| New Fabric, Patterns Mark Peaches Katherine Heigl Collection |
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| Written by Jackie Rosselli | |||
| Monday, 02 November 2009 09:59 | |||
Celebrity endorsements are old hat – the famous have pitched everything throughout the years, from cookware to perfume and even apparel.But a celebrity-inspired brand of uniforms is somewhat of a newsmaker, even in this day and age, and that is what the two-year old Katherine Heigl collection of medical apparel continues to be. Due to hit stores November 15, each piece in the spring line of solids and prints is infused with modern styling and patterns, making the Katherine Heigl collection one of the most talked about this season. While receiving a blessing from a celebrity may be groundbreaking, the fact that such a fashion-forward collection is designed by Peaches Uniforms isn't. Best known for its ability to blend fashion with function, Peaches has been on the forefront of stylish, hip apparel options since its inception in 1987. "We've always been about expressing a lifestyle rather than just selling uniforms," says Peaches President Barry Rothschild. Peaches was the first to introduce fashion colors and 100% cotton fabrics into what was then called the white goods industry. "We came out with a fashion scrub over 20 years ago," notes Rothschild. "That was unheard of back then." The timing was ripe, as seismic shifts were occurring throughout the uniform industry, brought about in part by changing end user tastes. Casual Friday influences and retail-inspired designs began to take hold across the country, and slowly trickled in to the corporate apparel market, eventually reaching the security industry with a new "soft" approach to uniform programs. The white goods industry, too, eventually shed its moniker, forever rechristened as medical apparel. "We don't like to think of medicine as a business, but the fact is that doctors are in competition with one another," notes Rothschild "A staff that looks good, has a fresh style about them says to the patient that this office cares more about them than anywhere else they can go." ![]() The Katherine Heigl line keeps originality at the forefront by mimicking retail fashion releases; thus, new items are introduced each season to keep up with the latest trends. Named after the Grey's Anatomy actress, it had been rumored the line would be discontinued if the actress left the hit series, but she has returned this season. "There are similar products on the market, but when customers see the Katherine Heigl name, they want it," Rothschild readily admits. Its price point, too, is attractive; the Heigl line is moderately priced compared with similar items offered by competitors, according to Rothschild.The spring collection consists of one pant and three different tops in a variety of color options. In a departure from previous lines, all items are made of poly/rayon, an easy care fabric that is highly desired by medical professionals. "You can wash it, hang it up or throw it in the dryer and it won't shrink," says Rothschild. "It's a great product." The fabric is also ultra soft and comfortable, a key selling point in the medical apparel industry. Comfort trumps all other concerns, even price; though a consideration, customers are willing to pay more for quality and name brands. "All of the top vendors make quality products, so it comes down to giving the wearer a chance to express her tastes through a diverse line of clothing," he continues. "If you're looking for a plain v-neck and pull on pant, you're not looking for Peaches. Our customers want a fashion product in a variety of fabrications, and that's what we deliver." The solid scrubs from the Katherine Heigl spring collection are comfortable enough to work in, yet stylish and sporty for everyday use. The simple pant has a drawstring waist and elastic back for easy wear and the overall appearance is modern and smart without being trendy. Still a low rise, the trouser offers more hip room, addressing the concerns of some seasoned health care workers. "The junior fit look came into play about five years ago, and though wildly popular with all age groups, it just isn't practical for all wearers," notes Rothschild. "This pant has the updated look customers want, and does so without compromising professionalism." The garment can be paired with a squared, rounded, or v-neck scrub that has elasticized gathering, two side pockets and side vents for ease of movement.For those seeking a more colorful path to individuality, the collection also includes wear in a bright, cheerful bubble print. Soft and feminine, these scrubs are accented with a floral detail above the waistline that serves as a focal point. In March, Peaches will roll out the Katherine Heigl summer line, which will include two new fashion pants and solid tops, as well as new items for its other brands. Look for more embroidery, softer palettes and a move toward subtle tonal prints. Learn more about the Peaches product line by visiting www.peachesuniforms.com
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| Last Updated on Monday, 02 November 2009 10:31 |
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