Two women, two fashion businesses, one �450m British success story
One began by selling a few posh frocks in cyberspace. The other flogged retro crocks from a second-floor shop in west London. But whatever their differing retail origins, Natalie Massenet and Cath Kidston were yesterday united by cashing in ? just a little ? on their status as the originators of two of Britain's most successful recession-busting brands.
Suits fit for a king (from the Queen's dress-maker)
Such was the attachment of the famously dapper, gay couturier Hardy Amies to making frocks for the House of Windsor that he once asserted his superiority to rival Sir Norman Hartnell by saying: "It's quite simple. He was a silly old queen and I'm a clever old queen."
Instant vintage ? hoard of 70s clothing found
The treasure trove lay undisturbed for the best part of a generation. When the works were lovingly stored by their owner, the internet was a far-off idea, footballers were not overpaid and didn't have mobile phones. About 10,000 items of unworn 1970s clothing ? from classic brown cords to vintage Levi's and denim waistcoats ? were left untouched for decades. Now the extraordinary haul will delight fashion historians and vintage fans keen to get their hands on original styles in mint condition.
Founder of Joseph fashion label dies of cancer
Some of the biggest names in fashion yesterday paid tribute to the founder of the Joseph label, Joseph Ettedgui, who has died from cancer, aged 74.
Watchmakers go back to basics as 'extravagance' ends
Luxury watchmakers are going back to basics with classic designs, as industry players at the world's biggest watch fair in Switzerland warned Wednesday that the "years of extravagance" were over.
