USA -- Nolcha, the successful organization that supports, promotes and educates emerging and independent fashion talent from around the globe expands their independent retailer initiative to Chicago participating with Fashion Focus Chicago.

Independent Retail Week, October 19th – 25th 2009, aims to drive business, increase revenue and provide brand awareness for independent retailers via a week long city wide shopping extravaganza for fashion and beauty lovers. For one week only some of best independent fashion stores will offer select products at a discount and a calendar of exclusive events. With a range of in store events, sales and luxe beauty treatments, consumers will support local fashion retailers, bringing a camaraderie between Chicago businesses and shoppers.

“There could not be a more perfect time to expand this project and support independent fashion businesses,” states Kerry Bannigan, CEO of Nolcha. “In this current economy, independent retailers need support and guidance – this is exactly what Nolcha strives on.” The event will highlight some of the best unique shopping in such a diverse and cultured city; as well as have ‘HotSpots’ in prime city shopping areas. ‘HotSpots’ invite consumers to be pampered by supporting beauty brands, collect their shopping tote full of goodies and garner a Chicago-specific shopping guide featuring information and a map pinpointing all participating boutiques.

Continuing its support for ethical fashion, Nolcha has partnered with Morsbags to produce shopping totes that are funky, strong, fabric reusable bags made from recycled duvet covers, curtains and vintage clothes that will be given consumers to replace the traditional goodie bags and plastic shopping bags.

Nolcha (www.nolcha.com) is an award winning multi-faceted platform that operates an online fashion network and major annual events for the independent fashion industry and related retail businesses. In a short time, Nolcha has grown to become the platform for emerging and independent fashion talent to be educated, network and showcase their work on a global stage making a stamp worldwide for its resources, business advice and continually expanding tools. Supporting partners and sponsors include Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, British Consulate, Czech Republic Consulate, Coca Cola, Aveda, Clarins, Starbucks, and numerous other prominent supporters.

Just by putting a free pattern on www.morsbags.com and by word-of-mouth, over 1000 groups -'pods' worldwide have signed up to make morsbags in their own homes, local schools, churches and community centers. 
 
Nolcha