By ELLEN LEWIS
Nothing has changed and everything is changing. The NY Curve Intimate Apparel show was, from what I understand from many of the brands to whom I spoke, with a few exceptions, a success. Of note, from the buyers, the entire vibe was much better, with meaningful seminars, a brand speed dating event that allowed merchants 5 minute intervals with new vendors, and a Concepts lounge that not only gave some smaller brands … Read More
Silent Arrow
Seasonal trends, as we know them, are over. That is not to say, that there are not design messages. It’s simply that these messages overlap, moving fluidly between key intimate and RTW classifications; blurring boundaries. Leggings become pants, Robes become jackets, Bodysuits and bras become blouses. And Pajamas go everywhere. Concepts Paris calls this Hybrid dressing. It is a perfect definition of the evolution (revolution) occurring in a woman’s wardrobe. Mixing design elements, … Read More
After a 40 + year career in merchandising, you can imagine that I have been to more trade shows than I care to count. Both internationally and here in the USA, I have attended these expositions in the role of retailer, product developer and as a manufacturer presenting product. There have been times that I arrived at the purview wondering why I came: overwhelmed with projects back home, wallet tight, trends seemingly irrelevant to my … Read More
By ALI CUDBY
There are many great reasons to visit the Paris Salon De La Lingerie. Of course, Paris is an inspiration in itself.
Whether the weather is blue skies, typical January gray, or the occasional – and unexpected – snow (I’m looking at YOU, 2013) the city’s romantic air always engages a lingerie-friendly mindset.
This year, thousands of buyers will descend on the Porte de Versailles (last year more than 16,000 of them) … Read More
I have been a part of the Intimate Apparel Industry for 30 years and worn many hats: Retailer, Merchandiser, Brand and Sale’s Director. The one lesson I have learned that trumps all is the critical importance of fabric sourcing and development when securing the integrity of the Lingerie product. Completely oblivious during my buying days; intent on fashion and margin, I did not grasp the complexity of the piece good markets until I began to … Read More
By Ali Cudby
All of a sudden, CURVExpo, the American lingerie trade show, is upon us! Where did summer go?
Retailers are busy making appointments and considering strategies for surviving New York in August without melting.
Vendors have made their last minute adjustments to samples, finalized line sheets and are now focused on making sure the product fits the models (and burning the sage in hopes that those models show up, looking just like they … Read More
By Ali Cudby In a few short weeks the Spring/Summer 2015 trades shows will begin, starting in Paris, with Mode City and Interfilière, before crossing the pond to the USA’s Curvexpo lingerie trade shows. Recently I got a sneak peek at what’s to come, and it’s hot as summer in New York. 
The Paris shows will be highlighting American and Canadian lingerie brands, so this is an ideal year for North American players to … Read More
