BJI Fashion Group would like to thank all retailers and exhibitors who participated in the May editions of AccessoriesTheShow, Moda Manhattan, and Fame. It was apparent from the energetic buyer and designer interactions on the show floor that the industry is moving in a positive direction.

“Judging from our numbers, the economy is definitely improving. Our attendance grew by a robust 17% and showed a very significant increase in our foreign buyer attendance. Overall, we were very pleased to produce such a strong experience for our customers and think the success of our May show bodes well for the second half of 2012,” said Britton Jones, President and CEO of Business Journals, Inc.

Strong trends led the Fall/Winter 2012 season by directing buyers to the great finds each designer had to offer – resulting in steady order writing. Leather, both real and faux, was popular as trim and accent in updating many styles of accessories and apparel throughout the show floors. Another solid fashion for Fall/Winter was animal influence in every category. This flirtatious element was fully embraced by many lines and translated through collections from handbags to jewelry to RTW.

The excitement generated from the May market lives on as retailers and designers reflect on their experiences and review their orders and notes.

Up next…August 5-7, 2012 in NYC!

See you there!

In continuing our reputation for being the most amenity-filled show in the industry, BJI Fashion Group encourages you to take advantage of these complimentary products and services on-site:

• Blow outs, flat ironing, up-dos, and more provided by De Berardinis salon
• Manicures provided by Blush Nail Lounge
• Makeup applications provided by Lindsey Jones Makeup
• Enjoy a 15 minute session with accredited massage therapist Tobie Schuerfeld
• DJ Lexey will be on the show floor spinning LIVE from the DJ Lounge
• For your convenience, take advantage of the complimentary shuttle bus service
• Breakfast * Cappuccino/Coffee/Tea * Lunch * Smoothies * Bottled Water
• WiFi Lounge
• AccessoriesTheShow & Moda Manhattan Fashion Totes (While supplies last)
• FAME Fashion Cases (While supplies last)

What can you expect at AccessoriesTheShow, Moda Manhattan, and Fame?

The show floors will include over 2,200 lines combined to create the most complete market week experience for you this season. See below for designer samplings…

AccessoriesTheShow:(1,200+ lines of juried accessories)
Highlighted Designer Sampling:

• Deborah Gaspar
• Echo Design
• Elliott Lucca
• JPK Paris 75
• Laundry by Shelli Segal Accessories
• Piero Guidi
• Steve Madden
• Tolani
• Viva Time
• Wool You Be Mine

AccessoriesTheShow and FAME will feature dozens of leading contemporary shoe brands in virtually every category from resort to evening. According to Britton Jones, President and CEO of BJI Fashion Group, “Over the past few seasons footwear has become an integral part of the shows as shoe designers realize the importance of specialty retailers. Unlike straightforward shoe exhibitions, BJI’s shows offer a well edited selection of leading footwear brands to discerning retailers.” Additionally, traditional shoe buyers are able to glean a global perspective on what’s happening in fashion and pair that information with their shoe selections.

AccessoriesTheShow will be home to brands including:
Big Buddha, Elliott Luca, Flipout Sandals, In Things, Nina Footwear, Skemo, and The Sak.

This season FAME will feature influential brands including:
Ardiente, BCBGeneration, BC Footwear, Bronx, Camuto Group, Chelsea, Drew/Demfon, Chinese Laundry, Consolidated Shoe, Diba, Dirty Laundry, Dizzy, DV By Dolce Vita, G by Guess, GC Shoes, Groove, Jessica Simpson, Lovely People, Luichiny, Lucky Brand Footwear, MTNG Europe, Naughty Monkey, Nicole & Madeline, Nine West, Restricted, Seychelles, Steve Madden, Tommy Hilfiger, Wanted Shoes and Yellowbox.

The May 7-9, 2012 editions of AccessoriesTheShow, Moda Manhattan, and Fame are just a week away! To give you a head start on pre-show planning, you are now able to access all show information LIVE from our websites before you even get to the show!

The May Show Guide is just one of the tools available and includes Fall/Winter ‘12-13 seasonal trends, exhibitor booth listings, product categories and much more. Start planning your May market buying trip!

Click Here to view the May show guide

The BJI Fashion Mobile app is also LIVE… Download today!

The BJI Fashion Mobile app – New York May Edition – is now available for download on your iPhone, Android or Blackberry.

All show details are now readily available at your fingertips:
• Searchable exhibitor lists
• Floor plans
• GPS to help navigate the show floor
• Important news updates
• Tools to organize your favorite exhibitors and plan an agenda

To download, visit www.BJIMOBILENYMAY.com

For Buyer Registration information, please email our registration team at buyerinfo@busjour.com

For the latest, go to…

www.accessoriestheshow.com

www.modamanhattan.com

www.fameshows.com

Natalie Frigo

Owner/Founder

www.bynataliefrigo.com

Booth: 2173

What is one of your key items for this upcoming Fall/Winter 2012 season?

My Triangle Cuff is an essential item from the Fall/Winter line. I designed it for women looking for a splash of glamour with everyday versatility. I am especially fond of this piece because it feels like you are wearing a sculpture when you have it on, but it’s lightweight enough to not feel cumbersome.

From where do you draw inspiration?

I am most influenced by ancient cultures, specifically the Etruscans and Ancient Egyptians. They didn’t try to hide the craftsperson’s hand in their jewelry and I carry that aesthetic into my work today. It’s very powerful to see that “a person made this.” I’m often told that this is a key reason for someone’s initial enchantment with a piece of by/ Natalie Frigo, which I love to hear.

How do you start the design process when creating a new collection?

I am always sketching new ideas throughout the year as they come to me. When I start a new collection, I carefully consider these sketches. There is almost always a reoccurring theme of shape or texture that is repeated. I use this theme as a starting point for the new pieces along with any variations I’d like to make on classic styles. It is sort of a free fall though. You never really know where you will end up after you leap into the creative process. I am methodical about my approach to design, but I am always surprised by a few of the pieces that are created.

What do you think will draw retailers to your collection this upcoming season?

My latest collection is big and bold – a bit of a departure from other collections. I am also introducing items at a more accessible price point. Since I am an eco-friendly jewelry designer, my collection has great statement pieces that you can also feel good about purchasing because the line is made from 100% recycled casted metal and ethically sourced stones.

If you could dress a celebrity who you feel fits your product image, who would it be and why?

Sofia Coppola! Whenever she is photographed, she looks effortlessly beautiful. I love that she wears unexpected outfits that don’t scream for attention, but also manages to avoid looking boring or too classic. Her style highlights her allure without eclipsing it – she is a true icon.

What is your personal fashion philosophy?

It is of the utmost importance that I make jewelry that women love without damaging the earth or exploiting people. It is such a simple gesture to use recycled metals and ethically sourced stones and to have pieces made in theUSunder safe working conditions. My hope is that more people in the fashion world will use eco-friendly methods to create their collections. I am also passionate about supporting the local economy. All production on my jewelry is done inNew York Cityand I personally know everyone who has a hand in by/ Natalie Frigo – from my mold maker to my gem dealers to my stone setter. They are all people I respect who take pride in their work and this allows me to stay involved in the process every step of the way and maintain quality control throughout.

What three items are essential to you during market week?

Ricola cough drops because I am talking, talking, talking all day long, green tea with ginger to stay energized, and my favorite notebook to keep copious notes.

Juan Hernandez

President

www.moomoo-designs.com

Booth: 2609

What is one of your key items for this upcoming Fall/Winter 2012 season?

Key items for the season will be oversized necklaces that are made of cow horn, bone and nail in earth tone colors which call to mind the exoticism of theFar Eastand African continent.

From where do you draw inspiration?

I draw inspiration for my lines through my travels. The cultures of native peoples in Africa, Latin America and Asialargely influence my collections. It is of utmost importance to me that each of my pieces are made of all natural materials and inspired by colors I see in nature.

How do you start the design process when creating a new collection?

I want to see trends; whether it’s colors, materials, shapes, or lengths. Before I combine my aesthetic with the materials, I source for my collection.

What do you think will draw retailers to your collection this upcoming season?

Retailers are immediately drawn to my collections because they call to mind exoticism, versatility, and wearability.

If you could dress a celebrity who you feel fits your product image, who would it be and why?

I would like to dress Gwyneth Paltrow. I love her natural elegance and approachability.

What is your personal fashion philosophy?

Edgy with exceptional quality and comfort.

What three items are essential to you during market week?

Three things essential to me are comfortable shoes, good market management support, and a cocktail near by.

Jennifer Daniels

Designer

www.ilux.com

Booth: 1910

What is one of your key items for this upcoming Fall/Winter 2012 season?

For Fall 2012, the fading striped cashmere sock, Lynnie. This style is a good example of one of our great yarns knit in a modern sleek silhouette. Lynnie is made with our exclusive lightweight worsted spun cashmere yarn knit on an 18-guage sock machine. As with all of ilux socks, Lynnie is finished with a handlinked toe and a minimal relaxed cuff. Therefore, Lynnie stays up, doesn’t bother your toes, and doesn’t leave a mark on your calf.

From where do you draw inspiration?

I draw inspiration from everywhere. I’ve designed socks from photos I’ve taken of everything from architecture to vintage textiles in home store windows. In general, I’m constantly finding potential patterns and/or color combinations that can work in socks and legwear because it is such a fun category.

How do you start the design process when creating a new collection?

Like many designers, I use trend forecasting services. I study where the experts in the industry think fashion is heading and I pull elements that will work to bring the ilux brand into the next season. This is where I get most of my color inspiration from, but I try not to stay rigid to these trends. I also have a big white wall in my studio that I cover with photos from new and old magazines before I begin each season and I turn to it when I need a splash of color or patterns to translate into new product.

What do you think will draw retailers to your collection this upcoming season?

Definitely the colors. It is a rainbow of rich hues and jewel tones that look warm and inviting. Retailers who have purchased ilux in the past will be excited to see our new line of luxurious basics. We’ve made pieces that look basic but have more to them than what meets the eye. For example, our black turtleneck and scoop neck layering pieces are lined in a microfleece that feels great and keeps you warm when it’s cool and cool when it’s warm.

If you could dress a celebrity who you feel fits your product image, who would it be and why?

I would choose Rihanna because of her ever-changing hairstyles and chameleon sartorial choices. She can rock endless patterns and add a touch of elegance and glam. With our unexpected color combos and perfected traditional luxury socks, I visualize a parallel with this music industry star. She can still be professional and have a touch of funk and fun. Just like our socks, you can enjoy luxury and still have an individual and vivid sartorial expression.

What is your personal fashion philosophy?

Don’t be afraid to take a risk with your wardrobe and take inspiration from anything that catches your eye. You can always interpret color and texture into your day-to-day outfits by adding a fun pair of socks… and don’t forget to have fun!

What three items are essential to you during market week?

Three items essential during market week are our entire Ponte Fabric collection, our Cashmere Sock collection, and our Fleece Lined Leggings.

Shirelle Minton Sioui

Chief Creative Officer

www.casadelriocollection.com

Booth: 1925

What is one of your key items for this upcoming Fall/Winter 2012 season?

Our Cyndi Wristlet is our most versatile bag and a must for Fall/Winter 2012. Carried as a clutch, wristlet, or cross-body, this bag can work for day or night.

From where do you draw inspiration?

My family is filled with amazing, chic women. Many of our silhouettes are influenced by vintage pieces from my grandmother and mother’s collections.

How do you start the design process when creating a new collection?

Every item in our collection has a history; a purse from Spain in 1982 or a satchel from the 1950s can be updated for today’s woman. We focus on quality and functionality.

What do you think will draw retailers to your collection this upcoming season?

Our bags are handmade inManhattan’s Garment District out of wildFloridaalligator. We buy all of our findings and trim from American companies, and pride ourselves on being made in theU.S.A.We are “Relentlessly American.”

If you could dress a celebrity who you feel fits your product image, who would it be and why?

We would love for First Lady Michelle Obama to carry one of our handbags. She is a strong, independent woman with a classic sense of style. Michelle is true to herself, always on trend, and reflects the new American woman.

What is your personal fashion philosophy?

It’s all about design! Quality design and construction make the difference between a product you enjoy briefly and a wardrobe staple.

What three items are essential to you during market week?

Good, strong coffee. I need to be on top of things at all hours of the day. I think I may be becoming more caffeine than woman; cute/comfortable shoes; and my sisters. Casa del Rio Collection is a true family affair. My mother and sisters will be attending with me to represent our company.

Louise O’Leary

Creative Director & Designer

www.louloubellebags.com

Booth: 2074

What is one of your key items for this upcoming Fall/Winter 2012 season?

The LouLou clutch with brass antler detail is my signature piece.

From where do you draw inspiration?

Nature! Living in the Irish countryside on a large farm surrounded by lakes, hills, and forests has a huge influence on me; I am always inspired by being outside in these beautiful surroundings. My collection features brass antlers on two of my bag styles and was inspired by a set of deer antlers that I received for decorating the house. Unfortunately, my husband didn’t want them in the house, but I loved the aesthetic quality of them so I transferred them to my design. My rustic surroundings also inspired the earthy tones in the leathers I used for the A/W collection.

How do you start the design process when creating a new collection?

I always start by looking at the shapes I want to include in the collection. I like to have a variety, whether it’s a completely new shape or a reduced/larger size of a style that has been popular but is in need of a little restyling. There are some styles that have been in the collection since I started because when I took them out, people wanted them back! I have learned not to mess with the classics. After choosing the shapes, comes the fun of playing with different colours and adding interesting details and my signature brass hardware.

What do you think will draw retailers to your collection this upcoming season?

I’m relatively new to the USmarket and have already received attention from press/fashion blogs, so I think the freshness of my label will be key for retailers looking for that “next big thing.” All of my bags are made from the highest quality leather and hardware in Italy, and along with my statement of making brass antlers, retailers will find that this season’s bold colorways will be a great selling point in green, grey, blue, tan, and purple.

If you could dress a celebrity who you feel fits your product image, who would it be and why?

I would have to choose the Olsen twins. They have a great mix of classic and quirky style; which I think is really relatable to my bags because I tend to see my designs as classic with just that little bit of quirk making them different. The Olsens have confidence in their fashion choices, and while not everyone agrees with their look, you have to admire their sense of style as something truly original.

What is your personal fashion philosophy?

If you have the confidence, you can pretty much get away with anything. If you think you’re rocking it, then go for it! At the end of the day, fashion should make you happy.

What three items are essential to you during market week?

Three essential items are my notebook, tea (I am Irish!) and some downtime with friends at the end of the day.

Tammy and Greg Stemas

Owners/Designers

www.brightlytwisted.com

Booth: 2410

What is one of your key items for this upcoming Fall/Winter 2012 season? 

Our characteristic hand dyed scarves are always a signature piece for every season. No two are the same; their uniqueness really adds that extra something to any outfit.

From where do you draw inspiration?

I personally thrive from the collaborative process at Brightly Twisted. I am creatively stimulated by my interaction with the talented artists I work alongside. Also, watching the excess dye swirl about in the sink provides unexpected inspiration throughout the day.

How do you start the design process when creating a new collection?

For us, everything starts and ends with color – color and contrast. As colors of the season change, we know where to begin in designing a fresh collection.

What do you think will draw retailers to your collection this upcoming season?

I’m very excited about the new fabric we’ve introduced to our scarf line – French Terry Bamboo. It’s just crazy soft and luxurious; not quite as large as a blanket but very substantial. The perfect travel companion!

If you could dress a celebrity who you feel fits your product image, who would it be and why?

We recently found a photo of Teri Hatcher wearing a Brightly Twisted scarf while travelling and felt very proud to see our work worn so well – big hoop earrings, a great hat and sweater, but most of all a smile. She looked comfortable and chic. The whole outfit seemed put together as if we had styled it. It was a great moment for us as relative newcomers to the fashion industry. I’d also love to see our designs on a woman of influence politically and would be an awesome representation of our work. The chameleon-like quality of Brightly Twisted encourages diversity and personal autonomy found in women such as Michelle Obama, Gloria Steinem, and Rachel Maddow.

What is your personal fashion philosophy?

I prefer staying under the radar for the most part. I never want to be overdressed. Comfort and simplicity are important to me as a working woman. But I do love fashion, and adding a little something extra – that’s where Brightly Twisted comes in!

What three items are essential to you during market week?

My Hilltribe bag made from women’s tribal robes in Thailand is my favorite material possession in the world. Comfortable shoes are key. And of course, a Brightly Twisted scarf!