Mom’s Hilarious Frog and Toad Shirt Mix-Up: A Viral Moment with a Side of Drama

Sometimes online shopping delivers a little more than what you bargained for—just ask Kelsey Dawn Williamson, a mom from Benton, Illinois, who ordered an innocent-looking Frog and Toad t-shirt for her infant daughter. What arrived at her doorstep, however, was far from your typical children's clothing. Her story, filled with unexpected laughs and a viral moment, has caught the attention of many, though not all responses were as cheerful. Let’s dive into this amusing (and slightly controversial) tale.

The Unexpected Arrival of a “Frog and Toad” T-shirt

Kelsey, a seasoned online shopper who had ordered over 50 shirts from AliExpress, was expecting another adorable piece for her daughter, Salem. The shirt featured the beloved characters Frog and Toad from the iconic children’s book series. However, when it arrived, Kelsey was met with something she could hardly believe: beneath the illustration of the friendly amphibians riding bikes, the shirt boldly read “F*CK THE POLICE.” Shocked and confused, Kelsey didn’t know how to react. She shared, “I literally did not know how to process it, so I just stared at it for a moment.”

The Viral Facebook Post and Laughter at Home

Not one to shy away from sharing life’s curveballs, Kelsey quickly posted a photo of her daughter in the t-shirt on Facebook. Almost instantly, the post went viral. Thousands found the shirt’s bizarre contrast between innocent imagery and a notorious N.W.A. lyric both hilarious and ridiculous. Kelsey and her husband, who she had Facetimed, had a good laugh over it too. “We both just lost it, dying of laughter,” she recounted.

Despite its unintended humor, Kelsey knew Salem wouldn’t be wearing that shirt to preschool anytime soon. Instead, she plans to save it in her daughter's baby box for a good story when she's older. “People really love your frog shirt!” she told Salem, highlighting the charm of the unexpected mishap.

Why Did This Happen? The Mystery Behind the Shirt

As it turns out, the odd t-shirt design may not have been as intentional as it appeared. Frog and Toad have become meme legends on the internet, even earning their own subreddit. Most likely, the shirt's creator—a Chinese seller from AliExpress—simply grabbed a popular meme image online without understanding the cultural or political context of the text. Language barriers or lack of attention to detail could explain how the offensive phrase made its way onto a child’s shirt. Still, the result was a comedic collision of innocence and rebellion.

Dealing with the Negative Reactions

While Kelsey found the situation humorous, not all the attention was positive. Along with the viral fame came trolls. Shockingly, some people targeted Salem’s weight, sending cruel messages fat-shaming her infant daughter. “People were messaging me just to say mean things about her,” Kelsey revealed, recounting the harsh criticism she faced. Strangers online questioned her parenting and made insensitive comments about her daughter’s size, despite Salem seeing specialists for her health.

In response, Kelsey updated her Facebook post, refusing to let the negativity get her down. She urged people to focus on the humor of the shirt and stay out of her personal life. Her bold response: “JUST LAUGH AT THE FUNNY SHIRT.”

Final Thoughts
Kelsey’s story is a reminder that the internet can bring both joy and challenges. What started as an amusing mishap—receiving an inappropriate t-shirt for her child—ended up as a viral moment filled with laughs, but also some unwelcome negativity. Through it all, Kelsey has stayed strong, choosing to embrace the humor and keep things in perspective. After all, life’s too short not to laugh at the unexpected—and sometimes, the best thing we can do is just laugh at the funny shirt.

matty m.™ Rebrands with Evolved Product and Vision

matty m.™, the woman-founded, Los Angeles-based clothing brand inspired by the beauty of elevated style, announces a new brand direction honoring its legacy of intentional design while taking the next steps in crafting increasingly eco-friendly apparel.

It all started in the 1990s with four thousand dollars and a vision. Since then, loyal customers have loved the brand for its consistently great fits and exclusive novelty fabrics, allowing them to worry less when making fashion choices each season. Despite decades of recognition as a high quality fashion line, the company introduced matty m. as a direct-to-consumer brand for the first time earlier this year, and has seen exciting growth in its expansion into specialty boutiques.

matty m. is dedicated to producing compelling collections designed to be fashionable season after season, as women build out more responsible and thoughtful wardrobes. The brand is also committed to a long-term, modernizing transformation of its chain-of-custody processes.

"Fashion doesn't have to be bad for the planet. At matty m., we take our responsibility seriously," said CEO Eleanor Sanchez Meyer. "Now more than ever we're focusing on the future of our customers' lives by crafting our line with mindful materials and efficient production practices, so everyone feels complete confidence adding matty m. styles to their wardrobes."

While high quality materials and effortless designs are the foundation of the brand, Sanchez Meyer and her team are now setting their sights on growth. With a renewed vision of the brand's identity and aesthetic, matty m. is poised to reintroduce itself as a leader in conscious dressing to an increasingly sophisticated customer.

• New Brand Aesthetic: A refreshed identity that embodies the brand's new slow fashion vision, blending matty m.'s modern sensibility with stylish go-to pieces.
• Enhanced Product Line: The line is fashionable, elevated, and dedicated to offering versatile and creative solutions to the customer's evolving wardrobe needs while delivering luxurious quality and trend-relevant products at an affordable price point.
• Responsible Craftsmanship: A proven commitment to incorporating more eco-friendly practices, including the use of sustainable fabrics and prints, and an increased supply chain transparency. matty m. is Global Recycling Standard (GRS) certified, which means its entire supply chain – from material sourcing to manufacturing and delivery – meets the industry's highest recycling standards.
• Materials: matty m. believes in taking less and giving more, for a greener planet and happier customers, using eco-materials like:
• ECOVERO™, the superhero of responsible viscose fibers in the fashion world.
• Recycled polyester and nylons.
• Modal, a semi-synthetic form of rayon, another plant-based textile, made from beech tree pulp.
• Water-based dyes.
• Forest Stewardship Council-certified recyclable hang tags, garment labels. Even the twine that fastens the tag to the garment is made from recycled materials.
• Packaging: matty m. broke up with single-use plastic, opting instead for 100% recycled and recyclable options, from new eco-friendly shipping boxes and poly bags, to packing tape that contains no fiberglass material. In 2025, the brand will further its commitment to the planet, launching a new 100% compostable poly bag that leaves no trace of detectable microplastics.
• Factories: matty m. primarily partners with advanced factories and vendors that are GRS certified, share its love for the environment, and take care of their employees.
• Brand Headquarters: In 2020, the matty m. team reflected on their personal and professional values, and took its first steps in evolving through a total renovation of their headquarters to align with the earth-friendly goals that the company holds dear. Upgrades include a closed water recycling system and the use of sugar cane-based paper for printing office materials, among other environmentally conscious advancements.

"We're proud to be doing our part, aligning the looks and quality of matty m. fashion with our values, and transforming the company for the better, connecting with women beyond the clothing," said Sanchez Meyer.

By taking these steps towards sustainability, matty m. is committed to advancing its sustainability practices even further, and poised to remain a leader in women's ready-to-wear market for years to come.

ABOUT MATTY M.™:

matty m.™ believes that a great garment can change a woman's life. With deliberate yet effortless designs, matty m. makes getting dressed easier by meticulously crafting each piece for versatility, timelessness, and ethical style.

Source matty m.

Wolverine and Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery Unveil Batch IV Of Their Collaboration 1000 Mile Boot

Elevating the art of craftsmanship to new heights, Wolverine®, the 141-year-old boot and clothing company, has once again joined forces with Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery just in time for Bourbon Heritage Month. Through their mutual dedication to superior quality, these two brands proudly unveil Batch IV of their Wolverine 1000 Mile x Old Rip Van Winkle Boot.

Inspired by the caramel and wood notes of Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year bourbon, the Batch IV boot was built on the silhouette of Wolverine's iconic 1000 Mile. First introduced in 1914, the 1000 Mile provides the perfect canvas for the continued partnership of Wolverine and Old Rip as they pour their distinct blend of heritage, craftmanship and quality into each product iteration.

"Working with the team at Old Rip continues to be a highlight of our year," stated Lauren King, Senior Director of Marketing at Wolverine Boots. "We constantly inspire each other through our unique, yet shared, brand ethos and design. Each pair of boots we've launched together has created a new take on our heritage product, drummed up energizing ways to connect to our audiences, and ignited enduring consumer demand. Batch IV is no different."

Tailored for the ultimate bourbon enthusiast, the Wolverine 1000 Mile x Old Rip Van Winkle Batch IV Boot is designed to age gracefully, much like the fine bourbon at Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. Each pair of these limited-edition boots features all the timeless 1000 Mile qualities:

• Lux leather uppers in a rich hue inspired by the full-bodied flavor profile of Old Rip Van Winkle 10-year.
• Built from the iconic 1000 Mile silhouette and finished with the added comfort, support, and style of a wedge sole.
• Uniquely labeled with hand-numbered Old Rip Van Winkle woven label on the tongue.
• Designed in Michigan and handcrafted in Arkansas, supporting American workers and manufacturing.

Combining their shared passion for supporting the hard-working hands behind handcrafted, a portion of proceeds from each pair of Wolverine x Old Rip Van Winkle Batch IV boots sold will be donated to SkillsUSA, the number one workforce development organization for students.

"It's always a pleasure working with the Wolverine Team," stated Preston Van Winkle, member of the Van Winkle Bourbon Family. "Wolverine is a brand that truly embodies our shared passion of quality craftsmanship behind the creation of every boot, much like the dedication we pour into our bourbon. This collaboration not only celebrates our mutual dedication to quality, but also underscores our joint support for continuing to champion America's workforce."

ABOUT WOLVERINE
Wolverine, the 141-year-old boot and clothing company, is on a mission to honor the spirit and tenacity of the American worker and build the next generation of skilled trades people. Taking pride in crafting durable boots with unrivaled craftsmanship and the highest quality materials, Wolverine is dedicated to serving hardworking people all over the world. Through Project Bootstrap, Wolverine has contributed over $2 million to organizations in support of the skilled trades. For more information, visit www.wolverine.com. Wolverine is a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NYSE: WWW)

ABOUT OLD RIP VAN WINKLE
The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery has a four-generation history, starting in the late 1800s with Julian P. "Pappy" Van Winkle Sr., and continuing today with Julian III and Preston Van Winkle. From its early roots as the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in South Louisville to the selling of the Distillery in 1972 while resurrecting the Old Rip Van Winkle label at the same time, and following with new, original expressions in the early 1980s, the Van Winkle story has been one of perseverance and survival. In 2002 the Van Winkles joined forces with Buffalo Trace Distillery in Franklin County, Frankfort, KY. All of the Van Winkle's whiskey production now takes place at Buffalo Trace Distillery under the same strict guidelines the family has always followed. For more information on the Van Winkle family of bourbon please visit oldripvanwinkle.com.

Source Wolverine

Ekouaer Debuts Collection at New York Fashion Week

Ekouaer made a stunning debut at New York Fashion Week on 8 September, unveiling two exquisite collections that captivated the audience with their unique take on women's loungewear. Adding to the allure of the event, supermodel Helena Christensen graced the runway, bringing an extra layer of sophistication and star power to the show.

Held at the iconic Cipriani 25 Broadway in New York, the show set the stage for a presentation that was as calming as it was elegant—perfectly encapsulating Ekouaer's mission to create a utopia of freedom, relaxation, and health.

The first collection, designed by Ekouaer's in-house team, emphasized a "less is more" philosophy, showcasing the beauty of simplicity and the power of understated elegance. Every piece was thoughtfully crafted to offer an "oxygen space" in the world of clothing—a sanctuary where women could forget life's troubles, escape work pressures, and rejuvenate their tired bodies. The luxurious, soft fabrics were carefully chosen not just for their comfort, but for their ability to gently embrace the wearer's inner essence, reminding them of the tranquility that Ekouaer strives to infuse into every garment.

The overarching theme was a return to authenticity—a call to escape the chaos of the outside world and reconnect with oneself. This collection was not merely about aesthetics but also about fostering a lifestyle where simplicity and comfort reign supreme. Each design was a cherished addition to any wardrobe, offering a tangible connection to Ekouaer's core values of authenticity, comfort, and inner peace. It was a celebration of the comfort found in being true to oneself—a reflection of Ekouaer's dedication to guiding people back to a long-lost sense of authenticity and leisure.

The second collection was the result of a collaboration with Isabella Cortese, the co-founder of Nube Studio in Barcelona. An Italian designer with an impressive background, Cortese graduated from the prestigious IED Moda Milano and has built a career that includes notable roles such as apparel graphic designer at Moncler and head graphic designer at A Better Mistake. Her collaboration with Ekouaer brought a fresh perspective to the show, blending her rich imagination with the brand's commitment to timelessness.

Cortese's designs were deeply inspired by nature, with flowers serving as the central motif. The collection beautifully captured three distinct moments of blooming during the spring-summer journey: the early morning mist, the golden sunset, and the serene midnight. Each piece was not just a garment but an invitation to savor life's quieter moments—a core mission of Ekouaer.

Through delicate floral prints, Cortese expressed the passage of time and the evolving emotions that accompany it. The result was a range that felt both deeply personal and universally appealing, syncing the wearer's breath with the rhythm of nature and offering a moment of tranquility amid the busyness of daily life. These designs were more than just fashion statements; they were an embodiment of Ekouaer's vision of creating an oasis of calm and authenticity in a fast-paced world.

The models on the runway embodied this natural elegance, with floral elements seamlessly integrated into their looks. Their graceful postures and the subtle yet impactful designs highlighted the quiet strength and charm that the collection sought to evoke.

Whether at home or on the road, these pieces offered a connection to nature and a reminder of the beauty that can be found in simplicity—a true testament to Ekouaer's dedication to crafting an "oxygen space" in fashion.

Ekouaer's debut at New York Fashion Week was more than just a fashion show—it was a celebration of inner peace, authenticity, and the timeless allure of nature. With these two collections, the brand has successfully introduced a new kind of luxury that speaks to the soul and resonates deeply with those seeking comfort and style in their everyday lives.

This momentous occasion in Ekouaer's journey towards global recognition highlighted the brand's commitment to its mission: to inspire and connect with audiences worldwide by offering them a sanctuary of tranquility in the form of fashion.

Source Ekouaer

Stonyfield Organic Drops a SWEET THREADS Back-to-School Apparel Collection

Stonyfield Organic Drops a SWEET THREADS Back-to-School Apparel Collection Made of... Sugarcane as they Celebrate First-Ever Kid's Zero Grams of Sugar Added Dairy Yogurt Pouch Offered in the Industry.

Stonyfield Organic, the country's leading organic yogurt maker, is launching Stonyfield Kids ZEROg Sugar Added Pouches just in time for back-to-school season. With the launch of their new Kids ZEROg Sugar Added Pouches, the only Kids' dairy yogurt pouch with zero grams of added sugar on the market, Stonyfield is releasing Sweet Threads, a limited-edition clothing collection made from sugarcane textile to emphasize that while your kid's back-to-school wardrobe may be made of sugarcane, your kids' lunch shouldn't be.

Stonyfield's Sweet Threads collection features four thoughtfully designed pieces for parents and kids made of 100% sugarcane textiles. The collection includes three kid's short sleeve tee shirts printed with colorful graphic designs and playful text, and an adult long sleeve tee shirt perfect to wear to school drop off. All pieces are created using sugarcane textile which is derived from sugarcane plants.

The limited-edition clothing collection is made of 100% polylactic acid (PLA), a plant-based bioplastic that can be made from renewable materials like sugarcane plants. The production process involves extracting cellulose from sugarcane stalks, which is then spun into fibers and woven into fabric, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional polyester.

Stonyfield's brand-new Kids' ZEROg Added Sugar Yogurt Pouches are a convenient, affordable, and nutritious option this back-to-school season. Perfect for on-the-go breakfasts, lunch boxes, or after-school snacks, parents can feel confident they are providing kids with a nutritious, organic yogurt without sacrificing taste, so even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy. The organic ZEROg Added Sugar Yogurt Pouches come in delicious flavors like Blueberry Apple Carrot and Banilla (Banana and Vanilla) and are available now at select grocery stores nationwide for $1.99 (single serve) and $6.99 (4-count pack).

"When August rolls around, you can expect to find Stonyfield pouches in kids' lunchboxes but this year, and we want to be an even bigger part of your back-to-school routines," said Elizabeth Conover, Stonyfield Brand Director. "With the launch of Sweet Threads, Stonyfield is calling attention to the importance of our nutritious, ZEROg Added Sugar offering in a fun, interactive way that both parents and kids can enjoy. Parents shouldn't have to worry about how much sugar is in their kid's yogurt. So, we put sugarcane in their clothes instead as a fun way to remind parents about our new zero grams of sugar added offering."

About Stonyfield Organic

As the country's leading organic yogurt maker, Stonyfield believes that taking care of organic farmers, cows, and their life's work will produce healthy food, healthy businesses, and a healthy planet. Stonyfield, a Certified B-Corp, is also making a difference by helping to protect and preserve the next generation of farmers and families through programs like its Direct Milk Supply and Wolfe's Neck Organic Training Program as well as #PlayFree, a nationwide, multi-year initiative to help keep families free from toxic persistent pesticides in outdoor spaces across the country.

Source Stonyfield Organic

Perry Ellis and Original Penguin Announce Partnership Expansion with University of Miami Athletics

Perry Ellis, the globally renowned fashion brand, and Original Penguin, a renowned lifestyle brand recognized for its timeless style, are excited to announce the expansion of their partnership with University of Miami Athletics. This continued collaboration highlights the brands' steadfast commitment to promoting athletic excellence while cultivating community partnerships in their hometown. Through this partnership, Perry Ellis, Original Penguin and the Miami Hurricanes set the stage to achieve significant milestones in collegiate sports through new fan-focused initiatives at various events throughout the year.

"We're incredibly excited to continue our support of the University of Miami Athletics through new collaborations that will bring us closer to the greater campus community," said Oscar Feldenkreis, CEO of Perry Ellis International. "As a longtime Hurricane partner, I'm pleased to align our brands with the resilience and determination of the University of Miami's student-athletes."

As part of the collaboration, the brands will serve as Official Partners of University of Miami Athletics and will expand their presence at Miami Hurricane athletic events including football, basketball and baseball games, tennis matches and more.

The partnership will feature a range of unique initiatives including an immersive ambassador program featuring student-athlete brand ambassadors from a variety of Hurricane athletic teams. The enhanced collaboration will also include a Community Suits program, an initiative that looks to outfit students with professional attire to ensure they are dressed for success off the field and off campus.

In conjunction with University of Miami Athletics, Perry Ellis and Original Penguin will develop robust fan engagement programs including pre-game and in-game activations such as fashion makeovers for fans, tailgate experiences before games and a stimulating Fan Zone experience for fans of all ages.

During the football season, Perry Ellis and Original Penguin will add a new twist to the pre-game tailgate with the introduction of a pickleball court outside of Hard Rock Stadium. The innovative activation will provide fans with a unique and exciting opportunity to play pickleball while experiencing Perry Ellis and Original Penguin's rich sports heritage and ties to the South Florida community.

"We're thrilled to be continuing this relationship with the Perry Ellis family," said Chris Maragno, Senior Vice President of Global Partnership for Miami Hurricanes. "With the help of Perry Ellis and Original Penguin we're looking forward to the continued development of our program for our student-athletes and the elevation of fan experiences that will continue to make the Miami Hurricanes' fan experience unforgettable. We look forward to an exciting 2024-2025 athletic season."

About An Original Penguin® by Munsingwear®

In 1955, Minneapolis-based Munsingwear – an underwear and military supply company – ironically became the touchstone of suburban sport with the introduction of the first iconic golf shirt to America – an ORIGINAL PENGUIN. Known for its unique, humorous and detail-oriented clothing, Original Penguin offers a full range of men's, women's and children's clothing, accessories and fragrances. Original Penguin is present in North, Central and South Americas, Europe as well as India and the Philippines. There are over 1,250 points of sale, more than 99 Original Penguin stores worldwide and two dedicated e-commerce websites: originalpenguin•com and originalpenguin•co•uk.

About Legends

Founded in 2008, Legends is a premium experiences company with six divisions operating worldwide – Global Planning, Global Sales, Global Partnerships, Hospitality, Global Merchandise, and Global Technology Solutions – offering clients and partners a 360-degree data and analytics fueled service solution platform to elevate their brand and execute their vision. Currently, Legends works with marquee clients across business verticals including professional sports; collegiate; attractions; entertainment; and conventions and leisure. We are the industry leaders in designing, planning and realizing exceptional experiences in sports and entertainment. For more information, visit Legends.net and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @TheLegendsWay.

About Perry Ellis International

Perry Ellis International, Inc. is a leading designer, distributor, and licensor of a broad line of high quality men's and women's apparel, accessories, and fragrances. The company's collection of dress and casual shirts, golf sportswear, sweaters, dress pants, casual pants and shorts, jeans wear, active wear, dresses, and men's and women's swimwear is available through all major levels of retail distribution. The company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, owns a portfolio of nationally and internationally recognized brands, including: Perry Ellis®, An Original Penguin by Munsingwear®, Laundry by Shelli Segal®, Rafaella®, Cubavera®, Ben Hogan®, Savane®, Grand Slam®, John Henry®, Manhattan®, Axist® and Farah®. The company enhances its roster of brands by licensing trademarks from third parties, including: Nike® for swimwear, and Callaway®, PGA TOUR®, and Jack Nicklaus® for golf apparel. Additional information on the company is available at pery•com.

University of Miami Athletics

The University of Miami's Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), supports more than 400 student-athletes across 18 sports. Miami has won 21 team national championships and 85 individual national championships in its storied history. UM Athletics is dedicated to developing and supporting its student-athletes in their efforts to achieve personal, academic and athletic excellence, resulting in the highest standards of achievement. For more information visit miamihurricanes•com.

Source Perry Ellis International

Retro Stage Unveils Designer-Inspired Clothing Collection

Retro Stage, a vintage fashion brand known for its unique takes on timeless 20th-century styles, recently announced the launch of their latest collection, which is inspired by real fashion sketches made by iconic designers from the last hundred years.

The collection focuses primarily on styles inspired by the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, featuring popular motifs from these eras such as vibrant colors, bold patterns, and defined waistlines. Notably, Retro Stage has also released high-quality images of the design team's original sketches for each piece in the collection.

"The most fundamental step in designing is creating a sketch," said the Retro Stage team, "and we're excited to pay tribute to this underappreciated aspect of fashion history with our new collection. It's exhilarating to think about the fact that we're going through the same process as all the great designers that came before us. Immersing ourselves in those raw illustrations really helps us get into the right headspace to create new vintage pieces, and at the end of the day, that's what Retro Stage has always been about—keeping these aesthetics in the spotlight and giving them a chance to be loved by a modern audience."

Retro Stage's designers stated that their approach to this collection was, naturally, focusing on designer sketches as their inspiration. After compiling a diverse array of material from famous figures like Christian Dior and Marjorie Field, they noted which design elements stuck out as being the most interesting and what traits seem to have defined the trends of the time. From there, these elements were carefully combined with modern motifs to create looks that represent something entirely separate from the past or present. Each piece is, in essence, made to feel timelessly beautiful.

This collection brings illustrations to life in the form of comfortable short dresses and flattering swimsuits that are perfect for summertime leisure. Every last detail is painstakingly crafted to be faithful to—and sometimes to improve on—the concept sketches in order to accurately reflect the designers' intentions. A selection of highlights hand-picked by the Retro Stage team can be found below.

• The 1940s Double-Strap Pleated Roses One-Piece Swimsuit combines vivid florals with scraps of Latin text for a beautiful effect. A panel of ruched green fabric along each side of the torso serves to accentuate the wearer's curves and elongate their silhouette. The whole piece is finished off with criss-crossing double straps, a detail that actually differs from the original sketch and shows the garment's evolution.
• The 1950s Polka-Dot Halter Dress is a classic look done right, with its red-and-white polka-dot fabric embodying the spirit of '50s elegance. Overall, this dress keeps things clean and simple, featuring a halter neckline that ties into a bow at the back of the neck as well as a white belt to define the waist and draw in the eye. This is an excellent piece to wear out on a daytime date or while socializing with friends and family at a picnic.
• The Black 1950s Cherry Bow V-Neck Swimsuit brings vintage swimwear into the modern day, showcasing a bold V-neckline, skort-style bottoms, and a vivid cherry print. Small bow accents at the base of each strap give this two-piece a youthful, romantic feel that reflects the flirtatious tone of the initial sketch. Whether the agenda includes relaxing at the pool or sunbathing in the sand, this suit is sure to have heads turning.
• Lastly, the 1960s Crew Bowknot Sleeveless Dress brings back that signature '60s mod chic in an explosion of orange and white. Simple enough to be a swimsuit coverup but stylish enough to wear on the street, this garment brings the attitude of its concept sketch to the forefront with its flouncy pleated skirt and asymmetrical bow.

Those interested in this exciting collection are encouraged to head to the Retro Stage website to explore the full range of brand-new fashion options available to them. Retro Stage would like to extend their gratitude to customers old and new as they continue pursuing their mission of fusing vintage charm with contemporary flair to create innovative, never-before-seen garments that each tell their own story.

About Retro Stage

Retro Stage is a popular vintage fashion brand featuring classic clothing and accessories inspired by 20th-century aesthetics. As a vintage style pioneer, Retro Stage is more than a brand; it's a way of life, helping every customer explore the history of fashion through chic and glamorous retro style. "Beauty never fades," said the Retro Stage team. "All we want to do is encourage women to build a better life for themselves and confidently embrace their natural allure."

Source Retro Stage

Reese Cooper Unveils RCOS Collection in partnership with Pacsun, Bridging Streetwear and Outdoor Exploration

Reese Cooper is pleased to introduce RC Outdoor Supply (RCOS), a new line under the Reese Cooper label made possible with the support of retailer Pacsun. Inspired by his appreciation of the beauty and inclusiveness of California's outdoor culture, the origin of the RCOS collection traces back to late 2021 when Cooper began quietly developing a line of outdoor products in addition to his runway collections. Founded on a shared enthusiasm for adventure and the outdoors, Cooper and Pacsun saw an opportunity to bring Cooper's design aesthetic to the Pacsun community at an accessible price point, infusing the spirit of exploration into clothing.

"At Pacsun, we believe in the power of co-creation to inspire, connect, and make a positive impact," said Richard Cox, VP of Men's Merchandising and Global Partnerships at Pacsun. "Our collaboration with Reese explores fashion inspired by the outdoor lifestyle and technical innovation, while also nodding to Americana and the fits that resonate with our customers." A percentage of sales of RCOS products sold by Pacsun and Cooper's own channels will be donated to a network of partners and organizations that encourage outdoor exploration and nature preservation such as One Tree Planted, an organization Cooper has consistently partnered with.

The first release under the RCOS label lays a framework for future collections of the brand by creating systems of dressing and inspired by Cooper's collaborators. The in-studio lookbook was shot by friends of the brand, Cam Hicks & Juliana Salazar. Rooted in the duality of lifestyles of city dwellers and nature lovers, the collection takes inspiration from both to create garments that are viable in both environments. The brand's visual campaign follows this same ethos; shot by photographer Stefan Kohli alongside Reese and a group of friends on a six day road trip along the Pacific Coast, the images tell an honest story of enthusiasts having fun and exploring nature.

"As someone who has always been in awe of the outdoors, especially living in California, I wanted this collection to be as accessible as possible like the environments it is inspired by," said Cooper. "Designed and influenced with my friends in mind, the ethos of RCOS is to create product that holds up in all environments, for any activity, whether that's running around in the city or on a mountain. These products are for any and everyone. This is stuff you're supposed to get dirty, and most importantly, have fun while doing so. When it comes to outdoor activities, l'm an enthusiast, not a professional. I strongly believe it's important to explore new things, learn new places, get out of your comfort zone. I wanted this collection to give you the tools to help you do that."

With an emphasis on exploration and activity, each piece is created with careful attention to detail and quality materials. The collection offers a wide range of styles from taped-seam shell pieces, insulated outerwear, and cargo pants to graphic tees, hoodies, sweatpants and more. Made with technical fabrics like nylon, sherpa fleece, waffle knits, heavyweight cottons and compression. Cooper's trademarked Hook is also featured on a number of pieces, along with a detailed and unique trim system, including custom rock pullers, zippers and speed belts, as well as special branded buttons, toggles and labels inside each garment. These designs are an accumulation of years of previously unrealized experimentation and ideation that could now be realized through the Pacsun partnership.

The RCOS collection will be available in a complete range of sizes from XXS to XXL, opening up the path for anyone to journey in.

RCOS will be available from August 9, 2024 at Pacsun.com and Pacsun stores nationwide, and through Cooper's new website for the brand, rcoutdoorsupply•com. Select global retailers will also carry a selection of pieces, extending the reach of the label and desire to explore.

About Reese Cooper

Founded in 2016, Reese Cooper is the designer's namesake brand known for its tailored take on classic American outdoor and utility wear with a focus on material quality and construction. Raised in Atlanta & London, Cooper moved to Los Angeles at the age of 18 to learn the ins and outs of garment manufacturing firsthand. In 2019, the brand was awarded runner up in the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund in 2019, making him the youngest ever finalist and Reese was included in Forbes 30 Under 30 in the following year. Cooper has collaborated with esteemed industry giants like Levi's and Merrell. As a continued commitment to environmental reforestation, Reese Cooper contributes to the One Tree Planted initiative for every item sold.

About Pacsun:

Pacsun is a purpose-driven, leading specialty retailer offering a cross section of emerging brands and trending fashion through the lens of youth culture. Delivering the latest contemporary, streetwear, and activewear, Pacsun partners with the best brands at the intersection of fashion, music, art, and sport to offer curated collections, rare and exclusive products, and creative collaborations on every level to inspire the next generation. Founded in 1980 in Newport, CA, Pacsun is now co-created in Los Angeles.

Source Pacsun

Chatrium Hospitality Announces Collaboration with Circular to Produce Sustainable Employee Polo Shirts

In a significant step towards environmental responsibility, Chatrium Hospitality has partnered with Circular, a pioneering clothing recycling company, as part of its commitment to sustainability and ecological conservation. The new initiative, "From Trash to Treasure," marks a significant step in the hospitality group's journey towards a greener future.

Circular specialises in collecting and recycling old clothes, diverting them from landfills and transforming them into stylish garments. This innovative process not only promotes environmental consciousness and reduces textile waste but also eliminates the need for additional dyeing, significantly reducing water usage, harmful chemicals, and CO2 emissions, contributing to a more sustainable and ethical approach to fashion.

By joining forces with Circular, Chatrium aims to minimise its environmental footprint and contribute to the global effort to combat textile waste under the "From Trash to Treasure" initiative. This year, the collaboration will see the production of employee polo shirts made from recycled materials, showcasing Chatrium's continued dedication to sustainable practices.

"At Chatrium Hospitality, we are dedicated to creating a positive impact on the environment," said Pariyarat Chunlakittiphan Corporate Director of Human Resources designation at Chatrium Hospitality. "The 'From Trash to Treasure' campaign allows us to promote environmental consciousness and empower our guests to also be part of the solution."

Chatrium Hospitality invites everyone to join them on this exciting journey as they turn discarded clothing into beautiful treasures, making a meaningful difference for our planet.