High-top sneakers by Raf Simons

Designer Raf Simons Forges Ahead (WWD)
Raf Simons reveals plans for his eponymous label as well as a number of other design based ventures. (Subscription required)

Clothing prices fall 4.9% in March (Drapers)
“Prices fell 4.9% in the clothing and footwear sector during March, according to the British Retail Consortium Nielsen Shop Price Index.”

Esprit in free fall after CEO replaced (Forbes)
“Esprit sank more than 7 percent on Wednesday after the world’s No.6 fashion brand announced it was replacing its long-time chief executive.”

Lower Rent Costs May Boost N.Y. Retail (WWD)
“As store vacancies rise and rents fall in Manhattan, some eager retailers appear ready to pounce on the spoils.” (Subscription required)

Parlux Signs Deal With Jay-Z’s Iconic Fragrances (WSJ)
“Parlux Fragrances Inc. signed an agreement with licensing company Iconic Fragrances LLC, in which rap icon Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter is principal, that will bring to market perfume labels for singers Rihanna and Kanye West.”

Just Cavalli S/S 09 Advertising campaign

Just Cavalli Extends License With Ittierre SpA (WWD)
“Roberto Cavalli has signed a new five-year license with Ittierre.” (Subscription required)

Esprit Appoints Ronald Van der Vis To Replace Krogner As CEO (WSJ)
Esprit Holdings Ltd. will name Ronald Van der Vis as their new CEO, replacing Heinz Krogner as the brand’s top man.

Big Retailers Revamp for ’09 (WWD)
“After a tumultuous fall – defined by the promotional hurricane that swept through the retail landscape – department stores are going on the offensive this spring.”

When ‘S.V.U.’ Stands for ‘Shopping Victims United’ (NYT)
“They say that gamblers like to ‘play the percentages.’ As the recession drags on, shoppers are doing the same, seeking stores where the signs promise sale prices that are 50, 60, 70 percent or more off regular prices.”