Fashion News

/C O R R E C T I O N -- Socrates/

2005-09-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

/C O R R E C T I O N -- Socrates/

Editors are advised that the news release, Greek Thought Leader Shares Post-Labor Day Wisdom on the Anatomy of a 'DIY'er, should be replaced with the version below, rather than the release incorrectly transmitted by PR Newswire.

National Survey by 'Greek Thought Leader' Shows DIY Moving Out of Hardware Aisles and Into Workplace

CHICAGO, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Self-reliance is moving away from hardware stores and into people's professional routines, according to a national sampling survey from Socrates ( http://www.socrates.com/ ).

The Chicago-based company recently polled more than 1,000 Americans on activities they would do without outside professional help. The survey confirmed that the DIY lifestyle trend extends beyond pipes and drains; it's impacting businesses owners, operations and media usage.

Socrates is the leading brand of needed know-how solutions for individuals and small businesses. The company's content helps consumers solve everyday legal, finance and business management matters themselves.

"This survey shows how far self-reliance has come," said Socrates Consumer Marketing Director Michael Kahn. "Technology has changed how we view resources and do things on our own."

The Rise of DIY & the "Reality TV Effect"

Consumers are taking control of everything-from the way they shop and manage real estate to operating a business. The DIY lifestyle is indicative of how people use outside resources. Consider the following:

-- In terms of shopping habits, 93.5% of respondents preferred searching
online to learn more about products and services they plan to purchase
-- higher than asking a friend or family member or reading material
from articles and catalogs.
-- When searching the Internet for information on products and services
they plan to purchase, 94% use a general search engine versus the
specific Web site. One conclusion is that consumers want to do their
own research to ensure all views are presented. They might not trust
information directly from the product's site.

While Americans are more willing to fix a plumbing problem (54.6%) than climb a mountain (15.8%), more than half of all survey respondents (54.9%) would start a business on their own. 57.7% of those surveyed said they would lease or rent property, and 49.3% said they would complete a contract negotiation without professional help.

"The fast-paced transfer of knowledge allows more people to see what options are available in the business world - options beyond the norm," Kahn said. "Reality and informational shows on mainstream and cable channels, alike, have given Americans the needed lift to attain their dreams. This newfound knowledge is helping to boost consumer confidence in DIY projects, concurrently supporting the growth of small businesses."

Kahn cited that cable television is the preferred news media outlet for 25.5% of the survey's respondents, while DIY-supporting retailers such as Wal- Mart, Office Depot, Lowe's, Staples, and Home Depot topped the list of stores most often visited in the past six months.

"Everyday people now have motivation to leave their prior existence behind in order to start a new life with personal gratification and meaning," Kahn said. "Business products and services need to be conscience of this societal trend to ensure their products are meeting new needs."

The Anatomy of a Small Business Owner

Being your own boss allows the business freedom that we all crave, but what are small business owners really doing during the day? Socrates' small business time clock details a day in the life of the typical small business owner. Among those duties:

-- Information gathering. 28.4% of small business owners listen to the
radio 4-8 hours a day. This could also be interpreted as multi-tasking
-- absorbing information while working.
-- Net surfing. Most entrepreneurs are Internet-savvy, but may not be
using lightning fast connections for better work productivity (72.7 %
were connected to the internet through Broadband and spent 4-8 hours
surfing the net for unrelated work research).
-- Keeping the ship afloat. Many small business owners do it all --
payroll, accounting, managing employees, collecting debts, AND holding
responsibility for the company's products or services. Socrates
suggests small business owners learn about the DIY legal options
available for small businesses either through its array of products or
through other sources.
-- Seeking a key shipmate. When asked what one source of information or
entertainment they would have if marooned on a deserted island, more
than half of small business owners said their computer with a wireless
Internet connection. Only one said "wife."

"Society is redefining the role of consultants and the self-employed; they're not just sitting behind the desk," said Kahn. Many small business owners chart their own course with a desire to seek life change. Each new business expedition encounters stress and anxiety, but those squalls can be diverted with concise planning and support materials."

He concluded, "Small business owners should focus more on performance, not process. Socrates materials are designed with the independent philosophy in mind. They can assist in charting a more streamlined course toward business success."

Source: Socrates

CONTACT: Michael Shmarak for Socrates, +1-312-587-7677

Web site: http://www.socrates.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: Kahn available for interviews; full results of the survey available.

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Profile: Fashion

Fashion Week Event: Daily's Fruit Mixers 'Life is a Mix' Event at Bryant Park Grill

2005-09-13T06:54:00.000-07:00

Fashion Week Event: Daily's Fruit Mixers 'Life is a Mix' Event at Bryant Park Grill

WHAT: Daily's Fruit Mixers, America's premium brand of cocktail mixes is
making a splash during Fashion Week with the first annual "Life is
a Mix" Event and Daily's Mix-Off -- an exclusive, invitation-only
event. A limited number of media seats are still available.

WHEN: Thursday, September 15, 2:00 pm

WHERE: Bryant Park Grill

WHO:

- Leon Hall, fashion icon and red carpet commentator, will host the
event. He notes, "A woman's drink is yet another accessory - a fashion
statement, as much as her shoes or her bag."

- Celebrity judges Katey Sagal, Paige Davis, Carol Saline and Gabrielle
Hamilton will select the winner of the Daily's Fruit Mixers Mix-Off.

- Six finalists - fabulous women selected by Daily's from all over the
country - will participate in the Mix-Off, blending, shaking or
stirring their signature cocktail creation using Daily's Fruit Mixers
for a unique taste experience.

- Dress for Success will receive a $5,000 contribution from Daily's.

WHY: Daily's is reintroducing its full line of premium cocktail mixers by
saluting the American woman whose "Life is a Mix" of roles,
responsibilities and interests, and who deserves nothing less than
the exciting refreshing real-fruit taste experience of a Daily's
cocktail when it's time to celebrate or relax.

Media Contact:
Lauren Trocano
(412) 995-9642
(412) 401-6875
ltrocano@blattnerbrunner.com

PRNewswire -- Sept. 13

Source: Daily's

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Profile: Fashion

W Magazine and GUESS? Present the 3rd Annual W Hollywood Yard Sale Hosted By Jane Kaczmarek and Bradley Whitford to Benefit Clothes Off Our Back

2005-09-13T06:52:00.000-07:00

W Magazine and GUESS? Present the 3rd Annual W Hollywood Yard Sale Hosted By Jane Kaczmarek and Bradley Whitford to Benefit Clothes Off Our Back

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- On September 17, 2005, W Magazine will be hosting the W Hollywood Yard Sale presented by GUESS. Clothes Off Our Back is the benefiting charity of what is Hollywood's version of the all- American yard sale. The event, which is open to the public from 12pm to 5pm will be hosted at a private mansion located at 251 North Bristol Avenue in Brentwood.

Guests will be able to meet celebrities, browse and shop all for charity. Celebrities "man" their own booths selling items from their personal and professional lives that are no longer needed -- just like a real yard sale! Everything from unused decorative accessories from the sets of their TV shows, clothes worn to red carpet events, and unwanted gift bag items will be sold at super-reduced prices. Celebrities such as Gail O'Grady, Lisa Rinna, Cheryl Hines, Nia Vardalos, Alana & Sean Stewart, Lisa Edlestein, Andrea Bowen, Kate Linder, Brenda Strong of "Desperate Housewives" and more will be on hand to sell merchandise from their own closets as well as select wares from such adored brands and names as Lisa Kline, Converse, Diane von Furstenberg, Belle Gray, Industry, Joie, dwell, C&C California, LeSportsac, Eberjey and more! Such sought after beauty companies such as Warren-Tricomi and Z. Bigatti will be pampering celebrities and guests with facial treatments, beauty applications and hair styling.

The event is a family-friendly event with a Kid's Corner where children can enjoy magicians, caricature drawings, balloon artists, and make-your-own tye-dye tee's etc. Guests will enjoy live musical performances by special celebrity DJ Rosanna Arquette and Big Dume.

All money raised from the W Magazine Hollywood Yard Sale presented by GUESS? will be donated to Clothes Off Our Back. Founded by Jane Kaczmarek and Bradley Whitford, the Clothes Off Our Back Foundation works with celebrities, designers and high profile individuals to share their good fortune and donate clothing and accessories for auction to benefit children's charities. The items are put up for bid to the public -- all in the name of charity. Over 175 celebrities have participated in Clothes Off Our Back auctions since its inception in 2002, helping raise nearly $500,000 for various children's charities. Additional information can be found at www.clothesoffourback.org.

Also, on September 18th through September 28th an online auction of autographed t-shirts by such celebrities as Jamie Lynn Discala, Kimberly Stewart, Jillian Barberie, Alan Cumming, DJ AM, the cast of ER, Jane Kaz, Wesley Jonathan and more will be up for people to purchase on the Clothes Off Our Back website!

Complete list of Celebrities & Vendors putting their used items to a good cause include:

2xist -- Alana and Sean Stewart for the Stewart Family Booth -- Alex Woo - - Amy McCarthy -- Andrea Bowen -- Ashley Tisdale & Brenda Song -- Baskin- Robbins -- Belle Gray by Lisa Rinna -- Borba -- Brenda Strong -- C&C California -- Cheryl Hines -- Christina Moore -- Converse -- Dee's Grooming -- Diane Von Furstenberg -- Drifter -- dwell/dwell baby -- e.l.f. -- Eberjey -- Essie -- eXtra TV Trivia Booth -- Faire Frou Frou -- Felissimo -- Fifi & Romeo -- FILA -- Gbenga Akinnagbe -- GUESS? -- Guinot -- Inconceivable -- Jaqua -- Joie -- Kate Linder -- LaLicious -- Lauralee Bell and Shauna Stein for ON SUNSET -- LeSportsac -- Lisa Edelstein -- Lisa Klein -- Malcolm in the Middle -- Michele Marcombe -- Monica's on Broxton -- NBC Daytime -- Perrier -- Phillips Union Whiskey -- PowerHouse Books -- Purp7e -- Samantha Thavasa New York -- Scanty -- Seychelles Footwear -- Shanna Moakler -- Sheetal Sheth -- Skulls & Cross Bones -- Sprint Nextel Corporation -- Star 98.7 FM -- Taraji Henson -- The Dresser -- The Walt Disney Co. -- The West Wing -- Thomas "Thunder" Keller -- Tres LA -- Warren-Tricomi Salon -- Z. Bigatti -- And More!

Source: W Magazine

CONTACT: THINK PR, +1-212-343-3920

Web site: http://www.clothesoffourback.org/

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Profile: Fashion

Esprit Reports 67% Net Profit Growth

2005-09-13T06:32:00.000-07:00

Esprit Reports 67% Net Profit Growth

Record High Turnover, Margins and ROE

-- Group turnover increased 26% to over HK$20 billion
-- Earnings per share rose 66% to HK$2.79
-- Net profit margin expanded to 16.2%
-- Return on Shareholders' Equity over 53%
-- Proposed total dividend: HK$1.8 billion
final: HK$0.66/share, special: HK$0.84/share

HONG KONG, Sept. 13 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Esprit Holdings Limited today announced final results for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2005.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Michael Ying, Chairman of the Board, said, "FY2004/2005 results demonstrated that we are on our way in making Esprit the leading lifestyle brand name in the world. We continued fostering business growth while delivering solid results and setting new records,"

Mr. Ying continued, "Armed with a net cash inflow from operating activities of over HK$2.7 billion and a debt-free balance sheet, the Board proposes to distribute approximately HK$1.8 billion in total dividends to our shareholders,"

Mr. Heinz Krogner, Deputy Chairman and Group CEO commented, "While our core markets remain in Germany and Benelux, strong growth is seen in France, Scandinavia and Austria. Furthermore, we have established a firm footing in new markets such as Spain, Italy and the Middle East. We have also reached a major milestone where the right strategic platform and a scalable business model are in place,"

Mr. John Poon, Deputy Chairman and Group CFO, stated, "Global sales grew 26% and exceeded HK$20 billion, net profits rose 67% to HK$3.3 billion and to top it all, we have attained record breaking margins. The Group's operating margin (EBIT margin) rose 2.8% points to over 20% and net profit margin expanded 4% points to over 16%,"

Mr. Krogner added, "In the new financial year, we will continue with our strategic international expansion while maintaining a reasonable return. In addition to 1,400 wholesale points-of-sales planned, the Group has committed around HK$900 million to open over 110 new directly managed retail stores and renovate existing outlets worldwide,"

"Though the achievements in FY2004/2005 were remarkable," said Mr. Ying, "we will continue to strengthen our operations in anticipation of future challenges and pursue new initiatives to fuel sustainable growth in the long run," concluded Mr. Ying.

ESPRIT HOLDINGS LIMITED
AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
(in HK$ millions, except per share data)

Year Ended June 30 Year-on-year
2005 2004 growth
Turnover 20,632 16,357 26.1%
Operating Profit
(EBIT) 4,202 2,872 46.3%
Profit attributable
to Shareholders 3,338 2,003 66.6%

Operating Margin 20.4% 17.6% 2.8% pts
Net Margin 16.2% 12.2% 4.0% pts

Basic EPS HK$2.79 HK$1.68 66.0%

Final Dividend HK$0.66 HK$0.48 37.5%
Special Dividend HK$0.84 HK$0.50 68.0%

Return on Equity
(ROE) 53.6% 41.7% 11.9% pts
Shareholders' Funds 7,039 5,415 30.0%

Esprit Holdings Limited ( www.espritholdings.com ) is a constituent stock of the Hang Seng Index, MSCI Hong Kong Index, FTSE All-World Index for Hong Kong, S&P/HKEx LargeCap Index and S&P Asia 50 Index. Its subsidiaries are engaged in the retail and wholesale distribution of quality lifestyle products designed under its globally recognized ESPRIT brand and of cosmetic and body care products under its RED EARTH brand. The Group operates approximately 630 directly managed retail stores worldwide and distribute through over 9,700 wholesale points-of-sales internationally, occupying over 630,000 square meters of retail space in more than 40 countries.

For further details or enquiry, please contact Karen Koo

Tel: +852-2765-4360
Fax: +852-2362-5576
Email: karen.koo@esprit.com

The information contained herein is not for publication or distribution in the United States. These materials do not contain or constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United Sales or to any "U.S. Person" as defined in Regulation S under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act"). The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be registered under the Act, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under such Act or an available exemption from it.

Source: Esprit Holdings Limited

CONTACT: Karen Koo, +852-2765-4360, or karen.koo@esprit.com

Web site: http://www.espritholdings.com/

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Profile: Fashion

J.Crew Reports Strong Operating Income Improvement In Second Quarter

2005-09-13T04:38:00.000-07:00

J.Crew Reports Strong Operating Income Improvement In Second Quarter

NEW YORK, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- J.Crew Group, Inc. announced today that its operating income for the thirteen weeks ended July 30, 2005 increased by 150% to $20 million, compared to $8 million in the comparable period last year. This increase was driven primarily by a 22% increase in revenues and higher gross margins.

Millard Drexler, Chairman and CEO, said, "We are pleased with our customer's response to our continuing focus on quality, styling, and craftsmanship combined with our customer service initiatives."

Consolidated revenues for the thirteen weeks ended July 30, 2005 increased 22% to $229 million from $188 million last year. Store sales (Retail and Factory stores) increased by 17% to $163 million, compared to $139 million last year. Comparable store sales increased by 15%. Direct sales (Internet and Catalog) increased by 35% to $58 million, as compared to $43 million last year.

Gross margin increased to 42% of revenues in the second quarter, compared to 39% last year. The increase was primarily attributable to lower markdowns in all sales channels.

Selling, general and administrative expenses during the quarter were $77 million, or 34% of revenues vs. $66 million or 35% in the prior year period.

Net income for the second quarter increased by $16 million to $2 million, compared to a net loss of $14 million in the prior year. This increase resulted from the $12 million increase in operating income and a $4 million decrease in interest expense as a result of debt refinancing in the fourth quarter of 2004.

Consolidated revenues for the twenty-six weeks ended July 30, 2005 were $440 million compared to $334 million last year, an increase of 32%. Store sales increased by 27% to $308 million from $243 million, as comparable store sales increased by 24%. Direct sales increased by 48% to $118 million from $80 million last year. Direct sales in the first half of 2004 were adversely impacted by reduced inventory levels.

Gross margin for the twenty-six weeks ended July 30, 2005 increased to 44% of revenues compared to 40% last year, resulting from a decrease in buying and occupancy costs as a percentage of revenues and lower markdowns across all channels.

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the twenty-six weeks ended July 30, 2005 increased to $150 million, or 34% of revenues, from $130 million, or 39% last year.

Operating income for the twenty-six week period was $43 million compared to $5 million last year, an improvement of $38 million. Net income for the first half of 2005 was $7 million, compared to a loss of $38 million last year.

Inventory at July 30, 2005 was $111 million, an increase of 18% over the prior year,. There were no outstanding borrowings under the Company's working capital facility during the first half of 2004 or 2005.

Recent Development

On August 17, 2005, the Company filed a Registration Statement on Form S-1 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission relating to the proposed initial public offering of its common stock.

Second Quarter Conference Call

The Company will not hold a conference call regarding second quarter results.

J.Crew Group, Inc. is a nationally recognized multi-channel retailer of quality women's and men's apparel, shoes and accessories. The Company operates 156 retail stores, the J.Crew catalog business, j.crew.com and 44 factory outlet stores.

Certain statements herein are "forward-looking statements" made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current expectations or beliefs concerning future events and actual results of operations may differ materially from historical results or current expectations. Any such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including the strength of the economy, changes in the overall level of consumer spending or preferences in apparel, the performance of the Company's products within the prevailing retail environment, trade restrictions, political or financial instability in countries where the Company's goods are manufactured, postal rate increases, paper and printing costs, availability of suitable store locations at appropriate terms and other factors which are set forth in the Company's Form 10-K and in all filings with the SEC made by the Company subsequent to the filing of the Form 10-K. The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

J.Crew Group, Inc.
Summary of Operations

Thirteen weeks ended Twenty-six weeks ended
7/31/04 7/30/05 7/31/04 7/30/05
(Unaudited)
($ in millions)
Revenues $188 $229 $334 $440

Cost of sales,
including buying and
occupancy costs 114 132 199 247

Gross profit 74 97 135 193

Selling, general and
administrative expenses 66 77 130 150

Operating income 8 20 5 43

Interest expense 22 18 43 35

Income (loss) before
income taxes (14) 2 (38) 8

Income taxes - - - 1

Net income (loss) $(14) $2 $(38) $7

Summary of Revenues

Stores (Retail and
Factory) $139 $163 $243 $ 308
Direct (Internet and
Catalog) 43 58 80 118
Other 6 8 11 14

Total $188 $229 $334 $440

Comp store sales 12% 15% 9% 24%

Number of stores:
Retail 155 156
Factory 42 43

J.Crew Group, Inc.
Summary Balance Sheet Data
At
7/31/04 7/30/05
(Unaudited)
($ in millions)
Assets
Cash $35 $30

Inventories 94 111

Property and equipment, net 127 113

Other 37 45

Total $293 $299

Liabilities and stockholders' deficit
Current liabilities $102 $126

Deferred credits 54 57

Long-term debt (includes current portion) (a) 556 603

Preferred stock 93 93

Stockholders' deficit (512) (580)

Total $293 $299

Twenty-six weeks ended
7/31/04 7/30/05
(Unaudited)
($ in millions)

Other Data

EBITDA (b) $23 $59
Cash interest paid (10) (15)
Changes in assets and liabilities (21) (31)
Cash provided by (used in) operations (8) 13

Cash provided by (used in) financing activities (1) 1

Capital expenditures (6) (8)

(Decrease) increase in cash $(15) $6

(a) Redeemable preferred stock of $234 million and $284 million is
included in long-term debt as of July 31, 2004 and July 30, 2005,
respectively.

(b) Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization
(EBITDA) should not be considered as an alternative to any measure of
operating results as promulgated under generally accepted accounting
principles, including operating income and net income. The Company
uses EBITDA as a supplemental measure of cash flow. Management and
investors often use EBITDA as a measure of a company's ability to
service its debt. Other companies may calculate EBITDA differently
and therefore, our calculations are not necessarily comparable with
similarly titled figures for other companies.

Source: J.Crew Group, Inc.

CONTACT: James Scully, Chief Financial Officer of J.Crew Group, Inc.,
+1-212-209-8040; or Owen Blicksilver of Owen Blicksilver PR, +1-516-742-5950

Web site: http://www.jcrew.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Barneys New York Announces Promotion of Julie Gilhart

2005-09-13T04:06:00.000-07:00

Barneys New York Announces Promotion of Julie Gilhart

NEW YORK, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Barneys New York ("Barneys"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Jones Apparel Group, Inc. (NYSE:JNY), announced today that Julie Gilhart has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Fashion Director/Women's. Ms. Gilhart, who has been with Barneys since 1992, previously held the title of Vice President, Fashion Merchandising/Women's.

"Julie is a very big part of what makes the fashion mix at Barneys so unique," stated Chairman Howard Socol. She continues to report to Judy Collinson, Executive Vice President, GMM/Women's.

Jones Apparel Group, Inc. (http://www.jny.com/), a Fortune 500 company, is a leading designer, marketer and wholesaler of branded apparel, footwear and accessories. We also market directly to consumers through our chain of specialty retail and value-based stores, and operate the Barneys New York chain of luxury stores. Our nationally recognized brands include Jones New York, Evan-Picone, Norton McNaughton, Gloria Vanderbilt, Erika, l.e.i., Energie, Nine West, Easy Spirit, Enzo Angiolini, Bandolino, Joan & David, Mootsies Tootsies, Sam & Libby, Napier, Judith Jack, Kasper, Anne Klein, Albert Nipon, Le Suit and Barneys New York. The Company also markets apparel under the Polo Jeans Company brand licensed from Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation, costume jewelry under the Tommy Hilfiger brand licensed from Tommy Hilfiger Licensing, Inc. and the Givenchy brand licensed from Givenchy Corporation and footwear under the Dockers Women brand licensed from Levi Strauss & Co. Each brand is differentiated by its own distinctive styling, pricing strategy, distribution channel and target consumer. We primarily contract for the manufacture of our products through a worldwide network of quality manufacturers. We have capitalized on our nationally known brand names by entering into various licenses for several of our trademarks, including Jones New York, Evan-Picone, Anne Klein New York, Nine West, Gloria Vanderbilt and l.e.i., with select manufacturers of women's and men's products which we do not manufacture. For more than 30 years, we have built a reputation for excellence in product quality and value, and in operational execution.

Certain statements contained herein are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements regarding the Company's expected financial position, business and financing plans are forward-looking statements. The words "believes," "expects," "plans," "intends," "anticipates" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements also include representations of the Company's expectations or beliefs concerning future events that involve risks and uncertainties, including:

-- those associated with the effect of national and regional economic
conditions;
-- lowered levels of consumer spending resulting from a general economic
downturn or lower levels of consumer confidence or generally reduced
shopping activity caused by public safety concerns;
-- the performance of the Company's products within the prevailing retail
environment;
-- customer acceptance of both new designs and newly-introduced product
lines;
-- the Company's reliance on a few department store groups for large
portions of the Company's business;
-- consolidation of the Company's retail customers;
-- financial difficulties encountered by customers;
-- the effects of vigorous competition in the markets in which the
Company operates;
-- the Company's ability to identify acquisition candidates and acquire
such businesses on reasonable financial and other terms, in an
increasingly competitive environment for such acquisitions;
-- the integration of the organizations and operations of any acquired
businesses into the Company's existing organization and operations;
-- the Company's reliance on independent foreign manufacturers;
-- changes in the costs of raw materials, labor and advertising;
-- the general inability to obtain higher wholesale prices for the
Company's products that the Company has experienced for many years;
-- the uncertainties of sourcing associated with the new environment in
which quota has been eliminated on apparel products while political
pressure is building for the re-imposition of quotas in certain
categories; and
-- the Company's ability to secure and protect trademarks and other
intellectual property rights.

A further description of these risks and uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations can be found in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10- K/A for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, including, but not limited to, the Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Disclosure and the information concerning trends and risk factors included in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations therein, and in the Company's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such expectations may prove to be incorrect. The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Source: Jones Apparel Group, Inc.

CONTACT: Investor Relations: Jones Apparel Group: Wesley R. Card, Chief
Operating and Financial Officer, or Anita Britt, Executive Vice President
Finance, +1-215-785-4000, or Public Relations: Barneys New York: Dawn Brown,
Vice President Publicity, +1-212-450-8699

Web site: http://www.jny.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Victoria's Secret Wishes Luck to Emmy Nominees

2005-09-13T03:17:00.000-07:00

Victoria's Secret Wishes Luck to Emmy Nominees

VS's Exclusive Emmy Nominee Gift is Inspired by America's #1 Prestige Fragrance, Dream Angels Heavenly

NEW YORK, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Victoria's Secret is wishing good luck to female best-actress nominees as they prepare for the big awards ceremony. The lingerie and beauty company is sending a special delivery to best actress nominees (comedy and drama categories) that includes an exclusive Diamond Angel Wing Pendant, designed by international jeweler Mouawad and valued at $1,000. The angel wing is unavailable to the public and is worn by another exclusive group -- the world-famous Victoria's Secret supermodels each have one.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050913/NYTU078 )

Also included in the gift is a deluxe bottle of Dream Angels Heavenly fragrance, America's favorite prestige fragrance. It was recently revealed that Victoria's Secret's best-selling fragrance, Dream Angels Heavenly, out-performed all other prestige fragrances in the marketplace for the first half of the year. And while the public is hot for Heavenly, the nominees never have to worry about Victoria's Secret running out of stock. They will receive a Dream Angels VIP card, featuring a secret "Heavenly Hotline" phone number, so the Emmy nominees can order additional fragrance for themselves or to give as gifts whenever they like.

Victoria's Secret is a business of Limited Brands (NYSE:LTD) with modern, fashion-inspired collections, prestige beauty collections, celebrated supermodels and world-famous runway shows. Over 1000 Victoria's Secret Lingerie and Beauty Stores, the Victoria's Secret Catalogue and VictoriasSecret.com allow customers to shop the brand anywhere, any time, from any place.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050913/NYTU078
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN5
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Victoria's Secret

CONTACT: Christina Carathanassis of Victoria's Secret Beauty,
+1-212-424-0680, ccarathanassis@victoria.com; or Hilla Narov of Full Picture,
+1-212-367-8078, hnarov@fullpic.com

Web site: http://www.victoriassecret.com/

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Profile: Fashion

PeoplePC Online Partners With the 'Coupon Mom' to Launch www.saveamillion.net

2005-09-13T02:23:00.001-07:00

PeoplePC Online Partners With the 'Coupon Mom' to Launch www.saveamillion.net

Campaign Offers Tips to Help Individuals and Families Save More Than $1.5 Million Over 25 Years

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, saving is a challenge for many Americans -- especially with soaring prices at the gas pump and in the grocery market check-out line. To help consumers get more value from their hard earned dollars, PeoplePC, a leading provider of high-quality, value- priced Internet service and subsidiary of EarthLink (NASDAQ:ELNK), has launched the "Save a Million" campaign (www.saveamillion.net).

Partnering with "Coupon Mom" Stephanie Nelson, national consumer expert and mother of two, PeoplePC created www.saveamillion.net to offer tips and resources that can help families grow their nest eggs to approximately $1.5 million over the next 25 years. In addition to practical ways to uncover great values on Internet access, gas, groceries and entertainment, the Web site includes helpful resources for earning interest on savings, paying down mortgages and managing family finances.

"Everyone wants to save a million dollars, but not every one knows how," said Nelson, "As PeoplePC's value expert, I am helping consumers cut costs and make the most of their hard earned dollars. By sticking to a plan and following the budgeting and money management advice offered at www.saveamillion.net, anyone can become a millionaire."

"A commitment to helping consumers get an outstanding value for a reasonable price has made PeoplePC the nation's fastest growing ISP with more than one million members. The same commitment drove us to launch the 'Save a Million' campaign," said Hilary Jensen, PeoplePC's vice president of product marketing. "With the "Coupon Mom's" advice, Americans can boost their bank accounts not only by saving on Internet access, but saving in virtually every aspect of their lives."

Top Ways to Save Your Way to $1.5 Million:

The "Coupon Mom" offers eleven easy steps consumers can take to save their ways to $1.5 million dollars (based on 2005 prices). For example:

1. Focus on your fixed expenses. Keep a regular check of your basic
household expenses, such as phone and Internet access, to make sure
you're taking advantage of the most competitive rates available. Bag
a bargain with a value ISP such as PeoplePC (www.peoplepc.com)
that offers affordable Internet access for $10.95 per month and
includes e-mail virus protection, spam controls, and pop up blocker.
Savings potential if invested: $11,467 over 25 years.
2. Eat smart. Spend less. After housing and auto costs, food costs are
typically the third highest expense in a household budget. So, plan a
week's meals around your grocer's weekly sales and coupons, check out
www.couponmom.com frequently and only buy items on your
shopping list. Use coupons and discounted restaurant gift
certificates when eating out. Save an average of $112 per month.
$97,660 over 25 years.
3. Pack some fruit. Save your loot. If you're in the habit of buying
lunch on the run or picking up a daily latte at the coffee shop, you
could save time, money and calories by drinking your daily dose of
caffeine at home and packing lunch to bring with you. This simple
change could save $5 to $10 per day. $95,110 over 25 years.

For the "Coupon Mom's" full list of tips that add up to $1.5 million, insider ways to save and an opportunity to submit questions, visit www.saveamillion.net.

About PeoplePC

PeoplePC, an EarthLink company (NASDAQ:ELNK), is a leading provider of high-quality, value-priced Internet service through its PeoplePC Online brand. PeoplePC is committed to making it easy and affordable for consumers to get online. The PeoplePC platform ensures quality connections and fewer busy signals though the use of proprietary Smart Dialer technology. Visit us at www.peoplepc.com.

About Stephanie Nelson, Coupon Mom and Value Expert For PeoplePC

Stephanie Nelson, The Coupon Mom(TM), and value expert for PeoplePC, specializes in helping consumers become savvier about finding every day bargains and value. As the Coupon Mom, www.couponmom.com/, Stephanie is a regular contributor on ABC News' Good Morning America, providing advice on how to save by being smart with coupons on everything from groceries, gasoline and theme. Stephanie's Virtual Coupon Organizer, a coupon-organizing tool, has helped thousands of families get better deals. Stephanie holds a degree in finance and has ten years of experience as a sales executive with Procter & Gamble and Marriott Hotels. Founder of the "Cut Out Hunger" program, Stephanie also advises consumers on how to help buy groceries with coupons to help fill community food banks and soup kitchens. In her first book, Greatest Secrets of the Coupon Mom, Stephanie shares her trademark saving techniques and offers inspirational stories from families who have followed her advice and given to charities.

Source: PeoplePC

CONTACT: Deisha Galberth of PeoplePC, +1-404-748-7146, or
Galberth@corp.earthlink.net

Web site: http://www.saveamillion.net/
http://www.peoplepc.com/
http://www.couponmom.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Alternative to Controversial School Drug Testing Programs Gives Parents Responsibility Through TestMyTeen.com

2005-09-13T02:23:00.000-07:00

Alternative to Controversial School Drug Testing Programs Gives Parents Responsibility Through TestMyTeen.com

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- An alternative to controversial school drug testing programs gives the responsibility of protecting teens and their privacy back to parents. The TestMyTeen.com approach provides home-testing kits to parents and funding to schools.

When parents purchase kits online, they create a socially acceptable way for kids to deflect the peer pressure that comes after saying no to drugs, alcohol, or tobacco. Parents may also direct a portion of revenues to their child's school. See http://www.testmyteen.com/ .

According to Mason Duchatschek, the Executive Director of TestMyTeen.com, the words "my parents test me" stop pushy peers in their tracks. He also says that parents can enjoy relief knowing they can prevent or detect usage prior to addictions setting in and law enforcement officers, school officials, or potential employers finding out.

"In the past, programs dictated by schools aimed only at students in extracurricular activities, depleted scarce resources, and turned parents into adversaries instead of allies over privacy," says Duchatschek. He adds, "It took input from students, teachers, and parents to eliminate those obstacles and suggest necessary improvements."

To ensure accuracy, home-based testing kits utilize the same technologies found in medical labs and clinics. Because kits are administered by parents in the privacy of their home, ordered via the Internet, and shipped using non-descript packaging, confidentiality is protected.

A "Monitoring the Future Study" conducted by the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) has revealed that while 53% of high school seniors admitted to some drug use, only 18% of parents believed their teen had tried drugs. Consequently, while parents are encouraged to trust their kids, Duchatschek says they need to verify their trust is warranted.

Additional resources for parents and school officials regarding this program are available at http://www.testmyteen.com/ . Revenue sharing programs are offered to schools that register, free of charge, with the TestMyTeen.com alliance.

Contact: Mason Duchatschek, TestMyTeen.com, 1-314-414-5500, mason@testmyteen.com

Source: TestMyTeen.com

CONTACT: Mason Duchatschek of TestMyTeen.com, +1-314-414-5500,
mason@testmyteen.com

Web site: http://www.testmyteen.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: Duchatschek available for interview

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Profile: Fashion

Greek Thought Leader Shares Post-Labor Day Wisdom on the Anatomy of a 'DIY'er

2005-09-13T02:22:00.000-07:00

Greek Thought Leader Shares Post-Labor Day Wisdom on the Anatomy of a 'DIY'er

CHICAGO, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- While most people spent Labor Day weekend getting some R&R, many Americans determined if working for oneself will pave the way to greener pastures. To be sure, self-starting professionals are changing how they perform business operations -- as well as their daily lives.

While Americans are more willing to fix a plumbing problem (54.6%) than climb a mountain (15.8%), they are also just as likely to start their own business. So says Chicago-based Socrates ( http://www.socrates.com/ ), a national DIY legal solutions provider who recently polled more than 1,000 Americans on issues relating to activities completed without outside professional help.

The do-it-yourself (DIY) mentality is moving away from hardware stores and into people's daily routines, according to Socrates' research. Answers revealed in the survey confirmed this DIY trend extends beyond pipes and drains; it is impacting businesses owners, operations and media usage.

The Rise of DIY Lifestyle & the "Reality TV Effect"

Consumers are taking control of everything -- from the way they shop and manage real estate to operating a business. The DIY lifestyle is indicative of how people use outside resources. Consider the following:

-- 54.9% of survey respondents would start a business on their own.
-- 57.7% of those surveyed said they would lease or rent property and
49.3% said they would complete a contract negotiation without the help
of a professional.
-- In terms of shopping habits, 93.5% of respondents preferred searching
online to learn more about products and services they plan to purchase
-- higher than asking a friend or family member or reading material
from articles and catalogs.
-- When searching the Internet for information on products and services
they plan to purchase, 94% use a general search engine versus the
specific Web site. One conclusion is that consumers want to do their
own research to ensure all views are presented. They might not trust
information directly from the product's site.

"Technology has changed how we view resources and do things on our own. This survey shows how powerful self-reliance has become," said Socrates Consumer Marketing Director Michael Kahn. "The fast-paced transfer of knowledge is allowing more people to see what options are available in the business world -- options beyond the norm."

Reality and informational shows on mainstream and cable channels, alike, have given Americans the lift they needed to attain their dreams. This newfound knowledge is helping to boost consumer confidence in DIY projects, concurrently supporting the growth of small businesses.

-- Cable television is the preferred news media outlet for 25.5% of
respondents.
-- DIY-supporting retailers such as Wal-Mart, Office Depot, Lowe's,
Staples, and Home Depot topped the list of stores most often visited
in the past six months.

"Everyday people now have motivation to leave their prior existence behind in order to start a new life with personal gratification and meaning," Kahn said. "Business products and services need to be conscious of this societal trend to ensure their products are meeting new needs."

The Anatomy of a Small Business Owner

Being your own boss allows the business freedom that we all crave, but what are small business owners really doing during the day? Socrates' "small business time clock" details a day in the life of the typical small business owner. Such duties include:

-- Information gathering. 28.4% of small business owners listen to the
radio 4-8 hours a day. This could also be interpreted as
multi-tasking -- absorbing information while working.
-- Net surfing. Most entrepreneurs are Internet-savvy, but may not be
using lightning fast connections for better work productivity
(72.7% were connected to the internet through Broadband and spent
4-8 hours surfing the net for unrelated work research).
-- Keeping the ship afloat. Many small business owners do it all --
payroll, accounting, managing employees, collecting debts, AND holding
responsibility for the company's products or services. Socrates
suggests small business owners learn about the DIY legal options
available for small businesses either through its array of products or
through other sources.
-- Seeking a key shipmate. When asked what one source of information or
entertainment they would have if marooned on a deserted island, more
than half of small business owners said their computer with a wireless
internet connection. Only one said "wife."

Society is redefining the role of consultants and the self-employed -- they're not just sitting behind the desk. Many small business owners chart their own course with a desire to seek life change -- pace, pay, goals, etc. Each new business expedition encounters stress and anxiety, but those squalls can be diverted with concise planning and support materials.

"We believe small business owners should focus more on performance, not process. Socrates materials are designed with the independent philosophy in mind," said Kahn. "They can assist in charting a more streamlined course toward business success."

Socrates is the leading brand of needed know-how solutions for individuals and small businesses. The Socrates brand offers thousands of relevant, compliant, comprehensive and lower cost do-it-yourself alternatives to high-cost legal and professional services. These forms, kits, software, guides, books, downloadables and completion services help consumers solve everyday legal, finance and business management matters themselves. Socrates offers its products through retailers, marketing partners and direct online through http://www.socrates.com/ .

Source: Socrates

CONTACT: Amy Francis or Michael Shmarak, for Socrates, +1-312-587-7677

Web site: http://www.socrates.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: Full results of the survey are available upon request.

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Profile: Fashion

Fall Activities Abound in Georgetown County, South Carolina

2005-09-13T02:13:00.000-07:00

Fall Activities Abound in Georgetown County, South Carolina

Events Feature Musical Tributes, Art Exhibits, a Wooden Boat Show and more

GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Energizing concerts, gallery tours, antique shopping, live theater, succulent dining, unique crafts, wine tasting and an estimated 100 classic boats on display along the downtown boardwalk. Nestled along South Carolina's pristine coastline, Georgetown County has something for everyone this fall with the Pawleys Island Festival of Music and Art, the Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival, the 16th Annual Wooden Boat Show and much more.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050517/NYFNSL09 )

The 2005 Pawleys Island Festival of Music and Art, which begins Sept. 30 and ends Oct. 23, features 12 musical and art events, including a concert with three-time Grammy Award winning jazz saxophonist Branford Marsalis, the Pawleys Island Wine Festival, children's theater production of Pinocchio and a 1940s-style music and dance revue. All events are held at Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark. Tickets are available online, or through the Festival office at 843-237-4774. For detailed event information, visit www.pawleysmusic.com.

The Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival takes place each September at the site of the historic "Atalaya" castle at Huntington Beach State Park in Litchfield. This year, the event will be held September 22-25. Hundreds of juried artists and their works of art ranging from pastels, oils, glass, woodworking, sculpture, and more will be displayed for the public to view. Food, beverages and music are provided for visitors. For further information, please call 843-237-4440.

And finally, October 15 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. visitors can enjoy the 16th Annual Wooden Boat Show. Georgetown will celebrate its appreciation for wooden boats and its maritime heritage with demonstrations, entertainment, music, food and rowing relay races on the Sampit River. An estimated 100 classic wooden boats will be displayed in the water along the boardwalk and on Front Street. For more information, call 877-285-3888 or visit www.woodenboatshow.com.

Georgetown County, the oldest family resort area in the nation and one of the newest All-America communities, extends from Garden City Beach south to the Santee river at the Charleston County line and offers visitors an array of opportunities - from fishing and boating to historical tours, a variety of dining experiences, 15 public golf courses, quaint inns and upscale resort accommodations, and more. For more information on Georgetown County, including an up-to-date listing of events, please visit our Web site at www.visitgeorgetowncountysc.com.

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050517/NYFNSL09
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Georgetown County Visitors Bureau

CONTACT: Kim Asbill for Georgetown County Visitors Bureau,
+1-803-808-0325, or asbillpr@sc.rr.com, or Grace Brock of Georgetown County
Visitors Bureau at +1-843-235-6595, or gcvb@sc.rr.com

Web site: http://www.cnsg.com/
http://www.pawleysmusic.com/
http://www.woodenboatshow.com/
http://www.visitgeorgetowncountysc.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Dominican Republic's Natural Environment Offers Adrenaline Rush

2005-09-13T02:12:00.001-07:00

Dominican Republic's Natural Environment Offers Adrenaline Rush

CABARETE, Dominican Republic, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Adventure seekers around the world will be more than satisfied with the abundance of thrilling, heart racing activities the Dominican Republic (DR) offers. With its nine diverse ecological zones, the DR features the highest and lowest sea level points in the Caribbean. Hence, the DR's natural playground ensures an adrenaline rush to last visitors the day, week or a lifetime.

For those with an itch to climb, Pico Duarte, located in the DR's central region, provides ideal hiking opportunities. Standing at 10,128 feet above sea level the peak is the highest point in the Caribbean and requires three days to reach by foot. A challenging adventure, Pico Duarte can be climbed through organized tours with an experienced guide.

In addition to climbing the Caribbean's highest peak, intrepid explorers can also enjoy canyoning, which incorporates hiking, swimming, rock climbing, jumping and repelling, and finishes off with a dip into refreshing mountain waters. This activity is most often performed within the Cordillera Central at the Jimenoa River, located in the DR's central region.

For visitors who can't get enough of the clear Caribbean waters, the city of Cabarete, located on the DR's north coast, is a prime location for an array of water sports. Due to its perfect combination of wind, water and waves, Cabarete is considered one of the world's top five destinations for kiteboarding and windsurfing.

While similar to surfing, kiteboarding takes the sport to a whole new level. Using a large kite to carefully balance on a board, this water sport has become so popular in the DR that Cabarete Beach is known as "Kite Beach." Rightfully so, Cabarete recently hosted the "Presidente Kiteboarding World Cup" for the fourth time.

Extreme sports enthusiasts will appreciate the unpredictable waters of the Rio Jimenoa, Rio Yaque del Norte and Rio Baiguate in the DR's central region. Here, whitewater rafting is at its best, with each river providing heart-pounding adventure at levels from novice to expert.

Ever hear of cascading? A unique and thrilling experience, participants climb to the top of a waterfall and "cascade" to the pool at the bottom. On the way down, multiple jumps are completed with at least one through a waterfall. A great spot for cascading in addition to a breathtaking view is the Salto de Jimenoa waterfall.

Additional activities to try include: caving, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, mountain biking, sandboarding and scuba diving, to name a few.

Source: Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism

CONTACT: Patty Tazalla, BVK PR, +1-414-247-2174, ptazalla@bvk.com , or
Laura Tanin, BVK PR, +1-414-351-9563, laurat@bvk.com

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Profile: Fashion

Afghanistan: Breathtaking, Way Off the Beaten Track and Open for Travel

2005-09-13T02:12:00.000-07:00

Afghanistan: Breathtaking, Way Off the Beaten Track and Open for Travel

Tourism Gains with Improving Stability

HONG KONG, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- "Though Afghanistan's south remains dangerous, in the north and west one can see breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. Among them: Kabul; Bamiyan; Balkh, terminus of the Silk Road where Alexander the Great married; and Herat, site of ancient architecture and the contemporary Literary Circle where women organized to study, defying the Taliban." So says Matthew Leeming, who has visited Afghanistan regularly since 1993, and who set up the first tour company for Afghanistan in 2002.

In hopes of introducing his beloved, wild land to more people, the adventurous Leeming teamed up with a fellow Oxfordian -- Bijan Omrani, who loves sitting in libraries -- to deliver the definitive guide to Afghanistan. Where Leeming's nomadic exploits give us practical information, Omrani's meticulous history -- along with 307 photographs -- tempts us to make the trip. In writing Afghanistan: A Companion and Guide, (Odyssey Publications, $29.95), available online and in bookstores, Omrani dug deep into source materials in French, German, English, Arabic, Greek, Latin and Farsi.

Having combed 3,500 years of Afghan history, Omrani summarizes, "Afghanistan is where many of the world's great empires -- the Persians, the Moghuls, the British and the Soviet Union -- were first violently challenged, in fact put onto the path of total defeat. Afghanistan must be self-governing. There is hope that this great wilderness may, through continued contact with civil society, be nurtured on its current path to stability and self-sufficiency."

In the foreword by Hamid Karzai, elected President of Afghanistan: "As peace returns with the establishment of democracy and the rule of law, visitors are beginning to re-discover the snow-capped mountains ... the rivers and glaciers ... the wondrous treasures of the Kabul Museum."

Of the tourist trade, Leeming says, "Though Afghanistan remains essentially untamed, it's becoming easier to get around. An octogenarian English couple and a group of retirement age trekkers from Hong Kong have just made separate voyages through the north. While logistics, the lodges and the chaikhanas (tea houses) are improving, the wildlife, the trekking and the people remain simply incredible."

Afghanistan: A Companion and Guide, $29.95, available at http://www.odysseypublications.com/ or through W.W. Norton Books http://www.wwnorton.com/ in U.S.

Source: China Productions

CONTACT: Janet Carmosky, +1-518-894-4805, janetcarmosky@hotmail.com, or
Magnus Bartlett, magnus@odysseypublications.com, both for China Productions

Web site: http://www.wwnorton.com/
http://www.odysseypublications.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: Author interviews possible. Review copies, images available.

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Profile: Fashion

Cruise Critic Predicts Cruising's Latest Trends

2005-09-13T02:10:00.000-07:00

Cruise Critic Predicts Cruising's Latest Trends

PENNINGTON, N.J., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- In an era in which cruise lines are searching for ways to carve out their own niches, trends are constantly developing and evolving. At Cruise Critic (http://www.cruisecritic.com/), the nation's leading consumer information source for cruise travel, we're also thinking ahead to 2006. Here's what to watch over the next year in cruising:

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050913/NYFNSE02 )

More Family-Oriented Amenities

The Family Cruise Explosion. From the "good news, bad news" corner here at Cruise Critic, we watch cruise lines' all-consuming desire to attract families with some trepidation. The positive aspect is that a cruise can be a perfect family vacation. The potential downside? Ships that aren't prepared for families -- via kid-related programs and facilities -- can have trouble managing hundreds of energetic children.

Pool Decks. Royal Caribbean is pioneering a whole new approach -- one that more closely emulates a water park rather than a traditional pool area.

Is McDonald's Next? More and more cruise lines are incorporating favorite brand names into cruise ship restaurants and facilities -- most notably Royal Caribbean's Ben & Jerry's ice cream and Fisher Price under-three kids' activities, Carnival's teen program with Coca-Cola, and Norwegian Cruise Line's partnership with Second City.

The Teen Conundrum. Cruise lines, running with a trend that really began last year, continue to scratch their heads to try to find teen cruisers an experience that will appeal to them (and keep them busy and out of trouble, too).

Increased Cost of Cruising

Fuel Surcharges. In addition to all of the other a la carte features you pay for onboard (spa treatments, shore excursions, craft activities, alternative restaurants), Crystal and Radisson Seven Seas Cruises have already passed fuel surcharges on to passengers -- and we expect more lines to follow suit.

More Exotic Destinations

World Cruises. More popular than expected last year, world cruises continue to gain momentum with the announcement that in 2007, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 will join Queen Elizabeth 2 in offering an around-the-world sailing.

Down Under Cruises. Australia and New Zealand couldn't be more perfectly suited for cruise travel -- and it looks like Americans are starting to take the plunge.

About Cruise Critic

Cruise Critic, celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, is a comprehensive cruise vacation planning guide which includes cruise reviews, ports of call profiles, cruise features, message boards, member reviews and cruise news. Cruise Critic was named to Travel & Leisure's "The 35 Best Travel Sites" in 2004 and has also received the Society of American Travel Writers' Lowell Thomas Bronze Award.

CONTACT:
Carolyn Spencer Brown, Editor
editor@cruisecritic.com
609-730-9155 x17

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050913/NYFNSE02
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Cruise Critic

CONTACT: Carolyn Spencer Brown, Editor, Cruise Critic,
editor@cruisecritic.com, +1-609-730-9155 x17

Web site: http://www.cruisecritic.com/

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Profile: Fashion

dunhill - The Official Choice of the England Cricket Team - Summer 2005

2005-09-13T02:09:00.001-07:00

dunhill - The Official Choice of the England Cricket Team - Summer 2005

LONDON, September 13/PRNewswire/ --

- The England Cricket Team and dunhill

As England celebrate the momentous occasion of winning The Ashes, dunhill
is thrilled to be the designer of the official team uniform, both formal and
casual, since the 2002/3 Ashes Tour.

All the elements of the collection have been designed exclusively by
dunhill for the England team, and each uniform has been individually tailored
to each player.

As the team tour around the capital on Tuesday they will be sporting the
official dunhill off pitch uniform of a blazer, complete with natural horn
buttons engraved with the England emblem, a long-sleeved fine twill shirt,
the official Test Series silk tie, and a pair of formal trousers. The
interior of the jacket has the player's name, Test number and the
international cricket team badge embroidered into the jacquard lining. The
uniform is finished with a pair of sterling silver 'Cricket Ball' cufflinks
and an elegant black 'Cricket' calfskin belt, featuring the signature cream
cricket stitch and oxblood leather interior.

dunhill began its relationship with the game in the early 1900s when
founder, Alfred Dunhill, created his famous Dunhillion Cricket range. This
featured various cricketing items such as bats, pads, balls and stumps all
featuring the Dunhillion name.

Source: dunhill

For further details on dunhill's involvement with the England Cricket Team please contact: Sarah Carlsen / Isabelle Palmer - yellowdoor, Tel: +44-(0)20-7580-0707, Email: isabellep@yellow-door.co.uk

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Profile: Fashion

Are You Paying Hidden Fees When Booking Hotel Rooms?

2005-09-13T02:09:00.000-07:00

Are You Paying Hidden Fees When Booking Hotel Rooms?

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Are you paying $4 to $10 per night in extra hotel booking fees? You probably are if you use one of the mega-travel sites, such as Expedia, Hotels.com, Travelocity or Orbitz. Now consumers can avoid those hidden fees and other charges by booking through www.RoomRate.com, a new "consumer-friendly" hotel booking site.

Most people do not realize they are paying hidden fees on the mega-sites, because they are added at the very end of the booking process. A recent comparison of rates for a popular hotel in Washington, D.C., turned up a nightly rate of $215, the same rate quoted on the hotel's own site. The local hotel tax rate is 14.5 percent, so the final rate should be $246.18 per night.

But the Expedia rate was $251 -- a difference of $4.82 per night. It was hidden under the term "service fees." For a typical three-night stay, that amounts to almost $15 in extra fees. For other hotels in downtown Washington and nearby Arlington, Virginia, hidden fees ranged from $4 to $9 per night. The same type of fees were found on Travelocity, Orbitz, and Hotels.com.

The mega-sites rely on so-called "merchant model" rates. They contract with the hotel for inventory, mark up the rate to include taxes and fees, and sell it directly to the customer. Merchant model rates pose other drawbacks for the consumer. For example, on the mega-sites a customer is required to pay the entire hotel bill on his credit card at the time of booking, even when only a credit card guarantee is required at the hotel. When you need to cancel or modify a reservation, the mega-sites may charge $25 or more, even if that charge that is not required by the hotel.

All of these problems are eliminated on www.RoomRate.com. Unlike the mega-sites, RoomRate.com does not rely on merchant model rates. Using the latest XML technology, RoomRate.com connects the consumer directly to the hotels. Consumers can compare all available rates, including AAA, AARP corporate and government rates.

At www.RoomRate.com consumers can shop for rates and availability, select a hotel, book the discounted rates online with a simple credit card guarantee (not a full payment), and pay directly to the hotel upon checkout. Best of all, there are no hidden booking fees, and no extra cancellation charges. That's why it is called the "consumer-friendly" choice for booking online hotel rooms.

Source: RoomRate.com

CONTACT: Thomas Hall of RoomRate.com, +1-860-543-6079,
Thall@roomrate.com

Web site: http://www.roomrate.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Feature News Briefs For August 24, 2005

2005-09-12T14:04:00.000-07:00

Feature News Briefs For August 24, 2005

Automatic High Beams Increase Driver Safety

Studies have found drivers use their high beams less than 25 percent of the time they are needed. Many are afraid of blinding oncoming motorists or don't want to be bothered with turning them on and off. Now, Gentex has developed SmartBeam, a system that uses a microprocessor and tiny camera embedded in a computer chip to automatically turn high beams on and off depending on traffic conditions at night, when fatal accidents are three to four times likely to occur, government figures show. SmartBeam is available on two Jeep Cherokee models, the Jeep Commander and Chrysler 300. http://www.gentex.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3017975&packageid=1006764.

Cyclists Take to Road and Air

To bring the term "high-flying biker" to life, John Garwood is offering tours to hopscotch the nation by motorcycle and private jet. Garwood, owner of Ride and Fly Tours, supplies guides, first-class hotels, meals and bike transport. Riders spend a day touring a destination of their choosing on roads picked for a rider's particular style. All tours finish up at an airport, where riders are taken by private jet for the next day's adventure. They could ride, for example, in Georgia's Chattahoochie National Forest one day, across the Hudson River Valley in New York the next, and through Maine's Acadia National Park the day after. http://www.rideandflytours.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/search.jsp?searchtype=full&option=headlines &criteriadisplay=show&resourceid=2989389.

Round Homes Stand Up To Hurricanes

There is no such thing as a hurricane-proof home, but one type of prefabricated home aims to come close. Made by Deltec, they are known as round homes, although they are actually a series of flat, eight-foot-wide panels joined at angles. The roof is at an optimal pitch for wind deflection, with minimal surface areas for walls so wind can't build up enough pressure to blow them down. In its 37-year history, Deltec says it has never received a report of one of its homes being lost to high winds. One customer in Arcadia, Florida, endured three hurricanes last year, and said the only damage was a few missing roof tiles. http://www.deltechomes.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/search.jsp?searchtype=full&option=headlines &criteriadisplay=show&resourceid=2975508.

Kids in Need Foundation Aids 1.1 Million

An eraser for a student fearful of doing math because he could not correct mistakes, grants to teachers for class field trips or glitter for a poster, are some of the items that come free from the 21 resource centers of the Kids in Need Foundation. Marking its 10th year, the foundation, operated by the School, Home, & Office Products Association, has distributed more than $150 million in school supplies to 65,000 teachers to aid 1.1 million students in all grades. Dr. Frank Till, schools superintendent in Broward County, FL, says: "Giving children the tools to learn enables them to believe in themselves." http://www.kidsinneed.net/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3014068.

Online Shopping Gets Personal

Face it, going to the mall is not what most people consider fun. Neither is spending hours online comparison shopping in the hunt for the best products and prices. PersonalShopper.com is looking to save time-starved consumers from all that. The site searches through millions of products to proactively offer an unbiased selection of items, based on a user's preferences and interests, not on merchants paying for preferred placement. It also intuitively offers gift ideas for birthdays, weddings and other occasions, based on previous purchases, and continues searching for deals even when a user is not online. http://www.personalshopper.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3011550.

Drug May Modify Alzheimer's

A medication under study may help curtail Alzheimer's disease, which afflicts nearly half of those over 85. Initial trials have shown a drug called Ampakine can reduce memory loss by treating the cause instead of the symptoms. Cortex Pharmaceuticals has found Ampakine compounds can combat weakening of brain-cell connections believed to cause memory loss. They may also strengthen brain cells to curb mild cognitive disorders. Second- generation studies are scheduled to determine whether Ampakine can modify Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and mild to moderate Alzheimer's. http://www.cortexpharm.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=3015810&packageid=10067 61.

New Carbon Monoxide Sensor Testing Technology

Most carbon monoxide (CO) alarms do not have the capability to test whether the sensor that detects the gas is actually working, according to Kathy Ellington, Marketing Director of Safety for Invensys Controls, and maker of Firex brand CO and smoke alarms. Firex alarms, with a new self-test feature, automatically test themselves to verify the sensor to detect CO -- a tasteless, odorless and colorless gas -- is working and to also provide a warning to homeowners when the sensor is nearing the end of its service life. Firex says CO alarms should typically be replaced every five years. http://www.icca.invensys.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=FNS&reso urceid=3004581&packageid=1006722.

Math Pushups for the Brain

Go figure. Just as you keep physically fit with exercises, five minutes of simple math exercises daily can help memory retention. Neurologist Ryuta Kawashima, author of "Train Your Brain: 60 Days To a Better Brain" (Kumon Publishing, $12.95), says simple daily math and reading aloud are good for the brain as going to the gym is for the body. It has even been shown to help those with Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Kawashima set out to see if video games were good mental workouts but discovered reading aloud and doing simple math problems quickly achieved greater mental stimulation. http://www.kumonbooks.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=FNS&reso urceid=3011539&packageid=1006747.

Go Ahead, Lie To Your Kids!

"Sure, sure, it's important to tell your kids the truth. Except when it's better to just flat out lie." Such is the sage and firmly tongue-in-cheek advice from Susan Konig, author of "Why Animals Sleep So Close to the Road (And Other Lies I Tell My Children)." Konig chronicles how, as her brood -- now numbering four -- grew, she and her husband fled Manhattan for the suburbs and acquired a new set of survival skills. That included how to tell her daughter the family cat died and then plan a burial. "Hopefully, she wouldn't make the connection that ... everything I'd attempted to bury in our backyard (daffodils, tulip bulbs) had been dug up and eaten by squirrels." http://www.susankonig.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3004592.

Tattoos For Tees

If you always wanted a tattoo, but thought it would interfere with you making a fashion statement, relax. Now you can have the best of both worlds. Butter nyc has launched a line of tattoo tees for women and girls. Each long- sleeved tee is made from pre-shrunk cotton and comes with a tattoo on the left shoulder, with such designs as hot-pink daisies, rainbows, butterflies, stars and custom initials. Tees come in six colors for women, white for girls, and are priced $32-$68. http://www.butternyc.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=FNS&reso urceid=2996302&packageid=1006655.

Frat Death Sparks Anti-Booze Drive

Student activists at more than 50 colleges are campaigning to warn about the dangers of binge drinking, which run rampant at many schools. The effort is spearheaded by the Gordie Foundation, named in memory of Lynn "Gordie" Bailey, who died of alcohol poisoning during a University of Colorado fraternity initiation. Gordie Awareness Week starts on the anniversary of the 18-year-old freshman's death (Sept. 17, 2004) and aims to make kids aware "that the amount of liquor that makes someone pass out is dangerously close to a level that can kill them," says founder Michael Lanahan, Gordie's stepfather. The program also supplies anti-alcohol teaching materials for grammar and middle schools. http://www.thegordiefoundation.org/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3014084&packageid=1006754.

PRNewswire -- Aug. 24

Source: PR Newswire

Web site: http://www.prnewswire.com/features

NOTE TO EDITORS: To access the full stories, copy and paste the links into your Web browser. Questions and comments on the Feature News Briefs and other PR Newswire Feature services are welcome at featuredesk@prnewswire.com. All PR Newswire features and other releases, both current and for the past 12 months, are available at no charge at PR Newswire for Journalists, http://www.prnewswire.com/media.

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Profile: Fashion

PoshTots 'Seals' the Deal With More Celeb Clients

2005-09-12T13:16:00.000-07:00

PoshTots 'Seals' the Deal With More Celeb Clients

Klum, McDermott, Sampras, Bratt and Stiller Top the List

RICHMOND, Va., Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- PoshTots continues to add to their long list of Hollywood clients. Most recently Dylan and Shiva Rose McDermott, Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor and Benjamin Bratt and wife Talisa Soto also have called upon PoshTots to create a special environment for their new arrivals. Also among the list are Pete Sampras and Bridgette Wilson, who recently gave birth to their second son.

Supermodel Heidi Klum and singing sensation Seal knew where to turn when searching for the perfect environment for their daughter Leni's room.

PoshTots founders and lead designers Karen Booth Adams and Andrea Edmunds have amazing plans for little Leni's room, where she'll feel as if she stepped into a fairy tale. Klum and Seal have chosen a look similar to PoshTots' Gingerbread Cottage Bed -- a custom-made, hand-painted bed and play loft combination. A door opens to reveal kid-sized stairs to the second level play area. A hand-painted Secret Garden Armoire and Bunny Hutch Toy Chest, resembling a real bunny, complete the look of the fairy tale themed room.

"Our design strategy is simple," states Adams. "We create environments where little ones are inspired to dream big, be creative and play; a place where the family can come together to relax and share special moments together."

In May 2005, PoshTots launched a brand expansion to target the adult home furnishings market as well. PoshLiving.com -- Luxury Furnishings for Real Life -- has begun to find worldwide fans in search of unique and inspiring furnishings for other rooms of the home.

Known in media circles as the "go-to source for celebrity parents," founders Adams and Edmunds developed Poshtots into a multi-million dollar business with their lengthy roster of celebrity clients and television appearances. Exposure on VH1, Friends, Stuart Little 2, Access Hollywood and countless number of print magazines has elevated the brand to the top of the children's luxury furnishings niche. PoshTots combines the convenience of the Web with the hands-on feel of a boutique.

Source: PoshTots

CONTACT: Andrea Edmunds, +1-804-935-6188 x4841, aedmunds@PoshTots.com,
or Jennifer Gurley, +1-804-935-6188 x4853, jgurley@PoshTots.com, both of
PoshTots

Web site: http://www.poshtots.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Christopher & Banks Corporation Announces Webcast of Second Quarter Results Conference Call

2005-09-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

Christopher & Banks Corporation Announces Webcast of Second Quarter Results Conference Call

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Christopher & Banks Corporation (NYSE:CBK) invites investors to listen to a broadcast of the Company's conference call to discuss second quarter results. The call will be broadcast live over the Internet on Tuesday, September 20, 2005 at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) at http://www.christopherandbanks.com/.

An online archive of the broadcast will be available within one hour of the completion of the call and will be accessible at http://www.christopherandbanks.com/ until October 4, 2005.

Christopher & Banks Corporation is a Minneapolis-based specialty retailer of women's clothing. The Company currently operates 675 women's specialty stores in 45 states under the names: Christopher & Banks, C.J. Banks and Acorn. The Company currently has 487 Christopher & Banks stores, 167 C.J. Banks stores and 21 Acorn stores.

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding future performance of the Company. The achievement of such results is subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including changes in economic, market and weather conditions, the effect of consumer tastes and spending habits, the realization of expected economies gained through the use of private label and direct import merchandise, management of growth and other factors outside the Company's control, including factors discussed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect management's analysis only as of the date hereof.

The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date hereof.

Source: Christopher & Banks Corporation

CONTACT: Bill Prange, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of
Christopher & Banks Corporation, +1-763-551-5000; or Investor Relations,
Melissa Myron or Rachel Albert, both of Financial Dynamics, +1-212-850-5600,
for Christopher & Banks Corporation

Web site: http://www.christopherandbanks.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Dressing a Galaxy: The Costumes of Star Wars

2005-09-12T09:32:00.000-07:00

Dressing a Galaxy: The Costumes of Star Wars

NEW YORK, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ --
WHAT: In conjunction with Lucasfilm, The Fashion Institute of Design &
Merchandising/FIDM is proud to present Dressing a Galaxy: The
Costumes of Star Wars, a runway show celebrating the work of
costume designer, Trisha Biggar. The show is an extension of a
larger exhibition being held at the FIDM Museum and Galleries in
Los Angeles, California. The show, a combination of film and
theatre, will feature approximately thirty-five of the most
elegant and boldly imaginative Star Wars costumes and celebrates
the bond between fashion and film.

WHEN: Thursday, September 15, 2005, 6:00 pm

WHERE: Ziegfeld Theatre, 141 West 54 Street, New York

Source: HL Group

CONTACT: Guillermo Zalamea, HL Group, +1-212-529-5533, ext. 252, or
cell, +1-917-494-2909, or Guillermo@hlgrp.com

NOTE TO EDITORS: Media will have photograph access to runway show. Please contact below for credential requests and additional information.

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Profile: Fashion

L'Oreal's Third International Symposium on Ethnic Hair and Skin Spotlights New Treatments, Key Dermatological Issues

2005-09-12T07:09:00.000-07:00

L'Oreal's Third International Symposium on Ethnic Hair and Skin Spotlights New Treatments, Key Dermatological Issues

CHICAGO, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- The third international symposium on ethnic hair and skin, a gathering of respected scientific thought leaders, will convene this September in Chicago, sponsored by the L'Oreal Institute for Ethnic Hair and Skin Research, in partnership with Howard University College of Medicine, Department of Dermatology.

The symposium, "Ethnic Hair & Skin: Advancing the Scientific Frontier," will bring together dermatologists, other physicians and scientists from academia, industry and private practice to discuss the latest ethnic-specific research. The three day event will be held September 23 through 25, 2005, at The Fairmont Hotel, 200 N. Columbus Drive, Chicago, and will feature presentations by a number of leading researchers from around the world.

This year, the symposium breaks new ground by exploring not only new laboratory research, but also experimental clinical treatments, including use of lasers to treat hair and skin problems.

"This year's exciting research offers new hope that serious hair and skin problems can be controlled, either by using new treatments being presented or by building on the findings of researchers in the field," said Victoria Holloway Barbosa, MD, MPH, director of the L'Oreal Institute for Ethnic Hair and Skin Research. "This symposium demonstrates how L'Oreal's commitment to science extends beyond the company, into the larger scientific community, providing a forum to discuss the very real concerns for women and men of different ethnicities.

"Disfiguring hair and skin disorders can dramatically affect how an individual copes with the world," Holloway Barbosa added. "Finding tangible solutions will do more than make people look better; it will contribute to their quality of life. The research shared during the Symposium represents a significant step toward treating these problems."

The research findings to be presented deal with a variety of dermatological issues confronting ethnic consumers, including:

-- New treatments for pseudofolliculits barbae or hair bumps.

-- New treatments for alopecia, or hair loss in women of color.

-- New research into maturational hyperpigmentation or age spots.

-- The use of new molecules in preventing melanogenesis or pigmentation
spots.

-- Strengthening African hair.

-- Use of lasers in the treatment of acne.

-- Use of lasers in the treatment of facial hair.

"This event continues to break new ground," said Dr. Rebat Halder, Chairman of the Howard University Department of Dermatology and co-chair of the symposium. "Approximately 80 percent of the world's population are people of color, deriving from places such as Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, however, most of the scientific community's understanding of the structure and function of hair and skin comes from research on Caucasian people. This symposium and the work of L'Oreal's Institute are significant in broadening the knowledge base."

The Symposium will also feature keynote addresses by two women who understand the issues facing ethnic consumers and the importance of this research: Mikki Taylor, cover and beauty editor of Essence magazine, and A'Lelia Bundles, author of the critically-acclaimed, best-selling biography about her great-great-grandmother On Her Own Ground: The Life and Times of Madam C. J. Walker.

"The research being discussed here is critical to solving the problems affecting millions of consumers and patients worldwide," said Dr. Susan Taylor, Founding Director, Skin of Color Center at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York. "L'Oreal is helping to focus the rigorous science of skin and hair on the needs of ethnic people. This science improves our knowledge of skin and hair diseases, treatments and products. This exciting meeting lays critical groundwork for the future."

Researchers, healthcare providers and others interested in registering for or learning more about the symposium should e-mail: Loreal@ghgroup.com or phone: 877-327-8564.

About the L'Oreal Institute

The Chicago-based L'Oreal Institute for Ethnic Hair and Skin Research is the first and only research facility operated by a beauty company whose sole mission is to conduct and support basic science research to better understand the unique properties of the hair and skin of people of African descent. Established in 2000, the Institute moved into new state-of-the-art laboratories on Chicago's Near South Side in June of 2003. In addition to conducting research, the L'Oreal Institute supports educational activities that provide healthcare professionals, researchers and consumers with information about personal care issues specific to people of African descent, such as hair loss and skin discoloration -- issues that are particularly important to these populations and need further research. The L'Oreal Institute is one of 11 L'Oreal Group skin and hair research centers in France, the United States and Japan. The company dedicates over $300 million a year to research and development -- more than any other beauty company in the world.

About Howard University College of Medicine

Founded in 1868, the Howard University College of Medicine was the first medical school in the United States dedicated to training African-American physicians. Under the leadership of Dr. John A. Kenney, Jr., the Department of Dermatology became a full department, separate from internal medicine, in 1973. The department continues to thrive with a diverse faculty, a residency- training program, and active clinical and laboratory research in skin diseases that specifically affect ethnic populations. An Institute for Black Skin Research was established within the department in 1999.

Source: L'Oreal Institute for Ethnic Hair and Skin Research

CONTACT: Geoff Curtis of GCI Group, +1-312-229-9702,
gcurtis@gcigroup.com

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Profile: Fashion

7 For All Mankind Launches 'More 7' Brand, Designed by the Ron Herman Design Studio

2005-09-12T06:46:00.000-07:00

7 For All Mankind Launches 'More 7' Brand, Designed by the Ron Herman Design Studio

VERNON, Calif., Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Fans of 7 For All Mankind premium jeans, renowned for their superior fit and sexy styles, are about to get a whole lot more in the way of body enhancing.

Vernon-based 7 For All Mankind is launching "More 7" -- a new brand of separates for men and women. The design of More 7 is based upon the same principals that 7 For All Mankind applies to its jeans: perfect fit, timeless styles, constant innovation and the best fabrics and innovative finishes.

But what's more ... 7 For All Mankind has commissioned Ron Herman's Design Studio to design the new More 7 line. Bringing 35 years of luxury retail experience to the table, Mr. Herman is a natural fit to create More 7.

"More 7 is 7 For All Mankind, just more of it," said Ron Herman. "We're taking the values of 7 For All Mankind forward and creating perfect natural complements. This is still all about fabric, texture, color, and fit. My responsibility is to create a product that complements what they do already, but which can also stand on its own."

Ron Herman's Design Studio will develop and design this new line starting with T-Shirts. Ultimately the line may become more comprehensive. 7 For All Mankind will produce and distribute More 7 in its current distribution channels.

The launch of the new More 7 brand is part of 7 For All Mankind's strategy to team up with the best talents in the industry and related fields of design, architecture, and communication.

"We look forward to working with 7 For All Mankind in the long run," said Herman. "The relationship between us has been a long and positive one based on mutual respect and admiration. 7 For All Mankind will remain above the fray because they have a great fitting jean that is classic and timeless and known for its reliability, integrity, and creativity. That's what we will do for More 7."

"We are very happy to embark on this new brand with the person who has created California sportswear. He embodies like no other store the feeling and vibe of what sophisticated luxury sportswear is all about. Ron will infuse great energy into our tops and still respect what made us so aspirational over the past five years. We are very excited about taking our business to the next level, both domestically and internationally," remarked Peter Koral, Chairman and President of 7 For All Mankind.

More 7 launches Women's Tees for Spring / Summer 2006

The first pieces from More 7 is a line of supple women's tee shirts available in 30 different colors and in six different fabrics including fleece, jersey, sweat shirting, and rib with each one specially dyed and treated for a sublime softness of hand.

Ron Herman's creative team conducted intense fabric sourcing research and development promising each tee a texture and softness that is consistent in quality and integrity. Meticulous attention is being paid to every detail on the seams, trims, stitching and all aspects of the sewing process to guarantee each tee with a fit that is perfectly sculpted to enhance a woman's body and compliment her wardrobe.

7 For All Mankind's sophisticated customers will love the soft handle of each new sculpted More 7 tee shirt regardless of whether they live in the Hamptons, Miami, Newport Beach, or Los Angeles and regardless of their age.

Each season More 7 tees will tempt customers with new delicate innovations and a fresh vibe, but the comfort and timeless fits that the collection is based upon will always be at its core. A selection of Basic More 7 Tees will be on hand each season the same way in which 7 For All Mankind promises its customers they can always return to find their classic denim favorites.

"We're using my experience and knowledge about California lifestyle because I know what works and what doesn't," said Herman about his approach to design. "What works is classic style, sophistication, great fabrics and a fit that enhances a woman's body and her wardrobe. It's a complete 7 For All Mankind philosophy -- the perfect staple."

More 7 women's tees can be seen at New York's Coterie Fashion Trade Show located at The Piers on September 20 to 22. Distribution is slated for the Spring / Summer 2006 season with retail prices ranging from $50 to $70.

About 7 For All Mankind, LLC

7 For All Mankind launched the premium denim market in the United States when it was founded in 2000 by Peter Koral of Koral Industries. The denim brand quickly earned critical acclaim and an immediate following for its amazing fits, fabrics, and finishes in denim. 7 For All Mankind has since expanded its line to include a complete men's collection, women's shirts, skirts and outerwear using fabrics such as corduroy, velvet, twill, and satin as well as a children's denim collection. 7 For All Mankind is currently sold at high-end specialty stores such as Barneys, Ron Herman, and Neiman Marcus, as well as at specialty boutiques in over 70 countries throughout the world. Bear Stearns Merchant Banking acquired a 50% stake in the privately-held company in March 2005. Peter Koral remains the company's Chairman and President.

About Ron Herman

Ron Herman is a California native, born and raised in Los Angeles. Herman incorporated his Ron Herman retail store in 1976 with the opening of his first specialty boutique at the Fred Segal Center on Melrose in Los Angeles. The Ron Herman store brought to Los Angeles one-of-a-kind men's and women's apparel and accessory collections representing the latest in trends and must-have styles, including several brands Herman spearheaded on his own, including RH Vintage and More. Word spread quickly catapulting the Ron Herman store into a design institution and a source of inspiration for the film and television industry's stylists, designers, manufacturers, and retailers alike. Since 1976, four more stores have opened in Brentwood, Beverly Hills, South Coast Plaza, and Malibu, all of which continue to boast a loyal A-list celebrity clientele.

Source: 7 For All Mankind, LLC

CONTACT: Kirsten Sharett, Director of Global Communications, or Jaime
Smith, Public Relations Manager, both of 7 For All Mankind, LLC,
+1-212-764-3745

Web site: http://www.7forallmankind.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Warnaco Names Elizabeth Wood Senior Vice President Human Resources

2005-09-12T06:39:00.000-07:00

Warnaco Names Elizabeth Wood Senior Vice President Human Resources

NEW YORK, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Warnaco Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:WRNC) today announced that Elizabeth Wood has joined the Company as Senior Vice President, Human Resources. In her role, Wood will be responsible for all aspects of human resources worldwide.

Wood, 44, most recently served as a consultant with the Breakthrough Group. She was Executive Vice President, Human Resources for Brooks Brothers from 1996 - 2002. Prior to Brooks Brothers she served in various senior human resources positions in the U.S. and Canada for Marks and Spencer Group plc.

Joe Gromek, Warnaco's President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are pleased to add Elizabeth to our management team and look forward to her contributions in support of our global growth. She is a talented professional with a proven track record in developing and implementing strategic human resources initiatives including recruitment, talent planning and organizational and executive development."

About The Warnaco Group, Inc.

The Warnaco Group, Inc., headquartered in New York, is a leading apparel company engaged in the business of designing, marketing and selling intimate apparel, menswear, jeanswear, swimwear, men's and women's sportswear and accessories under such owned and licensed brands as Warner's(R), Olga(R), Lejaby(R), Body Nancy Ganz(TM), Speedo(R), Anne Cole(R), Op(R), Ocean Pacific(R), Cole of California(R) and Catalina(R) as well as Chaps(R) sportswear and denim, J. Lo by Jennifer Lopez(R) lingerie, Nautica(R) swimwear, Michael Kors(R) swimwear and Calvin Klein(R) men's and women's underwear, men's, women's, junior women's and children's jeans and women's and juniors' swimwear.

Source: The Warnaco Group, Inc.

CONTACT: Deborah Abraham, Director, Investor Relations, The Warnaco
Group, Inc., +1-212-287-8289

Web site: http://www.warnaco.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Gadgets for Girls: Sony and Luella Merge High Fashion With High-Tech for Spring 2006

2005-09-12T06:25:00.000-07:00

Gadgets for Girls: Sony and Luella Merge High Fashion With High-Tech for Spring 2006

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics and Luella Bartley joined forces Sunday for an empowering experience during Bartley's Spring/Summer 2006 runway show.

Demonstrating women's growing influence on the consumer electronics industry, Sony's super-slim DSC-T7 Cyber-shot(R) digital cameras and edgy NW-E505 Walkman(R) digital music players adorned the models as Luella Bartley introduced her latest collection.

To celebrate the union of high tech and high fashion, Luella Bartley created a limited edition laptop bag, designed exclusively for Sony VAIO(R) notebook PCs that also appeared on the runway.

For Spring/Summer 2006 Bartley mixed uptown luxury with downtown attitude contrasting the conservative world of English sailing with the iconic underground London and New York music scenes. Sony's sleek devices perfectly complemented the lean and sexy lines of Bartley's collection on the catwalk.

The collaboration between Bartley and Sony began several years ago from a mutual belief in the merging of technology and fashion.

"From product engineering to color and design, consumer electronics are now personalized and incorporated into wardrobe and style considerations, revealing as much about consumer preferences and personality as wardrobes," said Mike Fasulo, chief marketing officer for Sony Electronics. "Women's influence on consumer electronics is growing rapidly and Sony has made a strong commitment to cater to this segment."

The Luella laptop bag, which was inspired by the Spring/Summer 2006 collection, complements the elegant design of Sony's VAIO notebook PCs and provides a chic alternative for women who value form as much as function.

Also at the show, the Luella for Sony "Gadgets for Girls" Lounge offered guests the opportunity to test drive some of Sony's latest product offerings.

Female-friendly devices on display included VAIO notebook PCs, Cyber-shot digital cameras, Walkman digital music players and the four-legged AIBO entertainment robot (a girl's best friend).

Luella designed MiniDisc Walkman player accessory bags and Network(TM) Walkman player accessory cases were also on display in the lounge.

And for digital music fans that are as inspired by rock and roll as the designer, Luella's exclusive playlist is available at Sony's Connect(TM) online music store.

Contact: Rachel Branch
Sony Electronics Inc.
858-521-0743
rachel.branch@am.sony.com

Marcy Cohen
Sony Electronics Inc.
201-930-6884
marcy.cohen@am.sony.com

Ali Froley
Bizmarck Phillips
323-655-4741
ali@bpcm.com

Source: Sony Electronics Inc.

CONTACT: Rachel Branch, +1-858-521-0743, rachel.branch@am.sony.com, or
Marcy Cohen, +1-201-930-6884, marcy.cohen@am.sony.com, both of Sony
Electronics Inc.; or Ali Froley of Bizmarck Phillips, +1-323-655-4741,
ali@bpcm.com

Web site: http://www.sony.com/news

NOTE TO EDITORS: News releases and digital images with captions are available at http://www.sony.com/news. For information regarding the nearest Sony authorized dealer or service location, your readers can call 1-800-222-SONY. They can also visit the sonystyle.com web site or Sony Style stores in major fashion malls around the country.

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Profile: Fashion

Project Then & WOW!: Real Women Lose Weight and Gain a New Perspective

2005-09-12T05:50:00.000-07:00

Project Then & WOW!: Real Women Lose Weight and Gain a New Perspective

Weight Watchers' Winners Get 'Model' Treatment During Fashion Week

NEW YORK, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- This year, the hottest trend on the runway is self-confidence. To celebrate the physical and emotional health benefits of weight loss, Weight Watchers has partnered with women's fashion designer Betsey Johnson to celebrate the winners of their national, annual Then & WOW! weight-loss contest by giving them "model" treatment during Fashion Week. Winners will be flown in from their hometown to model in a Betsey Johnson Fashion Show on NBC's "Today" Show, Monday September 12th.

After searching through the Weight Watchers members' applications, Martha Parker of Pelham, Alabama, Nathalie Bolin of Cincinnati, Ohio, Heather Haouchine of Middletown, Connecticut and Renita Goetz of Fargo, North Dakota were selected as the winners of the national contest. Each winner demonstrated remarkable commitment and personal evolution throughout their experience and illustrated the transformation and newfound confidence that can occur with weight loss.

"I dropped a lot of weight and it changed my life," says Martha Parker, national winner. "During my weight-loss journey, I never felt alone. I had constant support and encouragement at Weight Watchers meetings to help me make positive changes to my diet and lifestyle. I am excited about going to New York and sharing my story with other people who don't realize that they can do it too," she adds.

Results from the Weight Watchers new Then & WOW! national survey -- designed to capture the mindset of women who recently committed to losing weight -- reflect that weight loss is not just a physical struggle, it is an emotional one as well. "I know, from my own experience, how challenging it can be to lose weight. I want to thank everyone who shared their personal experiences with us as part of this contest and applaud each of the winners. I'm proud to help celebrate such terrific people and put them in the spotlight," adds Weight Watchers media spokesperson Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York.

Weight Watchers' Then & WOW! survey reveals that more than 33 percent of women surveyed feared exercising in public before they lost weight. Additionally, 37 percent were less motivated to date or spend time with their significant other before weight loss.

There is hope however, since many women, just like the Then & WOW! winners, are focusing on a weight-loss routine. In fact, more than 80 percent of women surveyed in the U.S. have recently committed to a healthy lifestyle in an effort to lose weight and gain a new perspective. After successfully losing weight, 50 percent of the women surveyed said they felt more confident and were more motivated to try new things or sample a new look.

"The Then & WOW! winners have such an amazing attitude. They feel great and that confidence comes through when they come down the runway. I've styled them all in a modern way that reflects their new look," says Betsey Johnson, women's fashion designer.

Additionally, the four Then & WOW! winners will be attending Betsey Johnson's fashion show on September 12th at 3:00 pm in Bryant Park. "We'll be the girls at Fashion Week laughing and having a great time," says Parker.

About Weight Watchers

Weight Watchers is America's trusted name in weight loss and the global leader in weight-loss services, with approximately 46,000 weekly meetings in 30 countries. The mission of Weight Watchers is to help people reach and maintain a healthy weight. At the heart of Weight Watchers are weekly meetings that provide the coaching and tools to help people make the positive changes required to lose weight and keep it off. Weight Watchers also offers Internet subscription products for people wanting access to interactive weight management resources over the Internet. To learn more about Weight Watchers services, products and publications, visit WeightWatchers.com. To find the nearest Weight Watchers meeting location, call 1-800-651-6000 or click on the 'Find a Meeting' link at the top of our homepage.

Then & WOW! is an annual essay contest conducted by Weight Watchers since 1998 to spotlight the most inspirational and incredible weight-loss success stories among its members. Four grand-prize winners and 60 first-prize winners are chosen throughout the country. Winners are selected by a team of impartial judges based on a variety of factors, ranging from amount of weight lost to the magnitude and inspirational nature of the personal transformation.

Fieldwork for the Then and WOW! national survey was conducted by ORC International from July 28 to August 1, 2005. Ketchum Global Research Network was responsible for questionnaire design and data analysis. The survey was conducted via phone using a random digit dial methodology among a representative sample of adult women. Final results are based on adult women who committed to weight loss or more exercise in the past 6 months and have successfully lost weight. Findings are statistically significant at the 95% confidence level with a +/- 4.5% margin of error.

Source: Weight Watchers

CONTACT: Adrianna Giuliani, Ketchum, +1-646-935-4077,
adrianna.giuliani@ketchum.com, or Donna Fontana, Weight Watchers,
+1-212-589-2737, fontanad@weight-watchers.com

Web site: http://www.weightwatchers.com/

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Profile: Fashion

PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) Creates a Fashion Sensation With an Exclusive Designer Accessories Show

2005-09-12T05:35:00.000-07:00

PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) Creates a Fashion Sensation With an Exclusive Designer Accessories Show

Gwen Stefani, Lindsay Lohan, Paris Hilton, Helena Christensen and Naomi Campbell Celebrate the Hottest Lifestyle Accessory of the Year and View Signature Accessories by L.A.M.B., Calvin Klein, Fendi, Tommy Hilfiger, Anna Sui, and More

FOSTER CITY, Calif., Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- To celebrate the success of the hottest lifestyle accessory of the year, the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, Sony Computer Entertainment America brought the biggest names in fashion together for the unprecedented fashion accessories show called Pret a PSP on September 10. Acclaimed designers such as L.A.M.B., Fendi, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Anna Sui, Christian Louboutin, J. Mendel, Earnest Sewn, Lulu Guinness, adidas Respect M.E. by Missy Elliott, Maharishi and Martine Sitbon, showed off custom-designed PSP accessories to a front row filled with A-list stars including Gwen Stefani, and Lindsay Lohan during New York's biggest week in fashion.

(Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050912/SFM069-ahttp://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050912/SFM069-b )

"I'm happy to have L.A.M.B. participate in the PSP accessories show as I've always loved designing bags and accessories," said Gwen Stefani, famed musician and acclaimed designer of L.A.M.B., set to debut its highly anticipated Spring 2006 collection in collaboration with Sony Computer Entertainment America on September 16. "It's all about creativity at the end of the day, whether you're talking about fashion, technology or music, and that's what my L.A.M.B. bags are about."

On behalf of the designers, models and attendees of Pret a PSP, Sony Computer Entertainment America will be donating $25,000 to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund benefiting those affected by Hurricane Katrina. This is only a portion of donations Sony Computer Entertainment America has committed to, as the company will also match any and all personal contributions made by employees to organizations assisting with the relief effort.

Additionally, on behalf of Sony Corporation worldwide, Sony Corporation of America and its U.S. operating companies made an immediate cash contribution totaling $500,000 to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund/Hurricane Katrina. In addition, they are also running a U.S. company matching gift program with a cap for the entire contribution initiative of $1 million dollars.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by the tragic events of Hurricane Katrina.

To complement the sleek and sexy lines of PSP, top models such as Helena Christensen, Naomi Campbell, Paris Hilton, Theodora Richards, Alexandra Richards, Kirsty Hume, Anouck, Jacquetta and Alec Wek strutted on the runway with hair fashioned by Prive and make-up designed by Stila. For the show, admired celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe paired the hottest looks, including new designs by all the designers with the exclusive PSP cases that were inspired by the device's unparalleled integration of cutting edge design and technology.

Celebrated designers such as Christian Louboutin created a leather leg holster. Renaissance woman Gwen Stefani, renowned for her eclectic and funky style, created three L.A.M.B. accessories, including a gold embossed leather case with antique brass hardware and leather tassels. Tommy Hilfiger unveiled a fitted case featuring his signature Ithaca Stripe fabric, red piping and natural leather backing.

"Saturday's show demonstrated how PSP is the must-have accessory for today's mobile lifestyle," said Molly Smith, senior director, communications and brand development, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "The showcase of cutting-edge designs from fashion's top talent illustrated the merging of fashion and technology on a new level."

Following the show Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan and Jesse Metcalf hit the exclusive after-party, where they were able to explore the wide range of entertainment capabilities of PSP, including playing games with graphics rendering comparable to that of the leading in-home console, PlayStation(R)2, viewing videos and photos on the dazzling widescreen LCD, and listening to digital music.

After putting on the hottest runway show this year, SCEA will host the PSP Access Boutique at the Bryant Park Hotel. Guests of the Access Boutique will have the change to relax and interact with PSP, take a closer look at accessories featured in the show, as well as accessories by Fendi, Burberry Prorsum, Emilio Pucci, Goyard, Miu Miu, and Jeremy Scott that are part of a special collection made exclusively for colette in Paris to celebrate the launch of PSP in Europe. colette asked designers to create the cases and with their relentless search for new inspiration and creations, the designers enthusiastically responded to the idea. These cases, and more, will be available online at www.colette.fr and at the Rue Saint-Honore store in October.

Additionally, the Access Boutique will allow guests to get front row fabulous with luxury treatments such as styling from Prive, makeup application from Stila, lip plumping from LipFusion, manicures from Essie, jewelry styling by Alex and Ani, mini glycolic renewal treatments from Skinklinic, premium water from glaceau smartwater and naturally flavored vodka martinis from Cocktails by Jenn.

Following a record-setting launch in March, PSP is fast becoming a cultural icon and has proven to be a market altering force with close to 2 million units sold in North America in just five short months. The PSP is available for a suggested retail price of $249.99 (USD) in a PSP Value Pack. There are currently more than 35 games available for PSP on its custom-designed format, Universal Media Disc, and more than 125 feature films, TV programs and videos from major studios, combining to create an unmatched library of entertainment content.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(TM) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system and the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system. The PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system is set to revolutionize the home entertainment market, offering the most compelling interactive content and the capability to be used as a network terminal in the coming broadband era. PSP is a new portable entertainment system that allows users to enjoy 3D games, with high-quality full-motion video, and high-fidelity stereo audio.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and the PSP system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Visit us on the Web at http://www.us.playstation.com/ .

NOTE: "PlayStation" and the "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks and "PSP" and "UMD" are trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050912/SFM069-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050912/SFM069-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

CONTACT: Jennifer Clark of Sony Computer Entertainment America,
+1-650-655-5994, or jennifer_clark@playstation.sony.com, or Katie Cray,
+1-714-655-5967, or kcray@bncpr.com, for Sony Computer Entertainment America

Web site: http://www.playstation.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Dockers(R) Brand Evolves Into Exciting Next Phase of Business as Dockers(R) 'Dress to Live(TM)'

2005-09-12T05:28:00.000-07:00

Dockers(R) Brand Evolves Into Exciting Next Phase of Business as Dockers(R) 'Dress to Live(TM)'

- New 'Dress to Live(TM)' Brand Positioning Grows Dockers(R) Beyond Nice Pants Into a Complete Head-to-Toe Lifestyle Brand -

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Dockers(R), the nation's leading brand of men's casual clothing, today celebrates a major evolution and next phase of business with the introduction of "Dockers(R) Dress to Live(TM)." Timed just prior to the brand's 20th year in business and coinciding with the recent appointment of Dockers(R) new president, John Goodman, the launch of this brand positioning campaign marks a turning point for Dockers(R) -- growing it beyond performance-based "Nice Pants" for men into a head-to-toe lifestyle brand for both men and women. Dockers(R) Dress to Live is supported by a 360-degree marketing campaign, including TV and print advertising, a newly redesigned Dockers.com Web site and on-floor marketing components.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050912/LAM044 )

"Dockers(R) Dress to Live is a very exciting evolution for the brand, and we're supporting the launch with a comprehensive integrated marketing campaign," said Bill Stewart, vice president, Dockers(R) Brand marketing. "Our goal is to communicate the new Dress to Live identity from all angles, ensuring that our consumers are surrounded by a cohesive and enticing message that Dockers(R) has evolved beyond nice pants for men into a head-to-toe lifestyle brand for both men and women."

The Dress to Live tagline conveys a "feel good, look good" spirit grounded in the look, feel and style of San Francisco, the brand's hometown. Its complimentary new logo treatment, Dockers(R) San Francisco, links the brand to its city of inspiration and positions Dockers(R) marketing communications under one umbrella for men and women.

Both the tagline and logo treatment reflect the new look of the Dockers(R) Brand as seen in Dockers(R) Dress to Live fall 2005 product theme, Simple Luxury. Enhanced with upgraded styling details and more luxe fabrics, the Simple Luxury collection represents the brand's new look -- style with substance; approachable, understandable and unpretentious style with simple, luxurious details at a reasonable price. The head-to-toe product offering enables men and women to simplify their lives for all occasions and spans everything from shirts, pants, skirts and jackets to accessories like sunglasses, wallets and shoes.

Dockers(R) Dress to Live 360-Degree Marketing

TV commercial

Dockers(R) officially launches Dress to Live this week with a breakthrough television ad campaign entitled "Hello Trolley," which celebrates moments of spontaneous human connection and creates an emotional bond with Dockers(R) consumers.

Developed by Foote, Cone and Belding, San Francisco, "Hello Trolley" is a two-sided broadcast spot filmed from both male and female points of view, featuring both the men's and women's product together and communicating the new "Dress to Live" attitude -- a feel good, look good approach rooted in the essence of San Francisco's stylish-but-not-stiff way of dressing.

In the "His" version, the spot opens as two San Francisco trolleys sit side-by-side in the station, waiting for their departure in opposite directions. While stopped, a man and woman catch each others' eye -- instantly intrigued. Inspired by a spontaneous spirit, the guy dashes off his trolley at the last minute in an attempt to meet the woman in the next car. He misses her trolley and stands on the platform, deflated. The next instant, after both trolleys have left the station, he looks up to see the woman standing on her platform. She had the same idea. The perspective is reversed in "Her" version.

"'Hello Trolley's' strategic and creative direction draws upon a wealth of Dockers(R) consumer research that tells us that people want to live in the moment and enjoy spontaneity in their lives," said Brian Bacino, senior vice president, Foote, Cone & Belding, San Francisco.

"Hello Trolley" was filmed on the streets of Dockers(R) hometown, San Francisco, which provided the perfect backdrop representing the energy and attitude of the brand. The musical accompaniment, "Don't Wait Too Long," is performed by Georgia-born, Madeleine Peyroux, a highly acclaimed international blues artist recognized for her smoke-and-whisky vocals, and often likened to the late, great Billie Holiday. Composed by Peyroux, along with producer Larry Klein and Grammy Award-winning songwriter Jesse Harris, "Don't Wait Too Long" is the sultry breakout track on Peyroux's sophomore album, Careless Love.

Print advertising

A complimentary, "Dress to Live" print campaign also debuts this month in key men's lifestyle publications, including Esquire and Men's Health, with a special gatefold insert in GQ magazine's fall fashion issue.

The print creative features both men and women living life to the fullest, connecting with those they care about. Consumers are also called to action to "shake things up" and engage in life's spontaneous adventures -- a directive that supports Dockers(R) Dress to Live broad range of stylish, head-to-toe product offerings that enable men and women to simplify their lives for all occasions.

Dockers.com

To portray the visual essence of Dockers(R) Dress To Live online, a newly redesigned Dockers.com launched on September 1, evolving it into an equally-weighted marketing and one-click shopping site -- a model that enables Dockers(R) to both communicate its new Dress to Live brand identity and provide consumers with the information they need to purchase.

The visuals on Dockers.com leverage the creative from the Dress to Live TV and print ads and on-floor imagery, bringing Dockers(R) new brand identity to life in one cohesive place. The site reflects Dockers(R) new stepped-up style and focuses on building a stronger emotional connection with consumers by offering more compelling images, such as snapshots of men and women celebrating their everyday experiences. The site also includes in-depth product detail such as multiple views (front, back and detail shot) and the ability to see products in various colors, an asset that prepares shoppers for purchase via the one-click shopping feature. One-click shopping has proven to be a highly successful marketing vehicle for Dockers(R) retail partners as it directs pre-qualified traffic to their sites for purchase.

On-floor marketing

At retail, the Dockers(R) Dress To Live identity is brought to life through new point of sale imagery and an on-floor video, which leverages the print advertising creative.

The Dockers(R) Historic Snapshot

Phase IV -- Dockers(R) Dress to Live

With Dockers(R) Dress to Live, the brand focuses on communicating a head- to-toe style plus performance message for men and women to connect emotionally with consumers and gain solid positioning as a lifestyle resource.

Phase III -- Performance Innovation

In 2002, Dockers(R) introduced the Go Khaki(R) with Stain Defender(R), a revolutionary product that continued to breathe new life into the category. Since then, Dockers(R) has introduced several groundbreaking products including, pants with Individual Fit(R) Waistband technology, Perspiration Guard(R) Shirts and Never-Iron(TM) Cotton Khakis.

Phase II -- Nice Pants and Business Casual

In 1995, Dockers(R) introduced the "Nice Pants(TM)" identity and tagline that became one of the most popular brand taglines in advertising history. From the mid- to-late '90s, Dockers(R) led the business casual revolution, introducing America's workforce to a new way of dressing that provided the perfect balance of style and comfort.

Phase I -- Launch

In 1986, the Dockers(R) Brand pioneered an entirely new apparel category with the introduction of khakis as an alternative to dress pants and jeans.

"Hello Trolley" Creative Credits:
Spot Title: "Hello Trolley" His/Hers
Creative Director: Brian Bacino, FCB San Francisco
Art Director: Axel Celikates, FCB San Francisco
Copywriter: Brian Bacino, FCB San Francisco
Agency Producer: Jim Phox, FCB San Francisco
Production Company: H.S.I.
Director: Gerard de Thame, H.S.I.

About the Dockers(R) Brand

The Dockers(R) Brand is the leader in providing comfortable and stylish casual wear and continues to expand brand offerings to provide men and women with clothes that offer versatility for an on-the-go lifestyle. Dockers(R) khakis were first introduced in 1986 as the casual alternative to jeans and dress pants. The line has since expanded from men's casual pants to an ensemble brand providing complete collections of tops, pants, shoes, belts, outerwear and hosiery for men and women.

In 1994, the Dockers(R) Brand introduced the "Original Khaki," the most popular wrinkle-free khaki in the casual pant category. In 2001, the Dockers(R) Brand introduced the Dockers(R) Mobile Pant, an innovative khaki featuring hidden storage pockets for mobile technology devices. TIME magazine recognized the Dockers(R) Mobile Pant as one of its "Best Inventions of 2001." In 2002, the Dockers(R) Brand revolutionized the marketplace with the introduction of Stain Defender(TM) technology.

For information on Dockers(R) Brand products call 1-800-DOCKERS or visit www.Dockers.com.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050912/LAM044
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN7
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Dockers

CONTACT: John Ordona of Dockers(R), +1-415-501-7568, jordona@levi.com;
or Heather Wilkins of PainePR, +1-949-809-6766, hwilkins@painepr.com, for
Dockers

Web site: http://www.dockers.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Win a Pair of Tickets to London Fashion Week End Courtesy of TONI&GUY!

2005-09-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Win a Pair of Tickets to London Fashion Week End Courtesy of TONI&GUY!

LONDON, September 12/PRNewswire/ -- A name synonymous with fashion, TONI&GUY's fashion led approach to
hairdressing and ability to translate catwalk led style into wearable trends
made them the obvious choice as the 'Official Haircare Sponsors for London
Fashion Week and Week End!'

London's largest designer shopping event, London Fashion Week End - is
held on the site of London's famous Natural History Museum - and is home to
over 100 London Fashion Week designers, selling clothes and accessories at
jaw-dropping prices! In addition to the fabulous shopping, the award-winning
TONI&GUY session team will be hosting 'TONI&GUY Live', a show pre-viewing
'THE' must-have hair cuts and hottest new hair trends for the forthcoming
season, as well as showcasing TONI&GUY's exclusive new professional line,
label.m.

As this is an event not to be missed, TONI&GUY are offering readers the
chance to win a FREE pair of tickets to London Fashion Week End (and front
row seats at the TONI&GUY Live show). All you need to do is answer the
following question: Where is London Fashion Week End held?

For prize values and further information, please contact Karen Barnett -
PR Manager TONI&GUY Media

T: +44-(0)20-7921-9022

F: +44-(0)20-7921-9005

E: karen.barnett@toniandguy.co.uk

Source: TONI&GUY

For prize values and further information, please contact Karen Barnett - PR Manager ,TONI&GUY Media, Tel: +44-(0)20-7921-9022, Fax: +44-(0)20-7921-9005, Email: karen.barnett@toniandguy.co.uk

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Profile: Fashion

Shade Clothing Launches New 'Girly Line,' Brings Hip, Modest Clothing to Younger Crowd

2005-09-12T03:18:00.000-07:00

Shade Clothing Launches New 'Girly Line,' Brings Hip, Modest Clothing to Younger Crowd

Shade Clothing Expands Its Offerings to Include a Line of Products Designed Specifically for Girls Age Six Through 12

AMERICAN FORK, Utah, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Shade Clothing, leading provider of hip, modest clothing for women of all ages, today announced the launch of its new "Girly Line," designed to extend Shade's innovative shirts and camisoles to a younger crowd. The line will target elementary and middle school-aged girls, offering them the same modest clothing options that have made Shade's main product line a nationwide success.

The Girly Cami, the first product in the Girly Line, applies the same basic principles that have made Shade Clothing's original line of "essential undershirts" a hit among women -- extra length at the bottom, higher necklines, a comfortable cotton/spandex blend combined with a stylish, versatile cut.

"As a mother, I know how frustrating it can be to find clothes for a daughter, even a young daughter, that are cute without being too revealing," said Chelsea Rippy, founder and CEO of Shade Clothing. "We wanted to provide mothers and daughters with a mutually acceptable clothing option that would expand wardrobe choices while helping young girls dress appropriately and modestly."

The Girly Cami will be offered in sizes 7/9 and 10/12. It will be available in black, white, bubble gum pink, powder blue and lilac. Shade Clothing plans to expand the Girly Line to include more products over the course of the next few months.

"I am thrilled that Shade is offering modest clothing options that my daughter will like and want to wear and that I will approve of," said Cami Burgon, a mother of a 10-year-old daughter from Sandy, Utah. "I am so glad that I won't have to worry anymore about my 5th grader showing too much skin!"

"We expect the Girly Cami to be a hit with daughters and mothers across the country and we are looking forward to expanding the Girly Line as demand for more products grows," said Rippy.

The Girly Cami is available for purchase online at www.shadeclothing.com. A single cami sells for $12.95 and a pack of three camis for $34.

About Shade Clothing

Shade Clothing is a company with a simple mission: make clothes that help women feel comfortable and happy. Launched from the basement of CEO and founder Chelsea Rippy's home, Shade Clothing has quickly become the leading provider of hip, modest clothing. Its line of "essential" undershirts allows women to wear all the latest styles without feeling uncomfortable and uncovered. Shade offers strap camisoles, cap sleeve tees and baby tees in a variety of neutral, pastel and bright colors. Shirts can be purchased online at http://www.shadeclothing.com/, through Shade home parties or at several retail locations throughout Utah. For more information visit http://www.shadeclothing.com/.

Source: Shade Clothing

CONTACT: Chelsea Swett, chelsea.swett@sng.com, or Clayton Blackham,
clayton.blackham@sng.com, both of Snapp Norris Group, +1-801-208-1100, both
for Shade Clothing

Web site: http://www.shadeclothing.com/

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Profile: Fashion

PHOTO ADVISORY -- Ford Motor Company

2005-09-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

PHOTO ADVISORY -- Ford Motor Company

Editors are advised that a high-resolution photo is available to accompany the news release, NYTH164, 'Super Bowl Of Style' - New York's Fashion Week Receives A Fan-Friendly Event, issued on Sept. 1 by Ford Motor Company.

Caption: New York, NY - From the catwalk to the sidewalk - the Mercury Milan Style Squad gave New Yorkers the chance to look a bit more fashionable this weekend with complimentary makeup and hair consultations in Times Square, as part of the launch of the new 2006 Mercury Milan Sedan. (PRNewsFoto)

Members of the media may download the photo at no charge from the following online archives:

-- NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050910/NYSA026
-- AP Archive Topic Gallery: http://photoarchive.ap.org/

This photo is also available via the AP PhotoExpress Network, as PRN1.

For more information on the photo, or on gaining access to the archives, media may contact the PR Newswire Photo Desk at +1-888-776-6555 or +1-212-782-2840.

PRNewswire -- Sept. 10

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050910/NYSA026
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN1
PRN Photo Desk, +1-888-776-6555 or +1-212-782-2840

Source: Ford Motor Company

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Profile: Fashion

Katrina Shoe Relief - 'Million Pair March' Expands Nationwide

2005-09-10T11:54:00.000-07:00

Katrina Shoe Relief - 'Million Pair March' Expands Nationwide

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- The shoe drive to help Katrina victims expands across the country with people in multiple locations collecting shoes. "It is an awesome display of compassion, we have been contacted by schools, individuals and major companies wanting to serve the cause," said Joyell Dalton, manager of the "Million Pair March."

"The message is simple, we all have many shoes that we do not wear, collect them and send them to our consolidation locations in Nashville and we will get them to the hurting in the Katrina region," added Dalton.

The "Million Pair March" mirrors the same concept behind the recent Tsunami footwear drive earlier in 2005 that obtained over 150,000 pairs which was headed up by a long term footwear executive, Wayne Elsey. "The world is responding and making donations. The consolidation facilities in Nashville are opening on Monday and already have received donations by mail. We are prepared for the crowd that we will have and potentially will have people directing traffic, if needed," said Elsey.

To date, major footwear companies have pledged new footwear and hosiery for the cause. Birkenstock USA has forwarded over 7000 pairs of new socks for the cause. The pledges currently exceed 300,000 pairs and growing.

"Everyone can participate in this cause. Clean out your closets and donate new or slightly worn footwear to the march!" added Dalton. "We will ship product daily to the hard hurt areas for distribution," said Nelson Wilson, a local dentist heading up logistics and distribution.

"We need to offer hope to the hurting. As Rick Warren, author of The Purpose Driven Life recently said in a press conference, 'God never intended for you to go through life without assistance from others. We are created for community.' This drive clearly communicates the assistance that we are offering to our fellow man," added Elsey.

If you would like to learn more about what you can do or the shoe drive, check out http://www.katrinashoes.com/ or call our hotline at 615 406 9738.

Source: Katrinashoes.org

CONTACT: Angela Foglesong of Knot Limited for Katrinashoes.org,
+1-615-604-1879

Web site: http://www.katrinashoes.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Grand Forks Gap Employee Honored With Founders' Award

2005-09-09T17:04:00.000-07:00

Grand Forks Gap Employee Honored With Founders' Award

Sarah Heitkamp Wins International Gap Inc. Volunteerism Award for Work With Altru Cancer Center

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Gap Inc. announced today that Grand Forks, N.D., Gap Store Manager Sarah Heitkamp will receive the Gap Foundation's inaugural Founders' Award for her volunteer efforts with the Altru Cancer Center. Heitkamp will receive $50,000 and 80 hours of paid time off to fund and implement the "Filling the Gap" program, which will provide travel, lodging and nutrition assistance to low-income patients who travel to receive treatment at the Altru Cancer Center.

Heitkamp is receiving Gap Inc.'s first-ever Founders' Award -- created to honor the philanthropic spirit of Doris and Don Fisher who founded Gap in 1969 and established the Gap Foundation in 1977 as the charitable arm of Gap Inc.

Gap Inc. received more than 200 applications from employees across 40 states and in 10 countries for the first annual Founders' Award.

"Sarah's passion and dedication to the Altru Cancer Center demonstrates the difference one person can make in their community," said Paul Pressler, president and CEO of Gap Inc. "Her efforts -- along with the efforts of thousands of Gap Inc. employees like her -- embody the spirit of Gap's founders, Doris and Don Fisher."

Residents of rural communities often face the issue of traveling long distances to receive top quality health care, and patients of the Altru Cancer Center are no different. Many patients travel from hundreds of miles away to receive life-saving treatments because the necessary facilities do not exist in their local communities.

Heitkamp designed the Filling the Gap program after her mother, an oncology nurse, was diagnosed with cancer. Already a long time volunteer with the American Cancer Society, Heitkamp became more aware of the burdens patients face -- the high costs of travel, lodging and proper nutritional supplements -- during the course of her mother's treatment at Altru Cancer Center. She was inspired to find a way to ease those costs for low-income patients.

"There was no program in place to defray the financial costs for patients who need to travel from all over North Dakota to receive cancer treatment," said Sarah Heitkamp. "I am grateful to Gap for providing the resources to bring this program to life, and look forward to working with the amazing staff at Altru Cancer Center to implement the Filling the Gap program and lessen the financial burden and emotional stress of travel for the patients."

Heitkamp will use her 80 hours of paid time off to work with the cancer center staff to design a business plan for the Filling the Gap program, to train the program administrators and to build partnerships with community businesses. She has already secured several local partners who have agreed to provide the Filling the Gap program with wholesale pricing, including Parkwood Place housing center, local gas stations and a nutritional supplements company.

About Gap Foundation

Since 1976, Gap Foundation -- the charitable arm of Gap Inc. representing Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy -- has spearheaded the company's community involvement efforts through grants, in-kind donations, community outreach and employee volunteer programs. The Foundation primarily supports organizations focused on children, youth and families.

About Gap Inc.

Gap Inc. is a leading international specialty retailer offering clothing, accessories and personal care products for men, women, children and babies under the Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy and Forth & Towne brands. Fiscal 2004 sales were $16.3 billion. Gap Inc. operates about 3,000 stores in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France and Japan. For more information, please visit gapinc.com.

Contact:

Sarah Anderson
Gap Inc.
415-427-3458

Jaymie Gustafson
Zeno Group
202-965-7811

Source: Gap Inc.

CONTACT: Sarah Anderson of Gap Inc., +1-415-427-3458; or Jaymie
Gustafson of Zeno Group, +1-202-965-7811, for Gap Inc.

Web site: http://www.gapinc.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Avon to Present at Oppenheimer Business of Beauty, Health and Fitness Conference

2005-09-09T13:35:00.000-07:00

Avon to Present at Oppenheimer Business of Beauty, Health and Fitness Conference

NEW YORK, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Avon Products, Inc. (NYSE:AVP) will participate in Oppenheimer's Business of Beauty, Health and Fitness Conference in New York City on Tuesday, September 13, 2005. Elizabeth A. Smith, executive vice president, president North America and global brand president, will present on behalf of the company.

Oppenheimer is scheduled to provide a live webcast of the presentation at 12:25 p.m. Eastern time. Those wishing to access the webcast can obtain instructions for doing so from the Avon Investor website, http://www.avoninvestor.com/. The webcast will be archived at that site for two weeks.

Avon is the world's leading direct seller of beauty and related products, with $7.7 billion in annual revenues. Avon markets to women around the world through 4.9 million independent sales Representatives. Avon product lines include such recognizable brand names as Avon Color, Anew, Skin-So-Soft, Avon Solutions, Advance Techniques Hair Care, Avon Naturals, Mark and Avon Wellness. Avon also markets an extensive line of fashion jewelry and apparel. More information about Avon and its products can be found on the company's web site http://www.avoncompany.com/.

Source: Avon Products, Inc.

CONTACT: Renee Johansen or Rob Foresti, +1-212-282-5320, both of Avon
Products, Inc.

Web site: http://www.avon.com/
http://www.avoninvestor.com/
http://www.avoncompany.com/

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/079575.html

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Profile: Fashion

Ghurka Appoints Designer John Bartlett as Creative Director

2005-09-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Ghurka Appoints Designer John Bartlett as Creative Director

NEW YORK, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Ghurka, the 30 year-old American luxury brand specializing in handcrafted leather goods and accessories, announced today that designer John Bartlett has been appointed as Creative Director. Ghurka is managed by the Luxury Division of Accessory Network Group (ANG), which also holds the license for Calvin Klein's accessories. Reporting to Rosemary Martinek, General Manager and Senior Vice President of ANG's Luxury Division, Bartlett will oversee all aspects of product design for Ghurka men's and women's accessories as well as the overall image of the brand, including advertising, creative collateral and retail merchandising. Designers Management Agency (DMA) represented John Bartlett in this transaction.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050909/NYF113 )

"John Bartlett has always been inspired by all things American. It was important for us to find a designer who would understand and build upon the rich heritage of Ghurka to create a modern interpretation of this classic brand," says Abe Chehebar, CEO of ANG. "John's creative vision will allow us to continue our current growth while positioning Ghurka into a true lifestyle brand, with expansion into new categories."

"Ever since my days at Harvard in the 80's, I have been obsessed with Ghurka bags. They are the epitome of East Coast chic and one of the few original American brands that have maintained an authentic voice," says Bartlett. "Abe Chehebar and Ken Landis could not be better partners for this endeavor and I am certain that Ghurka will soon be THE luxury brand on the global scene."

Marc Beckman, President and Co-owner of DMA says, "John Bartlett's firm understanding of American design and luxury goods makes him the perfect Creative Director for Ghurka. His vast experience in both the men's and women's categories will provide the brand with the tools for profitable growth in the accessories sector and beyond."

Bartlett launched his eponymous label in 1992 which was sold at Bergdorf Goodman and Barneys. In 1994, Bartlett received the C.F.D.A. Perry Ellis Award for Best New Designer, the first time it was bestowed on a menswear designer. In the late 90's, Bartlett became the Creative Director of Byblos S.P.A., the 90 million dollar global brand. In 1997, Bartlett received his second C.F.D.A. Award for Menswear Designer of the Year. In 2004, Bartlett launched a new collection of tailored clothing, dress shirts, neckwear and accessories for the American working man which lead to another nomination for the 2005 C.F.D.A. Award for Menswear Designer of the Year.

About Ghurka

Founded in 1975 in Norwalk, CT, the Ghurka brand is part of the Luxury Division of Accessory Network Group, America's premier source of branded and private label accessories to retailers throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. Ghurka has three retail stores located in New York, San Francisco and Chicago as well as fine specialty stores across the U.S. and http://www.ghurka.com/.

About Designers Management Agency (DMA)

Designers Management Agency provides talent representation services for luxury fashion designers globally and fashion-based business solutions for Fortune 500 companies. A sampling of DMA's clientele includes Melania Trump, Miramax, Jones Apparel Group, QVC, Alice Roi, Imitation of Christ and As Four. DMA was founded by Marc Beckman and Sam Sohaili in 2003 and is located in New York City, New York.

Press Contact: Celia Chen, VP of Communications, Ghurka
212-842-3154
cchen@ghurka.com

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050909/NYF113
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Ghurka

CONTACT: Press Contact - Celia Chen, VP of Communications for Ghurka,
+1-212-842-3154, cchen@ghurka.com

Web site: http://www.ghurka.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Change in Retail Environment Steering Cosmetics and Toiletries Market in China

2005-09-09T10:55:00.000-07:00

Change in Retail Environment Steering Cosmetics and Toiletries Market in China

LITTLE FALLS, N.J., Sept. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- China's booming economy, a shift in consumer attitudes, and a dynamic retailer landscape have all contributed to the country's double-digit growth in the cosmetics and toiletries market in the past year.

According to business consulting and market research firm Kline & Company, the C&T market in China increased 13% from 2003 to 2004, and China's share of the $147.4 billion C&T market worldwide was $7.1 billion at the manufacturers' level, accounting for nearly 5% of total sales.

"China's share of the global C&T market may seem small compared to huge markets like the U.S. and Japan, but with a population of over a billion people, the growth potential there is staggering," says Lenka Contreras, vice president and head of the Consumer Products practice for Kline's research division.

According to the China volume of GLOBAL COSMETICS & TOILETRIES 2004, to be published soon by Kline, skin care and makeup products account for the largest share of the C&T market with 31% and 11% of the market, respectively. Contreras says these categories have a huge potential for further increases in sales.

Currently, 80% of C&T sales are through hypermarkets and mass merchandisers. Initial findings from Kline's newly proposed study, BEAUTY RETAILING CHINA 2005, indicate that this channel is quickly losing ground to specialty stores based outside of mainland China, such as Watson's and SaSa.

Specialty chains are expected to grab a bigger piece of the business due to several market drivers. Contreras says more Chinese women are interested in enhancing their appearance and now have the disposable income to purchase beauty products. In addition, many retail stores have exceptional customer service behind the counter, which helps augment sales.

"Service at retail outlets in China is really amazing, and it is delivered at every type of channel, even at the mass level," Contreras says. "This encourages more women to buy products and helps them make more informed decisions about their purchases."

Consumer interest in beauty products has undoubtedly progressed in China. It was not long ago that Chinese women were restricted from using makeup and fragrances, due to anti-capitalist reforms imposed by Mao Zedong's Communist regime. As a result, local companies didn't invest in the beauty industry, leaving the multinationals, which were already on the ground in China in other businesses, poised to take a big chunk of the developing market.

"It's difficult for local companies to gain market share because the MNCs are already entrenched, making it tough for local companies to compete. But regional suppliers like Shiseido and LG Household and Health Care are entering the business and finding their niche," Contreras says.

While local and regional companies chase their larger competitors, the Chinese government recently made it a bit harder for them to keep up the pace.

Earlier this month, Beijing granted Avon the right to sell directly in China through a pilot program. Legislation enacted in 1998 that banned pyramid selling, which the government could not distinguish from direct selling, had prevented Avon from selling products through its traditional route. Instead, Avon established its brand in China using boutiques to market its products instead of direct sales.

"The change in the government's policy will help Avon to re-establish itself with wider distribution and penetrate the rural areas that the recent boom in sales hasn't reached yet," says David Vladyka, head of Kline's Consumer Products consulting practice.

Kline's proposed market study, BEAUTY RETAILING CHINA 2005, will examine the changing retail environment for 14 categories of cosmetics and toiletries in China, including the potential of new retailers and formats entering the market. The report will provide key insights on the distribution channels for cosmetics and toiletries in major cities and rural areas, and will include profiles of approximately 10 key retailers in the region.

As a featured presenter next week at Cosmeeting Conferences 2005 in Paris, France, Lenka Contreras will discuss the intricate dynamics of becoming a player in China's beauty business in a seminar titled "The Beauty Market in China." Coordinated with the French Federation of Fragrance, Cosmetics, & Toiletries, Contreras will deliver her presentation on September 12.

Kline's GLOBAL COSMETICS & TOILETRIES 2004 presents sales data for 16 countries, including China, with more than 400 product category profiles, including sales value by product type and brand, retail outlet distribution, and five-year forecasts. The study is based on data collected from approximately 1,000 interviews with cosmetic and toiletry marketers, distributors, and retailers, as well as government agencies and trade organizations.

For more information on either study, contact Lenka Contreras at 973-435-3407 or lenka_contreras@klinegroup.com. In Europe, contact Pilar Pardo at (0) 2 776 0737 or pilar.pardo@kline-europe.com. In Asia, contact Li Wang at 21 5382 6677 or li.wang@kline-asia.com.

To learn more about Kline's customized consulting capabilities for the consumer products industry, contact David Vladyka at 973-435-3402 or david_vladyka@klinegroup.com.

Established in 1959, Kline & Company (http://www.klinegroup.com/) is an international business consulting and market research firm serving clients worldwide in the consumer products, specialty chemicals, life sciences, and energy industries.

For more information, contact:
Lenka Contreras
Vice President, Kline Research
973-435-3407
lenka_contreras@klinegroup.com

Source: Kline & Company

CONTACT: Lenka Contreras, Vice President of Kline Research,
+1-973-435-3407, lenka_contreras@klinegroup.com

Web site: http://www.klinegroup.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Gap Inc. Honors Employees in First-Ever 'Founders' Award'

2005-09-09T10:33:00.000-07:00

Gap Inc. Honors Employees in First-Ever 'Founders' Award'

Sarah Heitkamp Wins International Volunteerism Award for Work With Altru Cancer center in North Dakota; Sal Aguilerra Named Runner-Up for Work with Tijuana City Dump

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Gap Inc. announced today that Grand Forks, N.D., Gap Store Manager Sarah Heitkamp and San Diego Gap Associate Manager Sal Aguilerra were each honored with the company's inaugural Founders' Award for their volunteer efforts.

Heitkamp and Aguilerra are receiving Gap Inc.'s first-ever Founders' Award -- created to honor the philanthropic spirit of Doris and Don Fisher, who founded Gap in 1969 and established the Gap Foundation in 1977 as the charitable arm of Gap Inc.

Gap Inc. received more than 200 applications from employees across 40 states and in 10 countries for the first annual Founders' Award.

Heitkamp's first place award earns her $50,000 and 80 hours of paid time off to fund and implement the "Filling the Gap" program, which will provide travel, lodging and nutrition assistance to low income patients who travel to receive treatment at the Altru Cancer Center in Grand Forks, N.D. As runner- up, Aguilerra will receive a $20,000 grant and 80 hours of paid time off to volunteer for the Responsibility organization -- a program dedicated to providing education to children who, with their families, live in the Tijuana City Dump.

"Over the past 36 years, Doris and Don Fisher have cultivated a spirit of volunteerism and social responsibility that's still very much a part of our company's culture today," said Paul Pressler, president and CEO of Gap Inc. "I'm pleased to award Sarah and Sal with this award. Their passion and dedication to their communities demonstrate the difference one person can make."

Altru Cancer Center: Grand Forks, North Dakota

Responsibility Project: Tijuana, Mexico

Responsibility, a 25-year-old organization, runs a school and clinic for the children of the Tijuana City Dump, where adults and children live and recycle materials to support their families. The Founders' Award grant money will allow the program to make two part-time teachers full time, allowing for smaller class sizes and more students.

Aguilerra and the San Diego district Gap stores have a year-long relationship with the Responsibility program. They adopted the Responsibility program as the district's community partner last holiday season, raising enough money and supplies to provide a year's schooling to 29 children. Aguilerra will use his paid time off to work with Responsibility on construction projects, assist the teachers and interact with the students.

"We were so impressed with the work the Responsibility program was doing with the children of the Tijuana City Dump," said Sal Aguilerra. "I am pleased that, with the help of the Gap Foundation, we are able to help the program bring two teachers to full time status and provide a better learning environment for these children."

About Gap Foundation

About Gap Inc.

Contact:

Sarah Anderson
Gap Inc.
415-427-3458

Jaymie Gustafson
Zeno Group
202-965-7811

Source: Gap Inc.

CONTACT: Sarah Anderson of Gap Inc., +1-415-427-3458; or Jaymie
Gustafson of Zeno Group, +1-202-965-7811, for Gap Inc.

Web site: http://www.gapinc.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Grand Forks Gap Employee Honored With Founders' Award

2005-09-09T10:32:00.000-07:00

Grand Forks Gap Employee Honored With Founders' Award

Sarah Heitkamp Wins International Gap Inc. Volunteerism Award for Work with Altru Cancer Center

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Gap Inc. announced today that Grand Forks, N.D., Gap Store Manager Sarah Heitkamp will receive the Gap Foundation's inaugural Founders' Award for her volunteer efforts with the Altru Cancer Center. Heitkamp will receive $50,000 and 80 hours of paid time off to fund and implement the "Filling the Gap" program, which will provide travel, lodging and nutrition assistance to low income patients who travel to receive treatment at the Altru Cancer Center.

Gap Inc. received more than 200 applications from employees across 40 states and in 10 countries for the first annual Founders' Award.

About Gap Foundation

About Gap Inc.

Contact:

Sarah Anderson
Gap Inc.
415-427-3458

Jaymie Gustafson
Zeno Group
202-965-7811

Source: Gap Inc.

CONTACT: Sarah Anderson of Gap Inc., +1-415-427-3458; or Jaymie
Gustafson of Zeno Group, +1-202-965-7811, for Gap Inc.

Web site: http://www.gapinc.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Newly Re-Designed Gap Stores Open in San Diego

2005-09-09T10:07:00.000-07:00

Newly Re-Designed Gap Stores Open in San Diego

San Diego Customers Will Experience New Store Design and Enhanced Customer
Experience

WHAT: This fall, Gap is re-introducing its San Diego area stores,
which have undergone a complete transformation. The new store
design and revamped shopping experience are part of the ongoing
evolution of the Gap brand. From style consultants to enhanced
customer attention, Gap has created a more personal shopping
experience for San Diego customers.

To celebrate the changing face of Gap in San Diego, Gap is
giving away baseball tickets for the San Diego Padres game
against the Washington Nationals on September 18 at Petco Park.
The morning of September 10, the first 100 customers at the
Fashion Valley and Girard Avenue Gap locations will receive two
tickets for the Padres baseball game on September 18.

WHY: Gap stores throughout the San Diego area have undergone
remodeling during the past several months. To thank San Diego
customers for their patience while stores were being remodeled
and to celebrate the store re-openings, Gap wanted to do
something special for local residents.

WHEN: Gap recently re-opened two stores at Fashion Valley and Girard
Avenue. This Saturday, September 10 at 10 am both stores will be
giving away Padres baseball tickets to their first 100
customers.

WHERE: The first 100 customers to visit each of the two locations below
on September 10 will receive a pair of tickets for the Padres
baseball game on September 18:

Fashion Valley, San Diego, CA
Girard Avenue, La Jolla, CA

The following Gap locations will re-open in October and
November:

North Country Fair, Escondido, CA
Horton Plaza, San Diego, CA

CONTACT: Katie Molinari
Gap PR, 415.427.3989, or Katie_molinari@gap.com

PRNewswire -- Sept. 9

Source: Gap

Web site: http://www.gapinc.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Claire's Stores, Inc. to Present at Susquehanna International Group and CL King Investor Conferences in September

2005-09-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

Claire's Stores, Inc. to Present at Susquehanna International Group and CL King Investor Conferences in September

PEMBROKE PINES, Fla., Sept. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Claire's Stores, Inc. (NYSE:CLE) is scheduled to participate in the SIG Retail Focus Forum on September 15, 2005 and the CL King Best Ideas Conference on September 20, 2005. Presenting at both conferences will be Co-Chairman of the Board and Co- Chief Executive Officer Marla Schaefer and Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Ira Kaplan.

A live webcast of the SIG conference will be available at http://www.wsw.com/webcast/sig/cle/ and archived seven days for all interested parties.

Company Overview:

Claire's Stores, Inc., is a leading international specialty retailer offering value-priced costume jewelry and accessories to fashion-aware tweens, teens and young adults through its two store concepts: Claire's and Icing by Claire's. While the latter operates only in North America, Claire's operates internationally. As of August 27th, 2005, Claire's Stores, Inc. operated approximately 2,855 stores in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Switzerland, Austria, Germany and Spain. Claire's Stores, Inc. also operates through its subsidiary, Claire's Nippon, Co., Ltd., 166 stores in Japan as a 50:50 joint venture with AEON, Co., Ltd. (fka JUSCO, Co. Ltd.), a $40 billion specialty retailer headquartered in Japan. The Company also operates 72 stores in the Middle East and Turkey under a licensing and merchandising agreement with Al Shaya Co., Ltd. and six stores in South Africa under similar agreements with The House of Busby Limited.

Source: Claire's Stores, Inc.

CONTACT: Marisa Jacobs, Vice President of Corporate Communications &
Investor Relations, Claire's Stores, Inc., Phone: +1-212-594-3127,
Fax: +1-212-244-4237 or E-mail: marisa.jacobs@claires.com

Web site: http://www.clairestores.com/
http://www.wsw.com/webcast/sig/cle/

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/174913.html

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Profile: Fashion

Warning - System Overload! Boots Detox at NY Fashion Week

2005-09-09T07:36:00.000-07:00

Warning - System Overload! Boots Detox at NY Fashion Week

Boots gives stress ravaged New Yorkers a boost with samples of its Detox Total Body Cleanse at NY Fashion Week

NEW YORK, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- The frenetic fashion week pace: running between shows, poor eating schedules & choices and alcohol intake at the endless events can strain your system, dulling the appearance of your skin, hair & eyes. Counteract the effects of these stressors with daily visits to the Boots Detox teams surrounding Bryant Park during Fashion Week to replenish and refresh your system from the inside out with Boots' natural antioxidant elixir.

Detox was developed by Boots to offer solutions that work in harmony with your body for those times when you feel sluggish, tired or just need revitalizing. The Detox collection pampers too -- putting back what stress often takes out. Just like the rest of us, you probably don't have the 100% healthy lifestyle you'd like. Stress, pollutants, smoke, even over indulgence of fast foods or alcohol -- i.e. 21st century living - contributes to the build up of impurities in our bodies. As you flush them out you could see clearer skin, brighter eyes and shinier hair. But most importantly, you'll feel like new, as your energy levels soar. See for yourself...

WHAT: Sampling of Boots Detox Total Body Cleanse, an antioxidant rich
tonic that works in harmony with your body to refresh and
revitalize from the inside out.

WHEN: September 12 - September 16
12 PM - 5 PM

WHERE: 6th avenue at 40th and 42nd streets

More About Boots...

For 150 years, The Boots Company has been dedicated to creating products that not only enhance beauty, but also promote health, beauty, and wellbeing. With 1,500 stores and many celebrated house brands, Boots is one of Britain's largest health and beauty companies and most-trusted manufacturers of health and beauty products. In the United States, customers can experience the British Aisle and discover Boots' delightful range of products at Target(R) locations in the Washington DC metro area, Denver, Dallas, San Francisco Bay area, Minneapolis, and the greater New York Metropolitan area.

All brands within the Boots collection have been created for you by Boots, Britain's leading name in health, beauty and wellbeing. Across the world, women come back to Boots time and time again for the company's renowned commitment to innovation and to helping women to look great and feel fabulous, inside and out.

Source: The Boots Company

CONTACT: Jackie Lann of Pam Bristow LLC, +1-212-625-3232, ext. 6621,
jackie@pambristow.com

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Profile: Fashion

Nokia and Duckie Brown Join Forces to Benefit Up-and-Coming Designers

2005-09-09T06:11:00.000-07:00

Nokia and Duckie Brown Join Forces to Benefit Up-and-Coming Designers

-Duckie Brown/Nokia Scholarship to Benefit Design Students at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology-

-Limited Edition Duckie Brown Nokia 8801s to Be Auctioned on eBay With Proceeds Going to Scholarship Fund-

IRVING, Texas and NEW YORK, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- During New York Fashion Week, Nokia (NYSE:NOK), the world's leading mobile phone maker, and critically acclaimed menswear design house Duckie Brown are coming together to benefit the next generation of designers with the establishment of the Duckie Brown/Nokia menswear design scholarship at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology. In a break from tradition, Nokia and Duckie Brown are eschewing the lavish gift bags often given to guests at fashion shows, and are making donations to the scholarship fund in the names of the attendees.

Additionally, five exclusive Nokia 8801 phones -- complete with Duckie Brown's signature "Cock and Crown" emblem etched into the phone's stainless steel cover and a Duckie Brown pocket protector -- like those being used in the fashion show -- are being auctioned on eBay to raise additional funds for the Duckie Brown/Nokia menswear design scholarship. The auction begins on Saturday, September 10th and will run through the duration of New York Fashion Week, ending on Saturday, September 17th. All proceeds from the auctions will go towards the scholarship fund.

"Although working in very different areas, both Duckie Brown and Nokia are driven to break new ground in their respective design fields. This scholarship is a small way that we can work together to help ensure a bright future for the next generation of menswear designers," said Daniel Silver of Duckie Brown. "We look forward to the evening of September 9th, both for the unveiling of our Spring 2006 collection and the launch of this unique program with Nokia and the Fashion Institute of Technology."

Launched earlier this year, the premium Nokia 8801 phone has been often heralded as an icon of exquisite design and exclusivity. Featuring a slim stainless steel body, the Nokia 8801 phone glides open to reveal a number of distinctive details, each meticulously considered and researched to complement the prestige and quality of the device. Further evidence of this attention to detail is the exclusive audio accompaniment of the Nokia 8801 phone, which includes all ring tones and alerts bearing the mark of award-winning composer Ryuichi Sakamoto.

"As a global corporate citizen, Nokia strives to help young people create their own unique place in the world, which makes it a pleasure to help support the exceptional work that FIT does preparing its students for the world of design," said Ketrina Dunagan, director of Nokia's focused appeal business line. "The designers that get their start at institutions like FIT will literally shape the future -- whether working for a major corporation like Nokia or as part of a small, influential label like Duckie Brown."

The Fashion Institute of Technology, also known as FIT, is part of the State University of New York. Since opening its doors in New York City in 1944, FIT's mission has been to prepare students for professional excellence in design, fashion, and business by providing the premier educational experience that fosters creativity, career focus, and a global perspective. Today, over 10,000 students major in more than 30 subjects at FIT's eight- building campus.

"We're pleased that Duckie Brown and Nokia are using their collaboration during this year's Fashion Week to benefit deserving design students at FIT," said Mark-Evan Blackman the chairperson of Menswear Design for the Fashion Institute of Technology. "Both Nokia and Duckie Brown are highly respected for their groundbreaking designs in technology and menswear respectively. Their shared commitment to excellence in design makes them a perfect match with the founding ideals of FIT."

About Nokia

Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. http://www.nokia.com/

About FIT

The Fashion Institute of Technology is a college of art and design, business and technology of the State University of New York, with more than 30 majors leading to the AAS, BFA, BS, MA, and MPS degrees. Last year, The Unofficial, Unbiased Guide to the 328 Most Interesting Colleges, issued by Kaplan, listed FIT, saying, "FIT gives you elite Seventh Avenue connections and conservatory-type training at a public school price."

Contact:
Nokia Americas
Media Relations
972-894-4573
communication.corp@nokia.com

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040130/NOKIALOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Nokia

CONTACT: Media Relations of Nokia Americas, +1-972-894-4573, or
communication.corp@nokia.com

Web site: http://www.nokia.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Pantene Celebrity Stylist Danilo Chosen to Shape the Looks at Runway Debut of LAMB

2005-09-09T05:12:00.000-07:00

Pantene Celebrity Stylist Danilo Chosen to Shape the Looks at Runway Debut of LAMB

NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2005 /PRNewswire/ -- Pantene will play a pivotal role backstage as the exclusive hair sponsor of the hottest fashion show of the season: LAMB at Roseland Ballroom in New York City on September 16, 2005 at 8:00 PM. Gwen Stefani, the creator and founder of L.A.M.B., invited Pantene Celebrity Stylist Danilo, her longtime hair stylist, to conceptualize hairstyles for the Spring 2006 LAMB runway show.

"Danilo is not only one of my closest friends, he's also one of the most creative, talented hairstylists in the world and it's a dream come true to have him doing my show," said Stefani, a style icon recently chosen as "Best Dressed" at this year's MTV Video Music Awards.

Several of the world's most influential celebrities have called on Danilo to create their distinctive styles. Renowned for his artistic flair, Danilo's trend-setting and masterful work has been spotted everywhere from fashion runways to high profile ad campaigns to the covers of some of the most recognized magazines in the world.

Danilo and his team of assistants will utilize styling products from the Pantene line to create unforgettable styles that complement the tone and texture of the new LAMB collection.

Source: Pantene

CONTACT: Nicole Currie, +1-212-891-0452, ncurrie@devries-pr.com, or
Sheila Munguia, +1-212-891-0498, smunguia@devries-pr.com, both of DeVries
Public Relations for Pantene

Note to Editors: To schedule an interview with Danilo or for information and visuals on the hair trends featured this season, please contact DeVries Public Relations, Nicole Currie, 212-891-0452/ncurrie@devries-pr.com; Sheila Munguia, 212-891-0498, smunguia@devries-pr.com.

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Profile: Fashion

New York's Olympus Fashion Week Selects Pantene as the Exclusive Hair Sponsor

2005-09-09T05:10:00.000-07:00

New York's Olympus Fashion Week Selects Pantene as the Exclusive Hair Sponsor

- Pantene Celebrity Stylists Shape Looks at Bryant Park Tents in September -

CINCINNATI, Sept. 9, 2005 /PRNewswire/ -- First there was the Pucci scarf, then the Botkier handbag, but this season the most talked about accessory is easy to achieve and won't break your bank -- it's stylishly healthy hair! Pantene, as the "Exclusive Hair Sponsor" of New York's Olympus Fashion Week, will bring the season's hottest styles and hair trends to women everywhere.

"As the fashion industry's premier event, Olympus New York Fashion Week is revered for dramatically shaping beauty and fashion trends," said Rick Hasselbeck, Associate Marketing Director for Pantene. "Pantene is proud to have been tapped to be a sponsor by such a respected style property."

Fashion Week a Reality for Lucky Winners

Pantene is making the excitement of the runways at Olympus Fashion Week a reality for a lucky few:

- From September 1, 2005 to January 5, 2006, Pantene is holding a national
sweepstakes for the chance to win a VIP trip to New York's Olympus
Fashion Week in February 2006. One grand prize winner will receive
exclusive tickets and VIP access to a Pantene runway show, as well as a
three day, two night trip to New York for themselves and two guests
including airfare, hotel and spending money. To enter or for additional
details, visit www.pantene.com.
- Starting September 1, working hair stylists are invited to enter
Pantene's national styling competition. One grand prize winner will win
the opportunity to work with some of the industry's hottest stylists at
New York's Olympus Fashion Week in February 2006 and will also receive
exclusive tickets and VIP access to a Pantene runway show. Pantene will
fly the winner and one guest to New York, and provide hotel
accommodations and spending money. Applications and additional details
are available at http://www.pantene.com/.

Enjoying the Experience at Bryant Park

Those attending the runway shows and mingling in the Bryant Park tents can share in the Pantene hair experience at the dedicated "Pantene Pavilion", where attendees can receive one-on-one hair consultations with celebrity stylists and enjoy customized Pantene product gift bags.

About P&G (NYSE:PG)

Two billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality leadership brands, including Pampers(R), Tide(R), Ariel(R), Always(R), Whisper(R), Pantene(R), Bounty(R), Pringles(R), Folgers(R), Charmin(R), Downy(R), Lenor(R), Iams(R), Crest(R), Actonel(R), Olay(R), Nice 'n Easy(R), Head & Shoulders(R), and Wella. The P&G community consists of almost 110,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.

Source: Procter & Gamble

CONTACT: Sheila Munguia, DeVries Public Relations, +1-212-891-0498,
smunguia@devries-pr.com

Web site: http://www.pantene.com/
http://www.pg.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Largest Green Business Directory in Northern California Online Friday: Highlights Players in Massive Regional Economic Growth

2005-09-09T02:22:00.000-07:00

Largest Green Business Directory in Northern California Online Friday: Highlights Players in Massive Regional Economic Growth

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- SustainLane (www.sustainlane.com) announced today it is pulling out The SLED (SustainLane E-Directory) Friday, the largest online directory of Northern Californian businesses catering to the rapidly growing multi-billion dollar regional marketplace for healthy and sustainable products and services. SustainLane is the first internet media site for identifying, educating and enabling the broad marketplace for healthy and sustainable living.

"Sustainability is important not only for protecting citizens' health and ensuring a great quality of life here in San Francisco, but also for boosting the local economy with jobs and services in everything from clean technologies to fresh food and green building products produced in California," said San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom (first place sustainable city recipient in SustainLane's 2005 US City Awards presented at the UN World Environment Day in June).

"The Northern California SLED grew out of our own interest in locating local businesses that offer healthy alternatives such as non-toxic dry cleaning, restaurants that serve organic whole foods, merchants who provide cleaner choices for our clothing and home furnishings, and all businesses that support our efforts to live better now," said James Elsen, CEO of SustainLane. "The national trends clearly support an exponential growth in these more intelligent establishments that have their eye on the future in terms of energy use, toxin avoidance, and better health and well-being for all. At SustainLane we are very encouraged by the sheer number of recent entries into this marketplace, and want to enable the Northern Californian resident to easily locate their local vendor of choice. These businesses will surely be key drivers of vibrant regional economies around our nation in the coming decade and beyond."

Introducing the Northern California SLED (SustainLane E-Directory)

SustainLane, the first Internet media site ( http://www.sustainlane.com/ ) for educating, inspiring and enabling healthy sustainable living across all consumer categories, is serving the Northern Californian market with this valuable resource for green living. The SLED is the first regional directory to offer expert editorial guidance alongside a comprehensive business listing of nearly 1,000 local establishments that cater to those seeking healthy alternatives aimed at living better now. The SLED's categories include Home (green building, home office, energy, cleaning, furniture, lawn and garden); Family (baby, kids, clothing, travel); Food and Beverages (restaurants, markets, products, wineries); Money (working, investing, donating, real estate); Getting Around (commuting, hybrids, biodiesel, fuel efficient vehicles, bicycles); and Well Being (personal care, healthcare, fitness, spirit and self). SustainLane.com plans to roll out future SLEDs for other leading U.S. regions throughout 2006.

About SustainLane

SustainLane is a privately funded, non-partisan San Francisco based start-up. Launched in June of this year, SustainLane ( http://www.sustainlane.com/ ) is fast becoming the trusted single-point Internet media destination for education, resources, and community members interested in living a healthier and more sustainable life. The user community is turning to SustainLane to cut through the overwhelming, non-categorized data available through generic search engines like Google. SustainLane target users are the influential LOHAS audience (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability: a $238+ billion market annually) who desire a focused horizontal search and affiliation community based on their precise psychographics, versus generic horizontal search and/or broad online communities such as Yahoo. SustainLane.com is meeting the challenging demands of the LOHAS market sector by providing people with easily accessible knowledge that is categorized as it relates to their lives. SustainLane's goal: to inspire and enable people to live better now.

Leaders in Sustainability Speak Out for SustainLane.com

"We know how to solve the problems facing humanity, yet we seem to prefer to remain confronted by insurmountable opportunities. Part of the challenge is that there is a lack of the cross-sector and interdisciplinary exchange necessary to solve complex system problems. SustainLane.com's approach of creating just this type of sharing mechanism as part of its vibrant online community has important implications for helping the sustainability movement to scale up quickly," said Hunter Lovins, President of Natural Capitalism, Inc. and Co-author of best-selling Natural Capitalism (with Paul Hawken and Amory Lovins).

According to author Ray Anderson, Founder and Chairman of Interface Corporation, "There is a well-known adage, that for a network to work, it first must 'net.' SustainLane is a monumental effort to launch such an online 'netting' for the entire sustainability community. Well done, SustainLane!" Anderson was former Co-Chairman of the President's Council on Sustainable Development and is an icon in the green business revolution, dropping hundreds of millions of dollars from Interface's operational expenses while shifting to cleaner methods of manufacturing and developing healthier products for its growing customer base.

SustainLane.com will be at Booth #335 at the San Francisco Sierra Summit (Moscone Center), Friday, September 9 and Saturday, September 10.

NOTE: SustainLane is a registered trademark of SustainableCircles Corp. All other names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Media Contact:
Warren Karlenzig, Chief Strategy Officer, SustainLane
warren@sustainlane.com, 415-518-7575

Source: SustainLane

CONTACT: Warren Karlenzig, Chief Strategy Officer of SustainLane,
+1-415-518-7575, or warren@sustainlane.com

Web site: http://www.sustainlane.com/

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Profile: Fashion

'Million Pair March' Katrina Footwear Drive Has 200 Thousand Pairs Pledged Day 1

2005-09-08T20:44:00.000-07:00

'Million Pair March' Katrina Footwear Drive Has 200 Thousand Pairs Pledged Day 1

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- New footwear is rolling in for the hard hurt Katrina victims. "Our first day of pledges exceeded 200 thousand new pairs that will be distributed in various parts of the hard hurt area," said Joyell Dalton, Manager of the relief effort - "Million Pair March."

"It is truly awesome to see the display of compassion from the footwear industry and individuals nationwide," said Wayne Elsey, President Kodiak- Terra, USA Inc. "The challenge is now for everyone of us to search our hearts and closets donating any extra footwear we might have," added Elsey.

Earlier this year, Elsey organized a team of folks that shipped over 150,000 pairs of shoes to the hard hurt Tsunami victims. "We want to exceed a million pairs collected. This is a dynamic number to look back on. People are in great distress, hurt and just heart broken about their loss. I challenge you to send your extra shoes to the event so we can get them to the hurting," said Dalton.

"It is all about offering hope. We all are real people, living in a real world. Hope is what it is all about, something as simple as a pair of shoes can offer the hope needed," added Elsey.

You can learn more about the "Million Pair March" by visiting http://www.katrinashoes.org/ or call the hotline at 615 406 9738.

Source: Katrinashoes.org

CONTACT: Angela Foglesong of Knot Limited, +1-615-604-1879, for
Katrinashoes.org

Web site: http://www.katrinashoes.org/

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Profile: Fashion

Stephen L. Ruzow Named President of Kellwood's Calvin Klein Women's Better Sportswear Division

2005-09-08T13:15:00.001-07:00

Stephen L. Ruzow Named President of Kellwood's Calvin Klein Women's Better Sportswear Division

NEW YORK, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Kellwood Company named Stephen L. Ruzow president of its Calvin Klein women's better sportswear division according to Robert C. Skinner, Jr., Kellwood president and chief executive officer. This follows the earlier announcement today concerning Kellwood's agreement to purchase G.A.V.'s interests in Calvin Klein women's better sportswear business. Under a services agreement, G.A.V. had managed Calvin Klein women's better sportswear as a business venture with Kellwood. Calvin Klein women's better sportswear collection is produced under a licensing agreement with Calvin Klein, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation.

The end to this arrangement is the result of G.A.V.'s intention to focus on its other businesses, including its ck Calvin Klein bridge sportswear line, which have been expanding over the last two years, and Kellwood's plans to concentrate its efforts on Calvin Klein women's better sportswear.

"Due to the importance of our Calvin Klein women's better sportswear business and the tremendous potential we believe it represents, Steve will forego all of his other Kellwood responsibilities to concentrate 100 percent on Calvin Klein. Steve is uniquely qualified to drive Calvin Klein women's better sportswear to greater levels of success based on his experience at Donna Karan International in building the brand and its business during his tenure as president and chief operating officer, and in running various Calvin Klein licensed businesses," said Skinner. Prior to being named president of Calvin Klein women's better sportswear, Ruzow was president of Kellwood Womenswear, a post he had held since joining the Company in October 2001.

"Calvin Klein is the number one designer brand in the fashion industry, and I am excited to be at the helm of this important Kellwood division. Today's woman wants designer brands that are within her reach. Calvin Klein offers the consumer a fresh point of view that no one else is doing in the better arena with its line of modern, affordable luxury. This is the perfect time for us to capture market share and this aspirational consumer," said Ruzow.

Said Tom Murry, President & COO of Calvin Klein, Inc., "We have confidence in Stephen Ruzow and the rest of the Kellwood management team and look forward to working closely with them to grow the Calvin Klein women's better sportswear business."

ABOUT KELLWOOD

Kellwood (NYSE:KWD), is a $2 billion marketer of apparel and consumer soft goods, specializes in branded as well as private label products, and markets to all channels of distribution with product specific to a particular channel. For more information, visit http://www.kellwood.com/ .

Source: Kellwood Company

CONTACT: Donna Weaver of Kellwood Company, +1-212-329-8072,
donna.weaver@kellwood.com

Web site: http://www.kellwood.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Kellwood and G.A.V. End Calvin Klein Women's Better Sportswear Services Agreement

2005-09-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

Kellwood and G.A.V. End Calvin Klein Women's Better Sportswear Services Agreement

Kellwood to Produce Sportswear Line on Its Own

NEW YORK, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Kellwood Company announced today it has agreed to purchase G.A.V.'s interests in the Calvin Klein women's better sportswear business, according to Robert C. Skinner, Jr., Kellwood president and chief executive officer. This ends the services agreement whereby G.A.V. managed Calvin Klein women's better sportswear as a business venture with Kellwood. The Calvin Klein women's better sportswear collection is produced by Kellwood under a license agreement with Calvin Klein, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation.

This separation is the result of G.A.V.'s intention to focus on its other apparel businesses, including its ck Calvin Klein bridge sportswear line, which have been expanding over the last two years, and Kellwood's plans to concentrate its efforts on Calvin Klein women's better sportswear.

"We are most appreciative of G.A.V.'s efforts in helping Kellwood launch the Calvin Klein women's better sportswear business and wish them much success with their other business endeavors," said Skinner.

Alexander Vreeland, President & COO of G.A.V., added, "Now that the Calvin Klein business is launched and established across the United States and Canada, Andy Grossman and I are very pleased to transfer our interests in the Calvin Klein women's better sportswear business to Kellwood. This frees us to concentrate on the ck Calvin Klein bridge business and Emanuel/Emanuel Ungaro sportswear business."

Said Tom Murry, President & COO of Calvin Klein, Inc., "We have confidence in the Kellwood management team and look forward to working closely with them to grow the Calvin Klein women's better sportswear business. We are pleased that Andy and Alexander have been involved in the launch stage of the Calvin Klein women's better sportswear line and look forward to continuing our partnership with them as they develop the ck Calvin Klein women's bridge line."

ABOUT KELLWOOD

Source: Kellwood Company

CONTACT: Donna Weaver of Kellwood Company, +1-212-329-8072,
donna.weaver@kellwood.com

Web site: http://www.kellwood.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Jones Apparel Group, Inc. Announces Recent Appointments

2005-09-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

Jones Apparel Group, Inc. Announces Recent Appointments

NEW YORK, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Jones Apparel Group, Inc. (NYSE:JNY) today announced that Efthimios Sotos has been appointed to the position of Executive Vice President - Treasurer, Strategic and Financial Planning. In this new role, Thimio will assume responsibility for all financial planning, forecasting and budgeting activities and will continue to lead the Treasury function.

Also announced is the appointment of Deborah Gargiulo to the newly created position of Chief Financial Officer of the Better Apparel Divisions. Deb will report to Thimio Sotos in this new role and will be supporting the Division Presidents in the Better Apparel Group in their various financial planning, budgeting and operating improvement programs.

Anita Britt continues in her role as Executive Vice President of Finance, and will continue to lead the accounting and finance groups, as well as the significant project underway in re-organizing and re-engineering our finance and accounting organization and processes.

- those associated with the effect of national and regional economic
conditions;
- lowered levels of consumer spending resulting from a general economic
downturn or lower levels of consumer confidence or generally reduced
shopping activity caused by public safety concerns;
- the performance of the Company's products within the prevailing retail
environment;
- customer acceptance of both new designs and newly-introduced product
lines;
- the Company's reliance on a few department store groups for large
portions of the Company's business;
- consolidation of the Company's retail customers;
- financial difficulties encountered by customers;
- the effects of vigorous competition in the markets in which the Company
operates;
- the Company's ability to identify acquisition candidates and acquire
such businesses on reasonable financial and other terms, in an
increasingly competitive environment for such acquisitions;
- the integration of the organizations and operations of any acquired
businesses into the Company's existing organization and operations;
- the Company's reliance on independent foreign manufacturers;
- changes in the costs of raw materials, labor and advertising;
- the general inability to obtain higher wholesale prices for the
Company's products that the Company has experienced for many years;
- the uncertainties of sourcing associated with the new environment in
which quota has been eliminated on apparel products while political
pressure is building for the re-imposition of quotas in certain
categories; and
- the Company's ability to secure and protect trademarks and other
intellectual property rights.

Source: Jones Apparel Group, Inc.

CONTACT: Wesley R. Card, Chief Operating and Financial Officer, or Anita
Britt, Executive Vice President Finance, both of Jones Apparel Group, Inc.,
+1-215-785-4000

Web site: http://www.jny.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Olympus Fashion Week Skin Care Sponsor & 'Friends' Co-Star Courteney Cox Unveil New Skin Care Line at a Press Conference at New York's Olympus Fashion Week

2005-09-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

Olympus Fashion Week Skin Care Sponsor & 'Friends' Co-Star Courteney Cox Unveil New Skin Care Line at a Press Conference at New York's Olympus Fashion Week

*MEDIA ALERT* *MEDIA ALERT* *MEDIA ALERT*

WHO: Courteney Cox, Actress/Producer and Kinerase(R) Spokesperson

Wesley P. Wheeler, President, North America of Valeant
Pharmaceuticals, distributor of Kinerase, the official Skin Care
Sponsor of Olympus Fashion Week for 2003, 2004 and 2005.

Ange Trahern, Senior Product Manager, Kinerase

WHAT: Courteney Cox makes an appearance at a press conference to unveil
the luxury skin care line's newest launch: Kinerase Pro+Therapy,
and to announce a percentage of Kinerase sales that will be
donated to one of her favorite charities.

WHY: Kinerase Pro+Therapy is the highly anticipated addition to the
company's popular dermatologist-recommended line.

WHEN: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2005
4:00 p.m.

WHERE: Olympus Fashion Week Lobby (Left Corner)
Entrance on Sixth Avenue at 41st Street

ABOUT VALEANT: Valeant Pharmaceuticals International is a global, publicly traded, research-based specialty pharmaceutical company that discovers, develops, manufactures and markets products primarily in the areas of neurology, infectious disease and dermatology. More information about Valeant can be found at www.valeant.com.

Credentialed press only!
No one-on-one interviews will be given at the press conference.

Media Contact:
Danielle Bignola/Creative Media Marketing
(212) 979-8884
Danielle@cmmpr.com

PRNewswire -- Sept. 8

Source: Valeant Pharmaceuticals International

Web site: http://www.valeant.com/

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Profile: Fashion

MultiVu Video Feed: Fall Fashion Trends Uncovered

2005-09-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

MultiVu Video Feed: Fall Fashion Trends Uncovered

SATELLITE FEEDS:

Thursday September 8th, 2005 Friday September 9th, 2005
1:00PM - 1:15 PM ET 1:30 PM - 1:45 PM ET
IA 5 IA 5
Transponder 23 Transponder 24
C-Band C-Band
Downlink Freq: 4160 Vertical Downlink Freq: 4180 Horizontal

Preview and access this video on Pathfire DMG: 22330
Search within the PR Newswire or MultiVu section by story ID # 22330 or
by headline
For technical assistance call Pathfire Customer Care at 1-888-345-0489 or
e-mail support@pathfire.com

FORMAT: News Package With Extra Soundbites and B-roll.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Video, hard copy requests, contact information and more available at http://www.prnewswire.com/broadcast/22330/press.shtml

STORY SUMMARY: Summer may be the time to go "casual" when it comes to fashion, but Fall is the time to kick it up a notch! Both designers and retailers alike gear up most of the year for the season, which dictates what's hot and what's not. What's taking center stage this year?

The "hot" list:
-- Gaucho pants
-- Textured Tweeds
-- Sweater shrug
-- The bohemian or 'Boho' look -- like tiered skirts

Fashionistas everywhere are also scooping up accessories by the boatload. Metallic and embellished fashion pieces including sequins, beads are hotter than ever. These pieces, once known for evening wear, are making daytime appearances.

From gaucho pants to sweater shrugs, this VNR shows the hottest fashions trends -- what large store chains forecast months ago that we're seeing on the racks and now on the street.

SOUNDBITES:
* Nancy Alderman, Director of New Product Development, Stein Mart
* 'Man on the street' Interviews

B-ROLL INCLUDES: ***models at photo shoot***woman trying on clothes***woman shopping***clothes on the sales rack

VIDEO PROVIDED BY: Stein Mart

FOR TECHNICAL INFORMATION OR HARD COPY, PLEASE CALL:
MultiVu Media Relations, 800-653-5313 EXT. 3

PRNewswire -- Sept. 8

Video: http://www.prnewswire.com/broadcast/22330/press.shtml
Source: Stein Mart

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Profile: Fashion

E! Entertainment Television to Offer Fans a New Look and Unprecedented Coverage of 2005 Primetime Emmy(R) Awards

2005-09-08T05:55:00.000-07:00

E! Entertainment Television to Offer Fans a New Look and Unprecedented Coverage of 2005 Primetime Emmy(R) Awards

Star Jones Reynolds Returns for the Second Year to Host 'Live From the Red Carpet(C)' on Sunday, September 18th From 6:00-8:00pm ET/PT

'E! News' Anchor Giuliana Depandi, 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' Carson Kressley and Comedian Kathy Griffin to Report From Strategic Locations Throughout the Red Carpet

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- E! Entertainment Television is unveiling exciting new changes in its coverage of the Primetime Emmy(R) Awards this year, it was announced today by Ted Harbert, President & CEO, E! Networks. The Network will have 17 live cameras to capture all the action; including aerial coverage and E!'s exclusive fashion camera right alongside the still photographers. Thanks to a new on-screen look, viewers won't miss a thing with simultaneous coverage of interviews, fashion, arriving celebrities and more.

For the second year, Star Jones Reynolds will host "Live From The Red Carpet" on Sunday, September 18th, from 6:00PM-8:00PM ET (LIVE)/PT (Tape Delayed) from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. Helping to cover it all is an expanded red carpet team: "E! News" anchor Giuliana DePandi, comedian Kathy Griffin and fashion guru Carson Kressley.

In addition, E! will be the first to get celebrity reaction with Star at the first live interview position on the red carpet, as well as any final thoughts with the last celebrity stop just outside the doors of the Shrine with Carson.

"We want to let the viewer experience all the sights and sounds as they unfold on the red carpet. This year's telecast will surpass all others, as we expand our coverage, adding new camera positions, new on-screen elements, and a talented team that includes host Star Jones Reynolds, Giuliana DePandi, Carson Kressley and Kathy Griffin, who will each provide their own truly unique perspective of the action as it happens," said Harbert. Adding, "You're gonna need a bigger TV."

"I am so excited to continue as the host of "Live From The Red Carpet" for the second year. This year's show will surprise and delight viewers as we capture intimate interviews with today's hottest stars, and in-depth access into the biggest night in television ... And you never know what will come from my team on the red carpet."

E! Networks is the ultimate Emmy(R) coverage destination for entertainment fans. Before E!'s main red carpet event, "E! News" reporters Patrick Stinson and Samantha Harris will be joined by E! Online's Kristin Veitch and Ted Casablanca on the two-hour "Countdown to the Red Carpet," premiering from 4:00 PM -6:00 PM ET (LIVE)/PT (Tape Delayed). The live show will take viewers behind-the-scenes for all of the preparation that goes into Awards night, as well as offering a first-look at the evening's fashion parade and interviews with early arriving celebrities. E!'s coverage continues with the two-hour "Live Post Show" special, premiering from 11:00 PM -1:00 AM ET (LIVE)/PT (Tape Delayed), which will take viewers back stage as the winners sit down in the one-on-one interview room, and later that evening as they step into the night's most exclusive parties.

The one-hour special, "Fashion Police," hosted by Kathy Griffin and Carson Kressley, will premiere the following day, Monday, September 19th, at 8:00 PM ET/PT.

On the Web, E! Online has Emmys(R) covered from all angles. As the A-listers make their arrival, the site posts their red carpet photos. Users can rate the star styles with the interactive Instant Fashion Police -- and see real-time results on E!'s Live from the Red Carpet. During the ceremony, know who's on top with a constantly updating Scorecard, and after the big event, get pics, clips, the Backstage Blog, a Best & Worst gallery and E!'s trademark Fashion Police critique. On September 22, E! Online's Party Girl launches her report from the night's best bashes, and Ted Casablanca's The Awful Truth spills the story behind the story -- as in, the details all the TV cameras didn't catch.

Co-host on ABC's "The View," Star Jones Reynolds first stepped onto the red carpet for E! last year, hosting the coverage for all of the entertainment industry's major award shows for the Network, including the 2004 Primetime Emmy(R) Awards and the 2005 Golden Globes(R), Screen Actors Guild(R), Grammys(R) and Academy Awards(R). A lawyer and former prosecutor, Jones is known to television viewers for her candor, confidence and uncanny ability to clarify muddy legal and social issues, as well as for her distinctive sense of style.

Giuliana DePandi joined E! as a news correspondent in 2002, covering a variety of stories and events for E! News. DePandi now serves as anchor for E! News, and covers the red carpet for the Network's signature Awards coverage, ranging from the Primetime Emmys(R), Golden Globes(R), Grammys(R), SAG(R) and Academy Awards(R), as well as movie premieres. Born in Naples, Italy, DePandi first realized her dreams of becoming a television journalist at age six after moving to Washington, D.C. with her family. Unable to afford a language tutor, she learned English by watching television before enrolling in the public school system.

Actress, stand-up comedian and self-described television maven, Kathy Griffin's razor sharp wit and comedic timing made her a great addition to E!'s award show coverage last year, where she covered the Golden Globes(R), Grammys(R) and the Academy Awards(R) for the Network. Her new reality series, "The D-List," is now airing on Bravo.

Fashion savant, actor (The Perfect Man) and NY Times-bestselling author Carson Kressley is one of the stars of the hit original series, "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy," for which he picked up an Emmy(R) in 2004. His hilarious sense of humor and undeniable sartorial style has made him one of the most popular personalities on television today. His upcoming children's book Your Different And That's Super is due out this November.

Based in Los Angeles, E! Networks is the world's largest producer and distributor of entertainment news and lifestyle-related programming. The company operates E! Entertainment Television, the 24-hour network with programming dedicated to the world of entertainment, as well as The Style Network and E! Online located at www.eonline.com. E! is currently available to 86 million cable and direct broadcast satellite subscribers in the U.S. Style currently counts 42 million subscribers. Internationally, E! programming can be seen in more than 120 countries worldwide reaching 400 million homes. In addition to its ventures for locally programmed E! branded channels outside the U.S., the company operates the E! International Network, a 24-hour English language global entertainment channel available via satellite in Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Middle East.

Source: E! Entertainment Television

CONTACT: Sarah Goldstein, +1-323-692-4552, or Diane Morgan,
+1-323-954-2516, both of E! Entertainment Television

Web site: http://www.eonline.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Eliminate Cheesy Chippendales Strippers From Bachelorette Parties Forever!

2005-09-08T05:38:00.000-07:00

Eliminate Cheesy Chippendales Strippers From Bachelorette Parties Forever!

Give the Bridal Party a Fun, Sexy Workout and Learn Basic Striptease Moves at the Same Time

SEATTLE, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Tricia Murphy, renowned Northwest aerobics instructor, trainer, and founder of Urban Striptease Aerobics is revolutionizing the traditional bachelorette party. Instead of hiring the often embarrassing male stripper for your best friend/sister/cousin/mother, let the whole bridal party take a lesson on being "stripper sexy." Based on simple exotic dance moves and the art of striptease, Tricia's parties incorporate aerobics for an invigorating, fun and healthy hour of full-body exercise that can be done in the comfort of any home.

"Women are raving about how Urban Striptease made their bachelorette party fun and unique, without making anyone feel uncomfortable, as male strippers sometimes do," said Murphy. "How many times have you attended a bachelorette party and had a stripper show up, only to have an hour of awkward games and activities? The male stripper might be fun (or funny!) to look at for the first few minutes, but it can get downright uncomfortable very quickly."

Tricia's alternative approach to bachelorette parties is proving to be a huge success in the Pacific Northwest, and she is now offering her class nationwide for parties across the country. Having a personal instructor teaching a group activity is fun, sexy, doesn't get in the way of cosmos and gag gifts, and remains tasteful. An Urban Striptease party has sex appeal and long lasting benefits. Attendees gain confidence and a comfort in their own skin, and leave with a host of killer dance moves up their sleeves.

The party offering includes a one-hour class, plus the bride (or hostess) receives a gift package complete with a copy of the Urban Striptease Aerobics DVD and sweet-but-sexy black and pink tank top. Prices range from $275-$400 plus travel expenses.

The Urban Striptease apparel line and DVD are available online at www.urbanstriptease.com or by calling 1-888-30TEASE.

Source: Urban Striptease Aerobics

CONTACT: Shawn D. Madden, PR Director of Urban Striptease Aerobics, or
smadden@urbanstriptease.com

Web site: http://www.urbanstriptease.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: Tricia Murphy is available for interview and select appearances. Photos also available.

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Profile: Fashion

Cutter & Buck Announces Quarterly Results

2005-09-08T05:37:00.000-07:00

Cutter & Buck Announces Quarterly Results

SEATTLE, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Cutter & Buck Inc. (NASDAQ:CBUK) today announced results of its first quarter ended July 31, 2005.

For the quarter ended July 31, we had the following results:

2005 2004
(in millions, except percentage
and per share data)
Net Sales $29.7 $31.9
Gross Profit $14.0 $15.8
Gross Margin 47.2% 49.4%
Net Income $2.1 $3.3
Earnings Per Share $0.18 $0.29

Balance Sheet Summary:

July 31, April 30, July 31,
2005 2005 2004
(in millions)
Cash and Short-Term Investments $43.1 $40.6 $43.5
Accounts Receivable $18.2 $21.8 $18.1
Inventories $28.7 $25.4 $25.9
Working Capital $83.2 $82.6 $78.3
Shareholders' Equity $88.5 $87.9 $82.7

Financial Results and Management Viewpoint:

Sales in the first quarter declined 6.8% year-over-year, driven by 9.3% and 10.6% declines in our corporate and golf business units, respectively. "As we discussed last quarter, this fiscal year is going to be a transition year for us as we continue to invest in marketing, information systems, product design and quality, and improving the price-value relationship of our products," said Tom Wyatt, Chief Executive Officer. "Our product lines had become somewhat stale and that, combined with an increasingly competitive market environment, has led to disappointing sales levels. Since I joined this company late last year, my primary focus -- and the focus of the entire Cutter & Buck team -- has been to rejuvenate our products, and I believe we are well on our way to doing so. However, our business is characterized by long product cycles so, as we mentioned last quarter, we do not expect to truly see the benefits of these improvements until the fourth quarter of this year when we ship the majority of our spring product."

Sales in the corporate channel were down for the second quarter in a row, following the launch of our annual corporate catalog early this year. "As we analyze the sales in the corporate channel and have discussions with our customers, it has become clear to us that the calendar year 2005 product line was not as strong as in past years and did not include enough new styles or technical fabrications to drive sales increases in this channel," commented Wyatt. "We believe we have addressed this issue with our 2006 'classics' product line -- the first developed under my leadership -- which we are launching three months earlier than in prior years, in October 2005. The new line will not only include far more new styles and technical pieces than in previous years, but there is also an emphasis on women's companion pieces to our strong men's line. We believe the quality and variety of the women's line will give us a competitive advantage in the corporate channel. Customer reaction to previews of the new line has been very positive," Wyatt continued.

While golf sales were down 10.6%, over half of the decrease was due to sales last year associated with the Ryder Cup tournament that is held in the United States only once every four years. Excluding the Ryder Cup sales, golf sales decreased 4.8% during the quarter, a significant improvement in our recent trends (golf sales down 17.1% last quarter and 12.5% for all of last fiscal year).

Sales increased 2.9% in the specialty retail channel and 9.2% in the international channel. Both of these channels are performing well for us and we expect strong growth in these channels in the future.

Gross margin for the quarter was 47.2%, a decrease of 220 basis points from the prior year. 130 basis points of this decline is attributable to a $390,000 increase to our inventory reserve on discontinued classics, which reflects the unusually large number of discontinued styles in the classics line, as we prepare to launch our significantly improved 2006 classics line that begins shipping in October. The remaining decrease in gross margin is due to the mix of sales among the sales channels and selective discounts to remain competitive in the marketplace.

Operating expenses excluding restatement costs increased 7.4% over last year as we invested in our marketing, product development and systems. During the quarter we also began to incur expenses related to the production of our new consumer catalog and upgrading our website at www.cutterbuck.com. Consumers began receiving catalogs and the website was re-launched earlier this month. Our professional fees increased primarily due to Sarbanes-Oxley compliance costs.

Our balance sheet remains strong, with cash and investments totaling $43.1 million at the end of the quarter and no debt. We generated $4.2 million in free cash flow (defined as cash provided by operating activities less purchases of fixed assets) during the quarter. Accounts receivable averaged 61 days' sales outstanding during the quarter compared to 58 days for the same period last year.

Inventories were $28.7 million at the end of the quarter, compared to $25.9 million at July 31, 2004. "Inventory levels are somewhat higher than where we would like them to be, primarily for two reasons," said Ernie Johnson, Chief Financial Officer. "First, sales in the corporate channel were lower than expected. Second, we had to bring some inventory in early to support our specialty department store and direct to consumer businesses. Compared to last year when inventories increased $4.0 million during the first quarter, this year inventories increased just $3.3 million with lower than expected sales. Looking to the balance of the year, we will be building inventory to support the early launch of the 2006 corporate catalog and we will need to stock the increased number of fresh, new products Tom and the rest of the Cutter & Buck team have developed. Therefore, we anticipate that inventory will remain somewhat above historical levels for the next two quarters, but expect inventory to return to seasonally normal levels by the end of this fiscal year."

Three-Year Strategic Plan Announced

In late July, Tom Wyatt introduced the company's three-year strategic plan to the entire organization. Key initiatives in the strategic plan include:

-- Upgrading the quality and design of the product offering
-- Increasing the number of corporate companion pieces
-- Launching the consumer catalog and improved web site
-- Increasing our brand presence through advertising and tour player
sponsorships
-- Expanding our penetration in golf and specialty department stores
-- Increasing our investment in marketing, product design and systems to
support growth
-- Growing licensing revenue through both international and domestic
partnerships

"Our associates are excited and focused on executing the strategic plan and returning Cutter & Buck to top line growth," said Wyatt.

Dividend and Stock Repurchase Programs

Cutter & Buck announced that its board of directors approved a $0.07 per share quarterly dividend. As previously disclosed, the board has approved a special cash dividend of approximately $15 million, equal to $1.34 per share and also increased the company's remaining share repurchase authorization to $10 million as of July 6, 2005 for a total of $14.2 million authorized since the inception of the repurchase plan.

The quarterly dividend of $0.07 a share will be payable on October 12, 2005 to shareholders of record on September 28, 2005. The payment of the special dividend is subject to shareholder approval of stock plan amendments that will allow certain adjustments to employee stock-based compensation awards to offset the impact of this dividend. If shareholders approve these amendments at the annual meeting, the special dividend will be payable on November 16, 2005 to shareholders of record on November 2, 2005.

During the first quarter, we repurchased 105,000 shares of our common stock at an average price of $12.47, for a total cost of $1.3 million. From the inception of our stock repurchase program through the end of July 2005, we have repurchased a total of 377,000 shares of our common stock at an average price of $12.31. Since the end of the quarter, the company has purchased another 58,000 shares at an average price of $13.29, representing an additional expenditure of $771,000. In total, we have spent $5.4 million repurchasing shares, leaving $8.8 million remaining of the $14.2 million share repurchase authorization.

Cutter & Buck Announces Corporate Governance Improvements

As part of the company's on-going review of its corporate governance, the Board of Directors of Cutter & Buck has voted to seek an amendment to the shareholder rights plan so that it will expire three years early on November 18, 2005. In addition, the Board has voted to include in its proxy statement for the upcoming Annual Meeting of Shareholders the following corporate governance changes:

-- Eliminate the company's present three-year staggered terms of our
directors ("classified board") so that there will be annual elections
for all Board of Directors positions beginning in 2006.
-- Eliminate the supermajority provisions with respect to the classified
board when the classified board is eliminated.

"While we are proud of our corporate governance rating from ISS, we decided to take these steps because we believe they are the right things to do for our shareholders," commented Doug Southern, Cutter & Buck's Chairman.

"In addition to the measures we enacted, we carefully evaluated the idea of cumulative voting," Southern continued. "After considering the recommendations of ISS and other objective groups, however, we concluded that cumulative voting is not consistent with good corporate governance."

Annual Meeting

The annual meeting of shareholders will be held at 9 a.m. on October 19, 2005 at the company's corporate office in Seattle.

Final Comments

CEO Tom Wyatt concluded, "We are encouraged by the initial response to the spring product line. Our new 'Signature Collection' of refined knit shirts, the expanded CB ProTec line of performance wear and our expanded year-round offering of golf classics are all being received well by our existing, former and new customers.

"I am confident that if we execute against each of the strategic initiatives, especially improving our product, we will grow Cutter & Buck and increase shareholder value over time. We are in the early stages, however, and must go through a challenging 2006 to see these initiatives take hold and deliver results that we can all be proud of."

Conference Call

Cutter & Buck invites investors to listen to a broadcast of the company's conference call to discuss these matters. The conference call will be broadcast live over the Internet at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time, 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time, September 8, 2005. To listen to the conference call, go to http://www.cutterbuck.com/ . At the website select "Investor Relations." The call will be archived shortly after its completion and will be available on the web through November 8, 2005. The call can also be accessed at 1-800-642-1687, ID #9156959 through November 8, 2005.

Statements made in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. Specifically, there are a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any forward-looking statements. Those factors include, but are not limited to the following: the ability of the company to control costs and expenses, costs associated with the upgrade and replacement of some of our computer systems, costs associated with our marketing initiatives and costs associated with regulatory compliance; the potential outcome of pending and future audits by various taxing jurisdictions; our ability to maintain our relationships with our sponsored professional golfers; relations with and performance of suppliers; the Company's ability to carry out successful designs and effectively advertise and communicate with the marketplace and to penetrate our chosen distribution channels; the Company's ability to appropriately price its products; the number of golf rounds played, which may be impacted by severe weather-related disasters and the weather in general; competition; risks related to the timely performance of third parties, such as shipping companies, including risks of strikes or labor disputes involving these third parties; maintaining the integrity of the Company's technology and information systems while enhancing and changing systems; attracting and retaining employees, including key management personnel; political and trade relations; changes in international trade quota systems for apparel; the overall level of consumer spending on apparel; global economic and political conditions and additional threatened terrorist attacks and responses thereto, including war. Under the Board's remaining $8.8 million stock repurchase authorization, the company may repurchase all $8.8 million of its stock, or no further shares of its stock, or any amount in between, depending on the trading price of the company's stock, market conditions, or for any other reason. Additional information on these and other factors, which could affect the Company's financial results, are included in its Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Finally, there may be other factors not mentioned above or included in the company's SEC filings that may cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. The company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or developments except as may be required by securities laws.

About Cutter & Buck

Cutter & Buck designs and markets upscale sportswear under the Cutter & Buck brand. The company sells its products primarily to golf and specialty retailers, corporations and international distributors and licensees. Cutter & Buck products feature distinctive, comfortable designs, high quality materials and manufacturing, and rich detailing.

Table A: Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (unaudited)

Three Months Ended
July 31, July 31,
2005 2004
(in thousands, except share and per
share amounts)
Net sales $29,741 $31,899
Cost of sales 15,696 16,147
Gross profit 14,045 15,752

Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative 10,916 10,013
Depreciation 666 766
Restatement expenses (483) 14
Total operating expenses 11,099 10,793
Operating income 2,946 4,959

Interest income (expense)
Interest income 308 104
Interest expense (8) (17)
Net interest income (expense) 300 87
Pre-tax income 3,246 5,046
Income tax expense 1,144 1,796
Net income $2,102 $3,250

Table B: Summary of Net Sales by Business Unit

Three Months Ended July 31, Percent
2005 2004 Decrease Change
(in thousands, except
percent change)
Corporate $13,742 $15,143 $(1,401) (9.3)%
Golf 7,891 8,827 (936) (10.6)
Specialty Retail 5,478 5,322 156 2.9
International 748 685 63 9.2
Other 1,882 1,922 (40) (2.1)
Total $29,741 $31,899 $(2,158) (6.8)%

Table C: Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited, unless otherwise stated)

July 31, April 30, July 31,
2005 2005 2004
(audited)
(in thousands)
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $12,845 $11,752 $17,131
Short-term investments 30,275 28,831 26,400
Accounts receivable 18,188 21,814 18,118
Inventories 28,687 25,398 25,938
Other current assets 5,513 5,648 4,798
Total current assets 95,508 93,443 92,385

Furniture and equipment, net 6,747 6,734 5,659
Other assets 1,771 1,779 2,195
Total assets $104,026 $101,956 $100,239

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $5,107 $3,077 $5,321
Accrued liabilities 7,131 7,631 6,011
Income taxes payable -- -- 2,279
Current portion of capital
lease obligations 46 111 449
Total current liabilities 12,284 10,819 14,060

Long-term liabilities 3,194 3,262 3,518

Total shareholders' equity 88,548 87,875 82,661
Total liabilities and
shareholders' equity $104,026 $101,956 $100,239

Table D: Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)

Three Months Ended
July 31, 2005 July 31, 2004
(in thousands)
Operating activities:
Net income $2,102 $3,250
Adjustments to reconcile net income
to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation 679 812
Tax benefit on exercise of
stock options 165 --
Deferred income taxes 78 --
Deferred compensation 24 --
Deferred gain on sale and
leaseback of capital assets -- (1)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net 3,626 4,384
Inventories, net (3,289) (4,000)
Prepaid expenses and
other assets (347) 60
Accounts payable, accrued
liabilities and other liabilities 1,462 958
Income taxes payable 412 1,062
Net cash provided by operating
activities 4,912 6,525

Investing activities:
Purchases of furniture and equipment (692) (180)
Purchases of short-term investments (26,308) (20,418)
Maturities of short-term investments 24,864 11,970
Net cash used in investing activities (2,136) (8,628)

Financing activities:
Issuance of common stock 483 399
Repurchases of common stock (1,316) (176)
Payment of dividends (785) (541)
Principal payments under capital
lease obligations (65) (163)
Net cash used in financing activities (1,683) (481)

Net increase (decrease) in cash and
cash equivalents 1,093 (2,584)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning
of period 11,752 19,715
Cash and cash equivalents, end of
period $12,845 $17,131

Source: Cutter & Buck Inc.

CONTACT: Tom Wyatt, CEO, or Ernie Johnson, CFO, both of Cutter & Buck
Inc., +1-206-622-4191

Web site: http://www.cutterbuck.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Charlotte Russe Makes Fashion Statement With AT&T Networking Services

2005-09-08T05:28:00.000-07:00

Charlotte Russe Makes Fashion Statement With AT&T Networking Services

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- AT&T today announced that Charlotte Russe Holding Inc., a San Diego-based retailing company, has selected the company to provide end-to-end networking services to all Charlotte Russe and Rampage stores.

Operating 372 stores in 39 states, Charlotte Russe is a growing mall-based specialty retailer of fashionable, value-priced apparel and accessories targeting young women in their teens and twenties.

This deal -- part of a larger, three-year, $2.3 million contract Charlotte Russe has with AT&T -- includes a new Internet Protocol (IP)-based networking infrastructure that will provide secure, high-speed connectivity and data transfer. The deal also includes a range of domestic voice and professional services.

"AT&T worked with Charlotte Russe to design a network that met our needs, both financially and functionally. The solution gave us the bandwidth to run our applications and the reliability to support our business," said Shane C. Milano, Charlotte Russe's director of infrastructure and distributed systems.

The networking solution will reduce downtime associated with older network infrastructures and allow Charlotte Russe to more securely and expeditiously process all credit card and gift card transactions throughout the company's retail stores. AT&T also is providing project management for implementation of the high-speed network.

About AT&T

For more than 125 years, AT&T (NYSE "T") has been known for unparalleled quality and reliability in communications. Backed by the research and development capabilities of AT&T Labs, the company is a global leader in local, long distance, Internet and transaction-based voice and data services.

About Charlotte Russe

Charlotte Russe Holding, Inc. is a growing mall-based specialty retailer of fashionable, value-priced apparel and accessories targeting young women in their teens and twenties. The company operated a total of 372 stores in 39 states and Puerto Rico, as of March 26, 2005, comprised of 305 Charlotte Russe stores and 67 Rampage stores. Twelve new stores were opened during the first six months of fiscal 2005, and the company expects to open up to 50 new stores during the fiscal year ending in September 2005. See www.charlotte-russe.com

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991018/ATT)

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991018/ATT
Source: AT&T

CONTACT: Gordon Diamond of AT&T, +1-415-442-2268, hgdiamond@att.com;
Shane Milano of Charlotte Russe Holding, Inc., +1-858-490-2077,
SMilano@charlotte-russe.com

Web site: http://www.att.com/
http://www.charlotte-russe.com/

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Profile: Fashion

New Study by Landor and Penn, Schoen & Berland Associates Identifies 'Must Have' Brands for Back-to-School

2005-09-08T05:18:00.000-07:00

New Study by Landor and Penn, Schoen & Berland Associates Identifies 'Must Have' Brands for Back-to-School

Must Have Items for High School and College Students are No Longer About What They Wear, But What's in Their Pockets

NEW YORK, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- When it comes to back-to-school wear and technology gadgets, America's teens and college students have no shortage of brands clamoring for attention -- especially in the back-to-school marketing frenzy of August and September. However, a new study conducted by branding firm Landor Associates and research firm Penn, Schoen & Berland shows which brands are best resonating with America's youth this season.

Sixty-six percent of college students anticipate technology gadgets will be the "must have" items at school this year, versus twenty-three percent for clothes. For high school students, thirty-eight percent think gadgets will be the "must have" items, versus thirty-five percent thinking clothes will be. According to the results, fashion is important, but gadgets even more so, especially as students mature and enter college.

Leading the list of this year's most popular brands for back-to-school, the iPod phenomenon is proving to be a success within this demographic. Apple's iPod brand dominated the MP3 player category, ranking first in popularity among both high school and college student groups. The study also revealed other top technology brands. The most popular cell-phone brand for high school students was Sony Ericsson, while college students ranked Motorola the top cell-phone brand. In the category of computers, Dell was the top-ranked brand among both groups.

The study also found that motivations to purchase particular brands for back-to-school among the two groups are similar. In the clothing, jeans and shoe brand categories, high school students prefer Ecko, Lucky Jeans and Converse because they are viewed as cool, hip and popular. College students however prefer Hollister, Diesel and Steve Madden, not only for their popularity, but also because they want people to know they wear them.

"There is a clear distinction between the brands that high school students and college students consider 'must-haves,' particularly with fashion brands," said Mike Berland, Partner at Penn, Schoen & Berland. "However, several brands dominate the categories of gadgets, computers and retail stores."

"This survey shows the success many newer and established brands are having in creating connections with America's students, many of whom will continue to associate with these brands long after school," said Allen Adamson, Managing Director of Landor Associates in New York. "Brands aren't built overnight, but rather through long-term brand positioning and planning. Successful brand managers understand this process and the importance of proactively managing their brand."

Among the results, a few key trends stand out:

-- The Apple iPod is the most popular back to school gadget. High school
and college students rank the iPod as the No. 1 must-have gadget. The
brand is associated with "popular" and "hip/cool."
-- Target is universally considered to be the top place to find school
supplies. The retailer is most strongly associated with the sentiment
that it "allows me to express my unique style" compared to retailers
such as Wal-Mart, Staples, Office Max, Office Depot and others.
-- Dell is the preferred computer brand for students. Nearly half of those
students surveyed believe Dell is a "brand for me" and identify it as
"popular" and "hip/cool."

Penn, Schoen & Berland conducted 1,042 interviews among a representative sample of males and females between ages 13 and 29 who attend junior high, high school or college. The interviews were conducted from August 23-26, 2005. Respondents were split so that they each rated up to 10 products with which they were familiar.

ABOUT LANDOR ASSOCIATES

Landor Associates is the world's leading strategic brand and creative design consultancy. Founded by Walter Landor in 1941, Landor pioneered many of the research, design and consulting methodologies that are now standard in the branding industry. Partnering with clients, Landor drives business transformation and performance by creating brands that are more innovative, progressive and dynamic than their competitors.

Landor's holistic approach to branding is a balance of rigorous, business-driven thinking and exceptional creativity. Our work spans the full breadth of branding services, including brand research and valuation, brand positioning and architecture, naming and nomenclature systems, corporate identity and consumer packaging design, branded environments, brand equity management, brand engagement, writing and digital branding.

With 23 offices in 18 countries, Landor's current and past clients include some of the world's most powerful brands, such as Pepsi, BP, FedEx, GE, Delta, Frito-Lay, Hyatt Hotels, Levi's, Japan Airlines, Lucent, Netscape, Procter & Gamble, Microsoft, Cathay Pacific and LG Group.

Landor is part of WPP Group PLC, one of the world's largest global communications services companies.

ABOUT PENN, SCHOEN & BERLAND ASSOCIATES

Penn, Schoen & Berland Associates has nearly 30 years of experience in leveraging consumer opinion to provide clients with a competitive advantage, or more simply -- providing our clients with Winning Knowledge(TM).

PSB brings an extensive network and unique knowledge base to bear on your communications issues. We use our experience and global reach to deliver unrivaled business and political insights.

PSB executes polling and message testing services in over 70 countries for Fortune(R)500 companies and major political campaigns to develop brand positioning, guide successful advertising campaigns, generate favorable publicity, and advise in crisis management decisions. For more information, please visit www.psbsurveys.com.

Source: Landor Associates

CONTACT: Jennifer Bennett of Cohn & Wolfe, +1-415-365-8528, or
jennifer_bennett@cohnwolfe.com, for Landor Associates; or Mindy Romero,
Manager, Public Relations of Landor Associates, +1-212-614-5261, or
Mindy_Romero@landor.com

Web site: http://www.landor.com/

Web site: http://www.psbsurveys.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: A summary presentation of the survey is available to members of the media upon request.

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Profile: Fashion

Deb Shops, Inc. Reports August Sales

2005-09-08T04:39:00.000-07:00

Deb Shops, Inc. Reports August Sales

Deb Shops, Inc. to Participate in the Roth Capital Partners New York Conference on September 8, 2005

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Deb Shops, Inc. (NASDAQ:DEBS) today reported that comparable store sales increased 4.7% for the month ended August 31, 2005. Total sales increased 5.8% to $31.7 million from $29.9 million for the month ended August 31, 2004.

Deb Shops, Inc. also announced that it is scheduled to participate in the Roth Capital Partners New York conference today, Thursday, September 8, 2005 at 11:30 a.m., Eastern Time.

Barry Susson, Chief Financial Officer will represent Deb Shops at the conference. At 11:30 a.m., the audio and slide portions of the presentation will be available at http://www.wsw.com/webcast/roth6/debs/ as well as within the investor relations section of the Company's web site at http://www.debshops.com/.

The Company reports financial results on the calendar month, therefore, differences in timing will occur when comparing Deb Shops' results to those of retailers reporting on a 4-5-4 calendar.

For the remainder of fiscal year 2006, Deb Shops, Inc. will report monthly sales according to the following calendar:

Month End Reporting Date
September 2005 October 6, 2005
October 2005 November 3, 2005
November 2005 December 8, 2005*
December 2005 January 5, 2006
January 2006 February 2, 2006

*Denotes dates that differ from reporting dates under the 4-5-4 calendar.

Deb Shops, Inc. is a national specialty retailer of fashionable apparel, shoes and accessories for juniors in both regular and plus sizes. The Company operates 326 specialty apparel stores in 41 states under the DEB and Tops 'N Bottoms names.

The Company's presentation will contain "forward-looking statements" (as that term is defined under federal securities laws) concerning the Company's future operations, performance, profitability, revenues, expenses, earnings, financial condition, store openings and closings and other matters. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors. Such factors may include, but are not limited to, the Company's ability to improve or maintain sales and margins, respond to changes in fashion, find suitable retail locations and attract and retain key management personnel. Such factors may also include other risks and uncertainties detailed in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2005. The Company assumes no obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied therein will not be realized.

Source: Deb Shops, Inc.

CONTACT: Barry Susson, Chief Financial Officer, Deb Shops, Inc.,
+1-215-676-6000 x362; or Brendon Frey, Integrated Corporate Relations,
+1-203-682-8216, for Deb Shops, Inc.

Web site: http://www.wsw.com/webcast/roth6/debs

Web site: http://www.debshops.com/

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Profile: Fashion

The Buckle, Inc. to Present at Roth Capital Partners Conference

2005-09-08T04:05:00.000-07:00

The Buckle, Inc. to Present at Roth Capital Partners Conference

KEARNEY, Neb., Sept. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Buckle, Inc. (NYSE:BKE) is scheduled to present at the Roth Capital Partners New York Conference at the Westin New York at Times Square on Thursday, September 8, 2005 at 12:00 p.m. EST. The Buckle, Inc. will be represented at the conference by Karen Rhoads, Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer, and Kyle Hanson, Corporate Secretary and General Counsel. The Company will review past financial performance and provide a general overview of the Company and its approach to business.

The presentation will be posted in two files on the Company's web site (www.buckle.com) for a period of 14 days. One file will contain the narrative and the second file the visual presentation.

Headquartered in Kearney, Nebraska, The Buckle, Inc. is a retailer of casual apparel, footwear and accessories for young men and women. It currently operates 333 retail stores in 38 states.

Safe Harbor Statement Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act Of 1995; All forward looking statements made by the Company involve material risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on factors which may be beyond the Company's control. Accordingly, the Company's future performance and financial results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, those described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied therein will not be realized.

Contact: Karen B. Rhoads, Chief Financial Officer
The Buckle, Inc.
308/236-8491

Source: The Buckle, Inc.

CONTACT: Karen B. Rhoads, Chief Financial Officer of The Buckle, Inc.,
+1-308-236-8491

Web site: http://www.buckle.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Pugster, Inc. Reaches 1 Million Positive Feedbacks on eBay's 10th Anniversary

2005-09-08T03:56:00.000-07:00

Pugster, Inc. Reaches 1 Million Positive Feedbacks on eBay's 10th Anniversary

PASADENA, Calif., Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Pugster, Inc. http://www.pugster.com/, pugster888 on eBay, a leading fashion jewelry company is the first top seller in eBay history to reach the one million overall positive feedback mark. The momentous occasion occurred at approximately 11:30pm on September 2, 2005; the same weekend that eBay celebrated its 10th anniversary. To celebrate this milestone Pugster is awarding 51 prizes with a value totaling over $10,000.

Customer Kimberly Hunter of Charleston, South Carolina submitted the 1 millionth positive overall feedback and will receive the grand prize of a 5- day, 4-night trip to the Island of Maui in Hawaii. She and her husband Matt were delighted about the trip. Kimberly writes "My husband and I are so excited! We just got married on May 5th and didn't have a honeymoon so this will be the absolute perfect honeymoon!"

The next 50 unique eBay users who left feedback will receive gift certificates in varying denominations from the Pottery Barn, Bloomingdales, Dell, Sharper Image, Discovery Channel Store, The Gap, or Pugster. Each of those 50 users will also receive a selection of Pugster Italian charms, including one of Pugster's exclusive licensed "It's Happy Bunny" charms.

According to the Nortica eBay 500 (http://www.nortica.com/UserArea/Default.asp), pugster888 has topped the charts every month as the "fastest growing" eBay member and is currently the #1 volume seller on http://www.ebay.com/. Pugster has also been a member of the Power eBay Sellers Alliance (PeSA) since October 2002. PeSA (http://www.gopesa.org/) is currently made up of over 700 high-volume eBay sellers and represents a wide variety of goods and services, PeSA members currently generate over seventy million eBay transactions each year and over one billion dollars in annual eBay gross merchandise sales.

Pugster sets the bar for excellence. High-quality Italian charms and fashion jewelry, and top-notch customer service are Pugster's specialties. Pugster is a Bonded Seller(TM) with buySAFE(R) (http://www.buysafe.com/) and includes this as part of its customer care package. buySAFE enables Pugster to offer a surety bond on each of its transactions, ensuring that buyers have the highest level of financial protection currently available online. Lifetime customers feel confident and safe in their transactions with Pugster and buySAFE(R).

The company releases exciting new Italian charm bracelet links and fashion jewelry products every week. Italian charm styles include laser links, Disney links, Pugster's exclusive X2 brand of Italian charms and more. Pugster's inventory also includes a great variety of fashion jewelry, rhinestone and vintage style brooches, 925 sterling silver and CZ rings, belly rings, beaded stretch charm bracelets and pendants.

Pugster would like to thank their customers for being a part of Pugster history. They are the reason that Pugster strives for continued excellence. For a complete listing of rules, restrictions, and prize information, visit http://www.pugster.com/1million-eBay-giveaway.

Source: Pugster, Inc.

CONTACT: Jonni Taylor, +1-626-356-1881 ext. 108, for Pugster, Inc.

Web site: http://www.pugster.com/
http://www.pugster.com/1million-eBay-giveaway
http://www.ebay.com/
http://www.buysafe.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Sex Appeal Is All In A Man's Mind, Say Women

2005-09-08T03:47:00.000-07:00

Sex Appeal Is All In A Man's Mind, Say Women

LONDON, September 8/PRNewswire/ --

- Remembering Her Bra Size And Favourite Tipple Is The Key To Happiness

Men can forget about buying flowers and chocolates to win a woman's heart
as research by d8m8.co.uk has found that what a woman really wants is a man
who can remember her bra size and favourite flavour of Bacardi Breezer.

Women no longer want men with bulging biceps and six-packs and would
prefer their partner to have a good memory. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of women
think a man's mind is important to his sex appeal while unsurprisingly 41% of
men think a women's mind is not important to her sex appeal.

As ever there's a condition for men as women insist that they want their
partner to use their memory to remember intimate details about them:

- Just under a third (30%) of women are impressed when their
man buys their favourite brand of make-up, alcohol and chocolates

- Over a quarter of women go weak at the knees when their man
remembers important dates including their anniversary (28%) and birthday
(26%)

- Just under a third (29%) think it's sexy when their man remembers
their size in bra and knickers

- A quarter (25%) love it when their man remember their ring size

- Almost a fifth (18%) are happy when their man remembers their
favourite colour

Bad memory, bad luck

But before men ditch their gym membership the survey also reveals that
having a good memory doesn't come naturally to them:

- Over half (53%) of men find it difficult to remember people's
names

- Surprisingly nearly half (49%) struggle to remember jokes

- Recalling phone numbers fazes one-third (34%)

- The holy grail is out of reach as 31% find dates likes birthdays
and anniversaries hard to remember

- Passwords and pins are a stumbling block for just over a fifth
(22%)

And it gets even worse for attached men - almost one in five (18%) has
forgotten an important anniversary. As a consequence just over a fifth (22%)
has suffered cold shoulder treatment from their partner.

Eight times world memory champion Dominic O'Brien worked with d8m8.co.uk
on the research and has developed a series of techniques that men can employ
in order to improve their memories. Visit www.d8m8.co.uk to see his tips.

Of the survey Dominic O'Brien said: "Men can be lazy when it comes to
using their memory so this research will show them that the mind is a very
powerful tool that is attractive to women. What other incentive do they need
to start using it?"

D8m8.co.uk managing director Craig Gardner added: "The idea for
d8m8.co.uk came to me during a rough night's sleep in the spare room after I
had forgotten my anniversary for two year's running. I think I'm doing my bit
for mankind!"

Notes to editors:

YouGov carried out a poll of 1,929 people over two days in August 2005,
on behalf of d8m8.co.uk.

Source: d8m8.co.uk

For further information or to interview eight times world memory champion Dominic O'Brien, contact: Andrew Roache, McCann Erickson PR, T: +44-(0)121-713-3626 / +44-(0)7815-956-087, E: andrew.roache@europe.mccann.com

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Profile: Fashion

New York Spring 2006 Fashion Week Kicks Off With Ecco Domani(R) Fashion Foundation Awards

2005-09-08T02:33:00.000-07:00

New York Spring 2006 Fashion Week Kicks Off With Ecco Domani(R) Fashion Foundation Awards

Gala Soiree Celebrates Five Years of Fashion Innovation

NEW YORK, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- More than one hundred fashion luminaries, including Peter Som, Doo Ri, As Four, Mary Ping, and Richard Chai turned out this week to celebrate five years of the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation (EDFF) and to honor the industry leaders that make up its esteemed panel of judges. Since Ecco Domani Wines founded EDFF in 2001, these experts from the media and fashion retail world have awarded $450,000 to 21 emerging designers to help showcase their collections at New York's fall Fashion Week.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050908/NYTH038-ahttp://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050908/NYTH038-b )

The honorees were a stellar line-up of industry experts including Michael Bastian, Men's Fashion Director at Bergdorf Goodman; Jay Bell, Senior Buyer of Men's Designer Collections at Barneys New York; Ruth Finley, Publisher of The Fashion Calendar; Julie Gilhart, Vice President and Fashion Director at Barneys New York; Kim Hastreiter, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of Paper; Joan Kaner, Senior Vice President and Fashion Director at Neiman Marcus; Marylou Luther, Editor of The International Fashion Syndicate; Sally Singer, Fashion News/ Features Director at Vogue and Madeline Weeks, Fashion Director at GQ. Each EDFF judge received an award in recognition of his or her outstanding contribution and commitment to the fashion community.

Judge Marylou Luther, Editor, International Fashion Syndicate, commented, "The EDFF awards expose young designers to key figures in the magazine, newspaper and retail world -- the judges who spend hours studying and critiquing their work. I feel privileged to be a part of this influential group and to be able help these emerging designers break into the industry."

EDFF awards six up-and-coming designers the chance of a lifetime -- a presence at Fashion Week with $25,000 each to be used towards showcasing their fall collections in New York City. Five women's wear designers and one men's wear winner receive awards. The deadline for 2006 entries is October 15, 2005 and entry forms are available at http://www.eccodomani.com/.

For more information, please visit http://www.eccodomani.com/

Additional images available on request.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050908/NYTH038-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050908/NYTH038-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN4-PRN5
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Ecco Domani

CONTACT: Jaime Kruger of DeVries Public Relations, +1-212-891-0496, or
jkruger@devries-pr.com

Web site: http://www.eccodomani.com/

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Profile: Fashion

As States Fight Methamphetamines, Retailers Scramble to Provide Safe, Legal Cold Remedies

2005-09-08T02:23:00.000-07:00

As States Fight Methamphetamines, Retailers Scramble to Provide Safe, Legal Cold Remedies

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to fight the ongoing battle against methamphetamines, many states are passing legislation restricting the sale of drug products containing pseudoephedrine (PSE), a key ingredient in methamphetamine production. Conforming to the varying state requirements creates complexity for retailers and wholesalers alike.

Lil' Drug Store Products, Inc., a distributor of convenience-sized OTC drug products to convenience stores, airports, and hotel locations, has been a leader in providing its customers information about the new legislation and alternatives to offer consumers. The new restrictive legislation on the sale of common cold and allergy drugs containing PSE has put retailers without pharmacies at risk of losing sales because they are unable to offer consumers the products they have become accustomed to using.

In response, Lil' Drug Store Products, Inc. has partnered with Matrixx Initiatives, Inc. (NASDAQ:MTXX) to distribute Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts(TM) in a 5-count convenience sized bottle. Zicam Cold Remedy RapidMelts are formulated to reduce the duration of the common cold and they do not contain PSE. Zicam RapidMelts are cherry flavored tablets that quickly dissolve in the mouth and the 5-count size is ideal for consumers on the go. The product will be available nationwide to convenience stores, airports, and hotel locations exclusively through Lil' Drug Store Products.

"Retailers are struggling to find cold and allergy products to fill their shelves," said Paul Rossberger, Vice President of Convenience Sales and Marketing, at Lil' Drug Store Products. "We want to continue providing them with high quality, affordable items that will meet consumer needs during the cold and allergy season. The addition of familiar, name-brand items to our line, such as Zicam RapidMelts, is one more way that Lil' Drug Store Products is helping our customers through this tumultuous time."

About Lil' Drug Store:

Lil' Drug Store Products, Inc., a privately-held company founded in 1974, has more than 30 years of consumer brand sales and marketing experience. The company promotes and distributes innovative consumer products to food, drug, mass, discount and convenience stores worldwide. Product lines include convenience-sized OTC drug products, health and beauty care items, general merchandise and automotive accessories. Lil' Drug Store Products is headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and can be found on the Internet at www.lildrugstore.com .

Source: Lil' Drug Store Products, Inc.

CONTACT: Suzy Ginsburg, +1-713-721-4774, or suzy@gcomworks.com , for
Lil' Drug Store Products, Inc.

Web site: http://www.lildrugstore.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Innovative Battery Brain(TM) Device Makes Dead Car Batteries a Thing of the Past

2005-09-08T02:22:00.001-07:00

Innovative Battery Brain(TM) Device Makes Dead Car Batteries a Thing of the Past

- Easy-to-Install, Affordable Device Prevents Accidental Drain, So Car Starts Every Time -

CLIFTON, N.J., Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- It's every motorist's dreaded scenario. The battery has died -- perhaps because the lights were left on, a cell phone was left charging in the cigarette lighter, or maybe extreme weather has taken its toll. The bottom line is that your car won't start, leaving you aggravated and losing time while you wait for a jump-start, or worse, leaving you dangerously stranded.

Fortunately, there is now an easy and affordable solution, and it is aptly called Battery Brain. A small, innovative device that connects to a car's battery, Battery Brain uses advanced electronics and software to continuously monitor the charge strength of the battery. If the charge drops below a pre- programmed level, Battery Brain automatically cuts off power to anything draining the battery, ensuring that there is always enough charge remaining to start the engine.

"Battery Brain actually operates as an on/off switch between the battery and electrical system, preventing energy drainage of the battery due to electrical devices being left on, or due to an unknown short in the system," says Aharon Levinas, a mechanical and environmental engineer whose own frustration with dead batteries led him to develop the device and form a company to market it. "It also protects electronic devices in the vehicle -- such as DVD players or GPS systems -- which can be damaged if the electrical current and voltage do not remain at a constant level."

Battery Brain can be used with any engine with a conventional lead-acid battery, which includes cars, trucks, RVs, tractors, and even boats. It can be installed by any do-it-yourselfer or professional mechanic in a matter of minutes, using the vehicle's existing battery cables. Once installed, Battery Brain monitors the battery to ensure it is maintaining a sufficient charge. Should Battery Brain need to disconnect power due to excess drain, all it takes is a simple push down on the device's reset control knob to start the engine -- at which point the electric generator or alternator will recharge the battery. The Battery Brain III model comes with a remote control device to restart the battery, without having to lift the hood of the car.

Battery Brain is priced for affordability, particularly in light of the lost time, inconvenience, and money spent on a single incident of a dead battery. (The basic model retails for $39.95, and the Battery Brain III with remote control and anti-theft feature for $69.95). Smart Energy Solutions, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: SMGY) , is the sole owner of the Battery Brain line of automotive products. The company is headquartered in Clifton, N.J. and was formerly known as Datigen.com, Inc.

Battery Brain is available through a growing number of automotive accessories dealers nationwide. It may also be purchased online at http://www.batterybrain.com/.

CONTACT: Cathy Callegari, +1-212-579-1370, or callpr@aol.com, for Battery Brain.

Source: Battery Brain

CONTACT: Cathy Callegari, +1-212-579-1370, or callpr@aol.com, for
Battery Brain

Web site: http://www.batterybrain.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Secret to Teaching Children's Balance, 'Walk-O-Long,' Debuts at ABC Kids Expo September 9-12, 2005

2005-09-08T02:22:00.000-07:00

Secret to Teaching Children's Balance, 'Walk-O-Long,' Debuts at ABC Kids Expo September 9-12, 2005

Southern California Father Stumbles Upon and Perfects Harness Technology

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- The excruciating pain of back surgery laid the pipe for Southern California former plumber, Jeff Zinger, to develop the Walk-O-Long (www.thewalkolong.com) as a tool to safely lift, hold, balance and provide self confidence to his 10-month old daughter as she learned to walk. Four months later, Zinger produced a u-shaped plush roll that fits around a toddler's chest, under the arms, fastens with a snap buckle at the back and features handles at the ends just large enough for an adult hand. The simple, yet innovative invention, endorsed by *orthopedic surgeons, chiropractors, physical therapists and delivery nurses (*see list of non-paid physicians online at www.thewalkolong.com), allowed Zinger to easily lift his daughter, help her navigate stairs; take her first ride down a slide and have the confidence to ice skate at a younger age than her contemporaries. The Walk-O-Long, which comes in pink and blue Hawaiian print and solid pink and solid blue polyester micro suede and zebra and cheetah faux fur is washable, retails for $24.95. The WALK-O-LONG is available at www.thewalkolong.com for $27.95. The Walk-O-Long will debut at that ABC Children's Expo in Las Vegas September 9-12, 2005 at booth number 2138.

"The first time my wife and I took our little daughter out to the 2005 Yeah Baby Family Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center with the Walk-O-Long prototype on, we were actually asked to leave because parents were mobbing us wanting to know where to purchase the product. I suppose our product was getting more attention than the exhibitors!" the entrepreneur laughs.

The WALK-O-LONG recently caught the eye of child disability educators at The University of California, Irvine, Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), The Foundation for the Junior Blind of America and parents of children with cerebral palsy.

In addition, The Walk-O-Long prevents "nursemaid's elbow" dislocations that occur when an adult mistakenly pulls a child's arm, swings a child by its arms or a child jerks away from its caregiver.

The WALK-O-LONG, developed by Jeff Zinger and distributed by CaddyO Products in Irvine, California, is an Intertek Lab-tested and physician-approved multi-purposed balance device for toddlers to ten year olds. The Walk-O-Long can be used for teaching a child to walk, ice or roller-skate, navigate stairs, rehabilitation or bring a child to the water's edge to feed the ducks without fear. The WALK-O-LONG is also used with special needs children who require extra help in acquiring physical movement skills. It helps to prevent back injuries and strains for grandparents, caregivers, parents and rehabilitation specialists. In short, the WALK-O-LONG was developed to prevent the bumps, bruises and tears that come with growing up. The Walk-O-Long is available at children's retailers throughout the nation and at www.thewalkolong.com.

Source: Zingerz, Inc.

CONTACT: Alyson Dutch of Brown & Dutch Public Relations, Inc.,
+1-310-456-7151, for Zingerz, Inc.

Web site: http://www.thewalkolong.com/

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Profile: Fashion

First-Ever Fat to Skinny Fashion Show

2005-09-08T02:06:00.000-07:00

First-Ever Fat to Skinny Fashion Show

NEW YORK, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Extreme weight loss patients who've shed hundreds and hundreds of pounds will strut down the runway as a New York surgeon, Dominick Artuso, MD hosts a press preview and dress rehearsal for the first-ever fashion show featuring extreme weight loss patients modeling some of today's hottest fashions, Thursday, September 8th at 11:30 AM, Thirsty Turtle 201 East Post Road, White Plains, NY. These formerly obese weight loss patients will have the opportunity of wearing sexy designer clothes on the runway for the very first time.

Gastric Bypass surgery makes the stomach smaller and allows food to bypass part of the small intestine making the patient feel full more quickly and reducing the amount of food eaten and calories consumed, leading to dramatic weight loss. The Gastric Band procedure is also designed for extreme weight loss but is a less invasive process and allows for a more rapid recovery. These procedures are the hottest weight loss surgeries available on the market today and have risen over 500% in recent years. Thousands of people across the country have successfully undergone this type of procedure including celebrities like Carnie Wilson and Al Roker. Coverage invited / photographers welcome.

DATE: Thursday, September 8

TIME: 11:30 AM

LOCATION: Thirsty Turtle
201 East Post Road
White Plains, NY

Contact: Adam Mazur
TSA Public Relations
(212) 977-4647

Note: Patients photos available upon request

Source: New Image Surgical Weight Loss Center

CONTACT: Adam Mazur of TSA Public Relations, +1-212-977-4647

Web site: http://www.newimageweightloss.com/

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Profile: Fashion

UK's North Shore Animal League International Joins Forces With its Sister Charity in America to Help Victims of Hurricane Katrina

2005-09-08T00:02:00.001-07:00

UK's North Shore Animal League International Joins Forces With its Sister Charity in America to Help Victims of Hurricane Katrina

COLCHESTER, England, September 8/PRNewswire/ --

- With photo

On Monday 29 August 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf coast of
America, wreaking havoc and destruction in the states of Louisiana,
Mississippi and Alabama. In what may well prove to be the most fatal
hurricane ever to hit the US, an area of 90,000 sq miles - as large as the
whole of the Great Britain - has been declared a disaster zone. Floodwater
has covered and destroyed towns and cities, 20,000 people are still missing,
around 12,000 are feared dead, 5,000,000 people have been left without power,
and millions are now without homes. Fresh drinking water is unavailable in
most places and those lucky enough to survive are facing death from
dehydration or disease from contaminated supplies. The alligator and
snake-infested floodwaters carry bodies through what used to be streets and
towns, hampering rescue and escape attempts. The hearts of the world are with
those whose lives have been devastated beyond repair.

There are however millions of forgotten victims of Katrina - the animals.

Television coverage has recently shown images that are heartbreaking for
any animal lover - scenes of people trying desperately to rescue their pets
from the tops of trees or the attics of their submerged homes...helpless to
reach the animals they love. For others, rescue only comes if they are
prepared to leave their animals behind. Others choose to stay to share the
fate of their pets - at enormous risk.

Thousands of pets have either been abandoned when families were forced to
flee, or have been caught up in the flooding, often trapped in water-filled
homes. Many people who had no choice but to stay in the area, have been able
to take cover at public evacuation centers - but most of these do not allow
pets. Those local animal shelters that haven't been destroyed in the
hurricane, have opened their doors to provide temporary shelter for the pets
that are not permitted to stay with their families and are offering basic
veterinary facilities. These shelters are full to overflowing and, as
enforced evacuation begins to look likely, these numbers are set to soar.

The plight of the animal victims of this tragedy is great. Animals need
to be rescued and cared for. Pets need to be given veterinary treatment and
be reunited with their desperate owners, and those who have found themselves
homeless as a result of this devastation, need to be found loving homes. For
the animals waiting at home for owners who may never come back, food, water
and time is running out.

Thankfully North Shore Animal League (NSAL) is there to help. Before this
hurricane, most animal shelters in this area were already at full capacity.
The aim of North Shore Animal League's Emergency Response Team will be to
help alleviate the shelter overcrowding by transporting homeless animals to
the League and freeing up space for Katrina's animal victims. So far NSAL
have brought 130 dogs and cats out of the disaster area and they have been
rehomed - but this is just the tip of the iceberg and there are many more
that North Shore Animal League aim to rescue.

They can't do this alone - NSAL needs help to make this rescue mission
possible.

To find out more about NSAL and to donate to the Disaster Fund visit
www.petfetch.org

Note to Editors:

A high resolution photograph is available to the media of charge via the
PA Photowire and viewable at http://www.mediapoint.press.net or
www.prnewswire.co.uk

Source: North Shore Animal League

Contact: NSAL Press Officer Carolyn Menteith on +44-(0)1932-872069 or Carolyn@dogtalk.co.uk

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Profile: Fashion

Ovaltine Unveils the New Traditionalist

2005-09-08T00:02:00.000-07:00

Ovaltine Unveils the New Traditionalist

LONDON, September 8/PRNewswire/ --

- Adopting a Nostalgic Approach to Modern Life is Good for You

A new survey from Ovaltine and NOP(1) reveals an emerging
trend - the new traditionalist. She's a woman who's clued up on her vitamin
Bs and complex carbohydrates but rejects the latest food fads; is nostalgic
for the past but embraces her very own modern interpretation. She is
rejecting high fashion in favour of comfort in the home and wearing practical
classics. Knitting and cooking are deemed preferred routes for unwinding to
going out and a third of women would rather catch-up with girlfriends at each
other's homes than go out on the town.

To mark the introduction of a new, more convenient version of
the 100 year old, trusted drink Ovatline: Ovaltine Original Add Water,
Ovaltine commissioned the national survey to explore the trend among women
today who are nostalgic for the past as they strive to retain balance in
their lives.

Seven out of ten women today think 'everything' was better
fifty years ago. Two thirds (67%) feel family life was better back then,
followed by 'quality of life' (41%) and more than a third feel the food we
ate fifty years ago was better. New traditionalists mark an approach to life
that's less 'me, me' and more family. When asked, women see making sure their
family keeps well and healthy (67%) as far more important than having enough
money (15%) or having a successful career (5%). Their focus on others, also
means a third of women also feel they are less healthy than 50 years ago
(32%). When asked what they thought was better today than 50 years ago,
'working life' was sited most frequently (62%).

New traditionalists seek elements in their lifestyles that are
rooted to the past for comfort and assurance:

- Nearly a quarter of women surveyed said Ovaltine inspires
feelings of nostalgia and comfort - especially in the North East (34%) and
Scotland (33%). Hovis bread also proved popular, particularly - as you might
expect - in Yorkshire.

- Women like to cook and entertain at home. More than eight
out of ten women said they regularly prepare meals at home (84%) and over
half regularly cook a Sunday lunch for family and friends (53%). A fifth of
women also regularly invite people to their home for afternoon tea - with
more than a third of those living in the North East most likely to be
afternoon socialites (31%).

- When asked which of a number of household activities they'd
like to do to unwind, again, the top response was cooking - with nearly six
out of ten (61%), while half also said they find gardening relaxing. More
than a third of women questioned living in the North (35%) said they like
cleaning the house.

- 52% of women knit - but it was women living in the South
that win hands down in crafts. They are the most likely in the country to be
dab hands at knitting (69% do so), crochet (36%) and almost half of those
living in the South, alongside women living in the West Country (46%), can
make clothing.

- Over a third of women (37%) and top choice throughout
Britain was to socialise with their girlfriends at home rather than go out.

- When it comes to fashion, more than seven out of ten women
(72%) adopt a buying approach aligned to 'comfort and practicality'. More
than half (51%) are inspired by the likes of Kate Moss to wear a 'combination
of high street, designer and vintage' - especially those women living in the
North East (65%).

- More than three quarters (77%) of women say 'comfort'
epitomises their approach to home décor - as opposed to minimalism and
antiques. 'Combining modern and vintage' also proved highly popular (54%).

Renowned lifestyle commentator and author of 'Domestic Bliss'
Rita Konig comments:

"As our daily lives get more frenetic, there seems to be a
stronger leaning towards the vintage styles and traditional values of past
generations.

"New traditional is hot right now - in food, in interiors and
in fashion - and the growing popularity of classic brands such as Ovaltine
clearly reflects this trend."

While yearning for past values, the new traditionalist female
understands the latest in nutrition and is incredibly savvy on what's good
for you and what's not. Nearly all women (91%) know folic acid is very good
for pregnant women and 92% of those surveyed understood that complex
carbohydrates slowly release energy into the body. They also clearly
appreciate the benefits of Vitamin Bs, with over half surveyed responding
correctly on how this group of nutrients aid health.

Explains Claudia Salazar-Lewis of Ovaltine:

"Ovaltine has been around for 100 years and it's always been
routed in nutrition. We were therefore particularly delighted that, when
presented with a list of hot drinks, the vast majority of women - nearly two
thirds (65%) - chose Ovaltine as offering the most nutritional benefits.

"The inventor of Ovaltine Dr Wander created the drink in the
early 20th century with the aim of contributing to improved child health. It
contains 11 vitamins, four minerals and complex carbohydrates that make
Ovaltine a perfect 'pick me' up throughout the day as it satisfies and slowly
releases energy. It's also an incredibly rich source of folic acid and
Vitamin Bs and doubles the amount of calcium contained in one glass of
Ovaltine Original with milk - than semi skimmed milk on its own.

"This survey really showed us that women today yearn for
nostalgic and trusted elements that are as good as they've always been and
Ovaltine very much complements this social phenomenon," ends Salazar-Lewis.

Find further information on Ovaltine's range of wholesome and
delicious products on www.ovaltine.co.uk

Reference:

(1) Ovaltine New Traditionalist Survey with NOP, September 2005. The
national survey covered 500 women aged 25 to 45 years old.

Editor's notes

New Ovaltine Original Add Water is available from supermarkets
nation-wide in 300g jars, priced from GBP1.89 and single serve sachets at 25
pence. It complements the existing range of Ovaltine Original (served with
milk) and Ovaltine Chocolate Add Water.

Rita Konig

Rita Konig was editor-at-large on Harpers and Queen. In August 2000,
'Rita Says', Rita's idiosyncratic domestic tips column, was first published
in British Vogue and continued until August 2004. Rita remains a regular
contributor for the magazine.

In September 2002 her first book, Domestic Bliss, How to Live was
published by Ebury Press in London.

In March 2003 she started to write for the Saturday Telegraph Magazine
where she has a regular weekly column called 'Living It Up'.

Source: Ovaltine and NOP

For further information on the Ovaltine NOP new traditionalist survey, the Ovaltine range of products and photography, please contact Sara Jensen or Natalie Bushay at Talk PR on +44(0)207-544-3856/3645 or saraj@talkpr.co.uk / natalieb@talkpr.co.uk

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Profile: Fashion

The Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund Event Kicks Off on Friday, September 9 at the Juniper Suite, in New York at 9:30PM/ET

2005-09-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

The Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund Event Kicks Off on Friday, September 9 at the Juniper Suite, in New York at 9:30PM/ET

Proceeds From The Night Will Go To The Red Cross

NEW YORK, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Block Party Entertainment Presents "SUITE 44" Fridays at the Juniper Suite 44 West 56th Street (bet. 5th & 6th Aves.). Suite 44 is New York City's only weekly lounge party event dedicated to the Tri-states' upscale and sophisticated party goers and social elite. Help yourself this Friday and at the same time help others as we donate proceeds from the night to the Red Cross for The Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund.

Block Party Entertainment brings you "SUITE 44" at the exclusive 2-level venue in mid-town Manhattan, the Juniper Suite 44 West 56th Street (bet. 5th & 6th Aves.). There are many parties to go to, but only one you should be at on Fridays that will bring you the SEXY ambiance and modern interior with a striking multi-level space, perfect for an ideal private event, equipped with 2 bars, a fireplace and a secluded seating area. Music by X Factah's own DJ June and DJ Mighty Mighty along with a variety of NYC's Hottest DJs.

JUNIPER SUITE 44 West 56th Street (bet. 5th & 6th Aves.)
Doors Open 10PM - 4AM
2 For 1 Drink Specials From 10PM to 11PM!
Ladies Free B4 1AM Gents Reduced B4 1AM w/ RSVP!
Jeans Are Okay For Both Men & Women! No Sweat Pants, Du-rags, etc.
Sexy Chic Attire Preferred ...

Table Rsvp! Birthday Parties and Group Reservations Available.
Receive a 25% Discount on All Dinner Reservations.
For More Info/Table Service/or RSVP Contact:
Block Party Entertainment: (Tommy)
thomas.mouscardy@mtvstaff.com (212) 767-3950 and (212) 696-6598

The Juniper Suite has the space of a Night Club with a laid back lounge Atmosphere. This promises to be an evening of great Music, with Plenty of Dancing!

BLOCK PARTY ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS

What: "Suite 44"
Where: JUNIPER SUITE
West 56th Street (bet. 5th & 6th Aves.)
New York, NY
When: Friday, September 9, 2005, and Every Following Friday
Time: Doors Open 10:00PM/ET - 4:30PM/ET
Cover Charge: Ladies Free B4 1AM Gents Reduced B4 1AM w/ RSVP!
Attendance: 250+
Scene: Night Club with a laid back lounge Atmosphere. This
promises to be an Evening of Great Music, & Plenty of
Dancing!

***For up-to-the-minute information and the most current Hip Hop and Comedy, visit the PLATINUM CITY Web site at http://platinum-city.com/ ***

Source: Block Party Entertainment

CONTACT: Tommy M. for OUT DA BOX ENTERTAINMENT, +1-212-767-3950,
+1-212-696-6598, Thomas.mouscardy@mtvstaff.com

Web site: http://platinum-city.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy Offer Discounts to Katrina Survivors

2005-09-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy Offer Discounts to Katrina Survivors

Gap Inc. Encourages Impacted Employees to Contact Company

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- As part of Gap Inc.'s ongoing relief effort for Hurricane Katrina, all Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy and Gap Inc. Outlet stores will offer a 15% discount on all merchandise to customers from areas impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Customers are required to show a valid Alabama, Louisiana or Mississippi identification card and the discount will be applied through October 31, 2005.

"At times like this, it's important that we all do what we can to support those in need," said Gap Inc. CEO and President Paul Pressler. "We hope this is a first step in helping people recover some of what they've lost."

More than 1,300 Gap Inc. employees have been affected by the hurricane. The company is working to confirm their safety as well as to let them know about available company-sponsored assistance such as housing and clothing allowances and additional pay. If they have not already done so, employees are asked to contact the company at 1-866-411-2772, ext. 20600, option 1, followed by option 4; or to visit the corporate Web site, www.gapinc.com, and click on Hurricane Katrina Relief.

In addition to the support being provided to Gap Inc. employees, the company has committed $1 million dollars to disaster relief through Gap Foundation. As part of this commitment, the company is providing a double-match for all employee donations to the American Red Cross. Gap Inc. employees are also donating their vacation time to help their colleagues who need to take more time away from work due to the Hurricane.

About Gap Inc.

CONTACT: Sarah Anderson, 415-427-3458.

Source: Gap Inc.

CONTACT: Sarah Anderson, 415-427-3458, for Gap Inc.

Web site: http://www.gapinc.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Charlotte Russe Assists With Katrina Relief Effort

2005-09-07T12:14:00.000-07:00

Charlotte Russe Assists With Katrina Relief Effort

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Charlotte Russe Holding, Inc., a San Diego based public company, and its employees are assisting those impacted by Hurricane Katrina by providing certain discounts on their purchases, raising funds to assist our employees who have been displaced, and making a contribution to the American Red Cross Hurricane 2005 Relief fund.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030602/CHICLOGO )

Effective immediately, and until further notice, customers with valid Louisiana and Mississippi identification will be entitled to receive a 40% discount on their purchases at Charlotte Russe and Rampage stores located in the southern states. In addition, a matching gift program has been established to raise funds to support our employees who were directly impacted by this tragic event and to raise funds to support the American Red Cross relief efforts. The company will be matching up to 100% of the money raised by its employees.

The "Charlotte Russe" stores offer fashionable, affordable apparel and accessories that have been tested and accepted by the marketplace, thus appealing to women who prefer established fashion trends. The "Rampage" stores feature trendsetting apparel and accessories and thus appeal to women with a flair for making fashion statements and who want runway-inspired fashion, quality and value.

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995: Except for the historical information contained herein, this press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including, but not limited to general and regional economic conditions, industry trends, consumer demands and preferences, competition from other retailers and uncertainties generally associated with women's apparel and accessory retailing. A complete description of these factors, as well as others that could affect the company's business, is set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 5, 2005, and any amendments thereto.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030602/CHICLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Charlotte Russe, Inc.

CONTACT: Jason Sigala, Marketing, Charlotte Russe, Inc.,
+1-858-490-2658

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Profile: Fashion

Leo Gregory Wins Armani Mania Man of the Year 2005

2005-09-07T10:07:00.000-07:00

Leo Gregory Wins Armani Mania Man of the Year 2005

LONDON, September 7/PRNewswire/ --

- With photo

This year the winner of the Armani Mania Man of the Year 2005
is the British Actor and newcomer, Leo Gregory. Gregory wins one of the most
prestigious and sort-after awards of the evening at this years GQ Men of the
Year Awards in association with Armani Mania. The winner of this award must
be presented to a man who like the fragrance embodies a combination of
masculinity, charisma and style.

Gregory has recently played the part of a vicious, jilted
football thug in Green Street, and will also be starring in the new Rolling
Stones movie 'Stoned' which premiers later this month where he plays the
fifth Rolling Stone.

Leo Gregory joins a pantheon of Armani Mania men; in 2002 the
award went to swashbuckling hero Ioan Gruffudd, the home-grown star of Man
and Boy. The following year, the award celebrated the self-confidence and
determination of the then England goalkeeper David James. Clive Owen's turn
came in 2004, the year he starred in the award winning film Closer.

"I am honoured to be presented the award as Armani Mania Man of
the Year. To be acknowledged by a brand & designer who epitomizes luxury and
style is mind-blowing". Leo Gregory

Armani Mania, Giorgio Armani's signature fragrance, is the
perfect match for these men. The trio of attributes shared by them -
masculinity, individuality and character - is picked out in the blend of
sweet citrus, sensual amber and musk, and rich woody textures in the scent.
With its elegant understated style it is everything you would expect from an
Armani creation.

GQ Men of the Year Awards, in association with Armani Mania,
is now in its eighth year. The annual Awards have become the most significant
stocktaking of talent in the UK. Hosted by the witty Rory Bremnar, this
year's star-studded party, staged at the prestigious Royal Opera House,
acknowledged the talents of 21 male icons and one internationally renowned
female.

Note to Editors:

Armani Mania is available in exclusive department stores and Boots
nationwide.

A high resolution photograph of Leo Gregory is available to the media
free of charge at http://www.newscast.co.uk (Tel: +44-(0)207-7608-1000)

Source: Giorgio Armani Parfums

For further press information, on GQ Men of the Year in association with Armani Mania please contact Victoria Hobbs / Anna Slade on Tel: +44-(0)20-8762-4377 / 4243, Vhobbs@uk.loreal.com / Aslade@uk.loreal.com

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Profile: Fashion

Mervyns Announces New Business Strategy

2005-09-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

Mervyns Announces New Business Strategy

Company Focuses On Its Long, Proud History of Serving Customers in the West and Southwest

HAYWARD, Calif., Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of a new business strategy, Mervyns announced today that it is focusing on the high-growth West and Southwest markets and its strong profitable foundation of 193 stores in 10 states. Mervyns will increase its investment in existing store operations, information technology and infrastructure in California, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and parts of Colorado and Texas.

Mervyns will concentrate on its solid base of stores in the West and Southwest, and close 62 underperforming stores that represent a significant drain on the Company's overall profitability. The stores identified for closure have not been profitable in several years, and although they comprise approximately 25% of all Mervyns' stores, they represent only 17% of total sales.

As one of the first promotional neighborhood department stores, Mervyns understands the lifestyles and needs of busy families. The Company has a long and proud history of serving customers in the West and Southwest and will continue to satisfy their expectations by delivering a balanced assortment of the best quality national and private-label brands, timely fashion that is well-stocked, exceptional values and a convenient shopping experience.

"Concentrating resources on our stores in the West and Southwest will allow Mervyns to be more competitive and to serve our customers and communities better than ever," said Vanessa Castagna, executive chairwoman of the Mervyns' board of directors. "The new business strategy will enable us to invest in the future, improve our merchandise, facilities and the overall value we offer shoppers. In fact, customers are already excited about the changes we have been making in our stores."

Mervyns plans to invest in its core markets by making improvements to existing store operations, refurbishing stores, implementing new technology and systems throughout the company and other operational upgrades. In addition, Mervyns will also look for opportunities to open new stores in locations that will benefit its business, customers and the community.

"I've followed Mervyns closely over the years, and am proud of the fact that it is still synonymous with providing good value, giving back to the community and continues to be a great place to shop," said Mervin Morris, founder of Mervyns. "The Company is in good hands with bright, talented professionals who really know the retail business, and I look forward to watching it grow."

By February 2006, Mervyns will exit the Michigan and Oklahoma markets, and parts of Colorado, Louisiana and Texas. It will also close three stores, one each in Southern California, Oregon and Utah and two distribution centers, one each in Plano, Texas and West Valley, Utah. Until that time, these stores will continue operating as usual, with new merchandise arriving at the stores throughout the fall and holiday seasons.

A total of 1,200 full time and 3,600 part-time positions will be affected by the closures. All affected associates were notified this morning of the plan to close the stores. Associates will continue to be employed during the closing process, and Mervyns will offer job placement assistance and severance packages to eligible employees.

About Mervyns

Mervyns LLC, headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, is a family- friendly promotional neighborhood department store offering trend-right fashions and home decor for the entire family at affordable prices. With 255 locations in 13 states, Mervyns has a well-earned reputation for its extensive selection of national and private-label fashions and housewares. Community giving has been a cornerstone of the company's business since 1949, with a focus on improving the lives of children and families by giving back to educational programs in its communities. For a list of store locations, or for additional information, visit Mervyns' Web site at http://www.mervyns.com/ .

Source: Mervyns LLC

CONTACT: Mervyns Media Hotline, +1-800-633-1712, Online Newsroom,
http://newsroom.mervyns.com/, Password: n3wsr88m

Web site: http://www.mervyns.com/

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Profile: Fashion

The Catwalk Comes to the Sidewalk of Times Square in NYC

2005-09-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Catwalk Comes to the Sidewalk of Times Square in NYC

StyleLounge Brings Styles On The Runway For All New Yorkers To See During Spring 2006 Fashion Week

NEW YORK, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- StyleLounge -- www.styleloungenyc.com, This season StyleLounge will bring the runways out to the street into the center of Times Square. The fashion shows in New York kick off a month-long journey around the globe for designers to unveil their much-anticipated Spring 2006 collections. StyleLounge is a one-stop destination for Spring 2006 New York City Fashion Week and will be centrally located at Times Square Studios this season, just blocks away from the Bryant Park tents. These events have become an all out glamfest, with pre-parties, after-parties, spas and swag suites, all made possible by LIVEstyle Entertainment, a leading marketing and event production company, (www.livestylent.com).

Runway shows are the hottest ticket in town during Fashion Week, but on Saturday, Sept. 10, StyleLounge is making fashion available to everyone. David Rodriguez and Andrew Harmon will debut their Spring 2006 collections at the first-ever indoor/outdoor runway, extending out onto the sidewalk of 43rd Street and Broadway. This season, the StyleLounge offerings to the Fashion elite will also include live runway broadcasts on the Times Square Reuters(R) Media Board to the tens of thousands of Times Square pedestrians.

INVITED CELEBRITIES INCLUDE: Andy Roddick, Dita Von Teese, Andre Agassi, Karri Turner, Amy Carlson, Gretchen Mol, Lenny Kravitz, and more ...

WHEN: Friday, September 9, through Sunday, September 11

WHERE: Times Square Studios located at 1500 Broadway at 44th St.

WHO: Friday September 9 - StyleLounge launch
7:00pm - Victor De Souza
9:00pm - 11:00pm Rodarte - fashion installation and launch party

Saturday September 10, 2005

12:00pm - David Rodriguez

2:30pm - Mercury Milan Press Opportunity

6:00pm - Harmon

9:00pm - 12:00am Patricia Field's Handbag launch party

Sunday, September 11, 2005

3:00 pm - Caroline Hedaya by Donna and Caroline

6:30pm - Sweetooth Handbags

featuring AG Adriano Goldschmied Jeans and

KODAK EASYSHARE V550 AND V530 DIGITAL CAMERAS

8:00pm - 11:00pm - ELLEgirl / Major Models/Kodak - after party

Sponsors include: EVIAN(R) Natural Spring Water, Eastman KODAK Company, Mercury Milan from Ford Motor Company, JetBlue Airways, Brizo, FaceAtelier, HAIclassic and HAIelite, Hanes Perfect Panty(R), Hotel Collection, Sweetooth by Chelsea, Monster Energy Drink, Coca-Cola, Amaro by Modna, Players Extreme Liquors

Advertising will be featured in: ELLE, ELLEgirl, ELLE DECOR, and American Photo

Source: Evolutionary Media

CONTACT: Jennifer Gross, Jennifer@EMGPR.com, or Tiffany Caronia,
Tiffany@EMGPR.com, both for Evolutionary Media Group +1-323-658-8700

Web site: http://www.styleloungenyc.com/
http://www.livestylent.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Jaclyn, Inc. Announces Grant of Option for the Sale of Office and Warehouse Facility

2005-09-07T07:14:00.000-07:00

Jaclyn, Inc. Announces Grant of Option for the Sale of Office and Warehouse Facility

WEST NEW YORK, N.J., Sept. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Jaclyn, Inc. (AMEX:JLN) today announced that it has granted to a third party an option relating to the sale of the Company's executive offices and warehouse facility, as well as two adjacent lots, located in West New York, New Jersey. As previously announced, Jaclyn currently uses approximately one-half of the 140,000 square foot West New York facility (the remainder having been leased to third parties), and has been looking at opportunities to move to a space more suitable for its present and future needs.

The proposed purchase price is $10,000,000, the substantial portion of which is payable at closing. The option contract provides the optionee an initial 90-day diligence period, during which time the optionee has the absolute right not to proceed with the proposed transaction, as well as up to an additional 11 months to obtain approval from all applicable governmental authorities for the use of the property as residential housing. Under certain circumstances, the Company also has the right to decide not to proceed with the proposed transaction. The proposed transaction is also subject to a number of contingencies and conditions, including the governmental approvals mentioned above, the optionee's receipt of a mortgage commitment, the completion of environmental testing and compliance, and other contingencies and conditions.

The option contract also permits Jaclyn and its tenants to remain in the West New York facility for up to five months after any closing. As Jaclyn also previously announced, it anticipates that if the proposed transaction is consummated, it would move to another site in the vicinity of its present location.

Jaclyn noted that it has entered into an option contract only, and there is no assurance that a sale of the property will be concluded.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements that are being made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company's actual performance and results may vary as a result of a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, both foreseen and unforeseen, including general economic and business conditions, competition in the accessories and apparel markets, continuing favorable sales patterns, pricing and consumer buying trends.

Jaclyn, Inc. is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of apparel, women's sleepwear, infant's and children's apparel, handbags, premiums and related accessories. Our web site is at http://www.jaclyninc.com/ ._

Source: Jaclyn, Inc.

CONTACT: Anthony Christon, Chief Financial Officer of Jaclyn, Inc.,
+1-201-868-9400

Web site: http://www.jaclyninc.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Feature News Briefs for September 7, 2005

2005-09-07T06:46:00.000-07:00

Feature News Briefs for September 7, 2005

New Pain Relief Post-Surgery

An established pain reliever for post-surgical pain may soon be available as an injection for patients unable to swallow tablets or pills. Innovative Drug Delivery Systems is in the final stages of testing Dyloject in its injectable form, which the company says has a proven safety record when taken orally. CEO Dr. Daniel Carr calls the study a "vital first step in changing the face of pain therapy." Historically, drugs like Dyloject, which is a form of diclofenac, have been used to treat pain from such ailments as osteoarthritis, gout, kidney stones, as well as post-surgical procedures and traumatic injuries. http://www.idds.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=3015813&packageid=10067 61.

Virus May Help Treat Brain Tumors

A common virus may become a potent weapon to treat brain tumors. Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham will test the experimental cancer therapy Reolysin to treat gliomas, some of the most aggressive and deadly brain tumors. The studies are sponsored by Oncolytics Biotech. Researchers are going to test the ability of Reolysin to kill brain tumor cells without harming adjacent normal cells and tissues. The treatment is intended to work without causing the nausea, hair loss and other adverse side effects common to radiation and chemotherapy. According to the American Brain Tumor Association, more than 190,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with a brain tumor every year. http://www.oncolyticsbiotech.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=3015812&packageid=10067 61.

Air Ambulance Aids Travelers and Wallets

Travelers who need to be evacuated by air ambulance can be on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars in costs that need to be paid up front. To help those injured avoid pain in their wallets, the Air Ambulance Card provides travelers with prepaid transportation domestically and abroad to the hospital of their choice. A recent survey for the Chubb Group revealed that suffering a medical emergency was the biggest travel concern for 73.5 percent of Americans. Air Ambulance Card memberships are $195 annually for individuals, $295 for families. http://www.airambulancecard.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3019632.

Americans Hot To Iron

Irons are being pressed into service for more than just shirts and pants nowadays. A 15-city survey by iron manufacturer Rowenta reveals that irons are smoothing out pillowcases, panties and even term papers and tennis shoes. Moreover, ironing boards have sometimes been replaced by such items as buckets, bathtubs and barstools. Nearly 40 percent of respondents said they liked ironing, which is sometimes combined with such activities as singing, dancing and praying, while 25 percent confessed to ironing their clothes while wearing them. Others reported a tastier form of multi-tasking: using the iron to make a grilled-cheese sandwich. http://www.rowentausa.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3019646.

Support Weekends for Women Touched by Cancer

Many women are overwhelmed by the isolation, emotional stress and financial hardships that can follow a cancer diagnosis. How to cope will be explored at the Stonyfield Farm StrongWomen Summits, sponsored by organic yogurt maker Stonyfield Farm and health educator LLuminari. Women with cancer, cancer survivors and those caring for someone with cancer, can hear about new treatments, preventing recurrence, strength from diet and exercise and stress management. Breast cancer expert Dr. Susan Love calls the sessions a "platform for women to listen to other strong women and be inspired by them." Summits are scheduled in La Jolla, Calif., Oct. 29-30 and in the New York area, Nov. 4-5. http://www.strongwomen.com/summit/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=FNS&reso urceid=3015817&packageid=1006761.

Broadway Shows Blind Patrons Can 'See'

Now, blind theater lovers can "see" the color and action of Broadway. Currently at "Wicked," and soon at "Mamma Mia," they can wear a small earpiece and hear a running description of the visual action and color from choreography, blocking, costume and set changes. Theatrical sound designer T. Richard Fitzgerald calls these crucial visual cues, for example, a trap door opens or an actor slides down ropes. Fitzgerald is CEO of Sound Associates which introduced the D-Scriptive service for the blind, following the success of I-Caption, a wireless, handheld visual display of lyrics and dialogue for the deaf, and multilingual translation service, ShowTrans, for non-English speakers, both also available at "Hairspray." http://www.soundassociates.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3022022.

"Deadbeat Vigilante" Says Pay Up

Michael Webb intends to rally "honest working people" to crusade against those he says are costing the nation nearly $3 trillion. He believes millions will join the fight against welfare wasters, CEOs who take big bonuses while laying off workers, lazy employees, politicians who use public funds for political benefit and those who file frivolous lawsuits. He details the cost in his book "The Cost of a Deadbeat." The North Carolina pharmacist and business leader says, "We need to mobilize those who pay the bills to halt the spreading deadbeat plague. Tolerance breeds acceptance." Supporters can register at http://www.anti-deadbeat.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3024038.

Animal Rights in Antiquity

Animal-rights causes go back to the 11th century, say rabbis Dan Bridge and Anson Laytner. They have written "The Animals' Lawsuit Against Humanity," which is believed to be the first English adaptation of a medieval Hebrew version of an ancient Iraqi tale. The animals are portrayed as beings that can think and complain about how people reject their attempts to work together. It is important, says Bridge, because "how we treat animals has a direct bearing on how we treat one another." That message also resonates in the book's creation, which became a multi-faith effort. Their Kentucky publisher, who is a Sufi Muslim, hired a Christian copy editor, and a Muslim illustrator, whose work was underwritten by a Saudi princess. http://www.fonsvitae.com/.

Full text: http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/latest.jsp?beat=BEAT_FEATURES&view=LATEST&r esourceid=3024031.

PRNewswire -- Sept. 7

Source: PR Newswire

Web site: http://www.prnewswire.com/features

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Profile: Fashion

Copeland Sports Returns to Walnut Creek With Cutting-Edge New Store

2005-09-07T06:42:00.000-07:00

Copeland Sports Returns to Walnut Creek With Cutting-Edge New Store

Newly-remodeled Concord Store to Participate in Grand Opening Activities Also

WALNUT CREEK, Calif., Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Copelands' Enterprises, Inc. today announced the Grand Opening of its newest Copeland Sports store in Walnut Creek, California, marking the company's long-awaited return to the area.

"We are excited to return to Walnut Creek," said Joe Fernandez, president and chief executive officer of Copeland Sports. "And now that we're back-and better than ever -- we want as many people as possible to see how our top brand name equipment, accessories, footwear and apparel make Copeland Sports a great place to shop."

The ribbon-cutting for the new store will occur on Thursday, September 8th at 9:30 a.m. The store is located in the Main Street Plaza at the intersection of California & Boethel in Walnut Creek. The grand opening will run throughout September and into the fall and features grand prizes and giveaways in every department.

The 17,000 square foot store offers top brand name gear for men, women and kids in several departments including athletics, fitness, and outdoor activities. New features include cycling, a full-service footwear department with the revolutionary i-fit technology, and an expanded boardshop. Plus, the Copeland Sports golf shop in Walnut Creek is the first in the company to offer the state-of-the-art "Launch Monitor" swing analyzer.

The nearby Copeland Sports store in the Sun Valley Mall in Concord, California has recently been remodeled and re-merchandized and will also participate in the grand opening activities and prizes. Additionally, the Concord store will host an appearance by "Thunder" the Golden State Warriors' mascot, as well as the team's Cheerleading Squad from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 11.

Unlike the typical approach to sporting goods retail, Copeland Sports offers value-added services and programs such as bike and skateboard repair and service, professional golf instruction and club-fitting, home delivery, team discounts, and home gym design and layout advice.

"By drawing on our past experience in Walnut Creek and Concord, we're able to provide services and merchandise in our stores that match the local needs," said Mr. Fernandez. "This attention to customer preferences demonstrates our commitment to delivering top-quality sporting goods and excellent service at a great value."

Mike Chen, the Copeland Sports Walnut Creek store manager said, "It's great to have Copeland Sports back in Walnut Creek and we're really looking forward to actively participating in the community. We'll have a full slate of partnerships with local schools, sports associations and recreational areas. In fact, we're proud to be a major sponsor of the new skate park that's opening in November in Walnut Creek," Mr. Chen added that the store will employ 50 local employees.

About Copeland Sports

Headquartered in San Luis Obispo, California, Copelands' Enterprises operates 37 Copeland Sports stores and one distribution center in California, Oregon, Nevada and Utah. Copeland Sports is the premier sporting goods retailer in its markets, offering top brand name equipment, accessories, footwear and apparel in specialty shops including athletics, boardshop, cycle, fitness, golf, outdoor and women's -- all under one roof and at excellent values. For store hours and addresses, please visit www.CopelandSports.com.

Source: Copeland Sports

CONTACT: Barbara Murphy, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, of
Copeland Sports, +1-805-543-0660, or bmurphy@CopelandSports.com

Web site: http://www.www.copelandsports.com/

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Profile: Fashion

BabyGap Teams up With Lifestyle Experts MiGi to Host the Ultimate Baby Showers for Expectant Moms Across America

2005-09-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

BabyGap Teams up With Lifestyle Experts MiGi to Host the Ultimate Baby Showers for Expectant Moms Across America

Ten Lucky Moms-To-Be Across the Country Will Win a Very Special Baby Shower

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- This week, babyGap announces the kick off of the Ultimate babyGap Shower contest, its first national contest for expectant moms. BabyGap has enlisted the help of lifestyle experts and Martha Stewart Living alums Michele Adams and Gia Russo, known as MiGi, to help create an incredibly special and elegant baby shower program. The MiGi girls, who have written several books including Baby Showers (published by Chronicle Books), have a strong design background and elegant contemporary style, making them the perfect pair to help babyGap design and produce the Ultimate babyGap Showers for ten lucky winners.

"This is a dream chance to win a dream baby shower. We're thrilled to have the expertise of Gia and Michelle to make these events special for expectant moms across the country," said Jeff Jones, executive vice president, Gap Marketing. "The Ultimate babyGap Shower program is a great opportunity for us to celebrate moms-to-be, while showing our customers why babyGap is the premier destination for finding the most special baby gifts."

The Ultimate babyGap Shower contest, which runs from September 1 through October 6, 2005, invites people across the country to enter for a chance to win a very special, luxurious baby shower celebration for an expectant mom. Ten lucky winners across the country will be awarded an extravagant and elegant baby shower celebration for a special mom-to-be and 30 guests.

Inspired by babyGap's style of casual luxury, the Ultimate babyGap Showers, designed by MiGi, will be elegant and simple, created to provided mom and guests with a spa-like experience. Each baby shower will include a GapMaternity wardrobe and styling session for mom-to-be. There will also be special treats for guests including heavenly spa treatments such as massages, manicures and pedicures, as well as gourmet food, delicious drinks and decadent desserts. Each baby shower guest will also receive a gift bag filled with must-haves items from Gap and GapBody goodies like lotions and candles.

"Michele and I are thrilled to be working with an iconic brand like babyGap," said Gia Russo of MiGi. "They have the sweetest, most adorable baby clothes which make the perfect gifts for any baby or mom-to-be."

Stay tuned for more information on contest winners and Ultimate babyGap Showers being held in select cities later this year. For high-resolution imagery please contact Katie Molinari at 415-427-3989.

About BabyGap:

Through more than 1,000 stores in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan and France, babyGap sells clothing and accessories for newborns, infants and toddlers. In the US, customers can shop the babyGap online stores at www.babygap.com.

About MiGi:

Known together as "the MiGi girls," entertaining experts Michele Adams and Gia Russo are hosts of the Fine Living show The Art of the Party and authors of several lifestyle books. Additionally, MiGi are spokespeople for and provide content to Amazon Weddings, Amazon.com's destination for wedding planning and registry.

Former editors at Martha Stewart Living, Adams and Russo worked on every aspect of more than 50 stories, developing them from conception and research to styling and production. Their thoroughness and refined sensibilities earned them honors from the American Society of Publication Designers.

In 1999 they ventured out on their own, forming a design and lifestyle company called MiGi (a combination of their first names). Their first two books, Wedding Showers and Baby Showers, were followed by At Home with Friends, which was listed on the Amazon.com bestsellers list and was nominated for a Gourmand International Award.

Adams and Russo are currently working on a new book and developing a line of lifestyle products. Recently they have appeared in numerous magazines, including Lucky, O Magazine, InStyle, Good Housekeeping, Lifetime, Sunset, and Angeleno.

CONTACT:
Katie Molinari
Gap PR
415-427-3989

Source: Gap Inc.

CONTACT: Katie Molinari of Gap, Inc., +1-415-427-3989

Web site: http://www.gapinc.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Fairchild Bridal Group Hosts Hundreds of Brides-to-Be for 'Wedding March New York' at the Harold Pratt House

2005-09-07T06:19:00.000-07:00

Fairchild Bridal Group Hosts Hundreds of Brides-to-Be for 'Wedding March New York' at the Harold Pratt House

Publishers of BRIDES, MODERN BRIDE & ELEGANT BRIDE Invite Brides-to-Be to Experience Luxe Shopping and Informational Extravaganza Featuring Appearances by Bridal Industry Superstars Preston Bailey, David Tutera, Mindy Weiss, and More

Exclusive 'Not-to-be Missed Saturday Night' Party to be Held at Brand-New Manhattan Location of Kleinfeld Bridal

NEW YORK, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Due to the overwhelming success of the Wedding March on Madison here, at The Magnificent Mile in Chicago, and on South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, CA, The Fairchild Bridal Group will host Wedding March New York at The Harold Pratt House on Saturday, September 17, 2005. Festivities will begin on Friday evening, September 16th, with a private "Around the World Kick-Off Party" at The Harold Pratt House (located at 58 East 68th Street) and conclude Saturday evening with a private party at the new location for Kleinfeld bridal salon at 100 West 20th Street.

Wedding March New York is more than a traditional bridal expo, offering hundreds of local brides-to-be rare opportunities to meet with leading industry experts and style-setters. Attendees receive VIP passes to discuss, view, and sample the most chic and sophisticated resources for bridal fashion, beauty, gift registry, home, and accessories, plus the hottest restaurants, caterers, stationers, cosmetics boutiques, hotels, and spas. Event sponsors include Barneys New York, Cartier, Kleinfeld, Korbel, Amarula, Mirassou, and American Express Establishment Services.

No other bridal event offers such exclusive access to the top sources of style and know how when it comes to weddings. Wedding March New York will feature appearances by BRIDES and MODERN BRIDE editors and more than twenty bridal industry gurus including Preston Bailey, Yifat Oren, Sasha Souza, David Tutera, Sylvia Weinstock and Mindy Weiss.

Guest registration begins at 8:00 am on Saturday, September 17th where guests will take part in celebrity seminars and panel discussions. The informative bridal seminars and panel discussions with special guest speakers will take place throughout The Pratt House starting at 9:30 am and ending at 5:30 pm. Hundreds of brides-to-be and their guests will be invited to personalize their own schedules, choosing from a line-up including seminars and panels, retail events, private shopping experiences, and one-on-one gift registry and bridal salon appointments, all included for an admission fee of $125.

That evening, a "Wedding March" signature event, the "Not-To-Be Missed Saturday Night Bridal Party", takes place at the new location of Kleinfeld, from 6:30-8:30 pm. Travel dreams may come true for some lucky brides-to-be when honeymoons to the most romantic destinations are given away during the course of the evening.

"After taking the Wedding March to Chicago's chic Miracle Mile and Southern California's upscale shopping center, South Coast Plaza, it seems natural to hold the latest New York event in our most elegant location yet," according to Daniel Lagani, Vice President and Publisher of the Fairchild Bridal Group. "The Pratt House is the perfect site for Wedding March New York to spotlight the best in the bridal business. This event will serve as the template for future Wedding Marches the Fairchild Bridal Group will take to cities across the country next year."

Prospective attendees can register and buy tickets for Wedding March New York online at http://www.brides.com/weddingmarch where they can also review Wedding March New York schedules and information. Tickets are also available by calling 866-WED-2005. The Fairchild Bridal Group publishes BRIDES, MODERN BRIDE and ELEGANT BRIDE.

Source: Fairchild Bridal Group

CONTACT: Margo Donohue of Fairchild Publications, Inc., +1-212-630-5815,
margo.donohue@fairchildpub.com

Web site: http://www.fairchildpub.com/
http://www.brides.com/weddingmarch

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Profile: Fashion

Ready to Get Wild?

2005-09-07T02:23:00.000-07:00

Ready to Get Wild?

Wild Bunch Wines Are Released Nationwide

ST. HELENA, Calif., Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Imagine if you could bottle The Boss. Or decant James Dean. Maybe snag a good Hendrix riff and have it ready for a live show at the twist of a screw cap.

Welcome to Wild Bunch, a spankin' new pair of wines from California's Montevina Winery. This stuff is about to take you for a ride.

What the Heck is Wild Bunch?

Wild Bunch represents everything that's cool about these new California wines. The blends are wild (69% Zin, 25% Syrah and 6% Barbera for the red wine; 41% Chardonnay, 38% Chenin Blanc, 9% Pinot Grigio, 7% Muscat, and 5% Sauvignon Blanc for the white). The label design is more Harley than Hamptons. The wines have never seen a cork - they'll always have screw caps. Winemaker Chris Leamy has purple hair. That's wild, and that's us.

And the wine? It's seriously good stuff, and makes us feel like we can be wine lovers and hard rockers at the same time. Wild Bunch is our attitude about life. Live it. Be smart, but don't think too much. Work hard. Keep your music loud. Don't be afraid to wear leather and get psyched to try new things. And always, always live life like you're on your last glass. We think there's a little bit of Wild in everyone. Our wine is gonna bring it out.

Wild Bunch rocks 'n' retails for only $9.99, and is set for national distribution beginning September 1. Ten thousand cases of each wine were produced. Customers can check them out at their favorite supermarkets, wine shops and restaurants nationwide.

For more scoop on Wild Bunch, visit www.wildbunchwines.com. For further media needs, please contact Mira Bieler at 415-885-0574 or mira@routas.com.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050907/SFWFNS1 )

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050907/SFWFNS1
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Wild Bunch

CONTACT: Mira M. Bieler for Wild Bunch, +1-415-885-0574, or
mira@routas.com

Web site: http://www.wildbunchwines.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Harvard Health Publications Offers Family Disaster Planning Guide

2005-09-07T02:22:00.000-07:00

Harvard Health Publications Offers Family Disaster Planning Guide

BOSTON, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- No matter where you live in the United States, you are vulnerable to some sort of natural disaster such as a blizzard, earthquake, flood, hurricane, or tornado. Both natural disasters and terrorist attacks can disrupt power, communication, and transportation for days or even longer.

It is best to be prepared in advance so that if a disaster occurs, you know what to do and have the supplies you need on hand. The editors of the Harvard Health Publications division at Harvard Medical School have created a guide for helping households prepare for disaster. The plan covers:

1) Collecting disaster supplies
2) Creating a portable supply kit
3) Developing and practicing an emergency plan

It also includes information on what to keep in your first-aid kit and what to do when disaster strikes.

The guide can be downloaded free at http://www.health.harvard.edu/disaster. Readers are also encouraged to share the plan with friends and family.

Source: Harvard Health Publications

CONTACT: John Lacey, +1-617-432-0442, public_affairs@hms.harvard.edu, or
Ed Coburn, +1-617-432-4716, Ed_Coburn@hms.harvard.edu, both of Harvard Health
Publications

Web site: http://www.health.harvard.edu/

EDITORS' ADVISORY: You may download and republish portions of the plan, in whole or in part, with attribution. You may also download the PDF to post on your site, provided that you do not charge readers to download it, and that it is properly attributed.

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Profile: Fashion

LA GEAR Helps Victims of Katrina Get Back on Their Feet

2005-09-06T18:29:00.000-07:00

LA GEAR Helps Victims of Katrina Get Back on Their Feet

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- LA GEAR and its parent company ACI INTERNATIONAL based out of Los Angeles, CA has donated in excess of 100,000 pairs of shoes to The Salvation Army to aid those affected by hurricane Katrina. The footwear company is overwhelmed and saddened by the tragedy and feels compelled to help those in dire need of assistance. LA GEAR hopes that this donation will be one small step forward for people who are in the midst of such confusion and suffering. Senior Vice President of Marketing and Advertising Jay Jackson explains, "This is such a tragedy what has happened with Hurricane Katrina. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone that was affected by this awful natural disaster. We want to give back in any way we can to help the families rebuild their lives." The footwear company understands how important it is that these survivors have clean, new shoes, something that they can provide quickly through the assistance of The Salvation Army.

As people move to safety and begin to understand what has happened, those at LA GEAR and ACI INTERNATIONAL hope that someday soon everyone involved can begin to rebuild their lives, plan for the future and start anew.

About ACI International:

Headquartered in Los Angeles, ACI INTERNATIONAL has been a leading manufacturer, distributor and marketer of men's, women's and children's footwear brands for over thirty years. Focused on building footwear brands for long-term growth and stability, ACI INTERNATIONAL successfully designs and markets athletic as well as casual/fashion brands throughout all channels of retail distribution.

ACI INTERNATIONAL is the owner/licensor of the LA GEAR brand (footwear, apparel, accessories, etc.) as well as the footwear licensee for such global brands as OP, Ocean Pacific, Shaquille O'Neal's SHAQ Dunkman and Starter, and is the children's footwear licensee for such well respected entertainment companies as Warner Bros., Nickelodeon, Dreamworks & 4Kids Entertainment.

In addition, ACI INTERNATIONAL provides a full range of design and sourcing services to several other globally-recognized footwear brands.

Source: LA GEAR

CONTACT: Tiffany Yeager Greer, +1-323-632-6143, or Shawn Glasser,
+1-310-451-2870, both of Mirror Mirror PR, for LA GEAR

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Profile: Fashion

Shoe Carnival Collecting Donations for Hurricane Katrina Relief

2005-09-06T15:30:00.000-07:00

Shoe Carnival Collecting Donations for Hurricane Katrina Relief

EVANSVILLE, Ind., Sept. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Shoe Carnival, Inc. (NASDAQ:SCVL), a leading retailer of value-priced footwear and accessories, has announced that all Shoe Carnival stores will be accepting monetary donations to the American Red Cross for the Hurricane Katrina relief effort. Titled the Hurricane Relief Fund, customers and visitors to the store can donate any amount they wish at any register at all Shoe Carnival locations. One hundred percent of the funds collected will go to the American Red Cross.

Shoe Carnival is a chain of 265 footwear stores located in the Midwest, South and Southeast. Headquartered in Evansville, Ind., Shoe Carnival trades on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol SCVL.

CONTACT: Sean Georges
8233 Baumgart Road
Evansville, IN 47725
www.shoecarnival.com
(812) 867-4801

Source: Shoe Carnival, Inc.

CONTACT: Sean Georges of Shoe Carnival, Inc., +1-812-867-4801

Web site: http://www.shoecarnival.com/

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Profile: Fashion

J.Crew Opens in The Northlake Mall

2005-09-06T15:07:00.000-07:00

J.Crew Opens in The Northlake Mall

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Sept. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- J.Crew announced plans to open their long awaited 158th store in The Northlake Mall in Charlotte. Located in the center's premier position -- this 5,500 square foot store will open on September 15th, 2005 coinciding with the grand opening of the mall.

"J.Crew loves North Carolina -- Between the culture and the natural beauty of the community, The Northlake Mall has enabled J.Crew to become a part of one of North Carolina's most sophisticated and dynamic destinations," states Jeff Pfeifle, President of J.Crew.

This new location will offer strong presentations of both men's and women's full collections, including J.Crew classics, sportswear and accessories. The men's and women's product assortment will include a considerably expanded color palette and beautiful fabrics from the finest mills in Italy.

While all of J.Crew's stores have a flagship feel, the new Northlake location called for a richer store environment, to create a symbiotic relationship and connection to the community. The second floor location enables the brand to embrace the active lifestyle of our J.Crew customer.

The store concept, furniture, and fixturings designed by and manufactured exclusively for J.Crew, utilize sustainable American natural materials such as cherry and walnut woods, as well as beige limestone flooring. While recognizably J.Crew, the new classic design represents a subtle shift towards the more traditional shopping atmosphere.

J.Crew Group, Inc. is a leading retailer of men's and women's apparel, shoes, and accessories -- original designs offering classic American style with a twist. J.Crew reaches customers though its iconic catalog, online at jcrew.com, and in 158 retail stores nationwide with plans to open 2 more by the end of 2005.

The Northlake Mall
6801 Northlake Mall Drive #266
Charlotte, NC 28216

Source: J.Crew

CONTACT: Heather Lynch of J.Crew, +1-212-209-2611

Web site: http://www.jcrew.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: For more information or to request samples, please call Heather Lynch at J.Crew, (ph) 212-209-2611, (fx) 212-209-2501, or email hlynch@jcrew.com

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Profile: Fashion

Blair Corporation Appoints Larry Pitorak of Tatum Partners as Interim Chief Financial Officer

2005-09-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

Blair Corporation Appoints Larry Pitorak of Tatum Partners as Interim Chief Financial Officer

WARREN, Pa., Sept. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Blair Corporation (AMEX:BL), (http://www.blair.com/), a national multi-channel direct marketer of women's and men's apparel and home products, today announced the appointment of Larry Pitorak, of Tatum Partners, a national professional services firm which provides senior financial leadership, as the Company's interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) effective September 6, 2005.

As a Tatum Partner since 2002, Mr. Pitorak has worked with retailers, manufacturers and distributors which have benefited from his over 25 years of financial management and legal experience including investor relations, international business and banking relations, tax and treasury, intellectual property, takeover protection, litigation tactics, strategy and management, as well as SEC reporting and proxy solicitation. Previously, he served as CFO, Senior Vice President-Finance, and Treasurer of The Sherwin-Williams Company, a $5 billion global manufacturer with headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio.

"Larry has been recognized for his success in continuous improvement activities, as well as a proven leader and mentor," said John E. Zawacki, President and CEO. "I am looking forward to his partnership as we strive to further strengthen our financial position."

The Company appointed Mr. Pitorak as interim CFO, with the recent resignation of Bryan J. Flanagan, Senior Vice President and CFO.

ABOUT BLAIR

Headquartered in Warren, Pennsylvania, Blair Corporation sells a broad range of women's and men's apparel and home products through direct mail marketing and its Web sites http://www.blair.com/ and http://www.irvinepark.com/. Blair Corporation employs over 2,000 associates (worldwide) and operates facilities and retail outlets in Northwestern Pennsylvania as well as a catalog outlet in Wilmington, Delaware. The company, which has annual sales of approximately $500 million, is publicly traded on the American Stock Exchange (AMEX:BL). For additional information, please visit http://www.blair.com/.

This release contains certain statements, including without limitation, statements containing the words "believe," "plan," "expect," "anticipate," "strive," and words of similar import relating to future results of the Company (including certain projections and business trends) that are "forward- looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, changes in political and economic conditions, demand for and market acceptance of new and existing products, as well as other risks and uncertainties detailed in the most recent periodic filings of the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

CONTACTS:
Blair Corporation
Terry Darling / Communication Manager
Theresa Ruby / VP of Cultural Change, Communications & HR
814-723-3600

Source: Blair Corporation

CONTACT: Terry Darling, Communication Manager, or Theresa Ruby, VP of
Cultural Change, Communications & HR, both of Blair Corporation,
+1-814-723-3600

Web site: http://www.blair.com/
http://www.irvinepark.com/

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Profile: Fashion

Leo Gregory Wins Armani Mania Man of the Year 2005

2005-09-06T13:33:00.000-07:00

Leo Gregory Wins Armani Mania Man of the Year 2005

LONDON, September 6/PRNewswire/ --

- Winners Announcement

This year the winner of the Armani Mania Man of the Year 2005 is the
British Actor and newcomer, Leo Gregory. Gregory wins one of the most
prestigious and sort-after awards of the evening at this years GQ men of the
Year Awards in association with Armani Mania. The winner of this award must
be presented to a man who like the fragrance embodies a combination of
masculinity, charisma and style.

Gregory has recently played the part of a vicious, jilted football thug
in Green Street, and will also be starring in the new Rolling Stones movie
'Stoned' which premiers later this month where he plays the fifth Rolling
Stone.

Leo Gregory joins a pantheon of Armani Mania men, in 2002 the award went
to swashbuckling hero Ioan Gruffudd, the home-grown star of Man and Boy. The
following year, the award celebrated the self-confidence and determination of
the then England goalkeeper David James. Clive Owen's turn came in 2004, the
year he starred in the award winning film Closer.

Armani Mania, Giorgio Armani's signature fragrance, is the perfect match
for these men. The trio of attributes shared by them - masculinity,
individuality and character - is picked out in the blend of sweet citrus,
sensual amber and musk and rich woody textures in the scent. With its elegant
understated style it is everything you would expect from an Armani creation.

GQ Men of the Year Awards, in association with Armani Mania, is now in
its eighth year. The annual Awards have become the most significant
stocktaking of talent in the UK. Hosted by the witty Rory Bremnar, this
year's star-studded party, staged at the prestigious Royal Opera House,
acknowledged the talents of 21 male icons and one internationally renowned
female.

Note to editors: Armani mania is now available in exclusive department
stores and Boots nationwide.

Source: Giorgio Armani Parfums

For further press information, on GQ Men of the Year in association with Armani Mania please contact: Victoria Hobbs/Anna Slade on Tel: +44(0)20-8762-4377/4233 Vhobbs@uk.loreal.com / Aslade@uk.loreal.com GIORGIO ARMANI PARFUMS - 255 HAMMERSMITH ROAD - LONDON W6 8AZ TELEPHONE: +44(0)-8762-4040 - FAX: +44(0)-8762-4001

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Profile: Fashion