“Each bra in the [Empower Em Collection] is named after a woman Kelly personally knows that has either survived breast cancer or who has fought to the end with her dignity intact.”

There’s been a lot of interest in post-mastectomy activewear recently and I’ve personally been taking a lot of calls from consumer magazines asking us what’s new and innovative in the market right now. Luckily, Kelly Dooley of BodyRock Sport has created and will debut her new Empower Em Collection at CURVENY next week.

The Empower Em Collection is BodyRock’s first mastectomy bra collection and a true labor of love for Kelly. The idea for the collection first came to Kelly during an event she put on in 2010 to raise money for breast cancer awareness. At the event, she met women who had survived breast cancer and they all shared with Kelly how disempowered they all felt having to buy “boring, old mastectomy bra[s]” after enduring such a terrible experience with breast cancer.

With this knowledge, Kelly set out to create a new collection for breast cancers survivors that was beautiful as it was functional. Kelly even hired one of the breast cancer survivors to help her do product research and development.

The result is the Empower Em Collection – five bras designed as the world’s first fashionable and functional mastectomy sports bras.

Each bra in the collection is named after a woman Kelly personally knows that has either survived breast cancer or who has fought to the end with her dignity intact.

“With six patterns to choose from, each bra has the functionality that a mastectomy bra must contain, including soft elastic for comfort, a front zipper, molded cups, and slits for silicone inserts,” explained Kelly. “Whether you a leopard lover or like to stick to solids, the goal is simple: to make you feel beautiful because you or someone you know is a breast cancer survivor.”

Additionally, each bra has a logo plate that says “I am Empowered”.

“As women, we must stick together and support each other, as breast cancer could happen to any of us. That’s why we decided to partner with American Cancer Society. For each mastectomy bra that is purchased, we will be donating one to ACS for women in need. This is truly a collection of Empowerment Bras, all designed with love by women for women.”

See the Empower Em Collection

Want to see the collection in person? Visit Kelly at CURVENY next week from Feb 21st – 23rd at booth #106. Email Kelly to set up an appointment: kelly@bodyrocksport.com

For Wholesale Inquiries

Contact Kelly at kelly@bodyrocksport.com

The Collection

THE CAROL MASTECTOMY BRA
The Carol Bra is part of The Empower ‘em Collection, the world’s first equally fashionable and functional mastectomy bra specifically designed to empower women whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer

THE DETAILS

Front: Adjustable straps; metallic gold zipper with model fabric panel and velcro dot for easy closure and optimal comfort; molded cups; slits for silicone inserts; BodyRock logo plate that declares “I am empowered”

Back: Straight Straps

Fabric: 92% Supplex; 8% spandex

Impact: Mid-to-High

Sizes: XS – XL

THE COLEEN MASTECTOMY BRA
The Coleen Bra is part of The Empower ‘em Collection, the world’s first equally fashionable and functional mastectomy bra specifically designed to empower women whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer.

THE DETAILS

Front: Adjustable straps; metallic gold zipper with model fabric panel and velcro dot for easy closure and optimal comfort; molded cups; slits for silicone inserts; BodyRock logo plate that says “I am empowered”

Back: Straight back adjustable straps

Fabric: 92% nylon; 8% spandex

Impact: Mid-to-High

SIZES: XS – XL

THE DOT MASTECTOMY BRA
The Dot Bra is part of The Empower ‘em Collection, which is specifically designed to empower the lives of women who have been impacted by breast cancer. Comes with luxe Panacea bag

THE DETAILS

Front: Metallic silver zipper with modest fabric panel and velcro dot for easy closure and optimal comfort; molded cups; slits for silicone inserts, BodyRock logo plate that says “I am empowered”

Back: Razorback

Fabric: 92% nylon; 8% spandex

Impact: Mid-to-High

SIZES: XS – XL

THE MICHELLE MASTECTOMY BRA
The Michelle Bra is part of The Empower ‘em Collection, which is specifically designed to empower the lives of women who have been impacted by breast cancer. Comes with luxe Panacea bag

THE DETAILS

Front: Metallic silver zipper with model fabric panel and velcro dot for easy closure and optimal comfort; molded cups; slits for silicone inserts; BodyRock logo plate that says “I am empowered.”

Back: Razorback

Fabric: 92% Nylon; 8% Spandex

Impact: Mid-to-High

SIZES: XS – XL

THE NATALIE MASTECTOMY BRA
The Natalie Bra is part of The Empower ‘em Collection, which is specifically designed to empower the lives of women who have been impacted by breast cancer. Comes with luxe Panacea bag

THE DETAILS

Front: Metallic gold zipper with model fabric panel and velcro dot for easy closure and optimal comfort; molded cups; slits for silicone inserts; BodyRock logo plates that says “I am empowered.”

Back: Razorback

Fabric: 92% Nylon; 8% Spandex

Impact: Mid-to-High

Other Inquiries

For press inquiries, please contact CLD PR
For Stylist Pulls: Caity@CLDstylehouse.com
For Media Inquiries: Kate@CLDstylehouse.com
1206 Maple Ave
Suite 1050 Bendix Bldg
LA, CA 90015
213-765-0462 (office)
www.CLDstylehouse.com

Sportswear brand Freya Active is delighted to announce it has partnered with England Netball.  The UK’s leading sports bra brands Freya Active reveal they were honored to be approached by England Netball to become an official partner. 

Freya Active has been awarded “Official Sports Bra Supplier” to the England Netball Squad who are FastNet World Champions, as well as the Senior National squads and Superleague squads.  Moreover, Freya Active will be given presence at all England Netball events and feature on the England Netball Squad kit with Freya Active branding, all of which is played live on Sky Sports.
 
Joanna Adams, Head of Marketing and Commercial at England Netball said; “We’re very excited to have Freya Active onboard.  They are an established sports brand with great presence so we can’t wait to see how the partnership develops.  England Netball has a number of key events taking place in the future, with the Commonwealth Games and World Netball Championships so we believe there is going to be increased loyalty for the sport as well as new interest.”
 
Since Freya launched its sportswear arm in 2008, “Freya Active has gone from strength to strength offering innovative non compression, bust separation sports bras with unrivalled fit, support and comfort up to an H cup. Freya Active believes in the importance of wearing a sports bra during exercise and hopes that partnering with England Netball will help educate consumers about the importance of maintaining good breast health during sport,” said the company.
  
Ann Marie Manley, Head of Marketing at Freya Active added: “In order to perform well in sport and exercise, sports bras are incredibly important and we are working incredibly hard to get this message across.  We are absolutely thrilled to have partnered with England Netball.  Netball is energetic, edgy and feminine so it is a great match for Freya Active.  The England Netball Squad are absolutely fantastic and the sport does not always get the recognition it deserves so we are really looking forward to working with them in order to raise their profile as well as our own.”
 
Moreover, Freya Active will also be involved in Back To Netball a scheme promoted by England Netball.  Back To Netball provides a gentle introduction to netball for female players over sixteen years of age.  With many women having played netball from a young age, Back To Netball encourages those who are no longer playing, to get active again and participate in sport.  Back To Netball currently takes place all over the UK, meaning every region is able to take part.
 
For more information about Freya Active visit www.freyalingerie.com
 

Next week, buyers visiting New York City get a chance to see the work of Miami-based lingerie designer, Priscilla Codinach at the Lingerie Designer Showcase. Her new SS12 collection, Spring Awakening, is a colorful and energetic offering of basics, bodysuits, teddies and jumpers.

Most recently, Priscilla showcased her collection at the Anti-Valentine’s Day Massacre Fashion Show hosted by Devorah Rose in NYC. Models walked up and down the converted bowling lanes to a great crowd.

Meet the Designer

Priscilla Jade Lingerie will be exhibiting at the Lingerie Designer Showcase. Make an appointment with the designer at: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/priscilla-jade-lingerie/

The Collection

Valentina Bodysuit
Stretch tulle bodysuit. Stretch charmuse v front and back opening. Side hip bow detail. 100% Cotton lining.

Hera Robe
Stretch tulle robe. Stretch charmuse trimming and rouged shoulders. Tie at waist.

Cathena Thong
Stretch charmuse thong. Stretch tulle front and bow detail. Lace trim. 100% Cotton Lining.

Pomona Panty
Stretch charmuse thong. Stretch tulle front and bow detail. Lace trim. 100% Cotton Lining.

Vania Bra
Stretch charmuse underwire bra. Adjustable straps. Hook and eye back closure. Stretch tulle, bow detail.

Primrose Bralette and Ceinture
Stretch charmuse bralette with underbust no slip elastic. Adjustable straps. Black lace detail. Stretch charmuse chevron stitched girdle. Exposed zipper back closure. Black tulle waist with black lace detail.

Serena Teddy
Stretch tulle teddy. Stretch charmuse V-front and racer back with shoulder bow detail. Stretch charmuse scoop panty with bow detail. 100% Cotton lining.

Serena Jumper
Teal stretch tulle jumper with stretch charmuse detail. Adjustable straps. Elastic waist.

Meet the Designer

To visit Priscilla in person, please stop by the Designer Showcase from Feb 21st – 23rd at the AKA hotel (44th street, between 6th and 7th avenues). You can also make a direct appointment with her at: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/priscilla-jade-lingerie/

Andrea Billard

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 710
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/andrea-billard/

About
Andrea Billard – Haute Lingerie is an independent luxury lingerie brand based in England. Launched in 2009 by Creative Director Andrea Billard, it has attracted extensive media interest in the UK, US, Middle East, South America and Europe.

Andrea Billard is part of a new wave of British design talent. Her mission is to create beautiful, modern lingerie which has a sensual feel and brings out the beauty and power in every woman.

Andrea Billard is represented by the Terreblue Trading company at the Designer Showcase.

Visit Andrea Billard

Please email Stacy Shakoor at stacy@terrebleu.com to make an appointment or use the online form here: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/andrea-billard/

Ann Vogue

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 704
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/ann-vogue/

About
Ann Vogue is a NY-based design house specializing in exclusive high-end sleepwear. Glamour, seduction and refined elegance are at the heart of all that we create, accompanied by extraordinary craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Perfect for special occasions like weddings and anniversaries, the Ann Vogue collection was created to transform every night into an enchanting experience. Our designs are ageless, seasonless, and have been referred to as unique works of art. Our pieces will never go out of style and will continue to be a treasured part of your wardrobe for years to come.

We utilize only the finest silks, French laces and ribbons. Each garment is cut and sewn separately in a lovely sample room in the heart of Manhattan. Only a few pieces of each style are produced to maintain the exclusivity of this collection. We also cater to personal orders if a client would like to have a garment made in their specific size or style.

Visit Ann Vogue

Please email Asi Efros at ann@annvogue.com or use the online form here to make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/ann-vogue/

Clare Bare Lingerie

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 705
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/clare-bare-lingerie/

About
Clare Bare is a Brooklyn based designer specializing in fashion forward eco-friendly lingerie made from organic cotton, bamboo jersey, and vintage fabric. Clare creates garments that are structured to flatter your body in a natural way without the use of constrictive hardware, and each piece is as comfortable as it is sexy. All of her pieces are made in house with the assistance of local creatives, using sustainable practices and natural and handmade dyes. The designs range everywhere in between fashion and function, and offer something for everyone. Soft cup bralettes, bodysuits, panties, and garter belts are created with a modern take on vintage styling.

During her years at Parsons, Clare collected and drew inspiration from vintage textiles that eventually piled so high that there was no more space to work. Soon after, “Clare Bare” was conceived out of the need to give her piles of fabric a purpose, and to make good use out of a clever name. Coming from a background of mosaic art has led Clare to create very tactile pieces mixed with unexpected colors and textures, and the joy that comes from the physical process of creating emanates from each Clare Bare piece. What started as an act of love is now an ever growing business fueled by passion and created for passionate consumers.

Make an Appointment

Contact the designer directly at clare@clarebare.com or 646.221.6891 or use this online form: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/clare-bare-lingerie/

Dottie’s Delights

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 410
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/dotties-delights/

About
Dottie’s Delights strives to support female curves in all senses of the word by providing high-end lingerie that focuses on attractive design, fit, and function with an emphasis on the quality attention to detail and technique found in mid-century vintage foundations.

Named after her grandmother, Dottie’s Delights is the work of designer Stephanie Kuhr, who has always had an affinity for the vintage aesthetic. She graduated from junior high in a 1930′s ribbon dress and never looked back!

She is particularly influenced by the sexy, confident, and empowered women of burlesque and pin-up — both from modern and past eras. The utmost attention is paid to high quality and authentic workmanship, trying to reproduce as close as possible the craft that was put into mid-century clothing.

Dottie’s Delights caters to a custom clientele ranging from discerning brides, performance artists, and vintage aesthetic connoisseurs, but also produces a full collection each season in a size range of XS-2X and 32-36B-DD.

We love all lingerie, but our specialty is shapewear/foundation wear. We pride ourselves in pieces that not only look great, but are functional and offer heavy duty support, too! Vintage style shapewear is like a sweet little hug of support and a your best friend assuring you that you look great!

Make an Appointment

Email Stephanie directly at dottiesdelights@gmail.com or use this online form: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/dotties-delights/

Fred And Ginger

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 710
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/fred-ginger/

About
Victoria Holt, the designer behind Fred & Ginger, has been working in the fashion industry for many years and enjoyed great acknowledgment as senior designer for the international fashion house, Jenny Packham, London.

Bringing her flair and expertise to Fred & Ginger, Victoria produces a unique brand that reflects the elegance and sophistication of a bygone age, to a market that appreciates luxury with an elegant and contemporary design edge.

At the Designer Showcase, Fred & Ginger will present Arabian Delight, their new Autumn Winter 2012 collection.

“Inspired by one of the oldest and most mysteries tales, our AW12 collection takes inspiration from the classic tale Arabian Nights which tells the story of un-requited love. We have named our most glamour collection to date Arabian Delight since we believe that happy endings don’t just happen in fairy tales.”

Fred and Ginger is represented by the Terreblue Trading company at the Designer Showcase.

Visit Fred & Ginger

Please email Stacy Shakoor at stacy@terrebleu.com to make an appointment or use the online form here: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/fred-ginger/

Good Night Gilda

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 710
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/good-night-gilda/

About
Whitney Galitz is the founder and creative force behind Good Night Gilda, a fine lingerie brand specializing in full-cup sizes. Whitney has always had a love for lingerie and an eye for detail. Coming from a theater background in costume design, she worked extensively in the Entertainment industry for seven years, honing her skills in garment construction, design, and styling. After several years of dressing celebrities and gaining a vast knowledge of the retail industry, she decided to start her own lingerie line focusing on full-cup sizes. Whitney noticed a real lack of attention to this part of the market, she being her own customer, and so Good Night Gilda was born.

Since the brand’s debut in 2011, GNG has found it’s own place in the fast growing industry of Intimate apparel. Whitney’s desire to bring the drama of costumes to the Intimates world and make fine lingerie that supports larger busts and flatters many body types has paid off. Since it’s launch, Good Night Gilda has gotten regular press and attention from major fashion blogs, trades, as well as fashion magazines.

Her main motivation for starting the line was being her own customer and constantly being disappointed by the lack of personality when shopping for lingerie. Having a lifelong attraction for old Hollywood glamour and the icons of that era, Whitney knew that GNG would carry on the graceful silhouettes, timeless appeal, and beautiful textiles that captured her heart in old Hollywood and now make Good Night Gilda a unique and cutting edge line.

All GNG lingerie is designed and produced in Los Angeles. Each garment is made with luxurious fabrics, quality trim, and above all, love!

Make an Appointment

Contact Whitney directly at sales@goodnightgilda.com or use this online form: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/good-night-gilda/

Ombrato Sleepwear

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 704
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/ombrato-lingerie-and-sleepwear/

About
Ombrato is based in New York and dedicated to creating stylish, quality sleepwear and loungewear for modern women. Today’s woman likes to feel both chic and at ease in her clothing. She leads a busy life and sleep and time to relax is crucial to her well-being. Ombrato offers sleepwear and loungewear that reflects her lifestyle: practical yet stylish and unique, elegant and comfortable in high quality fabrics.

Ombrato, which means “take it easy” in a Japanese dialect, is an apt name for a company whose mission is to help a woman leave behind the hustle of her daily life and make her feel special, beautiful and relaxed. All of our garments are manufactured in New York City.

Make an Appointment

Contact the designer directly at: shirokawa@ombrato.com or use this online form: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/ombrato-lingerie-and-sleepwear/

Priscilla Jade Lingerie

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 302
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/priscilla-jade-lingerie/

About
Priscilla Jade, Inc. is committed to exceeding the expectations of our customers, buyers and retailers by providing exceptional and superior intimate apparel for women of every lifestyle and stature.

Priscilla Codinach is the company’s owner and head designer. Her fascination with 1940’s cinema and classic retro style inspires her creations. She incorporates theatrical elements and costume into each collection.

Born and partially raised a southern Belle, Priscilla acquired the skills of home sewing and hand crafts from her grandmother. Secretly awaiting the rite of passage of being able to wear lingerie, Priscilla’s playful and enticing demeanor surfaced. While attending high school in Miami, Fl her love for dance branched out into costume design. Upon her graduation in 2002 she was awarded Best Costume Design. After high school she attended Miami International University of Art and Design earning her a Degree in Fashion Design. She is currently studying at Florida International University for a Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts specializing in Costume Design for Theatre.

Since February of 2006 Priscilla Codinach has self promoted her company by having fashion shows at local Miami hotspots. Priscilla Jade, Inc. will debut new collections and continue to reach potential customers.

Make an Appointment

Contact Priscilla directly at pmcodinach@gmail.com or use this online form: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/priscilla-jade-lingerie/

Toad Lillie

Where: Lingerie Designer Showcase, AKA Hotel 123 West 44th St
Suite Number: 410
When: Feb 21st – 23rd from 9am – 7pm
Make an appointment: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/toad-lillie/

About
In the spirit of shameless glamour, Toad Lillie empowers you to embrace your inner seductress and bring him to his knees!

Like it’s namesake flower, Toad Lillie is a little gem of a lingerie label, once discovered is truly unforgettable. Every woman is a work of art, and Toad Lillie celebrates this by creating lingerie that is equally unique.

Exquisite bras and panties, created exclusively in silk, encourage you to express yourself and bring out your inner Femme Fatale.

A rare treat, Toad Lillie expertly hand crafts each piece using couture construction techniques, ensuring each feels as luscious as it looks. Sexy should feel scrumptious! This means making lingerie in a way that is just not done anymore. Bras and panties that are true masterpieces, with silk lined cups and gussets, french seaming, the narrowest of rolled hems, hand appliques, and gorgeously finished stitching. They’re as beautiful turned out on your bedroom floor as they are hugging the curves of the work of art that is you!

Oscar Wilde once said, “One can either be a work of art, or wear a work of art.” I say, why choose? You can have it all!

Make an Appointment

Contact Laurie directly at laurie@toadlillie.com or use this online form: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/toad-lillie/

“We have named our most glamour collection to date Arabian Delight since we believe that happy endings don’t just happen in fairy tales.”

In just a few days, buyers visiting New York City will have a chance to see Fred & Ginger’s latest collection – Arabian Delight – at the Lingerie Designer Showcase from Feb 21 – 23, 2012. We can’t keep these images to ourselves, so here’s a sneak peak at what you can see in person.

Described as, “…inspired by one of the oldest and most mysteries tales, our AW12 collection takes inspiration from the classic tale Arabian Nights which tells the story of un-requited love,” explained Victoria Holt, the designer behind Fred & Ginger. “We have named our most glamour collection to date Arabian Delight since we believe that happy endings don’t just happen in fairy tales.”

About Victoria

Victoria Holt has been working in the fashion industry for many years and enjoyed great acknowledgment as senior designer for the international fashion house, Jenny Packham, London.

Bringing her flair and expertise to Fred & Ginger, Victoria produces a unique brand that reflects the elegance and sophistication of a bygone age, to a market that appreciates luxury with an elegant and contemporary design edge.

Fred & Ginger is stocked amongst some of the world’s most prestigious stores including Selfridges, Fenwick, Coco de Mer, Apartment C and Bordello in the UK and in boutiques in Australia , North America and the Middle East.

See the Collection

Stop by or make an appointment to see Fred & Ginger at the Lingerie Designer Showcase:

http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/fred-ginger/

The complete collection is designed in London and manufactured in the UK to the highest standards and quality. Fred and Ginger is represented by the Terreblue Trading company at the Designer Showcase.

“Toad Lillie is made to order and hand crafted exclusively in silk using couture construction techniques, ensuring that each silky smooth treat feels as luscious as it looks,” Laurie Shapiro, Designer

Toad Lillie’s new Bridal collection, Bonbon, is a delectable alternative to bridal white with it’s rich creams and icy silvers. Laurie Shapiro, Toad Lille’s designer sent us some images from this new made-to-order collection that we had to share with our readers.

Playful ruffles, dramatic bows, sheers as fine as spun sugar, and glamorous bias cut silks make the wearer look good enough to eat. The hand painted chemise and camisole, with a decadent metallic gold floral motif, is the icing on the cake!

“Toad Lillie is made to order and hand crafted exclusively in silk using couture construction techniques, ensuring that each silky smooth treat feels as luscious as it looks. Sexy should feel sensational! This means making lingerie in a way that cannot be replicated in a factory,” said Laurie. “These are exquisite intimates that are true masterpieces with silk lined cups and gussets, french seaming, the narrowest of rolled hems, hand appliques, and gorgeously finished stitching. They are equally beautiful turned out on your bedroom floor as they are hugging your delicious curves. Bon Appetit!”

Meet Toad Lillie

Laurie will be showcasing Toad Lille at next week’s Lingerie Designer Showcase at the AKA Hotel from Feb 21st – 23rd.

To schedule an appointment, please visit: http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/toad-lillie/

In just a few days time Moda Lingerie & Swimwear will see the arrival of a diverse collection of emerging and well-known intimate apparel labels at the INVISTA Lycra® beauty sponsored event, taking place on 19-21 February at the NEC Birmingham.

The line-up of newcomers at this must-attend show include the likes of Jantzen, Piha Swimwear, I.D Sarrieri, Max Holliday, Lucile, S’No Queen, Shirley of Hollywood, The Natural, Gerbe, Sonata Lingerie, Nicola Jane and Rago Shapewear, all with high quality designed products to cater to many tastes.

“The fast-approaching show will see a greater number of brands showcasing superb products with large appeal for retailers.”

Australian swimwear label Janzten, known for its love of 1950s glamour and exquisite quality, delivers a bold and beautiful collection for its Moda debut, whilst New Zealand brand Piha Swimwear, the younger sister line from bestseller Moontide, brings tropical sunshine to the new season event. Meanwhile, Romanian label I.D. Sarrieri, a favourite of many high-profile stars, arrives with sophisticated styles featuring luxe fabrics and intricate crystallised detailing. More collections to see include the first Moda appearance from Max Holliday, part of the Damaris and Mimi Holliday collective, with a vibrant range of silk and satin men’s boxer shorts. Heritage lingerie label Lucile will offer luxurious wear-forever pieces created from hand-cut lace and georgette fabrics.

The fast-approaching show will see a greater number of brands showcasing superb products with large appeal for retailers. Designer thermal label S’No Queen will be in attendance with super soft thermal après skiwear designed to keep wearers warm but still with a glamorous fashion edge. More provocative items will be seen from US brand Shirley of Hollywood, owner of Spanish label Bracli, the original designer of the pearl thong. Canadian label The Natural, makes its Moda debut with an array of accessories to provide solutions for the common dilemma of wearing the correct type of underwear for different outfits. Taking inspiration from Parisian landscapes this season is luxury hosiery label Gerbe with an imaginative collection featuring beautifully embroidered lace styles.

More new signings to look out for include Sonata Lingerie, mastectomy brand Nicola Jane, Rago Shapewear, Scala Shapewear, Scandale, Simone Pérèle and more. The industry’s biggest brands, such as Lejaby, Panache, Aubade, Gossard, Charnos, Lepel, Affinitas, Wacoal, Chantelle, Dirty Pretty Things, Curvy Kate, Kiss Me Deadly, Chantal Thomass, Marlies Dekkers, Fauve, Freya, Eveden, Speedo Sculpture, Moontide, Seaspray, Azura Swimwear, Emma-Jane Lingerie, Bravado Designs, Legwear International, Kunert, Spanx, Miraclesuit, Cyberjammies and Donna Karan Sleepwear are just some of the returning labels to be seen this season.

Moda will host the best autumn/winter 12 collections on 19-21 February at the NEC Birmingham. The UK’s essential fashion trade event will also feature daily fashion and lingerie & swimwear catwalk shows as well as a brand new eveningwear show. The free-to-all visitors seminar programme will include topics such as e-commerce, cash management and trend forecasting. To register for your complimentary ticket and find out more about the latest signings, the events programme and industry news, please visit moda-uk.co.uk.

The company also launched a Facebook page for the US – https://www.facebook.com/CurvyKateUSA

We’ll keep our readers posted as more information comes in and you can visit with Curvy Kate at CURVENY (booth 416) from February 21st to 23rd. Buyers can also meet Lauren, one of Curvy Kate’s former Star-in-A-Bra winner and see the company’s Fall 2012 collection of Curvy Kate D-K cup lingerie.

More details at curvykate.com

“I have a passion for discovering innovative merchandising methods. So, when I spoke to Margo Andros, owner of The Pink Slip in NYC’s Grand Central Terminal, I was impressed by her creative approach to this year’s Valentine’s Day promotion.” – Moira Nelson, Bra La Mode

The Pink Slip, the little lingerie shop in the heart of Grand Central Station, put on a great Valentine’s Day special aimed at making the art of shopping for Valentine’s as easy as possible for men.

The Pink Slip offered 3 simple packages to choose from:

Package 1 – $100 “The Sweetest Thing”
3 pairs of Hanky Panky Panties
Massage candle OR Chocolate Fondue & Booty Parlor Body Topping
4 Nipple Nibblers

Package 2 – $150 “You are my Sunshine”
Levante Thigh Highs
Mimi Rhinestone Pasties
$125 PINK SLIP Gift Card

Package 3 – $200 “Melt with You”
$150 lingerie of choice
Mimi Rhinestone Pasties
3 Nipple Nibblers
$30 PINK SLIP Gift Card

Moira Nelson of Bra La Mode said of the holiday special, “I have a passion for discovering innovative merchandising methods. So, when I spoke to Margo Andros, owner of The Pink Slip in NYC’s Grand Central Terminal, I was impressed by her creative approach to this year’s Valentine’s Day promotion.”

It’s a great approach and we hope The Pink Slip had a great response from their Valentine’s Promotion.

For more information on The Pink Slip, please visit http://www.thepinkslip.com/ or their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ThePinkSlip

C’est cela l’amour, tout donner, tout sacrifier sans espoir de retour. 
That’s love: giving everything, sacrificing all without hope of returns. 

- Albert Camus

If the French know anything, they know how to love. They know how to say it, sing it, and feel it. Not that other cultures don’t, but the French have mastered the language of love because they understand the emotion of those four letters and the romance in the spaces between.

Paris is a city swept up in the exaltation of love. Whether it’s the tingle of new love, the happiness of an enduring love, or the suffering of a broken heart, the French welcome the drama. It’s always about love. Every. Day. Of. The. Week.

French Cartesian logic, with its appreciation for rational thought and calculated step-by-step approach to problem solving, doesn’t lend itself to going with the flow, or taking risks, yet the French hardly play it safe when it comes to the Game of Love, preferring a no-holds-barred approach. The stakes are high. Within weeks of the first day of school, children are chanting “ils sont amoureux” meaning two young souls have found each other. Phew. Just in time.

Exaggerated drama? Too much emphasis on finding love? Love naysayers might suggest that independence is the secret to one’s happiness. Perhaps, but the words of men and women of letters stress the vitality of love for survival. Molière suggests, To live without love is not to properly live.

George Sand goes as far to say, There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved.

For the French, the pursuit of love is an all-consuming passion, and following one’s heart is a noble quest. Everyone recognizes that the chance for love must be seized. A late lunch, a lingering look, a prolonged kiss, are understandable reasons for running late, and arguably more acceptable than “I got stuck in traffic.”

Like dreams, love offers possibility. It means we are alive. There is someone out there for everyone. Each dream finds at last its form; There is a drink for every thirst, and love for every heart. 
- Gustave Flaubert

Enjoy the love-inspired window displays of this virtual walk through the streets of Paris – and see where your heart takes you…

Kathryn Kemp-Griffin is the President of Pink Bra Bazaar, a lingerie charity dedicated to raising money and awareness for breast cancer. Kathryn also organizes exclusive lingerie tours in Paris as an unusual alternative to the regular tourist attractions. A Toronto native and a Princeton graduate, Kathryn lives with her husband, five children, two cats and a dog in a 500-year-old mill outside of Paris.
Email: kathryn@pinkbrabazaar.org

Links

www.pinkbrabazaar.org