Black Retail Action Group

BRAG Holiday Toy Drive

2010-11-15T14:12:00.000-08:00

Join us in celebration of BRAG at 40 our Annual Holiday Toy Drive held at Fashion 40
202 West 40th Street
(between 7th and 8th Avenue) on December 8, 2010 from 6pm-10pm.

Dinner & two complimentary cocktails will be served.

Tickets: $40 plus an unwrapped toy and/or a donation to the BRAG Scholarship Fund.
$25 for students.

Order tickets at www.bragusa.org or by calling 212-234-3050

Allow the Innovators & Legends to Inspire You - 40 years

2010-09-27T18:13:00.000-07:00

Celebrate 40 years of BRAG excellence as we recognise those of have brought us this far and cultivate the legends of years to come.

Reserve your ticket for the 40th Annual BRAG Gala taking place this year on Friday October 22, 2010 at Cipriani 55 Wall Street.
Festivities begin at 6PM sharp. This is truly a special year and is not to be missed.

Are you CHECKED-IN?

2010-06-03T09:24:00.000-07:00

Checking in used to be for a flight or hotel stay. With the rise in social media, checking in is now a 24/7 prospect.
You can follow and be followed where ever you go. How far can we go.....

Dress for Success

2010-05-23T17:18:00.000-07:00

" Dress for the job you want, not the job you've got"
Do first impressions really matter when you are looking for the perfect job?

2010-02-02T10:44:00.000-08:00

ANNUAL HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE

2009-11-10T15:45:00.000-08:00

Please join us in celebrating Judith Jamison’s 20th Anniversary with the
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Friday December 4th, 2009
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
New York City Center
131 West 55th Street
( between 6th and 7th Avenues)

Donation: $125 with a Toy*

*Price includes the performance and a pre-performance reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the Mezzanine Lobby at the City Center.

BRAG wishes to thank our corporate partners Lord & Taylor and Saks Inc, along with former BRAG board president Nan Puryear for their wonderful support of our Christmas toy drive. This is a great cause as we give back to children in the communities we serve.

All toys will be donated to local charities: Hale House, Harlem Dowlin and Women In Need.

For more info visit www.bragusa.org or contact the BRAG office at 212-234-3050.

BRAG's 39th Annual Scholarship and Awards Dinner Gala Was a Huge Success!

2009-11-10T15:07:00.000-08:00

BRAG hosted its 39th Annual Scholarship and Awards Dinner Gala last month at Cipriani, Wall Street.

The gala attracted more than 500 fashion industry insiders, retail executives, celebrities and the media, bringing together many partners who made the event a tremendous success. Retailers such as Best Buy, Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s Inc, Lord & Taylor, Bloomingdale’s and Footlocker were just some of the event sponsors who provided financial scholarships that evening to high school and college students interested in pursuing careers in fashion, retail and related industries.

This year 24 scholarships were awarded to students from schools such as The High School of Fashion Industries, Howard University, The Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (LIM), The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), Centenary College, Berkley College The University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Fordham Leadership Academy High School.

This annual fundraiser supports such efforts as the industry acclaimed BRAG Summer Internship Program; The Executive Development Series; and the initiation of new BRAG college clubs at colleges and universities across the country. In the past year alone BRAG has opened student chapters at Howard University, The Ohio State University, Centenary College, LIM and Morehouse College.

The theme of the BRAG gala, The Power of Change, recognized that the world at large including the retail and fashion industries are on the cusp of a significant transformation. The leadership exemplified by each of the honorees and their methods of effecting change have challenged industry standards to ensure that all people of color are embraced, mentored and given opportunities.

Former NBA all star, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and President and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, Earvin “Magic” Johnson was recognized alongside Richard Dent, Senior Vice President, COO and Co-Leader of Victoria’s Secret, PINK; Shawn Outler, Group Vice President, Multicultural Merchandising and Vendor Development, Macy’s Inc.; Stephen Sadove, President and CEO, Saks Fifth Avenue, Inc.; and Constance White, Style Director and Fashion Spokesperson for eBay. Best Buy, nationally recognized for its diversity initiatives, received the BRAG Corporate Award while Latisha and Colin Daring, Co-owners of the Brooklyn, New York based boutique Pieces, was presented with the group’s JJ Thomas Business Innovators Award. “We were thrilled to have such a stellar group of honorees again this year”, said Gary L. Lampley, BRAG President. “Each of them was selected because they all understand that change equals diversity and diversity equals dollars and sense”.

Mr. Johnson’s philanthropic efforts was certainly the highlight of the evening when he held an impromptu auction raising an additional $10k to go towards supporting some of the new college clubs and student programs.

To date, BRAG, whose mission is to promote the acceptance and participation of men and women of color at all levels of retail and related industries, has been able to award over 350 scholarships totaling more than $300,000 to students who have achieved academic success and who exhibit financial need. Remarkably, over 800 students nationwide have participated in the industry acclaimed summer internship program. BRAG also continues to be praised for being one of the few organizations of its kind to recognize the achievements of African American’s and others in retail and retail related industries.

Check out the link to see BET's coverage of BRAG's 39th Annual Scholarship Gala.
http://www.bet.com/video/633655

"Fashion Siren for Change" Fashion Show by HUMAN INTONATION

2009-07-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

Announcement: HUMAN INTONATION will be a featured designer in the NAACP Centennial Conference Fashion Show on Tuesday,
July 14, 2009! Coverage by Giant Magazine

The NEW premium unisex apparel brand dedicated to raising social awareness while giving 15% of the proceeds from each sale to youth & minority HIV/AIDS prevention, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina & Education in Darfur.

Your Invitation!!! July 22, 2009

“Fashion’s Siren for Change: HUMAN INTONATION”

Season 2 of HUMAN INTONATION will launch with a full-fledge fashion show, along with a live film & art performances and a surprise special guest! You want to be at this event.

Come view our first line of HUMAN INTONATIONTM men & women long sleeve tees and dresses as we introduce new designs as a call for attention to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, youth & minority HIV/AIDS prevention, and education in Darfur! This year’s event will raise funds specifically for the Darfur Peace & Development Org (DPDO).
Hosted by J-Harris of Maschil Entertainment!!!

“Fashion’s Siren for Change: HUMAN INTONATION”
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Aperture Gallery
547 W 27th Street, 4th Floor
New York, NY 10001
Doors Open @ 7:30pm

Suggested Donation Scale: $20 - $50*
Donations over $35 for VIP seating (RSVP a must for VIP seating)
* Tax-deductible receipt for your donation available at the door

To RSVP please send an email to info@humanintonation.com.
Please pass this on!
www.humanintonation.com

BRAG Remembers Michael Jackson: A Fashion Icon

2009-07-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

As we lay to rest the undisputed King of Pop we can’t help but pay homage to his influence on fashion. Michael Jackson effortlessly created trends that would deem him a fashion icon. These looks would be globally replicated everywhere from the runways in Paris to concrete catwalks in remote American cities. High fashion designers like Roberto Cavalli and retail chains like Banana Republic have all created collections influenced by the entertainer. We were all mesmerized when he struck a pose on the tips of his penny loafers back in the day.

MJ’s choice of fashion was as smooth as his melodic voice. His elaborate military influenced costumes made it apparent that he was a true lover of detail. Michael’s signature white shirt, black pants, and one sequenced glove added a twist to the classic look.

Over three decades later we can find artists like Kanye West, Chris Brown and Beyonce all wearing styles influenced by the King.

Whether you were walking down the streets of Harlem, riding a trolley in London, or sitting in a cafe in Paris you were captivated when you saw him moonwalk across the stage during Mowtown 25. From music to fashion Michael Jackson bridged the gap between generations, races, and cultures. There will never be another entertainer that phenomenally influenced a culture the way MJ did. What do you think?

Gary Lampley, President of BRAG, was published recently in the highly respected Magazine Americana.

2009-06-08T12:14:00.000-07:00

An article written by Gary Lampley, President of BRAG, was published recently in the highly respected Magazine Americana (The Journal of American Popular Culture). See link below.
http://www.americanpopularculture.com/style.htm

Americana: The Institute for the Study of American Popular Culture, is an academic, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated to the publication of exceptional American creative writing and American Studies scholarship since the year 1900. They are especially interested in publishing material that examines such issues as social justice, human rights, environmental awareness, the human condition, diversity, love, compassion, ethical and moral obligations. In other words, they are passionate about projects that empower and uplift humanity.

Please join BRAG in congratulating Gary on this wonderful piece. Once you've had an opportunity to read the article be sure to post your comments here on the blog. We'd love to know your thoughts.

On The Move...

2009-02-07T06:20:00.000-08:00

Pierre-Alexis Dumas has been named creative director of Hermès.

Michelle Melton has been promoted to senior public relations manager for North America at Sonia Rykiel.

Lesley Langsam Kennedy, formerly PR director of Saks Fifth Avenue, has been named vice president of Behrman Communications.

Randy Kriech has been appointed vice president of sales and marketing at Priori Skincare, and U.S. distribution for the brand will now be handled directly by PRIORI Skincare USA, LLC with headquarters in Richmond, VA.

Beth Thomas Cohen and Beth Overzat announce the launch of B'squared Public Relations, specializing in public relations for accessory designers.

Sue Hostetler, currently the host of Plum Homes with Sue Hostetler on the lifestyle network Plum TV, has been named shelter and design editor for Niche Media.

Crystal Carlton Flynn has been named director of publicity and special events for Hearts On Fire.

Robert Skinner Jr. has resigned as chief executive officer of Devanlay U.S. Inc., the licensee for Lacoste branded apparel in the U.S. Skinner will be replaced by his predecessor in the position, Robert Siegel, who retired as chairman and ceo at the end of 2008 after seven years with the company.

ALSO...
The Wall Street Journal has closed its fashion bureau; 8 staff members including Teri Agins and Cheryl Tan have been let go, effective at the end of March.

BPCM announces its representation of Katherine Fleming.

Blue Stripe PR is pleased to announce our representation of Eight Centuries, a new jewelry collection launching for Fall 2009, and Mimi & Coco.

The fashion department of BWR has recently been retained to launch Charley 5.0 and Rebecca Minkoff Apparel.

Caro Marketing, Dietch PR and Michele Marie PR will all be handling Public Relations and Marketing for Kangol's new apparel launch in the US.

Kravetz & Company Public Relations announces its representation of Lisa Freede Jewelry.

Kwittken & Company announces its representation of The Ana Tzarev Gallery.

Moderne Press announces its representation of Emily Elizabeth Jewelry.

People's Revolution announces its representation of Zadig & Voltaire.

Polly Ryerson PR announces its representation of Cooper Martin, a new medical recovery clothing line, and Cocoon Innovations, a line of tech bags for computers, ipods, Blackberries and other tech gadgets.

Siren PR is pleased to announce its representation of Mrs. Meyer's.

ShopPR announces its representation of Ouidad.

Tractenberg & Co. is pleased to announce its representation of Nieves Lavi.

Williamson PR announces its representation of Paige Novick.

J-Crew Site Crashed During Inauguration Crush

2009-01-21T12:40:00.000-08:00

When news spread on Inauguration Day that the Obama Girls, Sasha and Malia were wearing Crew-cuts, the children's line from J-Crew, I decided to go on to the J-Crew site to take a look at the pieces. Well, millions of other people must have had the same idea because the site was down when I went on. Now I've been a J-Crew shopper for years and the site is never down. I e-mailed a friend that works at J-Crew and she was surprised it was down, but my geek squad confirmed that the site had crashed due to the amount of traffic.

That Mickey Drexler is always one step ahead!!

Layoffs at Lord & Taylor, Saks & Neimans

2009-01-17T18:05:00.000-08:00

Layoffs across the retail industry are accelerating. In just the latest round, Lord & Taylor let go of 170 people on Friday. But more cuts could come soon at L&T as a result of a broad consolidation strategy being formulated by the company's parent, NRDC Equity Partners, involving combining back office functions to save costs and gain efficiencies. NRDC also owns Fortunoff and Creative Design Studios, and in Canada, The Bay, Zellers, Home Outfitters and Fields.

At Lord & Taylor, sources said the job cuts were across the board through the chain and were in addition to the store’s 120 layoffs that occurred last October. Combined, the 290 positions represent about 3.5 percent of the chain’s total workforce of 9,000.

In the midst of the deepening recession, job cuts have become standard procedure at many retail companies. Earlier this week, Neiman Marcus announced 375 job cuts, representing about 3 percent of its workforce.

Even more dramatic was the announcement Thursday at Saks Fifth Avenue that 1,100 jobs at stores and headquarters, or 9 percent of its workforce, is being eliminated. Some of Saks’ more visible figures are departing in the wave of layoffs, including Michael Fink, vice president and women’s fashion director, who’s been a regular at the designer shows, a frequent participant in industry forums and widely quoted in the fashion media.

Also leaving Saks is Leslie Langsam Kennedy, the director of public relations; Gina Giordano, senior vice president and regional director of Saks stores in the Northeast, and Jan Richter, the creative director, who also held the title of senior vice president.

A Saks spokeswoman confirmed the departures and said their duties are being reassigned.

Many Saks sales associates are being let go because the stores are considered overstaffed in light of the dwindling shopping traffic and declining number of transactions in the last several months.

Saks is also cutting inventories and capital expenditures and eliminating merit-based wage increases and 401 [k] matching contributions this year. The company expects to save $50 to $60 million as a result of all the cutbacks.

2009 Buzz Word: Post Racial

2009-01-13T04:05:00.000-08:00

I know we are only 13 days into the new year, but could the word of the year be "post racial", (i know it's two words, but you get my meaning). I was at a comedy club on Saturday Night and the comedian on stage, a black comic, used the term at least 3-4 times in a snippet of his act.
As I was watching the Golden Globes on Sunday I also noticed Tracy Morgan used the term as well. Although Tracy used the term in jest, it got me to thinking. Is a Post-Racial America a better America? Is it a realistic goal for the country?
Tell me what you think

Movie Trailers - Movies Blog

On The Move...

2009-01-10T03:49:00.000-08:00

Paul Deneve, CEO of Lanvin, has left the company.

Nicole Beland, previously features director of Women's Health magazine, has been named executive editor of Cosmo.

Chris McLoughlin, previously publisher of Golf for Women, has been named associate publisher of REDBOOK.

Charlotte Adjchavanich has been named vice president, global public relations, for Jurlique.

Casey Sangmeister has been named manager of U.S. public relations for Jurlique. The company will no longer retain the services of its agency of record, LaForce + Stevens.

Sérgio Pedreiro, previously CFO of América Latina Logistica, has been named CFO of Coty, Inc., following former CFO Michael Fishoff's departure at the end of last month.

Diego Marchioni is the new CEO of KidRobot.

Marissa Rubenstein is now an account executive at Style House PR; she was formerly with Dana Galin Jewelry.

Chelsea O'Donnell has left her position as a senior account supervisor with 5W Public Relations, due to a move to Sydney.

Lauren Branche is now the in-house media & consumer relations manager at Carol's Daughter.

Vanessa Poskanzer has resigned as president of KSVP Media & Events, Inc.

Also...

MML PR announces its representation of NYX Cosmetics,Tela Beauty Organics, Greek yogurt Chobani, makeup artist Christy Coleman and nutritionist Ashley Koff.

Blue Sky Communications announces its represention of ANSR, an at-home phototherapy device for treating acne, created by Oregon Aesthetic Technologies.

Janice McCafferty Communications-Houston announces its representation of LiLash.

Alison Brod Public Relations announces its representation of Liz Lange Maternity and Hanky Panky.

Bismarck Phillips Communications and Media announces its representation of Tadashi Shoji.

Bismarck Phillips Communications and Media, Los Angeles, announces its representation of Hugo Boss and Escada.

Black Frame announces it will be working closely with Nike Sportswear on communications in the United States.

BrandStyle Communications announces its representation of Hunter boots.

Denise Williamson Showroom announces its representation of Raf by Raf Simons.

Laura Henson Consulting announces its representation of Bibhu Mohapatra (former design director of J. Mendel), KIR Jewelry, Robert Comstock Menswear and Armand de Brignac.

Shadow PR announces its representation of Treesje handbags.

Starworks announces its representation of Jasmine di Milo for both PR and celebrity services in the New York and Los Angeles offices.

TLCommunications announces its representation of Yes To Carrots.

Wetherly Fashion Group announces its representation of signed Randi Rahm Couture.

Linda Gaunt Communications is no longer the agency of record for Christian Cota.

FASHION BAILOUT: THE OBAMAS

2009-01-08T17:48:00.000-08:00

Some disappointing news came out today regarding the retail industry. Saks down 19% in December, Neimans down 31% and Chicos down 12%. Retail Sales in December were like being on a bad date and waiting for the check to arrive, retailers could not wait to just pay the bill and move on...fast. Why the rush to close out the season? Some see a retail bailout on the horizon. The Obamas.

Lets start with the girls. Monday was their first day of class at the prestigious Sidwell school. When Sahsa stepped out from the shadows of the presidential motorcade she had on a Primp hoodie. In today's WWD, Primp designer Wells Butler, was quoted as saying, "I screamed when I saw that she had on our peace sign printed hoodie." According to Wells, the hoodie was an exclusive to Bloomingdales, so we now know one of the Obamas favorite stores.

The president-elect has clothes, and it's being made by Hart Schaffner Marx. HSM outfitted Obama for his acceptance speech and fashion insiders, say that the company will also outfit Obama in a tux for the inaugural ball. HSM will also be rolling out an Obama inspired collection this Spring

Now we come to the first lady-elect. She is getting a lot of buzz about her fashion sense, case in point the Nightly News with Brian Williams did a piece on the first lady and how she can single handedly bail out the industry.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

GOING GREEN IS THE NEW GREEN

2009-01-06T13:45:00.000-08:00

It's the new year and the Obama team is working hard to get the nation back on track. The buzz words I keep hearing from the new administration is green job and sustainability. Well, what is a "green job" and what does "sustainability" mean?

I was in 40 carrots, Bloomingdale's yesterday (the best carrot cake in NYC) having lunch with some friends from and we think the next great job growth is going to be in government related jobs and the green industry (sustainability), meaning industries where they produce a product and the by-product is something can be used again OR the materials needed come from "discarded" materials from within the sector.

This got me to thinking, will there be green jobs in the retail industry.

I let my fingers do the walking and came across some retailers that are look at going green to make some green.

Marks & Spencer, the prominent U.K. clothing, food and housewares retailer, launched an ambitious, five-year “eco plan” in January 2007 to force the organization of more than 75,000 workers spread globally to re-think the way it measures, manages and reports on social, environmental and ethical issues. Plan A, as Marks & Spencer calls it, is a voluminous pledge of 100 commitments that challenge the breadth of the organization on issues ranging from climate change, waste, sustainable raw materials, fair partnering and health.

It includes goals for M&S to “become carbon-neutral, send no waste to landfill, extend sustainable sourcing, be a fair trading partner and help our customers and employees to lead healthier lifestyles,” according to CEO Stuart Rose.With 622 stores in the U.K., Marks & Spencer sources goods and services from 2,000 suppliers globally and is pushing an ever-expanding international business portfolio that includes ventures in India, Greece, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia.

Influencing its business partners and suppliers to join in the effort is a tenet of Plan A. Rose says engaging suppliers, customers and employees is part of Plan A’s “virtuous circle” for ideas to advance progress and find solutions.

The company wants its business partners to approach environmental and social issues as opportunities for innovation rather than as a means to achieving rudimentary compliance.

Good for them. Here are some other green articles I came across. Click on the links to read the full story

Green Grows at Retail
Award-winning programs support Kohl’s green mission
Target takes a holistic approach to sustainability
Safeway switches truck fleet to biodiesel
Starbucks program supports ethical practices and sustainability
Wal-Mart brings associates, suppliers and other experts together
REI applies environmental sensibilities to store design
Whole Foods uses green tickets to purchase wind energy
Office Depot utilizes a wide pallet of earth-friendly initiatives
Consumers say they are becoming more environmentally aware – and expect retailers to do the same

Let The Negotiating Begin

2008-12-30T08:57:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-29T11:15:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-24T22:31:00.000-08:00

PLAY TO ENJOY

Financial Education Series: Hedge Funds

2008-12-24T06:25:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-23T20:23:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-20T09:27:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-18T09:54:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-17T09:39:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-15T14:20:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-14T06:48:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-01T10:01:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-28T05:50:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-26T09:04:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-26T05:25:00.002-08:00

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!!!

2008-11-26T05:25:00.001-08:00

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!

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!

2008-11-24T09:59:00.000-08:00

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

On The Move...

2008-11-22T12:18:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-15T09:12:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-11-15T08:33:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-13T01:49:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-11T16:33:00.000-08:00

Holiday Sales may take a Holiday

2008-11-10T16:30:00.000-08:00

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"

2008-11-10T01:58:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-08T22:45:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-11-08T22:36:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-05T20:00:00.000-08:00

New York Time Op-Ed

2008-11-05T19:40:00.000-08:00

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

READ MORE

Oh Yes He Did!

2008-11-05T11:47:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS ON A JOB WELL DONE!

YES HE CAN!

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

2008-11-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

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

2008-10-31T12:14:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-31T11:49:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-29T12:18:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-25T04:45:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

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."

THE CHURN

2008-10-20T07:29:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-16T20:52:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

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

HONOREE PROFILE: PATRICK ROBINSON

2008-10-16T02:21:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-10-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

excerpt from Mike Albo's New York Times Article:

I HAVE rarely seen someone as crazy and as determined as the Italian mother who jostled me in the Gap flagship store in Midtown. She bumped into me as she snatched up a pair of tan cargo pants. She went over to her teenage son and threw them at him. He exhaled furiously — the international sign for “God, Mom, whatever!” — and went to the dressing room. Then, to my right, a Frenchman wheeled a baby carriage onto my foot until I moved out of his way.

There must have been 100 Europeans in this store: men wearing sweaters tied around their shoulders, women wearing sunglasses inside, entire families chattering and pointing. All of them had rapacious looks in their eyes because they knew time is money. They needed to buy as much as possible before the increasingly global financial meltdown turned their powerful euros into a currency as pathetic as, well, the United States dollar.
But ... Gap? At first it was difficult to understand why the Eurofolk were so intense about this place. It leaves the bland taste of the 1990s in my mouth. I see the square blue sign, and it calls to mind Helen Hunt on “Mad About You,” sitting on a puffy couch in comfy khakis and a big, shapeless chambray shirt, holding a huge mug of tea with both hands. When Gap was at its peak of influence, Seinfeld was a style icon. Blech.

But Gap is on a mission to lure us back, hiring the sharp, youthful designer Patrick Robinson to revamp the line. His designs started showing up in stores last spring. Maybe the Eurofolk are on to something.

Walking into the giant store, I could see the revamping effort. The space was brightly lighted, cool music was playing, huge photos of Hugh Dancy and the sexily scarred hockey star S. Avery were on the walls, and the mannequins wore hip outfits in layered combinations I wanted to wear — especially one tweed jacket, sleeves pushed up.

A lot of the merchandise invites you to try it on right there on the floor, like a warm charcoal cable knit cardigan ($138), a leather bomber ($298) or a hip-length cargo jacket on sale for $49.99. This was a total of about 360 euros, and if I were a literature grad student visiting from Strasbourg, I would have bought all three and then gone home and worn them while smoking loose tobacco cigarettes and reading Houellebecq.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE

HONOREE PROFILE: WILLIAM HAWTHRONE

2008-10-14T19:39:00.000-07:00

I was at an event at the W Hotel a few months ago and I had the pleasure of meeting Bill Hawthrone. The one thing I recalled from our conversation was that I did most of the talking and Bill did a lot of listening. One of my former VPs use to say you have one mouth and 2 ears, so listen twice as much as you speak. Mr. Hawthrone has been a success because he listens. It's easy to understand why BRAG is honoring him this year.
Here is what we know about Bill Hawthrone.

Mr. Hawthorne joined Macy's, Inc. (then Federated Department Stores) in 1990. He currently serves in the capacity of Corporate Vice President, Diversity Strategies and Legal Affairs and is a member of the Corporate Management Team. Mr. Hawthorne has corporate wide responsibility for overseeing diversity strategies and handles substantive legal matters as assigned by the General Counsel.

Macy’s, Inc., with corporate offices in Cincinnati and New York, stands as the nation’s largest department store retailer, with fiscal 2007 sales at $27 billion. Macy’s, Inc. operates 863 department stores in 49 states, the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico. The company also operates Bloomingdale’s, Macy's.com, Bloomingdale's.com and Bloomingdale’s by Mail. Macy’s, Inc. is dedicated to building the company one customer at a time by molding brands around the needs, wants and aspirations of its diverse customer base.

Prior to his current role, Mr. Hawthorne served in the Law Department of Macy’s, Inc. in the roles of Divisional Vice President and National Practice Leader. His responsibilities included the oversight of most of the Company's legal matters arising in the Midwest and Southeast. In addition, he had national responsibility for coordinating dispute resolution and litigation strategies for the Company.

Mr. Hawthorne is a former attorney for the City of Atlanta Solicitor’s Office and served as a trial attorney for the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office. As a prosecutor, he was the lead trial attorney in several high profile cases including the successful prosecution of a death penalty case.
Mr. Hawthorne also has significant teaching experience. He served for many years as an instructor for the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) at Emory University School of Law and as an adjunct professor of Business Law in the MBA program at the Atlanta University. He has served numerous times as a panelist and speaker on topics of litigation management, early case assessment, dispute resolution, and Diversity Strategies in corporate and legal arenas.
Mr. Hawthorne has served on philanthropic and industry boards, served as Chair of the Labor and Employment Section of the American Corporate Counsel Association (ACCA). He is a current Board Member and Committee Chair of the Minority Corporate Counsel Association (MCCA).

Mr. Hawthorne is an Honors Graduate of Morehouse College and earned a Doctor of Law degree from the Emory University School of Law. Mr. Hawthorne resides in Atlanta with his wife, D'anna, and their children.

Oscar: Mark Ingram Knows How To Sell A Gown

2008-10-14T06:45:00.000-07:00

The Bridal Atelier owned by Mark Ingram is known for paying attention to a woman on the most important day of her life; her wedding day. Now the shop, which is located at 110 E. 55th St in New York City is being recognized for something else. The staff along with Mark (pictured here) was given a huge thumbs up and a "Thank You" from Oscar de la Renta for being able to sell a large volume of the Oscar de la Renta bridal gowns.

The Bridal shop, which has been open since 2002, is known has the "chic" place to buy a gown. The price tags range from $5,000 to $14,000, making the ability for Mark and his staff to sell such volumes all the more impressive.

As those prices grooms better be careful not get cake on them.

Macy's in Harlem

2008-10-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

As the Real Estate market drops around the country there is one place that the commercial real estate market seems to be booming...Harlem. According to the Real Estate Board of New York the average price per square foot in Harlem is $107, an increase from $103 per sq ft last year. This is still below the $113/sq ft in the Bronx and far below the $300 average price per sq. ft in some areas of Manhattan.

One company that is taking note of this is Macy's Inc. The Herald Square store has a huge amount of Harlem residents that travel south to shop at Macy's and it would make sense to have a Macy's in Harlem. Sources at Macy's have declined to comment on whether or not they've looked at Harlem as a possible option, but it would be a great way to solidify the Macy's Inc anchor on the island of Manhattan with the Bloomingdales store in Soho.

If Macy's is not interested in Harlem other retailers should take note. Harlem is now the place for cool, hip tastemakers that like the urban setting as the backdrop for their lifestyle. So much so the West Side side of Harlem is now being labeled the next Meatpacking District.

For those retailers that are taking note there is a 31,000 sq ft lot on 125th and Lenox. Saks 5th Ave...Saks Lenox Ave, has a certain ring to it.

HONOREE PROFILE: HARRIETTE COLE

2008-10-13T14:04:00.000-07:00

As the team puts the final touches on the larger than life Gala for Friday night I couldn't help but be inspired by Harriette. She spoke at an event I attended a few years ago at Lord & Taylor, and the one thing I remember her telling the group was to be true to yourself. Her book "How to Be" is a must read for all young people. With that here is a little info about Harriette Cole.

Harriette Cole wrote the book on contemporary etiquette and life coaching—literally. As President and Creative Director of a New York-based life coaching company, Harriette Cole Productions, Cole has devoted her life to helping people discover how to cultivate their inherent ability to present themselves effectively. Harriette’s signature approach was developed over the course of many years of working in the fields of presentation, style and writing. She has performed life styling for a broad range of organizations, including Kraft Foods, Sara Lee Corporation, Cornell University, the National Urban League and the NAACP. Her training has supported the entertainment industry on behalf of such recording industry giants as Universal Records, J Records, Motown and Def Jam. She has worked directly with many notable recording artists including Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, Carl Thomas and teen pop sensation JoJo. Harriette has coached many forward-thinking members of the general population—from children in extra-curricular educational programs to women who are making their transition from welfare to work.

Among Harriette’s many accomplishments are her best-selling books that support daily living. Harriette wrote the preeminent African-American wedding planner, Jumping the Broom and its companion, Jumping the Broom Wedding Workbook (Henry Holt & Co.) Later, she penned a guide to living with grace and integrity, How to Be (Simon & Schuster). In 2003, she published two more books: Choosing Truth: Living an Authentic Life (Simon & Schuster), a general-market book designed to encourage people to pursue rigorously honest lives and Coming Together (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, with photographer John Pinderhughes), an activity book for African-American children and families, created to inspire meaningful interaction. A second edition of Jumping the Broom (Henry Holt), along with a new wedding book focused on designing a sacred ceremony, entitled Vows (Simon & Schuster) were released in February 2004.

Harriette is currently the creative director of EBONY, the oldest and largest African American magazine in the world. As creative director, she works with the leadership of Johnson Publishing Company to refresh the visual presentation of the publication. She also oversees the production of all fashion, beauty and lifestyle pages. In addition to her editorial work, Harriette has significant experience in radio and television. She served as the host of PULSE, a magazine-format talk show on XM Satellite Radio’s Take Five, 155. PULSE addressed points of interest to a largely female audience including parenting, entertaining, fashion, personal finance and of course, relationship management and etiquette. In television, Harriette served as the relationship expert on the popular ABC Family Channel reality series "Perfect Match - NY."

She makes her home in Harlem, New York City, with her husband George Chinsee, a fashion and beauty photographer and their daughter, Carrie Emmanuelle.

You Go Harriette!!!!

SEE FULL BIO HERE

THE TASTEMAKERS: Elle's Personal Style Awards

2008-10-13T06:56:00.000-07:00

Elle.com has come up with its list of Fashion Tastemakers and it's a very diverse list of the people that turn heads wherever they go.

There is heir to Rock & Roll royalty, Zoe Kravitz.

Rihanna (above) can really take a bow because she was chosen for her boyish good looks & style

The Latinas who we love Eva Mendes, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Alba, & America Ferrera (above) deserve a raised glass; which reminds me Ugly Betty is now filming in NY City (fashionistas be on the look-out for filming at your favorite store; hint-hint)

Our favorite model and past BRAG Honoree Naomi Campbell tops the super-model category

Rinko Kikuchi (pictured above) is one to watch; in and out of Chanel

Congrats to the tastemakers and congrats to Elle for a list that represents the diverse taste around the world

See the Complete List Here

THE CHURN

2008-10-12T06:40:00.000-07:00

There is this belief that retail/fashion changes don't happen after October. We'll see, as the world churns...

Joseph M. Schmidt has been named president of Dick's Sporting Goods, effective in February. Vice president of operations and chief operating officer since February, Schmidt will replace Edward W. Stack.

Brendan Hoffman, former CEO of Neiman Marcus Direct, was named CEO of Lord & Taylor, replacing long time CEO Jane Elfers.

Francesco Russo, formerly footwear designer at Yves Saint Laurent, has been named creative director of Sergio Rossi.

Matteo Morandi has been named general manager of watches and licenses for Morellato & Sector SpA.

Glen S. Lyon, president of The Finish Line, Inc., has been named chief executive officer, effective December 1.

Rayna Greenberg has been promoted to account executive in Alison Brod PR's beauty division.

Ashley Berg, formerly of Kravetz & Company, has been hired as a senior account executive in Alison Brod PR's lifestyle division.

Sarah Cunningham has left the music and celebrity division at Susan Blond, Inc. to pursue new opportunities.

Francesca Simons, formerly of Shadow PR, has been named account executive at Kravetz and Company.

Thierry Falque-Pierrotin, head of the Redcats mail order division of French retail group PPR, has resigned, effective at the end of the year.

Bernard Manuel, chairman of Cygne Designs Inc. has resigned.

Paul Wilmot Communications announces its U.S. representation of Zufi Alexander handbags and shoes.

The Shop PR announces its representation of Eco-Ganik.

HONOREE PROFILE: ROBERT CHAVEZ

2008-10-10T12:05:00.000-07:00

There are 3 things a woman wants before she has to think about her bucket list...something expensive in that little blue box with a white bow, a trip to Tuscany (alone) and a Hermes handbag. Not since the Babyface CD (you know the one with "Whip Appeal") has a product been so sought after by woman of all backgrounds. It was that compelling factor that made us at BRAG think of Robert Chavez when we decided to honor those who have done so much under the theme, Common Threads...enjoy the bio and we'll see you all next Friday Night.

Robert Chavez was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Hermès of Paris, Inc. in the United States in August 2000.
A native of San Antonio, Texas, Chavez is a graduate of Princeton University. In 1977, he joined the Executive Training Program at Bloomingdale’s in New York City, and took on the role of Assistant Buyer in the Cosmetics department. Shortly after, he became a Buyer in the Home Furnishings area.
In 1986, Chavez served as Merchandise Administrator for Cosmetics and Fragrances at Macy’s. As head of the department, he increased sales and profitability dramatically, and was appointed Senior Vice President of Merchandising in 1989. By 1991, he was promoted to President of Merchandising and oversaw several departments that included Fashion Accessories, Shoes and Ready to Wear.
Chavez joined Etienne Aigner as Chief Executive Officer in 1992. He was instrumental in Etienne Aigner’s significant increase in growth and profitability. During his tenure, Chavez implemented his strategy by enhancing the value of the Etienne Aigner brand and products, building faithful relationships with Aigner’s customers, and by creating a unique philosophy of team spirit that emphasizes strong collegial support within the organization.
As President and Chief Executive Officer of Hermès of Paris, Inc., Chavez oversees all business aspects in the United States including the Retail and Wholesale divisions. Under his direction, Hermès became the premier luxury house to lead in the revitalization of lower Manhattan with the opening of a new store on Wall Street in June of 2007 followed shortly thereafter by a Bergen County opening in December. His vision for Hermès through 2009 includes store openings in San Diego, Denver, Seattle, King of Prussia and a second store in Las Vegas.
Chavez’s outstanding service and achievements have been recognized by numerous institutions, universities, industries, and cultural and philanthropic organizations. He is committed to various causes that include the March of Dimes, God’s Love We Deliver and the Luxury Education Foundation.
Robert Chavez resides in Manhattan and Millbrook, New York.

DIVERSITY INC ACKNOWLEDGES BRAG

2008-10-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

In the September Issue of Diversity Inc. there was a great article about Retailers and their vision for 21st Century Recruiting and catering to a 21st Century Customer. BRAVO to Target, Stop & Shop, Limited Brands and a big applause to Best Buy for the great recruitment ads. Below is an excerpt from the article which had a great quote from BRAG President Gary Lampley.

SHOPPING FOR TALENT
“Employers that want to succeed need to embrace a diverse work force,” says Jeffrey Humphreys, director of the Selig Center at the University of Georgia Terry College of Business. “You must have people working for you who
reflect your target markets.” Indeed, smart retailers are casting their recruiting nets far and wide to search for employees who demographically represent the communities where they do business.

One organization that’s helping to steer multicultural talent toward retailing is BRAG (Black Retail Action Group). This New York-based nonprofit, formed to promote Blacks in the industry, provides one-on-one mentoring, networking, employment opportunities and scholarships to college students. The College Club, Created at the Fashion Institute of Technology, the program has now expanded to other schools, including Howard University and The Laboratory Institute of Merchandising.
Groups such as BRAG are also trying to stem the tide of attrition within the retail industry. Reportedly as high as 25 percent, this is one of the biggest and most costly challenges facing retail managers. One way to retain and motivate associates is to constantly communicate the opportunities for professional growth and development. For this reason, BRAG recently launched its Executive Development Series, a three-session interactive workshop
developed to help top performers climb the retail industry ladder.
“Diversity in our industry used to be about what you could or couldn’t do legally,” says BRAG President Gary Lampley. “Now we’re addressing the issue from a different perspective: how to co-exist within an organization so that every voice is heard and everyone thrives.”

courtesy Diversity Inc

HONOREE PROFILE: GILLES BENSIMON

2008-10-09T06:58:00.000-07:00

In case you've been under a rock since the 1970s, the 38th BRAG Awards Ceremony is next Friday night (10/17). If you've never been to a BRAG Awards event then you are missing out on one the most talked about event in the Retail/Fashion industry. As a tribute to the event we will profile an Honoree each day here in the BRAG blog leading up to the event. Today we profile Gilles (pronounced like the French Jeel) Bensimon

As International Creative Director of ELLE, Gilles Bensimon oversees creative ventures for ELLE’s 39 international editions. Previously, as Publication Director, Bensimon’s creative vision, photographic eye, and business savvy helped ELLE become one of the most relevant and provocative fashion magazines in the United States.
Bensimon’s photographic genius beautifully captures the essence of the ELLE woman—intelligent, with an independent spirit and individual style. A favorite among top celebrities and models, Bensimon takes photographs for ELLE’s 39 international editions, making him one of the most published photographers in the world. His long association with the magazine began when he partnered with ELLE’s founder, Hélène Lazareff, in Paris in 1967. Today, through the pages of ELLE, his work reaches 21 million readers on six continents.
In the world of international fashion photography, Gilles Bensimon is a rarity. He is a major artistic talent who not only established the creative direction of a leading women’s magazine but also took most of its photographs. This born observer takes in everything and misses nothing. His special sense for ambiance and mood has resulted in many priceless moments captured on film.
The fashion world’s ongoing admiration for Bensimon was again illustrated in 2005, when he received the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Eugenia Sheppard Award for excellence in fashion journalism. Bensimon’s stature in the fashion world is also demonstrated by the fact that a photography session with him has been the coveted prize awarded the winners of hit TV reality shows Project Runway and America’s Next Top Model.
Bensimon’s aesthetic has dazzled the world for nearly three decades. Now, as International Creative Director, Bensimon is poised to make a more personal contribution, by shaping the look and content of the international ELLE publications where his unique photographs have been featured for years.

On the Trail with Michelle Obama's Fashion

2008-10-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

Not since Jackie O has a politician's wife garnered so much attention from the fashion industry. A Spring issue of Vogue called her the "It" Girl. Well Michelle Obama, fist bump and all has the fashion industry abuzz. It's not just the style that has us watching, it's the admittance of what she spends on her wardrobe. Faux pearls, $50. Tory Burch inspired flats, $35. Belted Dress from "The Barn", $80. Having all this in a walk-in closet at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, priceless!

Neiman Marcus- Home For The Holidays

2008-10-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

DALLAS - The stock markets are sinking and fears of recession are rising, but Neiman Marcus carries on.
The luxury retailer unveiled its Christmas Book on Tuesday and made surprisingly few concessions to the financial crisis.
Among this year's offerings: a $160,000 limited-edition BMW sedan; a $1 million three-hole golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus' team and a chance to play the first round with Nicklaus; and his and her life-size sculptures made out of Legos for $60,000 each.

WOW...Neiman Marcus is very aspirational. Well I guess the CEOs from AIG and Lehman Brothers can afford it. Now wonder they did $600 Million in On-line sales last year...That's why we love this business of retail.

BRAG BLOG: BACK FROM FISHING

2008-10-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

So, the summer vacation is over and the BRAG Blog is back in action
If you have story ideas or would like to post something on the BLOG please email stories to michaelbrown@bragusa.org

HUMAN INTONATION new TEES

2008-08-21T18:31:00.000-07:00

Greetings Everyone!

"The NEW H.I." - HUMAN INTONATION is pleased to
announce the launch of the website www.humanintonation.com

While the first apparel collection will be ready for sale this coming Fall 2008 following a successful launch on 2 July 2008 H.I. is excited to give everyone a closer look at the mission and passion of HUMAN INTONATION. "The NEW H.I." is dedicated to Translating the values and principles of growing non-profits through the creative
element of fashion as a medium for building social awareness and inspiring consumers to 'give back' as a lifestyle."

Please visit www.humanintonation.com to learn more about who they are and how to connect to their non-profit partners.
Also check out a few FASHIONABLY SOPHISTICATED Tees coming your way this fall!

Thanks for your continued support and please check out H.I. HUMAN
INTONATION on Facebook!

UP NEXT! Creative Director, Verneda White will be featured as a Young
Philanthropist SPOTLIGHT in an up coming issue of www.CharityHappenings.org

US Aplologizes to Blacks; China notices

2008-07-31T19:38:00.000-07:00

As BRAG was reading the world papers on Tuesday we noticed that China was running the "US Apologizes To Blacks" as its lead story. In case you were busy with putting out Fall Merchandise or Allocating Sportswear to your Jersey doors and missed the story well here it is:

Washington - The House on Tuesday issued an unprecedented apology to black Americans for the wrongs committed against them and their ancestors who suffered under slavery and Jim Crow segregation laws. "Today represents a milestone in our nation's efforts to remedy the ills of our past," said Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, D-Mich., chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus.

The resolution, passed by voice vote, was the work of Tennessee Democrat Steve Cohen, the only white lawmaker to represent a majority black district. Cohen faces a formidable black challenger in a primary face-off next week.

It says that Africans forced into slavery "were brutalized, humiliated, dehumanized and subjected to the indignity of being stripped of their names and heritage" and that black Americans today continue to suffer from the consequences of slavery and Jim Crow laws that fostered discrimination and segregation.

The House "apologizes to African-Americans on behalf of the people of the United States, for the wrongs committed against them and their ancestors who suffered under slavery and Jim Crow."

"Slavery and Jim Crow are stains upon what is the greatest nation on the face of the earth," Cohen said. Part of forming a more perfect union, he said, "is such a resolution as we have before us today where we face up to our mistakes and apologize as anyone should apologize for things that were done in the past that were wrong."

WOW!! We applaud the efforts of the House, but those that know us at BRAG it's all about the action.

BREAKING NEWS: Lord & Taylor Buys Hudson's Bay Co. of Canada

2008-07-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

New York, NY - Hudson's Bay Co., Canada's oldest retailer, has been bought by the U.S. parent company of the distinguished Lord & Taylor chain.
The acquisition by NRDC Equity Partners of Purchase, N.Y., which unites North America's two oldest department stores under the same corporate structure, will see upscale Lord & Taylor launch 10 to 15 stores throughout Canada.
"Currently there is a gap in the Canadian retail landscape between The Bay department stores and Holt Renfrew," said a joint news release from NRDC and Hudson's Bay Co., which owns The Bay, Zellers, Home Outfitters and Fields retail chains.
"Lord & Taylor will be ideally positioned to fill this consumer demand and will be located in prime locations through existing HBC real estate properties or within existing flagship Bay stores." The value of the deal was not disclosed.
Rumours of a possible sale had been circulating since April after the death of South Carolina magnate Jerry Zucker, who bought HBC in 2006 for $1.1-billion.

NY Times & Industry Recognizes the Plight Of Black Models

2008-06-19T05:13:00.000-07:00

RACIAL prejudice in the fashion industry has long persisted because of tokenism and lookism. “We already have our black girl,” says a designer to a fashion-show casting agent, declining to see others. Or: “She doesn’t have the right look.” Laziness, paranoia and pedantry may also have something to do with the failure to hire black models for shows and magazine features in any meaningful number, but, hey, that’s just a guess.
A decade ago the thing to deplore was the stereotyping of black models by dressing them in African-inspired clothes (or the Asian girls in kimonos). This at least gave work to minority models, but it also encouraged a Western view of African culture of the many-bangles-many-beads variety.
O.K., so fashion ain’t deep. It looks into a mirror and sees ... itself. The irony in fashion is that it loves change but it can’t actually change anything. It can only reflect a change in the air. But what changes fashion? What would finally move American designers to include more black models on their runways? That 30 percent of the country is nonwhite? That black women spend $20 billion a year on clothes? That an African-American is the presumptive presidential nominee of the Democratic Party?
The answer is the individual eye.

(Cathy Horyn - NY Times)
CLICK HERE TO READ FULL ARTICLE

Passing Strange at The Tony Awards

2008-06-15T18:24:00.000-07:00

When the BRAG group choose Passing Strange as the play to see for the night out on the town there was not much media buzz surrounding the play. Then the tipping point came. The night BRAG was going to see the play Charles Isherwood of the New York Times gave it a stellar review. Isherwood said it was "wonderful, and a welcome anomaly on Broadway". He also thought Passing Strange gave Broadway "vigorous new artistic blood". The BRAG group saw it that night and we knew Broadway had a hit on its hands.

Hit was an understatement. After receiving 7 Tony Nominations and giving a great performance at the Tony Awards, Stew took home the Tony for Best Book of A Musical.

CONGRATULATIONS!

PASSING STRANGE INFO

CLICK HERE TO SEE NOMINATION LIST

H.I. - HUMAN INTONATION TO LAUNCH IN JULY

2008-06-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

Letter to BRAG Members from Verenda White SAVE THE DATE - 2 JULY 2008!
It is amazing how much time has past and thanks to all of you for the support as I completed my MBA International Business over the last 15 months. I have returned to New York from London and have an exciting new venture to share with you.
This summer I am pleased to announce the re-launch of my apparel brand under the new name H.I. - HUMAN INTONATION (TM). For those of you who may remember my original Katrina is Still Here: Hands On New Orleans T-shirt Fundraiser, I am NOW moving forward with an expanded sustainable business using fashion to raise awareness as well as donations for multiple social causes and growing non-profits such as the Darfur Peace & Development Org (http://www.dpdo.org/).
"The NEW H.I." - HUMAN INTONATION brand launch will take place on JULY 2nd 2008 in Tribeca (New York City) and will include a showcase of the new t-shirts in a high fashion show and a live music performance from the up and coming hip-hop group True2Life Music. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit non-profit Hands On New Orleans (http://www.handsonneworleans.org/)
Feel free to email me back with any questions or to forward this information, and I hope to see at this FASHIONABLY SOPHISTICATED event! E-mailmailto:verneda@vernedaadele.com

best, Verneda White

CNN To Talk about Being Black In America

2008-06-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

CNN will be airing a series on Being Black In America.
In this next installment of CNN's Black in America series, Soledad O'Brien examines the successes, struggles and complex issues faced by black men, women and families -- 40 years after the death of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Watch
July 23rd & 24th

Click Here To View Video

Sean John & Ciroc Partner to Honor BRAG

2008-06-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

Prof. Gary Lampley (BRAG President), Marti Moore (VP- Lord & Taylor) & Laticha Brown (Bloomingdales Direct)
Jeff Tweedy of Sean John
Bill Hawthorne - Macy's Inc & B. Oyama

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

June (NY) - Sean John and Ciroc Vodka teamed up at the W Hotel on the East Side to celebrate the 2008 BRAG Honorees. The 2008 Dinner Gala is still 4 months away, but the night was a buzz with the excitement surrounding the honorees. It was a night that saw the likes of Audrey Smalls of the Ground Crew and Howard Watts of Fox come out to meet and mingle with the group. The night was definitely a preview of whats to come in October.

GOLD PRICES LEAD TO THEFT AT PENNEYS

2008-05-19T18:19:00.000-07:00

In a sign of the times thieves have been going for the gold. Thieves in California have been hitting across state an making off with gold.
The first break-in took place in September 2006, when gold was selling for about $587 an ounce. The thieves lay low until last December before striking again, perhaps enticed by the price of gold hovering around $800 an ounce. As the price of the precious metal continued to zoom to more than $1,000 an ounce, the thieves' activity increased until they had stolen about $2.5 million worth of gold jewelry from 11 JCPenney stores throughout California. 2.5 million dollars!!! WOW!

Click Here for Full Story

The Churn

2008-05-17T03:30:00.000-07:00

Melissa Skoog resigns from Prada to launch luxury e-commerce site

Nina Garcia, currently editor-at-large at Elle, has been named fashion director of Marie Claire effective September 2.

Nora Cranley, associate West Coast fashion editor at Flaunt, is now at Contour Image, a division of Getty Images. Keren Eldad, previously fashion advertising director at Surface, is now at the L.A. Times.

Constance Darrow has been named president of creative direction at Vera Wang. She was most recently president of Prada's U.S. division.

Claus-Dietrich Lahrs, currently managing director of Christian Dior Couture, has been named CEO at Hugo Boss, effective August 1.

Robert Gardner , formerly vice president of sales for Maidenform's department store business, has been named general manager of the Donna Karan and DKNY women's intimate apparel license with Maidenform.

Caroline Pieper-Vogt has been promoted to senior vice president of sales and marketing for My Blend by Olivier Courtin, M.D. She was previously senior VP of marketing for the Clarins brand.

Danyelle Boilard-Paul has been named senior vice president of sales and marketing for Clarins Fragrance Group. She was previously senior VP of sales there.

Lindsay Krauss, currently public relations manager at Aeffe USA, Inc. for Moschino, Pollini, and Basso & Brooke, is leaving to become director of public relations and media development at Joan Lunden Productions.

Denise Seegal, president of VF Corporation's Sportswear Coalition, has left the company.

Kate Foster, formerly associate vice president marketing and public relations for Victoria's Secret Beauty, has been named VP of PR and media at Ann Taylor.

Danielle Martinetti, formerly of Nike Communications, has joined Luxottixa Group as Retail Sun public relations manager.

Mary Lawton has been named press and publicity manager at Diesel; she was previously a senior account executive at Factory PR.

Maddy Platt, currently at Finch & Partners, is leaving to join high net worth concierge company representation of Laura Elizabeth Jewelry.

Krimson By Kwame Makes Oprah's Favorite List

2008-05-13T16:26:00.000-07:00

One sure fire way for a brand to catapult itself into the stratosphere is to make it on to"Oprah's Favorite Things" list. Well the team at BRAG has the scope that Krimson by Kwame had made the Father's Day List of Oprah's Favs. CONGRATS KWAME...let us know how the air is up there in the stratosphere.

BRAG sits down with Kwame Jackson

2008-05-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Getting to Know Kwame Jackson
“We have our whole lives to be ordinary, and only a few fleeting moments to be extraordinary”, says Kwame Jackson, former finalist on Season 1 of NBC’S highly rated series The Apprentice. With his continued success as an entrepreneur, professional speaker and media personality, Kwame has just added designer to his list of accomplishments. Kwame took time out to discuss the development of his budding brand Krimson, and gave BRAG some interesting facts about his career.

BRAG: With such a successful career in business what sparked your interest in fashion and design?
Kwame: I don’t consider my career extraordinarily successful quite yet. I’m just like everyone who is reading this, but I just happen to go on a highly rated TV program and have a very high appetite for risk and challenge. I really just went with the natural flow; my parents went to college so I went to college. I worked for some great corporations and obtained my MBA from Harvard. I really kind of followed the standard education and corporate path up until my 30s.
While on The Apprentice people would compliment me on my suits and ties, so instead of endorsing someone else’s brand I decided to create my own brand specifically targeted towards the modern Generation X professional. That’s how Krimson came about. We test marketed the line at Rothman’s clothing store in 2004, but since I didn’t have someone to really run the brand and captain the project, I put it on the back burner to focus on my television and real estate projects. Since The Apprentice in 2004, I’ve been on the professional speaker lecture circuit completing more than 250 engagements for corporations, colleges, and civic groups worldwide, while speaking in Cincinnati, OHI was approached by my fraternity brother and seasoned neckwear entrepreneur, Corwyn Thomas of Corwyn Apparel, and we re-launched Krimson in 2007 with a luxury online boutique at http://www.krimsonbykwame.com/ and national department store distribution.

BRAG: Tell us a little about your brand, any significance in the name Krimson?
Kwame: Krimson is considered executive neckwear, not simply ties. These are symbols you wear to close the deal or make something happen, your classic yet contemporary “power ties.” Young business professionals have trouble finding pieces that aren’t too avant garde or too over the top “urban.” Krimson offers them just enough unique edge and flare to show their Generation X personality, but still be suitable for the most conservative of boardrooms. The brand is Brooks Brothers Classic meets contemporary cool. Krimson focuses on being the brand of the modern man. The consumer is between the ages of 25-40, middle market, mid career professionals climbing the corporate ladder. As far as the name, the K in Krimson comes from my name Kwame. The color crimson comes from my days at Harvard Business School. The classic, dapper Harvard well dressed turn of the century students you see in the Great Gatsby or Harlem Renaissance period inspired the name. In addition, I was inspired by the rich history of well-dressed professional men of achievement and the colors of my fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi, which includes great men like Arthur Ashe, Reginald Lewis, and Bob Johnson.

BRAG: You were known as the no nonsense team leader on The Apprentice, do you find yourself using any of the techniques you learned on the show in your brand development?
Kwame: Well, many don’t know that before appearing on The Apprentice I worked for Procter & Gamble and on Wall Street as a private client investment manager at Goldman Sachs. This is where I developed my marketing skills and cosmopolitan sense of professional dress. Having such men as Bob Johnson, Reginald Lewis, and Arthur Ashe as my fraternity brothers provided such a wonderful example of men doing positive things and projecting well heeled professional brands. Although I learned a lot from The Apprentice and remain thankful for that experience, it mainly provided me with two things: an international platform and a natural boost of confidence to become an entrepreneur.

BRAG: Where do you see the Krimson brand going in 2, 5, and 10 years from now?
Kwame: This question brings to mind the story I discussed with BRAG’S own JJ Thomas. Mr. Thomas recalls the day some 40 yrs ago when the young Ralph Lauren walked into the Bloomingdales store with just his collection of ties, and today Ralph Lauren is a multi-billion dollar global luxury brand. So my goal is to recreate that same magic with humility and hardwork, shoot for the stars and offer a unique customer experience and brand for a more contemporary professional. I’m a young, focused entrepreneur using his neckwear line to build a global luxury brand. Currently the Krimson line has been picked up by two major department stores, MACY’S and Belk. Within the next two years I hope to have the line in 10 major department stores. Within the next 5 years I want Krimson to have international distribution and recognition as a luxury lifestyle brand. Within 10 years I want Krimson to be a force in the industry. I want the brand to grow into luxury lifestyle products in men’s accessories, clothing for men, women, fragrances, etc. I want to emulate the success of upstart neckwear brands like Vineyard Vines. Two recent college graduates who started off in 1999 selling the Martha’s Vineyard lifestyle with just ties now gross $40 million dollars annually less than a decade later. I want to build a similar type of brand experience and expansion success.

BRAG: If you could give some advice to an aspiring “Kwame Jackson” what would that piece of advice be?
Kwame: I always say “I’m not where I want to be, but I’m headed in the right direction!” So from a humility standpoint, I know there is still much wood to chop and don’t consider myself as someone to emulate quite yet - we all have our mountains to climb! I recommend that you be yourself, do the best with the skills you have. You might not want to be a designer you may want to find the cure for AIDS, tap into your greatest passion. I always say “Don’t be me, be your best you.” Focus on your personal happiness. Be true to your own dreams, define your own happiness, turn down the noise of the haters, and learn from your mistakes. Vivian Stringer, Head Coach of the Rutgers Women’s Basketball team said,”…In order to win, you have to be willing to lose!” Don’t be afraid to try, fail, and get back up again. Perseverance is key! I live and learn that everyday and pray that GOD continues to give me the fortitude (and assistance from BRAG’s retail influencers!) to keep going towards my dreams.

Join BRAG on Wednesday, May 14, 2008 for our general membership meeting featuring Kwame Jackson. You may log onto www.bragusa.org for more information or to RSVP. Or call 212-319-7751.

KANICHIWA: Overseas The Next Push for Retailers and Designers

2008-04-24T07:08:00.000-07:00

With the US economy in a free fall the industry is looking to make up revenue for their off-line business on-line and overseas. Tory Burch and Richard Baker of Lord & Taylor are just a few of the industry insiders that think overseas expansion is in the near future.

Tory Overseas (read more)

Lord & Taylor overseas

The Churn

2008-04-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

Delphine Arnault-Gancia, formerly senior vice president of marketing at Dior, has been promoted to deputy managing director, a newly created position.

Serge Jureidini, formerly president of the Designer Fragrances Group at L'Oréal USA, has been named president of Lancôme U.S. Jureidini replaces Eric Lauzat, who has held the post since May 2005.

Teril Turner, formerly director of marketing at Henri Bendel, is now vice president of special events and public relations at Bergdorf Goodman.

Katherine Armenta, formerly bookings editor at Vogue, has joined NathanEgan Interiors design firm.

Valerie Boster, formerly market editor at Vogue, is now bookings editor.

Devon Schuster, formerly a fashion assistant at Vogue, has been promoted to associate market editor.

Meirav Devash, formerly articles editor at Allure, is now deputy editor at In Style Specials.

Anthony Cuthberston, formerly creative director of Burlington's new fashion line, joined René Lezard overseeing the men's and women's collections in the same capacity.

Elizabeth Spiers, launch editor of Gawker.com, has joined Fortune as a contributing writer.

Kate Bolick, formerly features editor at Domino, has been promoted to executive editor.

Geri Schachner, formerly vice president of global communications at Estée Lauder Inc., has been promoted to senior VP of global communications.

Lori Tesoro has been named director of public relations at Kate Spade.

Ellen Asmodeo, formerly publisher of Travel + Leisure, is now at The Wall Street Journal's WSJ in the same capacity.

Karlie Kayser has been named communications associate for the Food Network program Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade. She was formerly event coordinator at Seventh House PR.

Juliana Ribeiro, formerly a publicist at Teen Vogue, is now at Black Frame.

Alicia Pantano, formerly jewelry account executive at Krupp Group, has been promoted to jewelry account manager.

Fallon Nemirovsky, formerly public relations coordinator at John Hardy, is now a jewelry account executive at Krupp Group.

Factory PR adds Black Halo to its women's fashion group.

LORD AND TAYLOR RE-LAUNCHES ITS LEGENDARY ROSE

2008-04-12T06:12:00.000-07:00

LORD AND TAYLOR RE-LAUNCHES ITS LEGENDARY ROSE TO THE DELIGHT OF MANY ARTISTS ARE ASKED TO SUBMIT DESIGNS FOR NEXT SPRING'S VERSION APRIL 1-MAY 26

To the delight of many, Lord and Taylor, America's favorite store, has re-launched its iconic Rose, first introduced in the 1940s and now re-created and re-colored in "sunrise," the extraordinary mixture of yellow and orange the store has adopted as its own as it re-invents itself for the twenty-first century. The exuberant new Lord and Taylor Rose is showcased on shopping bags, boxes, gift cards and in-store visuals in all 47 Lord and Taylor stores in the Northeast, through Memorial Day. In Manhattan, stunning collages of the Rose are displayed in awnings and windows across the Fifth Avenue facade of the landmarked flagship store and wrap buses that carry New Yorkers and visitors to and from metro area locations.

And, in keeping with Lord and Taylor's tradition of supporting emerging talent, the store is conducting the first annual contest to re-create the Lord and Taylor Rose from submissions of original art work by artists from around the world. "We are planning to bring back the Lord and Taylor Rose each Spring, each time a different version created by a different artist," says Jane Elfers, President and Chief Executive Officer. Artists, graphic designers and photographers can get details and contest rules by visiting www.lordandtaylor.com/rosecontest. Registration and submissions will take place online through May 26. Industry experts will select 60 entries and their images posted on the website on June 9. The public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorites, one vote per e-mail. The first round of the vote will close at midnight, June 22. Thirty top entries will be posted on the website, June 25, and the second round of voting will begin, ending at midnight, June 30. The winner will be announced on July 2. Besides having his or her Lord and Taylor Rose showcased in the store flagship's Fifth Avenue awnings and windows as well as in shopping bags, boxes, gift cards and in-store visuals in all Lord and Taylor stores next Spring, the winner will receive a $10,000 cash award and multiple mentions in national and international press.

The re-launch of the Rose is part of the Lord and Taylor rebranding campaign that has created an exciting buzz in the fashion industry since last Fall. The campaign, created by David Lipman, Chairman of LIPMAN, the leading branding and integrated advertising agency, aims to modernize the store's image, showcasing the results of Elfers' much talked about commitment to upgrading merchandise assortments, in-store services and amenities and brand packaging while upholding Lord and Taylor's 182 year history.

Lord & Taylor Spring Ad Campaign

2008-04-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

CLICK TO WATCH VIDEO

Intermix Event

2008-04-08T05:56:00.000-07:00

Plateau Magazine presents "Intermix": an event by the industry for the industry

WHERE: The Delancey-168 Delancey (btwn Clinton & Attorney)

WHEN: Wednesday, April 30, 2008 // 8:00 pm

Join Plateau for a night to mingle with various industries' finest. Come meet and greet: up and coming artists, dj's, producers, record label executives, clothing designers, stylists, models, photographers, choreographers, socialites, marketers, dancers, make-up artists and more. Expand your network with a night of fun.

OPEN BAR FROM 8 - 9 pm // Drink Specials After 9 // Buffet // Gift Bags //

Special Performances by: MARC VILLA & G.i.C & FUNK FACE

DJ SETS BY: DJ EMAGINE (DJEMAGINE.COM), THE DJ KL (DIGIWAXX), REV MCFLY (NINJASONIK), SELECTOR SCIENCE (SAN FRANCISCO/EAST COAST UNDERGROUND)

Benetton & Youssou N'Dour Team Up

2008-03-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

Youssou N'Dour is to the Senegalese music fan what Miley Cirus is to the the American teen music fan. A larger than life music figure who draws huge crowds wherever he goes. It's no surprise that Benetton is teaming up with Youssou for an upcoming ad campaign.

BESIDES PRODUCT FOCUSED ADS, BENETTON Group runs yearly global ad campaigns that blend branding, photojournalism, and social activism. They--as much as the clothes--have made the company famous, if controversial, in the clothing business.

Efforts like 1993's AIDS and Safe Sex campaign, and 2000's We on Death Row weren't Benetton's first such efforts, but they set the tone for the company's efforts to spotlight inequity, poverty, global health and its own efforts to improve things.

The Treviso, Italy-based company's work continues with this year's campaign to promote the Birima micro-credit program in Senegal, a co-operative credit society founded by Senegalese singer Youssou N'Dour. Birima, N'Dour's co-operative credit society, offers financial services for craftspeople, professionals and artists to help them start and independently develop their business.

Click Here To Read More

Saks' "Buys" a Double-Decker Bus

2008-02-22T11:37:00.000-08:00

Saks Fifth Avenue's latest "Want It!" advertising campaign has presented it with an interesting opportunity.

The Saks' 'Want It!' ads were created by Dutch graphic artist Piet Paris.The ads, created by Dutch graphic artist Piet Paris, are practically a billboard for New York City. And given the recent influx of Europeans looking to take advantage of the tanking value of the U.S. dollar, Saks has decided to embark on several tourist-centric initiatives around the launch of the campaign next month.

'Want It!' imagery From March 13-15, a double-decker bus wrapped with "Want It!" images will ferry customers from Saks Fifth Avenue's flagship to the Upper East Side, where they will receive free admission to several of the museums featured in the ads. Saks' fashion director, possibly Mr. Paris and other personalities will also likely make appearances on the bus, said Kimberly Grabel, senior VP-marketing at the retailer. "[Tourists were] really the trigger to think about the bus concept, because they are the first to hop on the bus and do the tour of New York. So we expect a lot of tourists on the bus," Ms. Grabel said. The retailer will also take the opportunity to plug plenty of its high-end fashions. "Our guide will not only be dressed in 'Want It!' fashion, but they'll have a script that includes both the trends of the season as well as a little history of Saks Fifth Avenue," Ms. Grabel added.

Several of the landmarks featured in the ads are also offering up unique experiences to Saks customers. Nine or 10 customers will accompany Saks' chairman-CEO, Steve Sadove, to the New York Stock Exchange for the ringing of the closing bell on April 10. And 25 customers will have the chance to take a private tour of the Whitney Museum of American Art. $2,000 handbags, $3,000 gowns While a double-decker bus might not seem a logical marketing vehicle for a retailer that touts $2,000 Prada handbags and $3,000 Versace gowns, Ms. Grabel said the retailer has seen a marked increase in the number of tourists shopping its stores, especially in New York and other gateway cities. "Our total company comp-store sales in 2007 were quite strong, up 11.7%," Ms. Grabel said. "The New York City flagship, which makes up about 20% of total company sales, outperformed even this company average, and the strong performance was positively impacted by both foreign and domestic tourism, although it's difficult to quantify to what degree."

The new campaign, handled in-house, is the fourth in the "Want It!" series, which has also featured the artists Michael Roberts, Marian Bantjes and Mats Gustafson. Mr. Paris used spray paint, collage and water colors to create illustrations that seamlessly integrate trends such as tunics and shoulder bags with the New York City skyline for the spring '08 season.

Read Full Story Here

BREAKING NEWS...MACYS TO CONSOLIDATE

2008-02-06T10:51:00.000-08:00

BREAKING NEWS

There has been speculation for a while but here is the latest. Sources tell us that

Macy's Midwest will fold into Macy's South, Macy's Northwest will fold into West and Macy's North will fold into Macy's East.

Lord & Taylor to Buy Fortunoff

2008-01-31T08:07:00.000-08:00

BREAKING NEWS
The owner of the 182-year-old Lord & Taylor department store chain is close to buying Fortunoff, the jewelry and housewares retailer that is struggling with slumping sales and heavy debt, according to people briefed on the matter.
The $100 million deal would marry two of New York’s prominent retailers in what amounts to a rescue operation. Lord & Taylor wants to put Fortunoff merchandise in all 47 of its stores — and even open a large Fortunoff boutique within Lord & Taylor’s flagship Fifth Avenue location, the people said.
The proposed acquisition of Fortunoff, by the private equity firm NRDC Equity Partners, Lord & Taylor’s parent, is not yet final. The negotiations could still unravel, the people cautioned, and Fortunoff has drawn interest from several bidders who could outmaneuver NRDC.
A deal could not come fast enough for Fortunoff. The 86-year-old chain is teetering on the edge of bankruptcy — and NRDC may buy it either before it files for bankruptcy or as part of a bankruptcy proceeding, said executives involved in the talks, who asked not to be identified because they were not authorized to speak publicly.
The deal highlights the unexpected revival of Lord & Taylor, which started in Manhattan in 1826. Two years ago, it appeared to need a rescue of its own as it spiraled into financial trouble and irrelevance.
But Lord & Taylor has staged a striking comeback, persuading more than 100 upscale brands, including Diesel, Tracy Reese and Ted Baker, to sell their wares at the chain.
Richard A. Baker, the chief executive of NRDC Equity Partners and the architect of the Lord & Taylor revival, is hoping to do the same for the flagging Fortunoff. Founded in 1922 by Max and Clara Fortunoff, who set up a row of eight small stores in Brooklyn that sold everything from kitchen utensils to diamond rings, Fortunoff became a retailing empire in the New York City area.

READ MORE

Lord & Taylor's Next Top Model Search

2008-01-30T05:54:00.000-08:00

Lord & Taylor will be running a model search in February. Although Lord & Taylor did a great job with their new branding initiatives, the fall ad campaign did not get stellar marks for diversity. I think this new model search will pay off if some diverse models can be picked to represent them in Spring '09. If you have what it takes SIGN UP!

MODEL SEARCH DETAILS:

Two lucky contestants will win the Grand Prize, joining top professional models as a part of the Spring ’09 advertising campaign, as well as a $1000 Lord & Taylor shopping spree!
Registration for Next Year’s Model will take place at each of the Lord & Taylor store locations listed below on the date of the casting call only. Twenty contestants, 18 and older, will be selected per store and their images posted online within 24-48 hours. Then the public will view the contestants and vote for their favorites.
The top ten contestants per store will advance to a second round of voting which will narrow the field to 12 finalists, two per store. These finalists will each be awarded a First Prize of a $500 Lord & Taylor shopping spree and a trip to New York City, all expenses paid, where they will participate in a fashion show at Lord & Taylor’s Fifth Avenue store, where industry experts will select the two Grand Prize winners.

Casting Call Calendar
Fifth Avenue - Monday, Feb. 11th, 10AM - 2PM
Garden State Plaza - Tuesday, Feb. 12th, 10AM - 2PM
Prudential Center - Wednesday, Feb. 13th, 10AM - 2PM
Washington- Thursday, Feb. 14th, 10AM - 2PM
Eastchester - Friday, Feb. 15th, 10AM - 2PM
Garden City- Saturday, Feb. 16th, 10AM - 2PM

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New Play Getting Buzz on Broadway

2008-01-26T10:26:00.000-08:00

The new play "Passing Strange" has been getting its fill of buzz.
A portrait of the artist as a confused young black man emerges in vivid colors in the fresh, exuberant and bitingly funny new musical “Passing Strange,” which opened last night at the Public Theater. The biography of a songwriter on a wayward journey of self-discovery, this bracingly inventive show introduces an exciting new voice to contemporary musical theater, a witty wordsmith, composer and performer who goes by the single name Stew.

SEE New York Times REVIEW

Two Harlem Record Stores to Close

2008-01-21T09:42:00.000-08:00

Two Harlem, N.Y., record stores, friendly competitors steeped in neighborhood and music history, could be forced out of business within weeks of each other. Bobby Robinson, 91, will shutter Bobby's Happy House today, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Sikhulu Shange, owner of Harlem Record Shack, is under court order to leave after 36 years in business.

Is this a sign of things to come in Harlem or is is a sign of things to come in the retail industry. There are many signs that point to that dreaded "R" word, recession. For the first time in a long while even luxury retailers are feeling the pinch. Analyst predict that there may be some pull-back in consumer spending and it will be felt in growth strategies at retailers.

Tell us what you think

The "I Have a Dream Speech"

2008-01-21T06:59:00.000-08:00

Join BRAG in celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King and his many accomplishments

Celebrate The Dream

2008-01-21T06:56:00.001-08:00

The Churn

2008-01-20T08:36:00.000-08:00

Susan Akkad has been named senior vice president of corporate marketing, diversity, a newly created position, at Estée Lauder. She was previously senior vice president of global communications and artist relations at M.A.C Cosmetics.

Lisa Lupinski, formerly director of global communications at Estée Lauder Companies Inc., has joined Karla Otto Inc.

Manuel Puig has been named president of Nina Ricci and will launch the brand's accessories division. He will remain vice president of Puig.

George Sharp has been named executive vice president of design at St. John, a newly created position. He was previously vice president of design at Ellen Tracy.

Margareta van den Bosch has stepped down as head of design at H&M. She will continue at the company as a creative adviser. Her replacement is Ann-Sofie Johansson.

Isaac Mizrahi has been named creative director of Liz Claiborne. He will no longer be designing his collection for mass retailer Target.

The Churn

2008-01-12T06:41:00.000-08:00

Robert Vignola, formerly president and chief executive officer of Judith Leiber LLC, has been named president of Calvin Klein Collection, a newly-created position.

Mitchell Fox, group president and publishing director of Condé Nast, is leaving the company. David Carey, group president and publishing director at Condé Nast, will now oversee Wired Media and the Golf Digest Group in addition to the Business Media Group, which includes Condé Nast Portfolio and portfolio.com.

Thomas A. Florio, currently vice president and publishing director of Vogue, Men's Vogue, and Vogue Living, has been named senior vice president and publishing director and will now oversee the Teen Vogue publishing business as well.

William Wackermann, currently vice president and publisher of Glamour, will now add oversight of the Condé Nast Bridal Media Group to his responsibilities. He has been promoted to senior vice president and publishing director.

Sandy Golinkin, vice president and publisher of Lucky, is leaving the magazine.

Gina Sanders, formerly VP and publisher of Teen Vogue, has been named vice president and publisher of Lucky.

Bonnie Morrison, publicity director at KCD, has been named special projects editor, including editorial events, at Men's Vogue.

Simona Zerchi has been named U.S. president of Celine. She was previously vice president of Miu Miu footwear, handbags, and accessories at Prada USA Corp. Lorenza Cavalli, formerly retail director at Trussardi, has been named worldwide retail director at Jil Sander.

Paula Bennett has been named president of the J. Jill brand. She was previously with Orchard Brands as president and CEO of Appleseed's, Tog Shop, and the WinterSilks brands.

BLOOMINGDALE’S BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY ALERT

2008-01-08T09:12:00.000-08:00

BLOOMINGDALE’S BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY ALERT

BLOOMINGDALE’S WILL HOST MINORITY-OWNED AND WOMEN-OWNED SUPPLIER DIVERSITY VENDOR FAIRS ON THE FOLLOWING DATES:

THE FAIR FOR RETAIL PRODUCTS WILL TAKE PLACE ON:
FEBRUARY 27 & 28, 2008
WHERE - 919 THIRD AVENUE, 5th FLOOR CONFERENCES ROOMS
TIME - 10:00 A. M.----4:00 P.M.

THE FAIR FOR NON-RETAIL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES WILL TAKE PLACE ON:
MARCH 13, 2008
WHERE - 919 THIRD AVENUE, 5th FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOMS
TIME: 9:00 A. M.-----2:00 P. M.

Bloomingdales is seeking minority-owned and women-owned vendors to consider for exhibiting at their Supplier Diversity Vendor Fairs.
Retail products can be ready-to-wear, men’s, children, accessories, and home.

Non-retail categories can include construction, store design, visual display props, packaging, janitorial, etc.

Products must meet manufacturing, safety, and quality control standards to be considered.

All vendors must have manufacturing/supply capability to meet department store needs.

Vendors must be certified by one of the following certifying agencies:

National Minority Supplier Development Council ( NMSDC ): http://www.nmsdc.org/

Women’s Business Enterprise National Council ( WBENC ): http://www.wbenc.org/

Both organizations require the vendor to be 51% or more owned by a minority or women.

Both organizations request financial disclosures on the company as well as personal information from the owners.

If you have retail products, and you are interested in being an exhibitor, please contact the following people:
Donna.Wolff@bloomingdales.com
Bari.Goldstein@bloomingdales.com

If you have non-retail produces and/or services, and you are interested in being an exhibitor; please contact the following people:
Tina.Motley@bloomingdales.com
Susan.Karp@bloomingdales.com

Bloomingdales will need wholesale price lists, spec sheets and/or catalogs of your products/services to help us determine if your product or service is a possible fit for our fair.

For the retail products the Fashion Coordinators, Fashion Stylist, and Merchant Teams will make the determination if your product meets the standards for exhibiting at the fair.

For the non-retail products, the purchasing agents will determine if your product/service meet the standards for our fair..