April 8, 2011

The Design & Merchandising Program and University Libraries are proud to present the fifth issue of the Journal of Culture & Retail Image. The articles in this issue highlight iconic retail stores and brands, such as Sara Kovarovic’s article on Hello Kitty, whose popularity is an international phenomenon, and Kristia Morabito's article on Victoria's Secret and how this brand has gained enormous market share in the women's undergarment industry. Innovative and new brands are presented in Kate Wilt's article on Married to the MOB (Most Official Bitches) and Elyse Austin's paper on Nine West's new division, Shoe Woo. Finally, Elizabeth Hanson's essay on Betsey Johnson allows readers to see how this company has maintained a fashionable trend-right image over multiple decades, allowing us to state that Betsey Johnson is an iconic brand that will be here for years to come. 

With this issue we say “farewell” to founding editor Ann Keith Kennedy as she leaves to pursue other endeavors. She helped to spearhead this journal that has received rave reviews from the Drexel Writing Programs, the London College of Fashion and the International Textiles and Apparel Association. Researchers and scholars from around the globe have cited this journal in their own research endeavors. We hope that you will enjoy this issue and, as always, welcome feedback from the readers. Please send any comments to Dr. Joseph Hancock at jhh33@drexel.edu.