Where Did the Free Spirits Go? (NY Times)
"The Friday and Saturday shows of Fashion Week used to be a solid source of cool, a look-forward-to spree of messiness and mischief before the grown-ups demanded our attention. But lately, instead of being truly free-spirited, some of these designers have begun to seem as malevolently insistent as an Oompa Loompa chanting, 'If you are wise, you'll follow me.'"

Betting on the Proenza Boys (NY Times)
"Having an investor with a youthful outlook helps, since youth is basic to fashion, and explains why Proenza Schouler has stayed at the front of a class of downtown darlings that emerged a decade ago."

Internet finance: How to kick-start your bright idea (FT)
"In April, after numerous rejections from venture capitalists and rapidly running out of cash, five 20-something men from Silicon Valley turned to Kickstarter, a site that allows creative companies, including many filmmakers and musicians, to raise money from individuals online."

Flights of fantasy: Victoria's Secret (Independent)
"Finally settling on London in its most important year, the centrally located flagship follows a Stratford opening to coincide with the Olympics. The hype from across the Pond has certainly been enough to create a healthy appetite for mid-price lingerie, leisurewear and cosmetics."

The couple that sews together grows together (Independent)
"Designers Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi have quite a month ahead of them. On Sunday, they make a highly anticipated return to the London schedule, their first show in the capital since taking their label Preen to New York Fashion Week five years ago."