Tyte to Unveil Tops
Southern California–based juniors denim manufacturer Tyte has partnered with the New York–based A and J Apparel Group to produce a line of knit tops and bottoms. The company will launch the line in June at the New York market for Holiday 2004 deliveries.
“We are thrilled to be working with the Tyte brand,” A and J Apparel Group President Joe Sasson said in a press statement. “Tyte is one of the strongest denim names in the junior marketplace, and we believe our expertise will bring the same recognition to the brand in the knit categories.”
With early sales projections between $2 million and $5 million, the line will consist of tops and bottoms in young girls’ and juniors sizes. Silhouettes will be feminine and sporty with details such as deconstruction, layering and screen prints. The line will be offered in cotton, cotton blend, French terry, paper jersey, baby cotton and rib fabrications. Retail price points will start at $12. The line will be produced domestically and in Africa.
“We are very excited about working with such strong partners in the development of the Tyte knit tops collection,” said Alden Halpern, president and chief executive officer at Los Angeles– based 4Whatitsworth Inc., parent company of Tyte, in a press statement. “In addition to its innovative and superior quality, A and J Apparel Group has excellent sourcing and distribution capabilities in the junior apparel industry. It’s an excellent match.”
Tyte is sold at department stores and juniors retailers including Macy’s, Gadzooks, Charlotte Russe and Dillard’s. A and J Apparel Group’s sales staff will head up sales for the line.
The partnership marks Tyte’s first venture into apparel licensing and the company’s ongoing effort to build a brand portfolio, the company said. Other categories of interest include young men’s apparel, handbags and leather accessories, and fragrance.
—C.F.
