NexCen’s Bird in Hand: Bill Blass Brand Sold To Men’s Firm Peacock

NexCen Brands Inc. sold its Bill Blass licensing business to Peacock International Holdings for $10 million in cash.

Expansion in the Middle East, further development of Blugirl and investments in its accessories division are top priorities for Blufin SpA.

The outlook for 2009 among producers of natural fibers such as wool and cotton has gone from bad to worse.

American Apparel Inc. has promoted Adrian Kowalewski to executive vice president and chief financial officer.

A former national makeup artist for YSL Beauté has accused the company of firing him because a heart condition forced him to pare his travel schedule.

Adelle Kirk, a former Liz Claiborne executive, has joined Kirk Palmer & Associates Inc. as vice president.

The Officers Club discount men’s wear chain is the latest British retailer to be rescued from administration.

Anthropologie will open its first store in downtown Chicago next fall, a 12,000-square-foot unit at Block 37.

Anthropologie has developed a series of reinvention workshops for shoppers.

Lily Collins, the daughter of Phil Collins, and Mary Norton have developed an accessories collection, with proceeds going to the Maple Counseling Center.

Top-volume Web sites generally are failing to meet the expectations of America’s consumers, according to a recent study.

Given the global financial crisis and consumer anxiety, ready-to-wear designers obviously are proceeding with caution into the new year.

Editors share their tips for escaping holiday anxiety.

Artemis and the state of California are reportedly trying to negotiate an amicable agreement in the long, drawn-out Executive Life affair.

The year’s most energetic party guests.

Brazil is emerging as one of the most promising markets for Italian luxury goods companies including Missoni, Salvatore Ferragamo and Giorgio Armani.

Robert Jaffe, who allegedly funneled millions of dollars to Bernard Madoff, may have to give up his shopping habit.

The Standard & Poor’s Retail Index slid 1 percent, or 2.60 points, to 268.76.

IT Holding SpA said Monday it has not extended its sale negotiating period with Mensun Ltd. beyond the end of the year, despite noises to the contrary.

Baugur Group’s estimated $2 billion of debt appears to be staying within Iceland’s borders.

Even as the ownership of the Bill Blass Couture fashion house is determined, First American Brands is adding to the Bill Blass Couture fragrance collection.

There aren’t many designers who fondly recall the days when fashion was just another trade, and when the spotlight was on the client — rather than the talent.

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