McPete Sez Newsletter


	February 1, 2012 Issue #306 the mcPete Sez Lingerie Newsletter & Women's Wear Journal Intimate Apparel Sleepwear-Daywear-Foundations-Loungewear-Hosiery- Lingerie-Swimwear-Dancewear-Clubwear Ready-to-Wear *********************************************** To View previous issues, go to = Archives For Shows around the World, go to = Shows For Advertising Click Here Stop SOPA & PIPA On January 18, 2012, Wikipedia along with an estimated 7000 other smaller websites blacked out in protest of two bills in the United States House of Representatives and US Senate. SOPA, "Stop Online Piracy Act" and PIPA "Protect IP Act" are efforts to stop copyright infringement committed by foreign web sites. But the way these two bills are worded they actually infringe free expression on the internet. If these bills are passed, the government can shut down many of our websites, blogs, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube along with other social networking sites. Directly from Wikipedia's website: Imagine a World Without Free Knowledge For over a decade, we have spent millions of hours building the largest encyclopedia in human history. Right now, the U.S. Congress is considering legislation that could fatally damage the free and open Internet. For 24 hours, to raise awareness, we are blacking out Wikipedia. Learn more. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:SOPA_initiative/Learn_more From Google's website: Millions of Americans oppose SOPA and PIPA because these bills would censor the Internet and slow economic growth in the U.S. Two bills before Congress, known as the Protect IP Act (PIPA) in the Senate and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) in the House, would censor the Web and impose harmful regulations on American business. Millions of Internet users and entrepreneurs already oppose SOPA and PIPA. The Senate will begin voting on January 24th. Please let them know how you feel. Sign this petition urging Congress to vote NO on PIPA and SOPA before it is too late. https://www.google.com/landing/takeaction/ Over seven million people signed petitions against the bills. The bills have been postponed, but not dropped. Please let congress know how you feel by signing a letter urging them to vote NO on PIPA and SOPA before it is too late. You can go to http://americancensorship.org/ and fill out the form. Or you can contact your local representative and tell them you oppose SOPA and PIPA along with any similar legislation. 9/24 Watch Tia Lyn's NY Fashion Show with beautiful models of ALL SIZES! Drought to Hurt US Organic Cotton Dry conditions in some US states are set to hit the country's organic cotton harvests, according to research carried out by the Organic Trade Association. The study, which was funded by Cotton Incorporated, found that while 2011 saw the largest number of acres planted since 1999, harvested acres and bales are expected to be down by 39% and 45%, respectively, due to a drought in the Southern Plains. The extremely dry conditions in Texas have forced farmers to abandon more than 65% of their planted crop in 2011. The survey, released January 26, showed that planted acres were up 36% to reach 11,827 acres in 2010, while bales harvested were up nearly 24%. In 2010, US producers harvested 11,262 acres of organic cotton, representing 95% of their planted acres and yielding some 13,279 bales. A modest acreage gain is forecast for 2012, bringing plantings of organic cotton to 16,406 acres. Another 2% net gain is in the five-year forecast, bringing the total to 16,716 acres. Opportunities for expansion exist in nascent organic cotton growing regions such as North Carolina, which harvested its first crop of organic cotton in 2011. Survey respondents said the cost per acre to grow organic cotton ranged from US$350 to $650, with an average cost per acre of $440. Most reported receiving $1.50 per pound for organic cotton, with prices ranging from as high as $2.40 for organic Pima cotton to a low of $1.35 for one organic upland producer. Fashion Photo Laurie models Mystique Intimates photo by Stephen Cupp of Studio Time Photography If you would like more information about Fashion Photo or would like to be included in the McPete Sez Fashion Photo contact Jerome Hamilton at Studio Time Photography jerome@studiotime.us Priscilla Jade Lingerie Fashion Show by Luis Paredes Priscilla Jade Lingerie will hold her first NY Fashion Show this coming February 14, 2012 at Lucky Strike (660 West 42nd Street) in New York City. Titled, AVM – Anti-Valentines Massacre will be hosted by Devorah Rose in NYC and the fashion show will benefit the Seven Star Animal Sanctuary. This event is also a great preview for everyone that wants to see Priscilla Jade Lingerie in person the upcoming Lingerie Designer Showcase later in February. Tickets are $35 for the AVM Fashion Show and can be purchased here – http://antivalentinesmassacre-efbevent.eventbrite.com/ To see more of Priscilla Jade visit her website at http://www.priscillajadelingerie.com/ Or http://lingeriedesignershowcase.com/priscilla-jade-lingerie/ for details about Priscilla Jade at the Lingerie 6/24 CLICK HERE to watch Risque's Video on YouTube Gas Restored to Textile Factories Pakistan's government is to restore gas supplies to the textile industry in the province of Punjab after a one-month hiatus. According to a notification issued by the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), from the beginning of this week gas will be supplied to the textile industry for two days a week on a rotation basis. Authorities disconnected the gas supply to the region's textile industry just before Christmas, resulting in widespread protests and rallies by factory owners and workers. The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) later vowed to defy the government's gas cut policy. Gohar Ejaz, former chairman of APTMA, says that over 70% of the textile and clothing industry is located in Punjab province and over 10m people depend on it for work. The prolonged gas suspension has badly affected the sector's daily-wage workers, he adds. APTMA's Punjab region chairman Ahsan Bashir claims the industry has already lost US$2bn in exports during the first half of the current fiscal year and it is likely to suffer more if energy supplies to the industry are not improved. The government, meanwhile, says the industries will receive gas for three days a week once the cold weather in the northern part of the country ends next month. A model wearing Fetisso Latex at The International Lingerie Fashion Show, The Rio Hotel, September 2011 Photo by Jerome Hamilton 2/12 Limited Brands Challenges Child Labor Claims US retailer Limited Brands and certification body Fairtrade International have challenged a series of allegations that claim child labor is used on farms in Burkina Faso that grow Fairtrade organic cotton used in Victoria's Secret garments. The latest statements follow a Bloomberg report at the end of last year, which described the life of a 13-year-old girl who was beaten by the farmer she works for on a cotton field in Burkina Faso. The cotton picked by the girl went to factories in other countries where it was made into Victoria's Secret underwear, the report said. However, Limited Brands says Clarisse Kambire, the "young girl" who was at the center of the article, is 21 years old. Also, the retailer claims Kambire does not live or work on a registered organic farm in Burkina Faso, but instead works on a vegetable farm. Additionally, Victorien Kamboule, who was reported to be an organic cotton farmer in the report, does not grow cotton, according to the records of the UNPCB, which registers all cotton farms in Burkina Faso. This is backed up by COCERT, a French certification organization that inspects and monitors organic agricultural production. Kamboule grows vegetables. Fairtrade International has endorsed the claims made by Limited Brands, adding that it traveled with leading UNPCB officials to the village of Benvar in Burkina Faso, where it met with Fairtrade cotton producers and children and families identified in the Bloomberg article. Fairtrade also said it strongly recommends that media adopt child protection methods and a rights-based approach in relation to those they identify as being under the age of 18. Identifying a young person by their first and last names, on issues of grave human rights concern, may put them at "extreme risk" it warned. Bloomberg, however, has stood by its claims and reported that US investigators are conducting a preliminary inquiry into forced child labor used in the program. Bloomberg reported that the birth certificate which cites Kambire's age as 21 is actually the birth certificate of a deceased older sister. It said that Clarisse Kambire adopted the name after her sibling died more than a decade ago. According to Bloomberg, the government's preliminary inquiry is being carried out by the ICE Homeland Security Investigations division, which is part of the Department of Homeland security. It is responsible for enforcing the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, a law which bans the import of goods manufactured by forced labor. Bloomberg also said that under regulations separate from those being examined by homeland security, the US Department of Labor had determined the problem of forced child labor in Burkina Faso's cotton sector was serious enough to ban the fiber from the federal government's procurement system. No Novocain A woman and her husband interrupted their vacation to go to the dentist. "I want a tooth pulled, and I don't want Novocain because I'm in a big hurry," the woman said. "Just extract the tooth as quickly as possible, and we'll be on our way." The dentist was quite impressed. "You're certainly a courageous woman," he said. "Which tooth is it?" The woman turned to her husband and said, "Show him your tooth, dear." This Newsletter is Read by an average 24,000 Readers each month, over 14,000 subscribers. with over 24,000 Hits Per Day Subscribe to our mailing list Page 2 Business and Technology by the Gozooko Guys (Bryan and Karl) BLOG, Blog, Blog Still need more traffic to your website? Are you passionate about what you sell? Well then, blog about what you know. You don’t have to be the next Pulitzer Prize winner. Just write about what you sell and how great it is and why. Talk up trade shows news about your industry and events in your store. Just post. And post frequently. Post your writing to sites like EzineArticles.com and amazines.com and the like. Exposure will drive traffic back to your site. Read other blogs in your industry and comment on them. Often when you comment, you have the option to include the URL to your blog. Place a retweet plug-in from TweetMeme so your readers can share your smart thoughts with the world. (And drive traffic to your store.) Also have guest bloggers. Invite others to post on your site. This will drive more content and more variety as well, drawing in a larger audience. Remember, blog about your passion and not so much about you, and people will keep coming back for more. At Gozooko, the customer always comes first. Our lines of products are customer driven, and our goal is to meet your needs and to help your business grow. As always we welcome your comments and suggestions. We look forward to hearing from you. GozookoGuys@gozooko.com Shirley of Hollywood Releases 2012 Big Book, Upgrades Website Nouveau Hollywood is live with Shirley of Hollywood’s brand new 2012 Big Book. "The catalog is landing with retailers all over the world, and the reaction has been phenomenal," said Eric Schlobohm. Some of the comments from their best customers are: “the best you’ve ever done”, “such fresh new looks”, “who’s the new photographer”. Answers, yes, yes and believe it or not, it's Shirley's same photographer with an entirely new concept for this years’ photo shoot. "We’ve been in this business for 64 years, and you truly can make a good thing better," added Schlobohm. Shirley of Hollywood also expanded their Facebook and Twitter pages, offering a 24/7 place to ask questions and share information. They even have a new insiders club that gives exclusive access to members only discounts and promotions. Video for in-store monitors, and links to YouTube are also available. All new and only for Shirley of Hollywood customers in 2012. About Shirley of Hollywood Shirley of Hollywood is a family owned and operated business located in California. For over 60 years, Shirley of Hollywood Lingerie has produced sexy and romantic styles at reasonable prices. For more information go to www.shirleyofhollywood.com Intimate Graphics by Luis Paredes BodyRock Sport's Love For All Bra The talented team at BodyRock Sport recently sent us images from their latest photoshoot highlighting some items including the gorgeous Love For All Bra. The images are amazing and we wanted to share them with our readers. BodyRock Sport designer and Founder Kelly Dooley will showcase BodyRock at CURVENY including her new Empower ‘em Collection which includes the first post – Mastectomy sports bra. We’ll have more details, photos and an interview with Kelly shortly so stay tuned! Love For All Bra Features Front: V-Neck lined with Volcano Swarovski Crystals and Silver Studs; metallic silver YKK zipper with BRS puller; 1.25 inch elastic band Also available without embellishments Back: Racerback Fabric: (1) Body: 92% Supplex nylon, 8% Lycra (2) Lining: 9% nylon; 10% spandex Impact: High Description: The Love for All Bra is a beautiful floral print that represents and celebrates gay equality because we believe that everyone should have the right to love whomever they want! The volcano Swarovski crystals contain all the colors of the rainbow and are truly beautiful! They add some pop to the bra without being too much. But if you don’t want embellishments, that’s OK! We offer the bra without them as well! Wholesale Inquiries For more information on the Empower ‘Em Collection by BodyRock Sport or Kelly Dooley contact: Leah-Vail Soloff: leah.vail@gmail.com (206.778.1578) www.bodyrocksport.com/ Intimate Graphics is a column by Luis Paredes on what's trending in the Intimate Apparel Industry. His design studio, Seven Hills Multimedia, LLC focuses on the design and communication needs of the Lingerie Industry and publishes The Lingerie Journal, a business resource for Lingerie Retailers. ** The International Lingerie Fashion Show Photos by Jerome Hamilton The International Lingerie Show was held September 19-21, 2011, at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas. Buyers came from all over to shop, see hot products, meet new companies, reconnect with familiar faces and enjoy Las Vegas. The exhibitors left with on a positive note, saying that buyers who traveled from their store in September, were serious shoppers. The next session of the International Lingerie Show will be held March 26-28, 2012, concurrently with the Las Vegas Halloween Show. For more information go to www.spectrade.com video by NandoVision www.nandovision.com Fetish Fantasy Lingerie with Shirley of Hollywood Whip Fetish Fantasy Lingerie with Shirley of Hollywood Whip Fetish Fantasy Lingerie with Shirley of Hollywood Whip Fetish Fantasy Lingerie with Shirley of Hollywood Whip Fetisso Latex Fetisso Latex Fetisso Latex Hilary's Vanity Hilary's Vanity Hilary's Vanity Hilary's Vanity Hilary's Vanity Delicious Sexywear of New York Delicious Sexywear of New York Delicious Sexywear of New York The International Lingerie Fashion Show Continued on page 3 CupCase: A Way to Travel With Bras in Style There’s garment bags for your dresses, jewelry holders for your necklaces and shoe bags for your high heels, but there’s never been an easy way to travel with your bras. CupCase Your Bras, the idea of company owner Erin Wilson, gives women a stylish new way to protect one of the most delicate parts of their wardrobe while on the go. Wilson created the concept after unpacking and donning a wrinkled bra whose crease was visible through her shirt. She was sure there had to be a better way to protect bras while traveling. CupCase, which comes in two sizes – one for A/B cups and one for C/D cups – is shaped similarly to a cupcake and offers a protective barrier for packing three to four bras per case. Each CupCase comes in stylish colors, including purple, hot pink, black and leopard prints. The CupCase can be packed inside a suitcase or carried alone. After packing a CupCase with up to four bras, women can also fit small items, such as jewelry, panties or hair ties, inside. Some women have even used the CupCase as an evening bag. “Whether you’re on your way to the gym or headed on a trip around the world, you don’t want to arrive with stretched, wrinkled, crushed or otherwise damaged bras,” says Wilson. “CupCase offers an affordable solution to protect these items we cherish and for which we often pay a hefty price. We want our bras to look as fabulous as we do, and now with CupCase, they can!” The CupCase costs $24.95 individually or $19.95 for 5 or more and can be purchased online at www.CupCase.com. About CupCase Your Bras CupCase Your Bras is a stylish, protective travel and storage case for up to four bras. Designed to fit in a suitcase or stand alone, CupCase comes in two different sizes – for A/B cups and C/D cups. For more information or to purchase CupCase, visit www.CupCase.com. Baci Lingerie is Honored with Two Prestigious XBIZ Awards Baci Lingerie, the leader in affordable luxury, has yet again been honored at the esteemed XBIZ Awards hosted in Los Angeles, California. Baci Lingerie is the proud recipient of not one but two XBIZ erotic Oscar awards. For the second year in a row, Baci Lingerie took home the erotic Oscar for Lingerie/Apparel Company of the Year, beating out nine other prominent nominees. The amazing Baci Lingerie Lashes Collection was also awarded with the erotic Oscar for Sensual Accessory/Product Line of the Year. “We are extremely proud to not only be nominated for this award but to win it for the second time in a row. We are grateful to everyone who is involved and who makes this possible,” commented Robert Rosen, Chief Operating Officer for Baci Lingerie. Alicia Sinclair, National Sales Director of Baci Lingerie USA, added “Baci Lingerie is honored to be in the company of such respected and well-established nominees in both categories, and wishes to thank XBIZ, retailers, customers, brand owners, and team members alike for making this honor possible. Baci Lingerie looks forward to the upcoming year, product lines, and the next annual XBIZ awards.” If you are interested in learning more about the Baci Lingerie’s Affordable Luxury Revolution and are located in the USA, please contact info@bacilingerieusa.com, visit www.bacilingerieusa.com or call 1-888-688-BACI (2224). Putting Up With Jocks The basketball coach stormed into the university president's office and demanded a raise right then and there. "Please," protested the college President, "you already make more than the entire History department." "Yeah, maybe so, but you don't know what I have to put up with," the coach blustered. "Look." He went out into the hall and grabbed a jock who was jogging down the hallway. "Run over to my office and see if I'm there," he ordered. Twenty minutes later the jock returned, sweaty and out of breath. "You're not there, sir," he reported. "Oh, I see what you mean," conceded the President, scratching his head. "I would have phoned." NRDC Files Lawsuit Against Nanosilver The Natural Resources Defense Council has filed a lawsuit in the US federal court to try to limit public exposure to antimicrobial nanosilver used in clothing and other textiles. The lawsuit is looking to prevent the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from allowing nanosilver onto the market "without the legally-required data about its suspected harmful effects on humans and wildlife", it says. The move follows the decision by the EPA in December 2011 to allow HeiQ Materials to use nanosilver in fabrics for the next four years while it generates data on toxicity to human health and aquatic organisms. Silver is a well-recognized antimicrobial, which is able to kill bacteria. Nanosilver is engineered from silver and marketed as an even stronger microbial. "Because of its incredibly small size, nanosilver penetrates organs and tissues in the body that larger forms of silver cannot reach, like the brain, lung, and testes," claims Dr Jennifer Sass, senior scientist in NRDC's health program. "For a pesticide that has some potentially devastating effects when released into the environment, and potentially damaging effects when absorbed by humans, EPA should have done a better job in protecting our health and the environment." However, HeiQ CEO Carlo Centozne said that the company is committed to "environmentally responsible products" and ensuring they meet regulatory standards. "The EPA conducted a thorough risk assessment using test data and conservative assumptions and decided to approve the product for commercial use," he said. "HeiQ AGS-20 is an innovative and efficient technology that enables effective antimicrobial protection for textiles - from shirts, uniforms and sheets to tents and tarps - because it uses less silver than other comparable products." Hey Bloggers, Sales Reps and Store Buyers!!! Would you like to write an article for this newsletter? we are looking for information for our readers and if you have anything to contribute please e-mail us. ******************************************** Advertise in the McPete Sez Newsletter, reach over 7,600 Lingerie Retailers twice monthly. We now Accept Major Credit Cards ********************************************** The McPete Sez Mail Bag From our Readers To our Readers For our Readers Inquiries: Some of our readers will have the answer. Remember, our readers are in the same Industry. Retailers, Manufacturers and Sales Representatives Disclaimer - The McPete Sez Mail Bag is a comment column, and does not necessarily reflect the views of McPete Sez. Vulgar or offensive language will not be posted. If you have the answer.....Give it" If you have something to say.."Say it". If you have a question......"Ask it" Do you have any show dates or events that you would like posted for 2012? If so please e-mail them to me for posting in our show section. Thank You The McPete Sez Lingerie Newsletter & Women's Wear Journal Page 3 Fab Foundations by Ali Cudby January’s Paris Salon International de la Lingerie is a three-day mad dash of energy, noise and excitement. The convention space is divided between two simultaneous shows. On one side is Interfiliere, which showcases fabrics, embellishments and everything else that is used to produce intimates products, and the Salon, which showcases the products themselves. Each side has its own trend forecasts and fashion shows. The Salon is further broken down into areas – Essentials, Loungewear, Men, and Chic/Spicy. These last two are the newer and upcoming companies. It’s where you see innovative thinking and get a better sense of the minds of young designers. The floor of the show is constantly thrumming with competing fashion shows. Sadly, after three days of hearing Rihanna’s “We Found Love” and Maroon 5’s “Moves Like Jagger” over and over again those two songs are forever ruined for me. If only I could get them out of my head! Despite the mash up of sound and color, a few key trends emerged clearly from the show: 1) The retro trend that hit hard in the past year is not going anywhere yet. Most collections featured at least some high-waisted briefs. 2) Corsets and bustiers – with a splash of fetishwear – also continue to be popular, with a lot of younger designers focusing on that side of the spectrum. 3) Shapewear has gone from girdle to gorgeous, with numerous brands launching shaping pieces that are gorgeous on their own and/or match their essential lingerie collections. Retro glam from Kiss me Deadly La Maison Close shows bottom-baring bottoms, as well as many styles with cuffs and collars. The relaunch of Scandale, a French brand epitomizing the trend in beautiful shapewear Aubade entertained with ballerinas as moving mannequins. New from Empreinte Queen of corsetry Cadolle, with an inspiration piece on display Leg Avenue’s bustiers and saucy styles The colors and styles of Gerbe Mannequins that can be customized for bra size, as well as color Body art by Marbella From Velda Lauder, a jacket tailored to be worn with a corset… …and the same model, without the jacket. Valisere showed a line with “layers of seduction” Marlies Dekkers’ younger sibling, Undressed, based on best selling styles More body art Bestselling shapewear brands by country. In the USA, Spanx is the winner. Ali Cudby is the author of the book Busted! The Fab Foundations™ Guide to Bras That Fit, Flatter and Feel Fantastic (December 2011), and CEO of Fab Foundations™, an intimate apparel consulting company. Ali can be found on Twitter @alicudby, and you can be a fan of the Ali Cudby’s page on Facebook. To learn more about bras that fit, download a free chapter of Busted! How to Sell In An Over-saturated Market by Holly Jackson Earlier this month, Crain's New York published this article about how the lingerie market is both over saturated and struggling with rising costs. Many lingerie companies didn't make very much money last year, and even the ones that made a profit are raising their prices. All of this means that if you're a lingerie designer or company, you need to make a commitment to getting your marketing in order in 2012. With more companies and designers competing for the same buyers, a fabulous product is expected rather than appreciated. To create loyal buyers, you'll need more than a great product - you'll want a dash or two of stylish marketing as well. 1. Create a culture, and become an icon. Clothing designers have been doing this for ages, and high end lingerie designers have been borrowing from their playbook for years now. Brands like Agent Provocateur have this down to a science, but you don't have to be a giant luxury brand to apply this strategy. Are you fun and funky or all about serious elegance? Look beyond your products and explore your marketing materials, your website, and your social media presence. Study how your purchasing process makes people feel. Is it fun? Does it build anticipation? If you feel like your marketing isn't quite lining up as well as you'd like it to, pick three adjectives that describe your brand and spend this year focusing on them. When you focus on becoming the destination for a small market instead of trying to dominate a large one, you gain the ability to focus on attracting loyal customers who will buy from you over and over again. 2. Figure out what you're bad at, and then hire someone else to do it. You got into the lingerie business by doing something you were good at. You created groundbreaking lingerie designs, or figured out how to increase distribution by 362% for your company. Do you know how to develop content that fits on various social media platforms? Do you know how to build pathways to sales within a website? Do you know how to write an educational and promotional newsletter? All of these are areas where you may be better off hiring an expert if you have the budget to do so. An expert can come in and develop your marketing content and teach you some tricks along the way. By picking the right person, you can ensure that your marketing efforts make have a greater impact and spend your valuable time doing the things that made you successful in the first place. 3. Embrace social media, and get to know some bloggers. Social media is the way of the future, and brands that continue to ignore it will be doing so at their own peril. Brands that refuse to work with bloggers will also feel the sting financially. Bloggers already wield huge amounts of power over buyers, and will only grow in influence. Having a few well placed bloggers on your side, and the social media know-how to make the most of their reviews will ensure that your company grows in any economy. I have lots of clients who want to know how to get their products mentioned on best of lists, and I always tell them that bloggers are the way to go. Be willing to send out samples (even if it's very selectively), and make it easy for bloggers to introduce your lingerie to their audiences. Find some bloggers whose work you love and respect, and then develop close relationships with them. Everyone benefits in the long term, and you'll be able to get the word out about your products to a much larger audience Holly Jackson owns The Full Figured Chest Copywriting, and specializes in lingerie writing and online content creation for lingerie companies. Her work can be found on lingerie boutique websites across the world as well as in national level campaigns. She currently writes six regular lingerie and marketing columns, and is a regular contributor to The Lingerie Addict and The Lingerie Journal as well as McPeteSez. In 2011, The Lingerie Journal named her their number one copywriter in the lingerie industry. Holly can be found tweeting @thefullfigurechest, here on Facebook, and reviewing the newest full-busted lingerie at her blog, www.thefullfiguredchest.com. Her list of copywriting services can be found here. The Gift that Keeps on Giving Treat Yourself to Lula Lu Lingerie this Valentine’s Day When Cupid’s arrow hits this Valentine’s Day, you want to feel sexy and feminine as you become the gift he gets to unwrap. This February, treat yourself to Lula Lu Petite Lingerie’s Kallie Lace Bra and Boyshort set. Trust me, you will be the present he’ll never forget. From Lula Lu Petites, flaunt your biggest (or smallest) assets in the feminine, bandeau-style Kallie Lace Bra. Designed with delicate floral lace, this non-underwire, light foam cup bra will easily win over those privy to your intimate wear. Pair with the Lace Boyshort whose sheerness will leave you feeling sexy indeed. Both available in light ivory, black or mulberry. The Kallie Lace Bra is available in 32AAA-36AAA, 30AA-36AA, 32A-36A and retails for $56. The Kallie Lace Boyshort is available in small, medium, large and retails for $32. Lula Lu Petite Lingerie, a line specifically designed for small-busted women, is the nation’s first specialist in flawless fit for the petite frame. Proving that bigger doesn’t have to be better, Lula Lu offers sizes 32A – 36A and 30AA – 38AA, and is the first retailer in the United States to develop the AAA cup, available in sizes 32AAA-36AAA. Collection ranges in price from $34-$90 for bras and corsets and $28-$42 for bottoms. For more information go to www.lulalu.com or visit them at CurveNY booth #549, February 21-23 The International Lingerie Fashion Show Continued Photos by Jerome Hamilton Delicious Sexywear of New York Delicious Sexywear of New York Delicious Sexywear of New York Delicious Sexywear of New York Miss Smarty Pants Miss Smarty Pants Miss Smarty Pants Ellie Shoes Rude Industries Rude Industries Rude Industries Definitions Inc Definitions Inc The International Lingerie Fashion Show Continued on page 4 Esty's Win Your Dream Corset Esty Lingerie is thrilled to announce their brand new and very unique competition, Win Your Dream Corset. They are giving away the chance for one lucky winner to receive the corset of their dreams, custom made as a unique, one-off piece just for them. Perhaps you want a classic black corset with lace trim and suspenders? Or perhaps you're more of a pink corset with bows and love-heart buttons type of girl? Dreaming of a sexy red number with a halterneck strap and lots of beads? Whatever your dream corset may be, they can make it for you! Enter this fantastic competition now and if you're the lucky winner they'll give you the choice of 7 customization steps, including details such as the type of closure, the color of the lacing and whether to add suspenders, giving you the freedom to build your dream corset piece by piece. Five runners up will also each win a £10 gift voucher to spend at Esty Lingerie. To enter, simply subscribe to the Esty Lingerie newsletter on or before February 14th 2012. The winner and runners up will be announced on February 15th 2012. For more details visit the Esty Lingerie blog. Eurovet Imprints Interfilière Hong Kong 2012 on Global “Interfilière” Calendar March 29-30, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center Organized by Eurovet, supported by Hong Kong Intimate Apparel and Industries’ Association (HKIAIA), as well as a number of supporting partners, the sixth Interfilière Hong Kong will be held on March 29-30, 2012 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. For the past 20 years, Eurovet has been organizing interfilière fairs around the world with the biggest event in Paris. Since 2011, this leading sourcing platform for intimates and beachwear in Hong Kong has taken a new name, “Interfilière Hong Kong” to establish the synergy with the global interfilière events which is known worldwide. This year, all interfilière events around the world, including Interfilière Hong Kong 2012, are communicated through the official website www.interfiliere.com so that all corporate messages are conveyed in a consistent way to all participants. Interfilière Hong Kong has formed a strong strategic relationship with Hong Kong Intimate Apparel and Industries’ Association (HKIAIA) for six years. This alliance has proven that this trade event is truly authoritative platform in the whole region for the lingerie and beachwear industry. It is also a truly international event with the highest quality as only industry-related visitors are invited to the show. Last year, there were over 3,500 qualified and selected visitors from all over the world at the Interfilière Hong Kong including international brands, manufacturers, buyers, wholesalers and importers. Eurovet believes that Interfilière Hong Kong continues to provide unparalleled business opportunities and connect the largest industry experts worldwide. It is estimated to have over 190 exhibitors from the USA, Europe and Asia showcasing lingerie suppliers with the highest quality – from fibers to fabrics, laces, embroideries, latest innovations and technology to accessories for lingerie and beachwear, as well as companies offering OEM and ODM capacity. Besides the French Pavilion, there will be an increased presence of Thai companies gathered in a Thai Pavilion, supported by the Thai Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce. With the phenomenal success of the past five consecutive years, Eurovet has proven that Hong Kong remains an important strategic location for intimate apparel. Not only is Hong Kong the hub for advanced manufacturing technology, but as Asia’s World City, it is also perfect meeting point for buyers and exhibitors from around the world. To echo with the Interfilière Paris and other interfilière events around the world, the slogan of Interfilière Hong Kong 2012 is “Trace the Origin” of which the essence of the fair is to bring the focus to the products and their materials. Not only does Eurovet believes that designs and cuttings are important for lingerie and beachwear production, but materials and fabrics are also the soul. With its extensive experience in organizing professional and international lingerie trade show, Eurovet reunites the authorities in trend forecast of lingerie industry. Interfilière Hong Kong will decode the latest lingerie trends, designs, creations and innovations at the Trends Forum in co-operation with Concepts Paris. In addition, seminars and conferences will be organized during the Interfilière Hong Kong to provide participants in-depth market updates and business intelligence. Details of the Interfilière Hong Kong 2012: Date: March 29-30, 2012 (Thursday – Friday) Time: 09:30 – 18:00 Venue: Hall 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre 1 Expo Drive, Wanchai, Hong Kong For more information or to register online to go www.interfiliere.com Behind "The Eye Candy" Collection The power of seduction of the Montreal’s men strikes again: the GREGG HOMME’s fans recently discovered the new model Nick Gross and many comments were read all over the web: sexy, hot, romantic, “marry me”, just to name a few. GREGG HOMME is now raising the heat by releasing some “behind the scenes” pictures taken during the photo-shoot, unveiling to the fans a 360 degrees view of Nick’s anatomy . GREGG HOMME definitively knows how to get their fans dazzled with this “Eye Candy” selection. But you haven’t seen anything yet: the next collection launching for Spring-Summer 2012 will mesmerize everyone: get your cooling devices ready because your body temperature will be on the rise! For more information go to www.gregghomme.com or visit them at CurveNV February 11-13 Booth # 102 California Exotic Novelties Releases New First Time Products New Balls and Rabbits Bounce into the Market California Exotic Novelties, the world’s largest and most respected pleasure product manufacturer, releases several new First Time items. First Time Love Balls and the First Time Jack Rabbit are bouncing into the market. “First Time is all about basic products that a sex toy novice can try. It is a pretty line that engages timid consumers,” says Susan Colvin, President and CEO of California Exotic Novelties. The velvety soft, easy-to-use Love Balls are perfectly weighted for the beginner. There are two varieties, the Duo Lover which has two balls, and the Triple Lover with three. Each is available in the signature soft pink or purple First Time colors. In honor of California Exotic Novelties all-time best selling item, the Jack Rabbit, First Time now offers the Jack Rabbit for the beginner. “The Jack Rabbit is famous and everyone knows it is hands-down one of the best-selling sex toys of all time,” says Jackie White, Vice President of California Exotic Novelties. “The First Time Jack Rabbits are the perfect product to merchandise in several areas of a retail store. Put it on the First Time wall, on the rabbit wall, and in the beginner’s section of your store for maximum exposure and sales.” The First Time Jack Rabbit is designed to be easy to use. The intuitively placed controls glow in the dark and the rotating beads are non-jamming. It is also waterproof for fun in the shower or tub. “The packaging for the First Time Jack Rabbit is written with a first time user in mind. It is easy to understand and not intimidating,” explains Al Bloom, Marketing Director for California Exotic Novelties. The First Time Love Balls and Jack Rabbits are all available now from California Exotic Novelties. About California Exotic Novelties California Exotic Novelties is the nation's leading manufacturer of adult toys and novelties. Since 1994, the company has been at the forefront of research and development of products to enhance the sexual experiences of women, men and couples. From its 200,000 square foot operations center in Chino, California, CalExotics maintains a network of manufacturing and distribution facilities worldwide. Its products are available online and from retailers throughout the world. www.calexotics.com Retirement Party The boss is finally old enough to retire from the company. On his last day of work, he ordered a farewell party for himself. The boss wanted everyone to express their good feeling about him by writing on the farewell card, so later he could remember how his staff "miss" him. Most people are writing standard phrases like, "Without you, the company will never be the same," "We will always remember you," etc. Obviously the boss was not satisfied. "I need something from the bottom of your heart, something really touching, you know. Okay, John, you have been working with me for the last 20 years. You are my best staff. I am retiring now. What do you have to say?" Slowly but firmly, John wrote, "The best news in 20 years." Consortium Wins Lejaby Takeover Bid The commercial court in Lyon on January 18, chose the takeover bid for insolvent French lingerie maker Lejaby submitted by a consortium led by Alain Prost, the former CEO of Italy's La Perla and previously managing director of French lingerie brand Chantelle. His associates in the consortium are Lejaby's Tunisian sub-contractor Isalys, Christian Bugnon (the son of Lejaby's former owner) and Italian investment fund Fiduciaria San Babila. The consortium plans to retain 195 of Lejaby's 450 staff in France. The other bid before the court had been submitted by French nightwear specialist Canat, which planned to keep on 170 workers. Lejaby went into administration at the end of October, putting its difficulties down to a significant shrinking in the multi-brand retailer channel, the main outlet for its products. Over 90% of Lejaby's production now takes place outside France, notably in North Africa. Just before Christmas the court ordered the liquidation of the company but allowed it to continue trading until January 20. UN Backs NICE The United Nations has joined forces with NICE (the Nordic Initiative Clean and Ethical) to develop the first fashion sector-specific sustainability initiative under the UN’s Global Compact. The collaboration, it is hoped, will help the fashion industry to move towards a more sustainable future and will be launched on May 3, at the Copenhagen Fashion Summit. “As an industry facing serious and widely publicized social and environmental challenges, the fashion and textile industry is uniquely positioned to launch a sectoral initiative under the umbrella of the UN Global Compact,” said Georg Kell, executive director of the UN Global Compact. “Fashion has historically had the capacity to affect the society as a whole, and therefore fashion is a great place to start building a new creative future aligned with the ecosystem we are all a part of,” added Eva Kruse, chairman of the Nordic Fashion Association and CEO of the Danish Fashion Institute. “We look very much forward to engaging leading experts and leaders of international fashion companies in the work of creating a meaningful and ambitious tool for the global fashion industry.” NICE is a joint venture by the fashion industry in the Nordic countries, led by the Nordic Fashion Association. 'Ask the Gozooko Guys' Gozooko.com is a business technology and web hosting company. With over 20 years experience working with Fortune 500 companies the Gozooko Guy’s design, develop, deploy, and manage business technology solutions. Gozooko’s core focus is to provide affordable and efficient hosted ecommerce solutions to small and medium businesses. The past 3 years they have been working with manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers in the apparel industry. Gozooko has data centers in the western and central US, and services customers around the globe. The Gozooko Guy’s goal is to provide our customers with easy and affordable ecommerce solutions that allow them to spend time focusing on their core business and sales, instead of working on their ecommerce solution.”Please send your questions about business and technology to gozookoguys@gozooko.com ASK MARA ......The Lingerie Maven I have been in the Intimate Apparel business for 47 years. From shipping, office work and customer service, fit model, showroom and road sales, to national sales manager, upper management, and design....I have done it all! And now, I hope to pass it on to you. Though close to celebrating 50 years in the same business, of which 25 have been at Shirley of Hollywood, I still feel on the top of my game. I am as excited as ever about the merchandise and the possibility of aiding new and old customers with my wealth of expertise. Owning a retail store should be a wonderful and lucrative experience. In these tough economical times, a few choice pieces of knowledge can maximize your potential sales. After all, we all have to compete with the Macy's and Victoria's Secret Stores that have lured away customers with their sharp merchandising and low prices. There has to be a reason to shop at your store. Let me share some of my ideas and experience with you. And, it is all free from Shirley of Hollywood...our gift to you. So email me at my new address: askmara@shirleyofhollywood.com. I will promptly answer and gear my answer to you personally. Good selling, Mara "Ask Andy" Andy Weinstock has been in the fabric and textile business all his life, but professionally since 1969. "I love what I do, selling fabrics around the globe. I've met lots of interesting, creative, dynamic folks; some have become dear friends. I love to help new businesses find the things they need to become successful. It works for everyone." You can ask Andy questions about Fabrics at Andy@mcpetesez.com The "Ask Andy", "Ask Mara" & 'Ask Goozoko Guys' Columns are opinion Columns and may not necessarily reflect the views of McPete Sez The McPete Sez Lingerie Newsletter & Women's Wear Journal Page 4 Lipgloss & Lace by Mandie Mutchie Video Interview with Bernie Fatla of Le Dame Footwear For this edition of Lipgloss & Lace, I experimented with doing a video article, and interviewed Bernie Fatla of Le Dame Footwear. In this interview, we discuss his journey through the footwear industry, his charity work, and the impact he's had on his consumers. Check it out! Le Dame Footwear Commercial For more information on Le Dame Footwear go to www.ledame.com Amanda Mutchie began her professional modeling career nearly ten years ago, and has appeared in many national and international publications, and commercials. Over the course of her modeling career, she worked with many acclaimed makeup artists, learning from them along the way. She eventually became a makeup artist herself and started FaceScape Artistry. Now she works with incredible photographers, models, brides, and other clients to create glamorous as well as natural makeup looks. She also channels her passion for fitness and nutrition and desire to help others into her work as a beachbody coach, and is pursuing her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. For more information on Mandie go to www.MandieM.com, www.facescapeartistry.com, email Mandie at mandelicious@gmail.com or follow her on Twitter @mandelicious. Don't forget to "like" her pages on facebook, too! www.facebook.com/MandieLM & www.facebook.com/FaceScapeArtistry Photo by Rafal Krolik of Seville Media 050107 The Addict Expose by Treacle Video Blog Post: 5 of My Favorite Pieces of Lingerie One of the things I really want to do more of on The Lingerie Addict this year is video blog posts. Lingerie is such a visual experience, and there are literally countless ways to talk about it. Last year, one of my readers asked to see a few of my favorite pieces from my personal collection, so that’s the video I’m kicking off 2012 with. If there are topics you’d like to see me talk about on video, please leave a comment. I’m completely open to suggestions and always love hearing from you! *Treacle is a 25 year old knickers junkie who started writing because her friends threatened to tape her mouth shut if she didn’t stop talking about her underwear. As a blogger, she interacts constantly with the people this industry needs most—customers. The Addict Expose is all about bringing you, the lingerie store owner, the perspective of the lingerie consumers. She welcomes lingerie lovers of every nation and persuasion to her blog, The Lingerie Addict. * 9/24 Wasteland Brings Home XBIZ Award Wasteland, the internet’s very first and largest BDSM web and mobile site, has taken home the XBIZ Award for Specialty/Alternative Site of the Year. The winners of the 2012 XBIZ Awards were announced at a gala ceremony at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. The 10th anniversary show honored the most outstanding achievements across every industry sector during the past year with more than 140 award categories. "We are thrilled at winning the XBIZ Specialty/Alternative Site of the Year Award at this year's show," says Colin Rowntree, founder and CEO of Wasteland. Having been operating Wasteland since 1994, we take great pride in our knack at thinking and shooting "outside the box" and are delighted that our work resonates with our members, fans and followers." Wasteland.com has been featured by HBO, Wired and the BBC, and has won dozens of industry awards. Wasteland's "sister site", Sssh.com, presents erotica for women and couples from a woman’s point of view, and has been featured in Time Magazine, Newsweek and the recently published book, A Billion Wicked Thoughts. Colin Rowntree, founder of Wasteland, was inducted into the AVN Hall of Fame Founders Division in 2011. Link to the awards page: http://vodawards.com/ For more information, visit www.wasteland.com. 2011 Salesman to Policeman A salesman, tired of his job, gave it up to become a policeman. Several months later, a friend asked him how he liked his new role. "Well," he replied, "the pay is good and the hours aren't bad, but what I like best is that the customer is always wrong." Esty Lingerie Adds Shahnaz Bodywear by Luis Paredes Esty Lingerie recently announced the addition of Shahnaz Bodywear to its range of independent designers available on its online lingerie boutique. “Taking its inspiration from both bondage and haute couture, this luxury collection is currently only available to purchase at Esty Lingerie,” said Esty founder Estelle Puleston. Entirely the work of designer Shahnaz who hand-crafts each piece to order, the collection includes flattering shape wear such as the satin and mesh Sculpting Body Dress, plus unique and on-trend creations such as the Harness Body and Darted Harness Bra. “Shahnaz Bodywear is designed with comfort in mind, offering you sexy, seductive lingerie that can be worn from morning to night,” added Puleston. Please visit estylingerie.com for details. The International Lingerie Fashion Show Continued Photos by Jerome Hamilton Ellie Shoes Shirley of Hollywood Shirley of Hollywood Goodevil by Underwear Station Shirley of Hollywood & Screaming O Shirley of Hollywood & Screaming O Shirley of Hollywood & Screaming O Shirley of Hollywood & Screaming O Shirley of Hollywood & Screaming O Shirley of Hollywood & Screaming O Shirley of Hollywood & Ellie Shoes Shirley of Hollywood & Ellie Shoes Shirley of Hollywood & Ellie Shoes Ellie Shoes Ellie Shoes Ellie Shoes Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado The International Lingerie Fashion Show Continued on page 5 Coquette Heads to the Studio to Shoot Kissable Collection The Creative Team hit the studio to shoot the entire 2012 Coquette Kissable Collection. To enhance the look, hair and makeup were kept soft and clean to maintain the cute, playful image that the collection is known for. Coquette’s boxed lingerie line consists of one size pieces including babydolls and role-play outfits that are made with stretchy lace and lycra mixes. This year the designers have extended the collection to include more role-play costumes and holiday themed pieces. “Shooting our Kissable line is always enjoyable, it’s fun, flirty and sexy,” said creative director Cindy Cipriano. “We work with models that embody the spirit of this collection and know exactly what we are looking to achieve, so we are able to get perfect shot.” The Coquette team will continue shooting tomorrow where they will focus on the new 2012 Darque Collection that will officially launch at the International Lingerie Show in Las Vegas this March. COQUETTE INTERNATIONAL INC. Coquette is an international distributor of lingerie and costumes founded in Canada. Since 1979, the company has delivered high quality collections that entail diversity of styles while captivating a realistic feminine appeal. Coquette has become the largest manufacturer and wholesaler of lingerie in Canada and has expanded into the international market as a major distributor of intimate apparel, serving over 64 countries. What makes Coquette unique is the diversity of styles featured in its collections that fit any lifestyle, occasion, figure or taste. Coquette is proud to offer delicate and uniquely designed lingerie in its collections, ranging in styles from romantic to risqué. COQUETTE COLLECTIONS Main Collection Coquette’s Main collection is comprised of a wide variety of lingerie styles, including a full bridal collection, club, lounge and novelty wear. Masquerade Coquette’s Masquerade Collection is comprised of Halloween and special occasion costumes. Unique to Coquette, the collection also features role-play costumes which are costumes that include an interactive element with sexy lingerie underneath. Darque Coquette’s Darque Collection is comprised of an array of sleek, stylish club wear with a playful fetish flare. Holiday The Holiday Collection includes Christmas, Valentine’s Day and New Years themed lingerie, available in holiday colors and a variety of styles. For more information on Coquette and its products, go to www.coquette.com. California Exotic Novelties Gets Playful New Games Now Available in Time for Valentine's Day California Exotic Novelties gets playful with several new games available in time for Valentine’s Day shoppers. “Games traditionally sell well during the Valentine’s Day season. Couples like to find ways to spice things up in the bedroom, and games are the perfect solution,” says Susan Colvin, President of California Exotic Novelties. Entice Her! and Entice Him! are an extension of the popular Entice! game. Each puts the opposite sex at the center of attention and is designed for two players. “When people come into the store looking for a great game for their lover, point them in the direction of the Entice! games,” says Jackie White, Vice President of Sales for California Exotic Novelties. “These are sure to be popular for couples.” Flushed is a sexy poker game for couples that pays off with sexual favors. It is intended for two players. Midnight Lovers is a challenging card game that asks how far will you go once the sun goes down? Al Bloom, Director of Marketing for California Exotic Novelties, says, “These games are fun to play and priced right for the market. They are also well developed with clear instructions and a carefully planned player engagement.” Entice Him!, Entice Her!, Flushed and Midnight Lovers are all available now from California Exotic Novelties. About California Exotic Novelties California Exotic Novelties is the nation's leading manufacturer of adult toys and novelties. Since 1994, the company has been at the forefront of research and development of products to enhance the sexual experiences of women, men and couples. From its 200,000 square foot operations center in Chino, California, CalExotics maintains a network of manufacturing and distribution facilities worldwide. Its products are available online and from retailers throughout the world. www.calexotics.com ApparelSourcing Show to Launch in February A new international event for sourcing apparel and accessories is being launched alongside the Texworld fabric fair taking place in Paris this month. Organiser Messe Frankfurt France says it is introducing ApparelSourcing Paris in response to requests from buyers. More than 60 manufacturers from Portugal, China, India, Pakistan, Italy, Bangladesh and Vietnam are said to be attending the first show in February. They include suppliers for longer term sourcing of basic collections, medium term for replenishing stocks and the short cycle for one-off collections. Women's wear dominates with almost 50% of the lines, men's wear and children's clothing represent 30% and accessories 20% in various price ranges. The ApparelSourcing show will be held at the Paris Le Bourget Exhibition Center from February 13-16, 2012. Meanwhile, the organizers say 630 exhibitors are being lined up at Texworld, where they will unveil their new products for spring/summer 2013. New exhibitors are joining from India, Hong Kong, Belgium, the US, China, Italy, Turkey and South Korea. Wacoal Reports Net Profit Growth Wacoal recorded a jump in nine-month net profit as the company said it continued to improve profitability through the structural reform of its domestic operations and through developing its Chinese business. For the period ended December 31, net income jumped 58.4% to reach JPY7.3bn as sales increased 2.9% to JPY132.1bn. For the full-year, the company is forecasting that net income will increase 106.5% to JPY5.4bn as net sales rise 3.2% to JPY171bn. The company attributed the growth to the "favorable performance of our core operating business, Walcoal brand and the expansion of our retail business". "Our group (primarily Wacoal Corp) entered the second year of our three-year mid-term plan and sought to improve profitability through structural reform of our domestic business and made efforts to strengthening growth by actively developing our overseas business, mainly in China," the company said. Over the period, sales were driven by the Wacoal brand, Peach John and its business in China. "Hey" Need a Vacation? Try these get-aways.. Grand Cayman Apts. for Rent or=Rent a Cabin in the Country The McPete Sez Lingerie Newsletter & Women's Wear Journal Page 5 MCPETE SEZ CLASSIFIEDS For $5 per line.. you can advertise here!! email advertising@mcpetesez.com or go to www.mcpetesez.com/advertising.htm for more information 1 line = 60 characters with normal spaces and capitalization --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Death on Vacation During their vacation and while they were visiting Jerusalem, George's mother-in-law died. With death certificates in hand, George went to the American Consulate Office to make arrangements to send the body back to the states for proper burial. The Consul, after hearing of the death of the mother-in-law told George that the sending of a body back to the states for burial is very, very expensive. It could cost as much as $5,000.00. The Consul continues, in most cases the person responsible for the remains normally decides to bury the body here. This would only cost $150.00. George thinks for some time and answers, "I don't care how much it will cost to send the body back; that's what I want to do." The Consul, after hearing this, says, "You must have loved your mother-in-law very much considering the difference in price." "No, it's not that," says George. "You see, I know of a case from many years ago of a person that was buried here in Jerusalem. On the third day he rose from the dead! I just can't take that chance." The International Lingerie Fashion Show Continued Photos by Jerome Hamilton Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Eldorado Shirley of Hollywood Shirley of Hollywood Shirley of Hollywood Look for more coverage from the International Lingerie Show in upcoming issues of McPete Sez Crystal Minx Tail Wins AVN 2012 Best Fetish Toy Award VirtuallyAbout, manufacturer of the Crystal Delights™ brand of luxury, handcrafted, natural erotic toys wins the AVN 2012 Award for “Best Fetish Product.” This new line of anal toys, called the Crystal Minx Tail, is available in assorted tail styles; including Fox, Lynx, Coyote and even different colors of Bunny tail. The fur tails are attached to the original Crystal Delights clear Pyrex glass butt plug, which has quickly become one of the preferred high-end plugs in the industry, making for an anal toy that will feel as good to pet as it does to wear. “We are very honored to have won,” proclaims Shellie Yarnell, Creative Director of the Crystal Delights™ line, “and we thank our customers and fans for the recognition and AVN for this prestigious award.” One of the primary missions of the Crystal Delights toy line is to keep a close relationship with its customers and the Crystal Minx Tail is the “perfect example of the success of listening and responding to our customers,” explains Yarnell. Shaye Saldana and Amy Baldwin, of the Sales Training, Education and Marketing company, STEME, were at the AEE/ANE show representing this sexy and sleek brand, which is a new addition to the company. Along with winning the award, the Crystal Delights™ line was featured on the AVN Live streaming program during the AEExpo. "The actresses and models for the Live streaming portion of the event could NOT keep their hands off the products, they loved them SO MUCH!" said Shaye. "The Crystal Minx tail was a HUGE hit with all of them and they all wanted to know where to buy them!" mentioned Amy. About VirtuallyAbout VirtuallyAbout, LLC dba Crystal Delights™ Erotic Toys, not only manufactures their line of upscale adult toys, the company has a mission to always give back to the community that supports them. They founded “Crystal Causes,“ and the “Colors Against Cancer” toy line, which donates a percentage of net profit annually to cancer charities. Crystal Causes also helps raise funds for worthwhile adult charities. All in an increased effort to support the social community that supports them. “It’s easy to make a difference if we work together,” states Yarnell, “and Crystal Causes was founded with that mission in mind; Cause we care!” For more information contact Shellie Yarnell, shellie@virtuallyabout.com (603) 296-1045 www.crystaldelights.com Intensity by JOPEN Wins Best Sex Toy for Women Award Accolade Received from AVN Intensity by JOPEN wins the Best Sex Toy for Women Award. The honor was announced during the annual AVN Awards in Las Vegas. “It is such a thrill for Intensity to win the award for Best Sex Toy for Women. The entire team at JOPEN, as well as the initial medical development team who partnered with us to make Intensity, should be very proud of their hard work,” says Susan Colvin, President and CEO of JOPEN. “Thank you AVN, for this prestigious award.” Intensity is a luxury novelty with both sexual wellness and pleasure benefits. It targets Kegel muscles to tone and tighten as it delivers gratification. Intensity sold out within hours of first becoming available. The high demand was unprecedented. “Intensity broke sales records right off the bat and continues to be a sexual wellness phenomenon,” says Jackie White, Vice President of Sales for JOPEN. “I’ve never seen such a huge demand for a single product. We had to increase production to keep up with demand. Intensity is truly revolutionary and the Best Sex Toy for Women Award is certainly fitting.” Intensity is supported with an integrated marketing campaign that includes an in-store informational display, the Intensity Insider Program, and print advertising. “Once the word got out about Intensity the public started coming to us, demanding to know when it was available and where they could buy it. I’ve never seen so many emails about a single product,” says Al Bloom, Director of Marketing for JOPEN. “With our focus on sexual health and wellness this award is especially an honor. It signifies everything we have sought to achieve with Intensity. Thank you AVN for this esteemed recognition.” About JOPEN, LLC JOPEN is a global luxury pleasure product company with a business model focused on form and function. An expert team of women drives the creation of JOPEN’s best-selling collection: Vanity, as well as the revolutionary Intensity. They understand the luxury market and fashion JOPEN products with the features that women want. JOPEN is affiliated with an established distribution channel that guarantees efficient, accurate and rapid delivery, so retailers always have readily available stock of JOPEN products. JOPEN provides pleasure with outstanding customer service, one of the best warranty programs in existence, and products that are designed to please. Visit www.JOPEN.com Encounter the new standard in luxury pleasure objects. California Exotic Novelties Releases Additions to L'Amour Introducing Six New L'Amour Massager California Exotic Novelties releases the Petite L’Amour Premium Massager, Petite Indulgence. Also being released are new Petite L'Amour Premium Silicone Massagers. “L’Amour delivers luxury at an affordable price. People love the beautiful shapes, soft colors, and quality materials,” says Susan Colvin, President and CEO of California Exotic Novelties. “The newest additions to the line are sure to be big hits.” Petite L’Amour Premium Massager, Petite Indulgence is a compact, discreet, product with a soft, satin finish. Powerful incremental speed control is achieved by holding down the button until desired intensity is reached. The EZ touch control button also features a luminous LED light. It is available in pink, periwinkle, and purple. Jackie White, Vice President of Sales for California Exotic Novelties, says, “The Petite Indulgence is adorable and priced right. I suggest stocking these heavily.” There are three different types of new Petite L’Amour Premium Silicone Massagers. They are all rabbit style vibrators and each has a uniquely shaped clitoral stimulator and a different color. The Petite Flutter is pink and has a fluttering butterfly-shaped clitoral stimulator. The Petite Thumper is white and sports a rabbit-shaped clitoral stimulator. Petite Tripler has a stimulator that resembles a platypus and is purple. The new Premium Silicone Massagers feature seven powerful functions of vibration, pulsation, and escalation, along with three speeds of shaft rotation and non-jamming beads. It is whisper-quiet, with easy push button controls and luminous lights. Al Bloom, the Director of Marketing for California Exotic Novelties, says, “L’Amour is priced and packaged to attract women who want pretty, quality, feature-packed products that are priced right. It is a great selling collection that continues to grow due to popular demand.” The Petite Indulgence and new Premium Silicone Massagers, are all available now from California Exotic Novelties. About California Exotic Novelties California Exotic Novelties is the nation's leading manufacturer of adult toys and novelties. Since 1994, the company has been at the forefront of research and development of products to enhance the sexual experiences of women, men and couples. From its 200,000 square foot operations center in Chino, California, CalExotics maintains a network of manufacturing and distribution facilities worldwide. Its products are available online and from retailers throughout the world. www.calexotics.com Fleshlight Takes Home Two AVN Awards Fleshlight, the world’s number one selling male sex toy company, has taken home two AVN Awards: Best Sex Toy Company, Large and Best Sex Toy for Men (Blade by Fleshlight). The 29th annual AVN Awards Show was held on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at The Joint at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas. "We'd like to thank AVN for the prestigious awards of Best Sex Toy for Men and Best Sex Toy Company,” says Brian Shubin, Chief Operating Officer for Fleshlight. “I'd especially like to express how proud I am of all of our employees at our headquarters in Austin, TX. Every single one of our 75 production employees and each member of our hard-working marketing team has made all of this possible. We take incredible pride in our products and the hard work and dedication here in Austin, where our products are created, produced, and distributed. The AVN show in Vegas is always a great time for our industry and we're excited to receive the recognition." The annual AVN Awards Show is the premier gala of adult video and recognizes titles, individuals, and companies for contributions to and excellence in the industry. About Fleshlight: Fleshlight was started in 1995; patents were received in 1998. The company made its large online retail venture in 2001. Before Fleshlight went online, product creator, founder and mastermind Steve Shubin was molding the individual Fleshlight himself and hand delivering the final products to retail stores like Good Vibrations. By taking the product online, the company became one of the first adult manufacturers who took their product direct to consumers. In 2006, Fleshlight started molding adult stars and launched the Fleshlight Girl Division, which has grown into the power house brand with exclusive molds of the world’s most famous and respected adult film stars. As the number one selling male sex Toy Company, Fleshlight offers patented Real Feel SuperskinTM texture toys. The company’s line of adult toys includes the Fleshlight Original, Ice, Stamina Training, Sex-in-a-Can, Fleshlight Vibro, FleshJack, and the World Famous Fleshlight Girls Toys. The company is based in Austin, Texas. Over 4 million Fleshlight toys have been officially sold, around the world. www.Fleshlight.com Sperry Top-Sider Signs Licensing Agreements Footwear brand Sperry Top-Sider has signed a series of licensing agreements to extend its reach into bags, belts, hosiery, eyewear, swimwear, headware, scarves, gloves and shoe care. The Collective Brands-owned company said the new products will launch in spring 2013 and will be sold through the company's wholly-owned Sperry Top-Sider specialty retail stores across the US and in premium department stores and specialty retailers across North America. "These initiatives are critical next steps for Sperry Top-Sider as we aim to connect more broadly with our target consumer and continue our mission to create the leading nautical performance and lifestyle brand across the globe," said Gregg Ribatt, CEO of Collective Brands' Performance and Lifestyle group. The company will partner with Manhattan Beachwear, hosiery manufacturer Refro Corporation, belt manufacturer Tandy Brands, Interbrand, which makes headwear, scarves and gloves, and US Continental Marketing, a manufacturer of leather and shoe care products in the US. It said additional deals are also pending with product categories including eyewear and watches, among others. The licensees will work with Sperry's design and marketing teams to create their collections. Each partner will then be responsible for marketing and distribution. CRAiLAR Flax Naturally Advanced Technologies has announced a partnership with Tuscarora Yarns to explore a range of blended yarns using CRAiLAR Flax. As part of the agreement, Tuscarora Yarns will design and manufacture CRAiLAR Flax for sale and distribution to third-party licensees of CRAiLAR. The CRAiLAR enzymatic process, which was developed by Naturally Advanced Technologies in partnership with the National Research Council of Canada, turns natural bast fibers such as flax, hemp, jute and kenaf into soft finished textiles that are as "comfortable as cotton, but more durable and eco-friendly". "Tuscarora is one of the most innovative yarn spinners in the world, and has the ability to prepare us for entry into several unexplored categories such as couture fashion, sports performance, extreme weather gear, and certain sectors of home furnishings," said Naturally Advanced Technologies CEO Ken Barker. "This agreement will seek to push the applications of CRAiLAR beyond our first phase of cotton blending and establish new market sectors for this unique and sustainable natural fiber." Since March 2011, Naturally Advanced Technologies has entered agreements for CRAiLAR Flax fiber with HanesBrands, Georgia-Pacific, Levi Strauss, Cintas, Carhartt, Ashland, Westex, Brilliant Global Knitwear and Target. *********************************************** The Buzz Do you or one of your co-workers have an announcement to make? A birthday, promotion, new baby, engagement, or wedding? Email their name, store name and city and state to buzz@mcpetesez.com Its Free!! If you would like to include a picture, please send it as a JPG or GIF. Mark Behar Joins iCollection As of Feb 1 Mark Behar formerly of Leg Avenue and Rubies Costume Company will be joining iCollection. Andrew Lam, Vice President of iCollection said, "We are very excited to have Mark join our team as the Director of Sales. The timing is perfect as we are about to release our expanded 2012-2013 collections (catalog). MarK Behar said "I'm quite excited to start this new and exciting venture. I am however sad to leave such an incredible organization as Rubies. My time there was unlike anything I've experienced before. The Delicious line has grown and hopefully will continue to excell." "Now however, my time and energy will be focused on iCollection and helping it become a recognize leader in the lingerie industry." added Behar. iCollection is a family owned business located in California and is one of the fastest growing brands in intimate apparel. They work with factories in China, Malaysia, and Vietnam. iCollection offers lovely lingerie, camisoles, bra and panty sets, sexy sleepwear and a plethora of other items and are known for superior quality and reasonable prices. If you are interested in receiving more information about iCollection please call 626 282-9822 or go to www.icollectionlingerie.com " Reps. Corner" Hey Sales Reps!. Take on a new line? E-Mail us for your Complimentary Listing. for 4 issues Free. *************************************************** Rep name E-mail contact Name of the line Toni Polishuk toniloveandlace@gmail.com Fantasy Lingerie Women's Wear & Textile Shows & Events for February - March Feb 4-6 United Sourcing Show www.unitedsourcing.eu Feb 5-7 Dallas Men's Show www.dallasmarketcenter.com Feb 10-13 OffPrice Show www.offpriceshow.com Feb 11-13 CurveNV www.curvexpo.com Feb 13-15 MAGIC www.magiconline.com Feb 13-16 WWIN www.spectrade.com Feb 13-16 Texworld Paris www.messefrankfurt.com.hk Feb 19-21 Moda UK Lingerie & Swimewear www.moda-uk.co.uk Feb 21-23 CurveNY www.curvexpo.com Feb 21-23 Asia Apparel Expo-Berlin www.asiaapparelexpo.com/EN March 4-7 New England Apparel Club rkeyes277@earthlink.net March 5-7 China International Hosiery Purchasing Expo www.chpe.com.cn/en/ March 8-11 Transworld's Halloween Costume & Party Show www.tweshows.com www.hcpshow.com March 12-14 Techtexile www.techtextile.messefrankfurt.ru March 13-15 China International Trade Fair www.ckcf.cn March 22-25 Dallas Market Center lslingerie@comcast.net www.dallasmarketcenter.com March 26-28 The International Lingerie Show www.spectrade.com March 26-28 Las Vegas Halloween Show www.spectrade.com March 29-30 Interfilière Hong Kong 2012 www.interfiliere.com Please contact the show before going in case of date changes or cancellations. For a complete list of 2012 shows click here! Note: We are still filling in show dates as we get them.... If you have a show in your territory please let us know. For Pete's Biography, Click Here Advertise Advertise the cyber-way, Reach an audience of responsive corporate executives, Manufacturers, Suppliers, Retailers, Sales Representatives & Exporters by Advertising in The McPete-Sez Lingerie and Women's Wear Newsletter with over 7,000 Subscribers, for as low as $6 per line per issue. which remains permanently in the archives forever! We Accept Major Credit cards For additional info and rates click here We will accept advertising with Graphics, and or Photo’s or Banners, Which, when finished remains in the Archives Forever. 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You are receiving this Letter because you have subscribed at our WebSite or, at one of our many subscribe areas throughout the net or have attended one of the many Lingerie shows that we cover. McPete-Sez L.L.C. 86 Devon Rd, Mays Landing, NJ 08330 U.S.A. Tel: (609) 432-9378 www.mcpetesez.com Thanks to our Contributors: Andy Weinstock (Ask Andy) Mara Susskind Kalcheim (West Coast Watch) Ginette Provost Flatow (The Canadian Corner) Patricia Fieldwalker (Undercover) Deborah McGuffey (Exotic Fashion News) Mercedes R. Gonzalez (What's Hot In Market) Doug Churchill (E-Tailored Rants) Rodger Knights (Rodger's Ramblings) Bubba (Bubba Sez) Kevin Everett (Ask Kevin) Russell Van Brocklen (Photographer) Jerome Hamilton (Photographer) Luis Paredes (Intimate Graphics) The Gozooko Guys ( Business & Technology) Treacle (The Addict Expose) Mandie Mutchie (Lipgloss & Lace) Serene Martinez (Pink Bunny Pleasures) Kerri Renae (Create Lingerie) Fernando Cuestas (Videographer) Ali Cudby (Fab Foundations) Alexandra Cage (In the Toybox) pinkmynx@gmail.com Hazel (Lingerie Drawer) Holly Jackson www.thefullfiguredchest.com The contents of this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the opinions of McPete Sez LLC. McPete Sez LLC makes no warranties, either expressed or implied, about the truth or accuracy of the contents of information provided. McPete Sez L.L.C. Owner & Editor: Heather Briggs Any part of this publication "may" be reproduced in whole, or in part, with the express written consent of the Editors. All rights reserved. (c) 1999-2011 The McPete-Sez Newsletter Thanks for Coming, See you again February 15, 2012