A new trend is emerging that makes purchasing designer handbags a thing of the past. The trend for indie designer bags is so strong that even the biggest names are quickly producing some of their new collections with discretely placed brand names and logos.

This is why Canadian born emerging designer Theologia Karahalios chased her dream into reality with the launch of her handbag line Hellena Archais, in April 2009. From the beginning, following each season’s trend in terms of style, materials and accessories was not a consideration. It was the shortage of one-of-a-kind, vintage inspired style handbags that made her determined to create something that had not been done before. She wanted to bring back to life the ancient world and its forgotten history.

What makes these handbags special is the unique coins that are attached which represent a variety of ancient civilization - Greek, Mayan, and Egyptian. These special pieces are replicas of museum artifacts.

She infuses two worlds with her high-end, high-quality design originals in supple leather, and her Greek background inspires her brand focus. Hellena Archais displays artisan craftsmanship using the finest-quality leathers and hides for her handbag collection.

The Hellena Archais handbag collection is the epitome of classic and timeless beauty. It is reserved for women who appreciate unique pieces of art and not mass produced bags that can be found at any retail store. Each bag is handmade at the time of order and is covered by 100% money back guarantee. Currently all handbags are 40% off. You can view the full collection and shop at the designers website WWW.HELLENARCHAIS.COM.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Following the Brownie motto of ‘Be Prepared’, the Unique Autumn Winter 2010 outerwear has been designed to be protective and functional, whilst luxurious fake furs and delicate chiffons evoke a woodland wildlife feel.

“The inspiration was looking at two elements. One was going camping in the woods and then once you are in the woods it almost goes into a twisted Narnia type environment”, commented Jacqui Markham, Topshop Joint Head of Design. “There’s 30 designers in the team and they just bring to the table all their different ideas, and we try and create a bit of a theme, a bit of a hook, that we can tailor the collection around.”

Defending against the elements, saddle brown battered leather parkas are cosy with quilted linings and shrunken waxed cotton jackets in uniform blue and khaki brown appear in a swing shape and cropped gilet. Duffle coats and trenches keep out the cold with reversed sheepskin linings on the outside of the body and voluminous wool scarves and cable knit socks offering an extra layer of warmth. Berry coloured corduroy tailoring with leather panelling gives a modern twist on traditional countrywear, whilst loden green wools in a boxy jacket, pencil skirt and short shorts look more rugged and are adorned with Girl Guide inspired award badges. Old fashioned pyjama-esque striped slouchy cotton trousers and shirts continue the idea of a camping trip in the wilderness.

Practical details feature throughout; skirts have suspender strapping, belts have release buckles and sheepskin bags secured by harnesses have old-fashioned binoculars and torches as charms. Canvas and leather lace-up boots are sturdy with multiple buckles and detachable ankle covers and mini pouches.

Offsetting the utility/survival feel of the collection, prints and fabrics are heavily influenced by woodland creatures and nature. The sumptuous teddy bear fur coat is reminiscent of a grizzly bear, fluffy mittens are paw-like, and shoe boots are adorned with tufts of sheepskin. In contrast, soft chiffon blouses and dresses with hand-crafted crochet and lace panels conjure up an image of a warped fantasy world full of woodland nymphs and fairies. Mushrooms, clovers and twigs are scattered across jersey vests whilst wild wolves, deers, rabbits and owls hide within the camouflage ‘Woodland print’ but stand out in their full glory as headdresses.

Karen Bonser, Topshop Head of Design, said, “To be at London Fashion Week alongside so many credible and talented designers, it’s a great thing for Topshop to be able to do and to support British fashion.”

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Base London, men’s footwear brand, has launched a new young men’s fashion brand Fish ‘N’ Chips by Base London for Spring Summer 2010. A range of graphic heavy, printed canvas shoes and boots, inspired by music and modern youth culture, make for a new move into a different sector of the footwear market by Base London.

The Fish ‘N’ Chips by Base London Summer 2010 collection offers a veritable feast of footwear courses with geometric, floral and 80s influenced prints all on the menu. Served up as a selection of lace ups, slip ons, and lightweight boots, all on an original rubber sole and displaying a distinct gingham tablecloth printed inner sock. The Fish ‘N’ Chips collection is available to buy f r o m the Base London online shoe shop.

The Spring Summer 2010 collection launches with a selection of styles, aptly named after the courses found on the menu in the nation’s traditional and favourite take away. Cod, a lace up canvas style, with a tough durable rubber sole is complemented neatly by Wrapped, f r o m the Chips range, a casual wing tip canvas shoe displaying intricate brogue detailing and a fresh colour palette.

Highlight pieces f r o m the Fish ‘N’ Chips collection comes in the form of Peas, revealing a wide and varied colourings as well as 80’s inspired graphic prints on a classic college pump style silhouette complete with a leather toe cap and Wallys, a classic lightweight canvas deck shoe, bold in colour and strikingly detailed.

Other styles for Spring Summer 2010 include Scampi, a low profile lace up shoe and f r o m the Sauces range, Ketchup, a versatile trend led lo-boot style.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Naartjie Kids, the original name in fun baby clothes and children’s clothing sizes 0 - 10, showcases its Essentials, which are basic tops and bottoms designed to be easily paired with each season’s collections or worn separately. Naartjie Kids Essentials also include leggings and accessories that are made from natural fabrics, using Naartjie’s non-toxic garment dye process.

“Naartjie Kids seasonal collections offer Essentials that are designed to complement the collections but that can last until your child outgrows them,” said Joe Norwood, director of marketing, Naartjie USA. “Our Essentials are always a great value and are favored by many of our loyal customers.”

The Naartjie Kids Spring Essentials low everyday price is $10 per piece. Naartjie Kids Essentials are available in-store, for only $10 per piece, when purchasing two or more. Spring Essentials are regularly $12.95 - $14.95 per piece.

Naartjie Kids’ designs, colors, prints, and styles represent a truly unique synthesis of European fashion trends with western casual lifestyle. Featuring a dominant focus on natural fabrics that are garment-dyed, pre-washed and pre-shrunk for easy wear, low maintenance and comfort, Naartjie Kids uses a garment dye process that results in a more vibrant color and softer clothing and accessories for precious little ones.

The ultimate in mix and match, Naartjie Kids introduces new colors, prints and styles within a grouping to allow customers to mix and match across the entire assortment. In addition, shoppers can mix and match between Naartjie Kids seasonal collections, which showcase the freshest and broadest color assortment in the industry, distinctive detailing, mixing of fabrics, appliqués and embroidery details. Always “Kid-Friendly” design concepts made primarily of natural fabrics that feature weight-right fabrications for maximum comfort and easy care. Each item is designed and constructed for easy-wear comfort, whether the garment is dressed up or dressed down.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Topman Design has announced that it will be showcasing its Autumn/Winter 2010 collection as a solo show in February’s London Fashion Week.

Topman Design has previously displayed new collections as part of the increasingly successful MAN event which Topman set up alongside Fashion East 10 seasons ago. This will be the first time since MAN’s conception in 2005 that Topman Design has not shown as part of the initiative.

Gordon Richardson, Design Director at Topman said: “Our decision to show separately from MAN this season has been welcomed by both the MAN and the Menswear Panel who collectively agree that it is the right time for us. We have established a consistent design ethic and have a good following which gives us the confidence we need to move on and allow MAN to continue to nurture new young talent which is, after all, its purpose.”

The decision to progress Topman Design out of MAN comes on the 5th anniversary of the showcase which aims to source and nurture young menswear talent. Both Topman Design and MAN will be part of the second official full day scheduled for London Fashion Week menswear which has received great acclaim in putting menswear firmly back on the British map.

Charlie Porter, deputy editor of Fantastic Man magazine and Menswear Panel member, commented: “It’s so exciting that Topman Design has grown to the position where it deserves its own show. By teaming up with MAN, it proved that menswear should have a slot on the London Fashion Week schedule. Now that we have a whole menswear day, it’s brilliant that both Topman Design and MAN get the chance to shine on their own.”

About Topman:
Topman offers the latest in men’s fashion, encompassing a range of styles to suit every shopper. Topman’s extensive collection embraces everything from the latest fashion trends to classic pieces, and extends to men’s shoes, men’s hoodies, men’s shorts accessories and formal wear. Topman also provide the simplest way to search for and buy mens clothes, placing it among the leading fashion retailers in the UK market today.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

WOMbat, the UK’s leading ethically-sourced adventure clothing retailer, has announced it’s giving hundreds of pounds worth of clothes away for free.

The Cheshire-based company sells a wide range of tough outdoor clothing from hoodies to wellies and critically, cares how its clothes are made and the effect they have on the environment. In a bid to find other people who share the same ideals, WOMbat is asking like minded adventure lovers to make themselves known.

The team at WOMbat know full well they would rather be climbing a mountain or paddling a river than filling in a form. So, in order to tempt adventurous types to give up a few minutes of their outdoor time and fill in their details on the website, they’re giving away £250 worth of vouchers.

Everyone who signs up at WOMbat’s website between now and May 31 will be entered into the prize draw and have the chance to get their hands on hundreds of pounds worth of adventure clothing, absolutely free.

WOMbat’s Victoria Tingey said: “Our business is based on providing tough, well-made adventure clothing to people who love the outdoors and want to look good whether they’re hanging off a rock or jumping out of a plane.

“To make sure no one in the supply chain has poor working conditions or is exploited, we only stock ethical clothing from trusted suppliers and manufacturers. We also make sure our clothing doesn’t hurt the environment, which is why over half our stock is either fair trade clothing or made from organic materials.

Fashion Crazed, the online fashion and style website, is pleased to announce that it will now be featuring more articles aimed towards plus sized women.

It is a common fact that the average dress size for a British woman is a size 16, whilst the average size for an American woman is a dress size 14. So with that in mind Fashion Crazed believes that it is important to include more features which are orientated towards the average woman and further include images which reflect these women’s figures.

In recent times there has been a significant increase in the number of plus size models used by the fashion industry. Most notable was the use of plus size models by Mark Fast at London Fashion Week last year. However this has sparked much debate not only amongst fashion insiders but also amongst the general public. The use of plus size models at such a prestigious fashion event was very much viewed as a controversy by some. Whilst on the other hand many hailed it as revolutionary and a positive change. These people were tired of seeing unhealthy looking models command the catwalk and were happy to see the image of curvaceous women being promoted throughout the world.

Fashion Crazed is an online website which aims to bring its readers the latest news and happenings from the fashion world on a bi-weekly basis. Fashion Crazed further strives to highlight the emerging trends from within the fashion industry and deliver solutions to many of the fashion dilemmas which are common to so many women. Moreover the website is dedicated to providing its readers with an insight into the latest “must have” clothes and accessories as well as the latest information on fashion events from across the world.

Following on from Mark Fast’s lead V Magazine has recently launched a special edition of the magazine which features the use of plus size models. However, despite this increase in awareness and the improved use of plus size models it seems apparent that there is a distinct lack of media imagery which reflects the average woman. Rather instead the media, especially the fashion media, is predominately dominated by size zero models. In fact all too often many plus size women feel that they must go to a specialist website aimed specifically focused on plus size fashion to find imagery and content which reflects them and their fashion needs.

Fashion Crazed hopes by including more articles aimed at plus size women and images featuring such women it will cater more adequately to the needs of women of all shapes. Fashion Crazed further hopes that the inclusion of such material will challenge the stereotype of many who believe that to be beautiful and fashionable you must be stick thin. Rather Fashion Crazed aims to support the stance that beauty comes in a variety of forms and that being a size 16 or bigger does not mean that you cannot dress stylishly.

What is more Fashion Confidential is aware of the continual debate surrounding the health status of many fashion models. Consequently Fashion Crazed understands the importance of promoting a healthy and realistic image for women and young girls to aspire towards.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

London based Orlebar Brown, in collaboration with Monocle Magazine, have launched two limited edition versions of their classic tailored, mid-length Bulldog swimming shorts.

These exclusive luxury swim shorts are available in two different shades of green; the bright and eye catching “Green Flash” and the darker, more mysterious “Spirulina”.

Both share the classic features that have made Orlebar Brown shorts the must-have addition to discerning wardrobes, though the colour scheme and the Monocle hip tag are only to be found on this highly limited edition run.

Only three hundred of each style of shorts have been created, and news of this special collaboration has already spread fast. The shorts are solely available on the internet, from the Orlander Brown website and from Monocle online. Other stockists will not be carrying these styles.

Green has been marked as the “it” colour for 2010 – not only does the colour represent renewal and new growth (recently of course it has also become the symbol for the environment), but it is also the easiest colour for the eye to see, which results in its restful, comforting qualities.

Orlebar Brown expect that their limited edition run of classic tailored swim shorts in two different shades of green will combine the timeless style that their shorts embody with the colour hotly tipped to define this year.

Each pair of shorts is available via the Orlebar Brown website, and from Monocle Online, priced at £125.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Chester-based fair trade fashion company WOMbat Clothing will have a range of its exciting and innovative adventure clothing modelled at a prestigious fashion show next month. Fairwear Fashion Show 2010 takes place on Thursday February 25 in the awesome surroundings of Bristol Cathedral, and promises to be a star-studded occasion.

Hollyoaks and Casualty actor James Redmond will compere the event, which is made possible by a strong partnership between many different agencies and supporters, including manufacturers and suppliers.

There will also be an exclusive video link into the event starring top comedian Harry Hill.
All exhibitors are members of the World Free Trade Organisation, or use Fair Trade certified cotton.

Freya Pearson, fashion show co-ordinator said: “Fair trade fashion is ethical and fun and the show offers a perfect opportunity to move people away from fast, disposable fashion to more sustainable options.

“Last year’s shows attracted 450 people, and this time, with the awesome backdrop of Bristol Cathedral and London staging experts creating the set, all the ingredients are in place for a fantastic event.”

Victoria Tingey of WOMbat said: “We’re really excited to have been chosen to display our clothing at the Fairwear Fashion Show, which will show the audience that fair trade fashion can be fun, funky and right on-trend.”

There will be two shows on the day, at 4pm and 7pm. Tickets for the show are on sale now, and are selling out steadily. They are priced £8 (£5 concessions) for the early show, and £10 (£7 concessions) for the 7pm event.

To avoid disappointment, book yours via www.bristolticketshop.co.uk/fairtradelink.htm or call 0117 929 9008.

Fashion upstart Bina Apparel today announced the launch of their first original line of Girls apparel. “This is an exciting time for us” says founder and CEO of Bina Apparel Maria Urdinarrain “Our line reintroduces the classic, clean lines, artfulness and fine workmanship that little girls’ clothing is sorely missing in today’s market.”

The new line debuts girl’s fashion for toddlers (24 months) up to 7 years of age in dresses, separates and outerwear. Inspired from a vintage style, the line adapts warm tones, exceptional fabrics, incredible attention to detail and fine craftsmanship. Details include pintucking, appliqué embroidery, pockets, and pleats.

The color combinations are a delectable blend of currant, grape, plum, chocolate and sage, intentionally imbuing a sense of tradition and polished taste. Bolder tonal accent colors finish the look for a smart, feminine vibe. The pallet is a refreshing burst of earthy tones and wholesome shades.

The entire line relies heavily on natural fibers and ease of care for busy families. Dresses are 100% cotton sateen and separates are 95%/5% cotton/lycra blend for machine-wash and wear cleaning. The outerwear coats are high-quality wool blend tweed with 100% cotton flannel lining to keep little hearts warm and snuggly. With coats like this, you’ll welcome the cooler weather.

The line is scheduled to debut for the Fall/Winter 2010 season. It will be available to show starting mid-February and available for delivery in-store starting in August. The company will be supporting wholesale distribution, but will maintain small online retail availability for areas where distribution is not available.

Bina Apparel is a Nashua, NH based fashion design, manufacturing and distribution company. The company’s strong background in design, fabrics, fitting, pattern work and sales is a natural fit for boutique retail shops interested in adding a fresh line to their fall selection. All styles are constructed with CPSIA certified materials and made with care in the U.S.A.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Women’s fashion brand Roman Originals makes shopping in 2010 easier, helping women become intelligent, money saving, savvy shoppers in 2010!

Traditionally Roman Originals has ranges of ladies clothing and stylish accessories, such as hats and bags, shrugs and bolero’s, womens underwear available in over 150 outlets across the United Kingdom, as well as online. Nevertheless due to increasing demands over the past year, all their garments are now also available online to international customers. As a result, customers outside the United Kingdom are now able to order online from Roman Originals, with no fuss.

Roman Originals believes that there are ten clear reasons to shop with them in 2010. Come 2010 all customers are guaranteed a superb choice with over 30 new styles each week. In addition every garment made will continue to be created using only quality fabrics and stylish yet practical designs. However, as this high quality production continues to soar, the prices certainly will not. The new order by phone and customer services support options, make ordering a lot quicker, easier and hassle free. What’s more the Roman Originals site offers secure Pay Pal transactions and accepts all major credit and debit cards. Leaving each customer feeling confident and safe in the knowledge that every purchase made is a 100% verifiably secure transaction. With free UK delivery on all orders of £45 and more along with a variety of promotional offers and web exclusives online or sent via email, customers cannot help but become intelligent shoppers in 2010.

Customers visiting the site can also sign up to receive the Roman Originals catalogue. The catalogue which is issued on a monthly basis keeps customer up-to-date with all the seasons’ trends as well as the latest additions at Roman Originals. For those who like to keep a close eye on fashion, there is also an email list which allows those on the list to be privy to the latest fashion news and details of Roman Original’s special offers. If that was not enough, in order to welcome new customers, all new customers in 2010 will receive 10% off their first order.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Roman Originals have announced their end of year womens clothing and accessories sale. The sale has up to 50% off a full range of clothing and accessories with perfect Christmas gifts for loved ones and glamorous evening wear outfits, all in time for the festive celebrations.

Now shopping online at Roman Originals for blouses, trousers, evening wear dresses, day dress, skirts, jackets, suits, tops, coats and even knitwear f r o m as little as £10 is even easier with the new ‘shop by size’ option. If that is not enough, the women’s wear company are also providing free UK standard delivery for those orders over £45 taking between 3-4 days. Moreover the next day delivery option guarantees delivery within 1 working day and customers has up to 14 days for returns. There is also a new customer service phone order alternative, meaning that shopping at Roman originals can be even quicker and easier all f r o m the comfort of one home. The experienced UK based customer service team are on call Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm and are eagerly waiting to place needed orders. What’s more, if the call order is made by a customer after working hour, a team member will be sure to return the call on the next working day.

With the sale now on, there is a wealth of choice at unbeatable prices. All women’s clothing is available in a selection of colours, fabrics and styles. As a result, finding the ideal outfit for the festive period is simple, and even quicker with the new ‘shop by size’ feature. Nevertheless, despite all garment being available at inexpensive prices, they are still designed with care, cut f r o m the best materials and tailored well. This extra care and attention ensures that women, regardless of their shape and size can add a hint of glamour to their wardrobe, all in time for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

All womens clothing and accessories are designed and manufactured in house and available in over 150 outlets across the United Kingdom. Orders made online are available to those that reside in the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. Deliveries are made throughout the year f r o m Monday to Friday.

To get a free 2010 spring/ summer catalogue or for the chance to win £250 worth of free clothing and to find out more about Roman Originals latest offers and promotions visit: www.romanoriginals.co.uk.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Topshop, the award winning clothing retailer, has announced the return of its Sno clothing range. Included in the collection are trousers, jackets, a ski suit, salopettes and a selection of accessories such as thermal style underwear, sunglasses, snoods, goggles and mittens. All designs are wind and water proof and feature rubberised zip-pulls and waterproof coated zips, offering complete comfort and protection f r o m the elements. The Sno range has been streamlined since 2008 to include only the most essential pieces for customers’ skiing holidays.

Jackets come in black and a monochrome print with a warm fur-trimmed hood. They are based on the mobility and functionality of the ‘boarding’ style jacket and feature a ’snow skirt’ which keeps the snow out. They include a soft fleece interior, an adjustable hood, a glove pocket, a pocket for goggles and a zipped internal pocket, ideal for an iPod or phone.

There are two styles of trousers, including a ski style and a board style, with both available in classic black. All trousers, salapettes and the all-in-one boiler suit are part-fleece lined for comfort and warmth, and include taped seams and durable gaiters to go around the base of the ski boot.

Additional pieces include cotton thermal style underwear in either pale coral or dove grey, woollen snoods lined in fleece, padded ski mittens, knitted headbands and fleece-lined woolly hats. Spray-back sunglasses are available in black or charcoal and filter UV rays as well as offering resistance to snow glare.

The Topshop Sno range is focused on fashionable and affordable professional ski and boarding garments with accessories. The range incorporates technical ski features and provides manoeuvrability with maximum insulation and minimum bulk.

The Sno range is available at all Topshop stores in the UK and online at topshop.com.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Animal the freesports apparel brand is proud to announce that their new watch range has been launched on their online store.

The launch of the new watch range marks the anniversary of Animal’s 22nd year in the freesports watch industry and is the largest and most diverse watch range designed by the Animal in-house team.

All Animal watches are 100% designed and built f r o m scratch by the Animal design team. During the lifespan of every watch model, Animal reviews, improves or replaces any component that doesn’t come up to scratch using information received f r o m Animal sponsored riders and customers.

Recent key pieces have used titanium cases and bracelets, carbon fibre, laser-etching, and advanced composites. Another highlight in the range available on the Animal E Store is the RIP System model that charges by the wearer’s movements, and never requires battery changes.

The new Animal watch microsite will showcase the full range of Animal men’s watches and women’s watches as well as including key features such as a filter system which enables customers to select their ideal watch. Team rider testimonials and added bonuses such as downloadable wallpapers will also be included.

Animal aligns itself as a lifestyle brand based around a number of core sports including surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, bodyboard, mountain bike, BMX, wakeboard, freeski, snowboarding and motorcross. Animal also sponsors key events across these sports and has a team of riders ranging f r o m youth development through to professional.

Burton, a leading men’s fashion retailer in the UK, has launched 168, a new clothing line available in selected high street stores and online at Burton.co.uk.

Working with American based Z Brand, Burton has developed a mix and match line of casual wear designed for the adventure loving man.

The name 168 was inspired by a backpacking trip to China. When written in Chinese, the numbers 168 are phonetically similar to Luck, Happiness and Prosperity and are thus used as the short form for these aspirations.

For the designers, 168 became a philosophy and soon translated into the 168 collection. The collection is based around simple sophisticated pieces with subtle details that make it personal and lived in. The value is evident in the signature detailing, brass buttons, patchwork, and added textures.

The Burton line will be produced in three waves starting with the first wave in time for Christmas. The first wave includes vintage inspired polo shirts and t-shirts with frayed hems and soft, pre-washed fabrics. Jeans, cargos and hoodies are also included in the December shipment. All pieces are designed to mix and match so they can easily be thrown into a duffle bag for a weekend away.

Waves 2 and 3 of the line take on a more regal feel with the addition of the 168 coat of arms logo. Patches and silk-screens are added to pre-washed shirts, polos and t-shirts.

Jane Williams, senior Burton buyer on brands has said, “The 168 line provides the Burton customer with a twist on our main range by offering a full collection that can easily be mixed and matched. We’ve used excellent quality fabrics that get softer and more attractive as they wear. We feel it’s an excellent balance between offering our customers unique, design-led products with a huge hit of comfort and value.”

Z brand designs, produces and develops clothing that embodies a casual lifestyle driven by adventure and curiosity. 168 is an exciting new line that takes this ethos and tailors it to the busy lifestyle of the Burton customer.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Cloggs, the UK shoe retailer, has voiced its approval of recent actions taken by the Metropolitan Police Force, shutting down hundreds of websites selling fake UGG Boots.

In an effort to crack down on bogus UGG Boots websites (either selling fake UGG Boots or fake websites that were purely designed to conduct identity fraud), the Metropolitan police have shut down over 400 illegal UGGs websites in recent days. This ensures that legitimate sellers like Cloggs.co.uk are left to sell real UGG Boots on real websites, and that the consumer’s pockets are protected.

However, even though the Metropolitan police have taken this drastic measure, this doesn’t mean to say that there won’t still be bogus websites out there. Whilst this will cause concern amongst potential buyers, Cloggs.co.uk knows just how to identify genuine UGGs websites from fakes. In association with Consumer Direct, the government service for advice on consumer issues, Cloggs.co.uk has produced a checklist on its website that consumers can use to check sites for legitimacy before they part with their hard earned cash.

Cloggs.co.uk meets all of the criteria specified on the check list, so customers can rest assured when they buy from Cloggs that the UGGs are genuine and that the website is legitimate.

Nick Thomas, Cloggs.co.uk Director, said: “As UGG boot sales continue to rise year upon year in the UK, so do the number of fake UGG boots websites, which mostly originate from criminal gangs in Asia that buy up .co.uk domain names. All these websites are designed to do is make money illegally - either by selling fake products or using the website to gain identity information that will be used illegally elsewhere. Cloggs.co.uk applauds the efforts made by the Metropolitan police to protect UK consumers this Christmas and is glad to support this effort by promoting a handy website checklist to ensure that consumers don’t get stung when buying UGG boots in the future.”

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Hotter Comfort Concept, which manufactures 1.3 million pairs of comfortable women’s shoes and men’s shoes in the UK each year, celebrates its 50th anniversary.

In five decades Hotter Shoes has grown from being a producer of moulded slippers to become one of the biggest comfort shoe manufacturers in the UK, making some of the most technically advanced Women’s Shoes in the world. The brand, which turned over £37.5m and made profits of £5m in the last financial year, announced 20 per cent growth in the first six months of this financial year.

The company owes its longevity to an innovative strategy which has seen it diversify from its manufacturing roots to incorporate direct selling, online selling, branded stores and independent retailers into its marketing strategy. Indeed the company has a 100 seater call centre sited next to its factory and warehouse in Lancashire.

Managing Director, Stewart Houlgrave, whose parents set up the company in 1959 said: “It’s our 50th birthday in 2009 and we are aiming for 20 per cent growth. In the past six months we have invested in a state-of-the-art website which revolutionises our customer shopping journey, tested our first TV advertising campaign and we are actively looking to boost our overseas presence.

“Over the past six years we’ve invested £6m in our shoe making company and now have one of the most successful production facilities anywhere in the world. We have a ground-breaking marketing model which helped secure £21m of private investment in 2007 - and we have been placed in the top 100 of the Times Profit Track 100 for the past two years.

“We have sold our shoes via iconic photos of the Calendar Girls wearing nothing but Hotter women’s shoes and our monthly factory tour is fully booked until 2016 purely by word of mouth.”

About Hotter Comfort Concept:
As one of the last bastions of shoe manufacturing in the UK, the 380 staff of Hotter Comfort Concept are flying the flag for home-grown footwear talent with an innovative strategy which includes selling its wide fitting women’s shoes, ladies boots and comfy men’s and women’s shoes direct to its customers via its on-site 100-seater-call centre, through five branded stores and selling through 200 independent UK retailers including garden centres.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Pologeorgis Furs, the renowned New York City designer and manufacturer of high end furs and fur accessories is proud to announce the launch of their new website, www.pologeorgis.com. The site is designed to be user friendly and easy to navigate for both retail stores and personal clientele.

Approaching their 50 th year in business, Pologeorgis Furs is known for their impeccable quality of furs and couture like craftsmanship. A pioneer in the fur industry, Pologeorgis was among the first to forge relationships between ready to wear designers and fur manufacturers. Pologeorgis has built an impressive roster of designers which include, Michael Kors Furs, Zandra Rhodes Furs, Chado Ralph Rucci Furs, Zac Posen Furs, and Chris Benz Furs. Each collection features the finest in Russian sable, mink, sheared mink, fox and shearlings, combined with the most inventive styling and innovative techniques available in fur today.

The designer fur collections can be found at department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue , and Bloomingdale’s as well as specialty stores around the World. Seeing a void in the market place, a collection of fur accessories was developed focusing on high quality and high fashion at an accessible price point. Styles include vests, hats and scarves which retail at Nordstrom’s and Bergdorf Goodman. A full line of Home Furs featuring luxurious custom made blankets and pillows evolved from collaborating with interior designers and decorators.

Since 2001, Pologeorgis has been headquartered in a New York City loft. The unique space features a private showroom for sales and an on site factory for immediate repairs and custom work. The state of the art temperature controlled fur storage vault is spacious enough to house thousands of garments. An experienced expert is available by appointment to assist clients in the restyling and repairing of their existing furs.

Pologeorgis is a multi faceted operation with the capacity to produce made to measure garments. Following in the old world tradition each garment is made completely by hand. The process starts with a private style consultation with the pattern maker, then the selection of the pelts and a final garment fitting only to be completed at the customer’s total satisfaction.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

Junior Drake, a leading designer, manufacture and marketer of genuine leather handbags for women, today announced it plans to open an outlet retail store in Santa Monica, California. The outlet store will represent the company’s first outlet retail location. Junior Drake invites media and press to join us on our opening day. Doors will open on Friday, November 6th at 9am. The store is located at 700 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA. 90401.

The Company’s new 2400 square foot retail location will carry select Junior Drake handbag collections at discounts up to 80% off. The first 200 customers will receive a free Junior Drake tote with purchase, while supplies last. This affluent area is the destination for some of the hottest shops and boutiques Los Angeles has to offer.

“Our fans love the soft, well-treated, expensive leathers we use to make our handbags. With Junior Drake, you’ve always known you’re getting quality and style. Now at our new Factory Outlet, you’re getting those things for a sweet deal! We’re so happy to be in Santa Monica. Outlet shopping is a destination activity, and what more could you want than the beach and 3rd St. Promenade right near by?” –Lucy Brown

The Junior Drake House of Design
The Junior Drake collection of quality leather handbags caters to the fashion forward woman. The classy but edgy style of Junior Drake handbags attracts women of all ages who are confident in their own style, strive to make a statement, and exude a distinctive personality.

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases

The collection presents an assortment of luxurious yet sophisticated oriental-inspired pieces for day and evening festive wear, along with an exclusive lingerie preview online.

Influences of traditional Chinese and Japanese clothing run through the collection. The Cheongsam dress, normally made in embroidered satin is brought up to date in a gunmetal lurex knit whilst kimono shape dresses in chiffons and silks offer a sensual laid-back style. The sleeves on the ‘Geisha Rose’ print blouse are voluminous and bell-shaped. Prints of bamboo, flying stalks, lotus flowers and fireworks are flamboyant reflecting the richness of the orient.

Knitwear is given glamorous details, offering comfort and sparkle for winter dressing. A soft grey cashmere tunic is dressed up with a silver beaded obi belt whilst two classic knit crew-neck jumpers in slate grey and navy are spruced up with jewelled shoulder pads stitched to the outside of the garment. A series of lurex-striped shrugs and sequinned knit waistcoats when worn over a casual outfit add instant night-time luxury.

The black rectangular jagged sequin bandeau maxi dress epitomises festive party-wear mixed with Kate’s signature rock-n-roll style. Elsewhere a traditional floral beaded long sleeve dress is one-shouldered and the skirt of a strapless mini dress is covered in black mesh petals and gold beads. Snake print leather obi belts wrap around smart dresses and ostrich feathers adorn the sleeves of a shift dress.

Continuing from the previous season, Christmas embraces chic, smart tailoring. An exquisite satin pencil skirt in navy or black is asymmetrically buttoned down the front and a black grosgrain boat neck shift dress is the ultimate in ladylike dressing. A shrunken Victoriana jacket with frogging and cornelli detailing is easy to wear, and a jacquard Princess coat with jewelled buttons stands out from the collection.

Underwear makes a prominent return this season, with the debut of nightwear and an exclusive online preview of the new lingerie range. Beautiful printed chiffons in triangle shape bras and teddies are feminine, whilst a leopard print balcony bra with an eyelash lace trim has instant sex-appeal. Floral printed silk pyjamas are adorned with an embroidered ‘K’ and come with a drawstring bag in the same material making it the perfect gift for Christmas.

When asked what the inspiration was behind the new nightwear collection, Kate said: “I love beautiful nightwear, it makes you feel great. I’ve collected millions of vintage slips, nighties, camis and bed jackets. Who doesn’t want fab nightwear for Christmas?”

Via EPR Network
More Apparel & Fashion press releases