http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/ Out on a Limb is the UK's most authoritative magazine for current news, innovations and products for the directional footwear and accessories industry. en-uk Copyright Wharncliffe Publishing Limited 2008 2008-11-04 09:12:12 2008-11-04 09:12:12 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/ http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/images/rsslogo.gif http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-11 KENNETH Cole has been presented with the Humanitarian Designer Award at the Islands of the World Fashion Week. Owen Bethel, president of Mode ÃŽles, founder and organisers of the event, said: 'In keeping with the event's focus on the global issues of the education of youth and poverty alleviation, it was felt that no other fashion designer personified so explicitly the concern for these issues through their creative integration in his designs and marketing initiatives. 'His innovative approach to addressing and drawing attention to the issues is both outstanding and poignant." Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-11-04 09:12:12 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-11 A NEW website has launched that allows you to update your jewellery collection without spending a fortune. Blubangle.com offers a completely new subscription-based jewellery service that allows customers to borrow a range of high quality fashion items including necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings for a fraction of the price that it would cost to purchase them. Subscribers can choose from four subscription levels starting at £14.99 per month, which allows them to borrow up to £200 worth of jewellery.  Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-11-04 09:11:13 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-10 THE Colour Studio at Rainbow Club is going from strength to strength, as more girls are opting to have shoes dyed not only for weddings but also for other special occasions. The rise in popularity of end of school 'proms' - once an American preserve, means that more and more girls are looking for something special, and different, to make them stand out. The Colour Studio has years of expertise in hand colouring shoes and bags perfectly, and can guarantee colour matching when colouring shoes or bags from the extensive ranges at Rainbow Club. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-10-01 15:51:55 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-10 SARA Ratcliffe is aiming to create a new look in men's bags and accessories using bold colours and cartoon style design. The Royal College of Art student has studied traditional leather goods techniques and worked as a freelance designer for three years before deciding to take her masters. She said: 'I love accessories as I see them as part of an overall look. I am all about colour and always think about the range of shades before the design, but everything could also work in more muted, toned down versions. 'I want to create things that stand out first and that are commercialised and saleable second.' Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-10-01 15:51:21 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-09 A THIRD of the UK footwear industry has been pushed to the brink of failure by low growth, sliding profits and escalating debts, according to research. The findings were released by industry analysts Plimsoll Publishing which carried out a financial health check for the top 1,000 companies in the footwear sector. The findings revealed that supply is outstripping demand and also claimed that all companies are facing a difficult trade off between protecting profit margins and appealing to price sensitive customers. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-09-10 17:15:54 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-09 Cambridgeshire's Advance Performance running store has been shortlisted at the British Small Business Champions Awards 2008. The BSBC Awards targets companies with under 50 employees, and aims to celebrate and recognise the achievements of the UK's small business sector. Advance Performance was selected as an Area Finalist from 270 companies across Central Britain; an area stretching across 20 counties. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-09-10 17:11:39 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-08 LONDON boutique Lollipop has announced the launch of its own shoe collection. The new range has been developed by store director Laura Allnatt and Cordwainers trained designer Rachele Davies and will be sold wholesale as well as being stocked in the boutique. Laura said: 'The idea to create my own range has been evolving in my head since opening the shop three years ago. 'I felt that my experience at shop floor level helped me understand what women were looking for and what they felt was missing from the market. 'When I was buying for Lollipop I was getting frustrated with what was available and felt that there was a need for a medium price point collection combining desirable colours and textures with wearable designs.' Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-08-05 10:35:26 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-08 FOOTWEAR design graduate Philippa Stanton has been awarded first prize at Italy's Lineapelle Awards with a creation inspired by Darwin's theory of evolution. The De Montfort University student entered her 'Shoevolution' design, a shoe that can be turned into a boot. She said: 'I wanted to create a shoe that evolves with the trends instead of just being replaced for the latest fashion every season. 'Rather than buying a whole new boot, you can just buy the updates. 'The design is eco friendly because it avoids the 'throw away' culture that has developed and I think it also taps into a return to a desire for long lasting quality rather than cheaper but shortlived items.' Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-08-05 10:34:56 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-07 INDEPENDENT retailers have been told to prepare for a tough five years after a new report predicts footwear sales are expected to plummet by seven per cent. The research, by Mintel, said the number of pairs bought annually in the UK is expected to drop to 216million pairs - with a definite shift away from cheaper, budget shoes. A third of women questioned admitted they would pay more for quality shoes that will last - which researchers say should provide hope for the independents. Researcher Katrin Magnussen said: 'I can't see an immediate demise of value shoes. The shoe wear market seems to be increasingly polarised; women are happy to pay extra for good quality shoes that last years, whilst at the same time they admit to being happy to buy value shoes that are discarded after each season." Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-07-01 14:32:34 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-07 By Louise Cordell LUXURY shoe retailer Kurt Geiger has changed hands in a £95m management buy-out, financed by Graphite Capital. Kurt Geiger, which was voted 'Coolest Shoe Brand' by Vogue readers in 2007, sells its own brands, which include Kurt Geiger, KG and Carvela, as well as luxury ranges by designers such as Prada, Gucci and Jimmy Choo. Retailers include top department stores including Harrods, Selfridges, House of Fraser, John Lewis and Liberty. It also has 16 of its own stores, six airport outlets, international concessions in Printemps in France and La Rinascente in Italy and a range of licensing, wholesaling and franchising operations. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-07-01 14:31:38 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-06 FOOTWEAR retailers have been told they need to be more imaginative to win customers from high street stores. Research by market analysts Verdict - part of the Datamonitor Group - said despite rising costs, footwear shops are unable to raise prices due to the high level of competition in the market - particularly from clothing retailers. Retail analyst Carol Ratcliffe said: 'Specialists have fought against the growing competition by opening new stores to fuel sales growth but, with sector profitability sliding, this is compounding their problems.  "Footwear retailers need to focus on improving sales densities in their existing stores before adding new outlets. While many have already invested in developing new store formats, they need to accelerate these efforts to catch up with the rising standards set by clothing specialists.' Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-06-03 09:36:00 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-06 INDEPENDENT retailers have been told to prepare for a tough five years after a new report predicts footwear sales are expected to plummet by seven per cent. The research, by Mintel, said the number of pairs bought annually in the UK is expected to drop to 216million pairs - with a definite shift away from cheaper, budget shoes. A third of women questioned admitted they would pay more for quality shoes that will last - which researchers say should provide hope for the independents. Researcher Katrin Magnussen said: 'I can't see an immediate demise of value shoes. The shoe wear market seems to be increasingly polarised; women are happy to pay extra for good quality shoes that last years, whilst at the same time they admit to being happy to buy value shoes that are discarded after each season." Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-06-03 09:35:22 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-05 CHILDREN'S footwear brand, Buckle My Shoe is set to make its TV debut as part of a £400,000 advertising campaign. A series of 30-second commercials will be screened across the most popular children's channels on both terrestrial and satellite TV this summer. The campaign has been planned for August and September in order to coincide with one of the peak buying times for stockiest. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-05-02 10:21:28 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-05 CONVERSE have unveiled rock and roll icons Sid Vicious, Ian Curtis, MIA and Karen O as the faces of their new Connectivity advertising campaign. Connectivity aims to celebrate the Converse centennial with an artistic showcase of original artists who have defined and worn the brand throughout the past century. Other faces featured in the campaign include James Dean, hip hop star Common, journalist Jefferson Hack and Dwayne Wade. Sneaker enthusiasts can also visit the new look store to view exclusive Converse styles and limited edition collections. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-05-02 10:20:44 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-04 THE Society of Shoefitters has announced its student of the year. Charlotte Duffett is the youngest ever winner of the Fisher George Memorial Trophy. She has worked for Gibbs of Ely, Cambridgeshire - a chain of family shoe shops owned by Kate Gibb - for seven years and is now assistant manager. Charlotte receives the trophy for a year and a smaller version to keep, and a valet box inscribed with her name (donated by Dasco - Dunkelman & Son Ltd.) A spokesman said: 'Sadly many shoe shops do not offer their staff such a high level of staff training or their customers a professional shoe fitting service, but those that do are proud of their achievement and sell shoes that don't come back, to people who do. 'Ill fitting footwear affects our entire physiology. The bones in the foot do not ossify (become hardened) until around the age of 18 (later for boys) and therefore tremendous damage can be done to feet in their formative years which can create many other associated problems in later life. Aches and pains in legs, hips, back and neck can all be attributed to footwear that do not fit properly, even migraine is a symptom from which many suffer. Correctly fitted footwear at any age is therefore preventative medicine which could save the NHS a fortune in wasted GP and hospital appointments.' The Society of Shoe Fitters was founded in 1959 and is a not-for-profit organisation that provides a shoe fitting qualification and instore training for footwear retailers and suppliers. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-04-01 10:23:03 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-03 MEN'S footwear brand Base London has announced the winner of its Steve McQueen themed design competition. The contest was run during the winter term for second year footwear design students at De Montfort University. They were asked to develop and produce a range of commercial footwear using the iconic Steve McQueen as inspiration, recreating his image, style and intensity for 2008. Taking the McQueen films 'Bullitt' and 'Le Mans' as starting points, the students developed two ranges of contemporary men's footwear. It was judged by Base London's head designer Antoine Delapierre (who mentored the students during the project), licensing manager Liz Lawley, and junior designer Gemma Vallance, a former De Montfort University Footwear Design student. Antoine said: 'The quality of the work that the students have produced was very high and showed an incredible amount of effort that has been put in. The designs all showed individual creative touches as well as commercial aspects, the students and the university should be very proud.' The winning range, by Rachael Liddle saw a modern contemporary monk shoe infused with bright colour and McQueen's iconic pose, lasered on the sole. Rachel's designs focused on combining McQueen's 'cool guy image' and the use of modern colours and detailing to appeal to a 'regular-kind-of-guy'. The winning students were Rachel Liddle (first); Isabel Proctor (second) and Natasha Blanchard (third.) All received cash prizes as well as work experience at Base London head office. Base London also contributed to the De Montfort travel fund to assist with the courses educational trips. Antoine added: 'It is so important for the students to be able to visit places to gain inspiration and get a real feel for the industry, we are always very keen to encourage the development of the future of the British footwear industry and helping to fund their travel is a good way to do this.' Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-03-03 11:03:53 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-02 FASHION footwear, handbags and accessories from the beaches of Australia are being brought to the UK by Holster. From its beachfront base in Queensland, the company combines contemporary design, traditional materials and hand crafting to offer a wide range of sandals, boots, belts, necklaces and cuffs. Inspiration for the collection is taken from the natural world with traditional materials used including leather, mother-of-pearl, shells, crystal, resin, wood and coconut shell. Company Director, Melanie Rollinson, said: “We have had an extremely positive reaction in the UK from consumers and retailers alike. “Our strongest line this year has been the range of jelly shoes, followed by the more expensive quality leather sandals and we expect this to be the case next season as well. “The accessories range is also doing well, although the Coco Stretch Belt has without a doubt been the most popular. “It reached the final five shortlist in the Fashion Accessories Gift of the Year UK Awards and we have already been receiving re-orders from accounts opened just a few months ago.” Selfridges and Fenwicks department stores have now taken on the Holster range and celebrities including Kristy Hinze, Sophie Monk and the Duchess of Kent have all been spotted wearing the brand. Melanie added: “More recently we have added a line of sheepskin boots which we are very excited about, we think it is going to be a line that will do very well for Holster in the future. “We were quite late bringing it in for the AW season this year, but we still got a lot of interest from smaller shops in particular that had not completed their winter buying. “The feedback so far has been brilliant and people have been very enthusiastic about the styles and quality, so we are sure it will be even more successful next year.” Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-02-07 14:55:48 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 UK retailer Schuh have relaunched their online shoe store with a range of new features and enhancements. Schuh is one of the leading fashion footwear retailers in the UK, with 46 stand along stores across the country and more openings planned for this year and early 2008. Their full range features current and eclectic style trends for men and women, including shoes from designers such as Birkenstock, Base, Red or Dead and Rocket Dog. Schuh have introduced a variety of new features to the site to improve the overall shopping experience. Every shoe on the site, over 35,000 styles from 90 brands, is now illustrated with eight high quality images and a new zoom facility. More new additions include a ‘recently viewed’ feature which generates a clickable list of the last six items viewed, the ‘alternative styles’ function which offers a further nine similar designs and the ‘advanced search’ tool, which allows surfers to browse by categories, brand, colour, size or price. An express delivery option is now available, allowing customers to have their shoes delivered the next working day. There is also the option of having purchases delivered to a customers nearest store and picked up free of charge. Finally, the ‘store stock check’ function instantly tells customers whether their local store has their choice of shoes in stock and in the correct size. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-10 15:45:30 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 A HOSPITAL has banned theatre nurses from wearing Crocs shoes, suggesting they might be dangerous. Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust said that the coloured clogs might pose a health and safety or infection risk. However, they denied they were worried about recent reports that static electricity build-up caused by the shoes could disrupt medical equipment. A spokesperson for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals said staff were expected to uphold a dress code, which was in place to prevent infection, maintain health and safety and keep a professional image. Theatre staff had also already been told to stop wearing the most popular variety of Crocs, those with holes in the top or side, because of risk of injury from falling scalpels and needles, or the risk of catching an infection from blood or fluids dropping through the holes. However, she said that there was no extra infection risk to patients as a result, and styles without the holes were allowed. She said that the trust would be working with staff unions and foundation trust governors to discuss whether the policy could change to include Crocs. In April, a hospital in Sweden banned the shoes after three incidents in which static electricity from staff wearing them was discharged into medical equipment, causing it to malfunction. However, the Sheffield spokesperson said that no similar incidents had sparked concern in the UK and Crocs have since reported that Swedish hospital have reversed their decision banning Crocs from the wards. Roy Mclean, the chief executive of Ward Walkers, which distributes the shoes in the UK, said that some styles were perfect for clinical use. "The advantage of the Crocs is that they can be washed in a mild bleach solution without any damage - unlike the majority of other shoes used by hospital staff.” Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-10 15:45:25 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2008-01 HUSH Puppies is celebrating its 50th birthday this year and the 12 month celebration, '50 Years of Casual Style' will be taking place in over 140 countries. Events will include birthday parties, in-store events, charity promotions and fundraising, all designed to thank customers and retailers for their support over the last half century. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2008-01-10 15:44:55 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 A FOOTWEAR collection which is a favourite with women in the States is heading to the UK and will be previewing at Pure this Summer. BC Footwear, which originates from California, mixes vintage and current fashion with a youthful flair and is stocked in popular US boutique Kush and fashion stores including Urban Outfitters and Nordstream. It is being brought into the UK by seasoned distributors Jackal and BC shoes will be previewing their SS08 collection at Pure this summer. Dave Ross from Jackal said: “We’re delighted to be bringing BC footwear to the UK, it’s such a special brand that attracted us immediately. “BC really stood out to us as a stylish offer to the UK market. We saw how popular the brand was in the US, among celebrities and shoppers alike, and we can’t wait to preview the new summer collection at Pure in August.” Current highlights this year include the aptly named ‘Beauty Queen’ - a printed peep toe pump with cute bow detail, acid bright patent sandals, metallic leathers and the totally original ‘Coast To Coast’ - a canvas button up pump. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-02 09:45:15 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 ON-LINE fashion and footwear companies are risking penalties because they are not meeting basic legal requirements with their websites, according to a leading legal expert. A survey of well-known UK fashion websites carried out by Fox Williams found that many businesses are failing to comply with basic on-line laws. It found that 88 per cent of websites collect data about users via input forms such as when users register with the site to make a purchase or simply to feedback comments. By law, these companies are required to notify their details and the purposes for which they collect this information to the Information Commissioner. However, Fox Williams found that 42 per cent of companies that collect personal data have not notified under the Data Protection Act. It was also found that the websites faired even worse in respect of other basic requirements of the Data Protection Act. While 70 per cent of the websites provided a privacy policy, only 36 per cent of sites contained the required information about the use of cookies. Thirty three per cent of sites were found not to give their full legal name and 64 per cent of sites did not show their VAT number. Overall, the survey suggests that fashion companies are giving a very low level of priority to ensuring that their websites comply with basic legal diligence. Nigel Miller, Fox Williams e-business partner,said: “The low levels of legal compliance are astonishing. Our survey shows that even well-known brands are failing to consider the legal implications of doing business on-line or simply having a web site.” Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-02 09:45:09 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 STAFF at one of the UK’s biggest indoor shopping centres traded in their uniform loathers for funkier and greener footwear as part of World Environment Day. Customer service staff and security at the Trafford Centre in Manchester changed their footwear for a week leading up to World Environment Day. They wore ‘Simple’ shoes which are 100 per cent carbon neutral and sustainable. The shoes from the Green Toe range are all made from natural or recycled materials such as cork, bamboo, natural crepe, latex and recycled car tyres. Female staff members wore either the ‘GT Jane’ - made from wood, latex, cotton canvas and car tyres - or the ‘Toe Jam’ - a natural laytex pedbed with cotton canvass upper. Male staff members wore the ‘Sloppy Toe’, the slip on Shuf loafer and the flip flop ‘Toe Foo’ made from cotton, crepe rubber and cork. Alison Reid, head of The Trafford Centre Green Scheme, said: “Everyone at The Trafford Centre is eager to do their bit, and although regulations mean that we cannot wear these fantastic shoes while we are on duty, we shall certainly have them on our feet in our free time. “Creating awareness of the steps you can take as a member of the public to help the environment is vital, and if our staff wearing these 100 per cent sustainable shoes hits home, then it is a fantastic start.” Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-02 09:45:03 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-10 THE majority of the outdoor sports and walking population will step out in the wrong footwear this summer, claims an online retailer. ExtremeGB.com, an outdoor and extreme sports equipment retailer, conducted research which found that around 85 per cent of walkers and extreme sports fans wear the wrong size or type of shoes. The retailers says that only a small percentage actually check their shoe size and even fewer research the purpose and use of shoe when buying sports or outdoor footwear. Edward Giles of ExtremeGB.com believes that the vast majority of outdoor enthusiasts are causing themselves unnecessary discomfort and pain because they are not taking care when choosing shoes. He said: “The vast majority of outdoor enthusiasts are wearing the wrong size or type of shoes - and the pain they maybe accept as normal is actually completely unnecessary. "There are several key issues which can result in a number of conditions or injuries, all of which severely compromise mobility - but while a foot or ankle niggle may be just that around the house or travelling to work, it can be anything from a holiday- wrecker to a life-threatening matter if you're any sort of outdoor enthusiast.” He says that when buying outdoor shoes, customers should buy the best pair they can and think more about what use they want and need out of their footwear. "The right sort of shoe should feel supremely comfortable, whether at the beginning or end of your activity. On dry land - or occasionally very wet land - shoes and boots should support the ankles and sole. Tight enough to be painful is most definitely not 'support'. “The key point is that people still think that because an outdoor shoe looks the part, it can play the part. Completely false. There is no such thing as a good, cheap, outdoor shoe. A good shoe or boot will cost, but boy, will you notice the difference." Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-10-02 09:45:00 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-08 LEADING running shoe specialist Saucony is set to build on its unprecedented success in 2007 with its Spring 2008 range. Featuring a new top-end shoe and, for the first time, a comprehensive spikes range, Saucony is launching an impressive line up of shoes, securing its position as the number two brand in UK specialist stores. For the top end of the market, Saucony is introducing the ProGrid Paramount. Already receiving positive feedback from retailers, the Paramount has unique ‘Comfortemp’ technology in the upper, which regulates the temperature of the feet in the shoes, depending on whether they are above or below 82ºF. Available in the shops from December, the Paramount retails at £110. Comfortemp is a non-woven material, comprising temperature-balancing microspheres which, when the foot warms up to 82º F, create a pleasant cooling effect. When the foot temperature drops, the microspheres then release the stored heat. This technology ensures that runners are kept at a temperature they find comfortable for longer periods. Demonstrating its commitment to running, Saucony’s spike range includes a high quality long distance spike, as well as a mid-range sprint and middle distance offerings. Also in the spring 2008 range are enhanced versions of Saucony’s Performance shoes, the Triathlon-inspired Type A and the top selling racing shoe, the Grid Fastwitch. New colours for its popular Triumph shoes are now on sale and an order book for autumn 2007 is up over 30 per cent on last year. Andrew Sainsbury, managing director of Saucony, said: “Our strong performance comes on the back of the success of the Triumph 4 and Omni 6 launched earlier this year. “The quality and popularity of these shoes in particular has cemented our position with UK specialists, and we are delighted to have seen this growth with them. “For spring 2008, without question, this is the strongest line up of shoes we’ve ever had. “Retailers are impressed with the addition of the Paramount, and we are pulling out all the stops for a November launch. “The inclusion of a Spike range marks us out as a ‘complete running company’, which reflects our support of the sport at all levels.” For further information visit www.saucony.co.uk or telephone 02392 823664. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-08-16 16:35:16 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-08 BRAZILIAN supermodel Gisele Bundchen is endorsing a range of footwear which supports the Y Ikatu Xingu Campaign. Footwear brand Ipanema is working with the famous model in supporting the campaign - which is fighting to preserve the waters of the Brazilian Xingu River and the forests that protect the flow of its waters. Ipanema are releasing two styles in the UK this year which have been inspired by the culture of the Kisedje tribe - a group of Amazonian Indians who are affected by the river’s pollution. Members of the tribe have designed the graphics on the sandals using their ancient culture. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-08-16 16:32:23 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-08 A SIX metre sculpture depicting a pair of stiletto heels has been unveiled in Mansfield. The £50,000 High Heels sculpture by artists Renn and Thacker has received a mixed reaction for local people - some of whom are claiming it is a waste of public money. The sculpture which was built with money from a government grant was unveiled by local drag queen Dixie Tucker. Councillor Kate Allsop, portfolio holder for regeneration, said: “This piece of art is both modern and historic in that it refers to Mansfield’s shoe industry as well as its current bustling nightlife. “The area, which already benefits from a great view of the restored viaduct, is enhanced by this dramatic addition. The sculpture will be a good focal point for the town.” Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-08-16 16:31:30 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-08 A NEW footwear design concept which aims to make women safer and more comfortable behind the wheel has been launched by Sheilas’ Wheels. The car insurer for women has developed the ‘Sheila Driving Heel’ to give women the best of both worlds - a safe, flat driving shoe and a glamorous pair of heels in one - all interchangeable at a push of a button. New research by Sheilas’ Wheels found that more than 11.5 million women drivers in the UK are putting themselves and other drivers at risk by wearing the wrong footwear when behind the wheel. Jacky Brown, spokesman for Sheilas’ Wheels, said: “It’s astonishing that so many women are putting themselves, their passengers and other drivers at risk by wearing the wrong shoe or no shoe at all whilst behind the wheel. Stilettos, sling-backs and strappy sandals aren’t the sensible choice when it comes to controlling a car. “Our Sheila Driving Heel design could provide safety-conscious female motorists with the ultimate driving shoe - allowing women to wear a safe flat shoe whilst driving, and a fashionable heel once they are out of the car.” One in ten female motorists admit that they have had a car accident or a ‘near-miss’ because of their shoes slipping off or getting stuck between, or under, the foot pedals while driving. While 47 per cent of women drivers said that they chose what shoes to wear when getting ready in the morning based on what went best with their outfit rather than being the safest for driving in. Seventeen per cent of female drivers keep a spare pair of ‘driving shoes’ in the car to change into, while 23 per cent admit they can’t be bothered to change their shoes when behind the wheel even if they know they are not the safest for driving. Dianne Ferreira, spokesperson national road safety charity for Brake the national road safety charity, added: “An alarming number of female drivers simply do not realise the danger they are putting themselves, and others, in by driving in inappropriate shoes. High heels, platforms and flip-flops can seriously hamper your ability to drive safely, and could have fatal consequences.” Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-08-16 16:30:24 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 AN American brother and sister duo have created a high heeled shoe with an adjustable heel which they believe will revolutionise the women’s footwear industry. Lauren Handel from Philadelphia says that the new type of footwear offers women more choice and comfort when it comes to high heeled shoes. The shoes, named Camileon Heels, feature a patent-pending adjustable-height technology which enables wearers to adjust their heel height from three and a quarter inches high to a one and a half inch low heel position, without them even having to take off their shoes. The heel’s stainless steel shank, locking mechanisms and screw attachment to the shoe are believed to be unique to women’s footwear and are designed to ensure stability, durability and safety. Women just have to simply pull down on the lower half of the heel, push under and then push back to adjust the height. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-21 15:04:03 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 WOMEN still love their high heels despite the pain and risk of injury that comes with wearing them, according to research. A new study has shown that nearly half of all women wearing high heels, 45 per cent, have fallen or twisted their ankle whilst wearing high heels. According to the study of 1,000 women by Bazuka, those who are single, under 34 and live in the North are the most at risk from their beloved shoes. Six in ten aged 16 to 34 admitted to falling in heels and injuring themselves and half of single women have tripped, compared to 44 per cent of married women. Eighty two per cent of Geordie girls also say they have taken a tumble - compared to 63 per cent in Scotland and only 32 per cent in the South-East. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-21 15:02:58 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 BUYING fabulous shoes is good for your health, according to a new study. Women have been saying for years that buying a new pair of shoes makes them feel good and now it appears there is some truth behind it. New research has found that the excitement of finding a sensational pair of stilettos or boots can send a woman’s heart racing up to 120 beats per minute - a rate usually associated with a vigorous workout. Researchers monitored the heart rates of 35 women as they shopped for shoes in Basingstoke, Hampshire, Nottingham and Leicester. They found that whenever they found a pair they particularly liked, their heart rate almost doubled, soaring from around 70 beats per minute to 120 beats per minute. They also found that hunting out the perfect skirt or top didn’t produce the same results which scientists believe could help explain why women have such a weakness for shoes. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-21 14:58:25 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 USING wheeled footwear is significantly safer for children than taking part in active sports such as skateboarding, basketball and football, according to a new study. The study, conducted by American product safety consulting firm Heiden Associates, found that there is less chance of injury for children using Heelys wheeled footwear than there is for youngsters taking part in certain sports and activities. Heiden Associates analysed more than 2.056 million Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) incident reports through CPSC's National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) on product-related injuries from January 2001 through September 2006. It found that there was only 46 ER treated injuries per 100,000 participants aged from seven to 15. The findings have been welcomed by Heelys which has come under heavy criticism of late for not being safe. Although more than four million pairs of shoes have been purchased, many schools, shopping centres and other public spaces have banned Heelys due to safety concerns. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-21 14:57:14 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 WOMEN who want to tone up without going to the gym are finding help in a new range of footwear which promises to help people tone up with the minimum of effort. Chung Shi balance shoes are designed with curved sole technology and fitted with a reflexology bar in the centre of the shoe. Dubbed the ‘miracle’ shoes, Chung Shis are said to offer a number of benefits which include improved posture, weight loss, greater core stability, toned muscles and cellulite reduction. Celebrity fans of the shoes include supermodel Jerry Hall and the cast of Desperate Housewives. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-01 09:38:19 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 A LEADING Northampton shoemaker has been bought by Italian luxury goods group Prada. Prada, one of the World’s top luxury brands, has brought 55 per cent of Church's shoe firm, allowing them to take over full ownership. Prada's re-acquisition of the 133-year-old shoe brand was believed to be part of a deal between Prada and an Italian bank. Prada saw off several other bidders in 1999 to acquire Church's in a deal worth £106 million. Four years later the Italian company sold 55 per cent of its stake in the shoemaker to private equity firm Equinox. But by buying back the stake, the luxury goods giant has now regained 100% ownership of Church's. Church’s has factories in Northampton, Desborough and Kettering. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-01 09:38:15 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 LEADING accessories designer Anya Hindmarch has collaborated with Sainsbury's and global social change movement, We Are What We Do to produce a limited edition environmentally friendly designer shopping bag. The designer bag - which features the slogan 'I am not a plastic bag' - is retailing for just £5 and is available exclusively at selected places such as Anya Hindmarch UK stores, Colette in Paris and on the We Are What We Do website www.wearewhatwedo.org. It will also be available nationwide through 150 Sainsbury’s supermarkets from late April. David Robinson OBE, founder of We Are What We Do said: "This bag is a testament to the power of collaborative effort – everyone has worked on this bag for nothing and without any one of them, we would not be launching such an exciting and important product." The collaboration is a result of all involved organisations sharing the belief that the use of plastic bags is contributing to long term damage to the environment. Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-01 09:38:06 http://www.ooalmagazine.co.uk/?page=news&monthyear=2007-06 FOOTWEAR employers are being urged to help shape the future of retail by helping to design a new qualification for young entrants to the industry. Linda Florance, chief executive of Skillfast-UK - the Sector Skills Council for the apparel, footwear and textiles sectors - is calling on UK businesses with a strong understanding of the retail market, to join a working group dedicated to developing the content of the Specialised Diploma in Retail. The Specialised Diploma in Retail will be a combined vocational and academic route into the industry for 14 to19 year olds. Linda said: "This is a brand new qualification, which aims to give young people a broad understanding of retail principles, with some highly relevant work experience. "We need leading employers from apparel, footwear or textiles, to help us shape the diploma so that it truly reflects the employment needs of the retail sector." Out On A Limb Magazine - editorial@wharncliffepublishing.co.uk 2007-06-01 09:38:01