Shopping AidHelp yourself and help Children’s Hospital...
Shopping Aid
Help yourself and help Children’s Hospital of Orange County. Charlotte Russe stores are donating to CHOC 10% of sales from their Children’s Collection, accessories covered with a collage of international kids. Donations will continue until stocks are depleted. “Every year we try something different to raise money for the hospital,†says Larry Lawrence, one of the three brothers who own the junior wear chain. Lawrence’s teen son spent time at CHOC when he was born prematurely. Find vests ($40), backpacks ($16), handbags ($13), belts ($10) and suspenders ($10).
Mane Interest
When the folks at Rio Vista Equine Products recently raved that 80% of the $12.5 million worth of horse shampoo and tail de-tangler they sold last year was for human use, it seemed like they weren’t just horsing around. And what gives with including Rio Vista Hoof Fix in manicures? Apparently two-legged types are discovering that the secret to taming wild hair and strengthening nails is at the local tack and feed shop. Southern California and Dallas lead the sales pack, says company spokesman Bob Albert. He attributes Rio Vista’s benefits to its natural, high-grade cosmetic ingredients. Most products for horse and human are made of industrial-grade chemicals, which is why creator Jheri Redding decided to develop an organic line for his 270 thoroughbreds and name it after his Santa Barbara Ranch. Redding, who Albert calls “Mr. Organic,†is the creator behind Nexxus, Redken and Jhirmack. The line’s success is also a pocketbook issue. A 32-ounce bottle costs about $10 and lasts months. What will they think up next? Try a fly repellent with a pine scent. Albert says it’s already a hit with golfers and fishermen in Florida.
Bottoms Up
Summer, swimming pools and the not-so-pleasantries of disposable diapers. First they swell up in the water and threaten to sink junior. Then they clog pool filters. And don’t even mention the floating surprise. “That’s really embarrassing,†says Becky Cannon who has two daughters. Hence the inspiration behind Beyond Diapers, a waterproof, reusable pant that can contain serious messes ($9.95). Cannon’s North Carolina-based line, Family Clubhouse, produces a full line of baby products. The pants can be worn alone or under swimsuits and are available in sizes for 3-month-olds to larger kids. Sales have boomed since going national in ’93. She’s sold 200,000 this year, including to Target stores.
