How Fashion Licensing Works

Fashion licensing is a business arrangement where a fashion brand grants permission to another company (the licensee) to use its brand name, logo, designs, or other intellectual property to create and sell products. This allows the licensee to leverage the brand's reputation and recognition to market and sell products, while the licensor (the fashion brand) earns royalties or fees for granting these rights. Here's how fashion licensing typically works:

Identification of Brand and Potential Licensee:

The process begins with a fashion brand (licensor) identifying potential categories or products that could be licensed. For example, a clothing brand may consider licensing its name and designs for accessories like handbags, shoes, or fragrances.

The brand then searches for potential licensees—companies with the expertise and resources to produce and distribute the licensed products. These can include established manufacturers, retailers, or specialty firms.

Negotiation and Agreement:

The licensor and potential licensee engage in negotiations to define the terms and conditions of the licensing agreement. This includes the scope of the license, the specific products or categories covered, the duration of the agreement, and financial terms.

Financial terms often involve royalty payments, which are typically a percentage of the licensee's sales of licensed products. There may also be upfront fees, minimum guaranteed payments, or a combination of these.

Minecraft & Puma

Minecraft has become one of the most beloved video games of all time.  Honoring its infinite terrain and infinite possibilities for creativity, the new PUMA x MINECRAFT collaboration features iconic game inspired graphics.  Colors are fabulous and pulled straight from the game.  Bold geometric prints and ergonomic details for gaming and comfort make this collab truly special.

Shop for PUMA x MINECRAFT clothing and shoes at https://us.puma.com/

Versace and Luxottica Group

Versace and Luxottica Group recently announced the early renewal of an exclusive license agreement for the development, production and worldwide distribution of sunglasses and prescription frames under the Versace brand. The ten-year renewal is effective starting April 1, 2020 and is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2029.

kathy ireland Intimates & Sleepwear License

kathy ireland® Worldwide and PPI Apparel Group are extending their partnership for kathy ireland® Intimates & Sleepwear through 2023, it was announced by Mr. Abe Hanan, Partner of New York-based PPI Apparel Group.

PPI Apparel Group first debuted the kathy ireland® Intimates & Sleepwear collection in Spring 2012. The two companies are now celebrating the $100 million sales benchmark. "We were thrilled to be awarded with the exclusive license for kathy ireland® Intimates & Sleepwear several years ago," says Mr. Hanan. "We knew then that a partnership with kiWW®, one of the most successful brands in the world, presented a tremendous and unique opportunity for our company. Our sales projections were doubled and we are now celebrating a major milestone. We are even more thrilled to be able to share this success with Kathy and her exceptionally talented team at kiWW®," he adds.

"Abe, Joey, and Mr. Morris Hanan are three of the most extraordinary leaders and executives we've ever met. The Hanan Family had the courage to return our brand to fashion after our success in the home industry," says Kathy, kiWW's CEO & Chief Designer who this year graced the cover of Forbes Magazine for the second time as one of America's 50 most successful self-made women. "Many, many years ago our apparel was sold at the discount channel. When we decided to reset apparel, after enormous success in home... all the king's horses and all the king's men said our apparel couldn't move forward... but the Hanan's obviously could. Their extraordinary design team, in concert with our Global Creative Director, are making miraculous things happen. We are outselling so many leading intimate apparel brands. Our on-trend design work, in-stock positioning and customer connection has more powerful results than expensive, ubiquitous advertising. Our sales and margins are excellent... and sales and margins are the bottom lines, after all. Aren't they? Congratulations Abe, Joey, Mr. Morris Hanan and every team member at PPI! We started as a business, and became a business family."

The kathy ireland® Intimates & Sleepwear collection includes functional, sophisticated, fashion-forward and on-trend bras, panties, shapewear and sleepwear. The new upcoming collections will see expansion in girls and the launch of underwear for men, I'M1.

About PPI Apparel Group

PPI Apparel Group products are currently being sold in over 35,000 retail locations throughout the US and Canada and abroad. Their primary corporate focus has been fashion intimates, shapewear and sleepwear for the junior, missy and full figure market. They offer their expertise through a vast array of licensed properties and additionally are a premier source for private label product to many retailers.

About kathy ireland® Worldwide

Founded in 1993, the kathy ireland® Worldwide brand, celebrates a lifestyle. The missions of "...solutions for families, especially busy moms™," "...solutions for people in love™," and "...solutions for people in business™," translate to all kiWW® collections, including: fashion, fine jewelry, intimate apparel, skincare, accessories, weddings, home, office and more. kiWW's unique capability to design and translate fashion trends for all markets and price points allows it to develop product for a wide variety of customer tastes. Listed as the 25th most powerful brand globally by License Global Magazine, with annual merchandise sales of $2.6 billion, according to Forbes Magazine, the success of kathy ireland® Worldwide is the result of teamwork and dedication. Kathy has graced the cover of Forbes Magazine twice (2012, 2016) and according to Fairchild Publications, Kathy Ireland is one of the 50 most influential people in fashion.

Kathy and kiWW® support many non-profits including: YWCA Greater Los Angeles for which she is an Ambassador, Dream Foundation, Providence Educational Foundation, 911 for Kids/AEF, and the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Kathy was recently named an Ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.

Thank you for taking the time to read our apparel industry licensing blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

Kenneth Cole & Global Brands Group Licensing Agreement

Kenneth Cole Productions, Inc. and Global Brands Group Holding Limited, one of the world’s leading branded apparel, footwear, fashion accessories and lifestyle product companies announced on June 23, 2016 that they have entered into a U.S. licensing agreement for men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel as well as handbags under the labels Kenneth Cole New York, Kenneth Cole Reaction, and Unlisted, A Kenneth Cole Production.

In the press release from Global Brands it said, “entered into a U.S. licensing agreement”.  At this time, I am not certain exactly what that means.  Does this mean that Global Brands has the license to sell any category of men’s, women’s and children’s apparel under the labels mentioned above in the USA market?  Honestly, I am not certain.  If you know, please add your knowledge on this subject into the comments section of this post.

“As we continue to grow and evolve the Kenneth Cole brand around the world we are excited to partner with a global leader like Global Brands, with vast design, distribution, operational, and sourcing capabilities, to better service our growing brand footprint,” said Marc Schneider, Chief Executive Officer of Kenneth Cole Productions. “We are excited about this partnership and the growth opportunities it affords us in these categories of our business.”

“Kenneth Cole and his brand, has defined the standard for New York style and social consciousness for more than three decades," said Jason Rabin, President of North America and Chief Merchandising Officer of Global Brands Group Holding Limited. “We believe that the Kenneth Cole brand has tremendous potential to resonate with consumers far beyond levels it is currently reaching. We are excited to work with the Kenneth Cole team and to add this iconic American brand to our growing portfolio and look forward to taking it to new phases of growth.”

Global Brands Group Holding Limited is one of the world’s leading branded apparel, footwear, fashion accessories and related lifestyle product companies. The Group designs, develops, markets and sells products under a diverse array of controlled and licensed brands and a wide range of product categories. Global Brands’ innovative design capabilities, strong brand management focus, and strategic vision enable it to create new opportunities, product categories and market expansion for brands on a global scale. The Group is also engaged in the brand management business and is the world’s leading brand extension company, offering decades of expertise in expanding its client’ brand assets into new product categories, new geographies and retail collaborations, as well as assisting in distribution of licensed products on a global basis. The brand management business represents more than 100 clients across lifestyle, fashion, entertainment and sports.

Learn more about Global Brands Group.

Learn more about how Global Brands is taking over the world (Li & Fung; is Global Brands).

Disney Ugg Boots with Crystals

Discover limited edition Classics featuring your favorite Disney characters and sparkling Swarovski® crystals.

Minnie Mouse, Mickey and Tinker Bell boots with sparkling crystals.

Minnie - Inspired by Disney’s first style icon, this Classic Boot is as timeless as Minnie Mouse herself. Crafted from our signature Twinface for world-class warmth and comfort, this cozy style has been adorned with sparkling Swarovski® crystals depicting Minnie Mouse’s signature polka dot bow.

Mickey - Wear Mickey’s iconic ears in a new way with this limited edition take on the Classic Short. Crafted from the UGG signature Twinface for world-class warmth and comfort, this bold red boot features Mickey’s silhouette in dazzling Swarovski® crystals.

Tinker Bell - With a swirl of her wand and a little bit of pixie dust, Tinker Bell infuses their iconic boot with Disney magic. Crafted from our signature Twinface for world-class warmth and comfort, this Classic Short features Tinker Bell’s famous silhouette in dazzling Swarovski® crystals.

By the way, UGG now has a store at Disney Springs.  Experience their new store design and shop some exclusive styles.  Address: 1520 E Buena Vista Drive #G
Orlando, FL 32830 

Sequential Brands First Quarter 2016 Growth

First Quarter 2016 Results for Sequential Brands shows revenue growth.  The fashion brand licensing company is moving in a positive direction.  Total revenue for the first quarter ended March 31, 2016 increased to $34.0 million, compared to $13.6 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was $16.7 million, compared to $8.0 million in the prior year quarter. On a non-GAAP basis, net income for the quarter ending March 31, 2016 was $2.5 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, compared to $1.3 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, in the prior year quarter. On a GAAP basis, net loss was $(1.1) million for the first quarter, or $(0.02) per diluted share, compared to net income of $1.4 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, in the prior year quarter.  

You can see more information such as tables for a reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP measures in the investor relations section of their website.  See their press release for more information.

Sequential Brands Group believes that great brands are built one step at a time. They also need great people to help nurture and grow them.  They have gathered a group of seasoned experts ranging from consumer design, product development, marketing, branding, licensing, digital media, and PR to work with all their brands.

Their experts, who span multiple consumer sectors, act as a catalyst to increase value through brand design, innovation, and extension through their licensing model.  A well-defined, strategic philosophy and mission statement promotes, supports, and protects Sequential Brands Group most valuable asset which is their owned brands.

Learn more about Sequential Brands Group.

Thank you for taking the time to read our fashion industry news. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

SURTEX Tradeshow in NYC

Online registration for SURTEX® is now open at www.surtex.com.  SURTEX exposition and conference, North America’s premier event for the sourcing and licensing of original art and design, is slated to run May 15-17, 2016 at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.  SURTEX is the only event of its kind dedicated to the licensing of original art or design for use in the manufacturing of home goods, bedding, paper products, toys, calendars, textiles fabrics and more.

Approximately 300 exhibiting artists from around the world will participate in one of three categories: Art and Brand Licensing with 200 exhibitors who license designs; Atelier with 80 exhibitors selling design; and Resource Hub with 20 exhibitors supplying technology and business essentials. In addition, the Design District, a new area featuring emerging artist will bring over 30 designers never seen before. The Design District was created to provide new exhibiting art studios the best opportunity to showcase their art to a targeted attendee audience looking to source new designs for use on finished products.

“This 30th annual edition of SURTEX promises to be the best yet in terms of art and design offerings, as well as education and networking. This is a can’t miss event for artists looking to bring new art to market and for product developers and retailers looking to license original art or design for use in the manufacturing of everything from home goods and bedding, to fashion fabrics and textiles to toys and giftware,” said Liz Crawford, Vice President and Group Show Director. “SURTEX also provides attending media with a prime opportunity to craft and develop fashion and home design trend stories, features on trending art and artists, licensing business stories, and supply chain articles; following the art through to finished product.”

In addition to sourcing and licensing design and art, SURTEX features an educational component, including a series of free pre-show webinars to help exhibitors prepare for the event. The on-site conference program will deliver business strategies from a creative perspective. The SURTEX conference program is designed to cover all aspects of art licensing strategy, in 90 minute sessions, to help a designer take their small business through all steps in the product development process. Visit www.surtex.com for complete schedule.

Additionally, the Trend Theatre features 30-minute presentations, held daily at 11:00am, 1:00pm and 3:00pm on the exhibit floor within the ReSource Hub. These information packed sessions are hosted by industry experts, trend-spotters and thought-leaders. The 2016 lineup focuses on progressive topics such as Consumer Insights and Trends for the Upcoming Generation – Gen Z, Top Color Palettes, Themes and Materials for the Upcoming Season, and Home Interiors. For a complete listings and session times visit www.surtex.com, to plan your show day schedule. 

Two additional, Emerald Expositions-owned design events – the National Stationery Show® and ICFF® – will run concurrently with SURTEX at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.  One badge will afford media, attendees and exhibitors access to all three events, generating unique cross-market innovation and inspiration and business opportunities for all event participants.

Advance registration for SURTEX, which is free to qualified attendees, is available online through 11:59PM EDT on Saturday, May 14th. After that date, registration costs $60 for qualified registrants. On Day 3, SURTEX welcomes design students and faculty for the expo only for $30.00. This fee does not include the conference sessions. Upon completion of online registration, participants will receive a barcode, which is redeemable for a badge at any SURTEX self-registration terminal at the Javits Center.

About SURTEX

SURTEX is the annual tradeshow for the surface design industry, bringing together owners and creators of surface design (artists/designers/studios/agents/brands/licensors) with manufacturers, retailers and marketers utilizing surface design for product development needs. Since 1986, SURTEX has been the single event and global resource offering the full scope of art selling and licensing under one roof.  The 2016 edition, slated for May 15-17, will connect some 300 exhibitors featuring the work of over 1,200 artists and designers from around the world, with over 6,000 attendees.  For information and registration, visit www.surtex.com.

SURTEX is owned and operated by Emerald Expositions, a leading operator of large business-to-business trade shows in the United States, producing more than 50 trade shows and over 100 face-to-face events in total, including conferences, summits and other events. Emerald Expositions connects more than 335,000 sellers and buyers each year and operates within the U.S. in 10 end markets (Gift, Home, General Merchandise and Manufacturing; Sports & Apparel; Design; Jewelry, Luxury & Antiques; E-Commerce; Creative Services; Licensing; Healthcare; Military; and Food). 

Learn more about the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

Thank you for taking the time to read our textile event blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

Iconix Brand Group News Summary

Iconix Brand Group has had several important news reports during the past few months.  They were investigated by the SEC, created a short-term shareholder rights plan, took steps toward a conclusion with SEC, and appointed a new president and member of the board.  Sure seems like a bumpy road an plenty of significant issues unrelated to marketing fashion brands.  Hopefully they will now be able to turn their attentions back to the apparel industry and consumers of fashion.

Feb. 23, 2016: The Board of Directors of Iconix Brand Group, Inc. announced that John N. Haugh has been appointed President and a member of the Board of Directors effective February 23, 2016.  Mr. Haugh will become Chief Executive Officer of Iconix on April 1, 2016.   At that time, Interim CEO Peter Cuneo will transition to Executive Chairman of the Iconix Board.  Mr. Haugh is a proven executive with more than 30 years of experience leading premier global brands and retail businesses at highly respected companies, including Luxottica S.p.A., Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. and Mars, Inc.  In his role as President of Sun, Luxury and Retail Services for Luxottica Retail, N.A., he led more than 14,000 Sunglass Hut associates; managed the Luxottica and Macy's, Inc. license operations business; directed the luxury optical business; and managed real estate, design and construction for Luxottica Retail, N.A.

Feb. 18, 2016: Iconix Brand Group, Inc. announced that it will restate historical financial statements based on the Company's conclusions related to the accounting treatment applied to certain transactions in connection with the previously disclosed comment letter process with the Staff of U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Staff").  The Company has responded to the Staff with a Confirming Letter on all of the questions the Staff has raised.  The Company also reaffirmed its guidance for 2015 licensing revenue, non-GAAP diluted EPS and free cash flow.  Due to the restatements, the Company anticipates filing its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, and reporting fourth quarter and full year 2015 financial results by, the extended filing date of March 15, 2016.  Please refer to the Form 8-K filed February 18, 2016 for additional details on the restatement, including tables detailing the estimated adjustments.  Peter Cuneo, Chairman and Interim CEO, commented "As we have stated in the past, the comment letter process was related to highly technical accounting standards and while we are disappointed to have to restate our financial statements, as we expected, there will be no impact on free cash flow.  Moving forward we are highly focused on positioning Iconix for long term success and are pleased to announce that our core operating business is on track to achieve our 2015 and 2016 projections. We also remain on track with our financing plans and expect to be in the position to refinance our convertible notes that mature in June 2016."

Jan. 27, 2016  Iconix Brand Group, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors has adopted a short-term shareholder rights plan (the "Rights Plan"), which will expire following the 2016 annual meeting of shareholders, absent an extension being approved by shareholders. The Board adopted the Rights Plan in light of recent activity in the Company's shares, including the recent accumulation of meaningful positions by holders of derivative securities, and what the Iconix Board and management believes is a currently depressed share price for the Company's common stock.  They pointed out that the Rights Plan is similar to plans adopted by numerous publicly-traded companies and was not adopted in response to any specific takeover bid or other proposal to acquire control of the Company.

Dec. 28, 2015: Iconix Brand Group, Inc. announced that the Company received a formal order of investigation from the Staff of the SEC.  The Company intends to fully cooperate with the SEC.  As previously disclosed, the Company is currently in a comment letter process with the Staff of the SEC related to the accounting treatment for the formation of certain joint ventures.  Additionally, the Company formed a Special Committee of the Board of Directors to conduct a review of the accounting treatment related to certain of the Company's transactions.  As announced in a Form 8-K filed on November 5, 2015, the Company's current management team determined, based in part on the Special Committee's review, that the Company would restate its historical financial statements in respect of (i) the 2013 fiscal year and the fourth quarter thereof, (ii) the 2014 fiscal year and each quarterly period thereof and (iii) the first and second quarters of 2015, to correct certain errors in accounting. The Company completed these restatements, which were filed at the end of November 2015.

About Iconix Brand Group, Inc.

Iconix Brand Group, Inc. owns, licenses and markets a growing portfolio of consumer brands including: CANDIE'S (R), BONGO (R), BADGLEY MISCHKA (R), JOE BOXER (R), RAMPAGE (R), MUDD (R), MOSSIMO (R), LONDON FOG (R), OCEAN PACIFIC (R), DANSKIN (R), ROCAWEAR (R), CANNON (R), ROYAL VELVET (R), FIELDCREST (R), CHARISMA (R), STARTER (R), WAVERLY (R), ZOO YORK (R), SHARPER IMAGE (R), UMBRO (R), LEE COOPER (R), ECKO UNLTD. (R), MARC ECKO (R) and STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE (R). In addition, Iconix owns interests in the ARTFUL DODGER (R), MATERIAL GIRL (R), PEANUTS (R), ED HARDY (R), TRUTH OR DARE (R), MODERN AMUSEMENT (R), BUFFALO (R), NICK GRAHAM (R) and PONY (R) brands. The Company licenses its brands to a network of leading retailers and manufacturers that touch every major segment of retail distribution from the luxury market to the mass market in both the U.S. and worldwide. Through its in-house business development, merchandising, advertising and public relations departments, Iconix manages its brands to drive greater consumer awareness and equity.

Learn more about Iconix Brand Group here on Apparel Search.

Thank you for taking the time to read our fashion blog post. We hope that you have found this fashion industry news to be informative. 

Read more fashion industry news.

If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

Ren and Stimpy with Jeremy Scott at NYFW

Ren and Stimpy from Nickelodeon graced the catwalk at New York Fashion Week.  Fashion designer Jeremy Scott released them upon the fashion world which created a buzz at NYFW.

See more from Jeremy Scott.

Temperamental chihuahua Ren and his trusting feline sidekick, Stimpy. Together, this twisted twosome find themselves in crazy absurd adventures.

Learn more about Ren and Stimpy.

Below you will find some other colorful cartoon face designs from Jeremy Scott.

Jeremy Scott was born in Kansas City, Missouri. In 1992, he arrived in New York City to study fashion design at the Pratt Institute. Upon graduating in 1996, he relocated to Paris where, a year later, he introduced his signature brand, Jeremy Scott, and debuted his first of many sensational presentations.Over the next five years he launched the modeling career of Devon Aoki; worked with Christian Louboutin and Stephen Jones on accessories for his runway shows; received accolades from Karl Lagerfeld; and won the 1996 and 1997 Venus de la Mode Award for Best New Designer.

See more from fashion designer Jeremy Scott here on the Fashion Blog.

More about NYFW February 2016.

Shape Active Licensed Activewear Collection

Meredith Corporation (NYSE:MDP), the leading media and marketing company serving 100 million unduplicated American women monthly and more than 60 percent of U.S. millennial women, announced today a brand licensing agreement with Apparel Bridge LLC for SHAPE® Active, an activewear collection designed for women. This is the first licensing program announcement for the category-leading SHAPE brand, which was acquired by Meredith in January 2015. 

“Our acquisition of SHAPE extends to all aspects of corporate growth, including licensing,” says Elise Contarsy, Vice President of Meredith Brand Licensing. “We are excited to work with our partner Apparel Bridge to showcase the value of the SHAPE brand beyond print, and bring a line of athleisure clothing to women looking for the perfect combination of performance, comfort and fashion.”

The moderately-priced collections are now available at DicksSportingGoods.com, kohls.com, and Equinox gyms, with many additional retail partners expected, including Amazon. 

“We are thrilled to be selected by the SHAPE team to bring fashion-forward and feminine activewear to the marketplace. Our vibrant pieces reflect the personality and style of the iconic SHAPE brand,” says Sheena Mahtani, VP of Operations from Apparel Bridge. 

The designs are grounded in high performance materials with features including DryFuze(TM) to wick moisture, and reflective or glow-in-the-dark treatments. Each piece is figure-flattering, with details such as a signature S-curve seaming in tops, jackets and bottoms. 

“Blending active apparel and a media property is innovative and very exciting,” says Andy Hilfiger from Star Branding, who facilitated the partnership. “Retailers need fresh brands, and SHAPE Active, which has both the performance and the fashion women want today, is positioned to deliver what retailers are looking for in this fast-growing apparel category.”

The launch of SHAPE Active is just one of many programs announced by Meredith Brand Licensing in the past year, including the partnership between EatingWell and Bellisio Foods, Inc. on an EatingWell healthy frozen food product line. These launches build on Meredith’s already successful licensing programs, such as partnerships between Better Homes and Gardens and Walmart, Realogy and FTD, and Allrecipes’ partnership with Clipper Corporation on a line of cookware, bakeware and kitchen gadgets.  

For more information on SHAPE Active, and to view the collections, visit http://www.shapeactive.com/. 

Launched in 1981, SHAPE helps women achieve the best versions of themselves while understanding that healthy living is more than an endgame—it’s a source of personal joy and lasting reward. SHAPE magazine is published 10 times a year with a rate base of 2.5 million and an audience of 27 million, reaching women across all platforms, including the 8.5 million users on Shape.com and Fitnessmagazine.com, and through award-winning consumer events and innovative brand extensions.

ABOUT MEREDITH CORPORATION

Meredith Corporation has been committed to service journalism for more than 110 years. Today, Meredith uses multiple distribution platforms – including broadcast television, print, digital, mobile and video – to provide consumers with content they desire and to deliver the messages of its advertising and marketing partners.

Meredith's National Media Group reaches 100 million unduplicated women every month, including 60 percent of American Millennial women.  Meredith is the leader in creating and distributing content across platforms in key consumer interest areas such as food, home, parenting and health through well-known brands such as Better Homes and Gardens, Allrecipes, Parents and Shape.  Meredith also features robust brand licensing activities, including more than 3,000 SKUs of branded products at 4,000 Walmart stores across the U.S.  Meredith Xcelerated Marketing is a leader at developing and delivering custom content and customer relationship marketing programs for many of the world's top brands, including Kraft, Lowe's and NBC Universal.  

Meredith's Local Media Group includes 17 owned or operated television stations reaching 11 percent of U.S. households.  Meredith's portfolio is concentrated in large, fast-growing markets, with seven stations in the nation's Top 25 – including Atlanta, Phoenix, St. Louis and Portland – and 13 in Top 50 markets. Meredith's stations produce approximately 650 hours of local news and entertainment content each week, and operate leading local digital destinations.

ABOUT APPAREL BRIDGE LLC

Apparel Bridge is backed by three decades of apparel and textile manufacturing excellence and is a one-stop apparel solution provider with a unique vertical model. They have been manufacturing apparel for the world’s largest retailers for 35 years, producing more than 400 million garments. They are a vertical operation and control every aspect of production from yarn to delivery in store. The seamlessly integrated supply chain along with strategic design capabilities provides them the competitive advantage and speed to market the industry demands. 

They employ a top team of material scientists to bring the newest technologies to apparel and to create fabrics from a mere vision. The team’s attitude towards transparency and traceability provides a complete picture of the ethical and environmental impact of their products. Apparel Bridge is relentless in their pursuit for excellence.

Thank you for taking the time to read our fashion industry news.  We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

Minnie Mouse Inspired UGG

Inspired by Minnie Mouse, our new collection celebrates Disney’s foremost fashion icon with playful polka dots, sweet bows, and sparkling sequins, putting the magic of Disney and the comfort of UGG® right at your feet.

Shop for Minnie Mouse UGG footwear at the UGG Australia website.

MODEL: 1013390T

This Classic Boot from the UGG partnership with Disney celebrates Minnie Mouse and her trademark style. Your mini-me will love this update to the Bailey Bow, which features Minnie’s signature colors and polka dot bow plus special Mickey Mouse binding.

Learn more about Ugg quality so that you understand that if you choose to purchase any of these shoes, you would be obtaining quality as well as style.

Target Splits on Cherokee License

Cherokee Global Brands said apparel retailer Target Corp elected not to renew the license of the Cherokee brand in the United States.  The current license will expire on Jan. 31, 2017, Cherokee said in a statement on Thursday September 10, 2015.

Target has been licensing the Cherokee brand for almost two decades.

Cherokee earned $15.0 million in royalty revenue from Target for the Cherokee brand, excluding Canada sales and school uniforms category sales, in fiscal 2015, according to Cherokee's annual filing.

Cherokee Global Brands is a marketer and manager of a portfolio of fashion and lifestyle brands including Cherokee®, Carole Little®, Tony Hawk® and Hawk Brands®, Liz Lange®, Everyday California® and Sideout®, in multiple consumer product categories and sectors around the world. The Company has license agreements with best-in-class retailers and manufacturers covering over 40 countries around the world.

The Cherokee brand, which began as a footwear brand in 1973, is an iconic American family lifestyle brand, offering classic, casual comfort at affordable prices.

Learn more about fashion industry licensing issues here on Apparel Search.

Joe’s Brand & Differential Brands Group

Joe’s Jeans and Robert Graham Announce Transformative Transactions That Will Create a New Omni-Channel, Premium Branded Consumer Platform.

Joe’s Jeans Inc. and RG Parent LLC on September 8, 2015 announced two transformative transactions.

First, the Company has agreed to sell the Joe’s® brand and operating assets for an aggregate purchase price of $80 million to two separate buyers, Sequential Brands Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SQBG) and Global Brands Group Holding Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 787).

Proceeds from the transactions will be used to retire certain outstanding indebtedness, including all indebtedness owed to the Company’s senior term loan lender. The closings of the asset sale transactions are subject to satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions, including the simultaneous closings of both asset sales. It is anticipated that the asset sale transactions will close by September 30, 2015.

Second, the Company has agreed to merge the remaining Hudson business with the parent company of Robert Graham, RG Parent LLC, a nationally-recognized fashion brand. The strategic combination of the Robert Graham and Hudson® brands will provide the foundation of a new, premium branded consumer platform that focuses on organically growing its owned brands through a global, omni-channel strategy, including premium wholesale department store and specialty stores, direct-to-consumer retail stores, ecommerce, and licensing. Additionally, the platform intends to seek opportunities to acquire accretive, complementary, premium-plus brands.

Upon the closing of the Joe’s® brand asset sale transactions, the Company will be renamed Differential Brands Group Inc. (“DBG”) and remain listed on NASDAQ. The name change signifies the transformation of these standalone businesses and the creation of a unified consumer platform. After the completion of the merger transactions, the Robert Graham equity holders will own approximately 47.3% of the Common Stock, the preferred stock owned by Tengram will be convertible into approximately 23.9% of the Common Stock, the convertible noteholders will own approximately 14.0% of the Common Stock and the existing stockholders (including the outstanding equity awards under the Company’s incentive plan) will own approximately 14.2% of the Common Stock, all on a fully diluted basis. The merger is subject to regulatory approval, as well as a vote of the Company’s stockholders on certain matters related to the merger, including a one for thirty reverse stock split, and is expected to close during the fourth quarter of 2015.

In connection with the merger, an affiliate of Tengram Capital Partners (“Tengram”), a consumer-focused private equity firm and the controlling owner of the Robert Graham business, has agreed to sponsor a recapitalization of the combined business to improve and simplify the capital structure. Tengram will purchase $50 million of new series A convertible preferred stock of the Company. Upon the closing of the Merger, the outstanding indebtedness of the Company owed to its senior revolving credit lender will be paid in full, as well as certain indebtedness to the convertible noteholders and Joe Dahan. In connection with the Merger, the holders of the Company’s outstanding convertible notes, including Peter Kim and an affiliate of Fireman Capital Partners, will exchange such notes for common stock, cash and modified convertible notes.

Michael Buckley, current Chief Executive Officer of Robert Graham, who has previous public company leadership experience at True Religion, in addition to building Diesel, and Ben Sherman, has been tapped to lead DBG as Chief Executive Officer, upon the closing of the Merger. Mr. Buckley stated, “I believe Differential is uniquely positioned to become one of the leading premium omni-channel brand platforms in the world, and I am thrilled to begin leading the company as Chief Executive Officer after the closing of the Merger.” Mr. Buckley stated, "I am excited to begin working closely with the Board of Directors, Tengram Capital Partners and each of our current and future portfolio brands in building shareholder value in the years to come.” Mr. Sweedler, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Tengram added, “Tengram is thrilled to be the lead sponsor in this transformative transaction and to have the opportunity to create a second public platform with a focused operating playbook to fuel strong growth in the foreseeable future.”

The issuance of shares and certain other transactions related to the merger will require majority approval of the Company’s stockholders at a stockholder meeting expected to be held during the fourth quarter of 2015. Joe Dahan, beneficial owner of approximately 17% of the Company’s outstanding stock, has entered into a voting agreement, pursuant to which he has agreed to vote his shares in favor of the merger.

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Piper Jaffray advised Tengram and Robert Graham on the various transactions while Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP and Carl Marks Securities LLC advised Joe’s Jeans Inc.

B. Riley & Co., LLC served as the exclusive financial advisor to Peter Kim and Fireman Capital Partners on all matters related to this transaction while Sullivan & Cromwell LLP provided legal counsel to Mr. Kim and McDermott Will & Emery LLP provided counsel to Fireman Capital Partners.

About Joe’s Jeans Inc.

Joe’s Jeans Inc. designs, produces and sells apparel and apparel-related products to the retail and premium markets under the Joe's® and Hudson® brands and related trademarks.   More information is available at the company’s websites at www.joesjeans.com and www.hudsonjeans.com.

About Robert Graham

Robert Graham is 'American Eclectic.' Since its launch in 2001, Robert Graham was created on the premise of introducing sophisticated, eclectic style to the fashion market as an American-based company with an intention of inspiring a global movement. Robert Graham received the 2014 "Menswear Brand of the Year" award from the American Apparel & Footwear Association.  Robert Graham now operates freestanding stores in 23 locations nationwide. The brand also sells at luxury department stores and boutiques, and it has showrooms located in New York City, Los Angeles, Dallas, Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver (www.robertgraham.us).

Additional Information about the Proposed Merger and Where to Find It

This communication relates to the proposed merger pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated September 8, 2015, by and among RG Parent, LLC, JJ Merger Sub LLC and Joe’s Jeans Inc.

The source of the majority of the information above is from a Joe’s Jeans Inc. news release.  For the full details you can visit their site or contact them for the full story.  We have omitted portion of their release and added a few comments of our own as well.

It appears that there are two different press releases floating around.  Possibly I am misunderstanding, but it appears that some of the details has variance.  The Globe Newswire release explains that Sequential Brands Group buys the brand, and Global Brands Group is signing a long term license.   The other release from the Joe’s Jeans Inc., investor relations website says the brand has two separate buyers.  Also, the dollar amounts are off.

HONG KONG and NEW YORK, Sept. 8, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) Sequential Brands Group and Global Brands Announce Strategic Partnership for Joe's Brand – “Sequential Brands Group, Inc. (SQBG) ("Sequential" or the "Company") announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Joe's brand (the "Brand") and certain other related assets for a total purchase price of approximately US$67 million.  In tandem with the acquisition, the Company announced the signing of a long-term licensing agreement for all of the brand's core categories with Global Brands Group Holding Limited ("Global Brands"; SEHK Stock Code:787), one of the world's leading branded apparel, footwear, fashion accessories, and lifestyle product companies. The long-term licensing agreement will become effective upon closing of the acquisition.”

On the Joe’s Jeans Investor Relations website September 8, 2015

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84356&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=2086244

“Joe’s Jeans Inc. (NASDAQ: JOEZ) (the "Company") and RG Parent LLC today announced two transformative transactions. First, the Company has agreed to sell the Joe’s® brand and operating assets for an aggregate purchase price of $80 million to two separate buyers, Sequential Brands Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SQBG) and Global Brands Group Holding Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 787). Proceeds from the transactions will be used to retire certain outstanding indebtedness, including all indebtedness owed to the Company’s senior term loan lender. The closings of the asset sale transactions are subject to satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions, including the simultaneous closings of both asset sales. It is anticipated that the asset sale transactions will close by September 30, 2015.”

Brand Founder Joe Dahan to Continue Leading Product Design as Creative Director

The first range of Joe's(R) products produced in collaboration with Global Brands will launch in Spring 2016.

Looks like Li & Fung gains access to another international fashion brand.  Yes, Global Brands Group is a division of Fung Holdings (formerly referenced as Li & Fung).

Learn more about Sequential Brands Group.

Thank you for taking the time to read our fashion apparel industry news. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.

THE SIMPSONS x Johnny Cupcakes

Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products and Johnny Cupcakes, a faux bakery specializing in graphic t-shirts, announced yesterday the launch of a brand-new apparel and accessories collection featuring characters from the iconic television show The Simpsons. The focal point of this product line is three specially packaged, oversized “cupcake mix” boxes, each based on a fan-favorite character from The Simpsons franchise. Each box contains three collectible products designed exclusively around the theme of the featured characters: Homer Simpson, Bart Simpson, and Krusty The Clown. These items will not be sold separately and are exclusive to the packages.

Additional clothing items featuring iconic characters from America’s favorite animated family will also be represented with a Johnny Cupcakes twist and will be available in all Johnny Cupcakes retail shops and online on May 31, 2014.

All of Johnny Cupcakes’ exclusive designs are “baked” in limited batches, making the products not just “sweet,” but collectible. By applying a clever spin on mainstream imagery, the t-shirt brand found a great pairing with The Simpsons due to the sitcom’s shared affinity for original pop culture references and fun, witty humor.

“The Johnny Cupcakes brand has such a tactile and engaging experience embedded into its culture and we wanted to bring that energy to The Simpsons apparel line,” said Johnny "Cupcakes" Earle, CEO and Head Baker. “What makes this collaboration unique is the fun world of imagery and iconography that we’ve created with our brand that we were able to seamlessly merge into The Simpsons universe.”

To learn more about our partnership and to view our latest blog post about this collaboration, please visit www.johnnycupcakes.com. The Simpsons and Johnny Cupcakes collaboration apparel can be purchased in all Johnny Cupcakes retail shops (Boston, Los Angeles, and London) and is available to fans around the world on the company’s website, www.johnnycupcakes.com, beginning May 31^st 2014.

About The Simpsons

The longest-running scripted show in television history, The Simpsons exploded into a cultural phenomenon in 1990 and has remained one of the most groundbreaking and innovative entertainment franchises, recognizable throughout the world. Currently airing its record-annihilating 25th season and in production on their 26th season, The Simpsons has won 28 Emmy Awards and been nominated for an Academy Award in 2012 for the theatrical short The Longest Daycare.  The Simpsons: Tapped Out is a top grossing mobile App and has ranked number one around the world on the App Store™ charts. The Simpsons Movie had worldwide global acclaim and the revolutionary virtual coaster ride at Universal Studios Florida and Hollywood is a continuous hit, along with the new Springfield experience at Universal Studios Florida.  The Simpsons received a Star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2000 and has been honored with five U.S. postal stamps personally designed by Matt Groening.  Named the “Best Show of the 20th Century” by Time Magazine, in 2013 Entertainment Weekly named The Simpsons the Greatest American Sitcom.

The Simpsons is a Gracie Films Production in association with 20th Century Fox Television. James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, and Al Jean are the Executive Producers. The Gracie Films Worldwide Brand Division develops and produces the licensed content for the series. Film Roman is the animation house.

About Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products

A division of 21st Century Fox and recognized industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products licenses and markets properties worldwide on behalf of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, Twentieth Century Fox Television and Fox Broadcasting Company, as well as third party lines. The division is aligned with Twentieth Century Fox Television, the flagship studio leading the industry in supplying award-winning and blockbuster primetime television programming and entertainment content.

About Johnny Cupcakes

Although Johnny Cupcakes doesn’t sell real cupcakes, their quirky apparel — largely focused on graphic tees that poke fun at pop culture with a culinary twist — still creates a buzz through word of mouth and general curiosity. Johnny Cupcakes creates a unique experience for each customer through special events, nationwide tours, unique packaging, playful retail environments and endless surprises, which over the past 12 years has amassed them an international following of die-hard collectors.

Thank you for taking the time to read our fashion blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative. 

You may also have interest in viewing our previous article about The Simpsons Fashion Collaborations we posted recently.  Also, check out The Simpsons Chuck Taylor collection we wrote about last year.

If you have comments or questions, please add your thoughts in the discussion area below.