Cotton On Group - WORD ON THE STREET

COTTON ON GROUP

Word on the Street 3

Issue

February 2016

IN

2016 we celebrate 25 years over 1400 stores in 17 countries

What’s in this edition: Page 4

Page 8

Page 11

Page 18

Our denim story started with our founder Nigel Austin.

As of April, we’ll have you sorted in the bath department.

Trend watch.

May is all about cats.

Meet Tim Diamond, Cotton On Foundation General Manager.

COTTONONGROUP.COM.AU

Meet the team With 2015 well and truly behind us, we are looking forward to working with you in 2016 as our brands continue to launch exciting product, introduce new categories and expand our global footprint.

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From our 25th birthday celebrations, to BODY’s botanical launch and Typo’s first ever chocolates in store just in time for Easter, we have lots to fill you in on! Thanks for your support so far, please do let us know if you have any questions from our Word on the Street Volume 3!

The Cotton On Group PR Team, Greer, Amanda, Sam, Lauren, Meg, Anna, Tegan and Alex.

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// AMANDA

// SAM

// LAUREN

Greer, Cotton On Group Global PR and Communications Manager (the Mother Bear to her PR cubs). Greer is the captain of the Cotton On Group PR Ship, steering us safely on the high seas in the PR world.

Amanda, or Mands, as she is affectionately known around the office is the Cotton On Group’s Global PR Brand Specialist for the group’s apparel brands (minus Cotton On) – looking after Cotton On Body, Suprè, Rubi Shoes and factorie.

Sam, Cotton On Group Global PR Brand Strategist (she’s your got-to gal for lifestyle and kids, looking after all-things Cotton On KIDS, FREE by Cotton On, TYPO, the Cotton On Foundation and The Unite Project).

Lauren, Cotton On Global PR Manager (looking after all things Cotton On Adults around the globe)

Greer MCcracken greer.mccracken@cottonon.com.au T + 03 5277 7837

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// MEG Meg is a Cotton On PR Coordinator working across all things Adults, including the Mark Tuckey + Cotton On range.

Meg has an unhealthy obsession with makeup and when not at Cotton On HQ can probably be found watching her sixth consecutive smokey eye tutorial on YouTube.

She’s also a frequent user of the fabulous Cotton On gym and can often be found sweating out to Kayla Itsines BBG guide with a full face of NARS products, including cut crease lid and red lip.

Meg Carrol meg.carroll@cottonon.com.au T +613 5277 8035 | M +61 418 795 491

A keen traveller, Mands can’t sit still for long and is known for booking spontaneous getaways on a whim. When she’s not on a plane, you can usually find her in down dawg on the mat or honing her SUP skills (i.e. trying to stay afloat).

Amander Connor amanda.connor@cottonon.com.au M +61 409 378 573 |+613 5277 8089

Samantha Vassos samantha.vassos@cottonon.com.au M +61 417 192 627 | T +613 5277 8406

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// ANNA Anna, Cotton On Group PR Coordinator, is your go to girl for all things Cotton On KIDS, Cotton On Foundation and Typo.

More often than not you can spot Anna working amongst the piles of samples and product that tend to surround her desk.

Never one to turn down a weekend getaway, when she is not in the office she is off exploring spots across Victoria, Australia or on some lucky occasions the world.

Forever on the hunt for the elusive sunken treasure, Anna, or some may refer to her Ariel, is partial to an underwater adventure, dipping beneath the waves in her scuba gear to take a swim with the fish, sharks and most recently sea turtles!

Anna Scott anna.scott@cottonon.com.au M +61434 290 933 | T +613 5277 8445

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When she isn’t burning up and back on the Princes Hwy to and from Cotton On HQ, (and when budget permits) Sam can be found chasing the snow, a big fan of skiing, and bigger fan of après skiing.

// TEGAN Tegan, Cotton On Group PR Coordinator (Working across Cotton On Body, Rubi Shoes, factorie and Supré) A born and bred Geelong girl who is shorter than Smurfette and just like her blue alter ego, is never out of her high heels. If she is, it’s because she’s hitting the gym or running around the indoor soccer pitch. Always on the go, fast is Tegan’s middle name (good luck trying to piece together her sentences when she is talking about something exciting), but catch her in her down time and she’ll be sipping on white wine (most likely in the tub) with a good book in her hand!

Tegan Clingan tegan.clingan@cottonon.com.au T + 03 5277 7874 | M + 0447 594 185

Lauren is the latest addition to the PR Team, having returned from a long stint in London where she honed her love of BBC period dramas and pints of cider to absolute perfection.

Now back Down Under, her weekends are devoted to staying out of the sun (definitely more English than Aussie when it comes to the pale factor), trying to keep up with her beloved new Golden Retriever puppy and sampling the best Melbourne cafés have to offer.

Lauren Lake lauren.lake@cottonon.com.au M +61 438 945 871 | T +613 5277 7882

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// ALEX Alex, Cotton On Group PR and Communications Assistant. Will get to you all the samples and images you require.

After two years working as a Flight Attendant, Alex landed back in Aus and joined the COG Army. She gets enjoyment out of nailing R&B song lyrics, Aaron Carter being her forte.

One of her goals in life is to rap Empire State of Mind without fault. She’s developed an obsession with crosswords and worries that she’s turning into her Nonna – some other signs pointing to this are her 9pm bedtime and mean crocheting skills. Doily anyone?

Alex’s cooler side sees her playing Beach Volleyball and wearing Chuck Taylors (so edgy).

Alex Mingon alexandra.mingon@cottonon.com.au T + 03 5277 8269

Introduction A message from our CEO, celebrating 2015 :

• T he Supré Foundation was launched with a commitment to invest $300,000 in youth mental health.

2015 proved to be another fantastic year of growth, firsts and milestones for the Cotton On Group, all while having some fun along the way.

• W e raised just over $10 million for the Cotton On Foundation’s global projects and opened the Ross Langdon HIV Centre in Mannya, which will treat 16,000 people within its first year.

• We funded the immunisation of over 2,500 children, provided 4,700 children with access to education, and delivered five container libraries to communities in need in South Africa.

• W e opened 300 new stores during the year, including 153 stores in the 120 days before Christmas.

• 2 8,862 people participated in our Run Australia events, raising over $889,400 for local communities.

• We expanded into Namibia; our second African country and our 17th global market

And we’re not slowing down! 2016 is already shaping up to be bigger and better, with new countries, exciting expansion plans internationally and much more.

• Our DC teams picked more than 150 million units and serviced over one million online customers.

Thank you for your support and we look forward to continuing to work with you in the year ahead.

• We had our biggest ever single day of online sales, driven by the US Black Friday and Cyber Monday events, achieving over 200 percent year on year growth.

The Cotton On Group’s growth lies in the sophistication of our supply chain and the speed at which we can deliver products into store.

The vertically integrated model has seen us operate at a speed we believe is unparalleled by most retailers in the world and has allowed us to respond with agility to customer demand and react in real time with new product drops weekly and stock replenishment daily. This means customers can access the latest looks each time they step into one of our stores.

Kenya Cotton The Group recently implemented a pilot program to grow its own cotton sourced directly from farmers in Kenya.

In partnership with Business for Millennium Development (B4MD), the program empowers farmers with the education and resources they need to create a sustainable income, while also supporting long-term change and development in a region where 46 per cent of people live below the poverty line.

• Our global team grew to over 20,000 as we welcomed new team members across all our brands, functions and countries.

• Brazil continued to be one of our most exciting new frontiers with the development of our country hub in Sao Paulo and a number of new store openings, including an incredibly successful opening in Morumbi • We launched our New Zealand country hub as a standalone operation, securing a new head office site and announcing plans to employ an additional 800 people and open 200 stores over the next three years.

Speed to market

To date, the program has delivered some very exciting results with the first crop successfully harvested. The Group is now expanding the program to support more farmers in the region and yield a greater quantity of cotton.

— Peter Johnson, CEO

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Australia South Africa New Zealand USA Singapore Malaysia Philippines Indonesia UAE Thailand Hong Kong Brazil Oman Namibia Lebanon Qatar Saudi Arabia

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Run Australia is back and shaping up to be bigger and better than ever in 2016. Make sure you put these dates in your diary!

• Run Newcastle: August 7th • Run Ballarat: October 23rd • Run Geelong: November 20th

• Run Townsville: TBC • Run Wollongong: TBC

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Our denim story started with our founder Nigel Austin selling acid wash jackets at a local Geelong market in Australia, before opening the first Cotton On store in 1991.

Fast forward 25 years and we’ve kept the link to our heritage by carrying that denim attitude and passion with us in everything we do.

THE SKINNY STRAIGHT – Skinny fit with a low rise & straight leg

THE SKINNY MID RISE – Skinny fit with a flattering mid rise

One of our best selling styles across the world, our Skinny Straight Leg jean has been updated in a range of new colours.

Made from stretch denim, these tailored five pocket jeans are perfect for everyday wear.

Featuring Cotton On’s signature full length skinny fit, the Mid Rise will be available throughout Autumn 2016 in cord and coated updates.

Featuring our signature skinny leg that tapers at the ankle, the Skinny Straight is the ultimate go-to jean.

Made from soft stretch denim, it’s the perfect balance of comfort with a fashion fit.

When styling, pair with a graphic tee for a casual day look, then add heels and statement jewellery to take you straight to drinks with the girls.

Q. In three words, how would you describe Cotton On’s ’91 denim range?

A. Effortless, affordable, trending

- Leah Summers, Cotton On Womenswear Denim Buyer

Q. How would you style the Skinny Mid Rise Jean?

Q. What are your tips for washing denim?

A. A true Denimista never washes their denim! But if you must, turn the jeans inside out and wash in cold water with detergent and leave them inside out to hang in the shade. This will ensure the jeans don’t fade too quickly.

A. With a long white boyfriend style shirt, leather jacket and chunky necklace, finished off with a heeled boot for an easy, everyday look.

- Michael Z erger-Dadd ow, Cotton On Menswear Denim Buyer

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Or as an alternative, fold your jeans into a plastic bag and pop them in the freezer to refresh them - be sure to defrost before putting them on!

The Autumn/Winter Mark Tuckey + Cotton On Home range focuses on the relaxed functionality of the products and highlights the natural features of each of the materials used across the collection.

Continuing the easy and simple design aesthetic Mark Tuckey and Cotton On both embrace, the products feature a refresh to some of the original favourites, as well as introducing new bedroom + living products in pared back neutral shades and patterns.

The Cotton On Home collection is available online and at selected Cotton On stores.

The palette of our new Autumn / Winter range is soft and versatile with more naturals, charcoals and whites as a foundation for our signature pops of colour to ensure the pieces remain fresh and on-trend.

The latest collection continues to support both Mark Tuckey and Cotton On’s commitment to quality and affordable homewares and we’re delighted to be able to share the new range of Cotton On Home products with our community

ve Director - Louella Tuckey, Mark Tuckey Creati

The TBar x Cotton On Artist Series showcases the work of both established and emerging artists, providing a unique platform of personal expression for lovers of the graphic print T-shirt.

How do you wear yours?

Morgan Connoley of Colour & Skulls is currently based on the Victorian South Coast and is one of the original founders of the Geelong Illustrators group of artists.

Q. How to wear a graphic tee?

A . Tucked into high waisted denim shorts for a festival look, or paired with a feminine skirt and leather biker for a more edgy style. However if you’re new to graphic tees you can never go wrong wearing it with white jeans and Converse.

Working predominately in illustration, Morgan’s work is a blend of brightly-hued prints and a whimsical mix of beautifully etched drawings.

Morgan’s TBar x Cotton On Artist Series tee will be available in store and online, from March 2016 and retails for $19.95.

T he inspiration behind my TBar x Cotton On designs draws from nineties fashion, vibrant flowers, fruit and the blank, beautiful faces of runway models to create a fun series of wearable art. The designs are quirky, colourful and quintessentially Colour & Skulls.

- Lucy Nutter, Cotton On Trend Director - Morgan Connoley, Colour and Skulls

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April

May

Cotton On KIDS Cat Cushion $24.95

Cotton On KIDS Pear Cushion $24.95

Cotton On KIDS Single Quilt Cover $49.95

Cotton On KIDS Cloudy Fun Cushion $29.95

In April and May KIDS introduce some gorgeous pieces to the highly anticipated, latest kids ROOM range.

Cotton On KIDS Single Quilt $49.95

All pieces are designed to be mixed and matched, and compliment previous room products perfect if you’re furnishing a new room or simply need a few key pieces to change it up!

Cotton On KIDS Monster Critter Cushion $24.95

Some of our favourite upcoming pieces for tweens sleepwear and active gear!

Active

Sleep // PAGE 6

We even have a limited edition Miffy Floor cushion...

Looking for some non-chocolate Easter gifts for the KIDS? In March KIDS have the perfect PJs, and homeboots to snuggle up in over the Easter holidays...

Cotton On KIDS Hooded gown $34.95

Cotton On KIDS PJ set $34.95

Cotton On KIDS Floor Cushion $34.95

Our LEggings are back, and they’re better than ever!

Our cult favourite girls wear leggings have had an update.

Visit our blog to see more of what we’re up to cottononkids.com.au

Shhhhh Stay tuned for our latest KIDS Active range launching in July // PAGE 7

Introducing: Botanicals From hand cream and hand wash to body wash, body oils and hair treatment; our Botanicals range smells as good as it feels.

We’ve had you covered in intimates, active, sleep and loungewear for years… but as of April, we’ll have you sorted in the bath department too!

Mother’s Day You can spoil new Mums and Mumsto-be this Mother’s Day, with our new maternity range.

Featuring beautiful bras, underwear that comes with nursing clips for easy feeding – it is both practical and on-trend!

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Sunday May 8

Toasted coconut, pomegranate and vanilla are just some of the scents that will be wafting from your bathroom. It’s paraben and sulphate free too. And the best part?

It’s Australian made!

Did you know?

The average person: • Spends 25 years sleeping • Has between 4 and 6 dreams a night (for a total of 2,000 a year!)

With that in mind, it’s time to make your bedroom a space of your own – with our brand new bedding and accessories range.

From candles and cushions to throws and frames, you’ll never want to leave your haven again.

Summer 365

with Cotton On BODY Trend Forecaster Stephanie Keen. hat is the concept W behind Summer 365?

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What is trending in swimwear at the moment?

A We noticed our customer craved

A

Modern Bohemia is trending in swimwear this Summer, with rich prints and strapping details ruling the look. Inspired by the romantic era of the 70s, it’s all about mixing and matching eclectic patterns from floral and tie dye to patchwork paisley to recreate that sense of freedom from decades gone by.

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on-trend swimwear all year, instead of just in the warmer months, so we created the Summer 365 concept.

It’s a permanent online destination offering swim from BODY, flip flops from Rubi, denim shorts from Cotton On and Free by Cotton On swimwear for the tweens.

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Are there any plans to take the concept to bricks-and-mortar?

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We opened our first Summer 365 concept store in Carindale, Queensland at the end of last year. It includes elements that reflect summer such as Hamptons-style timber, surfboards adorning the walls and even a feature wave made out of more than 100 pairs of flip flops!

Bra Bar

Top secret

Whether it’s running, yoga or boxing – BODY active bra bar has you sorted (and supported)! Featuring adjustable straps, breathable mesh lining and racer backs – there are three key styles to suit any workout.

Cotton On BODY will be expanding globally this year with a BIG announcement coming soon.

Watch this space…

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Stay in with Typo Whether it’s a Netflix and Chill kind of night or a get together with mates, you’ll never want to leave your house with the launch of Typo’s new Home collection this March.

Typo Industrial Lamp Rose Gold $49.99

Typo Essential throws $59.99

Staying in is the new going out and Typo has made sure you will be kitting out your space in the latest colours and styles of the season with their interpretation of the marble trend and injection of soft blush, rose gold and bold blacks.

Typo Hooked Shadow Box $19.99 Typo Bean Bag $79.99

Meet the makers April sees Typo celebrating the amazing team behind their unique and ever-evolving graphics, with a range of adult colouring and activity books.

Ranging from cityscapes and skulls to quotes and flowers, each book features hand illustrated designs from the inhouse design team at Typo. There are also two featured artists in the mix, including one international illustrator.

colouring book ‘as “A girly theme with summer vibes and lots of activities to stimulate your creativity and encourage procrastination. I was inspired by fashion photography, festival shorts, junk food and flamingos.”

Jen Parle is just one of the talented in-house designers at Typo who created a book ‘Girl’s Play’ for the range. She will also feature on the window poster for the April campaign in store.

There will be a total of eight new colouring and activity books released in April, starting at $19.99. Each book is exclusive to Typo and is loaded with activities and intricate designs for all of your mindful musings.

You can find Jen on Instagram @chalkboardnation

When feeling uninspired Jen looks to vintage typography and sign writing to spark some fresh ideas. Jen describes her

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Typo Mothers day mug $9.99

Typo DIY photo album $24.99

May is all about your mums Typo has every mum and budget covered this Mothers Day.

Typo Metal drink bottle $24.99

Typo Mothers Day card $59.99

Typo Jar candle $24.99

Trend watch Typo Nice cushy cushion $24.99

Typo You’re so vain travel case $24.99

Typo Cat head mug $9.99

Typo Cat headphones $29.99

What’s hot for July: phonography We’ve always loved taking photos and capturing moments but now with our smart phones at an arm’s reach, we’re snapping more memories than ever before.

The Phonography trend is all about taking the best snap with your phone by customising it with special effect lenses, trick tripods and selfie remotes. The Phonography range allows customers of all photography skill levels to take pictures like a pro in an instant.

Hayes, TYPO Buy er ate K –

May: all about cats and the chic style they represent!

The range features caricatures of cats, as well as phonography and is supported by sleek black and white stripes with splashes of light pink. It’s sure to be a hit amongst feline lovers and anyone with an inclination towards classic style.

How to say mum around the world

Mom Bungkam Ibu Mamma Mama

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It’s true love There’s a certain feeling you get when you find the perfect pair of jeans. Jeans that make you realise what true love really means.

Introducing, Supré Denim like you’ve never seen it before!

In our new campaign, veterans of the Girl Gang – Sarah Ellen, Inka Williams and Shelby Hamilton – join newcomers Naomi Sequeira and Lilly Van De Meer to show us how to wear the latest denim must-haves.

NEW STARS IN OUR SQUAD Meet Lilly Meet Naomi When she’s not modeling for Supré, Naomi stars in The Disney Channel series The Evermoor Chronicles.

This multi talented babe also has a killer singing voice so stay tuned for her future music releases!

Her favourite thing about denim? “It’s relatable and comfy, and it pretty much suits every outfit!”

Gold Coast born actress Lilly is most at home surfing in the ocean, which figures since she’s already making waves as new girl Xanthe on Neighbours.

The future’s bright for this beauty - just watch.

Her favourite thing about denim? “What’s not to love?

There’s a comfort in knowing my perfect denim jacket and jeans are hanging in my closet, ready to turn a simple outfit into a statement.”

Foundation

Bullying. So not ok! The Supré Foundation is taking a stand. Here’s how you can help The Supré Foundation believes in the power of girls. Together, we can make a positive change towards a supportive world – one where girls are empowered.

We have partnered with headspace, the national youth mental health organisation, to take a stand against bullying, committing $300,000 towards a range of bullying prevention

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projects run through schools, headspace centres and the wider community.

When you purchase products from the Supré Foundation, you are helping to make a real difference.

Check out the latest products from the range and get shopping for an important cause.

Denim Styles JEANS OF YOUR DREAMS

The Luxe Hunter

Whether you live in skinnies or feel lost without your boyfriends; love ‘em distressed or dig the leather look, there’s a pair for you on this page. Perfect fit found!

The Luxe Skinny

The Ripped Luxe Skinny

The Ultra Destroyed Jean

Our fave style comes in enough colours to rock a different pair every day of the week.

They fit like a dream and are made to live in!

Add some edge to your look in this blogger fave with a slashed knee style. Wear with a checked shirt around your waist for extra style points.

If you’re craving some instant fash cred, this distressed pair is for you!

The Ultra High Skinny Luxe

The Coated Skinny

Our new fit made for girls that like their denim skyscraper high!

Sleek, chic and flattering, they’re designed to take you from day to night.

New Stores Have you seen our new stores lately?!

Featuring iPhone charging stations, digital screens, luxe change rooms, accessory walls and the hottest styles ever, you’re going to want to take a peek.

Keep your eyes peeled for our store makeovers across Australia and New Zealand!

Our latest Luxe Basics are a nonnegotiable in any glam girl’s wardrobe.

Made from a flattering double layered fabric and in trending colours, it’s no surprise that our community have gone cray for them!

Pssst…Dance by Sporté is Coming Stay tuned for our online exclusive dance wear collection coming soon!

Center Stage eat your heart out.

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These boots were made for wearing…

Rubi Sloan High Shaft Boot $49.95

Rubi Hello Harness Boot $59.95

Rubi Ari Heeled Gusset Boot $59.95

Rubi Lloyd Stud Boot $59.95

Rubi Elle V Cut Out Boot $49.95

The Urban Traveller

Be inspired by the seventies this April, with Rubi’s modern take on the urban traveller.

Neutrals mixed with textured warm tones gives this look its soft seventies feel …

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In March, Rubi takes the first step towards winter with the launch of its western-inspired boots range. From gold studs and buckling to stitch detailing and cut out elements…

You won’t want to take them off.

Rubi Drama Gusset Boot $49.95

In May, the focus turns to soft goods.

Rubi Jazzy Sneaker $49.95

Inspired by a classic, minimalist look, it’s all about layering and keeping it casual.

The trend is anchored in laid back, luxe casual footwear and accessories. Textures also play a big role with marbling and honeycomb woven throughout, giving a luxurious feel.

Rubi Coin Purse $49.95

Rubi Coin Purse Keyring $49.95

Meet Sarah

Introducing Rubi’s new GM, Sarah Rovis. Joining the team late in 2015, Sarah has more than 15 years experience in the retail industry.

Rubi by Cotton On

She’s worked in various leadership positions for some of the world’s most iconic fashion labels including; Adidas, Myer, Dotti and Sportsgirl.

Sarah is incredibly excited about joining Rubi and leading its high performing, dynamic team to further build on the brand’s success.

— Sarah Rovis, GM ­

Rubi launched two standalone stores in South Africa last year in direct response to strong customer demand.

The Rubi by Cotton On concept stores feature a clean aesthetic with washed timber floors, exposed white bricks and studio-style lighting.

Watch this space…

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This season is all about the hottest denim styles.

In February, factorie introduces five new denim fits and you’ll be invited to #findyourfaves Essential to every wardrobe, these cult classic styles are available in an array of washes.

Throwing it back to the 90s, factorie’s Back to Basics tees are perfect to pair back with your denim.

In March, we meet Jett and Jenna.

The Jett Pant And Jenna Jean // PAGE 16

JENNA - she’s a super high-waisted jean that will give you legs for days! With three buttons and seam detailing, Jenna accentuates the legs and elongates the body.

JETT – with a tapered fit, elastic waist and cuffed pant, he’s best worn back with a basic, or no tee at all...

factorie Urban Anorak $69.95

factorie Polly pom-pom $14.95

factorie Wide Brimmed Fedora $24.95

Winter Festival Feels Our picks for the winter festival season; factorie’s beanie, fedora hat, slogan fleece and high waisted denim jeans, best worn with an anorak, must have socks, fab Chunky Urban boot and finished off with a fringe bag. Also, don’t forget your lippy, phone and the latest factorie glitter cover and body spray to keep you feeling fresh!

factorie Phone Cover $12.95

factorie Lipstick $7.95 factorie Body Spray $12.95

COMING SOON

factorie Western Tassel Bag $29.95

factorie Trio Buzz Key Chain $12.95

GUYS - Khaki and military details like utility pockets added to bomber jackets, anoraks and cuffed pants.

Hot item: Crop Ringer Tee.

Hot item: Curved Tail Tee.

Coming Soon

GIRLS – Prints take on an eastern folk feel with our ringer tees adopting a rock band theme, worn back with our new denim overall shorts or pinfore.

Coming Soon

Faces of factorie

The 2015 search for Faces of Factorie was bigger and louder than ever before. Over 4000 entrants from across the globe shared their ultimate dream, with six lucky winners chosen to travel to Melbourne for a backstage festival experience at Good Life Festival to meet competition ambassador DJ Will Sparks.

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Tim Diamond, Cotton On Foundation General Manager said the opening of the Ross Langdon HIV Education Centre is a beacon of hope for people struggling to overcome the prevalence of HIV in their community.

“Rakai District, where HIV is rampant, has half its population under the age of 14 years. These are communities where people are not growing old because of AIDS, and we hope our Centre will help stop this epidemic,” said Tim. The centre, which cost over $AU220,000 to build, has helped xx patients so far, with the aim to help over 160,000 people within its first year of operation.

Ross Langdon HIV Education Centre ­— Rakai District, Uganda.

PROJECT UPDATE: ROSS LANGDON HIV EDUCATION CENTRE On 1 December 2015 (World AIDS Day) the Cotton On Foundation officially opened the Ross Langdon HIV Education Centre in Rakai District, the birthplace of AIDS in Uganda.The Centre is the first of its kind and is located in Mannya Village, known to be an area rife with HIV, providing the following services to the local and surrounding communities: • HIV counselling • Support food nutrition programs • PMTCT care (Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission) • Pediatric HIV care • Family support group services • Private and group counselling on how to support and/or living with HIV positive person • Sexual risk and education sessions Tim Diamond, Cotton On Foundation General Manager said the opening of the Ross Langdon HIV Education Centre is a beacon of hope for people struggling to overcome the prevalence of HIV in their community.

“Rakai District, where HIV is rampant, has half its population under the age of 14 years. These are communities where people are not growing old because of AIDS, and we hope our Centre will help stop this epidemic,” said Tim. The centre, which cost over $220,000 AU aims to help over 160,000 people within its first year of operation.

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­— Tim Diamond, General Manager of Cotton On Foundation

MEET TIM DIAMOND, GENERAL MANAGER OF COTTON ON FOUNDATION Tim was engaged by the global retailer, Cotton On Group in 2006 to commence work on the philanthropic arm of the business.

In November 2007, Tim formed a partnership with Mannya Village, Uganda which lead to the official registration of the Cotton On Foundation as a charity organisation.

The Cotton On Foundation’s aim is to ‘empower youth’ and to deliver projects based on the UN’s Millennium Development Goals, to date they have almost 4,000 children in school across Southern Uganda, focusing on their 4-pillar approach of Education, Healthcare, Infrastructure and Sustainability.

Over the past seven years the philanthropic organisation has grown from generating US$150,000 p.a. to now an International NGO generating over US$10 million in funds per year.

In February 2013, Tim personally met with Ugandan President Museveni, and his cabinet in Mannya Village, Uganda. There, the President agreed to support ongoing efforts of the Ugandan Cotton On Foundation NGO. This was a major boost for the long-term sustainability of Cotton On Foundation projects in remote areas of Uganda.

The Cotton On Foundation mission came to a peak in September 2013, where Tim addressed on stage, in front of 60,000 attendees and 22 million viewers at the Global Citizen Festival in New York City their aim of ‘establishing 20,000 educational places in Southern Uganda by 2020’ Cotton On Foundation is the charity arm of the Cotton On Group, selling products in over 1295 Cotton On Group stores globally, across 14 countries and 8 brands. They also manage projects across Indigenous Australia, South Africa and Asia.

Hamish + Andy Limited Edition Water Keep an eye out in stores in March for our limited edition Hamish and Andy water bottles ($2), helping us raise $200,000 for much needed clean water facilities and infrastructure in Uganda.

The bottles will be available from 18 March, 2016 – World Water Day, in all Cotton On stores in Australia.

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ALWAYS ON

COTTONONGROUP.COM.AU