Let The Negotiating Begin

Is it me, or does Egg Nog taste better when you drink it any other time of year except Christmas. I digress.

There are some things you can count in January:

1. Gyms will be packed (the resolution crowd)

2. Sports Bars earn their money (Football crowd)

3. Fewer people in front of office building shivering (smokers vowing to quit...again, the resolution crowd)

4. Clash of the Titans (retailers and vendors "talk" about markdown money)

I was reading the morning papers and I came across this article regarding what vendors are doing to minimize the impact of markdown-happy merchants.

(Reuters) - Clothing manufacturers, irked by the deep holiday discounts offered by retailers, may force department stores to absorb a larger chunk of the markdowns, Bloomberg reported.
Fashion company Liz Claiborne Inc, HMS Productions Inc and other apparel companies plan to push back at the retailers who slashed prices as much as 70 percent this holiday season, the agency said.
The agency cited Lou Breuning, president of New York-based HMS, saying the company was asking department stores for concessions. HMS sells Spence blouses at Dillard's Inc and Cable & Gauge knits through Macy's Inc.
Apparel manufacturers and department stores will meet before the retail fiscal year ends on January 31 to determine how to split discount costs, the agency said.
Liz Claiborne, HMS and Macy's could not be immediately reached for comment.
U.S. retailers faced what could be the worst holiday shopping season in nearly four decades as a year-long recession, tighter credit and mounting job losses squeeze household budgets.
Despite markdowns of 60 percent to 70 percent and extended store hours, retailers' hopes that the last weekend before Christmas would bring shoppers to stores were dashed, as poor weather kept many consumers huddled indoors.

On The Move...

Eilidh MacAskill, managing editor of InStyle, has been named editor in chief of British InStyle, effective February.

Trish Halpin, editor in chief of British InStyle, has been named editor in chief of Marie Claire U.K. Halpin will replace Marie O'Riordan, who resigned.

Lisa Schiek, global communications director at Tom Ford, will be leaving the company in early 2009.

Nathaniel Schachter is leaving his position in V and VMAN's marketing and events department after the holidays.

After two years at Prescriptives, Libbie Hess is now a global communications associate with Estée Lauder.

Lauren Sweder, public relations director for What Comes Around Goes Around, has resigned.

Gwen Wunderlich-Smith has officially launched Vital Public Relations as president and partnered with Vital Marketing.

Traci Young, formerly of Oxford Industries (owner of Tommy Bahama, Ben Sherman & Arnold Brant) has joined design house Robert Graham as vice president of PR and marketing.

ALSO...

Alison Brod Public Relations announces its representation of Hanky Panky.

The Bromley Group announces its representation of Fashion Forms.

People's Revolution announces its representation of Alternative and Davidelfin.

KCD announces its representation of Dunhill.

Season's Greetings From BRAG

PLAY TO ENJOY

Financial Education Series: Hedge Funds

There has been a lot of coverage in the media about the financial markets. Some of the MBAs BRAG has come in contact with over the weeks have been really chatty about the role retail is playing as a key economic indicator, especially this time of year where every lead story on the news is about retail sales.

They also mentioned that private equity and hedge funds are playing a huge role because some hedge funds and equity firms have put a large amount of capital into the retail sector. Apollo Group, the private equity firm managed by Leon Black, is the owner of Linen's & Things. As you already know Linen's & Things had to be liquidated and sources say, that Linen's & Things is currently have trouble liquidating due to the depressed credit market.

Prentice Capital, the hedge fund that was able to turn around Wet Seal, has been hit hard by the bankruptcy of KB Toy Stores. The fund CEO, Michael Zimmerman thought lighting could strike twice when he took the same strategies he used to turn around Wet Seal, and apply them to KB Toys. Experts say the reduction of inventory strategy for KB was a botched one, because it deprived the store of hot game consoles like the Nintendo Wii.

Some people are not exactly sure how hedge funds and private equity were able to buy some of their holdings when cash was so scarce. We had the same question at BRAG so we were able to have the Senior Editor of Marketplace, Paddy Hirsch (video below)explain how hedge funds acquire leverage.





A look inside hedge funds from Marketplace on Vimeo.

Malcolm Gladwell On Deliberate Practice

This is one of the best interviews I've seen on Charlie Rose- Malcolm Gladwell, the Caribbean-American writer from the New Yorker, stirs up some controversy on the concept of deliberate practice. I remember talking to a SVP of a major retail company about this very concept of "Deliberate Practice". Watch the video and let me know what you think.

On The Move...

Traci Young, formerly of Oxford Industries (owner of Tommy Bahama, Ben Sherman & Arnold Brant) has joined design house Robert Graham as vice president of PR and marketing.

Lisa Schiek, global communications director at Tom Ford, will be leaving the company in early 2009.

Nathaniel Schachter is leaving his position in V and VMAN's marketing and events department after the holidays.

Eilidh MacAskill, managing editor of InStyle, has been named editor in chief of British InStyle, effective February.

Trish Halpin, editor in chief of British InStyle, has been named editor in chief of Marie Claire U.K. Halpin will replace Marie O'Riordan, who resigned.

Jesse Oxfeld, formerly senior editor at New York, has left the magazine.

Sheila Mahony, formerly director of marketing for Cottage Living, has been named integrated marketing director for Food Network Magazine.

After two years at Prescriptives, Libbie Hess is now a global communications associate with Estée Lauder. Lauren Sweder, public relations director for What Comes Around Goes Around, has resigned.

Gwen Wunderlich-Smith has officially launched Vital Public Relations as president and partnered with Vital Marketing.

Also...

The Bromley Group announces its representation of Fashion Forms.

People's Revolution announces its representation of Alternative and Davidelfin.

Shop 'Round The Clock

I was on the train this morning, thumbing through the New York Times to see what was on sale and I came across a Lord & Taylor full page ad. It's not unusual to see a L&T ad, what was strange was the store hours; 6am- 1am! 1am, really?? It had to be a misprint. I put on my BRAG connections cap and made a few calls to L&T and sure enough, 1am was correct.

It seems many of our department stores are banking on insomniacs like us at the BRAG office to shop 'til the wee hours of the morning, because my sources at Macy's told me that they will be open 24 hours starting Saturday.

My only question is what does one wear to 1am shopping? I think it should be a pajama party in the aisle.

Vera Wang Pulls Out of Lavished Tent Show

I came across an article in "the journal" (The Wall Street Journal for those of you that are in the know) about big name designers pulling out of lavish shows during Fashion Week. This is important because for years the big name designers would cover the cost of Fashion Week and the smaller core of diverse designer could ride their coat-tails all the way to fashion notoriety. It will be interesting to see what this means for Black designers that are looking to make a name for themselves in 2009.
Here is an excerpt from the article:

High profile designer Vera Wang has decided not to stage a pricey runway show in February in what could be the start of an exodus of American designers from the official New York fashion week venue.

Ms. Wang, who will hold a low key event at her new boutique in Manhattan's Soho district, is the most prominent designer to drop out of the shows. Earlier this week, designers Betsey Johnson and Carmen Marc Valvo said they would forgo the lavish runway productions that can cost up to $500,000 but provide important publicity to the labels.
"We feel that the intimacy of a smaller venue will be the perfect backdrop for the collection and is an appropriate statement for the times," Ms. Wang said in a statement.
Associated Press

A look from the spring 2009 Vera Wang collection at Fashion Week in New York in September.
The fashion industry is being hit hard by the pullback in consumer spending this holiday season. Department stores such as Saks Inc.'s Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus Group Inc., which are the main buyers of American designer labels, have reported steep declines in sales in October and November and have canceled orders.

by Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan (click to read full article)

THE POWER OF NETWORKING

Is this day and age it's not what you know and it's not even who you know. It's how may "friends" and how many "connections" you have. Yes, technically that counts as "who you know", but in the digital age "knowing" someone takes on an entirely different meaning. At BRAG we know the power of networking and staying connected.

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In 2009 we will be launching some new initiatives that will help us all stay connected. Whether it be for employment opportunities, education or just staying visible in the industry, we want to make sure our members are in the spotlight and are armed with the tools to stay current.

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Until then take a look at a few sites we recommend.

JOIN THE BRAG LINKEDIN NETWORK

VIEW THE BRAG/FIT FACEBOOK PAGE

On The Move...

Michael Scarpa, formerly president of Liz Claiborne Inc., has been named chief operating officer (and chief financial officer, effective January 5) of Talbots, Inc.

Andrew McLeon, formerly of Liz Claiborne, has been named chief operating officer of the European operating division of Urban Outfitters Inc.

Melissa Pordy, formerly director of media investment solutions at Cheil Communications America, has been named assistant vice president of advertising for Cartier North America.

Michele Promaulayko, formerly executive editor of Cosmopolitan, has been named editor in chief of Women's Health.

Eleanor Banco, formerly associate director of public relations for style.com and men.style.com, has been named director of public relations for TeenVogue.

Per Inglander, formerly chief executive officer Rozae Nichols, has been named senior vice president of wholesale for Lacoste USA.

Bill Andrulevich, formerly general manager for Condé Nast's Fairchild Fashion Group, has been hired as executive vice president of operations and business development for Stylesight.

David Kurtz, formerly senior sales executive and China country manager for Worth Global Style Network (WGSN) in Asia, has been hired as senior vice president of sales for the Asia/Pacific Region for Stylesight.

Isham Sardouk, formerly design director for Victoria's Secret Intimates, has been hired as senior vice president of trend forecasting for Stylesight.

Jennifer Styles, formerly of Harrison & Schriftman, has left to create The Workshop, where she serves as managing partner.

Michael Crooke, formerly CEO of Revolution Living, has been named chief executive officer at Prana Living LLC.

Trey Sarten, previously with FULL PICTURE, has joined the Starwood Hotels Global PR team, working on the W Hotels and Le Meridien brands

Deanna Kangas was just appointed CEO and president of Stila Cosmetics.

ALSO:
Ashley Robb is no longer with Keri Levitt Communications. Her last day was Friday, December 5.

Krupp Group announces its representation of jewelry designers Kimberly McDonald and Roxanne Assoulin for Lee Angel.

Paul Wilmot Communications announces its representation of WOOLRICH John Rich & Bros.

On The Move...

Lewis Hopkins, formerly vice president and divisional manager of women's couture and evening apparel at Neiman Marcus, has been named senior vice president and general merchandising manager of women's wear at Holt Renfrew.

Cory Ohlendorf, previously of the Washington Post and most recently senior editor of DC magazine, has left to pursue the growth of his men's style site, Valetmag.com.

Redbook photo editor Annemarie Castro Muscatella has resigned and will be the photo director at Parents starting December 15. Her last day at Redbook is December 12.

Emily Debevoise, formerly of the accessories department at BluPRint, has been named West Coast VIP manager for Tod's.

Jill Fehrman, formerly acessories coordinator at BluPRint, has been promoted to head of the department.

Alison Brod PR announces its representation of Kelly Van Gogh ColorCouture. They will also now work in conjunction with Judith Ripka's internal PR team.

Deep Discounts Draw Shoppers

Sales in the nation’s stores were strong over the weekend, to the relief of retailers that had been expecting a holiday shopping period as slow as the overall economy.

But while spending was up, there were troubling signs in the early numbers. The bargains that drove shoppers to stores were so stunning, analysts said that retailers — already suffering from double-digit sales declines the last two months — would probably see their profits erode even further. Also, after shoppers flooded stores on Friday, foot traffic trailed off significantly on Saturday and Sunday.

Retailing professionals consider the weekend after Thanksgiving a barometer of overall holiday sales, which account for 25 to 40 percent of their annual sales. And in a year marked by an economic crisis, they are desperate for any signs that consumers are still willing to spend.
Their first glimpse came from two industry surveys released on Sunday. ShopperTrak, which does research for retailers, said sales increased 3 percent on Friday, compared with last year.
The National Retail Federation, adding up sales Thursday through Saturday and projected sales for Sunday, said that each shopper spent about 7 percent more this year than last year. Shoppers spent an average of $372.57 Friday though Sunday, according to the federation, a trade group.

“It seems that not only did retailers do a good job of attracting shoppers but it seems that shoppers were also excited again to take part in the tradition of Black Friday weekend,” said Kathy Grannis, a spokeswoman for the federation.
That study also showed that Friday was by far the busiest day of the weekend, with traffic trailing off by more than 16 million people on Saturday.
Analysts said the discounts that drew in shoppers over the weekend were so steep that many ailing chains might be no better off in the long run.
“You’re looking at discounts of 50 to 70 percent off,” said Matthew Katz, managing director in the retail practice of Alix Partners, an advisory and restructuring firm. “You have to sell two to three times as much to break even.”

Chains as varied as Target and Neiman Marcus offered goods at some of their lowest prices ever. At Target, a 26-inch LCD HD-TV, originally $429.99, was selling for $299. Last week Tracy Mullin, president and chief executive of the National Retail Federation, noted that “this could be the most heavily promotional Black Friday in history.”

LET THE SEASON BEGIN

Well it's Black Friday and the BRAG staff is out shopping. We are doing our part to help the retailers.
...check back with us tomorrow and we'll tell all about the deals we snapped up at Saks, Bloomingdales, Lord & Taylor, Macy's, Hermes, Sean John, Footlocker, Best Buy, TJX, The Children's Place, Levi's & Ashley Stewart.

Gift Cards: Fact vs. Fiction

Many of you received an e-mail last week regarding gift cards and a list of stores that were going out of business. The names on the list sent me to the floor so we at the BRAG office called some of our contacts to get the facts. The one store that threw me for a loop was Talbots. We immediately got on the phone to call Julie Lorigan, SVP of Communications/Media and she said, "
Totally false - we are not closing stores at either brand". She was referring to the Talbots and the J. Jill brand.

I then came across a Good Morning America article on-line talking about the same issue. Here is an excerpt-

AAAAAA

This year, consumers are expected to spend $25 billion on holiday gift cards. But what happens if you receive a gift card from a retailer that's going out of business or has filed for bankruptcy?
Currently, an e-mail is circulating the Web, warning consumers to use or lose their gift cards from closing stores.

Good Morning America's technology contributor, Becky Worley separates fact from fiction and tells you how to ensure you get the most out of gift cards this season.

There is some truth to this e-mail. This year, some consumers have been left holding the bag (or in this case the card) with $100 million in unused gift cards that could not be redeemed when stores went belly up. And consumers have very little recourse to get their money back.
Here's a rundown of some of the larger retailers that are in bankruptcy or in trouble.

Breakdown of Stores
Sharper Image: Sharper Image is already out of business. It left a lot of people holding $20 million in unusable gift cards, but they haven't sold gift cards since before they declared bankruptcy in February. Don't buy their gift cards on eBay because they aren't worth anything.

Circuit City: Circuit City is in chapter 11 bankruptcy. They have closed some retail stores, but I spoke with their corporate headquarters and they say they are restructuring and plan to stay in business for the long run.
The chain is selling and accepting gift cards this season. GMAs advice -- there are great deals on merchandise at Circuit City; buy electronics there and avoid gift cards.

Wilson's Leather: Wilson's Leather has closed all of its mall stores, but Wilson's Leather Outlets, airport stores and the company's Web site will all honor any Wilson's Leather retail gift cards.

Although they seem like the perfect gift, last year, more than $8 billion worth of gift cards went unused. People forget they have the gift cards or lose them. Make sure the cards come from a store where the gift's receiver already shops.
And don't forget to check fees and expiration dates. Also, you need to check before you buy a gift card that the metallic strip covering the pin number on the card has not been scratched off.
In stores that hang the gift cards out in public spaces, crooks will rub the metallic strip off, get the pin and then go online to redeem the value of the card.

Generic Bank Cards vs. Cash
Consumer Reports issued lot of information about these cards. They bear the logo of a major credit card, but they often have fees and expiration dates. Plus, they can lose value if you don't use them quickly.
The bottom line is: if you must give a gift card, make sure it's from a store where your recipient already shops, and that the store isn't in bankruptcy. And when in doubt, give cash.

CLICK HERE TO SEE VIDEO

Mr. Thomas Thanksgiving Message

Hello All:

Wishing all of you a very happy, enjoyable and restful Thanksgiving Day, as you sit down to give thanks with your family and friends.

Try not to think of your 401(k), pensions, or any other investments during this Thanksgiving Dinner, because this may give you indigestion.

Also, please work hard to avoid any family feuds, small or large. They not only ruin your dinner, but they have a tendency to last beyond Thanksgiving, through Christmas, and sometimes into the new year. Not a good way to begin a New Year.

If you are cooking; may your meal turn out better than expected, and that you get through it without burning yourself or the meal. May all your friends and family lavish you with praise.

If you are traveling to Grandma or Aunt Phyllis for dinner; please don't critize them if the do things a little different from you, and if they are a bit slow in getting dinner ready. They too deserve praise.

Remember, if you are driving, leave early, but if by chance you are running late; just remember it is better be late for dinner; than to rush and risk having a accident.
Be mindful of your own driving habits, and definitely be on the alert for those drivers who don't value life as much as you do. Eat a light meal before heading back on the day you return, to avoid fatigue that might make you sleepy.

May your Guardian Angel guide you safely to and from you destination.

And as we reflect on how blessed and thankful we are for all that we have, and have achieved; let us be mindful of those who might not even have a meal on Thanksgiving. Let us all dedicate ourselves in some way; big or small, to helping someone in need during this season of giving and rejoicing.

Enjoy this Thanksgiving in the true meaning.

J.J. Thomas
BRAG

HUMAN INTONATION - GIVE FASHION WITH A PURPOSE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!!!

GIVE FASHION WITH A PURPOSE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!!!

Greetings Everyone!

Just a few updates to share for this holiday weekend. Don’t forget to visit the HUMAN INTONATION site – www.humanintonation.com on Black Friday! Make your purchases from HUMAN INTONATION on the busiest shopping day of the year without the hassle of crowded stores.

H.I. in the VILLAGE VOICE! TODAY! 26 Nov 2008 - HUMAN INTONATION is included in New York City’s own The Village Voice Holiday Shopping Guide and interviewed for an Editorial. Check out the cool ¼PAGE Ad above! Be sure to pick up a free copy of the Village Voice Newspaper this Wednesday and spread the word! This holiday season is the perfect time to make your purchase from HUMAN INTONATION for yourself or friends and family. Give Fashion with a Purpose and know as always 15% of the proceeds from each sale are donated to one of our non-profit partners addressing youth and minority HIV/AIDS prevention, education efforts in the Darfur region, and/or re-building the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina!

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PACKING THOSE BAGS! The time has come for HUMAN INTONATION to set out to New Orleans, LA to volunteer with the non-profit group Hands On New Orleans November 26th to the 29th. We will have exciting, news, images, and stories to share when we return. Team HUMAN INTONATION is set to work on the KABOOM Playground build at a local school as well as preparing a HONO community Thanksgiving Meal for family and friends.

UP NEXT!!

HUMAN INTONATION will be included in the Silent Auction for the Black Retail Action Group’s (BRAG) Holiday Toy Drive 5 December 2008!

Verneda White
apparel by HUMAN INTONATION
verneda adele white
founder - creative director
new york - london - hong kong

VISIT THE SITE

It's in the BAG!

In a few weeks, Steven Swain will make his annual pilgrimage to New York from Rocky Mount, Va., to visit the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center and see the holiday window displays at Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue and Barneys New York.
He's also planning to bring back some prized souvenirs: the 2008 crop of holiday shopping bags. "They are small instances of good design," says the 33-year-old building-permit coordinator, who says he has been collecting shopping bags "in earnest" for 15 years.

He and legions of other collectors have been anxiously awaiting the latest vintage, and they won't be disappointed. Keeping up traditions despite the economic downturn, retailers are gallantly handing out fancy shopping bags again this year. Bloomingdale's bag features a watercolor rendition of the chain's New York flagship store, created by crooner Tony Bennett.

At Saks, the bags are emblazoned with drawings of snowflakes by the artist Marian Bantjes. Barneys New York's shopping bags feature New York artist John-Paul Philippe's drawings of doves, ornaments, snowflakes and peace signs, along with a photo of the Volkswagen Beetle he decorated for the retailer's "Peace + Love: Have a Hippie Holiday" campaign.
Going green is a big holiday retail theme this year -- and one that tends to run counter to the whole idea of shopping bags. And so Nordstrom and Macy's are offering their first completely recyclable holiday bags this year. Barneys says its bags use environmentally friendly, soy-based ink.

Call me the optimistic one here at the BRAG office, because I think some people shop just to get cool bags....tell us your thoughts on the bags

Also read more here

On The Move...

Wal-Mart announced a surprise change in leadership Friday, naming a Georgia Tech grad as its new CEO. Mike Duke, who joined Wal-Mart in 1995, will take the reins from Lee Scott, currently the company’s CEO, on Feb. 1.

Duke landed his first job at Rich’s department store in Atlanta — and stayed in the department-store business for 23 years as an executive at department-store operators May Stores and Federated Stores Inc., now known as Macy’s Inc.

Duke became chief executive and president of the Wal-Mart Stores U.S. division in 2003 and switched over to head the international division two years later as Wal-Mart increased its focus on international growth.

Here are the other moves during the week-

Giuseppe Rossi, previously CEO of Calvin Klein's European division, has been named chief executive officer and general manager of Ballantyne.

Lars Olofsson, currently executive vice president of the Nestlé Group, has been named chief executive officer of Carrefour, effective January 1.

Kenny Wilson, formerly senior vice president of Levi Strauss & Co.'s commercial operations in Europe, has been named president of Claire's Stores Inc. in Europe.

Michael Adler, formerly president of sales at Daron Fashions Group, has been named president of sales for Paramount Apparel Ltd.'s children' division.

Claire Schultheis, previously executive vice president of accessories and footwear at Stuart Weitzman, has been named managing director of Leifsdottir.

Saulo Villela has been promoted to public relations manager for Adrienne Landau.

Krupp Group announces its representation of Pedro Garcia shoes.

Shadow PR announces its representation of Ann Taylor and Patrick Melville Salon & Spa.Starworks announces its representations of Mimi So.

Macy's May Be Looking To Further Consolidate

My train ride in the morning is pretty uneventful on Sunday mornings, but I nearly fell out of my chair when I read the WWD article about Macy's. According to the article Macy’s Inc. is said to be looking at downsizing to two divisions from the current four.

WWD sources said the plan would fold Macy’s Florida in Miami and Macy’s Central in Atlanta into the Macy’s East and Macy’s West divisions. A Macy’s spokesman declined to comment directly on the speculation, which surfaced Thursday, a day after the retailer reported a net loss of $44 million for the third quarter. “We can’t comment on rumors, but we are fully focused on running the business for holiday,” said spokesman Jim Sluzewski.

My sources at Macy's and Lord & Taylor went on record as saying that a further consolidation in the retail sector would hamper that competitive spirit that was once so prevalent in the industry.

We'll be keeping our eye on this one...stay tuned

On The Move...

Peter Rizzo - formerly of Barneys New York, Bergdorf Goodman, and Polo Ralph Lauren, has joined Saks Fifth Avenue as a consultant for its men's private label merchandise.

Ezra Petronio - editor in chief of Self Service, has been joined Chanel as art director of its makeup and watch businesses.

Amanda Weiner - formerly a fashion assistant at Niche Media, has been named associate fashion and accessories editor.

Jonathan Ramsden - formerly CFO of TBWA Worldwide, has been named executive vice president and chief financial officer of Abercrombie & Fitch.

Gerard Baker - U.S. editor and assistant editor of the Times of London, has been named deputy editor in chief of the Wall Street Journal.

Mark Stanko - CFO of NexCen Franchise Management Inc., has been promoted to CFO of NexcCen Brands Inc.

Amanda Kruzich - formerly brand manager for skin care, fragrance and cosmetics at Elizabeth Arden Canada, has been named director of marketing for Fusion Brands Inc.

Lisa Perry - formerly of Jarden Consumer Solutions, has been named brand manager for Clean at Fusion Brands.

Jennifer Pinto, previously at Juicy Couture, has been named vice president of public relations and marketing for Nanette Lepore.

David Cassaday - formerly director of product development at Belford Inc., has been named executive vice president of brand development for Adrienne Vittadini LLC.

Casey Carter - formerly of ShopPR, has left to join MediaCraft.

Sasha Wilkins - executive style director of WSJ., has left the magazine.

Today is Annalise Ghiz's last day as press manager of Hollywould. The press office is closing as the company is up for sale.

Joanne Chiu is no longer director of PR for Shu Uemura. She will return to Tractenberg & Co. on Monday.

Alison Brod Public relations announces its representation of Mission skincare, founded by Steve Nash and Mia Hamm.

Bradbury Lewis announces its representation of Sequin jewelry collection.

Factory PR announces its representation of Original Penguin, men's, women's and accessories.

HL Group announces its representation of Red Wing Shoes.

The Return of The Interview Suit and Fiscally Sound Look

In these tough economic times it is imperative to set yourself apart from the competition. One way to do that is to nail the interview suit. Many of the recruiters BRAG spoke to believe that you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Part of nailing the interview is striking the right tone in this economic downturn. What is the right tone? Fiscally Responsible.

If you have been in the same job for the past 10-15 years and suddenly find yourself out there on the grind, we caution you regarding taking that Hermes bag to the interview. Hiring Managers, especially those of Wall Street firms want to hire people that are sharp, well put together, but that are fiscally prudent and have a deep understanding of cost-benefit analysis.

CLICK HERE FOR SOME GREAT FASHION TIPS

BRAG SALUTES OUR VETERANS

Holiday Sales may take a Holiday

As the Holiday Season approaches and Holiday Displays go up (Lord & Taylor windows go up on Thursday) this may be one of the toughest seasons for retailers in history. The outlook is bleak and retailers from Seattle to Florida must get creative to inspire customers to buy. I hope the "creative" team has lot of coffee. The one bright spot is Wal-Mart

Small Design "Wonder"

Belgian-born New York designer Diane von Furstenberg has used Diana Prince, aka Wonder Woman, as inspiration for her latest collection, a brightly-colored clothing range that proves dressing like a cartoon character needn't involve teaming knee-high boots with hot pants.

The influence of the American stars and stripes are evident in the collection, but in the star piece, a full-length dress, they blend together in muted tones, hinting only at their origin rather than screaming out superhero.

You can purchase a limited edition Diane von Furstenberg Wonder Woman comic book by clicking here

GENERATION O

We've heard of the X-ers, Gen Y, Gen Next, The Millennials, well here comes Generation O. With style and Fashion on their mind Generation O come to terms with having a Commander in Chief that share their values. GENERATION O is that college kid at the White House gate early Wednesday morning, lifting his shirt to reveal “Obama” painted in red on his chest. Or that stylized Obama T-shirt that makes irony look old, the “Obama Girl” on YouTube, or the thousands of notes on Barack Obama’s Facebook page: “U are the best!!!” “yeah, buddy.”
And, of course, Generation O is the president-elect himself.

Only a Fugees-loving, pick-up-basketball-playing, biracial president-elect would send supporters an e-mail message on election night that said: “I’m about to head to Grant Park to talk to everyone gathered there, but I wanted to write to you first.”

He signed it simply “Barack.” After all, they were close. He and his biggest fans, the generation of young adults who voted for him in record numbers, together had slogged through 21 months of campaigning. And in his moment of victory, Barack Obama shared the glow of success.
“All of this happened because of you,” the e-mail message said. “We just made history.”
With that simple “we” in millions of in-boxes, the post-baby-boomer era seems to have begun. The endless “us versus them” battles of the ’60s, over Vietnam, abortion, race and gender, at least for a moment last week, seemed as out-of-touch as a rotary phone. Of course, that was Mr. Obama’s goal. In his book, “The Audacity of Hope,” he was explicit in his desire to move beyond “the psychodrama of the Baby Boom generation — a tale rooted in old grudges and revenge plots hatched on a handful of college campuses long ago.”

On The Move...

Gary Muto, formerly president of Gap Adult and Gap Body, has been named president of Ann Taylor Loft.

Sarah Gray Miller, formerly editor in chief of O at Home, has been named editor in chief of Country Living.

Veronique Gaultier, previously general director of the Hermès Group's leather goods division, has been named president of Jean Paul Gaultier S.A.

Julie Macklowe, formerly of Sigma Capital, has left to start her own company, JMACK Capital.

Jill Borkan has been promoted to vice president in the Alison Brod Public Relations' fashion division.

Ed Burstell, formerly senior vice president and general merchandiser for nonapparel, has been named buying director of Liberty of London.

Benjamin Liong Setiawan, formerly assistant fashion and accessories editor, menswear, has been named associate fashion and accessories editor, menswear, of Aspen Peak, Atlanta Peach, Boston Common, Capitol File, Gotham, Hamptons, Los Angeles Confidential, Michigan Avenue, Ocean Drive, Philadelphia Style, and Vegas magazines.

Sven Gaede, chief executive officer of Net-a-porter.com, has resigned.


Maguire Steele announces its representation of Florsheim by Duckie Brown, launching fall 2009.

SHADOW PR announces its representation of French Connection.

01-20-09

New York Time Op-Ed

I was on the train this morning and as I sat proud to be a New Yorker, proud to be an American and proud to be, yes, I'm going to say what everyone wants to say but may not want to articulate...proud to be BLACK, I was moved by the letters to the editor of the New York Times. Those of you that know me know I like to share, so enjoy.

To the Editor:
That day has dawned, the day dreamed of by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., when a man is judged by the content of his character rather than by the color of his skin.
And America stands tall before all the world. (Rev.) Connell J. Maguire
Riviera Beach, Fla., Nov. 4, 2008
•
To the Editor:
Today is Election Day in America, and I am extremely excited.
Barack Obama has been declared the victor, and for me, an American and African-American, this is phenomenal.
It means that America has finally legitimized its African-American citizens — perhaps now we will no longer be perceived as “second class” citizens and can, at last, work to heal our nation after the travesty of slavery, discrimination and prejudice.
It also demonstrates that Americans are hopeful activists, as our forebears were, and that control of the country has finally returned to its citizens.
I am overcome with pride, inspiration and a profound love for all of those who fought throughout the civil rights era. Their struggle has not been in vain. A shining, radiant new day beckons.
Alan Champion
New York, Nov. 4, 2008
•
To the Editor:
I voted for John McCain and am disappointed that he did not prevail.
But Barack Obama is to be our new president. While I disagree with several of his campaign positions, it is appropriate to wipe the slate and judge the man by his words and deeds as president.
Four years ago, the losing party engaged in a downward spiral of anger and recrimination.
Similar counterproductive behavior, this time from Republicans like me, will inhibit our ability to deal with the significant and complex challenges that our country faces today.
We must allow Mr. Obama the opportunity he has rightfully earned to lead us — to lead all of us. Michael B. Row
Sparta N.J., Nov. 4, 2008
•
To the Editor:
During the campaign, Gov. Sarah Palin pooh-poohed Barack Obama’s community organizing efforts, saying, “I guess a small-town mayor is sort of like a ‘community organizer,’ except that you have actual responsibilities.” Little did she know.
Now, with Mr. Obama’s success, the whole world knows the power of a skilled community organizer, and how community organizing can be used to bring together people of all classes, races and creeds.
Given the deep hole that the Bush administration’s ideology has put the United States in, having a skilled community organizer as president gives me great hope that we can all pull together to rebuild the country — the infrastructure, health care and education in particular — and begin a robust, open and honest debate. Let’s begin with energy independence. Garth Bishop
Los Angeles, Nov. 4, 2008
•
To the Editor:
Along with the announcement that Barack Obama will be our next president will come the inevitable post-mortems about why John McCain lost.
In my humble opinion, Mr. McCain blew it because he did not heed the words of his patron Ronald Reagan: “Whatever else history may say about me when I’m gone, I hope it will record that I appealed to your best hopes, not your worst fears.” Dorian de Wind
Austin, Tex., Nov. 4, 2008

The election of Barack Obama as president marks the end of a long nightmare — eight years of an administration that waged wars in Muslim countries, shredded environmental regulations, defied Congress and the courts, and challenged the Constitution. But Mr. Obama is inheriting the additional nightmare of a recession that is heading rapidly toward a depression. President Franklin D. Roosevelt took office during an even graver emergency but was able to establish programs like Social Security, the National Labor Relations Act and the Farm Security Administration that stemmed the economic meltdown and provided help to millions of Americans. Roosevelt was able to do all this because a large Congressional majority stood behind him. Mr. Obama has the judgment and intelligence to rescue our country again, but only if the Republican minority in Congress refrains from its past practice of obstructing the programs of Democratic presidents. If ever there was a time for them to take seriously Senator John McCain’s campaign slogan of “country first,” it is now. Rachelle MarshallStanford, Calif., Nov. 4, 2008

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Oh Yes He Did!

CONGRATULATIONS ON A JOB WELL DONE!

YES HE CAN!

Circuit City shuttering 155 stores, laying off 17 percent of workforce

Circuit City Stores Inc. will close 155 stores and lay off about 7,200 employees, or 17 percent of its workforce, as it continues to restructure its business, the company announced this morning.
The Henrico County-based consumer electronics retailer will shutter about 21 percent of its U.S. stores and exit 12 markets.

The chain also faces credit issues with its vendors. Circuit City said certain vendors have changed payment terms, including demanding cash for inventory before shipping merchandise, as the all-important holiday shopping season approaches. Vendors also have limited the credit available to the company for purchases, including in some cases not providing customary increases in credit lines for holiday purchases.

"While management is working diligently to secure the support of its vendors and believes it has maintained good relationships with these important partners, the current mix of terms and credit availability is becoming unmanageable for the company," the company said in a statement this morning. Circuit City said it is "considering all available options and alternatives to restructure its business." One option, according to people who follow Circuit City, could be filing for federal bankruptcy protection.

The chain said it is in negotiations with its lenders and other third parties regarding various financing alternatives. The store closings will shrink the number of locations the chain operates in the U.S. to 566. Three Virginia stores — Charlottesville, Manassas and McLean — will close.
The company expects store closing sales at the 155 locations will begin Wednesday. The closing sales should be completed no later than Dec. 31.

It also said it would be renegotiating leases in stores that remain open.
The closings come after nearly two years of losses for the chain as it has struggles to compete against rival Best Buy Co. Inc. and retailers such as Wal-Mart Stores Inc.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

THE CHURN

Susan Sokol, formerly president of apparel at Vera Wang, has been named president and chief operating officer of J.Mendel.

Lucia Albero has joined DL1961 as sales account executive.

Ashley Bez, formerly of Aveda, has been named account executive
at Shadow PR.

Amy Boyle, formerly photo coordinator, is now photo assistant at Vanity Fair.

Vanessa Contini is the new fashion contributor at GQ Italia.

Sophie Dawson, formerly photo assistant, is now photo associate at Vanity Fair.

Cristina Pozzi has left GQ Italia.

Cate Sturgess has joined Vanity Fair as photo coordinator.

Heidi Wolfeld has joined DL1961 as sales account executive.

Siren PR announces its representation of Baby Phat.

Shadow PR announces its representation of 77 Kids, American Eagle's new children's collection, and The White Tie Affair.

Susan Magrino Agency announces its representation of Pixi.

Williamson PR announces its representation of Gilded Age for both men's and women's.

Men's VOGUE Calls It Quits

In an effort to cut expenses Conde Naste has decide to fold Men's Vogue. The move will cut expense by 5%. Men’s Vogue will all but disappear as a separate operation. It will be folded into Vogue and will be published twice a year instead of 10 times, the company said. Employees said they were told Thursday that most of the magazine’s staff would be laid off.

We will miss the publication as a stand alone. It was one of the few high fashion magazines the consistently had African American males on the cover. Be sure to check it out when it runs twice a year

LA Designers Stir up Noose Controversy

Two small designers in LA thought it would be funny to hang an effigy of Vice Presidential candidate, Sarah Palin by a noose for Halloween....guess what guys, not funny

FASHION ON SUNDAY

Sunday is supposed to be the day of rest, but to those that frequent The Abyssinian Baptis Church or Riverside, know that's not the case.

Among the myriad attractions of Sunday morning services at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem are the impassioned sermons of the Rev. Calvin O. Butts III, its pastor, and the chance to hear its stirring gospel choir.
Then there are the parishioners, including, on occasion, members of the fashion flock like Bethann Hardison, a model agent, and André Leon Talley, the editor at large at Vogue, along with a community of the faithful who fan out their plumage as neighbors and tourists look on.

CHECK OUT MORE PHOTOS HERE

THE CHURN

Jarrod Johanns - VP Merchandise Planning; Saks has left the position

Marie O'Riordan, editor in chief of U.K. Marie Claire, has left the title.

Christine Oh and Shawn Buchanan have been promoted to senior fashion managers at BPCM NY.

Celia Cohen has been promoted to senior beauty manager and will oversee the beauty department of BPCM NY.

Susan Morjain has been promoted to senior accessories manager and will oversee the accessories department of BPCM NY.

Tanya Jensen is now editorial director for Custo Barcelona. She was previously a contributing editor for The Daily.

Barry C. Parasram has joined Paul Wilmot Communications. He was previously at PMK/HBH.

Fred Perry has appointed Danae Dade as its key account footwear sales representative for the U.S.

Abby Gardner, formerly executive editor at The Daily, is now a contributing editor developing beauty coverage for The Daily, the Fashion MINI, and Fashionweekdaily.com.

Melissa Galandak, formerly with Ben-Amun jewelry, has joined Krupp Group as senior account executive, fashion and accessories.

Amanda Makoujy has been named public relations fashion assistant at Fingerprint Communications.

Dana Tannenbaum, formerly with Elie Tahari, has left the company.

BPCM NY announces its representation of Anne Klein NY, Azzaro, Bonpoint, Comptoir des Cotonniers, George Gina & Lucy, Marios Schwab, Omelle, and StyleCaster.

Krupp Group announces its representation of JT Handbags and Monique Péan fine jewelry.

Michele Marie PR announces its representation of Custo Barcelona and John Varvatos Eyewear.

BREAKNG NEWS - Former Bush Press Secretary Supports Obama

Former White House Press Secretary, Scott McClellan the consummate Bush loyalist no more, has a knack for dropping bombshells.

And now comes his grinning declaration, taped for a new weekend CNN show, "D.L. Hughley Breaks the News," that he has a favorite in the presidential election, and it is not John McCain.

His face lighting up as bright as his French blue shirt, it is clear what he's going to say before he opens his mouth.

"I will be voting for Barack Obama," he declares.

So the week that began when one former top Bush administration figure, former Secretary of State Colin L. Powell, endorsed Obama ends with the endorsement of another.

BRAG SPONSOR; SEAN JOHN TO BUY ENYCE

Liz Claiborne Inc. is selling its urban lifestyle brand Enyce to Sean John Clothing Inc., the apparel company owned by hip-hop impresario Sean "P. Diddy" Combs (pictured at a BRAG Event)

Representatives for Liz Claiborne and Sean John declined to discuss the terms of the deal. But a person familiar with the deal (notice we always have a person "familiar with the deal") said that Enyce (pronounced "En-EE-chay") -- which Claiborne bought for $114 million in 2003 -- was valued at about $20 million. Enyce's sales, which hit $100 million at their peak, have shrunk to about half that amount as retailers have consolidated.

In an interview, Mr. Combs said he plans to retool the brand, expand its distribution and take advantage of his connections in the entertainment industry to promote it.
"In music, people know me as the 'King of the Remix,' " Mr. Combs said. "Now I am remixing this brand and making it a hit."

READ MORE HERE

THE CHURN

Michelle Cutter, formerly vice president of marketing and international sales for Coach Watches, has been named vice president of marketing and new business development at Kooba.

Nicole Matusow, formerly senior public relations manager of Clarins USA, has been named PR director at Guerlain.

Leslie Bennets, contributing editor at Vanity Fair, has also been named contributing editor at Portfolio.

Susan Sokol, president of apparel for Vera Wang, has resigned.

Honor Brodie, assistant managing editor at In Style, has been named editor in chief of Tory Burch's website.

Tiffani Carter, formerly of account AVP of Tractenberg & Co., has been named assistant vice president of PR at Essie Cosmetics.

Jacqueline Long, previously senior publicity manager at Ports 1961, has been named account executive at BPCM.

Stacey Renee Benedetti, formerly division manager of luxury, fashion, and beauty at Tara, Ink., has been named senior vice president, director of beauty and fashion at The Patton Group.

Lisa Axelson, formerly senior vice president of design for Club Monaco, has been named senior vice president of design for Ann Taylor.

Mary Kay O'Connor-Wente, formerly vice president of the West region for Express, has been named senior vice president and director of stores for Ann Taylor.

Danesha Dixon Smith, formerly in human resources at Liz Claiborne Inc., has been named senior vice president of human resources for Kenneth Cole Productions Inc.

Michelle Davidson, formerly senior account executive at SHADOW PR, has been promoted to account supervisor.

Alexandra Lasky, senior account executive at SHADOW PR, has also been named celebrity manager.

Alexis Tedesco joins Behrman Communications as an account manager.

Lauren T. Parr is an account supervisor at Matter, an Edelman Entertainment Company, focusing on branded entertainment and content, sponsorship acquistion, event marketing and new business efforts for clients including Dove, Starbucks, Expedia and Burger King. She was previously at Ketchum Entertainment Marketing.

Michael Collins, previously senior vice president of planning and analysis at General Electric Corp.'s NBC Universal unit, has been named senior vice president of finance at Sears Holdings Corp.

Richard Vorisek has been named president of Housing Works Thrift Shops.

Christopher Bizzio has been named chief executive officer of Antichi Pellettieri Bags Srl.

HONOREE PROFILE: B OYAMA

This is the the height of the charity season and I'm in the back of the Escalade coming from an event as I write this. The event was great and as I was making my way to chocolate fountain I ran into B Oyama. The way you know it's B Oyama is that great smile. I call it one of the best smiles in Retail. If you get a chance to meet him check out the smile; if you don't get a chance to meet him then here is his bio.

Born in the West African nation of Gabon, menswear designer Bernard Oyama has been influenced by fashion since childhood. The grandson of a tailor, Oyama gained an appreciation for fine clothing and the art of dressing at a young age. “As a teenager, I delivered the suits to my
grandfather’s clients,” said Oyama. “That’s where I learned the trade and learned about fabrics and cuts. My grandfather was known as the go-to man for the best quality suits, so quality is all I’ve ever known.” Oyama eventually left Gabon to study marketing in Paris. Upon graduation, he worked as a financial services representative for three years. However, still fuelled by his passion for tailored clothing, Bernard dreamt of opening his own menswear boutique in the heart of Paris. His first boutique, aptly named Bernard, opened in 1992 to much success.
Five years later, Bernard closed his Paris shop to pursue the American dream. Oyama immigrated to New York in 1997 to pursue a master’s degree in banking and worked as a security guard while studying at American Institute of Banking at Mercy College. Upon completing his graduate coursework, Oyama served as a small business banker gaining notoriety at such notable organizations as EAB, North Fork Bank and Fleet Bank, now Bank of America. Though Oyama achieved immense success in the financial arena, his true passion for menswear continued to beckon him. His experience in New York
City opened his eyes to a unique and new interpretation of style. Oyama looked to Harlem and its tradition for style and panache as his inspiration. He knew Harlem, a place he viewed as the epicenter of American style, would ultimately be the destination of choice for the menswear boutique he’d always dreamt of opening in
New York City. Harlem, at the time, was on the verge of a new Renaissance, and B. Oyama sought to be the
first to bring upscale, quality clothing back to the neighborhood. His background in banking and experience as a business development officer provided a solid foundation for a successful retail business. In 2003, Oyama launched B. Oyama, his first ready-to-wear and
bespoke boutique, at 2330 Seventh Avenue in Harlem.
Filling a void in the menswear market, B. Oyama was one of the first upscale, freestanding retail stores to open in a previously underserved area. It was Oyama’s
goal to create an uptown Seventh Avenue fashion district similar to Soho, Madison Avenue or Fifth Avenue. Today, B. Oyama has been the catalyst for the opening of
other upscale Harlem area stores such as N Boutique, Montgomery, The Denim Library and Hats by Bunn.
B. Oyama has become the fashion destination for many of New York’s top business executives and social elite. Renowned for its well-cut suits, high-quality shirts and colorful ties and ascots, B. Oyama is reinventing the
way men are approaching fashion. B. Oyama has been featured in The New York Times, Black Enterprise and was most recently named one of the hottest designers of 2007 by Lloyd Boston on ABCs “The View.” In 2007,
B. Oyama introduced a women’s collection of sharp suits and shirts.

CAMPAING FASHION ITEMS

The campaign is alive with Fashion. Which one would you rather wear?
nuff said

HONOREE PROFILE: PATRICK ROBINSON

Of all the 2008 Honorees, Patrick is the youngest. At 41 he has been charged with turning the GAP around. After years of logo laden t-shirts and fashion experiments that worked in the fashion lab, but did not resonate with GAP customer, GAP decided it was time for a change. GAP decided to cast off it's Khakis for slim fit shirts. Early indications is that Patrick is making good on the promise to make GAP relevant & sexy again. Samuel L. Jackson brought Shaft back and Patrick Robinson is bringing sexy back.
Congratulations Patrick on your BRAG Business Achievement Award

Patrick Robinson was selected in May 2007 to serve as executive vice president of design for Gap Adult and gapbody. Robinson oversees all elements of design for Gap women’s and men’s apparel, accessories and intimates lines in North America.
Robinson joined Gap from Paco Rabanne in Paris, where he had been artistic director since 2005. Previously, he had designed a limited-edition collection for Target’s GO International initiative. Prior to his tenure at Paco Rabanne, Robinson held senior design and leadership roles at Perry Ellis and Anne Klein. Robinson served as the design director at Le Collezioni White Label by Giorgio Armani from 1990 to 1994.
Robinson is a graduate of the Parsons School of Design, was chosen one of Vogue magazine’s 100 rising stars in 1996 and has been a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America since 1994.