Accessories - Attire Accessories magazine

ATTIRE

MAY/JUN 10

ISSUE 19

Pulse

PREVIEW

Insight into this

popular show

SOMETHING FOR

THE WEEKEND

Overnight and weekend bags

PLUS

� Expert Advice

� Industry News

� Brand New Products

Accessories

WWW.ATTIREACCESSORIES.COM

WIN

products worth up

to £600 RRP from

DSL Licensing

It’s a Cinch

Latest belt trends

Men’s Jewellery

Designs for alpha males

Boots

Fabulous new lines

69

57

31

22

Contents

Regulars

6 Industry News

Get the lowdown on the latest

happenings in accessories retail

14 On With Th e Show

Trade show dates and developments

18 Brand Spanking New

Th e hottest product launches to hit

the market

40 Business Link

Top tips on how to grow your business

75 All the answers

Experts answer your retail queries

90 Up and Coming

We look at the story behind

environmentally friendly company

TreeTwist

Profi le

49 Out of the Ordinary

We speak with Irregular Choice’s creator

and designer Dan Sullivan on the

innovative company’s 10 th anniversary

65 Hall of Fame

Celebrating 20 years in the jewellery

industry, founder and creative director

Diane Hall reveals the story of the

Dower & Hall brand

Features

17 Competition

Win products worth up to £600 from

DSL Licensing Ltd

22 Something for the Weekend

Take a trip with hot holdalls and

overnight bags

26 Retailer Interview

Graeme Ellisdon, founder of Osprey

London, tells us about the brand’s

creatively designed stores and intriguing

new outlet channel

49

39 Neil Gaisford Interview

We speak to Neil Gaisford, show

director of Pulse

43 Bootiful

Rundown of autumn/winter boots trends

50 Sex and the City

Rianna Fry takes inspiration for a

glamorous window display from New

York’s fi nest foursome

53 European Report

Alan Newberry gives us his take on trade

in the European market

57 Alpha Male

Men’s jewellery must-haves

62 Spreading the Word

Find out how to do your own PR

66 Retail Technology

David Mackley looks at the key points

for retailers to consider before choosing

a website company

69 Snug and Stylish

Get cosy with a selection of hats, gloves

and scarves

79 It’s a Cinch

Our pick of this season’s beautiful belts

82 In Store Events

Nichola Cain off ers top tips on running

an in store event

84 Retail Inspiration

We profi le some iconic retailers from

around the world

87 Singin’ in the Rain

Splash down with wet weather wear

Shows

31 Pulse preview

An insight into this popular London

trade show

ATTIRE 3

See our

comprehensive

range of

Scarves, Bangles

and Handbags

Long Necklace with a touch of baroque.

The over-ornate pattern stamped on silver

gives the jewellery an exclusive note. With

matching earclips.

Sterling Silver with CZ

www.tezer-design.de

UK contact:

Sharon Acton 07774 928045

Trade Shows Programme 2010

Pulse - Earls Court London

6th - 8th June U46

Home & Gift - Harrogate

18th - 21st July QS-37

Moda Accessories - NEC

8th - 10th Aug P68

Autumn Fair - NEC

5th - 8th Sept 4M50

Top Drawer Autumn

12th - 14th Sept K63

Shop online

www.giftwarehouse.eu

From June onwards

Orders online over £300 (exc. VAT) FREE DELIVERY

Orders under £300 (exc. VAT) £10 Delivery

(UK Mainland Only)

Visit our show room

Open Monday & Tuesday 10am - 5pm

Units 83/84, Trent Business Centre, Canal Street,

Long Eaton, Nottingham NG10 4HN

Tel: 01159 461173 or 07764 352726

Email: info@giftwarehouse.eu

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MAY/JUNE 2010

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GROUP EDITOR

Emma Cant

+44 (0)1376 535 609

editor@attireaccessories.com

EDITOR

Jennifer Kettle

+44 (0)1376 535 613

jenniferk@attireaccessories.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Rianna Fry

+44 (0)1376 535 613

riannaf@attireaccessories.com

SALES MANAGER

Mark White

+44 (0)1376 514 000

markw@attireaccessories.com

SALES EXECUTIVE

Helen Connelly

+44 (0)1376 535 600

helenc@attireaccessories.com

DESIGN MANAGER

Vicky O’Connor

artwork@attireaccessories.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Sarah Barnes, Sophie Farage

Laura Perry, Steve McKea,

Hayley Kilminster

+44 (0)1376 535 616

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Stuart Weatherley

STUDIO ASSISTANT

Leanne Walsh

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Alice Henson,

Charlotte Tannett

+44 (0)1376 514 000

Staff photographs courtesy of

Craig Williams Photography

Tel: +44 (0)1206 520 396 www.

craigwilliamsphotography.com

KD Media Publishing Limited

Broseley House

Newlands Drive

Witham, Essex CM8 2UL

www.attireaccessories.com

ISSN 1758-0919

Attire Accessories is solely owned,

published and designed by KD Media

Publishing Limited. Whilst every effort

was made to ensure the information

in this magazine was correct at the

time of going to press, the publishers

cannot accept legal responsibility for

any errors or omissions, nor can they

accept responsibility of the standing

of advertisers nor by the editorial

contributions. The views expressed

do not necessarily reflect those of the

publisher. Attire Accessories is published

six times a year. Subscription rates for

overseas readers are £40 per annum

(incl. p+p), Cheques should be made

out to KD Media Publishing Limited

and sent to Attire Accessories, Broseley

House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex

CM8 2UL.

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The lead up to the World Cup this year has put us in

mind of competition, determination, team work and, of

course, footwear! Boots were a real winner for retailers

last year and gave a strong performance in store, so

we run down the trends to watch for autumn/winter on

page 43.

The beautiful game does not often inspire great

fashion sense, however, stylish players such as David

Beckham are the exception to that rule and have really

changed the way that modern men dress. Men’s

jewellery has been just one area of the market that has benefited from

such image-conscious icons. We take note of the latest designs for

alpha males on page 57.

Although football may be the focus of the weeks to come, once the

summer has passed many of us will want to get away on a short break,

and with this in mind we take a look at the latest weekend bags on page

22. For those consumers that prefer the comfort of the home climate,

we examine new collections in hats, gloves and scarves on page 69 and

wet weather wear on page 87.

Wonderful products are always inspiring and providing excellent service

is crucial, however, sales are certainly the end goal, so those in search

of appealing new lines should turn to our

preview of leading trade show Pulse on page

31. To support this we also have articles with

advice on public relations on page 62 and in

store events on page 82.

Finally, don’t miss our competition on page

17 for one lucky retailer to win products worth

up to a total value of £600 rrp from DSL

Licensing Ltd.

Good luck and enjoy reading

��

Jennifer Kettle

Editor

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Cover image from

Irregular Choice

www.irregularchoice.com

Competition, Page 17

Weekend Bags, Page 22

Pulse Preview, Page 31

Boots Trends, Page 43

Men’s Jewellery, Page 57

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Find out what’s new in fashion accessories retailing...

Tateossian opens new store

In celebration of its 20 th anniversary, jewellery brand Tateossian will be opening a new

store located in Conduit Street, the heart of London’s Bond Street, this summer.

“Opening a W1 store is the ultimate brand extension to the Tateossian identity. This is

the fourth stand alone store in London and we are delighted to be joining the array of

luxurious stores in W1,” said CEO, Robert Tateossian.

Designed by Lino Lasanno and Lorenzo Perini, designers for Dolce and Gabanna

and Valentino stores, the duo’s signature of design elegance runs through the new

boutique. The signature Tateossian blue line, glass, mirrors and lacquered wood all

contribute to the minimal yet luxurious shopping environment.

Tateossian jewellery is a luxury, handcrafted product with seasonal collections

for both men and women. Designs are contemporary, fashion forward and timeless,

attracting a fan base including high profile figures such as Elton John.

Access www.tateossian.com for more information.

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SHAUN LEANE

INTRODUCES MEN’S

JEWELLERY

Four striking motifs lay hidden within

jewellery designer Shaun Leane’s classic

men’s collection, reflecting the mysterious

nature of the snake.

Key designs in the Serpent collection

include military style pendants that layer

circular and hexagonal enamelled discs.

The backs feature a decorative Shaun

Leane logo stamped on the surface.

Camouflaged amongst a mosaic of

enamel lies the King style, featuring a

double stripe that combines two shades

of enamel to form a stately, colourful

piece, whereas the sleek Copperhead

design has a single stripe, represented

in one shade of colour that swirls inside

the polished metal. The strong Boa style

carefully coils into an organic, circular

motif whilst a piercing diamond print

marks the Viper design.

The second part to the Serpent

collection by Shaun Leane is inspired by

the structural elegance of the snake, with

solid silver bracelets that replicate the

movement of the snake’s spine available

with carnelian beads as well as grey fossil

and onyx.

Telephone +44 (0)207 405 4773 for

further information.

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Jewellery brand Storywheels has revealed its new television

commercial starring the face of the brand, ex-Eastenders actress

Kara Tointon.

Storywheels builds on events in a woman’s life with a ‘wheel’

charm for every occasion, such as the birth of a child, the

purchase of a new flat or house, a new job, engagement and more.

The idea behind the bracelet is that it becomes a conversation

piece full of memories which the wearer carries with her

wherever she goes. The already popular Storywheels brand is new

in the UK and distributor DMJ has the rights to the brand here

and in the rest of Europe.

The brand’s television commercial, launched in the north of

England this spring, sees Kara at home, waiting to go out and

looking at a family photo, thinking of events in her life such as

her first career break.

Access www.storywheelsuk.com for further information.

Students vote Harrods most popular

graduate recruiter

Harrods has been named

the most popular retail firm

at the Targetjobs National

Graduate Recruitment

Awards. It marks the largest

student driven graduate

recruitment awards event in

the world and is supported

by leading business names

including Aviva.

Over 80,000 votes were cast by students and recent

graduates in a national survey to identify the most popular

graduate recruiter in different sectors of work. In total there

were 29 award categories, spread over different sectors

of employment to celebrate the most popular graduate

recruiters, reward the most outstanding contribution to

diversity, the most effective campaigns and websites.

Harrods beat off tough competition to win the retail award

by demonstrating that it was not only well known and

respected by students, but that it was also the employer

that most students wanted to work for in its sector. The top

10 most popular graduate recruiters in retail also included

Selfridges, John Lewis, Abercrombie and Fitch, last year’s

winner Marks & Spencer, Arcadia Group and Debenhams.

For more information access www.targetjobsawards.co.uk

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SIMPLY DEVINE SHOWCASES DESIGNS

FOR CHARITY

Specialist retailer Simply Devine showcased its millinery

at The Guildhall in York and helped to raise in excess of

£1,700 to support The Lord Mayor of York’s Charities.

BBC Radio York presenter Elly Fiorentini hosted the

event in aid of The Lord Mayor’s favoured charities, York

Against Cancer and Brunswick Organic Nurseries and

Craft Workshop.

Joy Devine, owner of the specialist hat shop in Tadcaster,

collaborated with the York branch of LK Bennett to

provide a stunning collection of womenswear and shoes

to complement the hats and fascinators from the Simply

Devine boutique.

Joy commented: “It is so important to showcase our

amazing hats with beautiful outfits because our hats and

fascinators are for extraordinary occasions such as weddings,

races and bar mitzvahs. This showcase would not be possible

without our stunning Simply Devine models, to whom we

are very grateful.”

Visit www.simplydevine.co.uk for further information.

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Autumn/winter 2010 collection revealed by Rieker

Rieker’s new autumn/winter 2010/11 collection is sure to please boot lovers with a comprehensive, great value

range that has everything from ankle boots to over-the-knee styles for the first time.

The new collection is more progressive than ever before and the boots are perfect for stylish, every day wear.

Rieker’s trademark AntiStress® technology and light, roomy designs have been combined with sleeker, more

elegant shapes than have come to be expected from a comfort footwear brand.

The boots feature key trends for the season with soft, high quality leathers of all types including crushed,

ruffled and suede. Colours include black, shades of brown and grey, as well as some beautiful muted reds,

purples and blues. Buckles, zips and elastics have been used to add clever detailing, whilst synthetic furs,

sheepskin linings and turn-downs add extra warmth in the depths of winter.

As with all Rieker footwear, the boots have been designed for optimum comfort. Internal Velcro and

elastic fastenings ensure the boots not only fit the feet but adapt to the shape of the wearer’s legs. Despite

the variety throughout the range, all of the styles still benefit from Rieker’s impressive flexibility

and shock absorption.

Visit www.rieker.com for further details.

The Birmingham Assay Office

supports London Jewellery Week

As part of London

Jewellery Week,

which runs from 7 th

- 13 th June 2010,

The Birmingham

Assay Office

will host three

workshops and

jewellery clinics during the Treasure exhibition at Victoria

House, Southampton Row, in London’s Bloomsbury.

The workshops will take place on Friday 12 th June at

1:30, 3:30 and 5:30pm. This will be followed by a jewellery

clinic after each session.

Treasure Talk will be presented by Dr. Sally Baggott,

curator at The Birmingham Assay Office, who will cover

consumer protection, the origin of hallmarking, how to read

and understand a hallmark and the vital role hallmarks play

today. Following this, Craig O’Donnell, an experienced

senior valuer from the SafeGuard Independent Jewellery,

Watch and Silverware Valuation Service, will discuss

what to look for when buying diamonds. The talk will be

followed by a Jewellery Clinic, where Dr Baggott and Dr

Craig will examine and talk about visitors’ own jewellery.

Appointments at the clinic are limited to 12 people per

session and to one piece of jewellery per ‘patient’.

For further information on The Birmingham Assay Office

visit www.theassayoffice.co.uk and for tickets to the

Treasure exhibition access www.treasureuk.com

8 ATTIRE

First British Jewellery Week set to

promote talent across the UK

The first-ever British Jewellery Week will see high-quality

jewellery retailers holding two week selling exhibitions across

the UK.

British Jewellery Week 2010 will launch at jewellery retailer

Furr & Co. in Hungerford, Berkshire on Wednesday 16 th June

before a national tour takes the best in British design talent to

jewellery stores and boutiques across the country.

The public is already familiar with big names in British

jewellery design such as Stephen Webster, Shaun Leane and

Theo Fennell, so British Jewellery Week is all about supporting

the new wave of young talent. British Jewellery Week will

be fronted by three ambassadors who represent the very best

in up and coming British jewellery design: edgy Tomasz

Donocik, elegant designer Lauren Adriana and the creative

Jasmine Alexander.

British Jewellery Week will be represented at London

Jewellery Week’s new Treasure exhibition, where the work of

the three ambassadors will be showcased, giving people a taste

of what to expect during the national timetable of exhibitions.

Retailers or designers in search of more information should

visit the website www.britishjewelleryweek.co.uk or telephone

+44 (0)1249 656 230.

Mia Jewels unique, eye-catching jewellery ideal accessories for all occasions.

A blend of edgy contemporary chic, eastern flair & timeless elegance, Mia Jewels

presents memorable pieces you’ll want wear again and again.

La Boheme: A youthful, trendy and affordable range of 23K gold & silver bracelets and necklaces combining the ever-popular Boho style

with karma charms and handmade beads. La Boheme collection is the perfect style-conscious way of spicing up every day outfits.

Eastern Promise: A wonderfully striking collection of 23K gold and semi-precious stone rings and earrings.

Make the ultimate fashion statement with these fun and vivid pieces sure to add glamour to every outfit.

Michael’s Bridal Fabrics

& Accessories

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07876 031454

miajewels@hotmail.com

www.miajewels.co.uk

Mia Jewels, 7 Campden House Court, 42 Gloucester Walk, London, W8 4HU

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Moderna Reading Glasses – one of our many designs

of reading glasses and sunglasses

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News & Events

ITS announces accessories competition finalists

International Talent Support (ITS), the platform

created and organised by Eve in collaboration with

Diesel and YKK, has unveiled the 10 finalists for the

coveted ITS Accessories prize.

This year’s edition of the ITS event, which aims to

give visibility, support and a voice to young talent from

all over the world through financial opportunities, work

placements and occasions to show their work to a jury

of experts, will take place in Trieste, Italy from 16 th -

17 th July 2010.

ITS Accessories is the only competition in the

world embracing all fields of accessories design and

acts as a bridge between fashion schools and the

industry. Sponsors include Swarovski Elements,

online fashion community IQONS, and trade show

ModAmont, which is offering its own award for space

in its exhibition catalogue and on its website.

Finalists compete for two awards, as the winner

of the ITS Accessories Collection of the Year will

receive 5,000 euros and then be asked to create a new

collection to be presented out of competition at ITS

Ten. The winner of the YKK Award will receive 10,000

euros and a professional photographer will shoot an

image of the winning project for promotional purposes.

Six of the 10 finalists in the ITS Accessories contest

are British, with designer Emma Yeo, Kirsty Ward

from Central St Martins College of Art and Design,

Zara Gorman from the Royal College of Art, and

Rob Goodwin, Keeley Smith and Sarah Williams

from London College of Fashion all making the

shortlist. Other finalists include South Korean designer

Heyoung Yun from Polimoda International Institute for Fashion Design and Marketing in Italy, Tomoko Tokuda from Japan,

South Korean designer Si Kim and Taiwanese designer Yu Wen Lu, who both studied at London College of Fashion. All of

the finalists will meet in Trieste for the finals of the competition in July.

Visit www.itsweb.org for more information.

MICHAEL’S BRIDAL FABRICS EXPANDS ACCESSORIES OFFERING

Michael’s Bridal Fabrics has built a reputation for being one of the leading suppliers of high quality bridal fabrics, edgings

and motifs.

The popular company has now started to offer an ever increasing range of accessories suitable for bridal, evening and cocktail

dresses. Michael’s Bridal Fabrics currently has around 200 articles to offer, including buckles, brooches and clasps, mostly

incorporating crystals, pearls or a combination

of both. Michael’s Bridal Fabrics is also offering

a range of buttons, again mostly incorporating

either pearls or crystals. Many images of the varied

accessories collection are available on the company’s

website www.michaelsbridalfabrics.co.uk

Prices for the accessories range from under £1 to

£50. To obtain details of samples books or to arrange

an appointment telephone +44 (0)1322 380 480 or

call +44 (0)1322 380 568.

ATTIRE 11 �

KLESHNA ADDS TO

BRIDAL JEWELLERY

RANGE

British jewellery designer Kleshna translates

opulence through unique designs dripping

in crystal in her latest range of impressive

bridal jewellery.

Headlining the striking collection is the

Fleur necklace and bracelet duo, featuring

seven crystal drop fl owers fl anked by

angular crystal bicones. The designer’s

iconic Sparkle collection is packed with

angular cut Swarovski crystal, moving

together to cast light prisms around the

wearer, whilst the Kleshna Knot necklace

and bracelets offer strands of faux pearls

and crystals twisting into a lavish knot

which can be worn bold at the front or

stylishly to the side.

The collection is available to order at

www.kleshna.com with prices from £5

-£40. Telephone +44 (0)208 401 6789 for

more details.

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Dents, Britain’s iconic accessory

company, joined other top fashion

leaders at a recent reception held

at Buckingham Palace in the

presence of HM the Queen and

HRH the Duke of Edinburgh.

Some of the most famous names

in the British clothing industry, including

Twiggy, Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman,

photographer David Bailey, Jeff Banks, Zandra Rhodes and Elizabeth and David Emanuel all attended the prestigious evening

drinks reception.

John Roberts, who was representing Dents, talked to HM the Queen about modern design and also about the company’s

long involvement with the British royal family, as Dents made the offi cial Coronation glove for both HM Queen Elizabeth

and her father King George IV.

To fi nd out more visit www.dents.co.uk

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ON WITH THE SHOW

Check out all the important news and dates for your business diary...

ACCESSORIES AT AUTUMN FAIR 2010

Following an exceptional Autumn Fair International 2009, which

attracted over 10,500 buyers of fashion accessories, show

organiser Emap Connect has announced a major investment

and expansion plans to further grow this market segment.

The highlight of Accessories at Autumn 2010 will be a brand

new Catwalk Café area, which will offer direction on new

trends for fashion-focused buyers. The catwalk will provide

a showcase for the full spectrum of fashion accessories and

all exhibitors in the sector will be centrally located around

the catwalk area to provide a focal point for visitors. With

collaboration from Emap’s international brands, which include

WGSN (World Global Style Network) the business has a strong

leadership position.

Event director Julie Driscoll comments: “Our ambition across

the two seasons at Autumn and Spring is to build Europe’s

largest fashion accessories offering. By working with Emap’s

fashion portfolio, we are absolutely leading the way on an

international scale in terms of fashion accessories trends.”

Speaking of the show’s new catwalk feature, the chief

executive of the BTAA (British Travel Goods and Accessories

Association), Diana Fiveash said: “I am thrilled that Autumn Fair

International will be launching its first accessories catwalk. The

fashion accessories industry is booming and the expansion

of the fashion accessories area in Hall 4 is a reflection of this.

Buyers will love the catwalk because it will help them to buy

on trend products and it will give exhibitors a chance to show

off their best ranges. The BTAA will certainly be supporting this

exciting venture.”

Autumn Fair International takes place from 5 th - 8 th September

2010 at the NEC in Birmingham, with volume halls open one

day early. Visit www.autumnfair.com for further details.

14 ATTIRE

Moda ups footwear stakes

Moda Footwear is set to play host to an increased number of fashion and

lifestyle brands with the expansion of its Life zone for the next edition of the

show, which takes place from 8 th - 10 th August 2010 at the NEC Birmingham.

The Life zone has established itself as a key buying destination for fashion

stores and footwear specialists, regularly featuring brands including Base

London, J Shoes, Frank Wright, Rockport, Ikon and Camel Active. The

expansion of the Life zone for August is designed to accommodate more new

names now looking to come into the show.

“Lifestyle fashion is one of our key growth areas, and the brands which have

been coming into the Life zone over the last couple of seasons have been very

pleased with the business they’ve done,” says Moda Footwear event director

Sean O’Connor. “It’s a very exciting area of the market, and we’ll be announcing

some more great new names over the next few weeks.”

Hush Puppies, which returned to the show this February after a season’s

absence, was one of a number of exhibitors to report its best ever show and

has already signed up for the August edition of the show, as well as other

brands including Boxfresh, Terra Plana, Rocket Dog and Rieker.

To find out more visit www.moda-uk.co.uk

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Home & Gift hots up

The organisers of Home & Gift, Harrogate have reported that the show is over 95% booked months ahead of its opening.

Last year’s show witnessed an 8% visitor increase and the optimism surrounding the event continues with the final exhibitor

count set to top 900 companies.

The highly anticipated show continues to command a loyal following of dedicated Home & Gift exhibitors, including the

most recognisable brand names in the industry showing key Christmas product launches. Just as impressive as the line up

of gift industry leaders is the volume of new companies signing up for the show. One in three exhibitors will not be appearing

at any other UK show this year, whilst debut names across all key sectors have topped 200.

‘Christmas profits all wrapped up’ will be the driver behind a dynamic series of the show’s Business Bite Seminars,

designed to help buyers maximise their profit potential during 2010 with expert advice delivered for free on trends,

merchandising, marketing and e-commerce topics. Buyers can then seek specific one-to-one advice and solutions from a

number of experts running the free

Retail Surgeries.

Naomi Hird, marketing

communications manager for Home &

Gift said: “Tough times demand

outstanding shows that help

gift buyers maximise their profit

opportunities. Home & Gift is already

providing the best timed show for

Christmas buying and it’s an event

that is attracting the industry’s

biggest names, brands and a huge

influx of brand new names and some

major returnees.”

Home & Gift will take place from

18 th – 21 st July 2010 at Harrogate

International Centre and Hotels.

Access www.homeandgift.co.uk to

find out more.

VISITOR NUMBERS UP AT ASIA’S FASHION JEWELLERY

& ACCESSORIES FAIR

Asia’s Fashion Jewellery & Accessories Fair was held from 3 rd to 6 th March at AsiaWorldExpo

in Hong Kong and concluded with visitor numbers up 15 per cent compared to the 2009

edition of the event.

The show organisers recorded 4,151 trade visitors from 83 countries and regions,

with over 70 per cent coming from overseas. The top 10 visiting countries and regions,

excluding Hong Kong and mainland China, were United States, Australia, Japan, Spain,

Korea, Italy, United Kingdom, Germany, France and India. In terms of exhibitors, 296

companies from 15 countries and regions

showcased their latest autumn/winter

collections. The exhibitors were from Australia,

Austria, Canada, China, France, Hong Kong,

India, Indonesia, Korea, Philippines, Taiwan,

Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United

Kingdom and United States.

“Compared to 2009, the number of visitors

is up 15 per cent. This inspiring figure of quality

visitors, who placed volume orders, confirms

to us that the industry is becoming more active

and that the world economy is on the mend,”

said Celine Lau, director of jewellery fairs at

UBM Asia.

The next edition of Asia’s Fashion Jewellery &

Accessories Fair will take place from 24 th - 27 th

June 2010 at the Hong Kong Convention and

Exhibition Centre. Access www.AsiaFJA.com

for more information.

Diary Dates

Pulse

6 th - 8 th June 2010

Earls Court, London

www.pulse-london.com

London Jewellery Week

7 th - 13 th June 2010

London

www.londonjewelleryweek.

co.uk

British Jewellery Week

16 th - 30 th June 2010

Across the UK

www.britishjewelleryweek.

co.uk

Asia’s Fashion Jewellery &

Accessories Fair

24 th - 27 th June 2010

Hong Kong Convention &

Exhibition Centre

Hong Kong

www.AsiaFJA.com

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products worth up to a total

value of £600 RRP courtesy

of DSL Licensing Ltd

DSL Licensing Ltd has been producing garments and accessories for a

variety of retail customers, sports and fashion brands for over 20 years.

In 2003, DSL Licensing Ltd launched its fi rst range of offi cially licensed

products, which now includes popular brands Storm, Irregular Choice and

Whatever It Takes.

Th e 2010 collections have some exciting new features, as is the case in

the Storm range, in which many of the pieces now feature new fi ttings

synonymous with the Storm jewellery range, such as the Connect watch.

Following on from the success of the fi rst Irregular Choice collections in

2009, some familiar pieces return with a new twist, plus some new handbags

inspired by the bestselling Irregular Choice boots.

DSL Licensing is delighted to be off ering one lucky retailer the chance

to win a selection of handbags from both the Storm West Province range

and the Irregular Choice Lola range. As an added prize for the winner, there

is also a Storm Connect watch and a £100 voucher to personally spend at

Irregular Choice.

To fi nd out more about DSL Licensing Ltd and its brands telephone

+44 (0)333 7000 001 or visit www.dsldesign.co.uk �

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DSL Licensing Ltd is off ering one lucky winner a prize package of Storm

and Irregular Choice products worth up to a total value of £600 RRP.

For your chance to win, simply answer the following question:

How long has DSL Licensing Ltd been producing garments and

accessories for?

Visit the website www.attireaccessories.com and fi ll in the on-line

competition form to enter the draw. Deadline for entries is 25 th June 2010.

Terms and conditions apply.

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BRAND SPANKING NEW

Our exclusive round-up of the newest products around...

CLERE VISION

Product: 2010 sunglasses range.

Contact: Access www.clerevision.co.uk

Price: RRP £18 to £20.

Specifi cation: Clere Vision has launched it’s new range of sunglasses which are punctuated

with contrasting stripes and studded with crystals. The graduated lenses

naturally provide full UV protection and the designs come complete with a soft

touch matching case.

Retailer Benefi ts: Some of the ranges have co-ordinating accessories, increasing the opportunity

of higher value sales.

Other Information: Clere Vision is an award-winning supplier of fashion reading glasses, tinted

readers and sunglasses.

BABY PHAT

Product: Moroccan Kiss collection.

Contact: Access www.babyphat.com

Price: Available on application.

Specifi cation: The spring/summer 2010 collection by Baby Phat is ultra glamorous, encompassing shades of

coral, turquoise, pink, and violet. Moroccan style is refl ected in jewel toned pieces, bright tie-dye

and acid washes, embroidery, bohemian prints and chunky jewellery.

Retailer Benefi ts: Baby Phat is an established brand, therefore many consumers will recognise its

distinctive products.

Other Information: The collection takes infl uence from the 1970s.

HAZEL ATKINSON JEWELLERY

Product: Heaven and Earth collection.

Contact: Visit www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk

Price: Wholesale prices start from £5.50.

Specifi cation: Hazel Atkinson adds new colours and shapes to her successful Heaven and

Earth range of hand crafted, anodized aluminium jewellery. The new Hot Pink

range evokes the heat of summer, while the Cool Daisy products are

more sophisticated and the Warm Earth items conjure visions of

desert landscapes.

Retailer Benefi ts: The vibrant collection will look great in shop windows or display cabinets, and

is certain to attract consumers’ attention.

Other Information: Hazel Atkinson is a Nottingham based designer, who established the brand in 1984.

HOTTER SHOES

Product: Lulworth shoe.

Contact: Visit www.hottershoes.com

Price: RRP £32.

Specifi cation: Hotter’s new casual lace up – Lulworth – comprises of cool lined cotton

canvas in a choice of fun and eye-catching materials. Designs include:

denim, khaki, pink, beige gingham and lavender gingham.

Retailer Benefi ts: The shoes are ideal for wear with other summer products including

swimwear, shorts, sun tops, crops and jeans.

Other Information: The shoes are available in sizes 3-9.

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ORIS

Product: Oris Sportsman watch.

Contact: Visit www.oris.ch

Price: RRP £650.

Specifi cation: The BC3 Sportsman is a 2010 redesign of the popular Oris watch that was launched 10 years

ago. The new version includes automatic mechanical movement and centralised second,

minute and hour displays.

Retailer Benefi ts: This design is available in a choice of three straps – classic leather, stainless steel or rubber.

Other Information: The watch includes a screw-down crown and high water resistance of 100m.

SEVDA MUTLU

Product: Autumn/winter 2010 collection.

Contact: Visit www.sevdamutlu.com

Price: Wholesale prices range from £100 to £250.

Specifi cation: Sevda Mutlu’s heritage continues to be the main inspiration for her new autumn/winter

collection. Taking infl uence from design in both London and Istanbul, the collection

combines textile traditions with innovation.

Retailer benefi ts: The bags have timeless style that will appeal to a wide audience.

Other information: The hand crafted accessories are available in an array of colours including white,

sand, black, espresso, brown, chestnut, red and purple.

PICTURE CASE

Product: New luggage ranges.

Contact: Visit www.picturecase.co.uk

Price: RRPs start at £64.99.

Specifi cation: Picture Case presents its collection of colourful and fun luggage. The

unique pictures on the cases means that they stand out from the usual,

plain block coloured luggage, making them easier to point out on the

airport carousel.

Retailer Benefi ts: The personalised cases make great gifts for consumers and the cabin

sized ranges are ideal for hen/stag parties, football supporters or holiday makers.

Other Information: Six ranges are available in three sizes; 20inch, 24inch and 28inch.

TEZER DESIGN

Product: Sterling silver jewellery collection.

Contact: Visit www.tezer-design.de

Price: Collier £420 and earrings £50.

Specifi cation: Tezer’s collection features this collier and matching earrings made from

sterling silver with freshwater pearl. The knot design is very delicate and

feminine, giving the necklace a three-dimensional look.

Retailer Benefi ts: The contemporary and simple designs in the range will be popular

through all seasons.

Other Information: Tezer is based in Frankfurt and was formed in 1992.

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TRACY DAVISON CONTEMPORARY JEWELLERY

Product: Naked collection.

Contact: Visit www.tracydavison.co.uk

Price: Available on application.

Specifi cation: Muted, nude tones combine with dainty, themed Sterling Silver charms

and Swarovski crystal in Tracy’s signature collection. The new Naked

collection is available in chic pastel colours of pale pink, mint, aqua and

ice white.

Retailer Benefi ts: The fresh sorbet colours are in keeping with the season’s hottest trends.

Other Information: Tracy Davison’s other limited edition collections include Seafoam, Fleur,

Ice Cream and Ditsy Flowers.

THE BRANCH

Product: Autumn/winter collection.

Contact: Access www.thebranch.co.uk

Price: This style has an RRP of £105 in silver and £112 in gold.

Specifi cation: This particular item from the new collection is handcrafted and

combines rosewood, 18ct gold place silver and either green aventurine

or black onyx stones.

Retailer Benefi ts: The gorgeous collection is high quality and the items have an affordable

price tag.

Other Information: The designs are available in small/medium or medium/large sizes.

PAVONI

Product: New bag range for men.

Contact: Access www.vittoriaipavoni.com

Price: Wholesale prices range from £65 to £85.

Specifi cation: The new men’s collection from Pavoni is available in two ranges, Campania and

Piemonte. The Campania articles are made from soft calf leather, whilst the

Piemonte pieces use robust deer skin.

Retailer Benefi ts: Pavoni is an established brand, and the quality and simple design of the bags in the

collection target a sophisticated audience.

Other Information: The family owned label specialises in leather accessories which are created in Italy.

STEPBYSTEP

Product: New jewellery collection.

Contact: Access www.stepbystep-uk.com

Price: RRPs range from £80 to £350.

Specifi cation: This distinctive collection uses strong geometric shapes and

lines, along with fl exible movement to create statement

pieces of jewellery.

Retailer Benefi ts: There are nearly 125 items in the collection, so there is

something for any consumer.

Other Information: The necklace, bracelet, earring, brooch and ring designs are

all handcrafted and designed in Switzerland.

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Something for the

We take a look at some versatile

weekend and overnight style bags

that are worth going way for...

Whilst many people start the new year with plans

to take an annual summer holiday, as the autumn

months loom much of the general public is itching

to get away again for a short break, a weekend

or even just an overnight stay. As memories of a

summer vacation and sunburn fades, a great escape

to a diff erent location is often an option that

can energise us, and, of course, this presents an

excellent opportunity for retailers to bring weekend

and overnight style bags in store.

Hempleman

22 ATTIRE

Bagsac

Weekend

A shorter break logically requires a smaller bag,

however, when luggage has come on in such leaps

and bounds in terms of style and functionality

over the last few years, a normal sports holdall just

isn’t going to cut it for trend-savvy consumers.

Th ankfully, there is a whole host of fantastic brands

that off er weekend and overnight bags that more

than match sophisticated suitcases for fashion

credentials, and these designs are often more

appealing in store due to their manageable size

and scope for more interesting fabrics. Heritage

style holdalls that are as durable as they are elegant

frequently feature stunning leathers and quality

detailing, whilst overnight bags often feature

the striking colours and eye catching additions

of oversized handbag styles that have been so

prominent on the high street in recent seasons.

Read on for our pick of the best weekend and

overnight bags on the market...

On trend brand Bagsac has introduced a stylish

collection for discerning travellers, featuring an

exclusive yet aff ordable range of cabin trolleys

with matching laptop cases and travel bags. Th e

glamorous collection is Bagsac’s measured response

to the increasing trend towards shorter trips and

city breaks for consumers and business travellers.

Two exclusive and desirable variants are being

launched under the Bagsac brand. A practical

trolley with a subtle monogram print trimmed with

crocodile-eff ect plastic, available in black or brown,

and an all synthetic-crocodile trolley available in

chic black and a distinctive shade of purple. Email

info@netplant.co.uk for further details.

Pavoni

Brunotti Bags

Th e beautiful Monaco Trolley from Hempleman

adds a whole new meaning to travelling in style,

featuring stunning, winter white quilted leather

and black patent leather trim with gold fi ttings

and luxe red twill interior. Th e wheels are specially

designed so that the sophisticated trolley glides

with ease, making this product the ideal travelling

companion. Th e Monaco Trolley is without a

doubt a statement of elegance and has caused

quite a storm since its launch. Th e new Monaco

Trolley is a fabulous addition to Hempleman’s

gorgeous Monaco range of handbags, travel bags

and accessories. Telephone +44 (0)1225 852 732 for

more information.

Taurus Leather

Th e stunning Campania range from Italian brand

Pavoni includes two stylish and functional travel

pieces for autumn/winter 2010. A very spacious

and deep weekend tote with long twin strap

handles fi ts comfortably over the shoulder and

features on trend, metallic stud detail which gives

this practical piece a hint of high fashion. Pavoni’s

weekend design off ers all that is needed for a

Claudia Canova

6876

short break, such as huge internal space with large

top access, versatile outer pockets, grab handles,

handstitched leather ribbon and a body strap.

Th e sleek designs are available in one or bi-colour

options and are made in the luxury soft ‘octopus’

sheep leather in seasonal colours. Visit the website

www.vittoriaipavoni.com for further details.

Th e vibrant Brunotti Bags travel collection has

a laidback surf vibe with a cheerful cocktail of

tropical colours and fl owery prints that are perfect

for putting consumers in holiday mode. Nature is

a main source of inspiration behind the appealing

collection, which features plant and animal prints

on the bags and in the lining. After seasons using

mostly plastic materials, robust canvas is making

a comeback for the brand to give the funky bags

a sturdy eco appeal. Th e travel collection from

the brand takes consumers to the world of kite

surfers, and the trolleys are specially developed for

Brunotti, off ering the very best in functionality. To

fi nd out more email info@netplant.co.uk

R6 is a collaborative project combining the design

aesthetic of the 6876 brand and the manufacturing

expertise of Regent England’s premier luxury,

leather artisans. Th e foundation collection features

belts, bags, wallets and lanyards designed to

harmonise with 6876 clothing. Long term fans

will recognise that the brand’s design elements,

themes and concepts have been worked into the

range alongside some fresh and innovative styling.

Th e three luggage items in the range consist of the

Capandula design, which utilizes the pocket detail

Disaster Designs

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from 6876’s iconic outerwear style, the Spinny

vintage rucksack and the Vital spark luxury duffl e,

all of which are produced in English shower proof

canvas and high quality leather. Access the website

www.sixeightsevensix.com to fi nd out more.

Experienced company Taurus Leather has a

fantastic off ering of eye catching bags available

as part of its consistently successful Elite Models’

Fashion range. Th e versatile and cool designs

are sumptuously soft and squishy, and many are

large enough to make the bags a good, practical

choice for a well deserved trip away. Colours in the

fabulous range include chic beige, feminine purple,

elegant teal and striking fuchsia. Visit the website

www.taurus-leather.co.uk for further details.

An exciting new travel range from Claudia

Canova has had an excellent response since its

introduction at the start of this year as part of the

brand’s autumn/winter 2010 collection. Designs

include luggage and a vanity case in gunmetal

snake embellished with studs for a rock and roll

edge, as well as a matching chic oversized handbag

in leopard or snake print that can be carried or

pulled along on wheels for the glamorous traveller.

Claudia Canova is the fashionable synthetic sister

range to the Smith & Canova leather brand and

it continues to grow at a fantastic, steady rate. Call

+44 (0)1132 406 662 for more information.

Disaster Designs is now 21 years old and this

season sees the company’s range of lifestyle fashion

accessories hit new highs of loveliness. As the

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Alison van der Lande

trend for oversized bags remains in full swing,

Disaster is showing statement weekend bags in a

number of new capsule collections. Th e adorable

Flutters and Fancies style has a Scandinavian feel,

where modern illustration meets vintage styling,

whilst the company’s popular Pretty City London

collection takes in iconic landmarks to create the

perfect weekend bag. Fresh and reminiscent of

lazy long weekends in high summer, the weekend

bag is ideal for last minute weekend breaks in hip

locations. For further details access the website

www.disasterdesigns.co.uk

British youth in the mid-sixties is the inspiration

behind the latest collection from Skive & Toole

London, which incorporates the iconic style of

Mods and Rockers for an English gent look with a

rock and roll feel that is perfect for a great escape.

Th e maverick Doherty range takes on the Mod

look with polished styling and tonal colour mixes

Carlton

24 ATTIRE

including oxblood and black gunmetal hardware.

Jagger is the ultimate rocker of the collection with

metal zip pockets to add a tough fi nish to rich

black leather and subtle raven edging for cool,

eff ortless style. Visit www.skiveandtoole.com to

fi nd out more.

Th e brilliant Venezia weekend bags from respected

designer Alison van der Lande are ideal for all

those long weekends away. Th e perfect hand

luggage travel size for an aeroplane, consumers

can also use the design as a fabulously fashionable

gym bag or just to travel in style wherever their

adventures take them. Available in elegant shades

of chocolate brown, black, orange, denim blue,

raspberry and whisky, the Venezia style from

Alison van der Lande is an understated yet hugely

appealing choice for many consumers. Access the

brand website www.alisonvanderlande.co.uk for

more information.

Th e gorgeous Honolulu style from Fiorelli

has been given a dramatic makeover for the

brand’s autumn/winter collection. A glimpse

of seductiveness has been added to this already

popular, oversized design with crushed black

velvet, taking this versatile hobo shape through to

the colder months when a quick trip away is on

consumer’s minds. Other weekend appropriate

bags in the stylish Fiorelli range inlcude Vanilla,

a sophisticated printed design in a warm bronze

Skive & Toole London

Fiorelli

tone, and Blushing Lady, a funky style that features

stud detailing and plenty of room for overnight

essentials. To fi nd out more visit www.fi orelli.com

Th e timeless Ascot holdall from established brand

Carlton is a staple piece this season, made from a

traditional British herringbone fabric. Th e holdall

comes in deep brown and black with a lavish

purple lining and leatherette trims as a lovely

fi nishing touch. Th e interior of the design has two

side mesh pockets and a large side pocket with a

zipper for valuables, and as this is a double decker

holdall it also has a section on the bottom which

is separated by a zipper, perfect for storing shoes

and hair straighteners. Th e classic Ascot bag is

suitable for cabin luggage on most airlines and is

also perfect for a swift weekend getaway. Access

the brand website www.carltontravelgoods.com

for further information. A

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www.kalivalson.co.uk

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HEMPLEMAN COLLECTION

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What was your career background before

you launched the Osprey London brand?

I went to art school where I initially dreamed

of becoming a writer before setting off to

see something of the world. When I came

back to the UK, I needed a job and almost

by accident I began work selling leather

belts. This was something that I seemed to

excel at, particularly after I began to modify

the designs of the belts to better suit my

26 ATTIRE

OSPREY

takes Flight

Osprey founder Graeme Ellisdon tells us about the successful brand’s

promising new outlet channel and original stores...

customers and what I felt was happening in

the market. So, at the age of just 25 and with

only £500 and a pocketful of dreams, in 1980

I launched my own business, Osprey London.

What prompted you to launch the business?

The success I’d had led me to believe I

could make a go of the business with a

beautifully hand worked product. It was an

incredibly optimistic time. I have always loved

working with leather because it’s a natural

material with real integrity that improves

with age. When I’m making a bag, belt or

wallet it reminds me of my father, who was

a carpenter. As natural materials leather

and wood require work and craftsmanship

to transform them from something raw into

something beautiful that lives on. There’s

something about the ancient simplicity of that

which I really relate to.

How did you decide on and develop the

new brand concept of the Osprey London

stores?

Osprey London had long been retailed

through premium stores such as House of

Fraser and John Lewis, but as a brand owner

you are never fully in control of the brand

experience for customers unless you retail it

yourself. We first opened a flagship lifestyle

store, Osprey Home and then our own

e-commerce site back in 2006, but the retail

environment was changing rapidly and we

decided it was time to reach out to a wider

customer base. We were inspired by how

premium designer brands like Ralph Lauren

and Coach had done this in the United States

and so, along with developing our existing

premium retail channels, we put together

an outlet strategy. Today’s customer does

not exclusively shop on the high street any

more than he or she exclusively shops online:

people buy from designer stores, online, from

the high street and, increasingly, from outlets.

While many of my UK peers expressed

surprise initially that we were taking this

route, the success of our first Osprey London

store in York Designer Outlet in October 2009

shows that there is huge potential to replicate

the American model in the UK, provided

you offer your outlet customer a premium

brand experience. While we have a long

established wholesale offer and a growing

online business, adding an outlet channel to

our business puts us more firmly in control of

our future development.

How did you choose the premises and

locations of your stores?

We worked really closely with GVA Grimley

to identify the best fit for the brand, looking

at the local demographics and adjacencies

within potential locations. Together we

identified 15 key centres for launch and

developed a beautiful shop fit with Jamieson

Smith Associates. On top of our existing

stores at York Designer Outlet, Gunwharf

Quays in Portsmouth, Gloucester Quays and

Swindon Designer Outlet we have opened

an Osprey London store at Clarks Village in

Street, Somerset, with others planned for later

this year.

How would you describe the presentation of

the stores?

We set out to create a store that fully reflects

our brand so that the customer really can

Retailer Interview

enjoy a premium brand experience wherever

he or she comes into contact with Osprey

London, whether at our flagship store

outside St Albans, online or at outlet. The

store design takes many of its cues from the

flagship lifestyle store Osprey Home, where

the vibe of a country gentleman’s home is

tempered with quirkier finds from my travels.

Nature and vintage materials play a key role in

bringing the outlet Osprey London store style

to life. While the products are merchandised

on formal looking armoires in rich timber

placed on Travertine flooring, feature product

displays are created on a vintage leather

sofa or a rough-hewn table. The store design

perfectly captures the interplay of an English

formal style with something warmer and

individual like our driftwood chandeliers.

It’s this interplay that is the essence of the

Osprey London style.

The shop fixtures are designed to suit each

product range. Strategically placed display

features help to break up the product sectors

and lead the customer through the store to

the rear, where an imposing black glass wall

with brand signage sits behind the cash desk,

itself created from a huge, rough-hewn piece

of wood.

ATTIRE 27

This homely feel extends throughout the

store as our vintage handmade rugs, leather

armchairs and gentle lighting helps to create

a comfortable environment in which the

customer can truly enjoy shopping. In short, it

is a design that would work equally well for a

London flagship store.

What do you consider to be your core

customer base?

I’ve always had a very distinguished clientele,

from royalty to stars of stage, screen, music

and the arts through to people who are at the

top of their business profession. You could

say Osprey London appeals to the man and

woman who appreciate the quiet luxury of

beautifully made leather accessories.

How important is product knowledge and

customer service in store?

Both product knowledge and customer

service are hugely important in store - without

them, everything else falls flat.

How important is an online presence to your

plans for the business?

Our online presence is important in so

many ways as it’s our shop window to the

28 ATTIRE

world and an essential corporate resource.

When you visit the Osprey London website

we encourage you to sign up to become a

V.I.P. so that you can receive regular e-news

updates, access to private sales and sneak

previews of new collections. This direct

communication with customers is essential to

growing the brand.

Do you run any special events to attract

new custmers and support your established

customer base?

Each of our own sales channels has a

12-month marketing programme to ensure

established customers are rewarded for their

loyalty and to encourage new customers

to join. You have to give every customer a

reason to want to return!

What has been your proudest moment since

opening the Osprey stores?

The fit out of the new Osprey Swindon store

involved so many staff, from the new team to

the head office staff and the Gloucester team

that got involved with training and set up. We

had over 20 people on the job at the same

time. Being a small part of that team made

me feel very proud!

How do you view the current state of the

market?

We rather relish the challenge of times

like these, having been through a number

of recessions in our history! We’re doing

extremely well through our own stores,

online and at John Lewis because there will

always be a market for a great product that is

sensitively priced.

What advice would you pass onto other

retailers?

It’s important to be nimble, to look to the

future and to anticipate what comes next. If

customers aren’t buying what you’re offering,

don’t try and change the customer’s mind,

change your offer!

What are your future plans for the business?

We will continue developing our collections

with a move into other areas of clothing

later this year, and while our online and retail

development will continue in the UK, we

think now is also the time to start to look at

opportunities overseas. These are interesting

times for Osprey London. A

Further information

To find out more call +44 (0)1582 877 205

or visit www.ospreylondon.com

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Pulse strikes a balance between home grown talent and international

exhibitors this year to ensure that retailers can fi nd top new products.

Read on to fi nd out more...

IN BRIEF

Show: Pulse

Date: 6 th - 8 th June, 2010

Venue: Earls Court, London

Opening hours: Sunday and Monday

9:30am – 6pm, Tuesday 9:30am - 5pm

Pre-registration: www.pulse-london.com

Trade only

Pulse is known as one of London’s most enjoyable

exhibitions, with an invigorating atmosphere that

is surely enhanced by the fact that it is a show that

puts visitors in mind of a fun fi lled summer.

Th is year, Pulse is set to play host to over 500

designers eager to meet the buyers in search of

fashion, gift and interior accessories products

that will set their store apart in the run up to

the much anticipated new season. Th e show

spans fi ve diff erent zones consisting of Fashion

Accessories & Jewellery, Gift, Home, Bath &

Body and Launchpad, with this edition of Pulse

featuring new products from British designers as

well as those from Japan, Denmark, Italy, France

and Norway. Over 10% of Pulse is in fact now

dedicated to international companies, with the

East meets Pulse section of particular note, acting

as a showcase of Eastern design from Japanesy. A

portfolio of Israeli creativity will also be on show

courtesy of designers who made their debut at

Pulse last year.

Launchpad is one of the most interesting areas

at Pulse as it enables visitors to see new designs

from talent hailing from the UK and overseas,

with over 100 exhibitors confi rmed for the event.

In addition to the Launchpad awards, this year

Launchpad will include the ‘Selected by Central

St Martins’ area, where the next generation of

designers will have the opportunity to feature

products that are ready to go in-store. Th is will be

run alongside ‘Visually Odd’ a brand new initiative

organised in conjunction with Curate 40, which

enables designers specialising in illustration, print

and product to showcase their work at Pulse.

When making their way around the show,

visitors can look out for the expanded Product

GB trail to source British designed, made and

manufactured products, whilst TV Presenter

and eco champion, Oliver Heath, will return to

support the accredited Pulse Eco Trail to enable

buyers to source items that are ethically produced,

sustainable and biodegradable or reusable.

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Pulse will also provide a seminar and surgery

programme to help retailers discover the trends

and technologies that will resonate with consumers

tomorrow. Th is will be supported by free one-toone

appointments with industry experts, who

will be on hand to trouble-shoot individual

business issues.

Neil Gaisford, show director of Pulse, says of

this year’s energised show: “As competition on the

high street intensifi es, it is essential that stores off er

their customers something unique and special;

something to make their business really stand out

from the high street. With this foremost in our

minds, Pulse is committed to helping retailers

discover leading brands, new design talent that

they will not see at any other UK show and

thousands of innovative new products that will get

their business noticed.”

Read on for our preview of products at

the exhibition...

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Lotusfeet

Stand: S49

Tel: +44 (0)7786 387 906

Web: www.lotusfeet.co.uk

Lotusfeet is a family business intent on providing quality, design led fashion

accessories with a social conscience, working with cooperatives, individuals

and small family businesses in the Philippines. New for 2010 is the company’s

recycled collection, Ode to Nature, using discarded noodle packet wrappers which

are turned into brightly beaded necklaces and bangles. Another collection from Lotusfeet uses a versatile material innovation, NATURESCAST®, which is a

sustainable alternative to wood. Forest debris such as dry leaves and dead shrubs are bound using an odourless, water based glue, then the material is moulded to

form necklace components, pendants and bangles. Lotusfeet also supports Go Green, a project set up to revitalise, replenish and preserve the natural resources on

which the costume jewellery industry in the Philippines depends on.

Disaster Designs

Stand: M23

Tel: +44 (0)1323 441 444

Web: www.disasterdesigns.

co.uk

Funky company Disaster

Designs has reached the

fabulous age of 21 with a

great range of lifestyle fashion

accessories. Th e eye-catching

Flutters and Fancies design

has a cool Scandinavian feel

where modern illustration

meets appealing vintage styling

that taps into current trends.

Another successful capsule

collection for Disaster Designs

is the popular Pretty City

London range, which pays homage to the capital with products that

feature familiar landmarks and is inspired by travel, making the designs

perfect for stylish journeys.

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RedDog Ltd

Stand: S27

Tel: +44 (0)7515 539 029

Web: www.bagpod.com

Eliash Jewellery

Stand: Q26

Tel: +44 (0)208 560 2685

Email: information@eliashjewellery.com

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Eliash Jewellery off ers a wonderful collection of vibrant designs in

fashion-led colour combinations and is constantly updating its beautiful,

silver set, semi-precious jewellery, holding over 500 designs. Th e

company is well known for its signature Banded Agate collection in

dazzling shades of pink, purple and green. New pendants for autumn

2010 include a baroque inspired pearl pendant adorned with rock

crystals, a pendant with a shower of blue topaz fl owers, and a set of tiny

crystal crosses. Th ese fresh designs are in addition to new combinations

in all of Eliash Jewellery’s most popular designs, refl ecting the season’s

colour predictions. Th e company has also expanded its range of rings

and earrings to include new additions, such as a generously sized

cushion cut design.

RedDog Abergavenny is still making waves in the fashion accessories and gift market. At Pulse the

company is launching its new autumn colours for the original BagPod handbag organiser and for the

RedDog handbags, as well as this season’s limited edition leather BagPod style. In addition, RedDog is

introducing the clever new BagPod Fusion design, which will bring a whole new dimension to handbag

organisers and liners.

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Sigal Distribution Ltd

Happy to present Michal Negrin and Ayala Bar Winter Collections

Please visit us at PULSE - London Stand R47 and HOME & GIFT - Harrogate Stand QS70

Email: sigaldistribution@gmail.com T: 01784 482888

Janina Grigore is a

London based jewellery

designer who creates

unique and high quality

artisan jewellery for

women who want to

feel special, spoilt

and uplifted.

Launched in 2009, Janina Grigore Jewellery is a collection of distinctive

gem-wrapped jewellery which features semi precious stones, pearls and

oxidised sterling silver and combines intricate wire work techniques with top

quality gemstones. Each piece is individually designed and entirely handcrafted

to express elegance, romance and colour. By the nature of how the jewels are

created, each piece is subtly different from the next. Attention to detail and high

quality craftsmanship is of great importance throughout the creation process.

Janina Grigore - Jewellery | Geanina Grigore - Designer & Founder

www.janinagrigore.com

E info@janinagrigore.com · M 0781 506 2669

www.fairtradewholesale.co.uk

Sophisticated and

Bold Designs,

Feminine & delicate...

The result is timeless

jewellery.

Email: info@earthsquared.com | Tel: 01620 824 392

Pulse Stand T29 | Home & Gift Stand QS-111

Recycled, Reused & Sustainable

Summer Collection 2010

Pulse Stand S49

jewellery . fashion accessories . display stands

www.lotusfeet.co.uk e: lotus@lotusfeet.co.uk t: 07786387906

JACKIE BRAZIL SHOWING AT PULSE STAND P25

Tel: 01212885830

E: gus@jackiebrazil.com

Fizbag

Stand: C32

Tel: +44 (0)1534 481 927

Web: www.fi zbag.com

Th e impressive Fizbag Big Shopper folds up neatly into a small square

when not in use to keep in a handbag, the glove compartment of a car

or any small storage space around the house. Th e practical and colourful

Big Shopper opens up simply and quickly, and is cleverly structured to

be strong so that the shopper’s job of fi lling it is easy! Th e size of the Big

Shopper when folded is 14cmx14cm excluding handles, whereas when

the product is open it measures a useful 45cmx40cm excluding handles.

Janina Grigore Jewellery

Stand: U33

Tel: +44 (0)7815 062 669

Web: www.janinagrigore.com

Janina Grigore is

a London based

jewellery artist who

creates unique and

high quality pieces

with a romantic and

elegant feel. Th e

gorgeous Euphoria

collection, which will

be displayed at Pulse,

includes distinctive

gem-wrapped

jewels featuring

semi-precious

stones, pearls and

sterling silver. Th e collection combines intricate wirework techniques with top

quality gemstones. Each piece is individually designed and handcrafted for the

woman who wants to feel special and beautiful.

Mirabelle

Stand: U26

Tel: +44 (0)207 607 7732

Web: www.mirabellejewellery.co.uk

All of the stunning jewellery from

Mirabelle is produced by Fair Trade

suppliers using sterling silver, 22k gold

plated metals, semi precious stones, carved

mother of pearl, wood and shells from

trusted sources. Mirabelle’s accessibly priced

jewellery box essentials are classic investment

pieces, updated with eclectic, fashion-led

collections encapsulating founder Véronique

Henry’s eff ortless style. Th e vibrant designs are

characterised by a love of texture, form, ethnic

symbolism and natural materials, with a contemporary

range that includes armfuls of bangles dotted with vibrantly

coloured recycled glass to perfect hoop earrings.

Poltsa

Stand: R50

Tel: +44 (0)208 395 6152

Web: www.poltsa.co.uk

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Poltsa is the offi cial distributor of the all in one, handmade pendant

scarves. New to the UK, the fi ne Italian fabric of the pendant scarf is

a blend of cotton and viscose, providing a soft feeling against the skin.

Each one-of-a-kind pendant is individually handmade by Barcelona

based designer Sol, and uses Czech Swarovski crystals, glass, shell and

other nickel free decorative beads, which are then attached to the scarf

by matching coloured silk cord. Th e pretty pendant scarf is ideal for any

occasion and is available in packs of eight, with one scarf in each colour,

and the design of the pendant will vary.

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Uppercase

Stand: LP53

Tel: +49 (0)40 4696 6043

Web: www.uppercase.de

Th e Hamburg based design label Uppercase is making its debut in the UK market at Pulse

2010. Th e company’s products, including a collection of knitted premium scarves in vibrant

colours and unique designs, can be found in over 30 shops in Germany, Austria, Switzerland,

Iceland and the USA. Uppercase will celebrate the world launch of its latest products, Plaid Black

Cashmere and Plaid Black Merino, at Pulse. Th ese are two collections of knitted full size premium

blankets with stunning graphic designs, created with the same love for quality and humour as the

company’s scarves.

Jewelcity

Stand: P32

Tel: +44 (0)1494 444 200

Web: www.jewelcity.co.uk

An amazing 900 new lines,

including a brand new designer

range, is to be launched by Jewelcity

at Pulse 2010. Jewelcity has become

a main fashion jewellery and

accessories supplier to independent

retailers and department stores,

after some very strong growth in

the past several years. Th e company

has proved that an up to date range,

good quality products at incredible

prices and effi cient service continues

to work within the current economy.

Jewelcity off ers a minimum order of

£30 only.

Carrie Elspeth Ltd

Stand: P47

Tel: +44 (0)1446 771 271

Web: www.carrieelspeth.com

Th e latest collection from Carrie Elspeth

features dreamy hearts, lively colours,

Swarovski sparkle and fabulously fun

designs using unique Millefi ore glass

as part of the company’s huge range. If

buyers are looking for luxurious limited

edition designs then the best selling

Opulence collection is essential, set

off perfectly by Carrie’s new, exclusive

branded busts. Th e fast-selling, exclusive

designer jewellery continues to be

beautifully handmade in Wales and

Carrie is also extremely proud to off er

fabulous packaging and an exceptional

level of customer service.

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Pearls of the Orient

Stand: R45

Tel: +44(0)1483 533 483

Web: www.pearlsoftheorient.co.uk

Pearls of the Orient’s collection

not only includes the latest fun

designs in pearls and semiprecious

stones, but also off ers

an extensive range of classic

jewellery to suit day or evening

wear and special occasions. Th e

latest off ering from the company

has captured the vibrant colours of summer in styles such as a versatile

cultured freshwater pearl loop necklace, which worn long over a t-shirt

or doubled up under the collar of a white shirt will add zest to the

current season’s wardrobe. Th e company can provide a bespoke service,

aff ordable prices and no minimum order.

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SILVER SERVICE JEWELLERY

Pulse Stand Number U32

07801 945 110

tilly@silverservicejewellery.co.uk

www.silverservicejewellery.co.uk

PULSE - STAND Q26

www.eliashjewellery.com

+44 (0) 20 8560 2685

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Monili Silver

Exciting new Summer collection from Monili. And for the fi rst

time our new and exclusive Fusion jewellery collection.

See us at

Pulse

Stand Q45

Tel: 01565 872220 • Email: sales@monilisilver.co.uk

www.monilisilver.co.uk

Corner Barn, Noon Sun Farm, Noahs Ark Lane, Great Warford, Cheshire, WA16 7AU

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What new features can visitors to

Pulse 2010 expect to discover?

Th is year Pulse is over 10% bigger than

the previous year, with a great number of

international brands making the journey

to Earls Court to showcase innovative

products and trends not previously seen on

home turf. We are delighted to welcome

back the Israeli Pavilion designers who

made their fantastic debut last year with

inspiring jewellery and fashion accessories.

New to the show this year is Japanesey - a

cherry-picked selection of accessories

from Japan in celebration of the theme,

‘Japan Now’. Th e work of today’s designers

springs from a creative pool of traditional

ideas of form and function intermingled

with strong Western infl uences.

How can visitors to Pulse use the

exhibition to boost their business?

Th e theme for Pulse 2010 is ‘standout

products for stand-out stores.’

In an increasingly competitive retail

environment, the challenge is to get

noticed in the crowd. Pulse is a show where

you will fi nd inspirational leading names

in contemporary design from around the

globe, all with product ranges that are ontrend,

distinctive and will off er buyers a real

point of diff erence from their competitors.

Crucially, Pulse is the only place where you

can discover these brands as many of them

will not be appearing at any other UK

event this summer.

Do you have any exciting new

exhibitors or product launches at the

show?

Pulse is full to the brim with new product

and new exhibitors. Unique to Pulse is

Pulse Rate

We speak to Neil Gaisford, show director of Pulse, to get the inside story on

this year’s event.

Launchpad, an exceptional platform for

emerging and undiscovered design talent

to meet the retail market. Pulse welcomes

over 100 new designers to the showcase

this year, which includes, for the fi rst time,

international companies looking to break

into the UK market.

Will you be including feature areas at

the exhibition to showcase trends?

At Pulse, you will spot the trends today

that customers will be yearning for

tomorrow. Industry trend magazine MIX

is committed to spotting the trends,

stories and theories that will resonate

with consumers in autumn/winter 2010,

and together we selected one of these

trends to explore at Pulse this summer.

Th e trend ‘Show’ takes a fresh approach

to the common theme of countryside and

turns it on its head. Th e colour scheme

is henceforth completely alien to nature,

full of bright, acid blocks of yellow,

blue and green. Th ere is a vitality and

experimentalism to this particular trend;

quirky applications and accessories for

everyday objects, fun shapes and patterns

that are characterised by chequers, stripes,

stars and diagonals.

Do you have any informative free

seminars and networking events

planned?

Having spoken to retailers, we know

what subjects matter to them. Th e Pulse

seminar programme will cover trends and

key business advice. We are working to

secure a high-profi le speaker, so watch

this space! Th e seminar programme is

currently under construction but we are

delighted to announce that Sitemakers

and Craig Philipson from Shopworks are

confi rmed to share their retail expertise.

Th e programme will also include one-toone

retail surgeries.

What would you say are the main

attractions of Pulse for fashion

accessory retailers?

Th e wealth of new talent and the

abundance of new products are key

attractions not to be missed at the

exhibition, but the combination of this,

along with an off ering of product you will

not fi nd at any other UK show, is what

makes Pulse truly unmissable.

How would you like to see Pulse

develop over the next few years?

Pulse is positioned as a unique buying

opportunity, where people can be inspired

and buy something diff erent. Th is year’s

show will be very strong, the standard

of content is high so we are expecting

strong levels of buying and an increase in

visitors. As for the future, our plans are to

signifi cantly develop the show further -

and while I cannot go into any more detail

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at the moment, I can tell you we are all

very excited! �

Further

information

To fi nd out more

visit www.pulselondon.com

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Planning to succeed

It may not always be clear how important it is to produce a business plan. James

Stancombe, Business Link Advisor, explains how to go about it – and why it’s essential.

When you started your

business you may well

have produced a business

plan – but have you

looked at it since? People

may tell you that you

need a business plan even

though your business

is established, but why

should you bother?

It’s very easy just to carry on as you are when you’re

running a small business and focus on day-to-day

activities, rather than looking at the bigger picture.

However, when you look closely at some of the

most successful businesses, you’ll find that they’ve

made time to create and manage budgets, as well as

regularly monitor finances and performance.

When money is tight, re-visiting your business

plan, especially your budgets and cash flow

forecasts, can help you identify ways to reduce

costs and improve your sales and profits. Business

planning will also help you to focus on things that

could be changed, and come up with ideas to revitalise

your business.

You are probably already undertaking many of

the activities associated with business planning

such as looking at new products, keeping an eye

on your competitors and checking cash flow and

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profit, even if you haven’t formalised this into a

written plan. The beginning of the financial year

is a good time to do your planning, so if you’ve

already got a business plan you should think about

updating it now. If you’ve never written a business

plan, and are starting from scratch, the Business

Link website has lots of advice and information on

where to start.

Broadly speaking your business plan should

include:

• An outline of any changes you want to make

to your business

• Potential changes to your market, customers

and competition

• Your objectives and goals for the year

• Your Key Performance Indicators, for example

number of customers or details on stock cover

• Any issues or problems

• Any operational changes

• Information about your management and the

people involved

• Your financial performance and forecasts

• Details of investment in the business

You should keep your plan concise and focused – it

is a working document so there’s no point spending

a lot of time writing something very lengthy that

no-one is going to look at again.

Let’s talk figures

In this article we’re focusing on the financial side

of your plan, so let’s take a closer look at the figures

side of the business. You need to remember that

the financial forecasts you include in your business

plan are a representation in numbers of all the

other elements of the business plan, so you need

to write or update your business plan first before

tackling your financial planning.

A large element of financial planning is your

sales forecast, and the starting point for that are

last year’s sales figures. These will give you a good

idea of the sales you can expect for the coming year

and identify your peaks and troughs. You can also

analyse the volume of sales to help you get a clear

picture of stock that sells well and that which sits

on the shelf.

You then need to make some assumptions about

the coming year’s sales. Every year is different so

you need to think about the factors that could have

an impact on your business. These could be things

such as a new competitor moving into the area (or

a competitor closing down), or a reduction in the

volume of sales because of a general slowdown in

the retail sector.

You should also think about how you are going

to improve your position and maintain your

sales. You could consider whether to put up some

prices which, even if the volume of sales for those

products falls, would result in an increase in overall

revenue. You should look at stocking new ranges

and dropping ranges that haven’t continued to sell

well. Depending on your situation, you might even

think about looking for a new location which offers

cheaper rent or is in a better position for passing

trade, or developing online sales as well as selling

through your shop. Many of your assumptions will

be based on good judgement and a knowledge of

your customers and market, although you could

also do some market research.

“The most successful businesses

have made time to create and

manage budgets, as well as

regularly monitor finances and

performance.”

Once you’ve got all the facts and figures together

you can create a sales forecast that breaks down

your sales into monthly figures, including a

breakdown of different product ranges that you

sell. It’s important to avoid wishful thinking, so it’s

a good idea to look back at last year’s forecast and

see if your figures were realistic when compared

to your actual sales. You could also ask someone

to look at the forecast and challenge it – an

accountant, if you have one, or a senior sales person

in your business can give you another perspective.

Once you have your sales forecast you need to

look at all your outgoings to complete your cash

flow forecast. These include your running costs

such as rent, rates, insurance, staffing, heating,

lighting and the cost of stock as well as any

repayments on loans, bank charges and income

tax. Enter all the figures in the relevant month so

you can spot any times of the year when cash is

going to be tight. If you’re not sure how to create a

cash flow forecast the Business Link website has a

template you can download to assist this.

“You might be surprised at how

a small number of measures

can have an impact on your

profitability.”

The key point about having a good knowledge of

how your business is performing on a daily, weekly

and monthly basis is that you can start looking at

ideas for saving money and increasing your profits,

as well as responding quickly to any problems as

they come up – rather than being taken by surprise

when things don’t go according to plan.

Making savings

When looking around your business to see where

you can make savings, you might be surprised

at how a small number of measures can have

a surprising impact on your profitability. For

example, you could:

• Ask for extended credit terms with suppliers –

and negotiate the right deal with them

• Order less stock but more often

• Negotiate a returns policy with suppliers for

stock that doesn’t sell well

• Change your insurance or power suppliers

and accountants – don’t be afraid to ask for

discounts or a review of their charges

• Reduce any borrowing to minimise your bank

charges

• Change your bank account to one with lower

charges

• Look at leasing arrangements, rather than

buying any equipment you might need to

replace after a time

• Look at staffing arrangements and opening

hours to make sure you are paying staff for the

times that they are needed most

• Ask your staff for their ideas – they may well

think of things that haven’t occurred to you

Looking after the cash should not only improve

your profit margin, but will also give your business

direction and allow you to respond quickly to

market conditions.

My top tips for managing your business finances

and using them to improve your performance are:

• Understand your business intimately and

know where your sales and costs are coming

from

• Make sure you know what your break-even

point is and keep an eye on your ‘cushion’ of

cash, to ensure that you have enough money

in the bank to pay your staff and suppliers on

time

• Monitor the cash flow of your business on a

weekly or monthly basis. You shouldn’t wait

until the VAT returns or annual accounts. You

can use bookkeeping accounting software, or

spreadsheets – whatever works best for your

particular situation

• Be realistic about whether your costs are

covered by the sales you are forecasting,

and constantly adjust your forecasts to take

account of any external factors

• Don’t overbuy – you don’t want to be stuck

with stock that you can’t sell. Also, cutting

back on some ranges will free up money

to introduce new stock, keeping your shop

looking fresh

• Take seasonal trends into account – you will

have peaks and troughs throughout the year,

and you need to maintain a balance between

ordering your stock in time for busy periods

while avoiding having to pay suppliers when

cash is tight

In summary, to be successful you need to be clear

about where your business is going, and a good

business plan should be the framework which

sets out your vision and goals. It should be a

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living document that you update and change as

your business changes or grows, and getting the

financial planning right is a key part of making

your business plan work for you. Even if you only

intend to use your business plan internally, rather

than needing it for an external purpose such

as raising finance, it still pays to use the annual

planning process as an opportunity to take an

objective and honest look at your business. �

Further information

For more details and advice on business

planning or any other area of managing your

finances, visit the Business Link website at

www.businesslink.gov.uk or alternatively call on

+44 (0)845 600 9006.

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LONDON

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For trade enquiries and

catalogue please contact us

Showroom/warehouse,

131 Bethnal Green Rd,

London E2 7DG

T: 020 7739 7473

F: 020 7613 3516

E: sales@naturetrailuk.com

www.naturetrailbags.com

Fashion bags,

clutch bags,

shoes, belts

and purses

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Best Foot FORWARD

We take a look at all important boots

trends for autumn/winter 2010...

Th e trends for autumn/winter 2010 focus on texture

more so than in previous seasons, which must be a

welcome note for retailers who have had the mixed

blessing of selling statement footwear featuring

brilliant detailing such as multiple straps and studs

combined with towering heels that can intimidate more

conservative consumers. Th is season the shoe, or in

this case boot, is fi rmly on the other foot, as designers

recognised our need for cosy and comfortingly chic

styles that are easy to wear. Th is trend is perhaps a

refl ection of the psychological eff ects of the unsettling

economy, however, sales of boots were solid throughout

last year, and, thanks to the evolution of the shoeboot,

consumers have favoured boots even in a warmer

climate. Whether consumers favour comfy shearling,

versatile and darkly coloured boots, funky cropped styles

or designs in sophisticated shades, boots this season are

simply stylish. Read on to see a rundown of the best

boots trends...

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Versatile boots in deep tones are ideal for an urban lifestyle.

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1. J Shoes – Telephone +44 (0)1858 468 123 or access www.jshoes.com 2. Blowfi sh Malibu – Telephone +44 (0)208 421 7070 or access www.blowfi shshoes.com

3. Rocket Dog – Call +44 (0)208 207 7200 or visit www.rocketdog.co.uk 4. Ugly Duckling – Telephone +44 (0)7802 208 229 or visit www.uglyducklingshoes.com

5. Feud Britannia – Telephone +44 (0)208 421 7070 or access www.feudlondon.com 6. Irregular Choice – Call +44 (0)1273 722 520 or visit www.irregularchoice.com

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Muted shades and sleek designs are a sophisticated choice

1 & 2. Caprice – Call +44 (0)208 447 3956 or visit www.caprice.de 3. Bourne – Telephone +44 (0)1482 334 590 or visit www.bournecollection.com

4. Meanfeet – Call +44 (0)1924 491 411 5. Ugly Duckling – Telephone +44 (0)7802 208 229 or access www.uglyducklingshoes.com

6. Rocket Dog – Telephone +44 (0)208 207 7200 or access www.rocketdog.co.uk

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Cosy and cool, shearling

dominated the catwalk

1. WLM New Zealand – Call +44 (0)7985 121 593 or access www.wearlikeme.com 2. Rocket Dog – Call +44 (0)208 207 7200 or visit www.rocketdog.co.uk

3. Naturalizer – Call +44 (0)1604 593 600 or email admin@jacobsongroup.co.uk 4. Ugly Duckling – Call +44 (0)7802 208 229 or visit www.uglyducklingshoes.com

5. Rockport – Telephone +44 (0)1614 192 659 or access www.rockport.com 6. Lotus – Call +44 (0)1604 593 600 or email admin@jacobsongroup.co.uk

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1&2. Zandra Rhodes by Strutt Couture – Call +44 (0)207 127 2007 or visit www.struttcouture.com 3. Beyond Skin – Telephone +44 (0)845 373 3648 or visit

www.beyondskin.co.uk 4. Iron Fist – Telephone +44 (0)1202 571 571 or access www.jacksondistribution.com 5. Hispanitas – Telephone +34 629 535 589 or

access www.hispanitas.com 6. Rakish Heels – Telephone +44 (0)207 561 0380 or access www.rakish-heels.com

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Tough ankle length and

cropped boots remain

popular with consumers

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First Choice

Exciting brand Irregular Choice is well known for its quirky

designs and character, a calling card that has helped the

company reach its 10 th anniversary. Creator and designer

Dan Sullivan tells us about the foundations of the brand...

Originality is hard to fi nd as all too often

designers, brands and retailers seem to fall

into a trap of safe, commercial products

that will appeal to the broadest selection

of consumers possible. Th ankfully, there

is still a hoard of innovative young minds

in the fashion industry keen to challenge

the status quo, with a role model present

in the form of Dan Sullivan, creator and

designer of footwear and accessories brand

Irregular Choice.

‘Irregular’ really is the ideal word to

describe the brand, as even though Dan

could have simply followed in the footsteps

of his parents, who owned a store on the

King’s Road in the 1970s, he chose to strike

out on his own having been inspired by a

trip to see their shoe factory in Asia. “Th e

culture, architecture, foods – they were a big

infl uence for my fi rst collection and that’s

where I got the idea for the split toe shoe

which is still incorporated into my designs,” says Dan.

Th is early infl uence led Dan to spot a gap in the market for fun, imaginative

footwear and the Irregular Choice brand was launched in Brighton in 1999 to

introduce unique yet aff ordable designs into the market. Although this sounds

like a winning formula, the launch of the brand was not without its challenges,

as retailers had to show faith in the conspicuous designs, as Dan explains: “At

the time, footwear was very safe unless you were happy to pay hundreds of

pounds for something by a high-end designer. A lot of retailers were excited

since they’d never seen anything like it and my factory was able to produce

small orders so they could test out the product.”

Luckily, retailers’ confi dence in Irregular Choice grew once they saw how

successful the designs were in store, piquing consumers’ interest with colourful

Profile

and humorous creations. Since its inception the

brand’s designs have changed constantly, cleverly

recognising its target consumer’s need for fresh

product whilst maintaining the Irregular Choice

look. What started as a women’s

footwear brand now also takes

in designs for men

and babies, along

with girl’s clothing

and bags, and a new

line of sneakers with fl ashing lights in the soles called I.C.E.D - which stands

for Irregular Choice’s Ethereal Dream. Th is sense of ambition has driven the

brand to experience success in the US, where an Irregular Choice store opened

in New York in 2007. A fl agship store in Carnaby Street, London, followed

soon after and embodies the heart of the brand.

Future plans include more shops around the world, with a store in the

Irregular Choice home town of Brighton a particular priority. To celebrate a

decade of Irregular Choice, key styles from the brand are being re-released and

Dan has embarked upon a project to inspire a new generation of designers.

“I wanted to give something back to the fans and started a project with

Cordwainers at London College of Fashion. Th e students had to design a

shoe with Irregular Choice DNA and the winner will see their design being

produced in China and sold through the fl agship store on Carnaby Street later

this year,” he says. A

Further information

To fi nd out more telephone +44 (0)1273 722 520 or visit the website

www.irregularchoice.com

ATTIRE 49

SEX

AND THE

CITY

Rianna Fry showcases a range

of fabulous accessories to create

a window display inspired by the

release of Sex and the City 2…

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Bloomfield ring,

Designsix

+44 (0)208 766 7823

www.designsix.co.uk

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Mena shoe, Bourne

+44 (0)1482 334 590

www.bournecollection.com

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Vintage ivory open rose

corsage, Fox Jewellery

+44 (0)845 4650 400

www.rosiefox.com

Chunky platform, Feud London

+44 (0)208 421 7070

www.feudlondon.com

Manhattan bridge

canvas, £35.99,

Artylicious

I love NY necklace,

+44 (0)1274 421 410

£22.50, Lunacy

www.artylicious.co.uk

+44 (0)1639 895 735

www.lunacyboutique.co.uk

Vintage New York

traffic light, £165,

The Old Cinema

+44 (0)208 995 4166

www.theoldcinema.co.uk

Dot Martini glasses, £39 for set

of 4, The Pampered Chef

+44 (0)1344 823 600

www.pamperedchef.co.uk

Antique Heirloom earrings, Glitzy Secrets

+44 (0)208 303 7161

www.glitzysecrets.com

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Sateen shoe, Dune

+44 (0)207 535 8374

www.dune.co.uk

Monaco small handbag, Hempleman

+44 (0)1225 852 732

www.hempleman.co.uk

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Jenna shoe,

Strutt Couture

+44 (0)207 127 0007

www.struttcouture.com

o ooooo

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DOMINIQUE

LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES

o ooooo

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o oooooo o ooooo

info@dominiquebcl.com

01274 852276

Ladies Handbags Import/Wholesale:

Long & Son Trading Ltd

Unit 5 Ropewalk Gardens

12 Umberston Street

London

E1 1PY

Tel 020 7702 3888

Fax 020 7702 4999

Mob 078 8985 9680

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All images from Micam,

March 2010

'

Th ree seasons

As the spring/

summer season is

now well and truly

underway, off ering up

a cocktail of colourful

citrus tones in the

high street and the

trade exhibitions are

winding down for the

autumn/winter sales,

I thought it was time

to give an insight into

the overall feel from

Milan and Bologna.

Th ey say that a week is a long time in the fashion

industry and I have to agree, not only in respect

of the pace of change but also in the huge scope

of possibilities and the broad array of creativity on

show. In only one week, from Abruzzo to Milano

and onto Bologna, your mind explodes with

satisfaction, excitement and fear. Satisfaction that

your creativity is on the high street, ready for spring/

summer. Excitement at the prospect of having

created a collection in colours that are in tune with

the market for autumn/winter, and the fear that

you may have got it almost right for the next year’s

spring/summer season.

Expert report

' '

in one week

Alan Newberry, leather accessories project expert, continues his

series in which he provides an expert insight into the European

fashion accessories market...

Th e Milan exhibitions Micam, Mipel and Mifur

have been in existence for coming up 50 years,

a wonderful achievement in today’s commercial

marketplace. Recognised globally as a must visit for

any serious buyer, agent, distributor or stylist, this

year the events saw the biggest attendance ever, both

from exhibitors and visitors. Following on from the

juicy citrus colours that are already out there, the

exhibiting brands off ered up a strange yet wonderful

mix of strong, warm oranges, purples and pinks,

with alternative pelle shades in beige, fl esh tones and

earthy tan colour ways.

Less than a week later, Linea Pelle in its

homestead Bologna is host to the bi-annual

materials exhibition with major brand stylists and

producers of high fashion leather accessories and

footwear in attendance to get a feel for what should

hit the stores a year from now. As far as colours

go it seems that a return to pastels was the order

of the day, or should I say days, of the show. Now,

when I say pastel shades, I don’t only mean certain

groups of colour. In fact, the colour spectrum was

broad, from lilac to blue, orange to green and from

yellow to pink, but all with one thing in common

- a prominent white base, giving an almost washed

colour eff ect. So, strong colours seem to be giving

way to more subtle shades next year.

ATTIRE 53

�

As for the leathers of the moment, three stand out

as future high street favourites. Sumptuous, soft calf

is still going strong, with the luxury look of opaque,

flat stamped croc everywhere. My choice is the

striking, silky finish of sting ray leather, which does

��

not use the pastel tones of the other materials, but is

still beautifully vibrant and chic.

The fact that many of the brands on show

absorbed the seasonal style in respect of colour

does not mean that anything is ever set in stone,

however, there has to be a trend in the market for

the fashionistas. I have to say, in recent years the

colour mix on the high street has been as diverse as

big city life itself. This is to satisfy the tastes of those

that only ‘do’ black as well as the daring wearers of

red through to the dedicated followers of fashion

who will not be seen in the wrong seasonal shade.

Basically, in terms of colour, you can find it all,

however, varied styles are a different matter.

Shapes and materials are key to a brand’s

success on the continent. Big brand stylists have

to be ahead of the game, as they have to provide

something different, or at least a twist on a 20

year old style. For example, the Gianmarco

Lorenzi footwear stylist, Marco, offered

up his creations with the ladies’ ‘sandwich

platform’ three seasons ago, when

nobody else had the courage

to do the same at

that time. Next

season, many

� �

brands will follow suit with the same sandwich

platform and you will see it in every town and city,

not just in Monaco or Portofino.

So, to shock creatively, in the nicest possible way is

the job of the top brands, however, if you are too far

ahead your styling may not be appreciated because

the consumer is just not ready for it. Independent,

cult stylist Jim Daniels developed a collection of

denim jeans four years ago with a wonderful mix

of leather detail for a brand called Rotten, but his

brilliant, small collection only saw daylight across

Italy. Two seasons ago, super brand D&G brought

the same concept to the market place with more

fortunate timing and suddenly it was a huge success.

The real lesson that you, the buyer, should take

from this is that if you want to be effective in a

choice of articles that will move commercially, you

may be better off to mix the selection up with a

cocktail of both safe and slightly different designs.

Look for brands with something a little bit different

but still with that sensible edge that won’t shock the

consumer. The average client wants to be fashionable

but does not want to feel like Lady GaGa at the

country fair, rather they want to feel like Katherine

Jenkins at Ascot, stylishly chic, being subtly on trend

without completely embodying it. �

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Handcrafted in a workshop by the sea, this amazing

jewellery features semi-precious stones and sterling

silver combined in a variety of unusual, contemporary

designs that will amaze and delight.

Visit us at Pulse stand R45

ALPHA MALE

It’s a man’s world in jewellery trends this season, with slick fi nishes and

subtle, urban detailing dominating the market. Read on to fi nd out more...

Nomination

Th e autumn/winter season for 2010 can be said

to be the best suited to traditional men’s jewellery

styling than ever before, with sleek and simple

lines paired with subtle shades for an understated

and quietly commanding look. Th is aesthetic was

obviously a winning formula for catwalk designers

from Burberry Prorsum to Celine whose widely

praised collections clearly tapped into classic

menswear styling. Moody colours including khaki,

camel and dark brown are perfect for establishing

an off ering of military-inspired, relaxed and easy-to

-wear jewellery that often features plaited leather.

Male consumers in search of more sophisticated

designs are still well catered for with an excellent

selection of steel, titanium and sterling silver

creations for a strong and elegant appearance.

Read on for our pick of the best new men’s

jewellery lines...

Genuine calfskin, pure titanium and unmistakable

design characterise the new Boccia Titanium

bracelets, which combine interesting shapes with

high-class materials to achieve sophisticated design

and value for money. Th e brand’s wide selection

allows the fashion-conscious man to emphasise

individual style with bracelets made of artistically

plaited brown or black leather with decorative

titanium trim. Th e bracelets are skin friendly and

also come with a sturdy clasp. Other innovative

jewellery products from Boccia feature supple

leather and pure titanium, which is enhanced with

a polished, satinised or rose gold plated fi nish. Visit

www.boccia-titanium.co.uk for further details.

Nomination has recently launched the Portofi no

collection, a refi ned selection of bracelets

inspired by the energy of the glamorous Italian

Riviera. Sporty enough for sailing, cool enough

for cocktails, yet elegant for evening, the new

collection combines nautical chic with classic

style to create an off ering that is modern and

�

sophisticated. Made in Italy using the fi nest quality

materials, the Portofi no collection comprises a

wide selection of twisted stainless steel bracelets

available in black and coloured stainless steel,

highlighted with full-cut natural diamonds

and nautical fl ags, in coloured enamel. Access

www.nomination.com for more information.

Th e darker side of Dower & Hall is showcased

in the popular brand’s much anticipated men’s

jewellery collection, Black Label. While still in

keeping with Dower & Hall’s signature style of

sculptural, curved forms and engraved detailing,

Black Label gives a nod to gothic and urban edge

with this new playful collection. Chunky bracelets,

pendants, hammered rings and stylish cuffl inks

incorporate oxidised silver with fun emblems such

as skulls and wings, rose tattoo symbols and shields

stamped with lions and unicorns. Prices start from

£85 and more information is available from the

brand’s website www.dowerandhall.com

Th is season male consumers can bring out their

wild side with the Gator collection from leading

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Boccia titanium

British brand Storm. Th e new Gator collection is

edgy and unique, including a pendant and bracelet

that feature an alligator eff ect tag attached to a

trendy leather cord. Th e pendant from the Gator

collection is a perfect accompaniment to add

attitude to a smart shirt, whilst the bracelet also has

unisex appeal. Th e cool Gator pendant is available

in black and brown, whilst the bracelet comes in

turquoise, black, brown and yellow, as does the

funky cuff in the collection, with each item having

an rrp of £49.99. To fi nd out more access the

website www.stormwatches.com

Storm

Dower & Hall

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�

Stephen Webster

An extension of the acclaimed London Calling

men’s jewellery collection, celebrated British

designer Stephen Webster has launched the ‘Tokyo

Calling’ collection. Once again infl uenced by the

unique make-up of an exhilarating city steeped

in tradition, Webster has focused on the intricate

details found in traditional Japanese engravings

and the combination of gold and black used in

antique lacquerwork. Rhodium plated pieces with

rose gold studwork and black sapphires create a

masculine edge which can be seen across signet

rings, stacking rings, leather wrap bracelets, dog

tags and cross pendants. For more information visit

www.stephenwebster.com

Mixing the modern and classic, the Dyrberg/

Kern men’s jewellery collection adds personality

and confi dence to any look. Th e khaki and army

colours in this season’s collection are sure to be

��

Dyrberg/Kern

�

popular, with braided matt leather bracelets, hardcore

stitching on straps and leather, one chain

with two lengths, and cut-out cross pendants. Add

that to cuffl inks in black titanium metal, a duotoned

tactile wristband, innovative closures and

magnetic clasps, an incredibly cool approach to the

camoufl age trend of the season is easily achieved.

Access www.dyrbergkern.com for further details.

Tateossian is full of surprises this season with the

successful brand’s new Real Dice cuffl inks. Th e

surprise twist of the design is that the dice can be

removed from the cuffl inks whilst the shirt cuff

remains unspoilt, so the wearer can just unscrew

the piece and roll the dice. Tateossian continues

the excitement with the new Gear cuffl inks, which

Gecko Jewellery

feature the exposed intricate cogs of a watch to

combine motion with a unique fashion-forward

edge. Th e 20 year celebration of the Tateossian

brand brings with it some reinventions to its true

classics, such as the new skeleton Globe cuffl ink

which is a fresh take on the best-selling design,

recreating a replica of a real standing world map

spinning eff ortlessly on its axis. Visit the website

www.tateossian.com to fi nd out more.

Th e success of the appealing Fred Bennett brand

across the UK is largely due to the diversity

of product in the range, available from Gecko

Jewellery. Over the years the popularity of the

brand was once centred on the major cities, but is

now extending to the smaller towns and suburbs.

Fred Bennett not only wins favour with 30-to-

45 year-old male consumers, but has also now

acquired a younger audience with 19-to-30 yearold

men buying in to the on-trend leather styles

and steel designs. Th e brand’s best-selling item is

wrist wear, in particular leather items with textured,

tumbled and stone set metal beads or tiger’s eye

and onyx, whilst necklaces have also sold well in

matching, mixed material styles. To fi nd out more

access www.geckojewellery.com

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Est 70 years

Volume Fashion Jewellery - “That Sells”

ATel: 020 8766 6466

www.alexanderthurlow.com

Unit 4, 1-7 Ernest Avenue, London SE27 0DQ

Ceannis A/W Heritage Collection inspired by our New respect for the

environment, returning to the traditional ways of travelling and exploring the

world. It offers beautiful Bags and lifestyle Accessories in soft lambskins, recycled

leathers and exciting textiles, linens canvas and printed velvets complimented by

functional design details with extra pockets for mobile phones and key holders.

The Ceannis Brand is well established in Sweden/Europe and continues to

develop a strong and solid relationship with existing and New customers

here in the UK. Working with High profile Fashion Brands to the

Independent Boutique and gift shops.

A/W 2010 Collection is now available to view either in Sweden or in our

Richmond Showroom.

Also showing at Pulse June 2010 stand N60

For further information

Please contact Vanil UK agent

Mandy 07702 877081

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Unique Jewelry

Unique Jewelry is an innovative company that

off ers modern, design-led jewellery and is

particularly known for using materials such as

stainless steel, titanium and tungsten, which

are featured in the company’s successful men’s

jewellery collection. Th e men’s collection uses

braided leather in combination with stainless

steel elements to create a masculine and trendy

look. Tungsten carbide is one of the most scratch

resistant metals and its strength and durability

makes it an excellent material for men’s jewellery in

combination with black IP plating, which creates

an interesting contrast of black and white. Access

www.uniquejewelry.co.uk for further details.

Chrono UK Limited

�

A stunning ensemble of a cool bangle, pendant

and matching ring comes from the JWman

collection, available from long established

company Goldmajor. Made from steel with a

sophisticated coff ee coloured inlay and a white

CZ, this slick range has a smart aesthetic that is

ideal for special occasions. Th e JWman collection

combines traditional masculinity with an added

sparkle to present a perfect trio of products that

would appeal to the style of fashionable men such

as David Beckham and Lewis Hamilton. Th e

desirable pendant and bracelet each have an rrp of

£45, whilst the ring has an rrp of £24. For more

information visit the website www.goldmajor.com

Handmade British jewellery is now available

from Chrono UK Limited. Having partnered

with a British manufacturer that has a century’s

experience of working with precious metals,

including 9ct, 14ct and 18ct yellow and white gold

together with platinum, Chrono UK Limited is

now able to off er an exceptional collection of fi ne

jewellery. Since all of the products are handmade

the company can design, extend, or shorten any

existing designs whilst its custom service means

that it can manufacture any item to match an

existing piece of jewellery, specialising in chains

and bracelets. Telephone +44 (0)844 815 4840 for

more information.

Th e wild spirit of adventure has inspired the Rebel

at Heart collection from Th omas Sabo. Bulls,

skulls and scorpions sit alongside masculine icons

such as motorcycles to achieve an off beat aesthetic

that is sure to resonate with the on-trend Th omas

Sabo fan. Th e commercial collection takes in funky

items such as a bull skull pendant in 925 sterling

silver with eye-catching black zirconia pave, as

well as a chunky ring with striking reconstructed

��

Goldmajor

turquoise in 925 sterling silver that has a hint of

native American styling. Visit the brand’s website

www.thomassabo.com for further details. �

Th omas Sabo

��

Spreading the word

Sangeeta Laudus of The Little PR & Marketing Co offers her

tips on how you can do your own PR, and best manage your

relationship with the media

Small businesses can be

tempted to think that PR

is for the big boys (and

girls) and that if they don’t

have the budget to get a

PR agency involved then

it’s not something for

them. But raising your PR

profile should be part and

parcel of every business

and is a tool which should, and can, be used

alongside other forms of promotion.

PR is essentially managing the way you

communicate with the media in the hope that you

will get third parties (journalists) to spread your

message for you. Unlike advertising, this message

is not paid for, and therefore you have less control

in the way it is communicated. However, the power

of a positive third party endorsement can give your

business a significant boost.

There are many types of PR services available

nowadays, therefore it is not something that needs

to be beyond the reach of a small business – but

PR is also something that you can start to do

yourself, and even a little PR can go a long way.

��

Firstly, you need to decide which would be the

most relevant publications for your business,

and then compile a list of all contact details of

the journalists on them. Yes, this can be timeconsuming,

but once you have your list you will use

it again and again and so the initial effort definitely

pays off. I would suggest for the fashion industry,

all the main consumer and trade magazines

(including regional editions) should be on your

list, however don’t forget the online versions of

these magazines which more than likely will have

a different editor in charge. Don’t forget to also

target fashion blogs, as these have an increasingly

large following.

Next, I would suggest you draft a short press

release (no more than two pages and checked for

grammar and spelling) about your latest collection

or any other news, and send it by email to the

journalists on your list. Hopefully this will attract

the attention of a few key publications, and they

will contact you if they need further information

or images.

There are mixed opinions amongst PRs

(and journalists!) whether you should call the

magazines to check they received your release

– true, the releases can get missed in busy inboxes

and by calling you are able to bring your

release to their attention. However, on the whole

people will get back to you (and very quickly)

if they are interested. I personally am not keen

on calling unless I have built a relationship with

that publication or particular journalist. Try to

remember that journalists are very busy, and the

last thing you want to do is become a nuisance. If

you do call, always ask the journalist if they are on

deadline before launching into conversation.

I would aim to send a press release out every

month if you have something newsworthy to let

people know about, otherwise every couple of

months is still a good way to begin. Your news

should be authentic (never lie or engage in spin)

and you should always be able to deliver on the

services or products you offer. Another tip would

be to let the publications know in your press

release if you are happy to lend products for photo

shoots, whether you have high resolution images

available, and even if you are willing to offer prizes

in competitions. The more helpful and flexible you

can be, the better!

As time goes on you will hopefully start to

cultivate a relationship with your own ‘A’ list

(the publications that have used your material

and whom you enjoy working with), and the

journalists will know to contact you if they are

looking for a particular item or story. But, as with

all relationships, these things take time so don’t

be disappointed if your first few attempts don’t

pay off immediately. Be polite, prompt with the

information you are asked for, and remember

that journalists do need to fill their pages with

interesting new information, so it could just as

likely be your business they end up featuring. In

PR, as with most things in life, consistency and

perseverance are the name of the game. �

Further information

To find out more about The Little PR &

Marketing Co, visit www.littleprmarketing.com,

call Sangeeta on +44 (0)7984 486 957, or email

sangeeta@littleprmarketing.com.

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hazel atkinson jewellery

‘Heaven And Earth Collection’

www.hazelatkinsonjewellery.co.uk

Tel: 0115 9586183

Jewellery company

Dower & Hall may

now be a strong,

recognisable brand

with designs stocked

in the likes of iconic

retailer Liberty, but

20 years ago the story of partners in marriage and

business Dan Dower and Diane Hall began very

diff erently indeed, with the assistance of a prince

integral to their success.

Dan and Diane met at university whilst

studying jewellery design and saw a gap in the

market for contemporary accessories for style

conscious women, with a focus on handcrafted,

unique and well made products. Establishing

a jewellery business such as this would be an

ambitious goal at any time, however, it was a

particularly challenging task for Dan and Diane

some 20 years ago. In search of support, the

partners turned to the charity, Th e Prince’s Trust. “I

still remember our fi rst major challenge, delivering

our business proposal to Th e Prince’s Trust. We

desperately needed a business loan to get started,

as even fax machines were notoriously expensive to

rent 20 years ago and this was vital to a wholesaler.

Banks had incredibly high rates for new businesses

back then. Being accepted for the loan not only

gave us the cash we needed, but it gave us a

tremendous amount of confi dence in our business

plan and aims,” explains Diane.

Th is initial backing from Th e Prince’s Trust

enabled Dan and Diane to set up a studio in

Holborn, tirelessly making bold costume jewellery

around the clock by heating acrylic perspex mirror

and fashioning it into statement jewellery. Prior to

showing at London Fashion Week, Dower & Hall

received crucial press coverage which was spotted

by a buyer at Harvey Nichols who went on to place

a big order for the store, whilst Liberty was also

an early supporter of the duo’s designs, helping to

raise their profi le immensely. Th e style of the brand

naturally progressed with designs in silver and 18ct

gold to fi t Dan and Diane’s philosophy of creating

easy to wear favourites that could become long

treasured pieces.

Th e couple have maintained their initial roles

in the company, adhering to the formula that

has proven successful for the business. “Dan and

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The Prince

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As successful jewellery brand Dower & Hall celebrates its 20 th anniversary,

one half of the eponymous duo, founder and creative director Diane Hall,

tells us about the business...

I still work in the same way as when we started.

Dan carves or hammers new designs in solid

silver and I love to spend hours sketching new

designs or selecting the perfect jewels and pearls

- what girl wouldn’t?!” says Diane. Th e aesthetic

of Dower & Hall is a balance between two main

themes, sculptural curved forms and a feminine

accent, as is evident from the brand’s popular new

Spiral collection. “Our latest Spiral collection

features vintage style designs, with handcarved

detailing applied to open work spheres. It’s a

playful collection mixed with pretty pearls that

move about. Pearlicious and Nomad designs also

continue to be popular with retailers and customers

alike,” says Diane.

In celebration of its signifi cant 20 th anniversary,

Dower & Hall will be introducing special designs

in the Spiral collection over the coming months,

with parties and promotions scheduled throughout

the year whilst a special collaboration is also in the

works. In the midst of these events, the brand is

actively looking for ways to grow the business and

is in search of the best retail outlets to showcase

Dower & Hall in key locations. �

Further information

To fi nd out more call +44 (0)207 377 5544 or

visit www.dowerandhall.com

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Choosing a website designer

��

Five essential things to know so you get it right first time

Are you looking to start a new website or refresh your online offering? If so the most

common questions are; “How do I select the right website design company?” and

“where do I start?” Expert David Mackley advises…

Everyone seems to know a website designer but how

do you know if they are right to develop your website

particularly if you are going to sell online? I have

seen retailers spend many thousands of pounds on

below standard websites that will always struggle to

produce a payback on the time and money put into

them. So, here are some essential points to consider,

to help you make the right choice first time.

1. Find the right team

There are several essential roles in website design.

Understanding these will help you find a good

company. If web design is new to you, it can help to

think of it like a car. Here is what to look for:

Firstly you have the marketer. This person will

want to understand who the target market is. With

this in mind they will pull together a design brief to

make the car a perfect fit for the type of people who

will buy it. How should it look? How fast should it

go? How firm should the ride be? This design

brief will be focussed around the desires of the

target market.

Secondly you have the bodywork designers who

will have an education in art. They will design the

look based on the brief from the marketer. If this

is done well, the end result will appeal to the target

market whether it is a spacious people carrier, funky

beetle or a sporty Ferrari.

Third you have the engineers. They design the

engine and the chassis and give the car its handling

and performance. Engineers have analytical minds, a

technical education and are good at problem solving.

If the engineers do their jobs correctly, the car will be

a pleasure to drive.

Each role in this team requires a different type

of person. Any weaknesses or gaps in the team will

produce a weaker end product. When you have a

website developed, the same three roles are essential.

Here’s why:

The first stage of a website design should start

with a discussion with the marketer. They should

be asking questions to really understand what your

website should look like and what its objectives are.

For example: “Who are you planning to sell to?”,

“What brand values do you want to portray?” The

marketer will then create a design brief to make your

website fit the market you are selling to, just like they

would with a car.

The second stage is with the arty designers.

They will create a flat design, i.e. a picture of your

website. You will get to review this and should feel

comfortable to go back with any changes required.

The third stage is with the engineers. They will

cut your website design out from the flat image and

engineer it into a shopping engine. The shopping

engine is the bit that creates your shopping basket

when you add a new item and it’s the payment and

checkout facility. It’s the bit that will notify you

when you get a sale. Most web design companies

have their own favourite shopping engine or they

will have created their own.

So the engineers will take your flat design and turn it

into an eCommerce website by implementing it into

the shopping engine.

TIP: Establish who the person is for each of these

roles and find out how you interact with them

during the design.

TIP: Get three reference sites and talk to them

about their experience. Key questions: Who was

involved in your website design? How efficient

was the design process? What is the percentage of

visitors against purchases (conversion rate)? Would

you recommend this company?

2. Make sure you are happy with the shopping

engine that will be used

It’s essential you are happy with the shopping engine

the company uses because there will usually be

limitations on how much it can be changed. Having

said that, anything can be done with enough money,

but changing a shopping engine is a costly business!

If the shopping engine is old and clunky it will

significantly impact on how many sales you make.

The worldwide average for converting online

browsers to buyers is just over two per cent (this does

differ between markets). An older shopping engine

can move this down to one per cent, which means

cutting your revenue by more than half.

TIP: If you want value for money you’d be better

off finding something close to your requirements

out of the box. Developing shopping engines is an

expensive business. Have a look at other websites

the company has developed and buy something.

Try comparing the experience to one or two of the

large successful sites like Marks and Spencer who

recently moved to first place in offering the best user

experience of UK high street retailers (according to

research from usability company Webcredible). This

research showed their updated site scored 83 per

cent for usability, an increase of 15 per cent from the

previous test.

This is now joint first with WH Smith who kept

the same score as last year. John Lewis came in third.

These sites are not perfect, but can act as a good

benchmark. (Note: The criteria used to evaluate the

websites takes into account the complete ecommerce

experience, including browsing and navigation,

the checkout process, searching and product

display pages.)

TIP: Check that the shopping engine will be

updated and if charges will apply. There is nothing

worse than having a website created only for the

shopping engine to be out of date in

12 months.

“There are several essential

roles in website design.

Understanding these will help

you find a good company.”

Internet shopping in the UK is still a growth area.

According to the voice of e-retail IMRG, growth

was 21 per cent in 2009, about 10 times that in the

high street. The internet has become just a part of

everyday life now for so many people. According

to Forrester 28 million UK consumers use internet

shopping now, and this will grow considerably to

36 million by 2014.

3. What forms of payment can be used?

Check what forms of payment can be accepted. It

is likely the web company will work with selected

providers. Popular ones are PayPal, SagePay,

HSBC and the emerging Google Checkout.

I would suggest having one method of taking

cards such as SagePay or a bank like HSBC, then

add in the option to take payments from PayPal

accounts because many people find using PayPal

so convenient and have money sitting in their

accounts that they use on shopping.

TIP. Google Checkout has not yet reached the

popularity of PayPal so don’t get too precious over

this. But it is worth keeping an eye on it.

4. How do you keep it up to date?

This is essential to consider. Once the website goes

live, how do you add items on to your website?

How do you manage stock? It is very easy to

underestimate how long it takes to update products

on the website and before long the products are out

of date or have no pictures or the prices are wrong.

Be aware that having a separate website to your

shop is just like running separate businesses. The

web company you choose should talk you through

how you add and update items.

“Be aware that having a

separate website to your shop

is just like running separate

businesses.”

“If you have a shop, consider a

multichannel system, rather than

just standalone websites...

It makes managing both

the shop and website much

more efficient.”

TIP: Check if there are limitations on the number

of products you can upload.

Ask the company how you would manage images.

A website will need several sizes of image for any

one product. A good system will take any size

image you throw at it and create the different

sizes needed for the website. This will save many

hours of your time. Also ask whether you can have

‘zoomable’ images. These make a difference to how

many people will end up buying from you because

they can then easily zoom in to look at an item

and really see the important detail of the materials,

texture and finishing.

Stock control is another classic problem.

Retailers run on small quantities of stock. When

the last item is sold in the shop, who will tell the

website that the product is now out of stock?

TIP: If you have a shop, consider a multichannel

system, rather than just standalone websites.

Multichannel systems let you put products and

images on once for your shop and your website.

These all run from a single stock system. It makes

managing both the shop and website much more

efficient, and it can crucially make the difference

between success and failure for an independent

retailer’s website.

5. How will the website perform in search

engines?

Marketing your website is a big topic, however, it

��

starts with choosing the right shopping engine. A

good shopping engine will automatically format

your product pages in such a way that the search

engines like Google can easily read them. If this

happens, they are more likely to get good rankings

in the search results.

TIP: There is a simple way to check this without

having to know any technical details.

All you do is go to one of the reference sites from

the web design company. Select one item they

are selling at random and highlight its name.

Then copy and paste the name into Google. Now

see where that item is ranked. This is not an

exact science so repeat for five randomly selected

products. Are they appearing reasonably high up

in the rankings? Are other companies higher in

the rankings for that same product name? Don’t

expect it to always be on page one. As a broad rule

of thumb, two or three of the items should appear

in the first few pages. Try it with a second website

as well. If you are not satisfied, talk to the web

company about it before proceeding. �

David Mackley MBA BSc is MD of Intelligent

Retail: Award Winning Multichannel Retail

Systems. If you have any questions please

contact David on dmackley@intelligentretailco.uk

or call +44 (0)845 680 0126

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Cocowai’s beautiful collection

of handwoven cashmere

shawls and knitwear is

designed in the UK and made

in Nepal to the highest ethical

standards. After more than a

decade of evolving experience,

we have an unrivalled

reputation for quality and

an expansive colour range,

underpinned by a strong belief

in an equal service to both

large and small retailers.

��

email: frankie@cocowai.co.uk

tel/fax: 01202 701 888

mob: 07887 645 445

Cliff Studio, 32A Cliff Drive,

Poole, Dorset, BH13 7JG

live at last visit us on

www.cocowai.com

Corder London

The autumn/winter season for 2009/10 was more

memorable than usual for the hats, gloves and

scarves market, not just because of some brilliant

trends, but more seriously thanks to a bout of

extremely cold and at times treacherous weather

conditions that saw much of the UK, Europe and

indeed the rest of the world under a heavy blanket

of snow and ice. This severe climate meant that the

cold weather lasted for longer than we are used

to in the UK, boosting the demand for a wide

selection of warm hats, gloves and scarves from

both a practical and fashionable point of view

when the ice gradually thawed out.

It is with this in mind that stock levels should

be considered for autumn/winter 2010, alongside

the need for a good variety of styles to satisfy

trend aware consumers. In addition to offering

thick, woolly collections in eye-catching prints

and colours, retailers should also look out for

more subtle designs with interesting detailing

suitable for outer wear or as evening accessories to

command the attention of consumers. Read on to

see a selection of the best hats, scarves and gloves

on the market...

Corder London’s exciting new range of super soft

leather gloves for autumn/winter 2010 is now

available to order online. Offering an extensive

range of high fashion, classic and retro styles, the

brand’s beautiful collection successfully meets the

demands of a wide range of consumers. The new

We take a look at stylish

hats, gloves and scarves

collections for autumn/

winter 2010...

Hats, Gloves & Scarves

Cosy Up

Cocowai

collection introduces prints and metallic on leather,

whilst the more striking colours such as dewberry,

hot coral and new pink nappa are set to heat up

the winter months. Corder London gloves are

already sold in independent boutiques worldwide

and are rapidly becoming an essential fashion

accessory. Telephone +44 (0)207 739 9795 for

more information.

Frances Macaulay started cashmere company

Cocowai in 1997, after many years living and

working in Nepal. Cocowai offers a range of

products in over 200 colours in a wide variety of

different weaves, knits and styles. The luxurious

products are hand woven using only the highest

quality cashmere and silk, whilst quality control

is undertaken at the factory in Kathmandu by

people who fully understand the importance of

consistency in the product. Frances has worked

hard to develop strictly ethical trading standards,

ensuring an improved standard of living for all

involved in the company, which provides an

exemplary service to all its customers in the UK

and abroad. Visit the website www.cocowai.co.uk

for further details.

Launched in 2005, the Jane Carr collection is

dedicated to creating hand-finished luxury

accessories, as is evident in the new Sweet Victory

glove line for autumn/winter 2010/11. The range

features the finest, butter soft nappa leathers and

Jane Carr

ATTIRE 69 69 �

Jacqueline Headlam

suedes, along with 100% cashmere or 100% silk

linings, all handstitched in Italy. The gorgeous

designs are showcased in a rich yet subtle colour

palette of cabaret, pony, alpine, ballerina, squadron,

rouge, onyx and slate. The collection features key

styles including the Ruched glove design, ideal

for adding a splash of colour on a dull day with

butter soft, ruched leather to mid forearm. True

to the Jane Carr commitment to distinct design,

this season’s scarf collection takes inspiration

from the abandonment of Paris during WW1,

with military insignia and camouflage mixed with

showgirl detailing influenced by the finest jewellery

of Place Vendôme. Emblazoned with honorary

medals, feathers and scattered gems, emblems

glisten with metallic foil showcased in a vivid

colour palette of cabaret, mink, chestnut, rouge

and amethyst. Telephone +44 (0)207 387 4337 for

more information.

The luxurious winter or ski hats from Jacqueline

Headlam are fast becoming the talented designer’s

best selling products. The glamorous hats have

been as popular with customers here in the UK

experiencing ‘Siberian’ winters as those travelling

to the fashionable ski resorts of Europe. As well

as being extremely warm and practical, each

handmade hat is an impressive creation both inside

and out. Made from a selection of metallic and

plain leathers, each hat is finished to an impeccable

standard and trimmed with on trend, vintage fox

furs. The hats are finished and authenticated with

an engraved sovereign size adjuster stamped with

the words Jacqueline Headlam Limited Edition.

Access the website www.jacquelineheadlam.com

for more information.

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York Scarves

York Scarves brings retailers a colourful, diverse

range of fairly traded, quality fashion scarves at

sensible prices, direct from a North India based

co-op. The company is based in North Yorkshire

and is a young but rapidly growing family business

offering excellent service. There is no minimum

order and a comprehensive website for simple

shopping, plus deliveries are generally dispatched

within 24 hours for overnight delivery. As well as

carrying substantial stocks locally, York Scarves has

a custom manufacturing service for clients wishing

to develop their own range, with a reasonable

minimum order quantity of 100 units per colour.

To find out more visit www.yorkscarves.co.uk

Boardman Brothers has recently launched its

autumn/winter 2010 range, which is inspired by

the latest fashion trends and promises exciting

and stylish accessories to suit every occasion.

Animal prints and fur are a key trend for the

winter months this year and Boardman’s has wisely

incorporated these trends into its new range using

a great variety of fabrics, colours and prints. This

season has also seen the brand’s reintroduction of

large wraps to be worn instead of jackets, angora

blend yarns and pretty hand crochet styles. For

more information telephone +44 (0)1618 322 381.

The autumn/winter 2010 collection from Pia

Rossini introduces four stunning colour stories.

The new Chic story includes a beautiful, subtle

colour palette of lavenders and silver greys, whilst

Fashion is a selection of on-trend, textured brights.

The sophisticated Nudes is made up of rich,

sumptuous cappuccino and neutral tones, whereas

the Classic story features timeless reds, browns and

Pia Rossini

Boardman Brothers

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Lowie

black. Offering hats, scarves, gloves and bags, all

effortless to merchandise, Pia Rossini has an ideal

range of accessories at competitive prices for next

season and is consistently a favourite across the UK

and Europe. Access www.trade.piarossini.com for

further details.

Axis srl, owned by Carlo Forti, is based in Le

Marche, the traditional hat-making centre of Italy.

Carlo Forti has 20 years experience manufacturing

hats for Italian designer brands such as Dolce

& Gabbana, Armani, Diesel, Etro and Furla. In

2003, Axis began working with Paul Smith Ltd

in London and now makes over 12,000 men’s and

ladies’ hats per annum using specially selected Paul

Smith fabrics. During this period Axis has also

become a major hat supplier to Alfred Dunhill,

Hackett, Pringle of Scotland, Fred Perry, John

Lewis and Jigsaw. Axis has been represented by

Lidia Festa of Italia Accessories for seven years.

Telephone +44 (0)1628 540 937 for further details.

Ethically minded brand Lowie produces

hand-knitted accessories and clothing in small

workshops and homes on China’s east coast.

Designer Bronwyn Lowenthal visits twice a year to

collaborate with skilled workers who use traditional

production techniques including hand knitting,

hand crochet, and hand looming in every piece. The

brand focuses on small production runs to keep

every range special and Lowie is loved by stylish

celebrities including Fearne Cotton and Lily Cole.

Inspired by a vintage mitten from the 1950s found

at a charity shop, the Merino Nordic vintage range

from Lowie includes a gorgeous triangular shawl

with tassels and soft top earmuffs, which are lined

with 100% wool felt and can be tied under the chin

or behind the ear as a hair accessory. Using top

quality, soft Australian merino yarn and knitted

Dents

using traditional needle techniques, Nordic vintage

uses colours of the moment, including dark blues

and paprika orange. Call +44 (0)207 737 3310 for

further details.

SSP Hats Ltd has over 20 years experience in the

hat trade and prides itself on excellent customer

service and next day delivery. The company has a

wide range of ladies’, men’s and children’s winter

hats and accessories, so whether retailers are in

search of high fashion trilbys, trendy beanies

or warm Thinsulate items, it can all be found

with SSP Hats. There are many new lines in the

company’s winter 2010 range, including a very

large selection of fur trapper hats, along with new

styles of Peruvian hats. SSP Hats has a 62 page full

colour catalogue available on request with a low

minimum order. Visit the website www.ssphats.net

to find out more.

The autumn/winter 2010 collection from Dents

features a stunning range of new themes and

vibrant styling. Easy luxury, French polish,

Norwegian wood and glam rock are the four

main themes of the collection, which includes

an inspirational mix of glorious leathers, soft

knits, sophisticated faux furs and a wide range of

beautiful fabrics lifted with plush velvets, mohair

and worsteds, soft chenilles, frothy lace and crystal

organzas. Animal prints, lacquered materials,

double satins and add-on design features are all

highlights of the collection, which is bursting with

new colours. Dents has introduced subtle changes

to traditional shades of damson, pewter, ink, fennel,

mocca and gentle earth tones for winter, whilst

touches of sherbert, hot pink and soft candy light

up the range. Look out for gold layering, studding

and embellishments to complement the designs.

Call +44 (0)1985 212 291 to find out more. A

Hats, Gloves & Scarves

Axis srl

SSP Hats Ltd

ATTIRE 73

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ALL THE ANSWERS

Our experts tackle some of your retail-related queries...

David Braithwaite has been advising both corporate and individual clients

for over 15 years. His extensive knowledge has earned constant recognition in

the press, national radio and television, who often seek opinion and rely on his

company to provide them with expert market comment and opinion. Citrus

Financial Management is a firm of financial advisers based in Kent. For details

call +44 (0)1732 834 834 or alternatively visit www.citrusfinancial.com.

Mark Briegal is head of a specialist division, Ralli Partnership Law. The

division was set up in 2009 in response to an increase in registered LLPs

and a demand for specialist partnership law advice. An LLP is a partnership

formed under the Limited Liability Partnership Act 2000. It is a half way house

between a traditional partnership and a limited company. The members are self

employed but the LLP is a legal entity, like a company, and the members have

limited liability for business debts. Visit www.rallipartnershiplaw.co.uk for more

details and advice on partnership law.

Mark Higgins is a partner at Manchester-based law firm, Ralli. The firm

was founded in 1973 and over the past four decades has built up a strong and

highly regarded practice advising individuals and businesses in a wide range

of specialist areas, ranging from personal injury through to commercial and

employment law. Visit www.rallipartnershiplaw.co.uk for more details and

advice on partnership law.

��

Q

I run a successful business which is mainly

run by two of us, along with other staff. I am

concerned that should something happen to either

one of us the business will suffer as result – is there

anything that can be done to protect us?

David Braithwaite says: There is – and as you

A rightly point out, many small businesses rely

on key people who make decisions and run the

business as a team. But there are several steps you

can take to ensure the business will run smoothly

should the worst happen.

Firstly you should consider ‘key person’

insurance. This pays out an agreed amount to the

business should one of you die, or with certain

policies, suffer a named critical illness. That way

you can make sure that in the event of death the

business can afford to hire a replacement, and cover

any loss of profit as a result.

Another point worth noting is that if you

operate as a limited company, should one of the

shareholders die, these shares will revert to that

��

person’s estate. So, if for example there were

two individuals who are married running the

business, on the death of one director, that person’s

shareholding in the business passes to their spouse.

This causes complications as then this shareholder

has the same rights as the person who died, for

example decision making and voting rights in the

company. As the spouse is now a shareholder, they

“Any limited company should

have a legal agreement in place

to ensure that the shares are

relinquished upon death, often

in return for a cash sum.”

would also be entitled to sell their shares, perhaps

to a competitor. Any limited company should

therefore have a legal agreement in place to ensure

that the shares are relinquished upon death, often

in return for a cash sum. These agreements are

commonly known as ‘cross option’ agreements.

��

Q

I’ve heard Limited Liability Partnerships

(LLPs) are becoming a popular option when

setting up partnerships. Is this the case? If so, what

type of organisation is it best for?

AMark Briegal says: As a result of the

recession, there has been an increase in

business partnership disputes. Many business

owners have now chosen to reduce their personal

risk and opted for LLPs instead of traditional

partnerships. In the past four years, the number

of LLPs in the UK has risen by almost 50% and

now stands at more than 37,000, while traditional

partnerships have decreased.

Historically, LLPs and partnerships were common

agreements for professions such as lawyers and

accountants. If you are not a professional and are

looking to trade, a limited company is usually the

most sensible option. If your business has a small

turnover and you want limited liability, an LLP may

be best for you. You need your accountant to advise

on the tax implications of each.

��

�

��

Q

My business partner and I have decided to

go our own way. How do we dissolve our

agreement and divide up the assets?

AMark Briegal says: This depends on whether

you have a traditional partnership or an

LLP, and also on whether not you have a signed

partnership agreement. If you have a partnership

agreement then you will need to follow what it says

in the agreement.

“There is a range of mechanisms

a solicitor can advise on to help

you determine the price.”

If you are a traditional partnership with no

agreement, you need to agree to either end the

business and stop trading, or one of you can buy the

other out. There is a range of mechanisms a solicitor

can advise on to help you determine the price. In any

event you will need cessation accounts and to inform

all your customers and suppliers. Unless something

is agreed to the contrary, you split the net proceeds

50:50. If you have an LLP you will need to apply to

Companies House to have the partnership struck off

the register. You also still need to inform suppliers

and customers and to divide any net proceeds, which

a solicitor can assist you with.

��

Q

I have to make some redundancies this year.

How can I ensure I act lawfully and adhere to

fair procedures to avoid unfair dismissal claims?

Mark Higgins says: By not adhering to fair

A procedures, you leave yourself wide open to

attack and are forced to fight tribunal claims on

the back foot. To prove a genuine need to make

redundancies, you must show you have acted fairly

and reasonably in selecting those you want to let

go. The traditional ‘last in, first out’ method is now

heavily frowned upon and is vulnerable to claims of

age discrimination.

Redundancy is a form of dismissal, therefore

you must have reasonable grounds on which to

base a decision. You must have carried out a proper

��

“Redundancy is a form of

dismissal, therefore you must

have reasonable grounds on

which to base a decision.”

procedure, carefully considering what part of the

business you will make redundancies from and what

candidates will be selected. Your procedure must

include proper consultation with all staff who will

be affected, and also explain fully how the procedure

will work. The consultation will also provide an

outlet to listen to employees’ views. Those who are

ultimately selected for redundancy must be offered

the right of appeal against their dismissal.

The Advisory Conciliation and Arbitration

Service (ACAS) has issued a Code of Practice to

assist employers and their staff in dealing with issues

of discipline, dismissal and grievance. Although

adherence to the ACAS Code is not compulsory,

employment tribunals do take it into account and

may impose financial penalties to a party found to

have ignored its provisions. �

Further information

If you have a question about any aspect of your

business, simply write to: Q&A Special, Attire

Accessories Magazine, Broseley House, Newlands

Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2UL. Alternatively,

send your queries to editor@attireaccessories.com

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IT’S A CINCH

Rodéo Belts

Laguna London

JosyFlo

Still a key component for creating catwalk looks,

we examine belt trends for the autumn/winter

season. Read on to fi nd out more...

Belts are a traditional fi gure fi xer that are valuable

whether the accessory is worn to sit on the hip to

help a pair of jeans hang just so, or, as they have

been used in recent years, to cinch in the waist to

create a feminine silhouette. Over the past few

seasons an emphasis on the waist has dominated

the market and although the appetite for such

fl attering styles is sure to remain next season, the

fashion has moved on slightly for autumn/winter

2010. Whereas previously waist cinching styles

have been wide and quite sturdy, this season belts

in this shape are in softer fabrics such as supple

leather for a more relaxed appearance. In addition,

skinny belts have once again grown in popularity,

with designers including Donna Karan and Louis

Vuitton making use of slim styles, often in a shade

of deep brown, for a sleek 1950s secretary look. Th e

rock chick aesthetic also remains key for autumn/

winter and belts in black or dark brown leather

featuring chains and studs can be worn slung low

on the hip for a nonchalant, stylish appearance.

Read on to see a selection of the latest belt designs

to hit the market...

Supple soft leathers with Crystallized Swarovksi

has always been a winning fashion formula and

Rodéo Belts’ limited edition designs present

stunning value for money in the current market.

Th e brand has been described as opulent, feminine,

contemporary and edgy. Retailers and customers

alike love the styles and the company continues to

grow steadily each year. Designed in the UK and

exclusive to small independent retailers, the brand

delivers consistent quality and style. Short and

forward order is available with trade prices starting

from £35. Telephone +44 (0)2380 456 821 for


��

Butterfl y Blue

Fashion accessories label Laguna London brings

all the quality that retailers desire, from its

gorgeous range of bags to the great new season belt

collection. Th e fi nish of the belts is consistently

high throughout the range, with a focus on easy to

wear yet stylish designs, staying true to Laguna’s

simple but chic design ethos. All of the brand’s

fantastic belts are made from Italian leather and

are sure to add an understated, modish touch to

any daytime outfi t. Access www.lagunalondon.com

for more details.

Th e stylish new fair trade produced belts from

JosyFlo give women the freedom to look good,

shop ethically and keep their valuables safe and

secure. Th e products are handmade by Bhopal

Rehabilitation in India, a fair trade registered

non-governmental organisation set up to help

rehabilitate people aff ected by the Union Carbide

chemical disaster. Th e JosyFlo brand has been

created in response to a place in the market for

aff ordable fashion incorporating the safe and

practical needs of modern women. Each high

quality JosyFlo belt contains a hidden pocket or

two where the wearer can put valuables, money, a

credit card, house key or whatever essential item

they may need. Visit the website www.josyfl o.co.uk

to fi nd out more.

Butterfl y Blue’s luxurious leather belts are

handcrafted in the UK by a small, well established

family business using the highest quality Italian

leather hides. Each belt strip is selected for its

lightly textured grain and supple feel, meaning

that these belts should only improve with age as

an excellent wardrobe investment. Although all

Butterfl y Blue’s belts come with a simple, silver

coloured pin buckle, the wearer can un-pop the

press studs so that it can be easily replaced with

an eye-catching alternative to suit their mood. As

the majority of the buckles are sourced in Italy,

the current range is truly eclectic and includes

elegantly engraved silver, elaborately jewelled

hearts, sculptured roses, turquoise, jet and crystal

stonework, and a diamanté encrusted crown. For

more information access www.butterfl y-blue.co.uk

��

��

�

Successful brand Smith & Canova has introduced

a fabulous new range of sleek leather belts for

stylish consumers this season. All of the designs

in the range are beautifully embellished with

glamorous diamantés set into sophisticated black,

brown or tan leather, adding a touch of sparkle to

any outfi t. All of the on trend styles in the brand’s

varied range are available in sizes small, medium

and large. Telephone +44 (0)1132 406 662 for


Butter soft leather wraparound belts from Poltsa

have been carefully handmade in Spain in gorgeous

lambskin. Th e designs measure 230cm long, fi tting

around the waist twice and then tying at the front

in a cute bow or knot. To maintain the softness

of this type of leather the belts are not lined, but

unlike other versions the rims of these designs

are also stitched, not just folded and glued. Th e

belts are available in vibrant colours including

aqua, pink, lilac, sand, pistachio, orange, fuchsia,

turquoise, white, red, purple, black, brown, and tan.

Poltsa’s belts have a trade price of £15.80 plus vat

and are fi nished with a ‘handmade in Spain’ fabric

label, fi tting up to a size 16 approximately. Visit

www.poltsa.co.uk for further details.

Capiz

80 ATTIRE

Smith & Canova

Capiz has a brilliant range of belts this season that

range from skinny styles through to wide studded

creations and the ever popular waist cinching stretch

designs. Th e colour palette in the range is varied

and includes nautical reds and whites, navy, and

monochrome black and white. Prices range from

£4.95 - £12.95 and Capiz has two major seasonal

collections each year, showing at all the mainstream

trade exhibitions. Th e experienced company has a

showroom in Stowmarket, Suff olk and a full colour

brochure is also available for continued ordering

throughout the season. Call +44 (0)1449 775 566 to

fi nd out more.

7Vision Ltd

7Vision Ltd is a new company based in East

Yorkshire co-founded by CEO Malcolm Dyl, who

has over 20 years’ experience in the industry. Th e

company has globally recognised brand licences such

as Disney, Playboy, Religion, Ringspun and Ibiza

Rocks. A heavy metal infl uence has been translated

into key features on the latest women’s belts from

Religion, with the use of multi fi nish, multi size

chains to create a rock inspired look. Aged metallic

tones and matt black fabric fi nishes give a dark feel

to the collection, which features thin belts through

to high waisted designs. Call +44 (0)1262 404 169

for further information. A

Poltsa

STUNNING NEW COLLECTION AVAILABLE NOW

Limited Summer Stock available for immediate delivery

Autumn Winter 2010 Collection to preview now by appointment

www.gabriellahandbags.com

For further details please contact

Tel: 01606 869333 e mail: gaby@gabysfashion.com

�

�

Idea Store

Nichola Cain of Voice

Communications and member

of the Chartered Institute

of Public Relations offers

her advice on how to run a

successful in store event…

What are the benefits

of hosting an in store

event?

Defining the purpose

of your in store event

is essential - are you

trying to promote a

particular product or

launch a brand new

collection? Do you

want to draw new

customers in, or remind

your existing customers

about the quality and range of products available

from your store? By identifying exactly what it is

that you are trying to achieve, the event will have

a more definite sense of direction.

Hosting an in store event can have many

benefits, both in the short and long term. Getting

customers through the door is vital and people

that may normally walk past your store are often

tempted inside by a special in store event.

Hosting an event is also the perfect opportunity

for you to directly interact with your customers,

particularly because it allows you to spend time

with them, which cannot always happen on a

day-to-day basis. In the long term, hosting an

in store event offers you the chance to collect

customer information for future use, which

means that you’ll be better informed about their

preferences and can tailor your products and

future marketing accordingly.

I have no idea what makes a good in

store event – how do I go about planning

something like this?

It’s important to remember who your audience

is likely to be for the particular in store event that

you are planning - are you aiming for a particular

target demographic, like ABC1s? Do some

research into which local postcode areas these

people live in, and then you can target them with

a direct mailer invitation to the event.

Experience has taught us that people are likely

to be more interested if all of the information they

need about the event is easily accessible, so

be sure to include the date, time, venue, and

snappy bullet points detailing what will be on offer

so that they can immediately see why attending

is worthwhile.

Make sure you use an accurate and up-todate

customer database for marketing the event

as well, because then you can be assured that

you’re sending out the information to people who

will genuinely be interested, rather than wasting

both your time and money on targeting a vast

number of people, many of whom are unlikely to

attend. This is also important from the standpoint

of a company’s reputation – most of us know

how frustrating it can be to receive mail that is not

relevant to us.

��

When is a good time to host the event? What

day will work best for my customers so that

as many as possible can attend?

Steering clear of school holidays is highly

recommended as many people will have pre-

��

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organised plans for this time, so stick to term

time when people are likely to have more of a

structured routine. In regards to which day and

time, an evening is obviously preferable as most

of your customer base is likely to work during the

daytime. A Thursday often works well - people

are less keen to venture out on week nights, but

Thursday is close enough to the weekend to

appeal, as many will already be winding down

from the working week.

How do I go about promoting my in store

event so that I attract customers that will buy

from me in future?

Getting the local media on board is essential,

particularly if you’re launching a new product

or collection, as this can help to generate

awareness and communicate information to

people that may have been unable to attend

the in store event itself. However, journalists

need a valid reason to attend an in store event

and a hook to make it ‘newsworthy’ to their

readers. You could consider holding the event in

conjunction with a publication and take part in a

reader offer. Journalists are incredibly busy, so try

and make sure you contact the media as far in

advance as possible to the event so it gets put in

the diary.

What kind of attractions should I have at my

event to attract potential customers?

Having a raffle at your in store event can prove to

be worthwhile, particularly if you offer some kind

of money-can’t-buy prize, or a one off designer

piece, as this is often a good hook for people

that have not visited your store before. It can help

to drum up a lot of excitement amongst your

existing customers as well, as owning something

unique is likely to appeal to them. Also, by

hosting a raffle you are able to build your existing

database and obtain some basic information

about their preferences. Getting a local celebrity

on board at your event would also be very

beneficial, as this will help to attract the media.

Is there anything I should do after my in store

event?

Following up your customer data is essential after

hosting an in store event as this presents the

perfect opportunity to connect with potential and

existing customers, and to receive feedback on

the event for future reference.

��

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��

What else do I need to consider?

There are many logistical factors to consider for

an in store event. For example, it is a good idea

to provide some form of food and drink at your

event, particularly if it is an evening event – a few

nibbles and a small glass of something can help

to relax your guests, and gives the event more

of an informal feel. Parking is also an important

factor to consider – a lot of people will be put

off if they can not easily access your event,

so make sure you provide parking or are able

to recommend somewhere for your guests to

park. If you manage to get a celebrity or local

personality on board, you will also need someone

on hand to take care of them during the event. �

Further information

To find out more about Voice Communications

please contact Nichola Cain by calling

+44 (0)1621 890 230 or email

hello@voicecommunications.co.uk

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Iconic Retailers

We examine the inspirational qualities of some of the best

stores from the world’s fashion capitals...

If the diverse cities New York, Paris, London, Milan and

Tokyo have one thing in common, it’s fashion. But how

do some of the best fashion stores from these amazing

cities match up? Whether you’re in Tokyo searching for the

wackiest gadget or Milan for a fashion-meets-art experience,

the major fashion capitals have some of the biggest players

on the consumer market.

We take a whistle stop tour of some of the world’s leading

stores to see what retailers can learn from their success.

Read on to find out more...

Selfridges – London, UK

Address: 400 Oxford Street, London,

W1A 1AB

Phone: +44 (0)800 123 400

Website: www.selfridges.com

Founded in 1909, Selfridges is London’s second largest department

store after Harrods, with three other UK stores. Founder Harry Gordon

Selfridge is attributed with coining the phrase “the customer is always

right” and the store claims to have the busiest beauty hall in the world.

Selfridges has a reputation for crowd-pulling events (the first public

demonstration of the television was on the first floor in 1925) and its

January sale is famous for harvesting massive savings on labels otherwise

out-of-reach for the average Oxford Street shopper. Thanks to diverse,

ever-changing window displays and bold advertising campaigns, the

windows of Selfridges feature frequently in glossy publications.

Selfridges caters to fans of exclusive and expensive labels but also

stocks brands including Uggs and Superdry. This is a department store

in the strictest sense; anything from jugs to jumpsuits can be purchased

here. Many shoppers visit Selfridges exclusively for the Food Hall, where

they can pick up an own brand bottle of vintage champagne to desirable

Godiva chocolates.

84 ATTIRE

London

Tokyo

Tokyu Hands – Tokyo, Japan

Address: Times Square Bldg., 5-24-2 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku,

Tokyo, Japan

Phone: 03 5361 3111

Website: www.tokyu-hands.co.jp

(in Japanese)

Tokyu Hands is a department store that focuses on lifestyle products,

hobby, craft and home improvement, highlighting Japan’s love of

gadgetry with seven stores in Tokyo alone. Billing itself as the “Creative

Life Store”, this one-stop shop for the serious hobbyist or DIY fan

stocks everything from traditional Japanese tabi (split-toed socks) to toys

or camping gear.

There are countless, wonderfully peculiar items for tourists looking

for a souvenir oddity, and free workshops and demonstrations are

available daily. There is even a woodworking shop where shoppers can

get timber cut and planed, whilst animal lovers can pet up to 20 cats in

the Nekobukuro, or 'Cat’s House', which takes up an entire floor of one

of the stores.

Tokyu Hands shoppers are also encouraged to try products out and

approach the displays, which have the visual impression of a denselypacked

supermarket.

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Bergdorf Goodman – New York, USA

Address: 754 Fifth Avenue, New York City, New York, USA

Phone: +1 800 558 1855

Website: www.bergdorfgoodman.com

New York department store Bergdorf Goodman, situated on stylish 5th

Avenue, features well-organised departments and uncluttered displays

that echo the sophisticated tastes of the majority of the famous store’s

discerning clientele.

This store caters widely; polished designer salons on eight floors

provide both haute couture brands such as Chanel and Prada in addition

to less expensive downtown players. The store even has two shoe

departments, for both ends of the spending spectrum. The bridal salon

is a vision of Art Deco style, with silk walls and chrome finishings, and

specialised consultants are on hand to help clients into their Oscar de la

Renta or Ulla Maija gown. Across the street from the flagship building is

the Bergdorf Goodman Menswear store, offering made-to-measure suits

and bespoke accessories.

Bergdorf Goodman is famous for its highly-stylised visual

merchandising and, much like Selfridges, viewing its festive window

displays is something of a Christmas tradition in New York. Last year,

antiques were coupled with couture fashion to create a ‘Compendium of

Curiosities’, taking influence from Alice in Wonderland and works by the

graphic artist MC Escher.

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Colette – Paris, France

Address: 213 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France

Phone: 01 55 35 33 90

Website: www.colette.fr

10 Corso Como – Milan, Italy

Address: Corso Como, 10, 20154 Milano, Italy

Phone: 02 2901 3581

Website: www.10corsocomo.com

��

This small, privately-owned concept store in the centre of Paris achieved world-wide

attention in 2008 when it was re-designed by Japanese architects Wonderwall, renowned

for re-working store spaces for global brands including Marc Jacobs and Billionaire Boys

Club. Inside the store, which carries the tagline ‘style design art food’, a diverse selection of

products from brands such as avant-garde designer label Martin Margiela and the street

brand Visvim.

Colette earns kudos for the fact that new lines are often internationally debuted at

the store and it has even collaborated with the likes of BAPE and camera designers

Lomography as a creative space.

The philosophy of Colette is to unite fashion and art, so it is appropriate that the shop

has its own transforming art space showcasing mixed-media material from street art to

video installations. Those consumers whose thirst for fashion isn’t quenched at the end of

their visit can even try over 100 brands of mineral water at the store’s in-house ‘Water Bar’.

��

Founder of 10 Corso Como (10CC), Carla Sozzani, who is the sister

of Franca Sozzani, the editor-in-chief of Vogue Italia, was inspired by

Moroccan bazaars and 1970s London boutique Biba when in 1988, with

the help of artist-boyfriend Kris Ruhs, she converted a garage into the

renowned concept store/gallery that now stands in the middle of a leafy

courtyard in Milan.

Situated in an off-central neighbourhood of Milan, 10CC hosts an

array of luxury goods, high-end clothing and rare imports, and the store

even collaborated with Liberty of London this year.

Taking inspiration from the Italian way of eating in a leisurely manner,

the store’s philosophy is one of ‘slow shopping’, promoting an experience

in which the shopper should take their time to enjoy how the collections

are displayed. 10CC also features an art gallery, bookshop, garden café and

a three-roomed hotel.

��

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www.umbrellasatlindylou.co.uk

Sales enquiries Telephone 01273564020

or email sales@umbrellasatlindylou.co.uk

From brollies to boots,

wet weather wear is

essential to stock and

can be great fun for

consumers. Read on to

fi nd out more...

Gene Kelly may have had a whale of a time singing in the rain in

Hollywood, but on these shores wet weather is a more frequent and sadly

less glamorous occurrence, with most of the UK extremely well acquainted

with the odd spit spot of dreary rainfall. The weather may be gloomy in

autumn and winter, however, retailers can easily bring a splash of colour

and style to consumers with a well-chosen selection of wet weather wear.

This is evidently a welcome offering, especially when one thinks back to

all of the bright and amusing transparent dome umbrellas and wellington

boots that fl ooded trade shows and high streets earlier this year. The point

of sale and gift sections of a store are the ideal home for brollies, which are

often an emergency purchase but also make perfect presents, whilst sales

of wellies can actually remain steady throughout the year thanks to music

festival fashion. Read on to see a selection of the latest wet weather wear

to hit the market...

Susino’s new ‘Fall in Love with the Rain’ range will feature the latest musthave

designs for the autumn/winter 2010 season. The ever popular ‘I Love

Rain’ clear birdcage umbrella has been given a chic twist on luxurious

black fabric and is fi nished with a feminine, frilled fabric edging that

fashionistas will adore. Retailers should also look out for what is sure to be

a best seller for Susino this autumn/winter, the eye-catching ‘Diamanté’

style. Nothing will stand out more beautifully than this diamanté fi nished

umbrella, which is featured on the company’s latest automatic frame

design. Access www.susino.co.uk for further information.

Lindy Lou

��

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Ferre Milano

Pasotti Umbrellas

Susino

Innovative company Lindy Lou has wisely long championed the popularity

of stylish and sensible dome-shaped, see-through umbrellas, which have

brought common sense to the streets of Britain as products that are

genuinely resilient, practical and frequently striking fashion statements

in fun colours and designs. Specialist distributors Lindy Lou now also

produces downpour-resistant matching PVC bags for its funky umbrellas,

which are ideal when shopping, dashing around college or just for everyday

usage. In addition, the company offers the reliable ‘wind-proof’ umbrella,

which is billed as the world’s only guaranteed wind-proof, see-through

umbrella. To fi nd out more visit www.umbrellasatlindylou.co.uk

The chic umbrellas from Ferre Milano are designed and manufactured

in the heart of Italy’s fashion capital, Milan. The umbrellas have been

produced in the stylish city for decades using traditional techniques,

and demonstrate the valuable expertise of a renowned family company.

Gianfranco Ferre’s philosophy of cutting-edge design, affordability and

most of all style inform the beautiful designs, and there is truly something

for everyone in the varied Ferre collection. For more information on the

range telephone Aqueo Design on +44 (0)1614 308 880.

The gorgeous Mantova region of Italy plays host to the design and

manufacture of Pasotti Umbrellas. Using the fi nest fabrics, handles and

a particular attention to detail, these umbrellas are not only functional but

also a sophisticated fashion statement. The wonderful designs provide an

interesting add-on product for most retailers looking for something different

which is available exclusively and not in every store on the high street. To

fi nd out more telephone Aqueo Design on +44 (0)1614 308 880.

��

�

Welligogs

Welligogs originally became famous for its hand-painted designs on rubber

boots and matching accessories for adults and children, and the clever

company has now added Welligogs Classics waterproof and breathable

leather boots to its brilliant range. Welligogs’ popular Sloane and Ranger

boots are ideal for the garden, walking, après ski, hunting, or just keeping

feet warmer in the damp winter and cooler in the summer months. New

for 2010 is a range of quality clothing to co-ordinate with the already

successful footwear line, which refl ects attention to detail and traditional

British styling. Each quality garment is designed for comfort without losing

any elegance or sophistication. Keeping its customers’ expectations in

mind for a high standard of product for use in the country or city, Welligogs

provides fully functional and performance products that have waterproof,

breathable and washable qualities within its range. Visit the company

website www.welligogs.com for further details.

H.Due.O Umbrellas are designed in Italy by world renowned architectural

company ‘StudioVeronesi’ and all of the fantastic products feature

exclusive and distinctive designs that belie their modish origins. Many of

the popular styles from H.Due.O Umbrellas have funky handles such as a

cat’s head or a fl ower, showing the excellent attention to detail that makes

the brand such a hit with consumers. The brand also caters very well for

men, with styles that feature handles in the shape of a car’s gear stick.

H.Due.O Umbrellas is considered to be a genuinely inspirational brand with

hundreds of great styles to choose from each season. Telephone Aqueo

Design on +44 (0)1614 308 880 for further information.

BB Designs

BB Designs is proud to present an

excellent range of wet weather

protection this season, and it’s fun,

funky and sure to brighten up any

wet day. Umbrella designs feature

iconic and beloved characters

including Betty Boop, Hello Kitty,

Little Miss and Mr. Men, Sponge

Bob Squarepants, as well as The

Cat & Dog, so retailers are spoilt

for choice when it comes to selecting

appealing new lines. Those consumers that

are a little on the wild side have been catered

to by BB Designs with the latest animal fashion designs such as leopard

and zebra prints. Each umbrella offers simplicity alongside its ability to

stand out in the crowd. Telephone +44 (0)208 998 7711 for further details.

��

H.Due.O Umbrellas

Caro London can be found in many boutiques nationwide and this season

sees the launch of the brand’s long anticipated raincoats, which are

100% waterproof and perfectly complemented by a range of matching

accessories and adorable rain hats. Each unique item from Caro is easily

recognisable by the brand’s feminine and colourful styling, which often

takes in pretty prints in a fabulous quality fi nish. The products in the

autumn/winter 2010 collection are available in the new season prints

Purple Honesty and Turquoise Honesty, as well as traditional favourites

Woodblock and Puzzle. For more information access the website

www.carolondon.co.uk �

Caro London

Next Issue

No mean feet

Inspirational party shoes

Latest Trade Show w

Previews

Chic - Home & Gift - Pure - Moda

Mane attraction

Our pick of top hair accessories

Its all about

the clutch

Cute clutch bags

Beautifully

bejewelled

Women’s jewellery

trends

��

Plus

� Brand New Products � Expert Advice

� Industry News

ISSUE 20

July/August 2010

Available from: 28 th June 2010

Advertising deadline: 11 th June 2010

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ATTIRE 89

From little acorns

TreeTwist is a little woodland wonder founded

by Sez Maxted and Katie Maitland with a simple

objective to help ordinary people do their bit

for the environment painlessly by buying an

affordable and desirable gift. Put simply, every

TreeTwist bought represents a tree. “TreeTwist

Ltd was established to help everyday individuals

and families do something positive to help combat

climate change by making it easy to plant a tree,”

explains Sez. “We are different because not only

do we plant the tree, we acknowledge the purchase

by giving a TreeTwist to act as a talisman and a

reminder of the tree.”

The trees are planted by TreeTwist partners,

Trees for Life in the Caledonian Forest in the

��

North West Highlands of Scotland. Trees for Life

is a multi award-winning organisation recognised

as world experts in reforestation, and the types of

trees planted are rowan, alder, birch or Scots pine.

In addition, Trees for Life propagate seedlings

gathered on the forest floor for TreeTwist, allowing

the cycle of life to continue.

Katie and Sez launched TreeTwist in an

attempt to do their bit for the planet as they felt

that as consumers they were not being offered the

opportunity to do something simple and effective

which could be easily absorbed into their everyday

lives. “Present giving was a particular frustration,”

says Sez, “Katie and I believe that if we all make a

small step then together we can make a difference.”

�

TreeTwist is a new company putting a fresh twist on helping save the planet with cute and

colourful designs...

“We have managed to create an entirely UK based

project: the TreeTwists are designed and made

in the UK and the trees planted in the UK. Our

TreeTwists are designed by Ingrid Tait of Tait

& Style, and handmade largely by outworkers in

the Shetland and Orkney Islands. The collection

includes woollen scarves, bracelets and clips each

with leaves, bobbles, flowers or hearts. The scarves

in particular have never been seen before, and are

metre long tubes of wool. The new ToyClip range

has been created to bring fun and humour to the

collection, allowing consumers to buy clips with a

squirrel, a mouse, an owl or a bird.”

The products are made from natural materials

and Tait & Style’s designs are both eye-catching

and entirely original. Using largely wool and felt

the range comes in a variety of different, rich

colours from earthy and masculine tones to bright,

vivid colours.

For Valentine’s Day, TreeTwist produced

a special edition Twist to celebrate love. “The

LoveTwist has been running a little longer after

we reached the conclusion that love shouldn’t be

tied down to just one day!” Sez explains. “When

you buy a LoveTwist, two trees will be planted side

by side in the Caledonian Forest in North West

Scotland, destined to spend their lives intertwined.

What could be more romantic?”

A Tawny Owl TreeClip is one of the latest

introductions as a tree for the future in wool. The

TreeOwl is hand made from pure wool by Tait

& Style exclusively for TreeTwist. Every one sold

represents a seedling planted in the Caledonian

Forest. The TreeOwl can be clipped onto a bag,

keys or belt, making an ideal eco-gift for friends

and family and to help draw attention to the cause. �

Further information

To find out more call +44 (0)8701 420 388 or

visit the website www.treetwist.co.uk

S/S 2011 COLLECTIONS

London Pure

1st - 3rd August 2010

Paris Premier Classe

4th - 7th September 2010

Milan Mipel

19th - 22nd September 2010

UK Boutique by Chic

3rd - 5th October 2010

Accessories - Attire Accessories magazine

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