Bangladesh Fashion Industry Controversy

After the deadly Rana Plaza collapse which claimed the lives of 1,130 people this year, apparel buyers have started leaving Bangladesh for other countries including Cambodia, Indonesia, Pakistan, etc,.  Is it possible that large fashion brands and retailers are unjustifiably caving to the pressure put on them by the media?  When a specific factory does not meet safety standards, it does not mean that the entire country should be abandoned.  For those of you that have shouted, “close down all garment factories in Bangladesh”, please keep in mind the unemployed people that would be left behind in the wake.

The poverty level in Bangladesh is beyond belief.  When a factory closes, where do you think those people are going to get a new job?  Where are they going to get food?  Where will they live?

The unfortunate reality is that international garment buyers are critical to improving factory safety in Bangladesh.  If the larger corporations leave Bangladesh, the number & quality of factory inspections will likely diminish.  Large clothing companies often have more stringent rules and inspection processes than smaller companies.  If large international clothing buyers are not in Bangladesh pushing factory owners to do better, potential troubles may become more likely. 

Buyers should not be dissuaded by global scrutiny of safety in Bangladesh.  Each factory is different and needs to be evaluated separately.  Obviously, buyers should NOT work with factories that do not meet safety standards.  However, they should continue to work hard to find factories that do meet and surpass the standards. 

Is it proper to pull out from the entire country?  A more responsible concept would be for the clothing companies to stay in Bangladesh, and work with factory owners to “improve”.

Help make Bangladesh better.  Don’t turn your back on the factories or the people.

What is your thoughts on the subject?  Should the garment industry leave Bangladesh, or stay there and help the factories improve?

Thinspiration: Self-Esteem of Young Girls

Conventional thinking has flown out the window for advertisers who want to attract women to their product, according to a new report from the University of Manitoba and University of Michigan.

The report is based off of three studies that conclude blatant, in-your-face content featuring thin, young models actually turn off a woman’s desire for the product; subjects saw the pitch as too transparent. This recognition alerted an individual’s defense mechanism, which actually boosted self-esteem. But when and an idealized model was used to sell a product with more subtlety, subjects were more prone to want the product and be the woman in the advertisement.
“So, this study has some mixed good news, but there’s still an avalanche of negativity pulling down our girls and young women; according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, roughly 70 percent of girls in middle and high school, and even as young as fifth grade, say idealized images of women in magazines guide their sense of the perfect body,” says women’s advocate Stacey Rowcliffe, author of “Female Fusion: Different Flowers from the Same Garden”. 

“There’s even a blog called ‘thinspiration,’ or ‘thinspo,’ which features young women and girls writing about ways and experiences in losing massive amounts of weight. With this kind of mindset, a girl is never skinny enough and often results in anorexia, bulimia and an imprisoning sense of never being good enough.”

Rowcliffe says the primary influence on a girl’s life is the older woman raising her; she offers three perspectives in which older women may offer advice to girls and young women:

• Past pains shape character and provide inner strength: Many people may think of Christina Aguilera as a pampered pop diva; however, in reality, she has worked hard and endured a difficult home life as a small child. As a 10-year-old, she had already gained a reputation as a little girl with a big voice. Later, after having become a world-famous celebrity, she cited domestic violence in her home as a reason for her enduring drive and passionate voice. Just as muscle is developed and built with tension, so too challenging situations builds and defines character. 

• Keeping it real … Young women need to understand that much of what is seen on television and internet ads, billboards and in magazines has been altered far beyond what is real. Digital imaging has made it possible to remove cellulite and other flaws before an image is finalized. There are videos available that show just how much a model is transformed before being photographed, and the before-and-after images are drastically different. Additionally, cosmetic surgery plays upon the fears of young and beautiful women who still feel the need to implement botox, breast implants, facelifts, nose lifts, cellulite removal, tummy tucks, butt implants and the like. Women were created to be beautiful; once that is realized, her inner beauty will shine. 

• Relationships (among family, friends, boyfriends & sisters): Every issue, belief, attitude or assumption not only shapes the relationships between you and other human beings; it shapes the relationship you have with yourself! The above points – accepting past pain and being honest with yourself and others – are intimately linked to your relationship with others. How you treat others is a measure of who you are. If you are obsessed with trying to be the prettiest and thinnest girl in class, it’s a clear sign you are not comfortable in your own skin.

About Stacey Rowcliffe

Stacey Rowcliffe is nearing completion of her master’s degree in clinical psychology. She lives in Billings, Mont., with her two children, Brittney and Ryan, who both have Type 1 diabetes. “Female Fusion” is her second published book. Rowcliffe believes that no matter what people are battling, their mindset and response determine the paths their lives take.  

Maria Sharapova Wearing Moschino May 2013

Maria Sharapova wore a crepe black romper with ivory collar detail from Moschino precollection Autumn/Winter 2013-2014 during the event “Sugarpova”.

Whitney Port Wears Kara Ackerman in Beverly Hills Last Night

Whitney Port wore Kara Ackerman rings to The Beverly Hilton Unveils Redesigned Aqua Pool by Estee Stanley last night in Beverly Hills! The fashionista stacked two Kara Ackerman Talulah Marquise Rings in Rose Vermeil and Sterling Silver ($60 each; www.karaackerman.com). The same stacking rings are a favorite of Jennifer Lawrence, Lauren Conrad, Lea Michele and Chelsea Handler.

Did you know that the Style Blog recently spotted Jennifer Lawrence wearing Kara Ackerman?

Mac Duggal Fashion Brand

The Mac Duggal brand is positioned at the high end of the women’s special occasion dress market and includes eleven different collections driven by Designer Mac Duggal’s artistic, modern and luxurious design with couture-inspired fit and sizing.

Celebs Wearing Earnest Sewn 2013

CELEBS LOVE EARNEST SEWN FOR SPRING! Jessica Alba, Natalie Portman, Heidi Klum and Kate Beckinsale are just a few of Hollywood’s A-list rocking the denim brand. Check out Earnest Sewn’s latest additions of Soft Pink, Mint Green and Baby Blue Esras! (www.earnestsewn.com).  

View the following celebs wearing Earnest Sewn (some of these may be prior to 2013):

Mary-Kate Olsen
Ashley Olsen
Natalie Portman
Christina Aguilera
Sarah Jessica Parker

Lana Parrilla Shines in State Room Jewelry and Soffer Ari at Annual Gracie Awards

Actress Lana Parrilla looks beautiful in State Room Jewelry and Soffer Ari at the 38th Annual Gracie Awards Gala on May 21st, 2013 in Beverly Hills, CA. Lana Parrilla paired State Room Jewelry's Pink Opal Tear Drop Earrings in Pink Opal and White Diamonds with the Band of Ones N.C. Tranquility Ring in Yellow gold and Black and White Diamonds by Soffer Ari to the awards. State Room Jewelry is the line by Sarin Minassian whose collection offers both subtle, elegant pieces to bolder, statement ones. The collection is inspired from trends from around the world, and provides pieces that can transition from day to night. State Room Jewelry has already been spotted on celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence, Shakira, and Blake Lively and is available for purchase at www.stateroomjewelry.com. Soffer Ari is a Los Angeles based line that was started in 1995. Each piece is handmade and the precious stones are hand picked to ensure the highest quality of genuine gems. The line appeals to those who demand perfection and exudes the Los Angeles rocker style. Soffer Arihas a following amongst Hollywood's elite including Katy Perry and Rosario Dawson. Soffer Ari is available for purchase at www.sofferari.com.

Taylor Swift has Fun at the 2013 Billboard Music Awards

Taylor Swift has Fun in Kami Lerner and Ocnarf Sairutsa at the 2013 Billboard Music Awards Taylor Swift rocks out on stage in Kami Lerner and Ocnarf Sairutsa at the 2013 Billboard Music Awards on May 20th, 2013 in Las Vegas, NV. Taylor wore the Carnelian Wire Wrap Bracelet with Thai Gold Infinity Circle from Kami Lerner and the Diamond Bar Bracelet from Ocnarf Sairutsa to the awards. Kami Lerner is a self-taught artist who uses her personal life experiences as a creative inspiration for her jewels. The L.A. native creates dainty jewelry that is both wearable and true to her L.A. roots. Lerner’s collection of wrap rings and necklaces give the line a perfect balance between modern and edgy. The collection provides pieces that can transition from day to night in any season. Kami Lerner is a popular line among Hollywood celebrities such as Emma Roberts, Nicole Richie, and Selena Gomez and is available for purchase at www.kamiart.com. Ocnarf Sairutsa is the Los Angeles based line found in 2011 by Priscilla Franco-Asturias and Andrea Franco -Asturias. Each piece is hand-made with natural elements and offers a unique vintage rock edge. Ocnarf Sairutsa has already attracted the attention of celebrities such as Anne Hathaway, Halle Berry, and Kelly Clarkson and is available for purchase at www.ocnarfsairutsa.com.

Kami Lerner Carnelian Wire Wrap Bracelet with Thai Gold Infinity Circle. $108.00 Ocnarf Sairutsa Etnika Diamond Bar Bracelet in Diamonds and Yak Bone. $1,000.00

Alessandra Ambrosio in Junk Food May 2013

Alessandra Ambrosio rocked a Junk Food maxi dress taking her daughter, Anja to the dentist earlier today in Los Angeles . The supermodel styled her Pink Floyd Maxi Dress with a plaid shirt for the ultimate 90's Grunge-inspired look (available next week, $55, www.junkfoodclothing.com).

View more fashion blog posts about Alessandra Ambrosio at the Fashion Salad blog.

MMPR to Represent Roni Blanshay Jewelry Collection

Michele Marie PR announces its representation of Roni Blanshay, a jewelry collection offering an unprecedented array of jewels that speaks to the essence of glamour and sophistication. Dripping with green onyx, turquoise, moonstone, baroque freshwater pearls and ruby, Roni Blanshay includes an impressive assortment of earrings, rings, cuffs, and necklaces that illustrate femininity and elegance. From stunning earrings designed with filigree discs embedded with Swarovski crystals to boldly dramatic cuffs that are saturated with colored gems, the collection is comprised of vibrant hues and intricate craftsmanship and illuminates a dramatic fashion aesthetic.

Already a highly acclaimed retail success in the U.S. and internationally, Roni Blanshay has been worn by some of the nation's most influential women, including Oprah Winfrey, Sofia Vergara, Hoda Kotb, and many others. Sold at Bloomingdales across the country, Jennifer Miller, Alene Too, and Shaw Jewelry, Roni Blanshay jewelry has made a statement overseas in Canada, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, as well as Puerto Rico. The collection ranges in price from $200-$2500; http://roniblanshay.com/.

Hot Tanks from American Apparel

Fashion Tank Tops are the hot new look at American Apparel

American Apparel has new Cotton/Spandex Tank Tops

New Summer 2013 Arrivals at Quiksilver and Roxy

	Learn more about these livestyle fashion brands at Quiksilver and Roxy.

Premium Young Designers Award July 2013

Premium Young Designers Award July 2013

Major L.A. Gift Market to be held at CMC January 21-27, 2014

The California Market Center (CMC), the West Coast’s epicenter of fashion/gift/home and design has chosen the dates of Tuesday, January 21 to Monday, January 27, 2014 to hold its major Winter 2014 Gift & Home Market, it was announced by Gerry Seibel, Vice President of New Business Development for CMC.

“Originally the dates for the winter 2014 show were set for mid-January 2014, at all three locations

which make up the L.A. Gift Market. However, these dates were recently changed to the very last

week of January and into February 2014, putting the L.A. Gift Market right on top of the three other

major shows—NY NOW, Las Vegas, and the Frankfort Fair. These later dates would interfere with

retailers, manufacturers, and sales representatives’ ability to attend other shows critical to their

businesses,” states Seibel. “While the CMC is committed to its policy of cooperation with the L.A.

Mart and the California Gift Show, our partners in a unified west coast market, CMC’s tenants and its

major manufacturers were greatly alarmed about a date change which would put the California Show

so late in the market season. So, after extensive discussions with leading retailers and our tenants,

the Gift & Home showrooms at CMC have been forced to change our dates so as not to be in conflict

with any other major show and so that we may offer our valued retailers a productive, profitable, and

comprehensive buying experience!”

Mickey Lang, president of the nationally known sales organization California Marketing Associates

(CMA), is in total agreement with CMC’s decision on the show date change. “CMA represents over

130 leading home/gift/fashion/seasonal lines in our 40,000 sq. ft. home in CMC. Having the

California Show held so late in January would have a very negative effect on our business, and would

have made it impossible for us to cover other shows that our manufacturers need us to attend in this

crowded show season,” comments Lang. “I applaud CMC management for making the courageous

decision to set its winter 2014 dates to accommodate the needs of its customers!”

Echoes Dale Zizi, who heads the sales group which represents such leading Christmas/seasonal

manufacturers as Melrose International, Katherine’s Collection, Bethany Lowe Designs, Lynn Haney

Collection, T.J.’s Christmas, and Vickerman Trees & Lights: “If the CMC , the L.A. Mart and the

California Gift Show’s market’s dates all had been set to begin at the very end of January 2014, it

would have created an impossible problem for our manufacturers; they would not have been able to

attend the west coast’s show at these late dates, due to their commitments to other shows around the

country and in Europe. January is when we debut our Christmas, Halloween, and Fall product and is

an extremely important time for our buyers, manufacturers, and company principals to review what is

up and coming for the new year. That is why CMC’s plan to hold its winter 2014 Home & Gift Market

earlier in January is so vital to all of our companies.”

In addition to holding its own CMC Gift & Home Show January 21-27, 2014, for the convenience of

buyers, the Gift & Home showrooms at the California Market Center will also be open every day of

the California Gift Show, January 31 – February 3, 2014. During its January 21-27, 2014 Gift & Home

Show, CMC will offer its attendees many buyer’s perks including free parking, free breakfasts, and

complimentary shuttle services, and numerous promotions. All of CMC’s Gift, Home and Design

Center showrooms will also be open January 14-20 during the 2014 LA Fashion Week, a major

market for apparel, fashion accessories, jewelry, and children’s products. “Having all of our Gift &

Home showrooms open and available at the same time as L.A. Fashion Week has proven to be very

successful in allowing cross-over buying opportunities for both gift and fashion retailers,” says Seibel.

For additional information on its upcoming market schedule and show amenities, please contact the

California Market Center (CMC), 110 East 9th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90079, 213.630.1701

Website: www.californiamarketcenter.com.

Get Celebrity Fit Before Your Big Day

Summer is just around the corner and it’s time to get serious about shaping up!

Of course every bride would like to look her best on her wedding day, and as summer is just around the corner the bride and bridal part aren’t the only ones that will need a little push to hit the gym and get a bit sweaty. Who doesn’t want the Jessica Biel booty, or Halle Berry’s tight abs, or how about Kate Hudson’s sexy back?

This infographic is loaded with targeted exercises the Hollywood Stars use and swear by. Have a look and then print it out and check off the days as you go! 

These suggestions are from our friends at Simply Bridal.

Vint & York's New Summer Statement Sunglasses

Statement sunglasses are the new statement necklace. Bold frames with bright colors dominated the runway for several designers' Spring 2013 shows. Alexander Wang, Tom Ford and Alexander McQueen all agreed, standout modern versions of the classic cat-eye and rounded frames were the must-have trend for this spring.

In step with top designers, Vint & York has recently launched its debut collection of vintage-inspired, statement frames. Vint & York's frames feature sleek curves and textures while opting for bright colors over neutrals and modern twists on classic shapes. Combined with Vint & York's sunglass lens option, these frames are perfect for beach volleyball, getting buried in the sand or simply lounging in the sun all while sporting the latest trends. Choose from brown or grey lenses and mix and match to create a pair that complements your personal style.

It is an updated version of the iconic cat-eye. All personality and confidence, these frames are ideal for any "it" girl. Swanky is an attention-grabbing rounded frame with a keyhole bridge, sure to emphasize your edge and impeccable taste. Great Escape's unique shape is just the look for anyone wanting to reinvent their style. Ritzy, named for the early 20th century slang meaning "elegant or opulent," is a perfect stand-out frame.

All frames retail for $109 at Vintandyork.com. 

Fashion at the Forum Shops for Summertime 2013

It’s Summertime at The Forum Shops LAS VEGAS - May 2013 - The Forum Shops has the hottest items to complete any look this summer, from sexy swimwear to fashionable hats for men. At Vilebrequin, attention to detail, exclusive prints, a vast range of colors, carefully designed cut and 32 precise manufacturing phases go into the unique, eternally elegant and sophisticated men’s swimwear. Also available for men at Ted Baker London is the Deales two tone hat, a paper trilby hat with a woven contrast pattern and Ted Baker London branded stud. Bright patterns include Moorea sharks and bright orange Moorea Citrouille. Coach has a wide selection of accessories to complete any summer look including, the new Alexa sunglasses, Custom-crafted exclusively for Coach, this dramatic design combines a cat-eye shape reminiscent of glamorous 50s-era styles with a playful use of color inspired. Also available at Coach is the Coco flat sandal, artisanally tanned vachetta combines with neon, metallic or python-embossed leathers on an unexpectedly luxurious update of the classic thong sandal. The On the Go Metallic Canvas Tote at Diane Von Furstenberg is polished and chic, the must-have bag of the season, perfect for poolside action. Look no further than The Forum Shops for perfect swimwear. At Ted Baker London, the neon striped Celista adds a pop of pink, while the Marleni in a treasured orchid pattern adds a splash of floral to any ensemble. Ted Baker London also has a variety of beautiful maxi dresses to complement each bikini. La Perla has a beautiful range of bikinis in their La Perla Mare collection.

Mother’s Day at The Forum Shops It’s all about the bling this Mother’s Day. Hearts On Fire has a beautiful selection of jewelry for moms including the Copley Pave Pendant, perfectly cut diamonds pave set, are encircled in a fashionable gold setting and hang from an 18” light weight cable chain. This diamond pendant necklace is fabulous worn alone or paired with other necklaces, and will take you from day into the evening. At Hublot, the Big Bang Gold White Diamonds timepiece in 18K Red Gold set with 114 diamonds on a white structured rubber is sure to make any mother smile. Nobody loves you like your mum – and that’s why Ted Baker London treats his like the Queen of England. Give your mother the royal treatment this season with Ted’s latest assortment of spring styles and accessories fit for the queen in your life.

H&M Celebrated the Launch of the Conscious Exclusive Collection H&M, Hennes & Mauritz celebrated the launch of its second Conscious Exclusive collection with special events in San Francisco, New York City, West Hollywood and Miami. The collection, which recently hit stores, is comprised of chic red carpet looks for men and women made from more sustainable materials such as organic cotton, silk-like tencel, recycled polyester and tulle. The collection showcases an ivory three piece suit, a black cutaway jumpsuit and a classic “little black dress” with a twist for women. The men’s side features a rose print lined tuxedo jacket, a white dinner suit and slim cut trousers. H&M’s Conscious collections are at the forefront of both fashion and sustainability, without compromising quality and price.

The Forum Shops at Caesars is proud to acknowledge the following 2013 Las Vegas Review Journal's Best of Las Vegas The Cheesecake Factory Best Family Restaurant Trevi Best Italian Restaurant Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab Best Seafood The Forum Shops at Caesars/AmeriPark Best Valet

Sergio Rossi New Concept Store Opens In Las Vegas Exclusively at The Forum Shops at Caesars Sergio Rossi’s new store design concept is unveiled only in Las Vegas at The Forum Shops at Caesars. A playful tribute to femininity and an alluring homage to the world’s screen icons, the Sergio Rossi boutique inside The Forum Shop celebrates womanly beauty and power. This prestigious store offers 9,623 square feet of awe-inspiring retail space. The shapes of the furnishings are inspired by the high heeled shoe’s curvaceous silhouette. The collections are placed in two contrasting areas of the store: the “Front Stage” and “Back Stage”. The “Front Stage” design uses large, brass and glass sculptural display cases, while the shoes are presented on multi-level, brightly polished, brass cubes. The black and white herringbone-pattern Italian marble floor compliments the classical red velvet chaise lounge where customers can comfortably experience the seduction of the Sergio Rossi shoe. The walls are covered in skin-tone curtains and the ceilings are adorned with varying heights of brass lights. In contrast to the “Front Stage,” the “Back Stage” offers a darker, more intimate setting for the customer. This area of the store combines dramatic furnishings and domestic comfort. The walls are covered in floor to ceiling deep blue velvet curtains. The curvaceous, blue velvet sofa beckons customers to relax and enjoy the experience underneath the royal blue, plush carpet accented by a zebra skin rug. The Sergio Rossi store inside The Forum Shops features women's and men's shoes as well as women's accessories.

L.K.Bennett London is Officially Open at The Forum Shops at Caesars British accessible luxury brand, L.K.Bennett London, officially opens the fashion house’s first stand-alone boutique in Nevada at The Forum Shops at Caesars in Las Vegas. This is the company’s second freestanding boutique on the West Coast. Founded in London in 1990, L.K.Bennett has since established itself as a modern heritage brand, offering elegant collections of women’s shoes, ready-to-wear, handbags and accessories to meet the lifestyle and requirements of every modern woman. Originally renowned for signature shoe collections favored by celebrities and stylish women alike, L.K.Bennett is now the ultimate destination for affordable luxury, including glamorous footwear, accessories and women’s wear collections. The Las Vegas store—designed by renowned architect Tiziano Vudafieri of Vudafieri Saverino Partners—creates an elegant and welcoming environment that reflects the sophisticated persona of L.K.Bennettʼs collections. Set against a soft powder pink backdrop and delicate beige woodwork, bespoke display units with mirror finish, rich woolen carpets and fifties-inspired furnishings create a relaxed, modern romantic atmosphere. The store at The Forum Shops at Caesars is L.K.Bennettʼs eighth stand-alone store in the U.S. Learn more about the Forum Shops at the Spring into Fashion article on the Fashion Blogger website.

Ghurka American Leather Craftsmanship

We invite you to experience the artistry that has made Ghurka a symbol of superior leather craftsmanship for almost forty years. Enjoy this behind-the-scenes glimpse into Ghurka's exacting design and manufacturing processes, and hear from longtime Ghurka artisans and collectors.

Watch the film at www.GHURKA.com or on Vimeo here: https://vimeo.com/65103910

About Ghurka

Founded in Connecticut in 1975, Ghurka has served as a symbol of superior American leather craftsmanship for almost forty years. Specializing in fine men’s leather accessories ranging from business cases and travel bags to wallets and other small leather goods, Ghurka remains loyal to its heritage of exacting design and trademark manufacturing processes. With new design innovations firmly rooted in Ghurka's heritage and principals, we are committed to addressing the portage needs of our clients with style and grace.

The Ghurka collection is available exclusively at our flagship store at 781 Fifth Avenue in New York City, through the Ghurka website, and at select fine retailers. Ghurka is a subsidiary of Brightwork Brand Holdings Corp. To shop online or learn more about Ghurka please visit http://www.GHURKA.com

Finally Famous Big Sean Fashion

Big Sean the Detroit rapper has a clothing line called Finally Famous, featuring t-shirts, hats, pants, sweatshirts and jackets.  The world had a chance to see the Fall 2013 line, called "The Black Collection," up close and personal earlier this year at the ProjectMVMNT convention in Las Vegas.

Read more:
Big Sean Launches New Clothing Line
Big Sean Debuts New Clothing Line Feb/March 2013

Karma for a Cure 2013

Karma for a Cure is gives 5% of their FULL RETAIL PRICE back to charities everyday! Join in creating positive karma by being a Philanthropic Fashionista!

Neon Pink: Perfect for our Beach Babes!

Leotard's that look fierce from Day to Night!

Breezy Open Back for Warm Summer Winds!

Men and women are encouraged to visit karmaforacure.com to see the latest tees added to the collection donating to non-profits.