Blue Nile returns to top line growth

Blue Nile returns to top line growth ,Ralph lauren outletBlue Nile returns to top line growth November 06, 2009 (USA)
Blue Nile, Inc., the leading online retailer of diamonds and fine jewelry,Womens ralph lauren, today reported financial results for its third quarter ended October 4, 2009.

Net sales of $66.9 million increased 2.4% compared to the third quarter of 2008 on strength in bridal jewelry sales and growth in international markets. Operating income for the quarter grew 17.6% to $3.9 million compared to $3.3 million in the third quarter last year. Operating margin expanded 80 basis points to 5.8% of net sales compared to 5.0% of net sales in the third quarter of 2008. Net income improved 10.3% to $2.6 million, or $0.17 per diluted share compared to $2.3 million, or $0.15 per diluted share in the third quarter of 2008.

Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter totaled $6.3 million, an increase of 17.4% over the same quarter in 2008 and a record level for any third quarter in the Company’s history. As a percent of sales, non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA improved to 9.5% compared to 8.3% in the third quarter of 2008. Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $23.4 million for the trailing twelve month period ended October 4, 2009. Non-GAAP free cash flow for the trailing twelve month period ended October 4, 2009 increased to $20.9 million from $20.1 million a year ago.

“Our third quarter results were excellent and reflect continued positive momentum in the business. We returned to top line growth and delivered strong profitability,” said Diane Irvine, Chief Executive Officer. “The Blue Nile brand is resonating with consumers in the current environment, and we are gaining market share. As we look toward the important holiday season, we are well positioned with a broad selection of diamond engagement rings and fine jewelry and a newly redesigned website to showcase these products.”

Selected Financial Highlights
International sales grew 27.5% in the quarter to a record level $8.8 million compared to $6.9 million in the third quarter of 2008. Excluding the impact from changes in foreign exchange rates, international sales increased 34.8%.

Gross profit for the quarter totaled $14.8 million. As a percent of sales,cheap ralph lauren polo, gross profit improved 180 basis points to 22.1% compared to 20.3% for the third quarter of 2008. The Company continued to achieve year over year gross margin improvement due largely to improved product sourcing in both diamonds and jewelry.

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the quarter were $10.9 million,kids ralph lauren, compared to $10.0 million in the third quarter of 2008. The increase was due to lower expenses in the third quarter of 2008 related to forfeited options and a reduction in incentive accruals. In addition,Mens ralph lauren polo shirts, 2009 includes expenses related to technology investments in support of key initiatives such as the website redesign. Selling, general and administrative expenses include stock-based compensation expense of $1.8 million in the third quarter of 2009, compared to $1.6 million in the third quarter last year.

Denim by Première Vision now turns spotlight on Japan

Denim by Première Vision now turns spotlight on Japan Denim by Première Vision now turns spotlight on JapanNovember 05, 2009 (France)
Where can you take the pulse of jeanswear, that specific fashion sector that continues to carve out market share? Where can you meet major players in the industry from all over the world? Wherecan you find all the latest technological inventions, unimagined qualities, surprising handles,cheap ralph lauren polo, updated colours and accessories that will make all the difference? Where can you sample that little extra-something so unique to specialists in jeans fabrics?

Denim by Première Vision, whose next edition will be taking placeon 2 and 3 December 2009 at Les Docks/Paris Saint-Denis, providesall of that and more. And that is what makes its unique concept so successful. As of today, some 60 exhibitors have confirmed their participation in this 5th edition of Denim by Première Vision. One month ahead of the show, this would indicate a participation level equal to that of last year (62 in December 2008) – a fine performance in these days of severe budgetary restrictions affecting every sector.

All the denim sector professions, from weaving to accessories, including manufacturing, laundering and finishing, are represented. In fact one of the distinct features of Denim by Première Vision is that it brings together all the actors who play a role in the design and manufacture of a collection. This is part of what makes the show an unparalleled event in the jeanswear universe.

Among the participating companies are 13 new exhibitors, including the Japanese firm Kurabo, one of the oldest denim producers and also one of the international players in selvedge denim. Also new is Denim Valley by royo, a line launched by the Spanish company Royo, which is proposing the first HybriDenim using organic cotton and Tencel conceived from eucalyptus wood specially cultivated for this purpose.

Also worth noting is the arrival of the Italian firm emmetre, which is a recognised specialist in original laundering and dyeing processes, as well as the Turkish company eroglu, one of the major Garment & Finishing companies. Owners of the brands Big Star, Colin’s and Loft, Eroglu also works for many well-known ready-to-wear brands. In the accessories sector,women ralph lauren shirts, the offer is updated with the addition of the Italian company Panama trimmings, makers of highly creative trimmings and labels, and tur ip, from Turkey, particularly specialised in yarns intended for denim, including tapes and washable metallic yarns.

Alongside these companies, and faithful to the show over the course of sessions, are major names in the sector, including: Berto, Bossa Denim, Candiani, Cappio, Denim Authority, Dorlet, Dynamo,Mens ralph lauren, Gap Guneydogu, Hellenic Fabrics, Italdenim, Kipas, Kuroki, Nihonmenpu, Okinawa, Orta Anadolu, Sartex, Tavex, TejidosRoyo, Tessile del Vomano and Vicunha. In terms of fashion, SpringSummer 11 at Denim by Première Vision opens the season with curiosity and originality.

The jeans universe broadens its horizons to emerge as an indispensable player in fashion, with clear paths towards fantasy, a luxury spirit and citywear. The influence of the past persists, with all the charm inherent in updating and interpreting,Mens ralph lauren polo shirts, yet imperfect aspects with a vintage flavour widen the way for the arrival of a cleaner denim,kids ralph lauren, dense and compact textures and intensely indigo visuals.

Kim Kardashian teams up with 50Kshoes

Kim Kardashian teams up with 50Kshoes Kim Kardashian teams up with 50KshoesDecember 23, 2009 (USA)
Kim Kardashian, model, businesswoman, style maven and reality star, teams up with 50Kshoes.com “Celebrity Charity Challenge” to benefit Soles4Souls,Womens ralph lauren, the international shoe charity dedicated to providing free footwear to those in desperate need.

“It is an amazing cause. You give money and they help needy people and people in poverty to get shoes,women ralph lauren shirts,” said Kim Kardashian. “For the price of a latte, you can give two pairs of shoes to people in need.”

Donating is easy at 50Kshoes.com. It requires no shipping and no trips to the post office. The suggested donation is very affordable, with $5.00 buying two pairs of new shoes. Kim’s challenge ends on January 31,wholesale ralph lauren polo, 2010 and all donations are tax-deductible.

Money raised will go toward the purchase of 1,Ralph lauren polo,000 pairs of new shoes which will be distributed in Kim’s honor for her support. The distribution will take place on January 8, 2010 in New Orleans. Soles4Souls has sent over 1 million pairs of new shoes to the area since Hurricane Katrina devastated the area in 2005.

In addition,cheap ralph lauren polo, Kim’s shoe endeavor ShoeDazzle.com will donate $5 to Soles4Souls for every person who registers with ShoeDazzle.com from now until December 23rd.Soles4Souls Inc
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Giorgio Armani S/S 2010 collection for women

Giorgio Armani S/S 2010 collection for women Giorgio Armani S/S 2010 collection for womenNovember 04,Womens ralph lauren, 2009 (Italy)
This season Giorgio Armani creates a collection of pieces empowered by their cut and construction, essentially disciplined but at the same time possessing that special equilibrium achieved through perfectly balanced contrasts – exuberant, head turning,Ralph lauren outlet, sumptuous. These styles are rich in colour and reference,Mens ralph lauren, texture of fabric (satin, taffeta, silk with stiffeners clad in double chiffon to support the structure) and elegant embroidery.

It is this perfectly judged fusion, where the dress has been taken apart and reconfigured without sloppiness or fluttery detail, which brings to mind an eccentric purity derived directly from the Bauhaus. With its pared down look, the geometric formula of the skirt creates movement and emphasises the three-dimensional form of the body, the shoulders slightly prominent or, for a more defined shape, precisely cut at an oblique angle. To underline the prevalence of short compact shapes, shorts are occasionally worn under svelte tunics.

In fact everything is short and ends above the knee,women ralph lauren shirts, even the evening dress. This staple has never before delivered such a total vision of lightness and geometric modernity, and is perfectly set off by flat shoes. Linear jackets with overstitched trim explore cool graphic design, combining sophisticated neutrals, grey, blue, green, a novel shade of iris, and low voltage red.

But it is the mutant shapes that give full expression to the pursuit of the new, including tunics like little wrap dresses, models with braces covering the bust, shorts gathered to imitate skirts,Mens ralph lauren polo shirts, and single shoulder shirts with three layers displaying checkerboard motifs.Giorgio Armani
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Local designers to gain international exposure

Local designers to gain international exposure ,Ralph lauren poloLocal designers to gain international exposureNovember 04, 2009 (Canada)
All eyes are on Vancouver this week, and they’re not all trained on the Olympic torch. Vancouver Fashion Week runs from November 3-8, 2009 and will feature some of the hottest up-and-coming designers from the city, including Vancouver College of Art and Design (VCAD) instructor Jenny Sandberg.

Sandberg’s clothing line,wholesale ralph lauren polo, Hawks Ave., has been featured in numerous local publications and will be front and centre at this year’s Vancouver Fashion Week (VFW). Success stories like Sandberg’s help to inspire future designers in the city, especially students pursuing the craft.

“Fashion Week is a great opportunity for students to get a glimpse of how shows are produced and developed,cheap ralph lauren polo,” says Shannon Yang, fellow VCAD fashion instructor. “It also gives students an opportunity to explore the different designs and further understand why they want this career path.”

VFW enters its 9th annual week-long event this November and is expected to attract more than 15,kids ralph lauren,000 fashionistas, as well as influential media,Womens ralph lauren, fashion buyers and other designers. Events like VFW continue to put Vancouver on the map in the fashion world.

“Like similar events in London, New York and Paris, Vancouver Fashion Week is a great outlet for designers to show their creations and their appreciation for fashion,” says Yang. “It also provides opportunities for local designers and strengthens the local fashion industry as well.”

Fashion designer hopefuls are encouraged to check out Vancouver Fashion Week at the Colin Campbell showroom from November 3-8, 2009. VCAD is also accepting applications for their Fashion Design and Marketing and Merchandising for Fashion programs at its website.

VCAD is a centre for creativity, where instructors share the commitment, desire and passion for art and design. Diploma programs have quarterly start dates to maximize flexibility for our students. VCAD is also a passionate supporter of the arts within the community, offering bursaries and awards to local organizations each year. Vancouver Fashion Week

NYIGF invites artists & designers for juried divisions

NYIGF invites artists & designers for juried divisions NYIGF invites artists & designers for juried divisionsOctober 01, 2009 (USA)
Designers, artists, and manufacturers are invited to apply to exhibit in three juried, design-focused divisions at the winter 2010 New York International Gift Fair(NYIGF). Accent on Design and Handmade applications will be accepted through October 16; and applications for A+: The Young Designers’ Platform at Accent on Design will be accepted through November 4.

“NYIGF showcases design innovation and artisanal talent through these juried divisions of the Fair,cheap ralph lauren polo,” said Dorothy Belshaw,ralph lauren polo outlet, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. “Applications from both established designers and craftspeople, as well as new, emerging talents are reviewed by our jury members,Ralph lauren polo, and the best-of-the-best are selected for participation in NYIGF.”

Accent on Design
Accent on Design, the industry’s leading resource for design-led merchandise,Womens ralph lauren, presents a dynamic juried collection of contemporaryand innovative product lines from nearly 200 exhibitors across all categories. Criteria for acceptance include: original, creative and authentic product design; new and innovative use of materials; products which address and solve problems; consistent and continuous new product creations; a focus on contemporary design (as perceived by the jury); and functionality.

Accent on Design jury members include: Miguel Calvo, Design & Research; David Alhadeff, The Future Perfect; Jamie Gray, Matter;Ilene Shaw, Shaw + Co! Productions; and Wilma Wabnitz of Wabnitz Editions Ltd. Accent on Design applications, due Friday, October 16, are available online at http://www.nyigf.com/exhibitor/applyform.html.

A+: The Young Designers’ Platform
“A+: The Young Designers’ Platform” is an “incubator” exhibit area within Accent on Design showcasing emerging talents, offering young designers an affordable opportunity to expose their concepts, prototypes and finished products to the wholesalemarketplace. Criteria for acceptance include: design concept, creativity and originality.

Applications for A+ will be accepted only from design students, recent graduates and emerging companies in business for one year or less. Designers will be juried by the Accent on Design selection committee. A+ applications, due Wednesday, November 4, are available online at http://www.nyigf.com/exhibitor/aplus/exhibitor.php.

Handmade
For more than 20 years, Handmade has offered buyers an extensive selection of handcrafted items across such categories as tabletop, ceramics, textiles, home d��cor, jewelry and apparel. The division, which features 575 artisans from 36 American statesand 14 countries worldwide, offers special identification of some200 “designer-makers,” as well as a special “Handmade in the USA” showcase area.

Criteria for Handmade acceptance include:uniqueness,kids ralph lauren, originality,authenticity, and marketability. Jury members include artisans, craft industry experts and retailers. Handmade applications, due Friday, October 16, are available online at

Baby Phat & GIANT present Priscilla Renea Sole Series Tour Baby Phat & GIANT present Priscilla Renea Sole Series TourOctober 01, 2009 (USA)
Famous for launching the most outstanding and innovative marketing campaigns,cheap ralph lauren polo, Baby Phat by Kimora Lee Simmons, in collaboration with GIANT Magazine, presents the “Sole Series” Campaign! GIANT and Baby Phat have embarked on a unique multi-media program that will engage the audience by integrating readers’ experience with Baby Phat through print, digital, special event and mobile initiatives. Performing live at Underground Station, a division of Genesco Inc.,Ralph lauren polo, for part three of the Sole Series in-store tour is hot new pop singer-songwriter Priscilla Renea.

The bright, colorful and clever Priscilla Renea has come a long way–from her home computer where she’d upload her original, catchy songs to YouTube (over 5.8 million views and counting!) to the storied roster at Capitol Records. Her hit single ‘Dollhouse’ is blowing up at radio and is an anthem for relationship independence and self-confidence with the fiercely sung hook “I ain’t a Doll! This ain’t a Dollhouse!”. Her full-length debut album Jukebox is aptly named, for it reflects 21-year-old Priscilla’s wide-ranging musical sensibilities and the scope of her talents.

Priscilla, who proudly hails from Atlanta, will perform outside the Underground Station store at the Gwinnett Place Mall in Atlanta,Mens ralph lauren, GA at 5pm on October 23rd,Mens ralph lauren polo shirts, 2009. For this highly anticipated event, fans will have the opportunity to meet the Atlanta native and preview tracks off Jukebox slated for a December 1st release.

Other featured artists for the “Sole Series” program have included: sizzling new girl group, Electrik Red, pop singer Kristinia DeBarge and contemporary R&B singer Dondria Nicole. This ground-breaking campaign consists of the following: a “Road to Success” print feature, in-store tour, and a mobile sweepstakes for the opportunity to win the ultimate fashionista experience by attending the Baby Phat Fashion Show during New York’s renowned Fashion Week. Talk about living life in the “fab” lane.

The Baby Phat Mobile Sweepstakes to win a trip to the NY Fall 2010 Fashion Week fashion show is another element to the “Sole Series” campaign. To become eligible for this amazing opportunity, customers must text the correct answer to the Baby Phat trivia question on the back of the VIP Access Card. All correct answers are automatically entered into the sweepstakes. Since Kimora adores her fans, everyone walks away with an exclusive Kimora Lee Simmons download regardless of whether their answer is correct or incorrect.

The “Sole Series” campaign will prove to be one of the most exciting and innovative projects that Baby Phat by Kimora Lee Simmons has committed to. There will be several promotional plans to ensure that this program is a heavy hitter! The Baby Phat social media pages, Facebook,women ralph lauren shirts, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube will be constantly updated with exclusive photos and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the production and execution of this amazing new program as well.Baby Phat
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Obama favorites create wardrobe for Chicago 2016 delegation

Obama favorites create wardrobe for Chicago 2016 delegation Obama favorites create wardrobe for Chicago 2016 delegationSeptember 30, 2009 (USA)
Chicago 2016 announced that the presentation apparel being worn by the delegation in Copenhagen, Denmark has been designed by three Chicago-based designers, including neckwear designer Lee Allison, venerable clothing brand Hart Schaffner Marx, and renowned designer Maria Pinto. The designers donated their time to work with the bid and have provided the clothing at cost.

It is customary for bid city delegations to wear official apparel to signify teamwork and cohesion.

“On October 2, Chicago will be on an international stage, and our city’s fashion designers will share in the spotlight,kids ralph lauren,” said Patrick G. Ryan, chairman and CEO of Chicago 2016. “Our bid plan celebrates Chicago and we are proud to showcase the talents of the art and design community that thrives here. We appreciate the support of Chicago’s business community and our world-renowned fashion designers.”

The female delegates traveling to Copenhagen will be wearing the designs of Maria Pinto, who has established a name for herself in Chicago and is now well-recognized in the world of fashion. An alumna of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago,ralph lauren polo outlet, Pinto majored in fine art with a focus in fashion, and later attended both New York’s Parson’s School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology. Pinto opened the doors to her first boutique in the city’s West Loop neighborhood, drawing celebrity clients like First Lady Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey.

Another Chicago-based style maker, Lee Allison,Ralph lauren outlet, has been producing his own line of neckties, dress shirts and accessories since 1995. His distinctive silk ties are cut and sewn by hand in a studio located in one of Chicago’s most fashion-forward neighborhoods. Lee Allison creates the signature designs himself, and has been creating ties for Chicago 2016 since the bid’s beginning.

When asked by Chicago 2016 to help create the outfits for the male delegates going to Copenhagen, Chicago 2016 and Allison teamed up with clothier, Hart Schaffner Marx, another hometown favorite since 1872, to fully fashion the men for this significant event.

Hart Schaffner Marx, the flagship of HMX Group, is a leading American tailored clothing brand. Hart Schaffner Marx suits are proudly made in suburban Chicago with a skilled union workforce. The brand was founded by first generation American brothers,Mens ralph lauren, Harry and Max Hart and their partner, Joseph Schaffner, who built a legacy of innovation that continues today. Hart Schaffner Marx tailored clothing is sold in leading department and specialty stores to discerning gentlemen who value service, style and unparalleled quality. Hart Schaffner Marx has been worn by U.S. Presidents,Ralph lauren polo, past and present, including most recently, President Barack Obama during his 2009 inauguration.1 2

Cosmetics fair ‘Beautyworld India’ begins from Oct 4

 Cosmetics fair ‘Beautyworld India’ begins from Oct 4 Cosmetics fair ‘Beautyworld India’ begins from Oct 4September 30, 2009 (India)
With exactly two months left to go, Beautyworld India is well on track to offering its exhibitors and visitors a high quality professional meeting point in the country’s fashion capital Mumbai. To be held from October 4 – 6, 2009 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, the fair, the only one of its kind on the subcontinent, continues to be the most attractive propositionfor international manufacturers eager to enter the Indian market,where demand for cosmetics and health care is at its healthiest.

The highlight of this year’s fair is none other than the World President of Intercoiffure Mondial, Klaus Peter Ochs. He will present daily hair shows where the latest techniques in styling and haircuts will be revealed. Beautyworld India will also launch the first ever Nail Championship in the country. Excitement is building up countrywide for this challenge. Beautyworld India is supported by leading associations to ensure that the entire industry is part of the development process.

Messe Frankfurt India is closely working with the Cosmetology Society of India, as well as the Flavours & Fragrances Association and the Food & Drug Association,wholesale ralph lauren polo, all of whom form the back bone of the cosmetic industry in India. “Beautyworld India is an excellent event organized with the highest professional standards and we are happy to be associated with them”, says Mr. Suhas Chaudhari, Joint Commissioner Food & Drug Administration of India. Beautyworld India 2009 will feature the entire gamut of product ranges from cosmetics, skincare, hair care, dental care, spa and wellness,Ralph lauren polo, to packaging, raw materials,manicure & pedicure, furniture for beauty parlors, fashion accessories as well as training centers and publishers from India and abroad. Among the exhibitors are Cipla India, all set to feature their unique range of hair care,cheap ralph lauren polo, skin care, spa products and perfumes, as well as health and energy drinks.

Eisen Germany will present their high quality cosmetic sharpenersthat fit all type of cosmetic pencils. Italian manufacturer,Mens ralph lauren, Oyster Cosmetics will present hair and skin care cosmetics.Kryolan Cosmetics Germany will be showing their expert range of professional make – up, are among a host of exhibitors from Turkey, Spain, China, Australia and Europe. More than 16 professional workshops will be held alongside the fair allowing for an exchange of latest information, new techniques and products. They are ?must-see? events for professionals in the cosmetic industry. Among the highlights of the workshop sessions are the Daily Hair Shows by star hairstylist Klaus Peter Ochs. The famous Ananda Spa in the Himalayas will present their holistic views on “Ayurveda & the healing process“. Experts like Dr. Geeta Pandya, a pioneer in the field of gynecological endoscopy and assisted reproduction in India will speak on hormones.

International speakers like La chasha from Netherlands will expand on skin care and treatments. International exhibitors wanting to do business with India have the best opportunity to get first hand information on policies and procedures for import into India through the interesting panel discussion featuring important speakers from the Food & Drug Administration and the Mumbai Customs Authorities. “We are upbeat about the fair this year even if we cannot expect a large growth in exhibitor numbersdue to the economic downturn in most markets. Our commitment to this market means that we will ensure high levels of interaction between buyers and sellers as well as the consumers of India. The high quality speakers we bring to the event will impart knowledge and information that our growing market needs”, said Ms. Shammi Nagpal, Managing Director,ralph lauren polo outlet, Messe Frankfurt India.
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‘We delivers good start to the fiscal year’ – Nike Chief

‘We delivers good start to the fiscal year’ – Nike Chief ,Mens ralph lauren polo shirts‘We delivers good start to the fiscal year’ – Nike ChiefSeptember 30, 2009 (USA)
NIKE Inc reported financial results for its fiscal 2010 first quarter ended August 31,Womens ralph lauren, 2009. First quarter revenues decreased 12 percent to $4.8 billion, compared to $5.4 billion for the same period last year. Excluding changes in currency exchange rates, net revenue was down 7 percent compared to the same period last year. First quarter net income was flat compared to the prior year at $513 million and diluted earnings per share increased 1 percent to $1.04.

“We delivered a good start to the fiscal year,” said Mark Parker, NIKE, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer. “These results illustrate that the emotion of sports, combined with innovative product, strong brands and premium retail experiences can make powerful connections to consumers even in challenging times.”

Parker concluded, “Leveraging these powerful consumer connections with a laser focus on operational excellence will enable Nike to deliver consistent long-term profitable growth. We’re on the right track,ralph lauren polo outlet, moving forward with confidence in hand and opportunity in mind.”

Futures Orders
The Company reported worldwide futures orders for Nike brand athletic footwear and apparel,Ralph lauren polo, scheduled for delivery from September 2009 through January 2010, totaling $6.2 billion,Mens ralph lauren, 6 percent lower than orders reported for the same period last year. Excluding currency changes, reported orders would have declined 4 percent.