Jo Black Craze to set the runway ‘A Blaze’ at AFWNY

Jo Black Craze will showcase his newest collection at Africa Fashion Week New York produced by Adirée. AFWNY will take place July 14th, 15th, and 16th in the Broad Street Ballroom in NYC’s financial district.

Designer Olusola Elegba is the CEO of Jo Black Craze Ltd, a predominantly male clothing line. Men’s wear has been a growing industry. Trends have gone from baggy (1990’s) to extra-skinny (early 2000’s) to finding the fit that is just right. Jo Black Craze is known for their signature blazers, which is an important piece, found in nearly every closet. Elegba’s designs include polo shirts, cashmere sweaters, and velvet shoes. Each pieces’ color, and texture comes together to emit an attitude and lifestyle.

Jo Black Craze will showcase at Africa Fashion Week New York on Thursday, July 14th.

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Beauty of the natural world on dance floor!!!

American Flora is a boutique yoga and dance wear company creating high-performance garments inspired by a passion for dance and the beauty of the natural world. Founded by a veteran dancer and dance instructor, American Flora designs and garment manufacturer that fit the true woman -- her life, her movement and her individuality.

American Flora uses the highly engineered and supremely eco-friendly Repreve fabric as the primary material in each of its garments. Repreve is made from 100% recycled pre and post consumer plastic material. Its fit and feel are unlike any other performance fabrics on the market -- it provides a superior combination of luxury, comfort, and sustainability.

Every American Flora garment and its packaging is crafted in the United States from 100% US sourced material. From the brass American Flora signature tags to the grommets that accent many pieces, even the sewn-in "Made in the USA" labels -- everything is made with pride in America.

Read more about Beauty of the natural world on dance floor!!! @ Fibre2fashion

'Online ITMA 2011' an unique concept; gets overwhelm response

Fibre2fashion.com – a leading B2B portal dedicated to textile-garment and fashion allied industries, has exclusively organized unmatchable ITMA Barcelona pre-event, pre-awareness campaign ‘Online ITMA-2011’ for its valued Exhibitors.

Going live Online ITMA 2011 from June 22nd till 15th October 2011 (3.5 Months), the campaign enables all ITMA exhibitors to give a pre-cap on their products & services to their potential buyers before actually being seen at the ITMA Barcelona -2011, thus re-enforcing a brand recall. Online ITMA-2011 would start three months prior to fair at Barcelona (Spain) to help its exhibitors gain lucrative business.
Being internet base campaign, Online ITMA 2011 attracts visitations from every corner of the world and facilitates accommodation of huge number of visitors. The show is all set to redefine the concept of online shows.
With in a short span, the Campaign has gained popularity. Ms. Kruti Shanischara Business Development Manager, Fibre2Fashion, divulges- “We have got overwhelmed response to the concept being one of its kind. Many Biggies of industry have signed up. This is just a beginning and there’s a lot more in the kitty for the exhibitors at the Online ITMA-2011.” Further she assures- “Our team is geared up and very confident to be meeting aspirations of our exhibitors.”

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World's largest apron - A record effort by Ambadi Enterprises

Ambadi Enterprises Ltd., a part of the USD 3.8 billion Murugappa Group, displayed the world’s largest apron on the grassy expanse of YMCA grounds at Chennai. The all white apron measuring about 25 metres x 22 metres (total fabric area of 853 sq. metres, weighing 100 kgs) is expected to beat the current Guinness record of 15.4 metres x 17.6 metres held by a Spanish Manufacturer since 2007.

718 metres of 20sx20s sheeting greige fabric purchased in Karur (Tamil Nadu) was transformed to the final apron displayed at Chennai (Tamil Nadu) today, by the joint effort of teams at the different units of Ambadi. The fabric was bleached at Erode and the apron outline was sketched at the design studio at Gurgaon (Haryana). Finally the cutting, stitching and printing was done at the Kannur unit (Kerala). The cutting team of 26 women spent 182 man-days to cut the fabric and the stitching team of 8 spent 40 man-days to put the apron together.

“The teams had to overcome a few difficulties during the whole process – including, having to factor in the Kerala monsoon effect. For instance, they didn’t have enough space to lay and cut the fabric and had to lay it in the vacant lot outside the factory even as the monsoon rains were threatening to pour down. The Ambadi logo measuring 5 sq metres was a critical part of the design and took longer time to print and dry in the damp weather. In all, the efforts have paid off and today, we have been able to put out a bold statement about our capabilities,” elaborated Vishy Shenoy, Business Head - Ambadi Enterprises.

Read More about World's largest apron - A record effort by Ambadi Enterprises @ Fibre2fashion

Arvind Limited unveils flagship store in Hyderabad

As a part of its strategy to double its fabric retail revenues to Rs. 800 crore in the next couple of years through focused approach in domestic market, Arvind Limited, the global textile conglomerate and leading apparel retailer, today launched its first flagship store in Hyderabad. With 13 stores already operational under the new 'Arvind Store' concept, Arvind plans to open 120 stores in India in the current fiscal.
The new outlet, a trendy superstore spread over 4,000 square feet, comes with the avant-garde design theme and a swanky look capable of enriching the garment shopping experience of the buyers. The 'Arvind Store' brings the best of Arvind under one roof - the best of its fabrics, its leading apparel brands and customized wardrobe solutions. With an infusion of new categories like poly-wool, high value Giza cotton and light-weight denim suiting, Lifestyle Apparel, in addition to shirting fabrics, Lifestyle fabrics the discerning customers of Arvind will be able to customize a complete wardrobe.
The 'Arvind Store' will retail all of Arvind's premium brands namely Arrow, US Polo, Flying Machine and Izod. 'Arvind Denim Labs' (ADL), a bespoke denim concept will offer customized washed denim - a first of its kind in India and perhaps the world. 'Studio Arvind', a bespoke tailoring solution, will bring the latest fits and styles in fashion.
Addressing the media after inaugurating the outlet, Mr. Kulin S. Lalbhai, Chief Manager, Arvind Limited, said, "The 'Arvind Store' is a revolutionary new concept which brings many firsts to Indian retail. Our stores so far have been very well received and we have ambitious plans to launch our stores across the country. This year, we will be focusing to have sizable presence in 4 to 5 states. We are planning to cover entire country by the end of 2015".

Read more about Arvind Limited unveils flagship store in Hyderabad @ Fibre2fashion

Aamaa A La Mode to bring nations together through fashion

AAMAA A LA MODE to present at Africa Fashion Week New York 2011 produced by Adirée in New York City’s Financial District. AFWNY is set to take place on July 14th, 15th and 16th at the Broad Street Ballroom in New York City’s financial district.
Inspired by globalization, AAMAA A LA MODE intends to bring nations together through fashion, inspired by designs from different countries to create a global nation. The company uses high-end materials, mainly African cotton wax prints, directly printed and sourced in Ghana, Africa.
“Fusion, Integration, Merging”-Mobereola
Designer Toyosi Mobereola creates collections that are based on the fusion of traditional and contemporary African fabrics to create a unique Afro-centric feel.
AFWNY includes runway shows hosting 21+ designers from various countries in Africa and those of the African Diaspora, exhibitions, and industry networking events. Opening designer Korto Momolu and designers like Washington Roberts, Saint Wobil, AAMAA Couture, Bill Witherspoon and others will showcase.

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Womenswear brand - Fida to more than double store count

SNG Fashions-owned ‘Fida’ – a womenswear brand is mulling to more than double its store count within the next two years. 

Currently, Fida – a Kolkata based brand is available through 22 outlets in 13 Tier-I and Tier-II cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Delhi, Bangalore, Indore, Bhopal, Surat and Kanpur.
“However, the news stores which will be unveiled, will all be opened in Tier-I cities like Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Bangalore, Hyderabad, etc”, says Mr Sharad Nawalgadia, MD - SNG Fashions.
60 percent of the revenue generated by SNG Fashions is from Tier-I cities, with the rest accounted for by the smaller Tier-II cities. Its target audience is mainly women between the ages of 16-35 years.
Revealing more details to fibre2fashion, Mr Nawalgadia said, “Our aim is to have 50 stores through out the country by the next financial year”.
Speaking about the spending behaviour of consumers, he informed, “The spending behavior of the people has improved a lot. Consequently, it becomes our responsibility that we offer them good quality products”.
He added, “We take care to ensure that, our customers do not complain about problems like color fading in our fabrics and, since we use different kinds of fabrics in our collections, we take extra care about such issues”.

Read More about Womenswear brand - Fida to more than double store count @ Fibre2fashion

Fashion designer Gurvinder Arora opens AG Design Studio

Delhi-based, fashion designers - Gurvinder Arora recently opened ‘AG Design’ studio in Noida and Kanpur.

The collection in his new studio includes, designs for men and women starting from kaftans to churidaars and indian kurtis and from skirt, tops to leisure wear trouser, shirt, capri and many more.
Gurvinder is a pass out from the prestigious National Institute of Fashion Techology (NIFT) – Delhi and has been in the fashion industry for over 10 years now.
His design studio will provide a wide range of new concepts in terms of fashion, fabrics, embroideries and silhouettes.
AG Design Studio will cater to the Indian as well as Middle-East and European market. The collections incorporate fabrics ranging from cottons to chiffons, silks to georgettes, linens and many more.
An experienced team of AG Design Studio will source fabrics from various states of India, so that the fabric and embroidery used is very unique and innovative in its own way.
The prices have been kept affordable, keeping in mind, all classes of customers, who aspire to wear designer clothing. The price range starts from Rs 2,000 onwards, for most of the collections.

Read more about Fashion designer Gurvinder Arora opens AG Design Studio @ Fibre2fashion

View More imafes of AG Design Studio & Fashion designer Gurvinder Arora's Collection 

Umit Benan Sahin as fashion consultant for Trussardi

Trussardi Group is pleased to announce that the new Spring/Summer Mens Collection 2012 will be presented during a special performance on Sunday, June, 19, at 5:00 pm in Palazzo Trussardi Alla Scala, the group's headquarters at Piazza della Scala 5.

The event will be streamed live on Trussardi website. And on the main fashion websites worldwide.
The Trussardi Spring Summer Collection 2012 has been designed by Umit Benan  Sahin, fashion consultant for Trussardi's men and women’s collections.
Trussardi is a byword for excellence, discreet sophistication, experimentation and innovation. Trussardi Group was founded in Bergamo by Dante Trussardi in 1911 and it is specialized in luxury clothing and accessories for men and women.

Read More about Umit Benan Sahin as fashion consultant for Trussardi @ Fibre2fashion

Editalo Designs to be showcased at AFWNY 2011

As New York City’s Financial District is gearing up for Africa Fashion Week (New York) (AFWNY). Adirée, the parent company and producer of the event announces that elegance will be the backdrop for the runway show of the latest collection of Editalo Designs.

AFWNY is set to take place on July 14th, 15th and 16th at the Broad Street Ballroom in New York City’s financial district. Editalo (Olatide backwards) designs will be showcased at AFWNY 2011 on Saturday, July 16th.

June 6, 2 011 the carpets of the CFDA fashion awards had celebrities and icons wearing designers such as Proenza Schouler wit h colorful print, style and flair.

Olatide Adeniyi began designing for herself and friends in 2008. As demand grew she established her line early 2009.

“Perfect for red carpet events or the woman who simply desires to be noticed, Editalo Designs has a youthful artistic charge––her ready-to-wear blends custom materials with contemporary style,” said AFWNY Director, Adiat Disu.

Adeniyi, has an artistic vision characterized as traditional and modern. Editalo Designs pays tribute to Adeniyi’s Nigerian heritage by incorporating African fabrics with western inspired designs and aesthetic.

Read more about Editalo Designs to be showcased at AFWNY 2011 @ Fibre2fashion

Tennis stars promote British fashion internationally

 
On the occasion of the WTA (Womens Tennis Association) annual pre-Wimbledon party and in honour of the 125th anniversary of Wimbledon, the WTA and the British Fashion Council, an organisation charged with promoting British fashion internationally, unveiled a unique partnership celebrating the strong connection between the stars of women’s tennis and the world of fashion. The aim of the WTA-British Fashion Council collaboration is to feature British designers, raise the off-court profile of the stars of women’s tennis, and further extend the link between the sport and fashion.

Through this one-of-a-kind project, a select group of WTA stars will be dressed in customised dresses, created specifically for them by such quintessentially British designers as Stella McCartney, Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, Giles Deacon, Matthew Williamson, Richard Nicoll, Hussein Chalayan, and David Koma, among others. Many of the designers will be accompanying the WTA stars to the annual pre-Wimbledon party - co-hosted for the sixth year in a row by the WTA and Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group at Kensington Rooftop Gardens in London on June 16th, 2011 - and show off their creations to the global media. The dresses will be auctioned off during Wimbledon with the proceeds to be equally split between WTA charities and the British Fashion Council’s Princess of Wales Charitable Trust.

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Swapnil Shinde presents ‘Ford Fiesta Futuristic Collection’

The sales professionals at Maritime Ford - the premiere Ford dealership in Manitowoc and surrounding areas - really think the new Ford Fiesta is a work of art … and fashion. This was backed up by real life events recently in India.

Illustrious fashion designer Swapnil Shinde recently presented the ‘Ford Fiesta Futuristic Collection’ at the Fiesta Café in Select Citywalk Mall, New Delhi. The ‘Energy in Motion’ collection was inspired by Ford’s Kinetic Design philosophy - that exemplifies bold and futuristic styling of its all-new Fiesta sedan.
The line of clothing displayed an international touch that matched the Ford Fiesta’s global DNA. With a clever use of cues inspired by the car's underlying design theme, Swapnil’s creativity was stimulated by the aspects of the car, including flowing lines from the overall design, a bold color palette, and smart cuts from the car's dynamic spirit.
Swapnil really managed to bring alive the striking features of the Fiesta. His creation showcased innovative designs that electrified the runway.
Talking about the collection, designer Swapnil Shinde said “The new Fiesta brings with it a refreshing and energetic touch to design and style. The thought of translating the car's bold kinetic design theme into my creations was a true inspiration. It is great to have designed a collection that's a tribute to the stylish and innovative Fiesta which has already gained high interest even before its official launch.”

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Iona Crawford nominated Young Designer of the Year

Up and coming women’s fashion designers, Iona Crawford, will be partnering with Prince of Scots to introduce bespoke collections to the North American market. Collections are feminine and timeless captivating ones fashion senses with textile prints and textures, silk, cashmere, and artistry are all very Iona and very Scotland. Stunning short dresses, evening gowns, tailored pieces, statement coats, scarves, and hand bags complete the collection.

Iona first brought her inspiring lifestyle to New York’s Fashion Runway via the Dressed to Kilt event. Recognized as a premier Scottish Designer by Vogue, Crawford’s silk Farquhar Dress from her Alisa Collection was a crowd favorite at the April show. Iona is also nominated for Young Designer of the Year in the 2011 Scottish Fashion Awards. Drawing inspiration from beauty of Scotland, Crawford’s collections will make you want to fall in love again.
“Iona is a true artist in creating timeless contemporary style. She remains true to her humble roots. Choosing the good life of rural Stirling, Scotland over the glitter of London is a testament to her passion” said Sandi Casal, PR and Fashion Director.

Read More about Iona Crawford nominated Young Designer of the Year @ Fibre2fashion

Malindy Elene to debut Reem Acra bridal gowns

Malindy Elene Bridal celebrates 10 years of helping brides in St. Petersburg find their dream wedding gown. As a provider of couture bridal gowns – the store is constantly tracking the latest trends in bridal designs.
June 10th – 11th, Malindy Elene Bridal is pleased to debut a bridal designer by the name of Reem Acra. Reem Acra is an internationally known fashion designer whose wedding gowns have received much acclaim for the unique user of embroidery, beadwork and Swarovski crystals. Her designs blend a mix of classical tradition with modern couture.
“At Malindy Elene, we seek out the latest trends. When I fell in love with the Reem Acra collection at Bridal Market in New York this spring, I knew I had to begin carrying the designer in our store,” said Malindy Bengston, owner of Malindy Elene Bridal Couture.
The trunk show will showcase gowns from Acra’s latest collection, including special sale incentives that are available during the trunk show only. The show is by appointment and due to the limited number of openings, brides should book their appointments in advance.

Learn More about Malindy Elene to debut Reem Acra bridal gowns @ Fibre2fashion

Brooke Hyden’s Spring Stylists’ Picks at Zappos

Zappos Style Expert, Brooke Hyden, releases her spring Stylists’ Picks, featuring the hottest trends for the spring fashion season. Brooke Hyden is a style guru and visual merchandising strategist at Zappos, and she has pulled together numerous looks to be featured in the Stylists’ Picks this spring, so customers will be able to create easy-to-assemble outfits for any occasion.

Brooke’s fashion savvy spans all categories, from couture to outdoor, as she lives all of the lifestyles she loves and knows so well. She holds degrees in both fashion design and french, and spent five years designing jewellry for her own label which has been worn by celebrities and been seen in movies and on TV. Bringing this experience to the customer through Stylists’ Picks is her forte, and it takes the worry out of finding the perfect outfit for a special occasion.

“Pulling together my Stylists’ Picks for this spring was especially fun. While this season's fashion has a taste of 80’s retro, it is fresh and new for this generation, with different color combinations and more flattering fits for all types and occasions,” says Hyden.

Read more about Brooke Hyden’s Spring Stylists’ Picks at Zappos @ Fibre2fashion

Take That!!! Robbie Williams to launch ‘Farrell’ range

Robbie Williams is to launch a menswear label for Autumn 2011 to be stocked exclusively in House of Fraser stores and online at Shopdirect.com.

The brand, which is called Farrell after Robbie’s grandfather Jack, will hit stores in September. The range comprises items such as a Crombie 3/4 length coat, button shawl collar dinner jacket in herringbone and tailored trouser. It also includes casualwear pieces such as cable-knit cardigans and fleece hooded sweatshirts.
Accessories including flat caps and polka dot scarves will also be available.
Robbie's inspiration for the collection came from his granddad, Jack Farrell, and was created in homage to his style. His aim was to create a collection with a heritage feel combined with a modern style. The collection nods to Savile Row tailoring and branding and logos are kept discreet and on the inside of garments.

Read More about Take That!!! Robbie Williams to launch ‘Farrell’ range @ Fibre2fashion

Increasing male shoppers influence menswear industry

Shopping is generally assumed to be women's domain, until recently. Men, generally do not have the lust for fashion as their female counterparts, but the recent trends in the fashion industry shows that men are also taking an active interest in grooming their personality.

During the past one year, 12.2 million people have purchased menswear, an increase of 25% comparatively over the previous year. Hugo Boss, the designer menswear brands has reported a double digit growth during the fiscal year, 2010.
In UK, Marks & Spencer water-repellent menswear promoted by footballer Jamie Redknapp is up by 27%. Lord and Taylor posted a double digit growth for its menswear. Along with menswear apparels, accessories also see increased growth.
Current day's families, mostly led by females are a source of inspiration for men of today. They learn to shop like their mother and sister. Their attitude of shopping with ease, and in leisure has been inspired from that. Men are equally cost conscious like their female counterparts.

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Launch of GIMS UHF-RFID Linen & Uniform Tracking System

InvoTech Systems Inc, provider of the GIMS uniform and inventory control system for hotels, casinos, resorts, and theme parks worldwide for nearly 20 years, announced the launch of its GIMS Ultra-High Frequency Radio Frequency ID Uniform and Linen Systems.

The new UHF-RFID system creates greater efficiency and accountability by automating tracking of thousands of uniform and linen items per minute via electronic scanning without hand sorting or counting. Please click here for more information on InvoTech’s RFID asset management solution.
The advent of new, durable UHF-RFID tags that withstand the rigorous laundry process coupled with greater affordability of those tags makes UHF-RFID asset tracking possible. It is a financially attractive alternative to older methods that use barcodes and HF-RFID.
“InvoTech’s new UHF-RFID tracking system scans, inventories, and generates reports for entire carts of linens or uniforms at one time because the technology has a much greater reading distance than legacy systems,” explained Jeff Welles, InvoTech Vice President.
“This creates a huge efficiency boost for the labor-intensive job of hand counting or hand scanning individual uniforms and linens.” The asset tracking with RFID system also protects a company’s investment in linens and uniforms. It maintains a real-time record of where each piece is located, whether in storage, the laundry, or in use.

Read More about Launch of GIMS UHF-RFID Linen & Uniform Tracking System @ Fibre2fashion

Jenny Yoo unveils bridesmaids dresses

Jenny Yoo, a creator and producer of bridal and bridesmaid fashion located in NYC, has launched her recent line of dresses. It is now available in stores across the country, featuring inspiring, diverse designs that have the potential to infuse new meaning into nuptial fashion for discerning contemporary brides and their wedding party. It can be purchased in Jenny Yoo boutiques and showrooms, as well as affiliated outlets, throughout the United States.

Yoo's newest release forms a diverse selection of bridal and bridesmaid dresses, as well as a range of stylish accessories that match her pieces. The spirit that permeates this dress line is that of an attempt to stay on top of current transformations in the area of wedding celebrations without losing the bond with tradition. The dresses in Jenny Yoo 2011 collection are generously designed, with quality textiles, exquisite craftsmanship and unique cut. Their tone is reserved and rather low-key. The designer's trademark characteristic, which is combining original style and simplicity, is visible throughout her 2011 collection of bridal and bridesmaids dresses.
“We design for the discriminating bride and bridesmaid who are looking for a dress that she can use not only for the bridal party, but again and again for any special occasion. Our goal is to give our client a beautiful quality dress that she can carry with her for years to come”, says Jenny Yoo. In her quest to redefine bridal and bridesmaid fashion, she strives to find a perfect balance between the traditional limitations of the nuptial dresses and the possibility of extending the life of these pieces beyond this single use.

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Olivia Brouwer launches debut line of wedding dresses

365 Days of Sewing is hosting a special preview of a debut line of wedding dress, designed by newcomer, Olivia Brouwer of Tennessee. Brouwer began sewing dresses for her Barbie dolls when she was four-years-old. Now at the age of ten, she is excited to launch her first line of wedding dresses.

“I like sewing teddy bears and pillow and dresses, but now I am mainly working on wedding dresses,” said Brouwer.
Every day after school, Brouwer spends nearly every waking minute sewing, until bedtime that is. At bedtime, she sits in her bed with her needles and thread when she is supposed to be sleeping. That is when she does some of her best work. Brouwer is the daughter of Cindy Morgan Brouwer, an 11-time Dove Award nominated singer / songwriter.
“I remember when she was four. She asked me if she could make this sock into a dress for her doll. She came back a few minutes later with a perfectly fitted dress on her tiny doll,” said Cindy Brouwer.

Read More about Olivia Brouwer launches debut line of wedding dresses @ Fibre2fashion