Jeffrey Kapelman Gary Wassner think it can reach $50 million in manufacturing and distribution also said in a statement that it reached an agreement in principle the next few years.” of Nautica brand women’s swim- “for a three-year extension of its Girbaud license through 2014 for (310) 706-4142 1500 ROSECRANS AVE., SUITE 500 Warnaco expects to incur be- suits and cover-ups. both men’s and women’s product. The company believes that this MANHATTAN BEACH, CA 90266 tween $30 million and $32 mil- — Whitney Beckett, with is a key development in its ongoing effort to affect a turnaround Brittany Stapelmann lion in restructuring charges, contributions from of the company and its fi nancial performance.” primarily from transferring own- Marc Karimzadeh

4 WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007

Carolina Herrera Michael Kors

Sport Utility We’ve got spirit, yes we do. We’ve got spirit, how ’bout you? From tennis whites to rugby stripes — with a few bold hits of neon in between — designers delivered a dose of esprit de corps for spring. WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 5 WWD.COM

Diane von Furstenberg Réyes

Milly by Michelle Smith Lacoste PHOTOS BY GIOVANNI GIANNONI, THOMAS IANNACCONE AND ROBERT MITRA GIANNONI, THOMAS IANNACCONE AND ROBERT GIOVANNI PHOTOS BY 6 WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 WWD.COM Arts and Crafts Finding Issy Painterly touches weave their way through London’s LONDON — “Where is Issy?” collections this spring. It was a question Tatler editor in Detmar chief Geordie Greig muttered regu- Blow larly to his staff while hunting for Paul Smith: The artsy crowd Paul Smith his elusive fashion director, the late — from the Bloomsbury group Isabella Blow, he recalled Tuesday to the young David Hockney during a memorial service for Blow. — were Smith’s muses this The answers — not surprisingly — season, and gave his clean and came in all shapes and sizes: She was youthful collection a serious busy buying underwear — 1,000 pounds shot of primary color. Ladies worth — or on a beach in Mauritius channeling Hockney wore wearing a velvet hat or holidaying with the artist’s signature round Alexander McQueen. Over the years, spectacles, sported shrunken Greig gave up and accepted “the agony blazers with contrasting and the ecstasy” of working with Blow. piping, and trotted down Some 800 family, friends and col- the catwalk in cable-knit leagues including Valentino, Bryan cricket sweaters, silk parkas Ferry, Daphne Guinness, Tracey and shirtdresses brighter than a box Emin, David Adjaye, Anna Piaggi, of Crayolas. “It was the Sixties, and I Stella McCartney, Joan Collins, love the way David dressed, with lots Princess Beatrice, the Duchess of of vintage clothes and bold colors,” York, Mario Testino, Prince and said Smith after the show. “They Princess Michael of Kent, Joan were clothes that didn’t cost a lot of Burstein and Tom Parker Bowles, money.” Later in the presentation, gathered at the Guards’ Chapel near Smith rolled out a more feminine, free- Buckingham Palace to remember spirited gal — inspired by Vanessa Bell and Blow, who died on May 7 at age 48. Edith Sitwell — who favors fl ower prints on Ferry did a special arrangement shrunken knits, bow-neck blouses and long, of his song “When She Walks in the fl owing skirts. Smith’s eternal boy-meets- Room” — one of Blow’s favorites girl look may not be for everyone, but so Jonathan — for the service. His son, Otis Ferry, what? He says it’s a hit with retailers, Saunders a fox-hunting enthusiast and one and 70 percent of the collection was of Blow’s godchildren, sounded a Paul already sold by the end of July. mournful hunting horn at the end of Smith the 90-minute ceremony. Nicole Farhi: Farhi was hearing voices There were bagpipes, performances this season — tribal drumbeats, the by the Regimental Band of the Irish whine of a sitar and salty waves Guards — Blow’s father, Sir Evelyn crashing to shore. Her breezy Delves Broughton, had been a member collection was packed with batik of the regiment — and a short speech Philip prints, tie-dyed fabrics, by her husband, Detmar Blow, who re- Treacy tone-on-tone membered falling in love with Isabella embroidery at fi rst sight and proposing almost im- and the odd mediately. He recalled having a dis- sequin, which cussion with her father, who said: “Issy spilled onto long halter dresses, off- isn’t every man’s cup of tea, but you the-shoulder shirtdresses and cotton and she are a match made in heaven.” tunic tops. The collection was pure Greig, Vogue editor in chief Anna resort — but for Joni Mitchell, rather LONDON Wintour and International Herald than Blaine Trump, types. “I used all Tribune fashion critic Suzy Menkes the stuff I’ve been collecting over the spring ’08 all recalled Blow’s talent for talent- years, the antique fabrics and jewelry spotting, her alternative approach to from Africa and India,” said Farhi. living and her larger-than-life ward- This is never the edgiest collection robe: The burkas at fashion shows, London has to offer, but there were a lot of ballgowns at the offi ce and the lob- bankable looks here. ster hat worn while waiting to board Nicole Farhi an easyJet fl ight. Jonathan Saunders: Inspired by the colorful, “Dressing up was about making experimental forms of the Memphis design her job into an event,” said Wintour, movement, Saunders sent out structured wool who worked with Blow at Vogue, and capes, jackets with power shoulders and form- recalled her once wearing a sari that Jasmine fi tting dresses, some of which were adorned with unraveled as she strode out of the Guinness strips of heavy cotton or tutu-like magazine’s New York offi ces and later fabric bunches. The designer’s got caught in the door of her taxi. cleaner silhouettes — such as “Issy had the most wonderful the fl uid, fl oor-length gowns — ability to take even the most basic worked better, and pretty pastels of tasks and turn it into something in pale beige, marshmallow yellow, pinks memorably thrilling. She had no time and blues softened the hard edges. for anything humdrum, banal or mun- PHOTOS BY GIOVANNI GIANNONI GIOVANNI PHOTOS BY dane — to the extent that the task of cleaning her desk every night had begun with a bottle of Perrier water and Chanel No.5,” Wintour said. Menkes called Blow a smart, original more from the shows Bryan Ferry and woman who “wore her erudition light- Katie Turner Basso + Basso + Brooke: Bruno Duro ly,” yet who also had an earthy sense Brooke Basso and Christopher Olowu of humor. “She once told me I was the Brooke took a Roman only person in the world of fashion who holiday with vivid, artsy, didn’t have to suck ass,” said Menkes. Sixties-inspired prints While there may have been a lot splashed across off-the- of laughs, the service had its sober shoulder shirtdresses moments. “All of us failed to say and structured, how much we loved and admired strapless cocktail wear. her — until it was too late for her to hear our sweet words,” said Menkes Duro Olowu: The of Blow, who committed suicide by quirkier looks in swallowing the weed killer paraquat. Duro Olowu’s spring A coroner is due to issue a fi nal re- show — silk trapeze port on her death next month. dresses with blocks of Indeed, Blow never received any contrasting fl oral prints awards or public recognition for her Nicole Farhi and a tiered, silk baby- work, said Greig, adding that all the doll dress — packed posthumous accolades were “too late Giancarlo more punch than his and more than a little shaming.” Giammetti

plain, heavy cotton — Samantha Conti TIM JENKINS PHOTOS BY safari suits. WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 7 WWD.COM Hsu’s Apparel Links: Hazy, but Began in Men’s Wear

Continued from page one tive” or “fashion industry executive,” no one contacted by car and attending to his men’s wear import business. WWD was aware of his business activities since the late Norman Hsu and his son, There were signs, even then, that there was more Eighties. He was accused in California of running a Ponzi Oliver, published in DNR than met the eye to the self-effacing Hong Kong native, scheme in the early Nineties under which he was buying February 28, 1987. whose most distinguishing feature was a nervous twitch. latex gloves for resale, but ended up spending investors’ Associated with a number of men’s sportswear compa- money on himself, according to published reports. Hsu nies that never gained critical mass, including H Two O pleaded no contest to one count of grand theft in 1992, Inc. and Laveno Sportswear, Hsu schmoozed with fash- agreeing to three years in prison and a $10,000 fi ne. ion reporters and carried himself with an assured air. After failing to turn himself in that summer, Hsu Most recently, Hsu allegedly used his fashion back- spent 15 years on the lam, but turned out to be hiding in ground in a sourcing scam, dropping names such as plain sight, fashioning himself as an apparel executive Prada and Gucci to attract millions of dollars from in- and making political connections. A representative for vestors, who are now trying to recoup their funds. He Hsu’s attorney declined comment for this article. also leaned heavily on his fashion background as he Hsu worked his way to the top echelon of fund-rais- worked his way into the inner circles of Democratic ing for Clinton, becoming a member of the “Hillraiser” presidential candidates, hobnobbing at fund-raising group by pledging to raise $100,000 for her presidential parties with people connected to the fashion industry. campaign. He also contributed thousands of dollars to Hsu’s political and fi nancial dealings are now the other Democrats, including Obama and Sens. Dianne subject of state and federal investigations, and he is in Feinstein (D., Calif.), Mark Pryor (D., Ark.) and Frank custody, facing sentencing for an unrelated grand theft Lautenberg (D., N.J.). conviction in California and for skipping out of town In March, Hsu attended a fund-raising event for when he was due to appear in court in Los Angeles. Clinton’s presidential campaign at the Beverly Hills Though not as dramatic as his recent downfall, Hsu home of billionaire financier Ron Burkle, founder

exited his West Coast men’s wear businesses with an and managing director of The Yucaipa Cos. LLC, a pri- DARRYL ESTRINE PHOTO BY equal fl ourish in the Eighties. vate equity fi rm with a stake in Sean John and jeweler “I just remember he disappeared under very mys- Stephen Webster. A spokesman for Burkle, who is a big Woodstock music festival. terious circumstances,” said Michael Saylor, who was Clinton supporter, said the fi nancier has never met Hsu Hsu said the money would be used as short-term fi - divisional merchandise manager at San Lorenzo, Calif.- and does not know him. nancing to manufacture men’s wear apparel in China for based Grodins stores, which bought dress shirts from “He was just one of several hundred people who at- Prada, Gucci, Theory and Hugo Boss, as well as other Hsu. “The wives’ tale was there was a hit on him and tended a fund-raiser,” the spokesman said. brands, which would yield a 40 percent profi t, according that’s why he beat it out of town, and we never heard Clinton’s campaign has said it will return $850,000 to a source close to the investment fi rm, who spoke on from him again.” in contributions from Hsu and his affi liated donors the condition of anonymity. Prior to that, he was seen as a reliable vendor. and tighten its scrutiny of fund-raisers. Many other Investors began investing in Hsu’s apparel business “He seemed like a nice guy,” said Jack Abelson, retail Democratic recipients of Hsu’s campaign donations in 2002 and Sourcing Financial was “in substantial part” consultant and another executive at Grodins. “He deliv- have also returned the money. formed to facilitate investing in the apparel deals, ac- ered, which I guess, when you’re in the retail business, Although big on the fund-raising scene, Hsu does not cording to the source. all the talk and all the slickness and all the charm don’t seem to have had any signifi cant presence in the fashion When Hsu’s name fi rst surfaced in the news last mean anything if you can’t deliver.” world recently. His name or the companies he is associ- month, the investors made unsuccessful attempts to ob- Hsu, who studied computer science at the University ated with did not ring any bells with more than a dozen tain the outstanding investments. The 100 or so inves- of California at Berkeley and received an M.B.A. from industry executives and observers contacted by WWD tors now claim they are owed $40 million from 37 sepa- the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, was over the last week. The companies associated with Hsu rate apparel deals with Hsu’s company. not afraid at the time to talk about his rookie missteps. in campaign fi nance records, such as Components Ltd. “Norman Hsu has an uncanny ability to deceive,” “We started Laveno [in 1982] when the economy was and Cool Planets, could not be located. said Seth Rosenberg, an attorney for the investment on the upside and not too many companies were in the “I never ran into the guy, either on the political cir- fi rm. “It appears that Source Financing Investors has young men’s business,” he told DNR, WWD’s brother cuit or the apparel circuit,” said Paul Charron, former joined Hillary Clinton and many others as his victims.” publication, in 1986. “Still, we made a lot of stupid mis- chief executive offi cer of Liz Claiborne Inc., who is ac- Manhattan District Attorney Robert Morgenthau takes. For instance, we only had one size box. So, when tive politically and has contributed $4,400 to Clinton’s has opened an investigation into Hsu’s dealings with we sent out only a few items, we would fi ll the rest of presidential campaign this year. “I never heard about Source Financial. the box with foam. It wasn’t until we hired someone who the guy until I read about him in the newspaper.” The luxury brands Hsu named as clients said they knew warehousing and shipping that we found it was Charron didn’t see a black eye for the industry from never did business with him. easier to cut the boxes down.” the Hsu scandal. “Prada has never worked with this gentleman and we “He was a really nice guy and self-effacing, and re- “There are people in the industry who have more never intended to work with him,” said Tomaso Galli, ally liked to please people,” said Howard Ruben, a for- than a passing interest in the business of politics,” said group communication and external relations director. mer DNR West Coast editor, who wrote about Hsu in the Charron. “However, 99 percent of the people in this in- “We have no knowledge of him and no interest in work- Eighties. “He ingratiated himself, wanted to be part of dustry…operate on a personal level…they separate poli- ing with him and we have no proposition from him in the sportswear market and wanted to be a big player.” tics from business. It’s not like Hollywood. People will our hands.” Hsu left Laveno in 1984, a year before it went bankrupt. check the credentials and try to understand the source Galli also said Prada does not manufacture its prod- Retail also called to Hsu, who reportedly led a group of funds for some of these people who they don’t know ucts in China and has no intentions of producing there. of investors who tried to buy Grodins for $5 million in intimately. Long term, I don’t think it’s going to have a As for Hsu’s contention that he represented Prada’s 1986, though his bid apparently was too late to be con- lasting impact.” interests, Galli said: “Prada and Gucci happen to be sidered. Early the next year, Hsu was working on a wom- Hsu also used his fashion industry credentials to good names in fashion. I think you can’t control people’s en’s wear division. attract millions of dollars from investors at Source actions and imagination.” After that, though, the trail ran cold. While numerous Financing Investors, a New York investment fi rm run Hugo Boss and Theory executives also said they had no news reports have described him as a “sourcing execu- by Joel Rosenman, one of the creators of the 1969 knowledge of Hsu and had never done business with him.

OFFICE PARTY: Assistant to the jacket throughout, which the Italian label has designed for regional manager Dwight Schrute, the movie. Fashion Scoops aka actor Rainn Wilson, got to “The costume designer [John Dunn] wanted to re-create be head honcho for a brunch the authentic jacket that Bob Dylan wore in so many iconic DANGEROUS LIAISONS: Spanish retailer Zara was forced to Saturday hosted by Coach at the images — the original fabric, color and style,” said Belstaff pull a bag from its shelves Tuesday after complaints that Raffl es L’Ermitage Beverly Hills creative director Manuele Malenotti of Dylan’s signature symbols embroidered on the item resembled swastikas. “As honoring his work for the Mona suede jacket with fl ap pockets, which the company re- soon as it was brought to our attention, we promptly withdrew Foundation. Wilson, mingling created for Blanchett. the bag and apologize for the incident,” said a U.K.-based with “The The movie is being released on Nov. 21, but spokeswoman for the brand, adding the operation likely Offi ce” co-stars those who can’t wait can buy the Belstaff Dylan would be put into effect throughout stores internationally. Jenna Fischer, jacket for $1,630 at such stores as L’Uomo in Across the channel, meanwhile, a skeleton pendant that Rashida Jones New York at the end of this month. was selected by the actress Lou Doillon for La Redoute and Angela sparked so many complaints that it had to be removed from Kinsey, PARK DETAILS: Prime real estate comes at a the catalogue’s Web site, according to a spokeswoman for didn’t let the premium in Manhattan, especially when located the house. The offending item by Corpus Christi depicts a promotion go to centrally and boasting park views. It’s something PHOTO BY MICHAEL CAULFIELD/WIREIMAGE PHOTO BY skeleton wearing a crown. Rashida Jones and his head — he with which executives at IMG Fashion must be Jenna Fischer was too busy all too familiar. The producers of Mercedes-Benz HIP OR HIP REPLACEMENT?: Christopher Kane may have wanted fi guring out how Fashion Week just signed a two-year contract to to wind down after his show Monday, but turning up the to remove chocolate from the Hugo Boss continue staging shows in the tents in Bryant lights at his after party might have been a smart idea. His pants he planned to wear again to parties Park, and details of the deal have now been relatives — perhaps more Berkeley Hotel than BoomBox later that night. Jones was not as sartorially made public. According to the contract, IMG — had a tough time negotiating trendy club Bungalow 8’s challenged: Her white Alberta Ferretti Fashion will pay Bryant Park more than $1.2 atmospheric stairwell, requiring assistance just to reach the number was stain-free. million in rental fees for each of the two show basement bar. Bright young things attending the Dazed & seasons next year, and more than $1.3 million

Confused-hosted fete, including Kelly Osbourne and Kimberly DYLAN STYLE: Cate Blanchett’s portrayal OF THE WEINSTEIN COMPANY PHOTO COURTESY for each fashion week in 2009. And, for the Stewart, politely stepped aside to make way for the convoy. of Bob Dylan in the upcoming fi lm “I’m Cate Blanchett as Bob Dylan February 2010 shows — currently the last Meanwhile, despite their fashion sway, Henry Holland and Not There” will come with its share of in “I’m Not There,” wearing contracted season — the rental fee for the park Agyness Deyn queued outside. fashion. Blanchett will wear a Belstaff a Belstaff jacket. will be close to $1.5 million. 8 WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 WWD.COM In the Mainstream Stella-Adidas Adds Golf for Spring Train Runs Clear Path, By Whitney Beckett Stella McCartney Platform 2 Seeks Footing ADIDAS BY STELLA MCCARTNEY IS TEEING OFF for spring. NEW YORK — The Train has found a niche as a trade show for The German activewear giant and McCartney’s col- interesting pieces from European designers, but its sidekick, laborative line is entering golf, the latest sports cat- Platform 2, is still finding its track in its third season out. egory to be added since its inception. The two shows shared the Terminal Stores on 11th Avenue “I think it is about time that women who play golf from Sunday through Tuesday, but offered different experienc- can now echo what they wear in everyday life on the es as the more established show is still driving attendance. green,” McCartney said in an e-mail. “It’s exciting for Jean-Pierre Mocho, president of Prêt à Porter Paris, the me to bring a bit of an edge to golf.” French parent show that organizes Train and Platform 2, said For the fi rst time, the Adidas-McCartney collabo- buyer traffi c was down 10 percent this year, with traffi c strong ration will present during London Fashion Week on the fi rst day, mixed the second day and quiet the fi nal day when Thursday. Coterie started. “The key here is that buyers come to place Like the other parts of McCartney’s fashion-meets- orders, and most of our exhibitors had very good business,” active brainchild, the golf collection, inspired by men’s Mocho said. traditional tailoring, will emphasize layering and use At Train, there were 101 vendors showing, and next door at high-performance fabrics in subdued dusty colors with Platform 2, there were 53, though vendors there reported slow- metallic accents. er business. The golf component of the spring line — which in- “We are improving Platform 2, but it’s still not perfect,” cludes apparel, accessories and two pairs of golf shoes — Mocho said. wholesales from $17.50 for a glove to $125 for a jacket. Paris-based Nathalie Chaize, whose average price point is In February, the collection will hit about 600 doors, $120, participated in Platform 2 for the second time, and export including Adidas Sports Performance stores, Stella manager Valerio Nappi reported a disappointing experience McCartney boutiques, high-end department stores, se- with buyers. “People from the other show are coming in, but lected sports retailers and — for the fi rst time — golf those buyers may not necessarily buy this type of product: Train stores. It is also available at shopadidas.com. is a more artistic, conceptual show, and Platform 2 is more con- In February 2005, the first Adidas by Stella temporary and commercial,” Nappi said. McCartney collection was launched for running, train- Barcelona-based Jordi Labanda showed at Platform 2 for ing and swimming. Fall 2005 added trail running and the second time. Buying was light, but the company said it was rock climbing, followed by tennis in spring 2006, win- doing well with its illustrated ter sports in fall 2006, yoga and gym this spring and An Adidas graphic T-shirts, which whole- dance this fall. by Stella A Jason sale from $60 to $80. “There’s The line is scheduled to keep expanding through McCartney Matlo not that much traffi c, but people at least 2010, when McCartney’s current contract with golf look. dress. are looking for new European Adidas expires. collections,” said sales rep Ana Yu n e s . That desire for interesting pieces from exclusive European lines is what attracts buyers to Moda Thrives in Altman Venue Train. Arline Sybil owns a show- room in Newton, Mass., that is NEW YORK — Buyers at the Moda Manhattan really display nicely.” open 12 weeks a year and has show this week said they were spending their Reale’s collection wholesales from $44 to an invite-only client list of 500 open-to-buys, which held steady from last year, $169. She said she was doing well with her women. She came to Train, with on dresses, jackets with lantern sleeves and col- dresses, wide-leg pants and cropped jackets, slightly higher open-to-buys, orful pieces. particularly in a black-and-white color story.?? scouting for new designers. “I The trade show took place Sunday through Renee DuMarr said her New York-based line think this is the best show,” Tuesday at the Metropolitan Pavilion and the was enjoying strong traffi c and order writing, Sybil said. “The Train has a lot Altman Building, without its usual sidekicks particularly for its “younger, of European infl uence and in- FAME and AccessoriesTheShow, which all ex- A Kas dress. more contemporary pieces.” teresting pieces with edgy-con- hibit together multiple times a year at the Jacob She reported doing well with temporary style.” K. Javits Convention Center here. sequined pieces and tunic Jewel Town, a clothing store For a spring show, though, exhibitors report- dresses with embellished neck- in Boca Raton, Fla., had higher ed buyers were also requesting more immediate lines, with a focus on immedi- TRADE SHOW TRENDS: open-to-buys going into spring, fi ll-ins. Molly B, a Fall River, Mass.-based prep- ate buys to February. ● Dresses and its co-owners were writ- py line, did well with its dresses, which whole- Jane Popovich and Jennifer ● Jackets ing at Train. Juli Davidson and sale from $85 to $135. Brittany Eldridge, Molly Allen, who own the Pasadena, ● High-waisted pants Tamara Brandt said they “came B’s New England sales rep, noted buyers were Calif., women’s store Flatter, re- and skirts to look for new designers,” “one- “buying very close.” “Everyone coming in to ported their open-to-buys were ● Asymmetrical pieces of-a-kind brands” and “unique write spring is writing for holiday, too,” Eldridge about the same as a year ago, ● Sequins pieces.” said. “People are holding onto their money.” but that they are “a little ner- ● Neckline embellishment Wendy Easterday, vice presi- Kirat Anand, president of contemporary vous about the economy” and ● Prints dent of retail for Santa Barbara, line Kas, said sales broke down to about 25 are holding off on writing. ● Satin Calif.-based Bacara Resort and percent for holiday, 35 percent for cruise They noted dresses, particu- ● Gold Spa, came to Train for the fi rst and 40 percent for spring. He said buyers larly in prints, were popular ● Gray, black and white time to “hunt for things that were writing orders for his print, satin and items on the fl oor. not everyone has.” She noticed sequined dresses, which Buyers and exhibitors prints, sequins and embellish- wholesale for around $80. praised Moda Manhattan’s ment were big for spring, like “This is our fi rst time venue. the kimono print dresses she ordered at the show. in this venue, and it’s “It’s a great venue for Romanian designer Maria Lucia Hohan was pleased with much better than Javits,” us — we just wish it were her fi rst New York show. “All of the Europeans showing here Anand said. “Buyers here a little bigger because we are very happy with this show,” Hohan said. “It’s very crowded are not as lost, and they have people who would like with buyers. Forty percent are ordering, and the rest are just are more directed to the to attend that we couldn’t accommodate,” wondering.” clothing.” said Britton Jones, president and chief ex- Berlin-based Anett Röstel did well with its dramatically Designer Lisa Hunter ecutive offi cer of Business Journals Inc., wide-leg pants in black and white linen, which wholesale reported this was the best which owns Moda. around $200. Although the company received strong orders from trade show ever for her He said Moda was able to squeeze 30 existing customers, it sensed resistance from some new buyers. Palo Alto, Calif.-based percent more square footage out of the “I would expect a little more exploration from retailers,” Röstel line Vian Hunter. She said venue this year, with reconfi guration of said. “But people here seem afraid of prices.” her dresses, which whole- the space, and that buyer attendance kept Vancouver-based Jason Matlo, whose line of special occasion sale around $200, sold pace, growing 27.5 percent from the debut dresses wholesale from $260 to $1,000, enjoyed plentiful writing strongly in classic black last year. during his inaugural show at Train. and prints, and she also “People were really excited about Romania-based Concept Station showed for the fi rst time did well with jackets with this show as a launch last September, at Train, as an extension of showing at Prêt à Porter Paris. lantern sleeves. and exhibitors are really excited to see ‘We were surprised — in a good way — with the traffi c, rela- “I love this venue,” how much this market has grown,” Jones tive to Paris,” said Ovidiu Buta, who was working with Concept said Jennifer Reale, de- said, adding exhibitors wanting to show Station. “There’s been more writing than watching.” signer for her Boston- in September for the spring market tend Concept Station, which wholesales from $30 to upwards of based eponymous line. “It to command a higher price point than ex- $100, did well with its spring separates in black, gray and dusty has a boutiquey feel with Jennifer hibitors for the more immediate markets pastels. “Buyers wanted things that are easy to match, as opposed the hardwood fl oors and Reale that show at Javits. to Paris, where the buying is more coordinated,” Buta said. windows, and your things sportswear. — W.B. — W.B. WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 9 WWD.COM Obituary International Cosmetics & Perfumes Sales Hit $4M in Qtr. Howard Gittis, 73 NEW YORK — International Cosmetics & Perfumes trunks in the ad campaign for the fashion house’s Inc., which markets the Hanae Mori, Creed and Beauty Light Blue Pour Homme fragrance. NEW YORK — Funeral services were held Tuesday for by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy brands in the U.S., said it ex- Gandy arrived amid a crowd of hundreds outside Howard Gittis, vice chairman and chief administrative of- perienced record growth in the fourth quarter ended the store, and spent an hour on La Rinascente’s ground ficer of MacAndrews & Forbes Holdings Inc. and the key ad- June 30, thanks to new products, strength in the luxury fl oor signing bottles of the scent earlier this month. viser to billionaire investor Ronald O. Perelman. segment and wider retail distribution of its brands. In an interview before his La Rinascente appear- Gittis died in his sleep Sunday night at home in Fourth-quarter sales reached $4 million, up more ance, Gandy said starring in Light Blue Pour Homme’s Manhattan, a MacAndrews spokeswoman said. He was 73. than 10 percent from a year ago. Sales of the Beauty ad campaign was among his career highlights. The The cause of death had not been determined at press time. by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy brand were up by double dig- television spot was directed by photographer Mario Gittis played a key role at MacAndrews & Forbes, where its, according to the company, Testino and fi lmed off the island he worked for 22 years, and his relationship with Perelman, while Hanae Mori Parfums sales of Capri earlier this year. the company’s high-profi le chairman and chief executive of- were up by 5 percent and sales of “It was amazing,” said Gandy. fi cer, spanned 30 years. The men worked so closely that their Creed fragrances also grew. BEAUTY BEAT “There was a funny moment two offi ces shared an entire fl oor in MacAndrews & Forbes’ “Creed is becoming half of our when Mario was on a yacht mo- Manhattan headquarters. business in the U.S.,” Emmanuel Saujet, chief execu- tioning to me with his hand and I thought he was try- “Whether it was business, politics, law, family — or help tive offi cer of ICP, said in an interview Friday. ing to tell me to dive in the water. After a couple of with anything — he was the one to see,” Perelman said in eulo- The Creed and Hanae Mori brands each generate dives he approached the boat laughing and said, ‘No gizing Gittis during services at Manhattan’s Central Synagogue. about 46 percent of ICP’s business, while Beauty by David, I meant get on top of the girl.’” “He was my best friend, my brother and my closest adviser.” Clinica Ivo Pitanguy garners about 8 percent of the busi- Some 150 bottles of Light Blue Pour Homme were pur- Gittis began his career as a lawyer in his hometown of ness. Hanae Mori’s distribution base is the largest among chased at La Rinascente during Gandy’s appearance and Philadelphia, where he worked at the prestigious fi rm of the trio of brands, with 270 department store doors. a store executive confi rmed it was one of the summer’s Wolf, Block, Schorr and Solis-Cohen. He rose to become “Sales and revenue results for all brands were best-selling fragrances, after selling 2,000 units in August. chairman. Perelman was one of his clients and he recruit- extraordinarily positive, with some seeing double- — Stephanie Epiro ed Gittis to join his new company in New York. Gittis later digit percentage gains in the period,” Saujet said in became a board member of Revlon, which is owned by a statement. “Strong results in 12 years of operation MacAndrews, as well as a member of Jones Apparel Group’s now position ICP to acquire strategically, and we will Sue Devitt Beauty Taps Kilkenny board, among other companies. be examining opportunities to do that.” He declined He served for 27 years on the board of trustees at Temple to identify specifi c acquisition targets, but added that NEW YORK — Sue Devitt Beauty has named Laurie University in Philadelphia, including six as chairman. The any acquisitions would be accretive to earnings. Kilkenny executive vice president and general manag- student center is named in his honor. Among Gittis’ dona- — Matthew W. Evans er for the firm’s operations worldwide, a new position. tions to the university was a $5 million pledge to create Most recently, Kilkenny worked as area vice president the Ronald O. Perelman Professorship in Entrepreneurial at YSL Beauté. In her new role, Kilkenny will oversee Finance in the Fox School of Business and Management, ac- David Gandy Heats Up La Rinascente day-to-day management of Sue Devitt Beauty in the cording to Temple’s Web site. areas of sales, marketing, finance and operations, and Gittis is survived by four daughters: Caroline Werther, MILAN — Dolce & Gabbana steamed up La report to president Sue Devitt. Previously, Kilkenny Hope Sheft, Marjorie Katz and Emily Lambert Gittis, and Rinascente’s flagship here with an appearance by spent three years with Clarins USA and eight years seven grandchildren. model David Gandy, who is clad in skimpy white swim before that with the Estée Lauder Cos. Inc.

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS COLLECTION CONRAD C 9320 St. Laurent Blvd. Suite 200 Montreal, QC H2N 1N7 Canada Tel: 514.385.9599 1.800.561.4416 conradc.com

NEW YORK TED DZIENA, V.P. SALES RENEE McGOVERN, V.P. MERCHANDISING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT 485 - 7th Ave. Suite 906 New York, NY 10018 Tel: 212.967.8181

METRO NEW YORK MICHAEL MARX Tel: 631.673.6434

SOUTHEAST JEFFREY SCHECHTER Atlanta Apparel Mart Suite #11S335A Tel: 404.577.4717

MID WEST E. PHILIP KAFOURE Tel: 614.882.8867 Cell: 614.496.9239

SOUTHWEST RAY RAK Fashion Center Dallas Showroom #15165 Tel: 214.749.4810 Cell: 214.914.1111 10 WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 WWD.COM

Roberto Cavalli in the center Those are only the beginning of the of an upcoming H&M ad. changes Spencer will make to Life & Style, beginning with next week’s issue. MEMO PAD “I want to reposition it in a different way where we change the fashion and style to CAVALLI’S H&M PARTY: For Roberto Cavalli, a bolder presentation and try to enhance whose one-off collection for Hennes & the credibility of the news,” said Spencer. Mauritz launches Nov. 8 at 200 stores, it’s He will introduce new sections and never too soon to party. departments that emphasize trends for the In July, Cavalli gathered 150 friends week, shopping information and tidbits and a bevy of models at his hilltop home behind celebrity looks. “I’m fascinated in Florence and used his garden, its gilded by the stories behind the fashion,” said birdcages and Otto, his cockatiel, as the Spencer. “Diana Vreeland once said ‘It’s backdrop for his H&M campaign, shot not the clothes they wear, it’s what they by Terry Richardson. In one shot, Cavalli did in the clothes they wear.’” So Life & is surrounded by models in leopard-print Style will incorporate a point of view that silk dresses, corseted and ruffl ed halter “isn’t exactly looking at the clothes, but tops and sequined beaded gowns. Long also what motivates them to wear the and short evening looks and a lot of clothes.” Or, in the case of frequent cover sensuality form the core of the collection subject Britney Spears, not. of 25 women’s pieces, lingerie, matching The changes at Life & Style come as accessories and 20 men’s pieces. former editor Mark Pasetsky, who took over Cavalli also becomes the punch line in a Astrid Muñoz, Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, Anouck equity partnership. last November, departs after a tenure TV commercial, where, late in the night, he Lepère, Ludovico and members of his “No, no, no,” the designer said, marred by a contentious relationship with emerges on his staircase, eliciting cries from family, proved interesting. He also said responding to the rumors. “For sure not staffers and several high-level departures, the crowd below: “Mr. Cavalli! Mr. Cavalli! that, as far as he remembers, he’s never now. Maybe in a couple of years. They have including executive editor Joe Bargmann, who You missed the party!” To which he responds: appeared in his ads before, which might all come to me. I prefer to wait. If I were to left a few weeks ago. Though circulation “How can I miss the party? I am the party.” have added to the challenge. take a partner, it would only be to make a through June averaged 753,092, a 7 His collaboration with H&M only The Cavalli-H&M campaign will make better team — not for some extra money.” percent increase, sources close to the solidifi es his jet-set reputation and the its debut early next month and will feature — David Moin magazine said several issues in August, festive spirit of his designs. “My name 21 images in newspapers, magazines, usually its strongest month for newsstand is very often associated with parties and outdoor advertising and TV. Cavalli is the DOUBLE DUTY: After Bauer Publications gave sales, sold below average — some in entertaining, but it’s not true. I am not such fi rst Italian designer to collaborate with Richard Spencer double duty as editor of the 600,000 range. Spencer, as well as a party person,” Cavalli demurred during H&M, which previously had collections chief of both weeklies In Touch and Life Bauer executives, envision Life & Style’s an interview at his 56th Street offi ces in with Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney and & Style, Spencer decided to send in for circulation to reach a million or more, just New York. He said he’s not the type to be Viktor & Rolf. reinforcements. Spencer on Tuesday made like its bigger sibling In Touch. That said, out every night of the week, though, at 67, With Cavalli’s business, including his his two In Touch executive editors, Dan Bauer will increase the price on both In he’s hardly let up. “It’s better to entertain. I top-priced ready-to-wear, the Just Cavalli Wakeford and Michelle Lee, editors of both Touch and Life & Style by $1 by October, enjoy seeing people have fun.” and Class Cavalli diffusion lines and a In Touch and Life & Style. Wakeford and to $2.99, which could slow newsstand However, working with several models wide range of other products “for 15- to Lee will work alongside Life & Style deputy growth as consumers weigh forking over on the shoot, such as Erin Wasson, Jessica 100-year-olds” approaching $1 billion in editor Mark Coleman and editor Samantha more money for the magazine. “All the Stam, Theodora Richards, Nicolas Malleville, revenues, there’s mounting speculation Meiler. The remaining staffs of Life & Style more reason to improve the product,” said Sean Lennon, Jane Schmitt, Lydia Hearst, about an initial public offering or a private and In Touch will remain separate. Spencer. — Stephanie D. Smith Dress Barn Net Jumps 38% Stocks Soar on Fed Move By Vicki M. Young and Evan Clark “IT WAS DEFINITELY OUR BEST bought two-and-a-half years ago. and really stepped up marketing at year ever.” “Maurices has given us the con- Maurices.” etail stocks surged Tuesday after the Federal Reserve That was Dress Barn Inc. presi- fi dence to look for another acqui- Keith Fulsher, executive vice Rreduced its benchmark interest rate by a half point. dent and chief executive officer sition,” Jaffe told WWD. “With the president and chief merchandising In line with the overall market’s biggest one-day rally in David R. Jaffe raving about the fi s- turmoil in the credit markets, the offi cer of the Dress Barn division, almost fi ve years, many retail shares climbed more than 6 cal 2007 performance of the Dress prices have come down a great credited gains to the chain’s “wide” percent. The top movers included The Bon-Ton Stores Inc., Barn and Maurices chains, high- deal. Some companies priced out of assortment encompassing career, which rose 10.88 percent to close at $25.79; J. Crew Group lighted by a 38 percent jump in net our range now are possible. Right casual, special occasion, jewelry Inc., up 9.34 percent to $46.47, and Cache Inc., climbing earnings in the fourth quarter to now there is absolutely nothing and accessories. He cited knit dress- 8.99 percent to $17.70. $33.6 million, or 48 cents a diluted we’re working on, but there are a es, long tops, A-line silhouettes and Aéropostale Inc. jumped 8.82 percent to $20.60 and share, compared with $24.4 million, lot of things we’re looking at.” dressy special occasion sportswear Saks Inc. rose 8.57 percent to $17.10. Among other top or 35 cents, for fi scal 2006. Fourth- An acquisition must meet “a long among recent bestsellers. gainers were: Macy’s Inc., up 8.31 percent to $32.44; J.C. quarter comparable-store sales rose list of criteria” established by Dress The missy Dress Barn chain ac- Penney Co. Inc., with an increase of 7.42 percent to $68.05; 5 percent, and total sales increased Barn, including being a branded counts for two-thirds of the compa- AnnTaylor Stores Corp., up 7.48 percent to $34.35, and 11 percent to a record $379.9 mil- apparel specialty business, and ny’s volume. Maurices, for juniors, Kohl’s Corp., which jumped 6.66 percent to $59.61. lion from $343.3 million. moderately priced or a little higher, accounts for a third, though it’s Seeking to stabilize the economy amid a deepening For the year, earnings rose 28 Jaffe said. growing faster than Dress Barn. housing slowdown and credit squeeze, the central bank percent to $101.2 million, or $1.45 “We were fortunate that Dress Jaffe did express some concern opted for the half-point cut in the interest rate that banks a share; comp sales increased 5 Barn and Maurices really contin- going forward, noting the missy charge each other for overnight loans — to 4.75 percent percent, and total sales rose 10 per- ued their momentum. We’ve had customer is pulling back a little bit, from 5.25 percent — rather than a reduction of a quarter of cent to a record $1.43 billion. The a pretty good run at both brands while younger customers are out a percentage point. It was the fi rst interest rate decrease company predicts earnings per di- for the last four years. This was there “in full force.” Cooler weath- in four years. luted share for fi scal 2008 of $1.40 our fourth year in a row of posi- er in the past week has encouraged The aggressive move, which could lower borrowing to $1.50, and 3 to 4 percent comp tive comps. As a result, we’ve been some shoppers, Jaffe said, adding costs for consumers, was coupled with a promise by the sales growth. able to get pretty good leverage on he’s optimistic Dress Barn will im- Fed to act as needed to prevent mortgage default losses Now the company is hunting for earnings and increase our operat- prove moving deeper into fall and and possible recession. a chain to buy, after its successful ing margin. We’ve continued our into holiday and spring. The Dow Jones Industrial Average soared 2.51 percent, integration of Maurices, which it [level of] marketing at Dress Barn — D.M. or 335.97 points, to 13,739.39, the S&P Retail Index climbed 4.76 percent, or 22.68 points, to 499.03 and the Nasdaq was up 2.7 percent, or 70 points, to 2,651.66. Meanwhile, August wholesale prices on U.S.-made women’s and girls’ apparel inched up a seasonally adjust- Wal-Mart Apparel Business: Room to Improve ed 0.1 percent compared with July and were up 0.8 percent from a year earlier, according to the Labor Department’s By Sharon Edelson In terms of offering fashion at low prices, Schoewe Producer Price Index released Tuesday. said, “The model of the company is very simple. It’s a Within the category, knit shirt wholesale prices espite positive steps, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is “still low-cost model, so price is going to be a very important jumped 3.9 percent compared with the year-ago period. Dstruggling’’ in the key apparel and home categories, message consistently. The strategy we employed last Dress prices slid 2 percent and underwear was down 2.6 the retail giant’s chief financial officer said Tuesday. year [launching trendy lines such as Metro 7] was not percent. “We told you that during second quarter we had a fl awed. I would tell you that the execution is where we Since more than 90 percent of the apparel sold in the very diffi cult time in home and apparel at Wal-Mart let ourselves down. We did too much too fast, especially U.S. is made abroad, price fl uctuations among U.S. produc- U.S.,” Tom Schoewe, executive vice president and when it came to the trend orientation in apparel. ers are not indicative of broader trends in the market. cfo, said during the Bank of America 37th Annual “When you have 175 million to 200 million people walk- Prices on all U.S.-made goods fell 1.4 percent, the Investment Conference in San Francisco. “We told you ing through your stores, the opportunity to up-sell is there largest drop since October, the Labor Department said. we had to reduce inventory, which moderated earnings and we’ve proven in some areas that this strategy can Excluding the volatile food and energy sectors, wholesale expectations. We’re in very good shape when it comes work,’’ Schoewe said. “Look at electronics. It’s clear that prices rose 0.2 percent, after a 0.1 percent increase in July to inventory for apparel and home. Back-to-school is ev- Wal-Mart is a destination in electronics. What happened in and a 0.3 percent bump up in June. erything we hoped it would be. In apparel, girls’, boys’ apparel is that we got out a little bit ahead of ourselves. We On the textile side, August wholesale prices for synthet- and juniors are now performing better. Having said need to earn the trust of the woman who’s buying that fash- ic fi bers slid 0.3 percent against a year earlier, but yarn that, we’re still struggling with negative traffi c in these ion. It will always be about price. We’ll have an increasing prices were up 2.8 percent. Prices of greige fabrics rose 0.1 categories and have lots of room for improvement.” opportunity to up-sell, we just have to execute better.” percent and fi nished fabric prices increased 1.2 percent. WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 11 WWD.COM WWD West Size Matters: Barneys Launching S.F. Flagship By Joanna Ramey SAN FRANCISCO — Barneys New York has a new fl agship to go to with its new owner. After a long quest, the luxury retailer is launching its fi rst store here today under the ownership of the expansion- minded, Dubai-based investment fund Istithmar. The Northern California store was planned long before Istithmar purchased Barneys from Jones Apparel Group for $942.3 million last month, but the investment fund has already indicated that more store openings are envisioned in the U.S. and possibly overseas. Barneys plans to open a Las Vegas fl ag- ship in several months and one in Scottsdale, Ariz., in 2009. Barneys took its time to fi nd the right location in San Francisco, tapping into some local merchant history. The re- tailer’s sixth full-line store is about 60,000 square feet in a six- fl oor building at Stockton and O’Farrell Streets in downtown’s Union Square. For 60 years until 1974, the tenant was Joseph Magnin, a high-end fashion retailer that, like Barneys, show- cased designers and emerging trends. Magnin himself was the son of the owners of famed I. Magnin in Union Square. “We’ve fi nally found an exciting building,’’ said chief executive offi cer Howard Socol, describing similarities be- tween the San Francisco and New York markets. “We con- sider it a jewel box. It’s a city we can relate to. There are a lot of interesting neighborhoods, people. The city loves art, fashion and music. It’s uptown and downtown.” The new store is another indicator of San Francisco’s ris- ing retail profi le. Workers put fi nishing touches on the grand Bloomingdale’s last year opened a 330,000-square-foot staircase in Barneys, which features whimsical fl agship in the expanded Westfi eld San Francisco Centre. mannequin displays throughout. Other stores that have launched in the Union Square district include Hennes and Mauritz, which pieced together 43,000 square feet from several mom-and-pop sites to open a fl agship and its fi rst store west of Chicago. Forever 21 launched a 27,500-square-foot store in an old bank, while smaller store- fronts of 10,000 square feet and less have been scooped up by retailers such as Zara, Kate Spade, Ted Baker, Thomas Pink, Lucky Brand Jeans and Juicy Couture. One of the latest entrants is Ben Sherman, the British clothier for men and women, which opened across from Barneys. Barneys’ immediate neighbors include Macy’s West Coast fl agship, Macy’s Men’s Store and Crate & Barrel. A few blocks away, the lineup is: Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, San Francisco-based Levi’s and Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy fl agships, and high-end boutiques, such as Marc Jacobs, Escada, Gucci, Prada, Celine, Burberry, Christian Dior, Versace, Hermès, Emporio Armani, Polo, Ferragamo and St. John. The Union Square district is also home to fi ne jewelry stores. Next year the global di- amond giant De Beers is to open on Post Street in an old Brooks Brothers space, and Van Cleef & Arpels is slated for 2008. Tiffany & Co., Cartier and the country’s only Boucheron are nearby, as is local competitor Shreve & Co. and several high-end boutiques. The city is in the fi fth year of an economic rebound after the Internet bubble burst in 2001-’02, hitting hard in nearby Silicon Valley. The subsequent downturn affect- ed retail sales and several San Francisco storefronts shuttered, including an FAO Schwarz, which was in the space that Barneys now occupies. In a ranking of more than 363 metropolitan areas compiled by the U.S. Department of Commerce and released last month, San Francisco was second in per capita in- come, at $55,801, behind the Stamford-Greenwich, Conn., area, at $71,901. By San Francisco standards, the Barneys space is considered sizable and of propor- tions rarely available in Union Square. “One thing retailers have to understand “Local expectations for Barneys are is, if they have extraordinary requirements high,’’ said Judy Collinson, women’s mer- and the desire for a great location here, it’s chandise manager. a bit like fi nding a needle in a haystack,” The store features whimsical arrange- said real estate agent Vikki Johnson, who ments of mannequins — faces made of brokered the Barneys deal 15 years after lamp shades — hanging sculpture and fi rst talking with the retailer. subtle, back-lit murals, including collages The principal design architects, Jeffrey behind cosmetic counters using Japanese Hutchison & Assoc., worked with Barneys’ colored-paper cutouts. team and Gensler architects to maintain The New York-based artist John-Paul the structure’s historic essence. The 1909 Philippe, whose work appears in other neoclassical steel-and-iron-framed build- Barneys, has wrapped an abstract decora- ing’s terra-cotta exterior has been pre- tive metal grillwork around the fi rst-fl oor served and painted a cream color. Its tall perimeter, which looks like a huge chunky and wide windows and sheer white cur- necklace. The metal is also an element of tains help fi ll the high-ceilinged interior the grand staircase connecting the main with light, creating an airy, modern feel. fl oor of fi ne jewelry, handbags and acces- The fl oors are limestone and accented sories to the mezzanine women’s shoe with marble mosaics. department and cosmetics, known as The “We’re fortunate to get our space; it’s Foundation, on the lower level. A second incredible,” said Michael Celestino, exec- staircase links all fl oors except cosmetics. On the fourth level, the women’s Co-op of- utive vice president, director of stores, as DREW ALTIZER PHOTOS BY workers put fi nishing touches on the fl ag- fers contemporary fashion, including Marc by ship. So precious is retail space, he noted, that 10,000 square feet is being rented next Marc Jacobs, Theory, Helmut Lang and Alexander Wang. Men’s wear is on the upper fl oors. door for deliveries, stock and back offi ce operations. Socol declined to estimate sales revenue projections, however, overall apparel Women’s merchandise exclusive to the San Francisco market includes Bottega sales in the city have been robust. Veneta, Rick Owens and Vionnet, sold in the third-fl oor designer collections. Like “We have found in general, retailers are recording some the highest sales volumes, other Barneys, there also is clothing from Prada, Versace, Balenciaga, Lanvin and better than pre-9/11,” said Kazuko Morgan, senior director of retail in San Francisco Givenchy, Martin Margiela, Erdem, Stella McCartney, Narciso Rodriguez, Thakoon for commercial real estate fi rm Cushman Wakefi eld. Morgan said in the last year re- and Proenza Schouler, among others, as well as fashions from Bay Area-natives Derek tail rents in the Union Square area have increased 10 percent. Prices per square foot Lam and the Mulleavy sisters of Rodarte. range from $400 for a prime spot on the square to $170 a few blocks away. Offerings include a Versace quilted sleeveless minidress with a wide, scooped col- Revenues at San Francisco specialty apparel stores grew 10 percent last year to lar and sequin inset across the top, $2,085; a Lanvin leather satchel, $1,890, and a almost $1.1 billion, according to the city controller’s offi ce. Givenchy sheer silk evening jacket top with three slender bow closures in front and “There are a lot of great retailers in a very short distance,’’ Socol said. “But we on the wrists, $1,210, matched with lightweight wool fl ared pants, $695. think we can provide a different experience.” 12 WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 WWD.COM/CLASSIFIEDS

For more career opportunities log on to fashioncareers.com. Call 1.800.423.3314 or e-mail [email protected] to advertise.

Forever 21 is one of the most WEST COAST dynamic and rapidly growing REGIONAL SHOP MANAGER retailers in the United States. We Calvin Klein Better Women’s Sportswear is looking for a talented retail are currently seeking candidates SALES EXECUTIVE professional to join their team as a Regional Shop Manager based out of for our corporate offices based in A fast growing Los Angeles Macy’s USQ. The candidate must have retail experience and an in-depth Los Angeles, Ca. knowledge of merchandising and clientele-based selling. based, better bridge, ladies Apparel Company, seeks an For consideration please email or fax resume w/ salary history Fabric Sourcing Coordinator to: Email [email protected] experienced Sales Executive Fax # 917-464-6925 Send resumes to: to handle and develop specialty [email protected] stores nationally with emphasis Fax: 213-741-5196 in West Coast. A good opportunity to grow with the company Designer and a possibility to handle CALIFORNIA DESIGNERS Send resumes to: the Los Angeles Corporate *Design Director $200-250K+++ [email protected] showroom in the future. Womens Runway Contemporary Fax: 213-741-5196 *Sr Handbag Designer $130K Immediate employment Better Branded Label opportunity. For qualified *Designers (3) $75-130K Assistant Graphic Designer Womens/Knit Runway Contemp Send resume and portfolio to: persons only. [email protected] 212-947-3400 [email protected] Please email your resume to: [email protected]

WWD.COM/CLASSIFIEDS

For more career opportunities log on to fashioncareers.com. Call 1.800.423.3314 or e-mail [email protected] to advertise.

PATTERNS & SAMPLES SMALL PRODUCTION CAD-GRAPHICS-FABRIC PRINTING Fast - Accurate - Reliable U4ia-Photoshp-Illustr: 212 679 6400 Call: 212-217-9750 JOBBER/EXPORTER www.sanodesignservices.com We buy better goods. All categories, including fabrics. Immediate $$. Please call 212-279-1902 PATTERNS, SAMPLES AND PRODUCTION Cut & Sew, Knits/woven. USA & overseas China. Call Brenda @ (718) 358-8278 or Email: [email protected] Investing Partner Wanted Patterns/Samples/Production Due Maternity #1 ranked online maternity Any Style. We do Bridal/Evening website seeks strategic investor. Gowns custom made & wholesale. 415-310-1637 / Al@DueMaternity .com Call: 212-278-0608/646-441-0950

Patterns/Samples/Production 1407 BROADWAY Full Service, Fine Fast Work. SHOWROOMS/OFFICES Any Styles. TREBOR MGMT Phone: 212-560-8998 / 212-560-8999 Bob Forman 212-944-6094 x 314 DESIGNER SALE PATTERNS, SAMPLES, Sarah Arizona Sample & Seconds Sale $10 Coupon PRODUCTIONS sweaters, skirts, dresses All lines, Any styles. Fine Fast Service. FACTORIES Call Sherry 212-719-0622. Monday-Friday, Sept. 24-28th, 10am-6pm Major Woman’s Dress manufacturer Cash,visa, mastercard, sales final No try ons 8th Ave #555 24/7 Attendant looking for domestic & overseas factories PATTERNS, SAMPLES, Beautifully Renovated, light, window with official & current certification for 39 West 28th Street, 11th fl, NYC offices. 1227 - 3400 sq ft Sears, Chicos, Talbots, WRAP & Ethical PRODUCTIONS (Between Broadway & 6th Ave) Owner 212-695-0005 Or 718-387-0500 Audit. To inquire, please contact: Full service shop to the trade. Parking next door, Subway N, R, F [email protected] Fine fast work. 212-869-2699. WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 13

We are currently experiencing rapid growth and seeking the most committed and talented individuals to join our team for the following positions:

Account Executive- Shoes and Accessories Customer Service Representative, Toryburch.com Director, Human Resources Financial Analyst Junior Creative Director Operations Manager, Boutiques Production Manager Regional Manager, Midwest Sales Assistant- Shoes and Accessories For immediate consideration, please forward an updated resume along with your salary history and expectations to: [email protected] . Please include position title in subject line.

MENSWEAR DESIGNER Excellent opportunity in growing, int’l fashion company. Responsible for creation & development of multi- classification collections with merchant team. Strong understanding of branding a must. Research seasonal Do you have a passion for fashion? trend,fabric, silhouette & color direction. Excellent Brown Shoe, the leading consumer-driven footwear company is hiring. sense of color required to create seasonal palettes. We are looking for: Linebuilders, Director of Product Development, Strong print & graphic taste level required. Denim Designers, Account Executive and Account Director. experience a must. Proficient knowledge of fabric, garment construction & sketching a must. Expert in We offer competitive pay, major discounts on shoes, Production Coordinator AT LAST SPORTSWEAR Photoshop and Illustrator. 5-10 yrs design exp. required. career advancement, and much more! NYC-based fast paced Ladies DESIGN ASSISTANT EOE fosters diversity, inclusion, and trust Apparel Importer seeks detailed Please submit resume: oriented person to process orders, Established womens wear import [email protected] You and Brown Shoe just might be the perfect pair! coordinate and communicate w/ company seeks Design Assistant. Apply online: www.brownshoe.com suppliers and handle the work in Candidate must have minimum 3-5 progress. Computer proficiency years experience in womens sports- in Word, Excel, Outlook a must. wear. Must have experience with Experience candidates apply. Walmart, Kohl’s and JCP approval process. Must be a team player Design Please email resume to: [email protected] and highly organized with experience Accessory Designer in Illustrator and Photoshop. Email WOMEN’S OUTERWEAR DESIGNER Established women’s accessory / appa- FASHION CAREER OPPORTUNITIES or fax resumes to (attn: Maggie): Leading men’s outerwear firm is expanding into women’s outerwear. rel Co. seeks designer for full time po- Ileen Raskin, Apparel 212-213-6381 [email protected] or 212-382-1469 Seeking talented designer with outerwear experience. Must be capable sition. Nancy Bottali, Accessories 212-213-6386 Patternmaker Must be self-starter with good commu- Ed Kret, Textiles/Apparel 212-213-6384 of development from concept to smp. Strong color sense, creativity, nication & organizational skills . Du- 1st thru Production ties include first concept, trend [email protected] Downtown Los Angeles based. Must have sketch ability and excellent knowledge of fabric. CAD exp. a must. min. 6 years exp. w/better contemporary PRODUCT MANAGER boards, fabric /trim research & follow www.raskinexecsearch.com Women’s apparel company seeking tal- Email resume to: [email protected] up with HK office. dresses & tops, and be able to work in fast paced environment. 5 years exp. in ented, aggressive, experienced Prod- Photoshop / Illustrator req’d. uct Manager to handle Merchandising Please send resume w salary require- production fitting required. All paper patterns - no software. Please list salary and Production for private label ac- Accts. Receivable/Collections Assistant Tech Designer ments to: counts. A successful candidate re- Infant apparel co. seeking organized & [email protected] history in cover page. Fax or E-mail to: Seeking detail oriented, computer literate 213-239-8875 / [email protected] quires a solid understanding of the individual w/min. 5 years experience & motivated asst tech designer w/strong GRAPHIC/BELT DESIGNER 7th Avenue Accessories Company production process from development knowledge of charge-backs. Fax resume communication skills. Proficiency in to shipment, and must have experi- & salary requirements to: 212-944-9254 Illustrator is a must. Excellent benefits. seeks Graphic/Belt Designers. Must be fashion driven, detail oriented, organ- ence w/ retail accounts. Please fax re- Email resume to: [email protected] DESIGN ASSISTANT PATTERNMAKER sume to Kim’s attention: 212-944-2134 Admin Since 1967 ized, professional, proficient in MAC, Bridge Sportswear Co. seeks Freelance ANNA SUI Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Must Patternmaker with expertise in tailored W-I-N-S-T-O-N ASSOCIATE DESIGNER 3+ yrs experience. Strong creative, con- have comprehensive sketching ability jackets/pants. 1st to production patterns. RECEPTIONIST Large public company seeks an experi- ceptual and practical design skills req’d. and 2- 4 years experience. We offer Must have access to Samplemakers. Dress company looking for exp’d APPAREL STAFFING enced Associate Designer for fast competitive salary and benefits. DESIGN * SALES * MERCH Illustrator, Photoshop & technical knowl- Fax: 212-996-3226 E-mail: [email protected] receptionist. The ideal candidate will paced, high energy private label edge of garment construction a must. Fax or e-mail resume with salary have a pleasant voice & demeanor who ADMIN * TECH * PRODUCTION Womenswear division. Candidate must (212)557-5000 F: (212) 986-8437 Fax resume & salary req.: 212-768-2358 requirements in confidence to: works well under pressure. Duties will be creative, organized, and able to include answering phones, greeting multi-task. Photoshop/ Illustrator a 212.947.4439 or PRODUCT DESIGNER $45-50K customers, handling incoming/ outgoing ASSISTANT DESIGNER must. Excellent benefits. [email protected] Gifts/Home. 1-2 yrs Exp. packages, ordering supplies; Computer Established, fast-paced private label company Fax resume to: 212-556-5429 Design Assistant Westchester Loc. Great Benefits skills and MS-Office a must. Email Call Laurie 212-947-3399 resumes and salary requirements in is looking for an Assistant level Designer Large private label outerwear and suit HEAD PATTERNMAKER w/ a degree in Fashion Design. Must be Billing/EDI mfr seeks a technical design asst. with or e-mail [email protected] confidence to: able to work independently, possess great min. 2 years exp. Must have strong KARLYN FASHION RECRUITERS [email protected] Contemporary garment manu.requires skills in Illustrator, an ability to create ANNA SUI follow through skills and have the ability a billing & EDI person. One yr exp. req 5+ yrs experience in Women’s Designer to flat sketch & illustrate. The ideal tech packages, and oversee fabric Retail FAX: 212-382-3623 library. Should be well organized and Sportswear. Draping, fitting, tech accura- candidate will have experience in both cy from sample to production prototype. wovens and knits, with focus on detail oriented. Overseas travel may be Product Development BUYER/Apparel required. Great opportunity. Please Organizational & computer skills a must. print/embroidery development. Proficiency in Bookkeeper-Full Charge Fax resume & salary req: 212-768-2358 Major tailored clothing co. seeks energetic Retailer of ladies’ upscale off price cloth- Illustrator and Photoshop required. Midtown Ladies sportswear mfgr/ im- Fax your resume: 212-643-0593 dedicated professional who is creative, ing, shoes, and accessories is offering a Fax Resume Attn: JN (212) 302-1856 porter. Must be computer literate, LC organized, and a team player. Tailoring great opportunity in Buying / Merchan- experience and well versed in dealing * JOBS *JOBS *JOBS * and/or technical experience a plus. 2-3 dising. Must commute daily to Mineola. with chargebacks. Lucrative opportu- Designer *Analyst Planner Walmart-Target 70K++ years experience in woven product req’d. Please Fax or E-mail your resumes to: nity. Fax in confidence attn Nicholas: *Artist Girls- Boys-Jrs. - Mens- $HI Strong computer & communication skills 1-800-972-3313 / [email protected] 212-921-8369 Hat & Socks Freelance *Costing Mgr- Import- Ladies Sportswear a must. Please E-mail all resumes to: Children’s wear co. seeks freelance *Designer-Assist-Assoc Boy-Girl-Jr. [email protected] designers for hat, cap and socks for *Designer Boys N-I-Playwear $HI Sales Assistant 0 to 5 years. Please email resume to: *Fabric Technician -Travel Overseas $HI Kidrobot (creator/retailer ltd edition CAREER [email protected] *IT Specialist toys/apparel) seeks sales asst to sup- ASSISTANT DESIGNER *Quality control bet missy apl-import trvl $$$ Production Assistant port whls accnt exec. 2-3 yrs exp, Hot junior denim brand seeking assistant OPPORTUNITIES *Office Manager - All Areas Menswear Import Company looking strong Excel skills a must. designer. Qualified candidates have a Tumi, Inc. the design leader in high- *Patternmaker - - Gerber or Lectra- $HI for dedicated & detail oriented produc- Email cover letter & resume to end travel and business accessories, *Production MGR-Assist-Coordinators-$HI tion assistant. 3+ yrs experience req. [email protected] minimum of 2 years exp, are skilled in Design Illustrator and Mac proficient. Must be has several outstanding career oppor- *Production Coords or Asst-Biling Chinese Fax resume to: 212-840-1626 organized and detail oriented. E-mail tunities available. We are seeking a Raider Jean Company *Technical Designers & Assistants $HI resume to: [email protected] Designer, Product Developer, Product Call B. Murphy(212)643-8090; fax 643-8127 Showroom Coordinator Manager and Planner/Analyst. For Assistant Designer JPR is seeking a F/T highly energetic RECEPTIONIST more information, please visit our Ca- Established Young Men’s and Boy’s Production Coordinator individual to join our NY team. Duties reers Page at www.tumi.com. We are NYC based, high end women’s fashion & Seeking an energetic friendly person Sportswear Company seeks a design KNITWEAR DESIGNER and Responsibilities: Answer phones, an Equal Oppotunity Exployer. assistant for the New York office. Better sweater/knit mfg seeks exp. accessories company seeks detail oriented, maintain showroom and provide sales to oversee front desk, assist company highly organized individual w/ minimum president and handle multi line phone Minimum 3-5 yrs. garment experience, Creative Designer to join winning support for our Sales Team. Must be TUMI, INC. proficient in Adobe Illustrator & team. Must be technical & detail orient- 3-5 years exp in prod. coord. Responsi- able to multi task and posses computer system. Must be professional in all as- bilities include placing & tracking orders pects including appearance, demeanor Photoshop. Responsibilities include ed. Please fax resume (in conf) to: skills. Fax resumes to: 212-398-2827 or generating initial computer illustrated 212-221-8135 ATTN: KD w/ overseas & domestic factories, E-mail: [email protected] and dependability. Assist with office Controller budgeting, scheduling, costing & duties as needed. Computer skills a style sketches, CAD’s, and completing Seventh Avenue Luxury Designer seeks technical production packages. Candi- sourcing. Excellent comm. & follow up must. Email or fax resumes to: Merchandiser skills a must. Computer skills:MS Word, [email protected]/ (212)-354-4418 a Controller. This position will report date must be organized and able to directly to the CFO. Candidates must follow directions. Mandarin speaking Senior merchandiser with min. 5 years Quickbooks, Excel. Pay:$45-$55K. STORE MGR/RETAIL-WHOLESALE have 3-5 years of public accounting ex- person a plus. Please email resume to experience needed for private label Email:[email protected] SALES/MD/PROD & DESIGN ASSISTANT DESIGNER perience and 7-10 years of soft- Indra at: [email protected] mfg. Oversee merchandising from Large public company seeks an Assis- goods/wholesale experience. Previous design devel. to shipping. Ability to Cashmere and Apparel company tant Designer for fast paced, high retail experience preferred. CPA and comm with design team, retail buyers, Production Coord to $75K. Min 3-5 yrs seeks dedicated team player. energy private label Womenswear divi- excellent Excel modeling skills re- and overseas office. Strong fabric and exp in production scheduling from Salary commensurate with ability. sion. Candidate must have excellent quired. Salary commensurate with ex- Executive Assistant garment construction knowl. Domestic inception to completion. P.O.’s, email flat sketching skills & be proficient in perience. Complete benefits package Detailed, organized person needed for and overseas travel required. Great to Far East factories. Take charge PLEASE E-MAIL RESUME TO: Photoshop/Illustrator. Excellent benefits. offered. Please email resumes to: established textile co. Mandarin a plus. salary and growth potential. Please problem solver. Fast paced. Secaucus, [email protected] Fax resume to: 212-556-5429 [email protected] Top salary $$$. Fax resume: 212-563-6462 Fax your resume: 212-643-0593 NJ. Email: [email protected] 14 WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007

VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCTION Looking for an exciting opportunity? Seventh Avenue Luxury Designer We, at Elie Tahari, are looking for professionals of all levels to join This individual will develop, manage and enforce a Time and Action calendar. our growing Retail Division. We are Will also be responsible for implementing sourcing and production procedures in search of dynamic, fashion sav- and processes. Candidates must have the following requirements: 10 vy, passionate and hard working years previous production experience in women’s luxury apparel, prior experience candidates to work in our store lo- cations throughout the United with currency issues related to foreign fabric purchasing, a strong understanding States. Full & P/T positions are of garment construction, fabric and production costing, "best practice" available. We offer a competitive knowledge and demonstrated experience in sourcing, computer proficiency benefits package for full time pro- (Excel) and prior experience with a small to mid-size company. A Bachelor’s fessionals. Candidates must be Degree and strong quantitative skills are needed as well. Off-shore sourc- qualified & have a high taste level. General requirements: ing experience preferred. Full benefits are offered. •For managers- 5-7 years store Please email resumes to: [email protected] management experience •For assistant managers - 1-2 years sales management & selling •For sales associates- 1-2 years sales experience in retail Freelance & Perm Jobs Available Please e-mail resumes to: [email protected] or fax Immediately! to: 212-763-2275. EOE TAYLOR HODSON Freelance Patternmakers Freelance CAD Designers Tech Designers- (freelance & perm opps) Graphic Artists- (freelance) Assistants - Design, Merch, Prod, Tech (freelance to perm) Send resumes ASAP!!! Email: [email protected] FIT MODEL You may not know you can be a fit model! We are looking for fit models for bras! So, if you are a DD-DDD or larger, we are interested in meeting you. Appointments are being made for: SCOOP "The Ultimate Closet" is rapidly growing!! 10/04/07 District Manager, 5-7 yrs exp Assistant Buyer, 1+ yrs exp Between 3:00 & 6:00 p.m. Staff Accountant, 3 yrs exp Store Managers, 2+ yrs exp NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY FT/PT Sales Associates, 1+ yrs exp [email protected] Please email resume to [email protected] SPEC TECH Long Island Manufacturer is seeking a Spec. Tech. Must have sewing, patternmaking/ grading knowledge & know garment construction. Excel, and Word, knowledge a plus. Email cover letter & resume to: [email protected]

TECHNICAL DESIGNERS *Sr TD Mgr Better Mkt/Jeans $125-150K *Sr TD-Suits/Jackets Better Mkt $80-90K *TD-Wovens $65K *Spec Techs $38-52K *TD’s Freelance Wovens/Knits $30-50/hr [email protected] 212-947-3400 Titanium Marketing Inc. For our newly acquired Ron Chereskin watch license, we are seeking: •Experienced Salesperson •Sales Assistant: To support Salesper- son in accessory business. Must be in- dependent, know EDI + exp, meticu- lous & detail oriented for good follow- up. Busy showroom office. Process minimum 50 orders a week. •EDI Data Entry Clerk: Must be dili- gent & detailed to handle EDI orders & invoicing. Must type accurately & quickly, 45-60 wpm. Exp necessary. Will not train. Qualified persons only. Fax resume to: 212-889-8863 or email: [email protected] YOUNIQUE CAD Artist / Graphic Textile & Technical Designers We have openings for creative, talented & self motivated individuals for our Jr. SWEATERS Sportswear division. *Prod’n Coord-Womens Bet Japan Mkt $65-75K Seeking a CAD Artist / Graphic Textile *TD-Better Contemporary $60-75K Tech Designers designer with knowledge of print repeats [email protected] 212-947-3400 & sketching; Photoshop & illustrator a Assoc Sweater 3+yrs exp 55K must. Min of 5 yrs exp. Assist Knits 2+yrs exp 45K Opening for a Technical Designer for Tailor/Seamstress/Fitter Entry Level to 28K our sweater, cut / sew knits division. L.I. custom uniforms mfr seeks indiv. Will be responsible for tech packs, to do measuring/alterations on & off E-Mail [email protected] sketching & specs. Photoshop, Excel site, F/T. Good salary - benefits. Must KARLYN FASHION RECRUITERS & illustrator a must. Min of 5 yrs exp. speak English. Out of town travel req’d. Email resumes to: Fax: 516-483-9439 or E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]

TECH DESIGNER Fast paced women’s apparel importer w/great benefits seeks experienced, responsible candidates. excel experts. Must work well under pressure w/sense of urgency. patt making exp., grading, strong communication skill in fit correc- tions and technical sketches. Private label experience a plus. PLEASE FAX OR EMAIL RESUME TO: 212-302-3872 or [email protected] WWD, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2007 15

ASSISTANT DESIGNER Seeking Assistant Designer. Must have previous experience with Photoshop and Illustrator. TECHNICAL DESIGNER Seeking Technical Designer for imports & knits with strong expe- rience in garment construction, grading, fitting & tech packets. ASSISTANT KNIT DESIGNER ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE - OUTERWEAR Seeking Assistant Knit Designer with experience in Photoshop & Illustrator. Knowledgeable of knit construction is mandatory. We are currently experiencing rapid growth are seeking the Our product is selling. Are you? We are looking to expand most committed and talented individuals to join our team. our sales team in our Men’s Division and Ladies’ Division. We PLEASE FAX OR EMAIL RESUMES TO: need the right mix of aggressive salesmanship, personality 212-840-0149 or [email protected] VICE PRESIDENT, SALES and the drive to succeed, to work with national retailers. You READY-TO-WEAR must have solid communication skills and a minimum 5 Experience should include but is not limited to: years outerwear/activewear wholesale sales. We are a pro- •At least 5-7 years experience in wholesale sales for RTW in fessional team environment and are looking for long-term a managerial role. members to drive business and to grow with us. •Strong financial skills in running multiple door RTW business Please email resumes to [email protected] for Major Accounts. •Leadership & development of team including A/E’s, Assistants & Merchandise Coordinators. •Coordination with design of line planning and merchandising. •Ability to strategize, quickly react & execute, while managing business independently. •Attention to detail, strong communication skills, self- motivated & analytical thinking required. ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE - Handbags Established 7th Ave. Accessories Co. seeks a candidate with a For immediate consideration, please forward an updated successful track record of driving sales with Major Specialty resume along with your salary history and expectations to: Stores. Ideal candidate will be Detail Oriented, Organized, [email protected] . Please include position title Motivated Individual w/ Strong Computer Skills, Responsible in subject line. for Sales Tracking, Maintaining appropriate stock levels and Building Relationships w/ Retail Partners. We offer competitive ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE SALES EXECUTIVE- NY salary and benefits. Fastest Growing Junior Sportswear China based Button & Trim Exporter Fax or email resume w/ salary requirements in confidence line seeks experienced, aggressive and seeks aggressive sales executive w/ at motivated account executive for show- least 1 year experience to build and 212.947.4439 or [email protected] room sales. Should have dynamic per- grow new accounts for the company. sonality and be able to work in a fast Located in Midtown. Send resumes to: paced team environment. Salary and [email protected] commission based upon experience. Please fax resumes to 212-921-9038 or email [email protected] SALES Multi branded hosiery distributor is looking for an experienced sales pro to ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE sell to mass, mid tier, sporting goods PLUGG, a leading Juniors/ Girls sports- and off price retailers. This candidate wear company seeks an experienced should have established relationships Luxury Retail sales representative with already est’d and proven record of success. mid-tier store (i.e. Kohl’s, JC Penney, Fax or email resume to: 212-840-0969 Sales Manager THOMAS PINK Sears…) contacts and positive relation- or [email protected] New York based luxury brand seeks a ships. Minimum 5 years experience. highly motivated, energetic and sales Salary based on experience. driven professional for retail store in Soho. Regional Operation E-mail resume to [email protected] Suitable candidates must have strong Sales Manager-East Coast Sales Rep selling skills, a passion for fashion and a Volume oriented NY based Ladies’/Girls’ minimum of 3 years experience in an up- Ideal candidate will be an absolute Importer seeks motivated office Sales- scale women’s retail environment. Appli- person w/est’d. accts. E-mail resumes to: cants with a clientele book are preferred. sales leader with solid retail exp, We offer a competitive salary and a gen- [email protected] erous benefits package. strong operational and organization Please fax resume to: (212) 966-7506 skills, ability to clearly communicate TOP NOTCH SALES company directives, branding, & ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Well-established updated missy better Previous exp. working w/top tiered NY sweater company seeks an aggressive merchandising. Requires a strong Dept. Stores & internet. Fashion savvy and highly motivated individual to ex- with the knowledge of contemporary pend w/ Dept. & Chain Stores. E-mail drive for excellence in sales mgmt intimate & swimwear markets. Exist- resume: to: [email protected] or & productivity. Highly motivated ing buyer relationships essential. Must call for Charman at : 212-302-0444 be a multi tasker w/excellent commu- entrepreneurs with proven track record nication & computer skills. Team play- er with strong sales analysis skills. NY encouraged to apply. tradeshows and regional travel required . VP Sales E-mail: [email protected] Major NY apparel producer with Far Employees working for Thomas East production facility seeks top rated Pink, enjoy solid career growth Kid’s Wear & Layette SALES EXECUTIVE SALES $$$$$$ salesperson to interact with buyers & Seeking Regional Sales Reps calling on Woven private label import co. seeks Better Women’s Sportswear Mfr Sr. mgmt. of major retailers. Must opportunities & comprehensive freelance sales person with relations in Addition to staff. Must have Specialty & Dept. Stores for fast growing have solid industry relationships for benefits incl med/dental, 401k, mfr. Great prices; Great commissions. major dept. stores. Must be able to do Following with Specialty Stores launch of a significant label. Generous production development and private Nationwide. $75K + Bonus Call Shelly at: 212-947-6268 or E-mail: compensation package. Opportunity paid vacation, competitive salaries, [email protected] label with accounts. Great opportunity Call Laurie 212-947-3399 of a lifetime. E-mail detailed resume: for the right person. or e-mail [email protected] [email protected] & generous merch discount. Pls send resume to: KARLYN FASHION RECRUITERS Please submit resume with [email protected] SALES EXECUTIVE salary requirements to: — BOTTOMS — [email protected] Established Jr’s and Large Size Denim IN THE SUBJECT LINE INCL & Non-Denim Co. seek an experienced, organized and self-motivated sales (REG SALES MGR-EAST). executive. Must have strong well- established contacts w/ National chains, (No Telephone Calls). Dept. Stores and specialty chains. Great opportunity, for the right person. EOE M/F/D/V Please email resumes to: [email protected] or fax to: 917-591-6212. bVWaWa\]bg]c`[]bVS`¸a NPUIFSIPPE TODAY’S MODERN MOM HAS REDEFINED MOTHERHOOD AND CREATED AN ENTIRELY NEW AND VIBRANT MARKETPLACE.

LIFE. STYLE. FAMILY.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS NEW GENERATION OF MOMS, contact Carolyn Kremins, VP/Publisher (212) 286-3833 or [email protected]