The Alexander Report

By Tiffany Plater

Diversifying is no longer a financial term. It can be applied to many avenues. However, it seems so relevant in the fashion world today. Brands are beginning to extend their reach. They are no longer focusing on designing one or two kinds of items. The mission of many brands is to become a lifestyle brand.

Gwen Stefani, a noted celebrity and musician, started her brand called L.A.M.B. At first, the line was clothing only-the usual sweaters, tops, dresses, skirts, and pants. Then she jumped into footwear. This past season L.A.M.B launched a line of handbags. Just recently it was reported that the brand inked a deal with Coty Inc. to put out a signature fragrance as well. The trend appears to be first to understand and master an area of fashion and then expand the offerings in your portfolio. (more…)

By Tiffany Plater

The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) announced its 2007 nominees at Rockefeller center. This will be their 25th year. The CFDA is the most sought after prestigious nomination in the fashion business. It is equivalent to receiving a Grammy.

Among the many nominees were the usual suspects: Marc Jacobs for Marc Jacobs and Oscar de la Renta for womenswear, Calvin Klein for menswear, Marc Jacobs for Marc Jacobs for accessories, and many others. Lazara Hernandez and Jack McCollough for Proenza Schouler (more…)

By Tiffany Plater

Marc Jacobs has brought us classics and much to talk about with his two lines: Marc Jacobs and Marc by Marc Jacobs. He and his partners are now considering putting more on their fashion plates with a third line, Marc3.

Marc3 will be priced under Marc by Marc Jacobs. This third line will allow the brand to reach even more consumers than before. Marc3 could be equal to the success and caliber of the partnerships with H&M and big fashion names (Karl Lagerfeld and others). Marc3 if successful could mark history. High-end labels very rarely come out with an additional line let alone a third line. (more…)

by Ted Santos

In the previous article, I talked about how leaders are different from managers. Leaders intentionally create problems to drive innovation and accelerate revenue growth. Managers solve problems. This time I will give 5 tips on strategies that can give you unwanted problems.

The don’ts

1. Don’t micro manage. Unless you want to take away the confidence of your people, show them that you don’t trust them and increase resentment, don’t micro manage.

2. Don’t give them answers. (more…)

by Tiffany Platter

Designers seem to be scaling back on the ‘in your face’ logo bags. There is so much one can do to a bag besides add a handle and a zipper. Designers are stretching their creative muscles and reaching for individuality.

Of course, there are your typical big name players that will always have their logos strewn across their bags (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, etc.) in every collection. But even these brands have found triumph in removing their names and replacing them with wonderful designs, colors (metallics are popping everywhere) textures (patent leather and patchwork), and shapes. This season, translucent bags will be home to Dolce & Gabanna, Oscar de la Renta, Chanel, and many more. Even patent leather will find warmth with Marc Jacobs, Valentino, and others .Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Yves Saint Laurent all have coveted bags in the metallic family. Right now, It’s all about texture and quality.
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By Tiffany Plater

There are times when an actor can actually sing and a traditional sneaker company can successfully design women’s dress shoes. These are instances where talent transcends all barriers. However, these moments are rare in time and few and far between. And New Era is vying for a chance to do what many have attempted but only few have accomplished.

New Era is the largest sports licensed headwear company in the world. They have been in business for over 80 years and it shows. Their workmanship can be seen on the heads of many, from Jay-Z to Prince William, Major League Baseball teams to NBA members, New Yorkers to Nigerians, and many more. They have now evolved their business from hats to apparel. Their apparel line due out this year will resemble their headgear. The line is very sporty and reminiscent of Lacoste (and I could go on and on with the examples). (more…)

By Ted Santos

Most of what is taught in business school has a focus on improvement. I don’t want to throw that out. I do, however, suggest that businesses can create quantum leaps on purpose. And that is the job of leadership.

So, where do I start? I ask: What’s the difference between a manager and a leader? Managers become managers because they were great at solving problems. Those that make the transformation become senior managers. Senior leaders transform from problem solvers to problem creators. If a President or CEO spends more than 5%-10% of their time solving problems, they need to devise a plan to change that.
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