Sheffield Hallam University honours Burberry designer

Christopher Bailey, chief creative officer of British luxury brand Burberry, has received an honorary doctorate from Sheffield Hallam University, which he describes as "an incredible place, with inspiring students and a diverse and individual style".

Christopher received his honorary doctorate in front of an invited audience of Sheffield Hallam fashion students and academics, along with representatives from the city's fashion industry.

The award was given in recognition of his services to the fashion industry and his charitable work in the UK.

Christopher enjoyed the opportunity to tour the University's facilities and meet some of the students before the ceremony. He also conducted a 20 minute question and answer session with the students, during which he gave them advice on staying focused on what they want to achieve. He said: "The great thing about this university is its diversity. There are people making things from steel, from wood, from stone, from cloth - all in the same place. That is really inspirational."

In his role as chief creative officer, Christopher is responsible for the design of all Burberry collections and products, as well as advertising, corporate art direction, architectural design, multi-media content and overall brand image.

Accepting his award, Christopher said: "It is a privilege and an honour to become a part of Sheffield Hallam University. I have been to a lot of Universities and what I have seen today is up there with the best in the UK.

"Today has been really inspiring and although the fashion course is relatively new, it already feels very established and has a clear point of view. It is a very diverse place and everyone here is displaying their own individuality. Be inspired by the passionate leaders you have here and by the different approaches and techniques that you will experience.

"I'm from Yorkshire and home means an awful lot to me. It is wonderful to have such an incredible and inspiring learning place at the heart of the region. Thank you for having me as part of your gang."

Professor Philip Jones, Vice Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University said: "We were delighted to welcome Christopher to the University. He has inspired our students and given them some invaluable advice and feedback that will shape their futures.

"We were particularly pleased to show Christopher the breadth of creative courses that we delivered here at Hallam and to show how our students use our state of the art facilities to turn their creative ideas into reality."

Sheffield Hallam University - Fibre2fashion.com

Dasha Gauser to present F/W collection at MBFW Russia

By the way, on April 5, Dasha Gauser will present her new Fall-Winter collection on one of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia catwalks, which is to be held from March 31 ‘till April 5 in the Congress-Hall of World Trade Center.

The most active buyers, the best of the best, chosen in each store of the chain, will receive a unique clutch made by the Russian designer Dasha Gauser especially for Maybelline.

«Certainly, I am very pleased that such a strong company like Maybelline trusts me with the development of their exclusive gift. It was exciting to work on the given theme — the inspiration for the creation of this accessory was a unique product of the brand — the new super-black mascara — The Falsies Volum’Express», — confesses Dasha Gauser.

This is not the first time Dasha Gauser collaborates with Maybelline. The company supports Russian designers within the bounds of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia and does not stop at what has been accomplished, always coming up with some interesting projects that not only allow to attract the attention to their products, but also promote the designer», — says the designer.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia - Fibre2fashion.com

136 Companies exhibiting for the first time at Fashion Access

The global fashion market is constantly evolving. New companies promote and progress developing trends. New exhibitors provide the window through which these movements can be viewed. At Fashion Access (FA) there are 136 companies exhibiting for the first time. That's an extraordinarily large number for one exhibition. What do they offer? What trends do they foretell? Visitors to the exhibition will know. The demand for higher-end and luxury fashion and lifestyle products has remained remarkably strong. Although demand in some countries is down, due largely to national economic conditions, in others it is buoyant and continues to grow. That growth is best shown in several so-called ‘emerging’ economies: for example India, Brazil, Russia and, of course, China. This sector-wide confidence is demonstrated at Fashion Access by the 640 plus exhibitors present. They come from 30 countries and regions with some 15 group pavilions. Fashion Access is held twice a year. This event focuses upon fashion trend forecasts for Autumn-Winter 2011/12. The range of lifestyle products on display – providing ‘Fashion from head to toe’ – is comprehensive, including bags, footwear, branded fashion collections, leather garments, leathergoods and travelware. Seminars (two notably by PeclersParis and Stylesight) and fashion presentations (Dress Up!) also take place throughout the fair. Seminars deliberately crossover into APLF - Materials, Manufacturing & Technology (APLF - MM&T) areas to appeal to both FA and APLF - MM&T participants, thus further reinforcing the synergy between both fairs. Date: March 30 to April 1, 2011 Venue: Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wanchai, Hong Kong FASHION ACCESS is the twice-a-year, must-attend international fashion fair in Hong Kong for bags, footwear, leather goods, garments and a full range of lifestyle accessories.

Fashion Access (FA) - Fibre2fashion.com

H.H Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif opens the Bride Show Dubai

The Bride Show Dubai was officially opened on Wednesday 30 March by patron Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif, Chairwoman of the Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE and wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President of the UAE.

Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif cut the ribbon in a private ladies only ceremony to launch the four-day long fashion, beauty and shopping extravaganza which brings together the crème de la crème of the regional wedding industry, international retailers, brides-to-be and thousands of the UAE’s fashion lovers.

After touring the Sheikh Saeed exhibition halls, Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha was treated to a private fashion show from exclusive Bangkok-based bridal boutique After You Say Yes – SIMA. Owned by Khunying Sasima Srivikorn, whose family owns the InterContinental Hotel in the Thai capital, the wedding boutique is taking part in The Bride Show Dubai for the first time.

Following the official launch, The Bride Show Dubai opened its doors to the general public and is now underway at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre until Saturday 2 April.More than 300 local and international exhibitors are taking part to provide a one-stop-shop for brides planning their wedding and women who love fashion, beauty and jewellery.

Eighteen fashion shows will take place over the four day event, the largest event of its kind open to the general public offering access to the front row. Visitors on the opening day saw bridal designs and haute couture evening wear from After You Say Yes – SIMA, Dabya Haute Couture, Beautiful People – Sakina Mohsin, Meena Rose Haute Couture and Demetrios.

Now in its 14th year, The Bride Show Dubai has a fresh feel for 2011. A new VIP entrance fee of AED50 will give shoppers access to the VIP Lounge where they can take advantage of complimentary treatments from Tips and Toes, the largest chain of nail salons in the Middle East. Trained beauty technicians will offer rejuvenation in the form of head, neck and shoulder massages, nail colour changes and nail art.

Those who choose to pay the VIP entrance may also enjoy goodie bags filled with exhibitor products, light refreshments as well as reserved front row seating for all the fashion shows.

Adding an international flair, Fashion Avenue features wedding retailers from Italy, France, Morocco, Romania, India, Thailand, the UK and USA, all of which have flown into Dubai to meet brides to be and their families and showcase their finest bridal gowns and accessories. Visitors have an exclusive opportunity to browse designs from The Italian Wedding, Julien Mattion and Curti, all from Italy, as well as French brands Farage, Promincor and La Maison Saouli.

The Bride Show Dubai is open from 2:30pm to 10:30pm, Wednesday 30 March to Saturday 2nd April 2011 in Sheikh Saeed Halls 1, 2 and 3, Dubai International Exhibition Centre.

The show is supported by gold sponsor Mohammed Hilal Group and silver sponsors After You Say Yes – SIMA, Khamsa Couture and Zadina. Fashion Show Schedule: Thursday 31 March 6:00pm Dan Couture 7:00pm Liberty of London for Lace Art 8:00pm RD&C – Romanian Designers & Co. 9:00pm Farage (France) Friday 1 April 5:00pm Zahia 6:00pm Louzan 7:00pm Tijan Trading 8:00pm Mauzan 9:00pm M&A Abaya Art Saturday 2 April 6:00pm Oriental Red Carpet Competition by Dubai Ladies Club 7:00pm La Maison Saouli 8:00pm Dantella Designs 9:00pm Satya Paul

The Bride Show Dubai - Fibre2fashion.com

FDCC supports leading runway season - Fashion News Canada

The Fashion Design Council of Canada (FDCC) is grateful for the support of all its sponsors without whom LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris would not be possible! Their encouragement allows the FDCC to WORK IT on the runway each season, and their support enables them to continue to build the second largest fashion event in North America. These exclusive sponsors epitomize the season’s theme, The Business of Fashion, and the FDCC is delighted to be able to work with such wonderful business role models.

LG Electronics Canada is thrilled to enter its fifth season as title sponsor of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris,” said Frank Lee, Sr. Manager, Corporate Marketing LG Electronics Canada Inc. “The LG brand represents stylish design, cutting-edge innovation and uncompromising quality. These three pillars resonate at LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris. We look forward to another memorable season marveling at the catwalk!”

Presenting sponsor L’Oréal Paris will continue infusing its unique style of beauty at LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris. Backstage, the 40+ member L’Oréal Paris Beauty Team will passionately create all of the runway makeup and hair looks in collaboration with participating designers and apply these looks on more than 500 models throughout the week. Showcasing how to translate runway beauty for real-life, L’Oréal Paris will offer glamorous makeup and hair touch-ups to attendees in their Beauty Lounge in the Fashion Environment where they will be among the first in Canada to try one of the brand’s most exciting new cosmetics products scheduled for public launch in June 2011.

KORHANI home has signed a multi year deal as a founding sponsor of the LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris. Korhani home is the largest Canadian rug manufacturer and will be premiering the latest home trends for Fall 2011 on the main runway. Moji and Kirsten Korhani, Owner and Creative Director, are thrilled about this partnership. This conceptual presentation is a must see event. "This is a great opportunity to show the collaboration between how we style ourselves, and how we style our living spaces" said Kirsten Korhani. Korhani home is also proud to provide the red carpet for the event.

Canadian women choose World MasterCard to enjoy the world of fashion, culture, adventure and discovery. World MasterCard is proud to be a first-time sponsor of the LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris and to present the latest Pink Tartan collection on the main runway. Through extensive research and reports like the MasterIndex™ of Canadian Women Consumers, MasterCard provides unique insight into the female consumer, her purchasing decisions and her growing purchasing power.

Joe Fresh is proud to be a sponsor of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris for the 5th year! The Joe Fresh brand is Loblaw Companies Limited’s answer to Canadian consumers' desire for accessible, of-the-moment style. Creative Director, Joseph Mimran, oversees a collection that features more than 400 items, from the latest in chic fashions to on-trend accessories and must-have beauty products conveniently available at more than 300 stores across Canada.

Sears returns as a Primary sponsor of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris. Jay Manuel comes on board with his creative vision and takes the helm as Creative Director of ATTITUDE Jay Manuel. Designed for the stylish woman on the go, the Fall/Winter Collection brings together modern interpretations of the sophisticated silhouette from the early 60s with the luxury and textures of the 70s.

It’s official! Barbie and Ken are together again! At LG Fashion Week, we celebrate one of the most iconic and beloved couples of all time. Through it all, Barbie and Ken have reflected the best of pop culture – sporting the trendiest fashions and launching careers that inspired generations of fans.

DHL’s global expertise, service excellence and international focus, which spans more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, helps customers in the fashion and apparel industry operate more efficiently and effectively.

Rowenta is proud to be an official supplier of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris. From backstage to the runway – its garment and hair care tools are the top choice among Canada’s leading designers and stylists.

As a proud sponsor of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris, Schick Quattro for Women knows that style begins before you get dressed with sexy, smooth skin. Its four ultra-thin blades give women long lasting smoothness so they are ready to wear the season’s most fabulous fashions.

Kellogg's Special K wants to celebrate the confidence that comes from looking and feeling good about your shape. Tell us about a time when you felt fabulous and you could be 1 of 3 lucky grand prize winners.

Italy’s most fashionable export, Peroni Nastro Azzurro, will once again delight the palates of Toronto’s style set as the official beer sponsor of LG Fashion Week, Beauty by L’Oréal Paris. The longstanding sponsorship reinforces the refreshingly crisp lager’s commitment to supporting both established and emerging Canadian fashion and design talent.

Holt Renfrew can’t live without Canadian fashion! Celebrating a proud 174-year heritage, Holt Renfrew is recognized worldwide for its extraordinary shopping experience. Holt Renfrew locations across the country include: Toronto (three), Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton.

The style of power starts with stylish heels. Town Shoes has been strutting stilettos down the runway and has been a proud Official supplier of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris for the past 23 seasons. Town Shoes- For the Love of Shoes.

Woolite is proud to be the official supplier of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris. The Canadian Fashion Industry trusts Woolite to keep the newest fashions looking like new.

From the rigor of the runway to the luxury of home, Kentwood floors work everywhere – beautifully, elegantly, effortlessly.

LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris will host the Fall 2011 Collections from Monday, March 28 to Saturday, April 2, returning to Heritage Court in Exhibition Place.

LG Fashion Week - Fibre2fashion.com

Wall London set ethical standard for British fashion industry - Fashion News UK

The House of Lords have named Wall London as thought leaders in ethical fashion, setting a clear standard to the British fashion industry as a whole.

Baroness Young of Hornsey raised the debate on the Government's plans to support and promote the ethical and sustainable fashion and clothing industry on 3rd March, sparking a wide-ranging discussion. Wall have built a strong reputation as an ethical business during their fourteen year history. This was recognised by Baroness Rendell of Babergh, who discussed Wall's ethical heritage alongside that of Stella McCartney, saying Wall "set an example that could be a standard for [fashion] companies".

Lord Sugar spoke of training young people in the UK to produce high quality, fashionable clothes on a local scale. This echoes Wall's internship program, in which disadvantaged young people in Peru are paid a salary while training to use knitting machines. Upon completion of their training interns are presented with a knitting machine, enabling them to earn a living and support their families for many years to come.

Wall invest a great deal of time ensuring all suppliers adhere to their strict code of conduct. As CEO Hernán Balcázar said: "Wall work hard to maintain very close relationships with all our suppliers and regularly audit factories to ensure our ethical standards are being met." The company's trusted suppliers buy alpaca wool from Peruvian farmers in order to make their beautiful winter knitwear, and have an agreement to buy the hide of any alpaca that dies of natural causes. This means that the farmer does not lose valuable income which may be the difference between his children eating and going hungry.

Fashion and clothing have been an important part of the British economy for many years, with the British fashion industry currently contributing GBP21 billion to the country's economy every year, making it the UK's 15th largest sector. As Lord Sheikh said during the debate: "With our prestige in this industry comes social responsibility. Ethical fashion practices will broaden opportunities and improve the standard of living for millions of citizens in the developing world." Wall are honoured to be considered leaders in ethical practice in the fashion industry, and continue to be fully committed to socially responsible trading.

Wall London was established in 1997 when their boutique was opened by Hernán and Judith Balcázar in London's vibrant Notting Hill. Since then the timeless elegance and luxurious quality of Wall clothing has earned the company a loyal and wide-ranging client base. All Wall clothes are produced in sizes XS-XL to allow a wide variety of women to enjoy their classic styles.

Wall London - Fibre2fashion.com

40 designers to create own vision on LGFW Runway - Fashion News Canada

This season, LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris means business. With shows starting earlier in the day than ever, and more time between presentations to ensure designers can create their own vision on the runway, getting down to business has never been easier. Veteran designers Denis Gagnon, Bustle, Comrags, Pink Tartan and Joe Fresh Style provide a solid foundation for the calendar and lead the way for fresh talents VAWK, Duy, Amanda Lew Kee and Chloe comme Parris, alongside creative brands such as Sears and Korhani.

The Business of Fashion will come to life with more than 40 designers strutting it in the Runway Room and working it in the Studio. LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris is delighted to welcome: Holt Renfrew Presents “Can’t Live Without Canadian Fashion”, IZMA, Denis Gagnon, LABEL, Shan, Chloe comme Parris, Korhani, Pink Tartan, Bustle, Joe Fresh Style, Krane Design, LOVAS, Comrags, Attitude Jay Manuel, David Dixon, Sid Neigum, Basch by Brandon, Heather Lawton, Rudsak, Cydelic by Chor-Yin, Lundström Collection, VAWK, Angela Chen, Sarah Stevenson, diepo, Klaxon Howl, Duy, Amanda Lew Kee and Line Knitwear to the calendar. LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris runs Monday, March 28 through Friday, April 1. Please find a detailed calendar attached.

Sears Canada has announced “Top Model" personality Jay Manuel as the creative director for the private label collection ATTITUDE Jay Manuel. "I'm thrilled to be working with Sears Canada to make fashion accessible for women who love to be beautiful," said Manuel, Creative Director, ATTITUDE Jay Manuel. The inaugural collection will be unveiled at LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris on Wednesday, March 30 at 8:30 p.m.

In the spirit of this season’s message, The Business of Fashion, the FDCC is launching the work week on Tuesday, March 29 at 1 p.m. with celebrated designer Denis Gagnon. “I am looking forward to an afternoon audience of old friends and new faces,” proudly says Denis Gagnon.

Runway shows and presentations will take place on site in the grand Runway Room and in the new and intimate Studio space. While the Runway Room’s 110-foot runway with seating for1,000 yields a traditional catwalk, the smaller Studio, with a maximum seating of 350, allows designers a more intimate space. The entirely black studio environment will enable designers completely transform the space to complement their collections.

Title sponsor LG is joined by presenting sponsor L’Oréal Paris, founding sponsors MasterCard and Korhani, and official sponsors Joe Fresh Style, Sears, Barbie, DHL, Rowenta, Schick, Special K, Peroni, Holt Renfrew, Woolite and Town Shoes.

Over five days, LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris will host more than 30,000 guests. With the help of these sponsors providing hospitality, services and amenities, the FDCC works to make each show effortless and exciting for all attendees. The FDCC highly values the foresight and marketing vision brought forth by these corporate entities, who share a common goal with Robin Kay and the FDCC: BUILD THE WEEK.

LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris will host the Fall 2011 Collections from Monday, March 28 to Saturday, April 2, returning to Heritage Court in Exhibition Place.

LG Fashion Week - Fibre2fashion.com

LGFW Beauty by L’Oréal Paris with ‘The Business of Fashion’ - Fashion News Canada

The Fashion Design Council of Canada (FDCC) announced that LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris will host the Fall 2011 Collections from Monday, March 28 to Saturday, April 2, returning to Heritage Court in Exhibition Place. This season’s calling card and theme “The Business of Fashion” complements the WORK IT tagline, as the FDCC aims to showcase designer talent and provide resources for them to “work it” and succeed beyond the runway.

“The Business of Fashion is the bottom line for every fashion week,” says FDCC president Robin Kay. “From inspiration to distribution, the essential elements of the world beyond the runway are what we must expose our designers to this season. While we will continue to celebrate the ingenuity and creativity of our designers, it is important to note that LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris serves not only to showcase designer collections, but to operate as a place of business where buying the brand is loud and clear.”

The Fall 2011 calendar is comprised of more than 40 shows filled with fresh faces and old friends. This season, Holt Renfrew presents “Can’t Live without Canadian Fashion”, which will open the week and once again bring a collection of top brands to the stage. Veteran labels Joe Fresh Style, Pink Tartan, Rudsak, Comrags and Lundström will WORK IT in the Runway Room, while emerging designers Duy and Sid Neigum will strut their stuff in a new studio space. The FDCC continues to embrace the efforts of The Fashion Collective, which brings up-and-coming designers such as Amanda Lew Kee, Thomas//, Diepo and Krane to the official schedule.

Title sponsor LG is joined by presenting sponsor L’Oréal Paris, founding sponsors MasterCard and Korhani, and official sponsors DHL, Holt Renfrew, Kellogg’s, Kentwood, Mattel, Peroni, Rowenta, Schick, Sears, Town Shoes and Woolite. Over five days, LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris will host more than 30,000 guests. With the help of these sponsors providing hospitality, services and amenities, the FDCC works to make each show effortless and exciting for all attendees.

“LG Electronics Canada is thrilled to enter its fifth season as title sponsor of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris,” says Frank Lee, Sr. Manager, Corporate Marketing LG Electronics Canada Inc. “The LG brand represents stylish design, cutting-edge innovation and uncompromising quality. These three pillars resonate at LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris. We look forward to another memorable season marvelling at the catwalk!”

The Fashion Design Council of Canada, owner and producer of LG Fashion Week Beauty by L’Oréal Paris, enthusiastically welcomes its new partnership with IMG World.

LG Fashion Week - Fibre2fashion.com

Meliciously Yours expands into the toddler market - Fashion News USA

Meliciously Yours, a unique clothing company with a line of designer tees that offer women and girls positive and empowering messages debuts its first toddler t-shirt option. The new toddler tee was inspired by its popular tween/teen/adult counterpart entitled “Beauty & Brains”, which implores women and girls of all ages to embrace their looks and their intelligence.

The tot shirt offers the same message as the adult version and will appeal to style-conscious parents seeking appropriate and expressive clothing for their little girls. The super soft designer tee is bright pink and uses a unique manufacturing process, called burnout, for a weathered, vintage look, is available in 2T, 3T and 4T, is made in the USA.

“Starting at an early age, a girls’ self-worth is often based on her outward beauty and not her intellectual abilities because of social conceptions and even the messages reflected on items like our children’s t-shirts,” stated Melissa Slaven-Warren, founder and creator of Meliciously Yours t-shirts.

“Our Beauty & Brains Toddler tee was designed to empower little girls with the message that they can be smart and pretty. But not just externally pretty…they can be pretty intelligent, pretty caring, and pretty funny. It’s all about branding yourself positive and girls are never too young to start thinking about their self-worth and what they have to offer.”

Meliciously Yours is a privately held company based in Wilmington, NC and launched in 2010. Its mission is to offer unique apparel designs influenced by the manners, opulence, timeless beauty, charm, and structured femininity synonymous with the Victorian era, but translate into modern meaningful and positive messages for women.

Meliciously Yours - Fibre2fashion.com

MoD staged fashion show at Oxford Fashion Week - Fashion News UK

‘Models of Diversity’ staged a fashion show at Oxford Town Hall, 19th March 2011 at 2pm as part of Style Day, Oxford Fashion Week, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Models of Diversity promote models of all natural shapes, sizes, races, ages and ability levels. The fashion show featured Australian model Katrina Lilwall who has modelled for top brands including Mercedes Benz, Shwarzkopf and L’Oreal. Male models were also represented on the catwalk, as the UK is a very diverse society with people of all shapes, sizes, ages, heights, colours and ability levels – MoD aims to represent that in the fashion industry.

MoD’s line at the Oxford Style Show, which ran as part of Oxford Fashion Week, in association with the MacMillan Clothes Extravaganza, featured 20 models from the campaign, including models with disabilities, mature models, models of colour, androgynous models and plus size models. The show brought the show down, and Models of Diversity have been asked back for Oxford Fashion Week 2012.

The show featured looks from high street stores Next, New Look, Debenhams, and Evans; the models also sported pieces from designers and smaller boutiques like Miko Spinelli, Samantha Agnew Jewellery, Ilda di Vico Couture Hat Designer, Aspire Style, Lilly Belle, Queen of the Wild, Aaron Ray Dowie, and Fabryan.

‘The British Fashion Council promotes diversity within the fashion industry and encourages organisations that promote a diverse image of beauty. We are delighted that Oxford Fashion Week is partnering with Models of Diversity for their Oxford Style Show & Macmillan Clothes Extravaganza on March 19th 2011’ said Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council.

Co-founder of Models of Diversity and a former model herself, Angel Sinclair (who also runs Sinclair Model Management) said ‘We are thrilled to be taking part in Oxford’s focus on fashion and to be raising funds for such an excellent cause. All profits will be donated to Macmillan Cancer Support.’

Models of Diversity - Fibre2fashion.com

Southeast Urban Fashion Honors hosted by Dennis L.A. White - Fashion News USA

As advertised on V-103 in Atlanta, Georgia, the Southeast Urban Honor Awards is an honor program that will help build a platform for urban industry experts in the southeast regions from the Carolina's to as far south as Florida.

Our goal is to assist designers, models, accessory designers, makeup artist, wardrobe stylists, and hair stylists with the opportunity to connect and expand their client base and market.

The Urban Fashion Week (UFW) is the major influence behind the honors event and has launched the first ever Southeast Urban Fashion Honors hosted by Dennis L.A. White from the Biggie movie “Notorious”.

The event will also honor Biggie, one of the great Architects of Urban Fashion Style by showcasing his legacy through his music videos. Jason McCall from the Obama camp for the Minority Development Agency Department - US Department of Commerce, is also confirmed to be a key note speaker during the Southeast Urban Honor Awards, and special guest, Erica Christina Little - Miss Black GA USA along with many more special invited guests!

When: Monday, March 28th

Where: Primal Night Club, 960 Spring Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

Urban Fashion Week (UFW) - Fibre2fashion.com

Bride Show Dubai adds international flair in revamped exhibition - Fashion News UAE

The Bride Show Dubai is days away from opening its doors to fiancés and fashionistas alike and this year the four day wedding extravaganza has been revamped and includes an exclusive Fashion Avenue of international brands.

Wedding retailers from Italy, France, Morocco, Romania, India, Thailand, the UK and USA will fly into Dubai to meet brides to be and their families and showcase their finest bridal gowns and accessories. Visitors will have an exclusive opportunity to browse designs from The Italian Wedding, Julien Mattion and Curti, all from Italy, as well as French brands Farage, Promincor and La Maison Saouli.

As the tastes and trends of Middle Eastern women continue to be influenced by Western style, this new platform of international design is sure to be one of the most popular features of The Bride Show Dubai this year, offering an exclusive opportunity to purchase bridal wear not readily available in the region.

The daily fashion shows – the only runway exhibitions open to members of the public – will see many international brands share the stage with emerging and established design talent from the Middle East including Dan Couture and Designers Empire.

The Bride Show Dubai is the region’s top event for fashion lovers, brides-to-be and anyone with an interest in style. More than 200 exhibitors from around the world take part to showcase wedding gowns, haute couture designs, jewellery, beauty solutions, fine chocolate and more.

The event will be officially inaugurated by patron Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif, Chairwoman of the Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE and wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President of the UAE on Wednesday 30th March. The show is open from 2:30pm to 10:30pm and runs until Saturday 2nd April 2011 in Sheikh Saeed Halls 1, 2 and 3, Dubai International Exhibition Centre.

Standard entry is AED10 and VIP tickets cost AED50. The show is supported by gold sponsor Mohammed Hilal Group and silver sponsors After You Say Yes – SIMA , Khamsa Couture and Zadina.

The Bride Show Dubai - Fibre2fashion.com

Stallone of Rocky fame to unveil lifestyle line

More popular for sweatsuits, T-shirts and camouflage outfits in his roles as Rocky Balboa and Rambo, Sylvester Stallone has developed a new business to launch 'Stallone', a lifestyle brand for men, which is scheduled for launch in 2012.

The company is now in search of wholesale licensing partners for launch of multiple categories under the Stallone label in 2012. Outwear, jeans, shirts, innerwear and watches are the categories which are intended to be launched first.

The same would be followed by launch of grooming products, activewear, eyewear, fragrance and athletic shoes.

Men in the age group of 25 to 40 would remain the main focus of the firm. While the collection would be designed, drawing inspiration from the superstar’s two most admired characters – Rocky and Rambo, and which would be used in the brand’s marketing.

It is expected that the line would be targeted to mid-tier departmental outlets like Macy’s. However the exact retail price range for the collection has yet not been decided.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India - Fibre2fashion.com

Lamya Abedin inspires from daughter Jana to create new dress line - Fashion News UAE

This year for Mother’s Day, Lamya Abedin, the Emirati founder and designer of Queen of Spades, extends her fashion abaya label with a line of dresses exclusively designed both for the mothers and the daughters.

Inspired by her own two-year-old daughter Jana, Abedin has created this special line – Mommy & Baby Spades – with 20 exclusive twin sets of ready-to-wear dresses for mothers and their daughters who are aged between 2 to 6 years.

Mother and daughter models displayed the new collection in a fairytale themed fashion show at Galeries Lafayette, Dubai Mall.

“This Mother’s Day I wanted to glorify the beautiful bond between mothers and daughters by creating something new. The first thought was to create something that both mothers and daughters would enjoy wearing. My own daughter became my muse for this collection. And with her birthday around the corner, I wanted to dedicate this new line for mothers and babies to my little daughter who I love dressing up. Jana’s love for colours, how she plays with my fabrics and reacts to the mannequins in my workshop, has all led to ideas I have used in creating this line of dresses – a first in my range of creations,” says Abedin.

The imaginary land of fairy tales became the theme and Abedin used a lot of tutus and ballerina styles, bright colors, mesh skirts, printed patches, fairy, dolls and butterfly prints to bring alive her new creations. In this collection too one will see Queen of Spades’ signature styles of patch works, layers, mixed use of fabrics and lots of accessories.

Having lived and travelled to various parts of the world this line of dresses also reflects Abedin’s passion to source unique materials. For the latest collection the designer has sourced fabrics from across the globe including France, United States, Germany and Japan. The choice of fabrics for this range was primarily cotton, linen, velvet, silk, crepes, laces and denims.

The collection presents casual, ready-to-wear outfits, along with some dressier options for occasions and festive wear. Apart for the colourful dresses, the collection will also showcase a twin set ensemble of loose denim pants and the quintessential black dress.

Eventra, an event and planning company in Dubai has joined hands with Abedin to create the fairy themed set up complete with make-up, nail and hair style stations, dancers, photo booths and drawing walls.

Since the launch of her label Queen of Spades at her brand boutique in Dubai’s popular fashion destination Galeries Lafayette in February 2010, Lamya Abedin has launched five new collections, each created and inspired by various themes from Vintage Hollywood to Hanami, the Japanese spring festival, from Ottoman Dynasty to Valentine’s Day. Abedin also showcased at the Dubai Fashion Show 2010 and recently associated with French perfumers Honeres de Paris for the Middle Eastern launch of the “Vamp a NY” collection.

The latest distribution spot in Harvey Nichols Riyadh is the third retail point for Queen of Spades abayas, following the Galeries Lafayette in Dubai Mall and Ush boutique in Jumeirah, Dubai.

Lamya Abedin, Managing Director & Founder, Queen of Spades An Emarati woman with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration, life was more colourful than to pursue a 9 to 5 job. So Lamya Abedin’s ardent love for fashion, styling, makeup and interior decorating got the better of her. Having lived most of her life out of the UAE in various countries in the Gulf, Middle East, Europe and North Africa, Lamya decided to take a lesson in the diversity of cultures and create something unique and novel in the fashion industry. So Abedin blended the cultures she experienced into her designs, to give her national dress a whole new fashion statement. Her designs have seen reflections of unique forms of traditional wear like kimonos, saris, even pantaloons. While searching for a special abaya for herself in Dubai, she wasn’t able to find that "One-of-a-Kind" piece and that led her to create her own line of abayas – all individual pieces of creativity and exclusivity. When many started to admire her unique ensembles she was encouraged to let her creativity take another step and build her brand – Queen of Spades.

Queen of Spades - Fibre2fashion.com

Swarovski Catwalk Show at Scottish Fashion Awards - Fashion News Scotland

The Scottish Fashion Awards organizers have announced an impressive and stellar line up of judges that will join Scotland’s internationally recognized celebration of fashion on Wednesday 15th June in Glasgow, at the futuristic Glasgow Science Centre.

Judges include Brian Duffy, (President of Ralph Lauren Europe), Dolly Jones (Editor of Vogue.com), Caroline Rush (CEO British Fashion Council), Natalie Colin (Creative Director Swarovski), Sarah Mower (European Editor US Vogue & Ambassador for Emerging Talent BFC), Sarah Bailey (Deputy Editor of Harpers Bazaar), Paula Reed (Style Director Grazia), Professor Wendy Dagworthy (Head of Fashion & Textiles at RCA, London), and Hilary Alexander (Fashion Director Daily Telegraph), Richard Walker (Sunday Herald & Weekend Editor), chaired by event founder & producer Tessa Hartmann.

Dolly Jones, Editor of Vogue.com said: “I’m very happy that we are once again working with the Scottish Fashion Awards. Tessa and her team have developed these awards into an unmissable annual event that gets better every year - it gives Scottish fashion talent a deserved place in the limelight and allows us to celebrate the designers whose careers we have been watching since the beginning as they take their place on the international stage."

Judge Sarah Mower added: “All eyes are on Scotland now, not just because of the huge influx of Scottish fashion designers, who are making a mark on the international scene, but because the world has become obsessed with all things crafted traditionally in Scotland. The winter shows have been all about tartan, Scottish cashmere, Harris Tweed,
Argyles, hand knitting, kilts, so 2011 is really Scotland’s fashion year.”

The panel will join a selection of impressive global brands and partners for this 6th annual event, which is now a firm fixture in the global fashion calendar. Irish beauty and MTV Europe presenter, Laura Whitmore will host the glittering awards ceremony held in the impressive building on the city’s Clydeside. The event will take over the entire titanium complex which is a feat of modern architecture, the unique 100m high Glasgow Tower and planetarium for the black tie extravaganza.

From Hollywood to Glasgow, Swarovski will once again accessorise the celebrities and fashionistas in attendance with sparkling jewels and stylish accessories from its new ‘Wings of Fantasy’ AW11/12 Fashion Collection, as well as showcasing an impressive catwalk show, created exclusively by Natalie Colin and modeled by the Scottish Model of the Year finalists.

“Swarovski is delighted to partner with the Scottish Fashion Awards for a third year,” explains Natalie Colin, “this is the best platform to promote Scottish fashion talent who express their creativity internationally. Swarovski has always supported the emerging talents in fashion and related art-design fields.”

Attended by global fashion figures, designers and industry leaders, VIP’s will celebrate with the Scots in true style on the tartan carpet. Partners include Official Jeweller Swarovski, Official online partner Vogue.com Official Airport BAA Glasgow, Official Scottish media partner The Herald & Times Group, Official Radio Capital FM, Official Make-up Bobbi Brown, Official haircare Toni & Guy, Hotel Du Vin One Devonshire Gardens and Malmaison – Official Hotels, Official Car Mercedes Benz (West of Scotland), the corner stone of British style, high street retailer Marks & Spencer and new for 2011, Braehead, one of Scotland’s biggest and best shopping centre’s.

Founder and producer of the event Tessa Hartmann said: “It’s hard to believe this is our 6th annual event. For a country the size of Scotland, I am absolutely thrilled that this is recognized around the world as one of the key events in the global fashion calendar. “We have achieved a highly credible international platform to showcase our nations diverse range of fashion innovators and creators. To have this impressive panel and VIP guest list descend upon Scotland for one night is an honour and incredible opportunity for all the nominees. It wouldn’t be possible without the support of our generous partners and to them I am most grateful. Given the diversity of the judging panel and guest list, this is not just about showcasing our fashion talents; this is about showcasing a fashionable Scotland. From our innovative shopping destinations, luxurious hotels, local culture and of course leading style, it’s a major platform for Scotland as a nation.” Amongst the 12 awards, which open for entries on 13th March online, organizers have announced a new category for 2011 – ‘Fashion Ambassador’. This award will recognise the work of a non- Scottish individual / business, who has made a significant contribution to the promotion of Scottish designers, or Scottish manufacturing or the profile of Scottish fashion around the world. The evening will take the format of the official awards ceremony, a Gala VIP dinner, Swarovski catwalk show and the Capital FM after party, with exclusive live performances. As fashion figures begin to make their travel plans to this sought after event, the debate will begin. Who will walk away with Scotland’s most coveted fashion crown?

Scottish Fashion Awards 2011 - Fibre2fashion.com

Fashion students design new uniforms for umi - Fashion News UK

Students from the University of The Arts, London and the London College of Fashion were recently given a unique opportunity to showcase their design skills within the corporate world. The competition winners have just been announced and their designs will become the new uniform for umi hotels’ staff in Brighton, London and Moscow. The brief was to design clothing that reflected the corporate values of umi hotels in a timeless, yet contemporary style with an innovative new approach. Essentially, the umi management team were looking for clothing with innate design credentials that staff would take pleasure in wearing. Steve Lowy, Founder of umi hotels said “The presentations were all very impressive. The ideas really gave us a view of hospitality uniforms in a different light and we will definitely install the ideas from the winners throughout all the umi hotels over the next few months. This continues my belief of giving young people a chance to express themselves creatively and be directly productive in industry.” The winners, Eliza Herron (20) and Bethany Richard (19), both won £50 Topshop vouchers in addition to the pride of their ideas being incorporated into umi hotels’ staff uniforms this year. Bethany said, “My winning design was the New York coffee shop meets sophisticated Notting Hill hybrid, featuring classic pieces with neutrals and pops of colour. I am very humbled and excited to have won.” Both girls are looking for fashion internships for summer 2012 and also hope that winning the competition will help them find somewhere to begin their fashion industry careers in 2013 following their graduation. Eliza said, “It is a great feeling to win and to know that all my hard work had paid off. It will be an experience to put on my resume to make me stand out from someone else applying for the same job as I am in the future.”

umi hotels - Fibre2fashion.com

Carine Roitfeld to work on Barneys’ fall project - Fashion News USA

Barneys New York, the luxury specialty retailer, announced Carine Roitfeld will collaborate on its women's Fall 2011 campaign. Bringing her style and influence stateside, Ms. Roitfeld will serve as guest editor and stylist working alongside celebrated photographer Mario Sorrenti and Barneys New York Creative Director, Dennis Freedman, to create the campaign.

The campaign will launch in Fall 2011 with a celebration of Carine's iconic style and her collaboration with Barneys in the Madison Avenue flagship store. The looks created will be prominently featured in the store's world-renowned windows and across platforms including the fall mailer, advertising, and barneys.com.

"Carine is a one of a kind talent. She is both a muse and an inspiration. She has extraordinary individual style and infectious passion, and I have always admired her work," said Freedman, who brought the visionary Roitfeld and Sorrenti together for the project. "Collaborating with Mario Sorrenti to capture a more intimate side of Carine that few people know is an incredible gift to be able to bring directly to the Barneys New York customer."

Mario Sorrenti will shoot the campaign and create an exclusive short film featuring Ms. Roitfeld. Having worked together for over a decade at Vogue Paris, Mr. Sorrenti will create a personal view of her world, style and passion in a way that only he can.

"To be able to work in the US, with Barneys, is a dream come true," said Roitfeld. "It is my first time working on the retail side of the fashion business, and I am so excited. Barneys is my favorite store in the States and partnering with them has been thrilling for me."

BARNEYS NEW YORK (Barneys) is a luxury specialty retailer with flagship stores in New York City, Beverly Hills, Chicago, Seattle, Boston, Dallas, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Scottsdale.

Barneys New York - Fibre2fashion.com

New Zealand : Federation wins FINZ Communication Design Award - Fashion News New Zealand

Streetwear brand FEDERATION has been named the winner of the inaugural James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award ahead of two other distinguished finalists – CYBELE and MOOCHI.

Developed in collaboration between Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) and James & Wells Intellectual Property, the award celebrates creativity and excellence in fashion-specific communication design, which seeks to inspire, inform and influence consumer audiences.

The winner was announced last night at the opening of a public exhibition showcasing the three finalists’ work – Fashion Communication Design: Sending Messages – which will run during the New Zealand Fashion Festival at Sale St in Auckland, from March 22-27.

FEDERATION will receive intellectual property services to the value of NZ$5,000 from James & Wells Intellectual Property, as well as an annual membership subscription from FINZ.

Founded a decade ago, by husband-and-wife team Nick and Jenny Clegg, FEDERATION now ranks among New Zealand’s most successful international fashion brands; being sold in 18 countries across the Pacific, Asia, U.K, Europe, Middle East and North America.

FEDERATION targets ‘anyone who’s into street culture’ aged 18-35 years and has developed an aesthetic that involves ‘taking elements of pop culture, past or present, and messing with them’. Its self-described brand personality is ‘unconventional, artistic, quirky, humorous and youthful’.

Nick Clegg, co-founder of FEDERATION, says: “This award means a lot to us, because we’re really conscious about our brand and how we tell our story. Regardless of whether it’s an individual print, garment, look-book or Facebook post; everything is FEDERATION.

“With us, it’s a case of deciding ‘this is what we’re doing’ and ‘this is where we’re going’; let’s implement it. And, that’s based on a combination of things, which often stem from bouncing ideas off one another. We have such a great team. These people are awesome and we’re not going to change who we are to try and fit every market. We have to stay true to ourselves.”

The judging panel was led by Mike Hutcheson, co-founder of Colenso and former managing director of Saatchi & Saatchi, who now heads Image Centre Holdings. He was joined by Carrick Robinson, partner at James & Wells Intellectual Property, and FINZ executive officer, Mapihi Opai.

Mike Hutcheson [co-founder of Colenso and former managing director of Saatchi & Saatchi] says: “FEDERATION is up-front in saying: ‘we design what we want to wear and don’t necessarily follow trends’. This implies honesty, creativity and self-confidence, which expresses itself in the personality of the brand. They really understand their target audience, because the communication design is deliberate, consistently slick and well integrated.

“This is an eclectic brand that you can’t pigeonhole. It’s always experimenting and continuing to evolve, which sparks your curiosity and makes you want to find out what’s next.”

Carrick Robinson [partner at James & Wells Intellectual Property] says:

“FEDERATION has clearly and confidently delivered its message to the world. It’s great to see a company with such a firm grip on who it is as a brand, and a willingness to execute a strategy around this.”

Mapihi Opai [executive officer at Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)] says: “FEDERATION is a company that has a lot to shout about, but aggressive self-promotion just isn’t part of Nick and Jenny’s mindset. Instead, they choose to speak through the brand and it’s something they do exceptionally well, because that language transcends cultural barriers and is understood by people around the world.”

All three finalists will take home their respective printed works from the exhibition courtesy of Blue Star.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) is the voice of New Zealand’s fashion and apparel industry. Established in 2002, the non-profit organisation was founded by the industry to provide representation and support for the industry.

New Zealand’s most dynamic firm of patent attorneys, trade mark specialists and intellectual property lawyers, James & Wells is proud to support New Zealand’s fashion industry and has been a longstanding partner of Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ).

Blue Star is a trans-Tasman communications group, providing market leading solutions across sheet-fed, digital and web printing, as well as print management, direct mail and logistics.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) - Fibre2fashion.com

Registration for talented artists is in active stage for ‘Fashion Europe’ - Fashion News Europe

In relation to the upcoming start of the public activities and events of the Program “Fashion Europe” in support of the realization of the new strategy “EUROPE2020:” of the European Union, the European Fashion Council (EFC) created an international contest for artists from around the world.

The purpose of the contest id to create unique symbols – Logo, Slogan, Musical Anthem and Text to the Music, to represent the official union of the nationally represented European Fashion NGOs, which represents the interests of the European Commission, European Parliament and institutions, in the sphere of fashion and fashion design, and the related to them arts and events.

The competition is in its final stage and registration will continue until midnight on 31st March 2011!

The Executive Board of the European Fashion Council, made up of representatives from all 17 country-members will evaluate objectively and professionally every participant: artists, musicians, designers, or companies; whose contribution will gain credit on both on the European and World stages. The winners and their projects will be publicly announced and will accompany all events of the European Fashion Council and its partners.

Rules:
The Slogan must represent the idea of United European Fashion in a maximum of 3-4 words in English and French

An attractive Musical Anthem for the European Fashion Council is the key element that will unite people, arts, initiatives and charities. It is required to last approximately 3 min. with a shorter 1 min. version.

In addition to the musical theme of the European fashion organization, there is an open invitation to all text writers, poets, literary adepts and others, to create an original Text for Music. The text must have the quality to be performed within 2 min.

The objective and final decision of the Executive Board of the European Fashion Council will be announced on a large scale within one week after the submission period’s end. The winning projects will be registered and used immediately after, thus bringing immediate and growing popularity to their creators. For the recording of the Music Anthem and its Text the European Fashion Council will invite world renowned music performers and will inform the public and media about its choices and ideas.

31st March 2011 is also the deadline for the registration and participation of young European fashion designers, age 15 to 30, in the “European Fashion Rise” contest, who wish to receive international evaluation and merit.

The registration of young designers is done only through the European Fashion Council – official representatives of the European Commission’s interests for fashion and fashion design. Again 31st March 2011 is the final opportunity for countries that aren’t currently part of the contest to join, which is done by the previously invited organizations through contacting the current Presidency headquartered in Bulgaria. “European Fashion Rise” is the right path for realizing your dreams of becoming a Fashion designer and further on developing your own brand. It is the first of its kind European career booster for young stylists and fashion designers, giving them an objective evaluation of talent and providing future long term international opportunities for success and career development. It is organized and produced by the European Fashion Council as a part of the upcoming new cultural program of the European Commission aimed at realizing the new Strategy “EUROPE2020”.

European Fashion Council - Fibre2fashion.com

Alvanon Academic Programme for design universities & colleges - Fashion News USA

Alvanon Inc, the world's leading apparel fit expert, announced it has launched a global academic program to help apparel design students establish a comprehensive knowledge and appreciation of customized fit processes, strategies and standards, enabling them to design better fitting clothes.

The Alvanon Academic Program 2011 will give students direct access to the apparel industry's most advanced sizing, fit and communications tools – at significantly discounted rates. The program will include master classes in consumer sizing research and analysis by renowned apparel fit experts, and the use of customized design fit forms for pattern making, draping and fitting classes.

The launch follows a series of successful pilot partnerships with leading design colleges around the world, including the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. Other colleges participating in the pilot program include University College Falmouth, Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design, London College of Fashion, De Montfort University and Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK; and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the Clothing Industry Training Authority in Hong Kong.

Janice Wang, chief executive officer, Alvanon Group explained: "Our successful partnerships with some of the world's foremost fashion colleges has persuaded us to formalize the program and open it up to all interested academic parties." She added: "The program is a way for us to give something tangible back to our industry. By providing insight and tools that are actively being used by the wider industry, we are giving the next generation of apparel designers real-world experience and helping prepare them for a bright and successful career."

Through seminars or visits to Alvanon's regional offices in London, Germany, New York and Hong Kong, students will learn how customized fit strategies, fit forms and pattern blocks – executed consistently and continuously throughout the global garment development process – can deliver greater customer satisfaction, brand loyalty and a competitive advantage.

Students will also learn how 3D body-scanning data can provide consistent and successful regional and brand fit strategies. Then using Alvanon's advanced industry standard mannequins, AlvaForms, students will learn how to design and fit clothes for a target consumer shape. The program will also include several custom-made AlvaBlock pattern generation tools for the selected AlvaForm shape.

Barbara Bundy, vice president of education at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, said: "Alvanon has quietly changed the way we teach about apparel design at FIDM. The faculty and students love AlvaForms because they enable us to achieve a consistent fit in our pattern labs." She continues: "At FIDM, we believe in giving students a realistic and practical education that will further their career in the industry. Alvanon's tools help us achieve that."

Through its three integrated divisions, AlvaInsight, AlvaForm and AlvaBlock, Alvanon offers practical solutions that enable its clients to achieve fit consistently and continuously from design through to consumer. AlvaInsight is its 'front end,' strategic consulting division comprised of fashion and retail industry experts who draw upon apparel business insight, technical design expertise, rigorous statistical analysis and practical experience to help clients define their target markets' specific fit criteria. The AlvaForm division, comprised of 3D artists and anatomical 'life' sculptors, develops and supplies customized mannequins that enable clients to create and maintain their fit standards consistently across the supply chain. The AlvaBlock division develops tailored blocks based on a client's AlvaForm, minimizing pattern-making inconsistencies across a global supply chain.

Alvanon Inc - Fibre2fashion.com

First Communion fashion show at MADRID NOVIAS - Fashion News Spain

The latest ideas in Wedding, Party-Wear and First Communion fashion will once again be the focal-point of MADRID NOVIAS, the International Bridal Fashion Exhibition, which is due to stage its ninth edition between 5th and 8th May in Hall 14.1 at Feria de Madrid.

This trade fair, which is organised by IFEMA in collaboration with Expotecnic, will bring together the new collections for the year 2012 season at this edition, based on the participation of some 60 leading companies from the fields of bridal fashion, bridegroom fashion, formal clothing and First Communion attire.

Over its first two days, 5th and 6th May, and coinciding with its trade exhibition, MADRID NOVIAS will host the staging of a comprehensive programme of fashion shows on the CIBELES MADRID NOVIAS catwalk, located in the same hall as the stands. This will constitute a unique opportunity for visitors to gain a first-hand insight into the latest trends and new features in the season's collections, based on the participation of 19 Spanish designers at this edition.

Among these designers, 12 will present bridal collections, 4 will present bridegroom collections, 2 will focus on party-wear and 1 designer will present a lingerie collection. Hannibal Laguna, Devota&Lomba, Miquel Suay, Ana Torres, Isabel Zapardiez, Rafael Urquizar, Francisco Quintans, Javier Arnaiz, La Boheme 1994, Jorge Terra, Emperatriz, Charo Peres, Pol Nunez and Cyntia Vila are the designers who will present fashion shows at this edition.

Furthermore, based on the success of the last edition, a First Communion fashion show will once again take place, an entirely unique event in Spain that will feature the participation of the following companies: Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada, Barcarola, Hortensia Maeso for Rubio Kids, Javier Larraínzar, Miquel Suay, Victorio&Lucchino and Lovely Day.

Throughout the course of the fair, MADRID NOVIAS will be open from 9.30 a.m. through to 7.30 p.m., except for the Sunday 8th when the event will close at 4.30 p.m.

IFEMA - Feria de Madrid - Fibre2fashion.com

Khadi fashion show steals hearts of one and all - Fashion News India

A fashion show solely showcasing khadi cotton and silk textiles clothing stole the hearts of the khadi lovers in the city of Ahmedabad. The fashion show was hosted at the ‘Khadi Utsav’, an exhibition of khadi textiles and garments.

Ahmedabad is playing host to a month long ‘Khadi Utsav’ in which more than 273 stalls have been set up, displaying khadi products from across various states of India. The fair which began on March 6 will run till April 6, 2011.

The concept of khadi textiles is synonymous with the father of the nation – Mahatma Gandhi. Khadi textiles were the driving force which united India in the movement to secure independence and in order to achieve self reliance in textile fabrics.

Today khadi institutions are producing good quality fabrics and in turn providing economic independence to the lowest strata of society, who are involved in the spinning and weaving activities of producing khadi fabrics.

According to Mr Anupam Mazumdar – a well known textile designer and consultant and some one who has been closely associated with handloom weavers of khadi fabrics, “The biggest advantage of wearing khadi textiles is that it carries the lowest carbon footprint among all textiles, which makes it a sustainable fabric”.

Mr Mazumdar conceptualized and directed the fashion show. He is also credited with designing the stole worn by the medal winners at the Commonwealth games held in India in 2010.

The fashion designers who partook in the fashion show included; Barsha Dutta, who runs a clothing brand in the name of “Brishti”, Rupal Majumdar who has a boutique called “Rupal’s” and finally Rutu Patel of “Rutu’s”.

Barsha Dutta presented pieces of western apparel designed from khadi fabrics. Rupal Majumdar too showcased her collection of ethnic garments and Rutu Patel presented an Indo-western fusion clothing collection.

The models totaling to around 20, showcased clothing made from shimmering silks and 100 percent pure cotton khadi fabrics.

Another highlight of the show was a fusion dance presented by young teenagers in between the fashion sequences.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India - fibre2fashion.com

Jackie Christie Black Collection to hit Fashion Minga Runway

NBA wife and top fashion designer Jackie Christie released her 2011 Jackie Christie "Black Collection" at LA Fashion Week for the popular Fashion Minga Runway show at Los Angeles hot spot Boulevard3 to a standing room only crowd of fashion connoisseurs.

Attendants were appreciative of her line that offered sexy, well-defined pieces that had a strong European flare, reminding one of the Paris and N.Y. runways. The collection raised major applause as her models cascaded down the catwalk, including celebrity model/actress Angell Conwell, from the popular TV soap The Young & The Restless.

Other celebrity guests who attended the show were J.R. Martinez of All My Children, Natasha Alam of True Blood, Printz Board of The Black Eyed Peas, Angell Conwell of The Young & The Restless, Thom Barry of Cold Case and The Fast & Furious, Vanessa Branch of Pirates of the Caribbean 1, 2, and 3, Baroness Stefanie Von Pfetten and Cedric Martinez of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Kenan Thompson of Saturday Night Live and Snakes on a Plane, Donna D'Errico of Austin Powers Goldmember and Baywatch, Harvey E. Walden,of VH1 Celebrity Fit Club, and Chani Christie, star of Cali Girls' cast members from Days of Our Lives and many more.

"It is always a pleasure for me to show my lines here in Los Angeles to such a supportive, fun and fashion forward crowd. I'm looking forward to showing my spring/summer 2012 collection this fall," states Christie Jackie, who will donate proceeds from the sales of her collection to local Los Angeles-based charities and homeless shelters, to serve the underprivileged with food, clothing and hygiene supplies through the Infinite Love foundation, which she runs with her husband, NBA star Doug Christie.

Jackie Christie, fashion designer, model, producer and best selling author, has dressed many celebrities, athletes, NBA wives, and many more in her pieces. She is the wife of NBA star Doug Christie and the CEO of the successful record label Jean Rah Fya Records.

www.fibre2fashion.com

Sue Wong pays tribute to My Fair Lady at LA Fashion Week

The always glamorous and effortlessly elegant fashion designer, Sue Wong, showcased her evocative My Fair Lady inspired Fall 2011 Collection during Los Angeles Fashion Week at her historic Hollywood home, The Cedars, on Friday, March 18, 2011. Guests, who included fashion editors, stylists, and celebrities enjoyed a champagne brunch while models roamed the ornate estate.

The lavish event paid tribute to My Fair Lady's personification of the Edwardian era which legendary designer, Sir Cecil Beaton, characterized so eloquently in the 1964 film with gorgeous embroidery and applique, soutache passementerie, jet beadwork, and lace trim. Guests rose to the occasion by donning their favorite ascot hats and Sue Wong's sumptuously inspired gowns.

Actress Tippi Hedren attended in an ultra chic fedora, playing off the character of Professor Higgins, "I think the collection is probably one of the most beautiful in the whole world no matter how long you go back in the history of fashion. Sue Wong has such an air of elegance, glamour; everything you could possibly want," shared the Hollywood icon.

The Fall 2011 Collection is an homage to not only this magnificently detailed Edwardian styling, but to the film's theme of transformation as well, which is a prevailing theme in the basic design philosophy of the designer. "I believe that clothing has the ability to empower and transform a woman into the fantasy of her choice," says Wong, whose motto, "Beauty. Magic. Transformation." echoes the central theme of the film, in which a common street flower vendor, a 'guttersnipe' is transformed by one Professor Higgins into an elegant duchess.

The collection features ornately wrought gowns and cocktail dresses in rich satin, flowing chiffons and fine laces, embellished with Edwardian inspired beadwork, intricate embroidery and delicate applique with skirts of organza and ostrich feather. Beautiful, romantic, and elegant, the collection "can transform any woman into a goddess, enchantress and duchess" said Wong.

Sue Wong designs are sold in fine boutiques and department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom and in more than 27 countries globally.

Sponsors for the event included Fiji Water, PAMA Liqueur, South Coast Winery Resort and Spa, Napoleon Perdis, Hair By Sheena Mi Lee, Michael Antonio, Izze Sparkling Juice, What's Ur Bag, Ardell, and China Glaze.

www.fibre2fashion.com

Search is on for aspiring Emirati fashion designers - Fashion News - UAE

The Dubai Ladies Club will host a fashion show at The Bride Show Dubai on 2 April to signal the opening of submissions for the fourth annual Oriental Red Carpet Emirati Designers Competition.

The highly anticipated runway show will feature designs from last year’s competition winners and will take place at 6:00pm on the closing day of the four day bridal extravaganza.

Entrance to the competition is open to all local Emiratis who run fashion-based businesses from their homes. The three winning designers will gain a year of marketing support from the Dubai Ladies Club so that they can launch their business on a larger scale, in the hopes of securing a fulfilling career in the fashion industry.

This is the first year that The Dubai Ladies Club has chosen to launch the competition at the annual bridal event, which runs from 30 March to 2 April in the Sheikh Saeed Halls of the Dubai International Conference and Exhibition Centre.

Daphne Cota, Exhibition Manager of The Bride Show Dubai says that the well-trafficked event is a natural setting for an Emirati fashion talent competition.

“The Bride Show Dubai is focused on Arab fashion with an international flair. Each year established and emerging Emirati and regional designers come to the show to exhibit traditional and contemporary wedding gowns, abayas, jalabiyas and accessories.

“Many of the young Emiratis who will enter the contest have no doubt attended The Bride Show Dubai in the past, and perhaps even sought inspiration from some of the exhibiting designers.”

Oriental Red Carpet winners are chosen by a panel of judges from various factions of the fashion industry. Judges will choose three top designers in August 2011 after meeting a shortlist of 20 aspiring designers.

Fatima Al Hammdi, Events Manager of Dubai Ladies Club commented, “Our objective in hosting and organising this competition is to encourage young Emirati female entrepreneurs and designers to come forward and unveil their latest designs to an elite audience and clientele. We are confident that this year will bring to the foreground the works and talent of new and promising Emirati designers.”

Past competition winners have gone on to make waves in the fashion industry. The 2008 winner, Reem Beljafla co-founded Das Collection with her sister Hind to produce high-fashion abayas, which are now stocked in London department store Harrod’s and in high-end boutiques throughout the Middle East. Das Collection will take part once again at The Bride Show Dubai this year.

Last year’s winner of the ready-to-wear category, Mariam Al Mazro, who sells stylish designs under her own label, Mimi Fashion Designs, was highlighted in the latest Ahlan! Hot 100 list which recognises outstanding people in the UAE.

Al Hammadi added, “This is a fantastic opportunity for young emerging designers to showcase their creative skills, push boundaries and take fashion to another level. Since we hosted the first competition three years ago, interest has continued to grow with a record number of entries submitted for last year’s competition. In 2011, we look forward to impressing our audience by introducing new talented designers with a unique and innovative style that reflects the mix of modern and oriental designs.”

Budding Emirati fashion designers who are keen to enter the competition should contact the Dubai Ladies Club. The Bride Show Dubai is the region’s top event for fashion lovers, brides-to-be and anyone with an interest in style. More than 200 exhibitors from around the Middle East and beyond are taking part to showcase wedding gowns, haute couture designs, jewellery, beauty solutions, fine chocolate and more. The event will be officially inaugurated by patron Her Highness Sheikha Sheikha Bint Saif, Chairwoman of the Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE and wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President of the UAE on Wednesday 30th March. The show is open from 2:30pm to 10:30pm and runs until Saturday 2nd April 2011 in Sheikh Saeed Halls 1, 2 and 3, Dubai International Exhibition Centre.

www.fibre2fashion.com

Gucci signs MoU with Al Tayer Insignia - Fashion News UAE

Gucci, one of the world's luxury fashion brands, is pleased to announce its direct entry into the United Arab Emirates, through the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the establishment of a joint venture with Al Tayer Insignia, the largest luxury retailer in the Middle East.

The joint venture will be headquartered in Dubai and will take the brand's longstanding relationship with Al Tayer Insignia to a new level of collaboration.

As a result of a multiyear franchise relationship with Al Tayer Group spanning over a decade, Gucci currently counts six points of sale in the UAE. With one store located in Abu Dhabi, at Marina Mall; three stores are spread across key locations in Dubai - Mall of the Emirates, The Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers and The Dubai Mall. Gucci also has a presence in Harvey Nichols - Dubai and Bloomingdale's - Dubai with corners in these two department stores.

Part of Al Tayer Group, a UAE-based diversified business conglomerate, Al Tayer Insignia represents over 35 of the world's most renowned luxury brands and operates nearly 80 stores in the region. The company currently employs over 1600 people and has continued to experience healthy growth over the past few years. Headquartered in the UAE, it also has operations in Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Qatar.

Patrizio di Marco, President and CEO of Gucci, said: "We are extremely proud to announce this new agreement with our long standing partner in the Middle East. This is a dynamic region of the world, where Gucci products have been appreciated for many years thanks to the brand's unique balance of luxury heritage and fashion authority."

Di Marco continued, "The decision to establish this venture in such an important market is consistent with Gucci's stated objective to further reinforce its direct retail network, which today numbers 317 stores worldwide. Gucci was born as a retail entity when Guccio Gucci founded the company in Florence 90 years ago in 1921. Today, in the year of our 90th anniversary, we intend to continue increasing our retail presence around the world, in order to convey the values of outstanding quality, unique craftsmanship and commitment to made in Italy, which are a fundamental part of Gucci's DNA. "

"Having introduced the brand in the UAE in 1999, it gives us immense pleasure to see the phenomenal success of Gucci in the market. We are enthusiastic about this strategic development in our relationship," said Khalid Al Tayer, Chief Operating Officer, Al Tayer Group.

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