Hotter Comfort Concept is preparing itself for a surge

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:57:23 GMT

Hotter Comfort Concept is preparing itself for a surge in requests for the UK's most comfortable and stylish shoes, following the recent launch of its new TV campaign.

The nationwide TV campaign which is currently on air for a two month period, takes its inspiration from the thousands of customers who have told the company about their own Hotter moment and memories of wearing a Hotter shoe for the first time.

Hotter prides itself on the technology of each and every shoe that it produces and the secret to its success is the hundreds of air bubbles injected into every Hotter shoe sole- creating the feeling of walking on air. Hotter believes that the first time you try on a Hotter shoe you have a Hotter Moment as you experience how comfortable and spacious the shoes are.

Featuring new designs for this season including Etna, Starshine, Charleston,, Paradise and Sunberry, the new TV commercial will be broadcast on Channel 4, GMTV, Gold, Living, Food & Drink and Fiver. The commercial will also be streamed on the Hotter website.

Melanie Killilea, Hotter Comfort Concept PR manager commented: "Once you've had what we call a Hotter Moment, you'll understand the true meaning of a pair of comfy shoes. Every shoe that we make is created with precision and care, we're passionate about feet and even more passionate about ensuring feet are as comfortable and well looked after as possible. We're really excited about the new TV commercial and we're confident that it will resonate with new and existing Hotter fans everywhere."

To keep the nation's feet on the move Hotter has encouraged fans to share different walking routes around the country with others. These can be uploaded on the Facebook and Twitter pages or sent straight though to the Hotter team where they'll be added to Hotter's selection of Great British Walks.

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

About Hotter Comfort Concept:
Hotter Comfort Concept targets the active over fifties market where thousands of shoe shoppers are indulging their feet in the hidden comfort of Hotter shoes - designed, manufactured, packed and shipped from the Lancashire factory.

Hotter manufactures more than 1.3 million pairs of shoes every year - more than any other shoe maker in the country.

Secret comfort features are hidden in every Hotter shoe guaranteeing the utmost comfort. Hotter has a dedicated team of designers working to create a collection of casual, sporty and formal mens shoes and womens shoes, as well as men's and Womens Boots which are perfect for matching with any outfit.

Debenhams first with disabled high street model

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:17:46 GMT

Debenhams is the first high street retailer to break the taboo of using disabled models in campaign photography.

Following an approach by Nikki Fox and Natasha Wood, both disability campaigners and presenters of the hit TV show 'How to Look Good Naked', Shannon Murray will appear in photography in the stores windows and online. Shannon, 32, has been confined to a wheelchair since breaking her neck in her teens

Shannon will join three other models appearing in imagery to promote the recently launched Principles by Ben de Lisi range which prides itself on its inclusivity. Joining Shannon will be Kate Fullman, a size 16 model, Tess Montgomery, a petite 5'4" model and Tokumbo Daniel, a size 10 model. The Principles clothing range starts at size 8 and goes up to size 20 with a specific petite clothing offering.

Unlike other high street stores, Debenhams is showing an increasing willingness to inject some variety into the people modelling its clothes. The campaign follows hot on the heels of the retailer using size 16 mannequins in its windows.

Michael Sharp, Debenhams' Deputy Chief Executive said: "We cater for women of all shapes and sizes, young and old, non-disabled and disabled so we wanted our windows to reflect this choice.

"When Nikki and Natasha approached us with the idea, we didn't have to think twice. We are proud to be the first high street retailer to deliver this. We only wished we had done it sooner," concluded Sharp.

Nikki Fox praised the store for using Shannon in its campaign: "I am so happy and proud that Debenhams has used our disabled model for such a massive campaign." she said. "It's a really big deal. If seeing Shannon helps another disabled person, then we've done well."

Ben de Lisi added: "Every woman deserves to look good and feel special which is why there are styles to suit, fit and flatter every body shape in the new Principles range. I think that Shannon looks amazing."

Shannon Murray complemented the retailer for supporting disabled models: "I think this is a fabulous step forward by Debenhams and I’m proud to be part of such a big move towards positive representation of disability in high street fashion."

Gok Wan added: "We in the UK have the best high street in the world. It’s a multi million pound industry that needs to recognise all shapes, sizes and disabilities. Filming 'How to Look Good Naked' has been a life changing experience for me, because I have learnt so much about a community I knew existed but have never been involved with.

"Debenhams is pushing the boundaries by producing the first ever disabled fashion campaign in conjunction with 'How to Look Good Naked', and I hope that one day disabilities will be recognised by every chain in the high street." Wan concluded.

The imagery won't be a one off. Debenhams says that it is committed to using disabled models in other photography. Already a second photo shoot is being organised and the retailer has also approached Premier Models to see if they could be the booking agent for disabled models for future campaigns.

Initially the images will be used in Debenhams' Glasgow, Guildford, Oxford Street and Nottingham branches with the intention of rolling out across all stores.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:
The Debenhams Press Office can be contacted on 0207 529 0236

About Debenhams:
Debenhams is a leading department stores group, and has a strong presence in key product categories including women's wear, such as dresses, trench coats and maxi dresses, men's wear, home wares, make-up including the benefit makeup range, health and beauty, accessories, perfume, lingerie and children's wear.

Topshop reveals its Unique Autumn Winter 2010 collection

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 16:31:04 GMT

Topshop has revealed its latest collection, Unique Autumn Winter 2010, which draws its inspiration from the great outdoors.

Following the Brownie motto of 'Be Prepared', the Unique Autumn Winter 2010 outerwear has been designed to be protective and functional, whilst luxurious fake furs and delicate chiffons evoke a woodland wildlife feel.

"The inspiration was looking at two elements. One was going camping in the woods and then once you are in the woods it almost goes into a twisted Narnia type environment", commented Jacqui Markham, Topshop Joint Head of Design. "There's 30 designers in the team and they just bring to the table all their different ideas, and we try and create a bit of a theme, a bit of a hook, that we can tailor the collection around."

Defending against the elements, saddle brown battered leather parkas are cosy with quilted linings and shrunken waxed cotton jackets in uniform blue and khaki brown appear in a swing shape and cropped gilet. Duffle coats and trenches keep out the cold with reversed sheepskin linings on the outside of the body and voluminous wool scarves and cable knit socks offering an extra layer of warmth. Berry coloured corduroy tailoring with leather panelling gives a modern twist on traditional countrywear, whilst loden green wools in a boxy jacket, pencil skirt and short shorts look more rugged and are adorned with Girl Guide inspired award badges. Old fashioned pyjama-esque striped slouchy cotton trousers and shirts continue the idea of a camping trip in the wilderness.

Practical details feature throughout; skirts have suspender strapping, belts have release buckles and sheepskin bags secured by harnesses have old-fashioned binoculars and torches as charms. Canvas and leather lace-up boots are sturdy with multiple buckles and detachable ankle covers and mini pouches.

Offsetting the utility/survival feel of the collection, prints and fabrics are heavily influenced by woodland creatures and nature. The sumptuous teddy bear fur coat is reminiscent of a grizzly bear, fluffy mittens are paw-like, and shoe boots are adorned with tufts of sheepskin. In contrast, soft chiffon blouses and dresses with hand-crafted crochet and lace panels conjure up an image of a warped fantasy world full of woodland nymphs and fairies. Mushrooms, clovers and twigs are scattered across jersey vests whilst wild wolves, deers, rabbits and owls hide within the camouflage 'Woodland print' but stand out in their full glory as headdresses.

Karen Bonser, Topshop Head of Design, said, "To be at London Fashion Week alongside so many credible and talented designers, it's a great thing for Topshop to be able to do and to support British fashion."

Notes to editors:
- Unique is Topshop's progressive collection, created by the in-house design team. Produced since 2001 and now in its nineteenth season.
- Unique is available online at Topshop.com and in selected stores nationwide

About Topshop
Topshop was established in 1964 and is part of Arcadia Group Ltd. Sir Philip Green became owner of Arcadia Group Ltd in 2002.

Topshop is continually recognised as being an authority on women's fashion, having won several awards for design reputation and new services, and has a wide range of dresses, jeans, womens bags and lingerie.

Topshop was the first fashion retailer to show on schedule at London Fashion Week in September 2005 and continues to grow its reputation for supporting exciting new talent.

Topshop announces new collections for 2010

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:57:04 GMT

Topshop has announced details of a selection of new clothing collections to be featured in 2010.

February saw the launch of a new collection from Ashish Gupta, featuring enormous trademark studs on an inky-black sweatshirt, tracksuit bottoms and a show-stopping padded biker jacket. The relaxed, casual aesthetic of the seven piece Ashish for Topshop collection carries through onto a rolled-up grey marl tracksuit trouser and a pair of matching shorts. A cropped grey sweatshirt ties in a cute knot at the waist. The silhouette is over-sized, and the over-all effect is nonchalant.

Spring/summer 2010 sees Topshop's Oxford Circus flagship store once again playing host to EDIT, an in-store boutique showcasing a collective of young emerging designers. This will be the third season EDIT has been available in-store following two successful seasons in 2009. EDIT sees the return of Topshop's resident label KTZ, as well as the launch of several new international labels. The EDIT brands are truly global, originating from countries as diverse as Germany, Hong Kong, Sweden and the US.

Spring/summer 2010 also sees the return of Richard Nicoll with his greatly anticipated collection for Topshop, his 5th collaboration with the brand.

The ten piece collection was built around signature shapes and colours from previous collaborations with Topshop and can be defined by three palettes; 50's candy striping in blush or tobacco, grey palettes and soft tailoring in nude chino cotton. The incredible details of these pieces are influenced by cowboy and western finishes; each lapel is adorned with miniature hearts whilst the zips are miniature perspex hearts.

Mary Katrantzou, the first new designer to be added to the Topshop stable for 2010, launched her four-piece jersey collection in February, featuring the designer's distinctive bold and graphic prints that translate perfectly into her mini-collection for the high street, comprising of a body, a body-con dress and two T-shirts, all in white jersey. Each style has a different oversized jewellery print around the neckline, directly inspired by Mary’s Central St Martins MA graduate show and subsequent collections.

Louise Goldin launched her hotly anticipated first footwear collection for Topshop in time for London Fashion Week in February. The beautifully sculptured shoes were first seen on the catwalk of Louise's Spring/Summer 2010 collection. Inspiration was taken from Baroque opulence and there are two designs; the first is studded on the toe with diamante around the heel which is available in black on black or cream and gold. The second design has the reverse; studded heel and diamante toe, available in rose with crystal.

2010 also sees the partnership between colour and print master Jonathan Saunders and Topshop continuing with the launch of a denim and devore collection, which hit Topshop stores in January. Geometric shapes and block colours run throughout this five-piece collection. A denim pencil skirt and matching cropped strapless basque are in panelled denim dyed in three different jean colours. A geometric devore grid design runs down the full length of a black body-conscious full length dress, a sweatshirt and a loose-fitting jersey tee, great for relaxed urban living.

-Ends-

About Topshop
Topshop was established in 1964 and is part of Arcadia Group Ltd. Sir Philip Green became owner of Arcadia Group Ltd in 2002.

Topshop is continually recognised as being an authority on womens clothes, having won several awards for design reputation and new services, and has a wide range of womens dresses, high heels, maternity clothing, jackets and womens jeans.

Topshop was the first fashion retailer to show on schedule at London Fashion Week in September 2005 and continues to grow its reputation for supporting exciting new talent.

Debenhams launches size 16 mannequins

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 16:23:39 GMT

Debenhams has announced that size 16 mannequins will appear in its windows in a trial to gain feedback from customers to see if they like the idea.

Like most retailers Debenhams currently uses standard size 10 mannequins in all its window displays. However the majority of women in the UK are either a 14 or 16.

Signage next to the mannequins, which will be wearing the recently launched Principles by Ben de Lisi range, will ask customers 'I'm a size 16, do you want to see more of me?'

Debenhams stocks up to size 26 in its womenswear department, and a huge 42% of sales come from size 14 and 16 garments.

Debenhams Head of Creative, Mark Stevens commented: "We are proud to offer a broad and varied choice for women of all ages, shapes and sizes in store. So we thought we should reflect this in our window displays. If it's popular with customers we would love to roll it out."

Susan Ringwood, Chief Executive of charity Beat, which lends help to people with eating disorders and their families, voiced her support for Debenhams' trial. She said: "Women often feel it is their fault that clothes don't look as good on them as they do in the shop window, so we congratulate Debenhams on taking this initiative."

Mark Fast caused waves when he sent size 12 and 14 models down his catwalk last London Fashion Week, and gorgeous size 16 model Crystal Ren has had a huge impact on the fashion industry recently.

The window, which celebrates a realistic interpretation of the British female physique, was unveiled at Debenhams' Oxford Street branch in February. The size 16 mannequins can be seen in the newly launched Principles by Ben De Lisi window as well. The initiative will be later rolled out across the country, again to get feedback from customers.

ENDS

About Debenhams:
Debenhams is a leading department stores group, and has a strong presence in key product categories including women’s wear and dresses, men's wear, home wares, health and beauty, accessories, lingerie and children’s wear.

Debenhams has 139 stores including seven Desire by Debenhams stores, across the UK and Ireland with approximately 10.1 million square feet of trading space and employing around 21,500 employees.

Base London Serve up new Young Fashion Brand 'Fish 'N' Chips'

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 09:34:55 GMT

Base London, men's footwear brand, has launched a new young men's fashion brand Fish 'N' Chips by Base London for Spring Summer 2010. A range of graphic heavy, printed canvas shoes and boots, inspired by music and modern youth culture, make for a new move into a different sector of the footwear market by Base London.

The Fish 'N' Chips by Base London Summer 2010 collection offers a veritable feast of footwear courses with geometric, floral and 80s influenced prints all on the menu. Served up as a selection of lace ups, slip ons, and lightweight boots, all on an original rubber sole and displaying a distinct gingham tablecloth printed inner sock. The Fish 'N' Chips collection is available to buy from the Base London online shoe shop.

The Spring Summer 2010 collection launches with a selection of styles, aptly named after the courses found on the menu in the nation's traditional and favourite take away. Cod, a lace up canvas style, with a tough durable rubber sole is complemented neatly by Wrapped, from the Chips range, a casual wing tip canvas shoe displaying intricate brogue detailing and a fresh colour palette.

Highlight pieces from the Fish 'N' Chips collection comes in the form of Peas, revealing a wide and varied colourings as well as 80's inspired graphic prints on a classic college pump style silhouette complete with a leather toe cap and Wallys, a classic lightweight canvas deck shoe, bold in colour and strikingly detailed.

Other styles for Spring Summer 2010 include Scampi, a low profile lace up shoe and from the Sauces range, Ketchup, a versatile trend led lo-boot style.

'Fish 'N' Chips is an bold new venture for Base London' claims Ian Cartwright, Base London's Managing Director, 'Fish 'N' Chips will display all the high quality characteristics that Base London is renowned for; style, innovation and great value for money and allows the brand to enter another sector of the market, building on the brand's success and appealing to an even wider customer base. The addition of the Fish 'N' Chips sub-branding gives us greater flexibility to demonstrate the playful side of the brand'

About Base London:
Base London was founded in 1995 after a niche was spotted in the market - branded mens formal shoes for the high street. Previously consumers had the choice of own label or exclusive designer names with nothing in between.

The Base London Brand was launched at around the same time as the lads' mags hit the shelves for the first time. These provided the perfect platform to talk directly to the target audience.

Keeping in line with consumer needs, the footwear range was expanded to include more casual styles. Base London rapidly earned an excellent reputation for high quality, affordable designer mens shoes and remains market leader in this arena.

Base London has received public commendation in the form of numerous finalist nominations in the Footwear Brand of the Year category of the FHM/Drapers Footwear Brand Awards. The company has actually gone on to win the award three times - more than any other fashion brand has achieved.

JD Sports announces official partnership with M.E.N. Arena

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:41:54 GMT

Leading British and now global sports fashion retailer JD Sports is pleased to announce its continued partnership with Europe's largest indoor venue and the world's second busiest arena in 2009, the SMG Europe managed M.E.N. Arena for 2010.

First opened in 1995 the arena, which is located within 60 minutes drive of 11.4 million people, played host to Mike Tyson’s UK debut fight, seen by over 100 million worldwide, and has hosted superstar acts such as U2 and Madonna stage concerts.

As well as having strong connections with sports fashion brands like adidas Originals and Fred Perry, JD Sports is also proud of its continued musical connections which include previous link-ups with Ian Brown and Doves as well as a current partnership with popular live music club Moho Live, and the M.E.N. Arena continuing to host the biggest names in music, comedy and sport since 1995, the exclusive footwear and clothing retailer is delighted to team up with the premier venue for the duration of 2010 onwards.

The 21,000 capacity arena is known throughout the globe for hosting some of the biggest names in the entertainment business and attracting in excess of 1 million visitors a year as well as being consistently nominated for International Venue of the Year, this venture will enable JD Sports to acquire tickets for a host of specially selected and immensely popular events such as Lady Gaga, Stereophonics, Black Eyed Peas, JLS, Peter Kay’s record-breaking 2010/11 residency and many more throughout the year. These sought after tickets will then be made available to win exclusively through our Facebook fan page which has close to 50,000 members.

To keep up with the huge growth in social media within the business and retail environment, using Facebook as the main tool in which fans of JD Sports can win tickets to a varied number of events over 2010 will hopefully further raise the profiles of the two North West based household names.

About JD Sports:
JD Sports Fashion Plc is the leading UK specialised multiple retailer of fashionable branded and own brand sports clothing and casual wear. Their reputation has been built on providing high quality, high fashion men's and womens trainers. The company operates over 350 stores through the UK.

JD Sports was founded in 1981 with one shop in Bury. It expanded into the Arndale Centre in Manchester in 1983 and consolidated its position throughout the 1980s with further openings, largely in the North and Midlands. The first London store was opened in Oxford Street in 1989 and by the time of JD Sports' stock market flotation in 1996 there were 56 stores.

The business continued to grow organically until 2002 and then grew further with the acquisition of more than 200 stores, further consolidating its position as the leading UK retailer of fashionable sports and casual wear.

As well as offering customers leading brands such as Nike, adidas Originals, Lacoste, Converse trainers and K-Swiss, JD Sports also stocks 'own-label' brands.

Animal Online Store Launches Youth Division Collection

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:34:25 GMT

Animal, the freesports apparel brand, has announced the online launch of its new 2010 youth division collection.

This is the biggest youth collection to date for Animal and includes a new baby range, as well as offering footwear, eyewear, bags and accessories for boys and girls aged 0 - 12 years old.

The Animal boys clothing is action-packed with strong graphic print t-shirts, cool looking polo shirts and a range of shorts, jeans and boardshorts. Animal boys hoodies are big this season with a great colour palette ranging from traditional navy and black to bright chilli pepper red and Hawaiian blue.

For Animal girls clothing there are plenty of pretty outfits to choose from. With a lovely selection of cami tops and dresses, prints vary from beautiful flowers to cute checks. There are also plenty of Animal girls hoodies and t-shirts.

Animal also offer a huge range of school bags and satchels that can easily store A4 files and all other school work. There is also a fantastic selection of boys and girls stationary with pencil cases and note books.

Product Director Scott Eden commented: "Our Youth Division has developed significantly over the last few seasons and for 2010 we have produced our largest collection so far. Careful thought has been put into the design and colour palette of the range to give it its own identity and unique style.

A new product area for the youth division is the baby range which offers cute babygros for baby boys and girls. We are very excited about the collection this year and we have even bigger plans for it later on in 2010."

The online store continues to have exclusive opportunities and competitions for its shoppers as well as free delivery on purchases over £50, free returns on all orders and a safe, secure shopping online experience. The E-Store also stocks one of the widest selections of Animal products available in the UK including clothing, watches, bags, footwear, eyewear and accessories.

About Animal
Established in 1987 in Poole, Dorset, Animal is one of the UK’s leading freesport brands specialising in the design, marketing and retailing of freesports influenced clothing, technical clothing, footwear, luggage, eyewear, accessories and watches.

Animal aligns itself as a lifestyle brand based around a number of core sports including surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, bodyboard, mountain bike, BMX, wakeboard, freeski, snowboarding and motorcross. Animal also sponsors key events across these sports and has a team of riders ranging from youth development through to professional. Animal sponsor high profile riders and operate a number of academies and camps giving newcomers and experienced riders the opportunity to pursue their chosen sports further.

French Connection launches ladieswear Spring Summer 2010

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:10:15 GMT

French Connection launches Spring Summer 10 collection, full of colour, shine and all things fine. It's a tale of two style tribes - 50's teen rockabilly's hop amongst punks from the 80's, the clash is evident on both proportions and tailoring giving a new 50's slant with graphic florals creating a softer, vintage backdrop.

The spring summer style collection sits like a back-to-school pencil case full of Caran d`Ache coloured hues - everything fresh and exciting ready for its first outing. The mix of casual to formal pieces is even, endorsing the freedom of creating an individual style with a juxtaposition of clean cut lines with softer silhouettes in fluid fabrics.

Bold electric blue blazers are worn oversized with contrasting purple lining over neon Hawaiian floral dresses and exposed zips. The double-breast blazer dress with bold gold buttons gives a nod to the 50's whilst providing a take on an 80's classic. Bold retro prints in deep jewel colours are mixed with fluro brights on high shine batwing dresses.

Trousers are a contrast of silhouettes - sharp cigarette pants in black, neon Hawaiian print or electric blue, are given gold zip detailing on the waist and ankle, to be worn with oversized shirts or bustier tops - Sandra Dee style. Pleated harem trousers in soft to touch fabrics feature throughout the range in muted tones of beige and black - contrasted with striped or draped vests. 50's rain Macs are updated in bold blue with gold branded buttons, which can be worn cropped and oversized for a more relaxed feel.

Knitwear is playful, with multi coloured liquorice Allsort stripes in short sleeve jumpers and body con skirts - and a hero piece knitted dress with batwing sleeve detail.

French Connection iconic embellished dresses and mini skirts have moved on to incorporate more intricate, eclectic designs in acid brights. Fluorescent vintage floral prints adorn high waisted skirts, peplum detailed dresses, pinafores and bustiers - set against black to give them a rock'n'roll edge. Formal, muted pieces create a subtle backdrop to the brash range with colonial inspired pieces including silk all-in-one jumpsuits, cropped front pleat blazers and belted shirt dresses - all in a soft pebble tone.

A capsule range of monochrome pieces create easy to wear, chic style. Black silk dresses are given sheer shoulder and back cut out detailing; a full length black high shine maxi dress exudes Grecian chic, with a block colour dress with back zip detailing offering a stylish alternative to classic work wear.

Shoulders are still exaggerated but given softer detailing with contrast colour ruffles on dresses, t-shirts and tops. As spring turns into summer the collection evolves into clean 90's inspired lines mixed with 50's beachwear and retro Hawaiian florals on hot pants and cut out detail dresses.

It's like a washed out photograph from a 50's vacation in Hawaii gets discovered in the 80's and inspires a collection where fashion means business but also lots of fun.

About French Connection
French Connection was founded in 1972 by Stephen Marks who set out to create well-designed womens clothing that would appeal to a wide audience. French Connection now offers a fashion-forward clothing range with a quirky spin on design, priding itself on quality and affordable prices.

Having established a strong core clothing business, through design and an idiosyncratic sense of style, French Connection has recently expanded its portfolio into exciting new areas including men's and women's toiletries, sunglasses, watches and shoes.

Driven by innovation and change, the brand's strength lies in mixing new ideas with the basic promise of quality and affordability, established more than 30 years ago when the business was founded. Throughout this expansion and diversification the principles have remained the same; design-led products presented in a unique and innovative way.

Animal online store launches new season collections

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 09:58:12 GMT

Animal, the freesports apparel brand has announced that its new 2010 spring collection has been launched on their online store.

The Animal online shop stocks one of the widest selections of Animal products available in the UK including clothing, watches, bags, footwear, eyewear and accessories.

The extensive Animal clothing collection for men, women and children provide many transitional pieces suitable for the early months of the New Year as well as a great swimwear collection perfect for the up and coming summer months. The in-house design team take inspiration from Animal's surf heritage, pop culture and other on trend influences to produce a diverse collection suitable for a wide variety of online shopper.

The Animal mens clothing offers a wide selection of product including t-shirts, shirts and jackets. The Animal hoodies have been nicely updated this season with new graphics and a fresh colour palette ranging from loud bright hues to more neutral tones. Great attention has also been spent on shorts and denim collections with new washes, prints and cuts.

For the Animal womens clothing collection, dresses are a big trend this season with a range of cute beach dresses, floaty floral dresses and smart evening maxi dresses. Layering is also key this year with a lovely selection of cardigans, lightweight knits and check shirts. There is also a fabulous selection of Animal bags to compliment every outfit with prints and detail tying back into the main line clothing collection.

Animal retail buying director Tim Metcalfe commented: "Our new collection moves on from where our winter season left off. With a more progressive, vibrant colour palette for men and a softer, more sophisticated styling for women, the Animal collection is fresh and on trend for 2010. New product areas include the launch of a new "Enjoy not destroy" organic clothing collection, loungewear for lazy summer days and more technical advancements in stretch fabric board shorts."

The online store continues to have exclusive opportunities and competitions for its shoppers as well as free delivery with all purchases over £50, free returns on all orders and a safe, secure shopping online experience.

About Animal:
Established in 1987 in Poole, Dorset, Animal is one of the UK's leading freesport brands specialising in the design, marketing and retailing of freesports influenced clothing, technical clothing, footwear, luggage, eyewear, accessories and watches.

Actively involved within the freesports of surfing, snowboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing and mountain biking, Animal sponsor high profile riders and operate a number of academies and camps giving newcomers and experienced riders the opportunity to pursue their chosen sports further.

North West based Hotter flies the flag for UK manufacturing

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:44:02 GMT

Hotter Comfort Concept, the Lancashire based shoe manufacturer, has reaffirmed its mission statement to keep manufacturing in the UK. This statement comes at a time when Cadbury's, one of Britain's best loved businesses, faces US takeover.

Hotter Comfort Concept, which is celebrating 50 years in the industry, is one of a few UK businesses currently beating the recession. Manufacturing 1.3 million pairs of footwear each year in the UK, Hotter is one of the world's most technologically advanced shoe making factories and last year turned over £37.5m and made profits of £5m.

In light of the current economic climate and imminent Cadbury's takeover, Hotter has renewed its commitment to remain true to its British roots with company values built on enthusiasm, passion and courage. Managing director, Stewart Houlgrave has seen many changes in the industry over the years and is determined to see Hotter shoes beat the recession and prove that the UK manufacturing industry is strong in the economic downturn.

Stewart commented: "The recession has seen many of our well known high street names disappear. Woolworths was probably one of the biggest last year and the recent Cadbury takeover is a shock and great loss to the UK manufacturing industry.

"My parents set up Beaconsfield Footwear over 50 years ago and I've grown up with the brand and through our business decisions and operations created some of the most advanced shoe manufacturing technology in the UK. I am proud that we are proving it's still viable, and indeed a lucrative proposition, to manufacture and sell shoes in the UK with a British workforce."

Over the past six years Hotter Comfort Concept has invested £6 million and now has one of the most successful production facilities anywhere in the world. Hotter targets the active mature market, where shoe shoppers are investing their cash in the ultimate indulgence for their feet. Many of the hundreds of letters and emails Hotter receives comment on the heritage and firm British roots the company retains.

Hotter Comfort Concept has strong values with a modern outlook on business. Stewart re-affirmed Hotter Comfort Concept's determination to retain UK roots and that the company is not afraid of future industry change: "When other businesses fled overseas I was sure our future remained here in the UK and I am glad I made that decision all those years ago, despite surprise in certain parts of the footwear industry. I stood by what I believed in and today with a loyal workforce of nearly 400 including a manufacturing plant, call centre and five high street stores, Hotter is going from strength to strength and I'm extremely proud of what we have achieved."

ENDS

Hotter manufactures more than 1.3 million pairs of womens shoes, mens shoes, extra wide shoes, womens boots and womens sandals every year- more than any other shoe maker in the country.

Hotter sell shoes direct to its customers via its website, on-site 90 seater call centre and selling through 300 independent UK retailers including garden centres.

Topshop introduces new Jonathan Saunders collection for 2010

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:47:50 GMT

Topshop, the high-street fashion giant, has announced its partnership with the colour and print master Jonathan Saunders is to continue into 2010 with the launch of a new 2010 denim and devore collection, hitting Topshop stores at the end of January.

Geometric shapes and block colours run throughout this five-piece collection. A denim pencil skirt and matching cropped strapless basque are in panelled denim dyed in three different jean colours, ideal to be worn together, but can also be styled to great effect apart. A geometric devore grid design runs down the full length of a black body-conscious full length dress, a sweatshirt and a loose-fitting jersey tee, great for relaxed urban living.

Scottish born print designer Jonathan Saunders graduated from Glasgow School of Art in 1999 with a BA in Printed Textiles, going on to graduate from Central Saint Martin's in 2002 gaining an MA with distinction in Printed Textiles. Jonathan joined the New Gen scheme for three seasons 2004-2005, sponsored by Topshop, which began their working relationship. Following three seasons showing in New York, Saunders has recently returned to London.

One of Saunders' trademarks has been his use of traditional silk screening techniques, developing the concept of engineering prints around pattern pieces. Whilst print is still integral to his designs, more recently he has focused on the development of an architectural, clean form, perfectly displayed in his devore jersey pieces for Topshop.

Jonathan commented: "My collection for Topshop this season has been inspired by sportswear and workwear, as well as the bold and graphic shapes of the Memphis movement. It's perfect for urban city dwellers".

The new collection is Jonathan's fourth for Topshop and will be available through selected stores: Oxford Circus, London Selfridges, Liverpool, Manchester Arndale, and online at Topshop.com.

-Ends-

Notes to Editors:
- Price range: £35 to £50

About Topshop
Topshop was established in 1964 and is part of Arcadia Group Ltd. Sir Philip Green became owner of Arcadia Group Ltd in 2002.

Topshop is continually recognised as being an authority on women's fashion, having won several awards for design reputation and new services, and has a wide range of dresses, high heels, maternity clothing, women jackets and jeans.

Topshop was the first fashion retailer to show on schedule at London Fashion Week in September 2005 and continues to grow its reputation for supporting exciting new talent.

Jeff Banks launches £2m NSPCC Great British Clothes Clearout

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 10:29:28 GMT

Fashion designer Jeff Banks today is calling on the nation to join the Great British Clothes Clearout and donate unwanted clothes to raise £2m for the NSPCC.

Jeff Banks cleared out his own warehouse for the launch, donating over 1,000 garments from his many design collections.

The NSPCC aims to collect more than five million bags of second hand clothing by 2012 in partnership with clothing collection agent Clothes Aid.

Jeff Banks said: “I think clothes are there to be worn, not be hidden away in your wardrobe! So I want everyone to join the NSPCC’s Great British Clothes Clearout to help prevent cruelty to children.

“Everyone has a few fashion horrors hidden away at home. For me it’s my suits. The ones from the 80s are probably back in fashion! So I’m having my own Clothes Clearout for the NSPCC – I hope everyone will join me and cast off those terrifying textiles!”

Donations of good quality used clothing can be made through convenient house to house collections. Donators should look out for NSPCC branded bags posted in their letterboxes with a printed Clothes Aid collection date.

Businesses and other organisations can also request a one-stop collection service from Clothes Aid for donations of 200 bags or more – raising even more money for the NSPCC. Clothes Aid has guaranteed to raise a minimum of £525,000 in the year of its partnership with the NSPCC.

NSPCC head of corporate partnerships Tracy Griffin said: “We know many people find it hard to give financially during this challenging economic climate. So giving unwanted clothes, shoes, or other textiles is a great alternative way for people to support the NSPCC.”

“Join in the NSPCC Great British Clothes Clearout and start the new decade with only the clothes you love to wear in your wardrobe!”

Around two million tonnes of textiles are purchased in the UK every year, of which 60 percent ends up as waste. Clothes Aid extends lifespan of garments by diverting them from landfill to be sold in fashion-hungry European accession countries.

The NSPCC relies on the generosity of the general public for more than 85 percent of the funds it needs to raise each year. All the money raised through the Clothes Aid partnership will go towards the NSPCC’s vital work in helping to end cruelty to children.

More information is available at www.nspcc.org.uk/greatbritishclothesclearout

More information about Clothes Aid and arranging a one stop bespoke collection at www.clothesaid.co.uk

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JD Sports releases adidas Originals x Star Wars collection

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:54:55 GMT

JD Sports has announced that it has launched products from the much talked about Star Wars collection by adidas Originals.

adidas Originals joined forces with the iconic Star Wars franchise to launch this unique collection of classic adidas Originals trainers and clothing, which includes cult characters and storylines from the trio of original films blended with classic adidas Originals styles to produce a collaboration of galactic proportions that JD Sports are proud to stock.

The adidas Originals x Star Wars collection consists purely of limited edition footwear and clothing encapsulating both Light and Dark sides, Imperial Forces and the Rebel Alliance in a range that includes printed Stormtrooper tees, Darth Vader track tops and Lightsaber inspired trefoil designs. Never before has a brand captured the excitement of key memorable moments within the Star Wars universe.

One of adidas Originals’ all time classic shoes, the Superstar, gets the full Star Wars treatment and will be available in three colourways inspired by the movie. The Storm Trooper Superstar has an all white upper with a Storm Trooper making an appearance on the tongue, transparent sole and heel. The Darth Vader inspired Superstar trainer is all black with orange ascents and features the man himself on the tongue, transparent sole and heel too. There is a final Superstar which is all black with gold highlights and an embossed Star Wars logo on the upper.

These exclusive and limited edition trainers are available in men’s sizes, as well as Junior and Nursery sizes so can be worn by the whole family. In Junior sizes include interchangeable three stripes so the look of the shoe can be changed in an instant.

The new collection went on sale through JD Sports on the 18th January and to celebrate JD Sports is offering themed pin badges free to first customers to buy any products from the collection.

About JD Sports:
JD Sports Fashion Plc is the leading UK specialised multiple retailer of fashionable branded and own brand sports and casual wear. The company operates over 350 stores through the UK.

As well as offering customers women's and mens clothing brands such as adidas Originals, Nike, Lacoste, Converse and K-Swiss, JD Sports also stocks 'own-label' brands mckenzie, Pure, Carbrini and Brookhaven.

Topshop launches its new spring summer collections

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:08:06 GMT

Topshop, the award winning clothing retailer, has announced the launch of its new Spring/Summer collections, combining casual, sassy streetwear, festival trends and sleek military inspired sportswear.

For Spring/Summer 2010 Topshop has embraced four distinct styling trends with its new Parisienne, Meadow, Downtown and Saloon collections.

The Parisienne collection offers flirty, feminine and fun styles featuring stripes, polka dots and pearls combined with flouncy dresses, boucle jackets, embroidered tees and accessories. Blouses, prim tailoring and casual tees also feature in this collection, with spotty tights and oversized bows adding a playful touch.

The Meadow collection invites customers to take a trip to the English countryside with billowing chiffon, bleached denim womens jeans and delicate florals that conjure up the impression of a summer's day. Toughened-up with studded waistcoats, lace-up boots and leather accessories, lace, crochet and intricate embroidery in the collection are given a harder edge for spring.

Mixing experimental fabrics, futuristic shapes and sporty detailing, the Downtown collection has a luxurious, yet pared down aesthetic, with a laid-back, urban edge and slinky harems with hidden zips, bodycon pieces in graphic prints and leggings with power mesh inserts.

From womens blazers to luxe joggers, these sporty, versatile separates offer a bold, bright edge with futuristic prints and fluoro accessories.

Saloon, the final collection in Topshop's Spring/Summer 2010 range, features a series of cancan ruffles, saloon inspired frills, broderie anglaise and delicate cutwork. When teamed with indigo denim, beaten-up leather and casual canvas, the dusty coloured tulles and sun-faded prints reflect the warm, heady nights of the Wild West. The pretty patchwork and faded Americana prints prevalent in the collection are embellished with accessories boasting fringing and tassels.

A video highlighting the Spring/Summer 2010 Topshop collections can be found on the Topshop website.

- ends -

About Topshop:
Topshop was established in 1964 and is part of Arcadia Group Ltd. Sir Philip Green became owner of Arcadia Group Ltd in 2002.

Topshop is continually recognised as being an authority on women's fashion, having won several awards for design reputation and new services. Topshop offers a full range of womens fashion, from dresses and jeans to blouses, accessories, shoe boots and other footwear, both formal and casual.

Topshop was the first fashion retailer to show on schedule at London Fashion Week in September 2005 and continues to grow its reputation for supporting exciting new talent at London Fashion Week.

Burton launches Score Draw competition

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:12:03 GMT

Burton menswear has announced the launch of its Score Draw competition. The Score Draw collection is a retro collection of football shirts to celebrate the great years of footballing champions and cool shirts.

There are 20 shirts available in the collection, covering 10 English clubs: Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, West Ham United, Leeds United, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Sunderland and Manchester City, plus 4 Scotland shirts soon to be available.

To celebrate this collection Burton is giving the chance to win a T-shirt - a Brazil 1970 World Cup Final shirt signed by the world's greatest ever player, Pele.

This authentic reproduction Score Draw shirt represents the all-time football shirt design classic. Worn by the famous Brazil team of the 1970 Mexico World Cup Final in the 4-1 victory over Italy, the top epitomises the classic encounter of the irresistible force meeting the immovable object as the Brazilian force prevailed and secured a record third World Cup triumph (1958, 1962, 1970).

This Score Draw shirt has been autographed by Edison Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pele, who played in 92 internationals (scoring 77 goals) for Brazil - including two World Cup Finals.

For a chance to win this signed collectible retro Brazil shirt signed by Pele, entrants just need to fill out a competition entry form on the Burton site. The closing date for this competition is 12 February.

The Score Draw brand is the leading supplier of official retro football shirts in the World.

Score Draw football shirts are officially licensed and endorsed by more than 40 football clubs and national associations accommodating over 600 styles from over five decades. Every Score Draw football shirt is meticulously researched and designed to represent the original garment worn by momentous old teams and players - football shirts fit for heroes - that are widely accepted by football clubs, players and supporters as the definitive reproduction.

About Burton
Burton was originally founded in 1903 under the name The Cross-Tailoring Company. It quickly became popular and expanded into hundreds of outlets and factories across the United Kingdom. Today, it is a staple on most high streets and a popular retailer for mens clothing, including gifts for men, casual clothing and men's hoodies, mens jackets and jeans.

Customers can also shop online from the Burton.co.uk website which offers free returns in-store or by post and fast delivery to their home. The site features a useful size guide to ensure customers can get the correct fit for all items. They can also sign up for the Burton newsletter, which offers all the latest style updates, exclusive discounts and competitions.

Women's shoe specialist, Hotter Comfort Concept, heralds 2010 with retail expansion

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:22:08 GMT

Hotter Comfort Concept, women's comfortable shoe brand, announces plans to open three new high street stores in 2010.

Making and selling womens shoes and mens shoes from its Lancashire headquarters the innovative comfort shoe brand has announced plans to open new Hotter Comfort Concept stores in Chichester, Eastbourne and Bromley in Spring 2010. Bucking retail trends, Hotter shoes, which marks its year end in January, is forecasting around 20% growth in difficult high street trading conditions.

"Following considerable research and targeting of prime 'Hotter' locations, these three new stores are the first steps in a roll-out retail expansion which utilises our existing, successful, retail blueprint," commented Marketing Director Lisa McCarten, "and is just one of several exciting ventures we plan to reveal in 2010.

"Our innovative approach to the women's shoes market has helped us stand out in a competitive market," she added, "we enjoy hands-on control of product development because we design and make 1.3 million pairs of shoes in our Lancashire factory every year. We also enjoy a fantastic relationship with our customers because we speak with them every day - in our five existing stores, via our 100 seater call centre and online through the website."

In the past 12 months Hotter has implemented a successful TV trial, re-launched the Hotter Shoes website with a more user friendly, transactional interface and refocused its direct marketing business, boosting its in-house team.

"As we enter the final month of our financial year we are heading into what we expect to be a buoyant sales period," added McCarten. This is sure to be helped by the start of the Hotter Comfort Concept end of year sale.

About Hotter Comfort Concept:
As one of the last bastions of shoe manufacturing in the UK, the 380 staff of Hotter Comfort Concept are flying the flag for home-grown footwear talent with an innovative strategy which includes selling its extra wide shoes, womens boots and comfy men's and women's shoes direct to its customers via its on-site 100-seater-call centre, five branded stores and selling through 200 independent UK retailers including garden centres.

Hotter Comfort Concept targets the active, mature market with a range of women's shoes, women's boots and women's sandals which are designed to provide casual shoe options through to trend-lead shoe styles - building comfort into every pair. Hotter's men's shoes, men's boots and men's sandals are designed to be rugged and functional to give options for office wear, as well as for travel, hobbies and leisure.

French Connection launches Rock Legends T shirt range

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:04:02 GMT

French Connection has launched its new Rock Legends T-shirt range, featuring iconic images of four of rock's biggest stars.

Available online and on the high street, the range features four different T-shirts each highlighting a different rock legend. Mens T-shirts in the range feature images of Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, guitar virtuoso Jimi Hendrix and the infamous punk rocker Sid Vicious. The fourth design is features Debbie Harry of Blondie and is available for both men and women. The T-shirts are available in white, grey or black and also feature a simple and discreet French Connection flag logo on the bottom left hand seam.

Jennifer Roebuck, Head of Ecommerce at French Connection, said: "Our rock n' roll inspired capsule tees feature some of rocks greatest legends and were a welcome addition to our collection. We wanted a rock-tastic red carpet appeal for the collection and we felt all these stars portrayed this."

The new French Connection T-shirt range has been designed to compliment a casual rocker look when combined with denim shorts or jeans but can also contribute to a more formal but rebellious style when worn underneath a suit jacket. The shirts can also be teamed with velvet for a grunge luxe style or with bright denim for a more colourful and striking ensemble.

About French Connection
French Connection was founded in 1972 by Stephen Marks who set out to create well-designed womens clothes that would appeal to a wide audience.

French Connection now offers a fashion-forward clothing range with a quirky spin on design, priding itself on quality and affordable prices.

Having established a strong core clothing business, through design and an idiosyncratic sense of style, French Connection has recently expanded its portfolio into exciting new areas including men’s and women’s toiletries, sunglasses, watches and shoes.

Topshop announces return of Sno clothing range

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:03:01 GMT

Topshop, the award winning clothing retailer, has announced the return of its Sno clothing range.

Included in the collection are trousers, jackets, a ski suit, salopettes and a selection of accessories such as thermal style underwear, sunglasses, snoods, goggles and mittens. All designs are wind and water proof and feature rubberised zip-pulls and waterproof coated zips, offering complete comfort and protection from the elements. The Sno range has been streamlined since 2008 to include only the most essential pieces for customers' skiing holidays.

Jackets come in black and a monochrome print with a warm fur-trimmed hood. They are based on the mobility and functionality of the 'boarding' style jacket and feature a 'snow skirt' which keeps the snow out. They include a soft fleece interior, an adjustable hood, a glove pocket, a pocket for goggles and a zipped internal pocket, ideal for an iPod or phone.

There are two styles of trousers, including a ski style and a board style, with both available in classic black. All trousers, salapettes and the all-in-one boiler suit are part-fleece lined for comfort and warmth, and include taped seams and durable gaiters to go around the base of the ski boot.

Additional pieces include cotton thermal style underwear in either pale coral or dove grey, woollen snoods lined in fleece, padded ski mittens, knitted headbands and fleece-lined woolly hats. Spray-back sunglasses are available in black or charcoal and filter UV rays as well as offering resistance to snow glare.

The Topshop Sno range is focused on fashionable and affordable professional ski and boarding garments with accessories. The range incorporates technical ski features and provides manoeuvrability with maximum insulation and minimum bulk.

The Sno range is available at all Topshop stores in the UK and online at topshop.com.

About Topshop
Topshop was established in 1964 and is part of Arcadia Group Ltd. Sir Philip Green became owner of Arcadia Group Ltd in 2002.

Topshop is continually recognised as being an authority on Womens clothing, having won several awards for design reputation and new services, and has a wide range of dresses, shoes, maternity clothing, women jackets and jeans.

Topshop was the first fashion retailer to show on schedule at London Fashion Week in September 2005 and continues to grow its reputation for supporting exciting new talent.

Branson's island sold: last chance to shop with Elizabeth Hurley

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 10:04:42 GMT

One lucky bidder is planning their holiday on Richard Branson's private island hideaway today, after winning the star lot in the NSPCC's Dream Auction last night.

The clock is ticking today on more stunning lifestyle and celebrity experiences at www.dreamauction2.co.uk, including meeting Peter Andre backstage during his UK tour and driving the Silverstone racing circuit. And on Saturday lucky bidders will bag a shopping experience with Elizabeth Hurley and lunch with Jodie Kidd.

Sixty lots will close for bidding over the final two days of the auction, which is raising funds for the NSPCC's Child's Voice Appeal. Great items still available include lunch with TV presenters Phil Spencer and Kirsty Allsopp; dinner cooked for you by TV chefs Tom Parker Bowles and Matthew Fort in your home; tickets to the 2010 FA Cup Final and a host of signed celeb items, hampers and toys – all perfect for some last-minute charitable Christmas shopping.

Kath Abrahams, NSPCC director of volunteer-led fundraising, says: “There are prices to suit everyone’s budget, and a fantastic range of must-have and money-can’t-buy lots. Dream Auction 2 is the perfect way to treat a loved one to a special gift this Christmas – and help us answer more children’s calls for help.”

Dream Auction 2 is supported by eBay and organised by a committee of NSPCC supporters led by Dora Loewenstein, founder of event management company Dora Loewenstein Associates Ltd (DLA). The committee ran the first Dream Auction for the NSPCC in 2006. This year’s event is raising funds for the Child’s Voice Appeal, the NSPCC’s three-year appeal to raise £50 million to maintain and grow its helplines, text and online counselling services.

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A wide selection of images promoting Dream Auction 2 and to illustrate individual auction items are available.

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