Credit Crunch
Biggest Headline of 2009: Closure of Luella and Christian Lacroix
The recession has unfortunately been an ongoing tale in the world over the past few years. There have been many victims in the fashion world, but this year the two which have stood out for me are Christian Lacroix and Luella. Lacroix has been battling with his couture house for some time, but with so much love for the French designer it seemed likely that a backer would emerge.
Fab Flash: Mulberry Reports An Increase in Sales
Whilst much of the world is still panicking about the recession, one British company is enjoying a dramatic increase in the run up to Christmas. Mulberry may not have won anything at last night's British Fashion Awards, but they have just announced a 16% hike in sales in the first half of the year.
What's more, Mulberry also reported UK retail sales for the 10 weeks to December 5 were up 46% compared with 2008.
Fab Flash: Christian Lacroix Fails To Find Buyer
Back in May, news broke that French couture house Christian Lacroix had filed for bankruptcy and now, more than six months later, it has still failed to find a buyer. Lacroix and it's existing owner the Falic group have been in court today in attempt to rescue the company from administration. The court approved a restructuring plan which will see the workforce cut from 110 to just ten.
Beauty Bargain Look-a-Likes For Less!
I just love it when I find a good bargain, especially on beauty products during the expensive holiday season. My good pal, BellaSugar US is also a fan of scouting out deals and she's found quite a few high street or chemist products that look just like designer ones!
So when I saw these amazing Treaclemoon Bath and Shower Gels that sell for £2.89, I was so excited, as they have an uncanny resemblance in both their fragrances and packaging to the Philosopy versions that sell for £13.60.
Breaking News: Luella is No More
I unfortunately have to break some very sad news to you as one of London's best loved fashion labels, Luella, is no more. The announcement came today as WWD revealed that the long term investor Club 21 have walked away from the design house.
According to a statement, VSQ Limited who operated the Luella business have reluctantly “taken the decision not to invest further in its relationship with Luella Bartley Limited.” Bartley commented, "This is a very disappointing situation for everyone involved with the brand…I very much appreciate the support that VSQ has given me, but it is upsetting not to be able to protect jobs in this difficult economic climate.
Fab Flash: New Look Report Sales Increase
Woohoo! Some good news amongst all the doom and gloom of the current financial climate. One of my favourite High Street stores, New Look, has just reported an increase in sales by 1.4%.
Fab Flash: Christian LaCroix Files for Bankruptcy
Another sad story in the fashion industry this morning as one of France's biggest names announces financial trouble. Christian Lacroix has reportedly filed for voluntary bankruptcy in an attempt to protect the company from creditors. The current economic crisis and company expansion has been blamed for the situation.
Should Spas Lower Their Prices?
Once upon a time, spas used to be a therapeutic haven for the tired, stressed, (sure OK) and spoiled, but they were simple ways to indulge the mind and body in a little relaxation.
However, over the past decade or so, they have become a playground for those only who can afford extravagance. Long gone are the days of a reasonably priced manicure, pedicure or even a shoulder massage.
Fab Blab: Alber Elbaz
Last week Lanvin opened a womenswear store in London and Alber Elbaz used the event to pamper the ladies. Today Alber has spoken about the importance of luxury treats, despite the recession, particularly red lipstick. He said, "But, you know, it's almost like that moment when someone is told they have a disease.
Fab Flash: Lauren Conrad Clothing Line Is Suspended
It's all change for Lauren Conrad this year as she finishes shooting her final series of The Hills.
Yesterday it was announced that this wasn't the only thing coming to an end as her clothing line grinds to a halt. Lauren has been designing under her own name since Autumn 2007, but it seems the economic climate has affected its production.
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