retail Archives – Page 5 of 7

Nordstrom Men’s Store NYC opens in New York

April 12, 2018

Men's Clothing at Nordstrom Men's Store NYC (Photo courtesy of Nordstrom, Inc.) — Men’s Clothing at Nordstrom Men’s Store NYC (Photo courtesy of Nordstrom, Inc.)

[EDITOR’S NOTE: Nordstrom will open its main location in New York City in the Central Park Tower at 217 W. 57th Street. The Central Park Tower, which began construction in 2014, is expected to be completed in 2020.]

The following is a press release from Nordstrom:

Nordstrom, Inc. (NYSE: JWN) opened the doors this morning to its very first flagship, full-line New York City location and first ever stand-alone men’s store at 235 West 57th Street. The three-level 47,000 square foot store offers a differentiated merchandise assortment across all categories, including popular and designer brands, along with a range of convenient services to serve customers on their terms.

EXCLUSIVE MERCHANDISE CONCEPTS

Comme des Garcons shop at Nordstrom Men’s Store NYC (Photo courtesy of Nordstrom, Inc.)

Olivia Kim, Nordstrom vice president of creative projects has curated a special Comme des Garçons (CDG) shop that will feature one of the largest local selections of the fashion house’s coveted brands. Olivia commissioned artist Marc Hundley to design a space that invokes both the ethos of CDG and the streets of New York City. In a first for Nordstrom, the men’s flagship will also feature designer shops by Calvin Klein, Balenciaga, Valentino, and Dior. Each space is united by a chainmail motif, but are distinguished by personalized fixtures adhering to each brand. The shoe department houses a Christian Louboutin shop displaying a wide range of the shoemaker’s sporty and formal offerings. The Nike Men’s Project, a sportswear and shoe destination for style and fitness-obsessed customers, will offer the brand’s latest sneakers and apparel collections.

The store also features an array of customization and personalization experiences, including the Levi’s Tailor Shop, where customers can shop Levi’s Authorized Vintage, one of the largest vintage denim collections in existence, and also design custom embroidery on any item, heat press a shirt or get an express hem while they wait; Shinola will offer watch customization in addition to a selection of tech products; exclusive to the flagship, Samuelson Custom Suit Visualizer is an interactive digital made-to-measure suiting experience at an accessible price point; Eton Endless Aisle is a digital touchscreen offering an expanded assortment of dress shirts and ties; and cult-favorite Le Labo will create personalized fragrance labels in the grooming department.

To celebrate the Nordstrom opening, brands have created limited-time exclusives, such as Cole Haan NYCH, a curated quarterly collection only available for 30 days, exclusive denim fit and wash options from Rag & Bone, Paige, AG Jeans, Citizens of Humanity, an exclusive camo jacket by Canada Goose and footwear from Timberland and Magnanni.

BRAND ASSORTMENT

Calvin Klein Boutique at Nordstrom Men’s Store NYC (Photo courtesy of Nordstrom, Inc.)

Customers can shop a comprehensive selection of apparel brands across a broad range of price points, including Adidas, Carhartt WIP, Rodd & Gunn, Stone Island, Death to Tennis, Norse Projects, Lemaire, Moncler, Canali, Topman, Ted Baker London, Hugo Boss, Giorgio Armani, Tiger of Sweden and Givenchy. The accessories department houses brands like Foundwell, Ray Ban, Moscot, Mykita, Prada and Loewe. The vast shoe department will include Reebok, Common Projects, Vans, Alden, Church’s, Salvatore Ferragamo, Balenciaga, Gucci and exclusives from Greats and Jack Erwin.

The grooming department will introduce to the U.S., barber-created Murdock London, who will be sending barbers to New York for special appearances. Saturdays NYC will launch product alongside brands like Proraso, Kiehl’s, Tom Ford Grooming and exclusive Ted’s Grooming Room by Ted Baker London. An extensive fragrance selection will include options from Parfums de Marly, By Killian, Chanel, Valentino, Prada, Armanicorpor, Dior and many others.

SERVICE AND EXPERIENCE

Christian Louboutin shop at Nordstrom Men’s Store NYC (Photo courtesy of Nordstrom, Inc.)

Nordstrom is committed to serving customers on their terms and the Men’s Store will offer a number of shopping services that provide convenience, speed and ease. At each store entrance shoppers will find Express Returns kiosks, plus Style Boards, 24/7 Buy Online & Pick-Up in Store, Reserve Online & Try in Store and Three-Hour Same Day Delivery anywhere in Manhattan, all which seek to bridge the convenience of online shopping with the personal experience of the store. Shoppers will have access to 24/7 Express Services during all hours for fashion emergencies like lost luggage or items that went unpacked, in addition a cell phone charging station, expert Shoeshine, an onsite Alternations & Tailoring department, and Complimentary Personal Stylists.

In the Clubhouse Bar customers can treat themselves to a drink or meal, while taking in intimate views of Central Park and Columbus circle. Hand-crafted cocktails, a selection of fine wines, as well as carefully selected snacks with seasonality in mind, including warm toasts, indulgent melts and a signature lobster roll developed by Nordstrom Chefs will be available. The Coffee Shop will feature Toby’s Estate Coffee, a small batch roaster based in Brooklyn, serving unique handcrafted drinks by skilled baristas. As an added twist, the coffee bar will also offer draft beer on tap in addition to a section of local pastries.

Levi’s Tailor Shop at Nordstrom Men’s Store NYC (Photo courtesy of Nordstrom, Inc.)

The Nordstrom Men’s Store NYC features the company’s newest store design concepts, including an all-glass façade to bring in more natural light, unboxing the display windows, and connecting the shopping experience to the city. An open, flexible floor plan allows for an evolving curation of how products are displayed over time, depending on what New York customers respond to. The store environment will create a sense of discovery, allowing customers to navigate easily and find new brands they haven’t experienced before.

Nordstrom has been a longtime believer of investing in artwork for its stores. New Yorkers will experience an extensive collection, featuring 39 works by both international and American artists, with a quarter being local. Suspended in the center of a three-story staircase, a floating, diaphanous tree sculpture entitled “Arctic Tree” by the Seattle-based artist John Grade is a nod to the retailer’s Seattle roots.

COMMUNITY

Nike Men’s Project at Nordstrom Men’s Store NYC (PRNewsfoto/Nordstrom, Inc.)

Nordstrom believes we have a responsibility to give back to the communities we serve, so each year we donate 1% of our gift card sales to worthy nonprofits in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. Our contributions most often take the form of a cash grant, but we are also proud to partner with local and national organizations through specific giving programs and by volunteering our time and resources.

As part of our Men’s Store opening and as we continue to expand our presence in the New York metro area we have committed $5 million dollars to NYC over the next three years. To stay true to our Nordstrom Cares mission we plan to support a number of programs and organizations that care for kids and empower youth, as well as those that have a significant impact on the community. In the coming months, Nordstrom will be forming a NYC Community Advisory Board to attract, vet and award community grants. We are proud to announce our first grant will be to the Hetrick-Martin Institute, the nation’s oldest, and largest, organization supporting gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth to reach their full potential.

ABOUT NORDSTROM
Nordstrom, Inc. is a leading fashion retailer based in the U.S. Founded in 1901 as a shoe store in Seattle, today Nordstrom operates 370 stores in 40 states, including 122 full-line stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico; 236 Nordstrom Rack stores; two Jeffrey boutiques; two clearance stores; seven Trunk Club clubhouses; and its Nordstrom Local service concept. Additionally, customers are served online through Nordstrom.com, Nordstromrack.com, HauteLook and TrunkClub.com. Nordstrom, Inc.’s common stock is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol JWN.

Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor hit with security breach of bank cards

April 3, 2018

by Maria Fiero

Saks Fifth Avenue Wellery (Photo courtesy of Justin Bridges Photography)

Upscale fashion retailers Saks Fifth Avenue and Lord & Taylor have been computer-hacked for North American customers’ credit cards and debit cards, according to an announcement made by Hudson’s Bay Company, the stores’ Toronto-based parent. A minimum of about 125,000 customers have had their card information released so far by JokerStash, the underground hacking group that is taking responsibility for the security breach. JokerStash says that as a result of this hacking, it plans to release and/or sell information for about 5 million cards.

Reuters reports that the security breach does not appear to be for online sales but rather for sales made at the physical stores. Hudson’s Bay says that it will not hold card owners responsible for any fraudulent charges that result from the security breach.

Hudson’s Bay released a statement that read in part: “Once we have more clarity around the facts, we will notify our customers quickly and will offer those impacted free identity protection services, including credit and web monitoring.”

Saks Fifth Avenue unveils new beauty floor in New York flagship

May 22, 2018

The following is a press release from Saks Fifth Avenue:

Saks Fifth Avenue today opens the new, 32,000-square-foot beauty space on the second floor of the New York Flagship with more than 120 color cosmetics, skincare, fragrance and wellness brands —58 of which are new to the floor. With a significant focus on experiences, the floor is approximately 40-percent larger and now includes 15 new spa rooms along with services such as medi-spa treatments, facials, massages, manicures, brow services, a flower shop and more. By moving the Beauty department to the second floor, Saks is evolving the way customers shop and experience beauty.

“As part of Saks’ overall growth strategy, we continue to look for ways to innovate, create and disrupt. The bold decision to move Beauty to the second floor, from the traditional main floor model, allowed us to build a one-of-a-kind destination enabling Saks to create the epitome of an experiential beauty floor,” said Marc Metrick, president, Saks Fifth Avenue. “We continue to apply the principles of what we call The New Luxury to everything we do. What we’ve done with Beauty gives the customer a warmer environment, differentiated from what they can get anywhere else and creates a reason to come to Saks and experience our brand.”

“What makes this new beauty concept special is the exclusive services and unparalleled offering of brands we are providing to our clients. We curated the floor to represent the best innovations in beauty and wellness in a truly specialized space,” said Tracy Margolies, Chief Merchant, Saks Fifth Avenue. “By offering beauty and wellness workshops and panels, Saks is taking a holistic approach to make our clients feel great both inside and out.”

EB Florals at Saks Fifth Avenue New York, Beauty on 2 (Photo by Justin Bridges for Saks Fifth Avenue)

STORE DESIGN
The new beauty floor is the latest step in the New York flagship’s Grand Renovation. Saks redefined the department store concept with the revolutionary migration of Beauty from the main floor to the second floor. The Saks Store Planning and Design team, in collaboration with Gensler, spearheaded the design focusing on opening up the space, creating broad sightlines across the floor and modernizing traditional finishes that complement the brand’s heritage. The team used custom agglomerate white stone flooring from Italy throughout and restored original windows facing Fifth Avenue, 49th Street, and 50th Street, allowing natural light to the floor and north and south facing views of the city.

FaceGym at Saks Fifth Avenue New York, Beauty on 2 (Photo by Justin Bridges for Saks Fifth Avenue)

TREATMENTS AND EXPERIENCES
Saks curated exciting treatments and luxury experiences for customers with services including:

FaceGym, the original non-invasive facial workout, exclusive to Saks and the first shop in the United States.
Dedicated spa rooms for CHANEL, Clé de Peau Beauté, Dior, Kiehl’s Since 1851, La Mer, La Prairie, Martine de Richeville, SKINNEY MedSpa and Sisley Paris.
Brow and lash styling by Blink Brow Bar London, CoolSculpting and laser hair removal by SKINNEY MedSpa and manicures and meditation by sundays.
Martine de Richeville‘s signature slimming, deep-tissue massage, Rémodelage, —a Saks exclusive and brand-first space in the United States.
Hand-tied floral arrangements by EB Florals, revolving around the composition of the fragrances and their seasonal availability.

Gucci at Saks Fifth Avenue New York, Beauty on 2 (Photo by Justin Bridges for Saks Fifth Avenue)

BRANDS
Anchor shops Aesop, CHANEL, Christian Louboutin Beauté, Dior, Giorgio Armani, Givenchy, Gucci, Kiehl’s Since 1851, La Mer, La Prairie, Sisley Paris, and Tom Ford, brought new concepts to Saks featuring the latest in technology or exclusive designs. Highlights include:

First of its kind CHANEL spa room modeled after the CHANEL au Ritz Hotel Spa in Paris.
Dior spa room modeled after the Dior Institut at the Plaza Athenée in Paris.
Ex Nihilo Osmologue for demi bespoke fragrances.
Gucci’s first new beauty concept store in the United States.
A Guerlain Parfumeur boutique offering 110 iconic creations where visitors can choose their own scent through a digital consultation and personalize their own bottle.

Nearly all makeup and skincare brands at Saks provide a selection of complimentary services, known as “Beautiful Discoveries” including mini facials, eye treatments, hand massages, makeup and skincare coaching, and more. The floor will offer exclusive fragrances from Bond No. 9, By Kilian, Clive Christian, EB Florals, Ex Nihilo, Hermès, Roja Dove and more as well as feature an Apothecary concept including a 160-square-foot curated boutique of niche beauty products and expert favorites from 30 brands. Saks Fifth Avenue will launch new and exclusives brands including Orveda‘s gender-neutral range with 18 highly innovative and unique products as well as Floraïku, luxury fragrance inspired by Japan, and Valmont skincare and fragrance.

Apothecary at Saks Fifth Avenue New York, Beauty on 2 (Photo by Justin Bridges for Saks Fifth Avenue)

SERVICE
The department boasts a dedicated concierge who can direct visitors to specific brands, shops or products and book treatments. Clients can also easily reserve services on Saks.com. SaksFirst Beauty members can pick up their quarterly rewards at the beauty concierge counter and a beauty curator is available onsite to assess a customer’s skin and recommend skincare treatment options.

EVENTS
Saks New York will host a series of beauty and wellness events in its 850-square-foot flexible event space with industry influencers, ranging from noted doctors to fitness empire founders and more. The space will also host master classes, public appearances, small private gatherings and visual installations.

Saks New York is located at 611 Fifth Avenue at 50th Street, and is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For additional information on the new location, visit the Saks New York store and events page on saks.com.

Fragrances at Saks Fifth Avenue New York, Beauty on 2 (Photo by Justin Bridges for Saks Fifth Avenue)

FULL BRAND MATRIX
Acqua Di Parma, AERIN Beauty, Aesop, Alexander McQueen, Amouage, Angela Caglia, Annick Goutal, Art Meets Art, Artis, Balenciaga, Blink Brow Bar London, Bobbi Brown, Bond No. 9, Bottega Veneta, Bulgari, Burberry, By Terry, Care/of, Cartier, Cellcosmet, Chanel, Chantecaille, Chloé, Christian Dior, Christian Louboutin, Christophe Robin, Chuda, Cire Trudon, Clarins, Clé de Peau Beauté, Clinique, Clive Christian, Creed, Decorté, Diana Vreeland, Dior, Diptyque, Dolce & Gabbana, D.S. & Durga, Dyson, EB Florals, Estée Lauder, Ex Nihilo, FaceGym, Floraïku, Foreo, Frédéric Malle, GHD, Giorgio Armani, Givenchy, Glow Recipe, Gucci, Guerlain, Hermès, Histoires De Parfums, Hotel Couture, House of Sillage, Jason Wu, Jo Malone London, Kiehl’s Since 1851, Kilian, L’Artisan Parfumeur, La Mer, La Prairie, Lancer Skincare, Lancôme, Laura Mercier, Le Labo, Leonor Greyl, MAC, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Mancera, Marc Jacobs, Mario Badescu, Martine de Richeville, Marvis, Mason Pearson, Molton Brown, Montale, Moroccanoil, Mugler, Narciso Rodriguez, Nars, Natura Bissé, NEST Fragrances, Omorovicza, Ormonde Jayne, Orveda, Patchology, Penhaligon’s, Philip Kingsley, Prada, Proenza Schouler, R+Co, Raincry, ReFa, RéVive, Rodial, RODIN olio lusso, Roja Dove, Rossano Ferretti, Sakara Life, Salvatore Ferragamo, Serge Lutens, Shiseido, simplehuman, Sisley Paris, SK-II, SKINNEY MedSpa, Slip, sundays, Supergoop!, Tammy Fender, Tata Harper, The Perfumer’s Story, Tiffany & Co., Tom Ford, Trish McEvoy, Valentino, Valmont, Viktor & Rolf, Vilhelm Parfumerie and YSL.

ABOUT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE (@saks)
As a leading shopping destination for the all-channel luxury experience, Saks Fifth Avenue is renowned for its coveted edit of American and international designer collections as well as its storied history of creating breakthrough, experiential environments. Its exemplary client service has made Saks a global authority in the category, a focus since the brand’s inception in 1924. As part of the HBC brand portfolio, Saks operates in 41 stores across North America, its online experience―saks.com, and its mobile experience―Saks App.

For more information, kindly visit saks.com, Instagram.com/saks, Facebook.com/saks, Snapchat.com/saks_official, and Twitter.com/saks,

Toys ‘R’ Us is closing or selling all of its stores in the U.S. and U.K.

March 14, 2018

Toys R US

by Patricia Garrett

Toys “R” Us (which also owns Babies “R” Us) will be closing or selling all of its U.S. and U.K. stores, the company has announced. Toys “R” Us currently has about 1,600 stores worldwide, with about 880 of those stores in the United States. According to the New York Times, about 30,000 jobs in the U.S. will be affected by the closures, which are expected to be completed before the end of 2018. The news of the closures comes after Toys “R” Us filed or Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2017. The company owes about $5 billion in long-term debt.

Founded in 1948, Toys “R” Us reigned for many years as the world’s leading retailer for toys. The company was known for its Geoffrey giraffe mascot and for an advertising jingle that featured the saying, “I don’t want to grow up. I’m a Toys “R” Us kid.” In recent years, the company’s business was significantly eroded by competitors such as Amazon and Walmart, which have been able to offer larger inventories of toys and bigger discounts. According to several published reports, the holiday 2017 shopping season was disastrous for Toys “R” Us and was the final nail in the coffin for the company.

Although the Toys “R” Us brick-and-mortar stores will be closing, the Toys “R” Us brand could still live online, since the company is weighing several offers to buy the brand. If the Toys “R” Us brand name is sold, it will very likely be used for an online retail business.

Bebe relaunches its brick-and-mortar retail business with first lifestyle retail store in New York City

March 13, 2018

Jasmine Sanders in Bebe’s “BeYouBebe” campaign (Photo courtesy of Bebe Brand)

After closing its brick-and-mortar retail stores in 2017, Bebe has now relaunched its brick-and-mortar retail business as more of a lifestyle center. Here’s the press release from Bebe:

The bebe^® brand (“bebe”), known for its chic contemporary fashion, today announced the grand opening of its first lifestyle retail store in New York City. Through the new concept store, bebe will bring its loyal community new and personalized experiences in an elegant, modern space curated to meet the needs of today’s shoppers.

Located in the heart of Manhattan at 1 West 34^th Street, between 5^th and 6^th Avenues, the store sits adjacent to the Empire State Building and will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The new store also features a bold bebe sign made of 38,000 Swarovski crystals.

The new concept store features:

A Beauty Bar through a partnership with beGlammed, a leading on-demand beauty service, enabling shoppers to have their hair and makeup done on-site.
A Personalization Bar giving shoppers an opportunity to customize every item, from jeans to jackets, using Swarovski crystals, patches and embroidery.
A Lounge where Bebe will host interactive discussions and engaging educational events with top influencers and fashion industry insiders. On weekends, a live DJ will spin the hottest tracks and remixes from around the globe.
On-site stylists help shoppers define their personal style and wardrobe through an array of confident, sexy and modern clothing, including party-ready dresses, denim and tops. Shoppers can even order from the website using the in-store iPads.

“Every area of our elegant, modern store space has been thoughtfully designed to bring shoppers an experience personalized to them at an accessible price, whether they’re just hanging out, picking up an outfit for an evening or event, or looking for personalized tailoring, styling and service,” said Sandra Campos, Co-President of Women’s Apparel, Contemporary Brands, at Global Brands Group. “We’re thrilled to bring our loyal bebe community an exciting, modern shopping environment where they can engage with the bebe brand in a way that is convenient, highly-personalized and fun.”

“We are excited about the grand opening of the bebe store and introducing consumers to a new lifestyle concept. bebe is about leading trends in the industry and we have incorporated this concept into the new store by offering the latest fashions, in-store embroidering and beauty services where consumers can leave the store looking fabulous,” stated Ralph Gindi, COO of Bluestar Alliance, which forged a partnership with bebe stores in 2016 to create new licensees and product extensions for the brand. “It’s a fresh perspective to engage our loyal and new consumers of the brand.”

On Thursday, March 15, bebe will host a special evening event to celebrate the grand opening of the new store. Jasmine Sanders and celebrity DJ Vashtie will be on hand for the celebration, which promises music and excitement. Partygoers will also enjoy mingling with stars, top influencers and the who’s who of the fashion industry.

About bebe^® brand
Unique, sophisticated and timelessly sexy, bebe emerged as the first contemporary fashion destination in 1976. Today, bebe continues to define next-generation chic while staying true to its assertive, provocative origins. Inspired by Shakespeare’s immortal words “To be, or not to be,” the brand is, at its essence, about living, standing out and truly existing. www.bebe.com

About Global Brands Group Holding Limited
Global Brands Group Holding Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 0787) is one of the world’s leading branded apparel, footwear and fashion accessories companies. The Group designs, develops, markets and sells products under a diverse array of owned and licensed brands and a wide range of product categories.

Global Brands’ innovative design capabilities, strong brand management focus, and strategic vision enable it to create new opportunities, product categories and market expansion for brands on a global scale. In addition, the Group is the global leader in the brand management business through its joint venture, CAA-GBG Brand Management Group. For more information, please visit the corporate website: www.globalbrandsgroup.com.

SOCIAL MEDIA:
facebook.com/bebe
instagram.com/bebe_stores
twitter.com/bebe_stores

Crocs announces new collections from Drew Barrymore

February 1, 2018

The following is a press release from Crocs:

Crocs, Inc. (NASDAQ: CROX), a global leader in innovative casual footwear for women, men and children, has announced the worldwide debut of its Drew Barrymore ♥ Crocs Color-Block Collection. The line, which includes special-edition footwear styles for women and children, was designed in partnership with Drew Barrymore, an ambassador for the brand’s “Come As You Are” campaign.

Featuring fresh combinations of white, navy and yellow and custom-designed embellishments, Color-Block links the bold look that consumers love about Crocs with design touches that speak to Barrymore’s personality and style. The exclusive collection is available on popular Crocs silhouettes, including the Classic Clog, the Crocband™ Clog and the Crocs Sloane Slide.

“When it came to designing my first ever footwear collection with Crocs, I was inspired by love, positivity and the little quirk – or quirks, in my case – that makes each of us unique,” said Barrymore, the Golden Globe Award-winning actress, producer, director, cosmetics line creator, author and mother. “Working together on these Drew Barrymore ♥ Crocs styles was a genuine labor of love and I’m excited to share a piece of my one-of-a-kindness with the world.”

Crocs is also thrilled to welcome Barrymore back as one of three ambassadors for the evolution of its “Come As You Are” campaign in 2018. Anchored in optimism, versatility and comfort, “Come As You Are” celebrates uniqueness and individuality, and, most importantly, what it means for everyone to be comfortable in their own shoes.

Crocs Drew Barrymore — In addition to the Crocband Clog, the Drew Barrymore ♥ Crocs Color-Block collection includes a Crocs Classic Clog for women and children, as well as two Crocs Sloane Slides. (Photo courtesy of Crocs, Inc.)

“Drew is unapologetically optimistic and delightfully positive, and we think those traits, which are also central to our brand philosophy, shine throughout the Drew Barrymore ♥ Crocs Color-Block Collection,” said Michelle Poole, Crocs Sr. Vice President of Global Product and Marketing. “These styles do a great job capturing Drew’s spirit while offering our consumers a fresh, stylish take on several of our iconic Crocs silhouettes for women and children.”

The Drew Barrymore ♥ Crocs Color-Block collection is available now on crocs.com and at select stores globally this month at a US MSRP of $44.99 for the Classic Clog, $49.99 for the Crocband™ Clog and $49.99 for the Crocs Sloane Slide. For children, the Classic Clog is available at a US MSRP of $29.99 and $34.99 for the Crocband™ Clog.

A second Drew Barrymore ♥ Crocs Collection will launch globally in May 2018 and will feature exclusive graphics and embellishments on Crocs Classic Clogs, Crocband™ Clogs and Crocs Sloane Slides, as well as Crocs Isabella Sandals and Flips.

About Crocs, Inc.
Crocs, Inc. (Nasdaq: CROX) is a world leader in innovative casual footwear for women, men and children, combining comfort and style with a value that consumers know and love. Every pair of shoes within Crocs’ collection contains Croslite™ material, a proprietary, molded footwear technology, delivering extraordinary comfort with each step.

In 2018, Crocs reinforces its mission of “everyone comfortable in their own shoes” with the second year of its global Come As You Are™ campaign. To learn more about Crocs or Come As You Are, please visit www.crocs.com or follow @Crocs on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Gabrielle Union and ‘Being Mary Jane’ co-stars featured in Union’s spring 2018 campaign for New York & Company

February 1, 2018

The following is a press release from New York & Company:

New York & Company (NYSE: NWY) has unveiled a sneak peek of Gabrielle Union’s newest campaign, featuring the four leading actresses of BET’s hit show, Being Mary Jane: Gabrielle Union, Lisa Vidal, Margaret Avery, and Raven Goodwin. Aptly titled, #AllTogetherNow the campaign celebrates diverse body types and inclusivity of women of all ages. The full collection will be available to purchase in stores and online beginning Saturday, February 3.

The campaign aims to create a dialogue between customers, followers, and fans. New York & Company encourages users to post photos of friends, family, celebrity role models, and anyone else who inspires and motivates them. By utilizing #AllTogetherNow on social media, New York & Company intends to bring women together to lift each other up and support each other. The new campaign attests to the New York & Company mission of embracing diversity and inclusivity while offering affordable, on-trend styles that empower customers to look and feel their best.

Gabrielle expressed her ideas behind her most recent campaign citing that women must unite to lift each other up and support each other through adversity. “We need to come together. Rise up. We will not be defeated.”

This collection will start at $34.95 and will include sizes 0-20 and XS-XXL. Beginning in April, the Company will expand the collection to include additional sizes of plus, petite, and tall. Gabrielle spoke with InStyle.com revealing, “People were like, ‘We need extended sizes, we need more diversity of sizes,’ and I heard you loud and clear, and I’m offering it.” She continued, “I want to make easy-to-wear, easy-fit, comfortable clothing that you can wear from work to the club, and it doesn’t feel like it’s attacking you.”

Fans of Being Mary Jane can look forward to seeing their favorite actresses throughout Gabrielle’s spring and summer campaigns.

Gabrielle Union wearing an outfit from Gabrielle Union’s Spring 2018 Collection for New York and Company (Photo courtesy of New York and Company)

Tom Ford opens his first beauty store in London

November 21, 2017

The following is a press release from Tom Ford Beauty:

Ton Ford — Tom Ford beauty store in London (Photo courtesy of Tom Ford Beauty)

Debuting on November 20, 2017, the first TOM FORD beauty standalone store is the ultimate in luxury beauté, expressed through Tom Ford’s singular vision. Located in London’s historic Covent Garden (3 The Market Building) this store is a pivotal moment in the evolution of the brand.

The new design of light and layered grey glass sculpture creates a visually arresting play on objects and space while highlighting his collection of makeup, skincare and fragrance for women and men.

Tom Ford’s inimitable touch reverberates in every dimension of the store, beginning with the LED screens lining the façade with the latest campaigns. Halos of light and floating white marble slabs showcase the exquisite design of his products, fully immersing you in the convergence of glamour and technology for the most luxurious retail environment.

A complete vision of the breadth of the world of TOM FORD BEAUTY, each room in the 130 square meter store features its own enhanced shopping experiences, equipped with various digital technologies that unite technical innovation, bespoke sculptural design and the most coveted customer services.

GROUND FLOOR

COLOR ROOM
Discover the latest launches, most wanted colors, and augmented reality, that allow customers to virtually try on shades from the highly coveted lip color collection.

FRAGRANCE ROOM
Enter Tom Ford’s personal scent laboratory, where the brand is transforming how consumers trial fragrance. The room features a dedicated interactive scenting installation where guests can digitally explore the unconventional scents that make up the artisanal Private Blend Collection. A dramming bar offers customized services, from luxury sampling to scent styling.

Explore the Oud and Neroli Portofino Collections, the Tom Ford for Men skincare and grooming collection and a luxury gifting station.

MAKEUP ROOM
An intimate room that offers personalized makeup services and demonstrations by a Tom Ford Beauty Specialist. For the first time, customers can record their makeup applications for use at home as a personalized how-to, sent with a shopping list of products used throughout the service.

LOWER LEVEL

PRIVATE MAKEUP SERVICES ROOM
The Private Makeup Services Room provides appointment-only services bookable online and in store, with Tom Ford Beauty Specialists. The brand offers fragrance customization and makeup services such as application, Tom Ford’s Shade and Illuminate philosophy, definitive brows, VIP masterclasses and bridal services.

There is also the opportunity to record your customized how-to for these services.

VIP/EVENT SPACE
This is the ultimate space for private cosmetic and fragrance one-to-one consultations.
The sculptural and lighting design and digital screens create the most exclusive space to showcase the products.

GROOMING ROOM
Experience the Tom Ford for Men skincare and grooming collection in London’s most luxurious space for men. Guests can choose from a range of exclusive grooming services by an expert barber, including a Beard Trim, the Express Facial, and a classic hot towel, close-cut Wet Shave, all bookable online at tomfordbeauty.co.uk/appointments.

Barneys New York announces thedrop@barneys in partnership with Highsnobiety

October 12, 2017

The following is a press release from Barneys:

Barneys New York, in partnership with Highsnobiety, today announced the “thedrop@barneys“, a first-of-its-kind two-day event that will feature 30 exclusive capsule collection and product “drops”, designer appearances, unique in-store activations and programming featuring some of today’s biggest names in fashion. thedrop@barneys will take place at Barneys New York’s Madison Avenue flagship in New York City on October 28 & 29, and on Barneys.com.

“Barneys New York has always been known as a place for the convergence of entertainment, exclusive designer collaboration and unique experiences,” said Daniella Vitale, Chief Executive Officer & President, Barneys New York. “With thedrop@barneys, we are introducing a whole new concept – blending exclusive launches from the best new designers, one-of-a-kind experiences, compelling content, food and music, giving our customer a new and innovative way to explore and experience Barneys.”

“Today’s fashion culture revolves around newness, exclusivity and experience,” said Jeff Carvalho, Managing Director, Highsnobiety. “We’re excited to partner with Barneys New York on thedrop@barneys to give fashion enthusiasts a fresh way to interact with the brands and designers they follow.”

On day one, October 28, Barneys New York will release nine major collections in store throughout the day via various “drops”, along with personal appearances from designers, including: Virgil Abloh of Off-White, Mike Amiri of Amiri, Heron Preston, Faith Connexion, Marcelo Burlon, Greg Lauren, Francesco Ragazzi of Palm Angels, Ben Taverniti of Unravel Project, and Jerry Lorenzo of FEAR OF GOD.

These collections are part of thedrop@barneys’ 30+ designer launches available at its Madison Avenue flagship, as well as on Barneys.com. Other exclusive releases include Gucci, Alpha Industries, Alexander Wang, A-COLD-WALL*, 424, Ambush, Visitor on Earth, and more.

On day two, October 29, Highsnobiety and Barneys New York will host panel discussions at its Madison Avenue flagship, featuring a variety of designers, influencers and fashion industry insiders. The panels also will be livestreamed by Highsnobiety and Barneys New York. Activations will continue, including an appearance and signing by Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter of The Roots, a special handbag activation with Saint Laurent, custom hat orders from Nick Fouquet, Converse chain-stitching customization, SWEAR shoe customization, and more.

Throughout the weekend, Barneys New York will host more than 80 designers and vendors with more than 40 activations throughout the store across men’s, women’s, kids, home, beauty and jewelry. Customers will experience a wide range of unique in-store activations, including: a T-shirt bar featuring 25 exclusive graphic T-shirt styles from coveted brands, a DJ set from designers Heron Preston and Off-White’s Virgil Abloh, a curated space by FEAR OF GOD’s Jerry Lorenzo, a custom FILA immersive installation, tattoos from celebrity tattoo artist JonBoy, piercings from renowned piercer J. Colby Smith, a customized sneaker bar and more.

To register to attend thedrop@barneys at Barneys New York’s Madison Avenue flagship, visit: https://www.barneys.com/thedrop.

For more information and updates on thedrop@barneys, visit: http://thewindow.barneys.com/

Toys ‘R’ Us files for bankruptcy and announces widespread store closings

September 19, 2017

Toys R US

by Patricia Garrett

Toys “R” Us, the iconic toy retailer founded in 1948, has filed for bankruptcy, According to the New York Times, the company (which also own Babies “R” Us and the FAO Schwarz retail brands) owes more than $5 billion in long-term debt to its creditors, which include Mattel and Hasbro. Toys “R” Us currently has more than 1,600 retail stores around the world (about 800 of those stores are in the U.S.), and the vast majority of toys “R” Us stores are expected to be closed in 2018. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on September 18, 2017.

Originally headquartered in Washington, D.C., Toys “R” Us is currently based in Wayne, New Jersey. In recent years, the company has faced stiff competition from Amazon, Walmart and Target, which have been able to offer larger toy inventories and bigger discounts.

Toys “R” Us chairman/CEO Dave Brandon commented in a statement about the bankruptcy: “Today marks the dawn of a new era at Toys “R” Us, where we expect that the financial constraints that have held us back will be addressed in a lasting and effective way,”