Oscar glamour lives in tough economy

Oscars Evolve With Economy (WWD)
“With the worldwide economy in turmoil, glamour lives in the run-up to Hollywood’s annual Academy Awards extravaganza on Sunday night, but brands are finding ways to save a buck.” (Subscription required)

PPR sees fourth quarter sales slow (Drapers)
Although PPR, the French conglomerate that owns Gucci, saw revenues rise in 2008, its fourth quarter earnings slowed.

America’s Most Popular Stores (Forbes)
“Consumers may be spending less, but they’re having better shopping experiences.” 

Discount clothing tycoon tops Japan rich list (Forbes)
Tadashi Yanai, the founder of Uniqlo is Japan’s richest man.