Michelle Obama in J.Crew, courtesy of Vogue (US)

Fashion Forward (Portfolio)
“Moving ahead in the current economy will require fashion companies to be as flexible and innovative as they’ve claimed to be all along.”

S&P cuts Barney’s credit rating, warns on liquidity (Reuters)
Standard & Poor’s on Monday cut its ratings on Barney’s New York Inc to a deeply distressed level and warned that vendors may tighten terms or limit shipments to the luxury retailer as its liquidity declines.

Bergdorf Expands the World of Bottega Veneta (WWD)
“While the Italian brand and its signature “intrecciato” weave cast an understated aura, there’s nothing subtle about the Bergdorf presentation. The Fifth Avenue store has created a ‘World of Bottega Veneta’ showcasing the brand’s burgeoning assortment.” (Subscription required)

Trovata, Forever 21 Case Set for Trial (WWD)
“After two years of legal wrangling, Trovata’s lawsuit alleging that cheap-chic retailer Forever 21 copied its designs is headed to trial next month, and the outcome could have implications for both vendors and retailers in this age of fast fashion.”