The Mad Hatters spread, Harrods magazine, April 2010 | Source: Harrods

Harrods’ new owners announce upgrade plans (Telegraph)
“Qatar Holding is expected to back an expansion programme into new areas ­including China.  Harrods could become a global franchise as new owner… announces plans to ‘upgrade’ the luxury retailer.”

BCBG opens in London (Elle.com)
“BCBG Max Azria is the latest U.S. label to open its doors in the UK. Following October’s launch of Anthropologie and the imminent arrival of J. Crew on Net a Porter, BCBG opened on London’s Kings Road over the weekend.”

Baroque and roll: Fashion houses go back to their roots (Independent)
“In demanding economic times, the major fashion houses are going back to their roots for inspiration – so it’s no wonder that Donatella Versace is focusing on high glamour, rainbow colour and ultra-sexy silhouettes.”

Now Showing | Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston (T Magazine)
“… what the director, Whitney Sudler-Smith, presented on Friday at its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival was an affectionate, often kid-glove portrait — or make that ultrasuede-glove portrait — of the fashion legend.”

Mrs. Bono on how fashion can save the world (Times Online)
“Ali Hewson is determined to shrug off the sackcloth image of ethical fashion. What exactly does ethical mean? … I’m hoping that by following Hewson round in Uganda, I may find out — and discover whether it can really be good business.”

Bill Blass, photo courtesy of Bill Blass.

Bill Blass Couture to Close (WSJ)
Once the go-to house for American socialites and Hollywood elite, Bill Blass Couture will close.

Nike picks ups its pace  (Just-style)
Strong performance in international markets has helped the sportswear giant achieve a 9% profit increase in the second quarter. 

Max Azria: The Show(s) Must Go On (WSJ)
Although the BCBG Max Azria Group has taken a financial hit like so many other fashion companies, the company will still stage three runway shows in New York.  

Chanel Cancels Mobile Art Tour (WWD)
Due to the bad economic climate, Chanel cancels costly traveling Mobile Art exhibition.