This was my last day at the beach, probably until I return to Mexico next fall. I am New York bound this week. One thing I can tell you for certain; bathing suits have infiltrated my psyche in Cabo San Lucas. There are more swim stores here than Lingerie Boutiques (of which there are almost none). The jamboree of vibrant color playing pool and seaside here truly raises the volume. … Read More
In the nascent days of my retail career, I had a brilliant mentor who guided me through my basic training. I credit much of my success as a merchant to his vision and expectations. One lesson that has never left me, particularly as I rose to management positions, is that excellence in merchandising depended on a combination of Picasso and Einstein. One needed vision as well as sterling analytical skills. … Read More
Who is the Jane Woolrich bride? At first glance these exquisite lingerie pieces, all handcrafted in Jane’s atelier in the English countryside, might make you think of the traditional wedding trousseau. And, without a doubt they could easily be one of those special items packed away in a steamer trunk, about to make the honeymoon trip across the Atlantic at the turn of the century. But, look closer. In fact, … Read More
The Art Nouveau movement was unique. It’s influence permeated every aspect of contemporary culture in its day: architecture, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, furniature, lighting, graphics; just to name a few. Combining flowing designs with organic forms and geometric contours, this prolific period changed the face of art history. Seeking to elevate decorative art to fine design, excellence in workmanship was a priority. It was a visual gamechanger and became the … Read More
There are certain bras that have their day in the sun and then there are those that are forever remembered for their impact on the lingerie industry. In the process of writing a piece on the curvy business for the July issue of Creations, I asked Dan Koch, owner of the iconic Town Shop in NYC the following question: “Dan, in your opinion, what was the best selling bra in … Read More
We are particularly pleased to announce that Ivette Bridal, the Spanish based wedding lingerie company has joined our Lingerie Briefs Spotlight partnership. I was introduced to this luxury brand last fall when the Valens group showed me this beautiful product. Designed and produced in Ivette’s Spanish atelier and constructed with the finest European materials, each piece is an intimate treasure. We believe that they fit seamlessly into our Spotlight … Read More
I’ve been doing a lot of writing lately about the surge in curvy and plus size intimates, and I will continue this trend, because frankly, a great deal of the innovation in the market is surfacing from this venue. But today, I want to focus on another consumer need, currently neglected by the fast volume business predators unwilling to nurture and savor a very important niche in the Lingerie business, … Read More