Designers Ashley Olsen And Mary-Kate Olsen Launch Elizabeth and James in Canada

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 19, 2008) - Announced today, Elizabeth and James will launch its Spring collection next month in Canada at Holt Renfrew and other specialty boutiques. Elizabeth and James, the contemporary collection designed by Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen in partnership with L'Koral Industries, is a new concept in contemporary sportswear, young and sophisticated with a designer aesthetic. This launch follows the hugely successful Fall 2007 U.S. launch which resulted in unprecedented sell-thru at high-end retailers and specialty boutiques.

The Elizabeth and James collection combines classic aspects of feminine fashion with that of tailored menswear, often offering with the collection to complementary silhouettes - e.g., the "Elizabeth blazer" (tailoured and sexy, with a feminine touch) and the "James blazer" (more of an oversized "boyfriend" style). An original peacock print flows throughout the Spring collection, sometimes paired with sheer stripes and particularly memorable in a long, flowing dress. Sequins are swirled in a unique colourful pattern and special metal woven fabrics which maintain a rumpled shape lend originality, an element of surprise and a timeless wearability to each piece.

"Ashley and I saw an opportunity to create a contemporary line that focuses on the details-such as buttons, lining and fit-in a different way and really elevate the standards of what is currently available in the marketplace. We have collaborated with Jane Siskin (President of L'Koral) and it's been a lovely experience consulting and designing with her," says Mary-Kate Olsen.

"I am enjoying my role as co-designer for Elizabeth and James and look forward to the debut with our retailers who have been overwhelmingly receptive and positive. Furthermore, I am excited to introduce the consumer to a new collection in the growing contemporary market," says Ashley Olsen.

With new product groupings hitting the stores almost monthly, the Elizabeth and James customer is constantly on the cutting edge of style. The initial collection ranges from 25-75 pieces and includes outerwear, skirts, pants, dresses and tops. T-shirts run close to $90, jackets $395 and dresses $250-$495, with most pieces in the $200-$500 range. The Spring 2008 collection is scheduled to launch in early March.

Saira Zia, Contemporary Buyer for Holt Renfrew, says "Elizabeth and James has the perfect juxtaposition of masculine and feminine elements of style. The line captures a cool, contemporary feel that is very reminiscent of the designers themselves."

"Ashley and Mary-Kate are amazing. They are insightful, knowing exactly what the customer wants and needs while bringing their business knowledge, taste level and aesthetic into the mix. The combination of their talent and Koral's ability to build brands is a perfect partnership," says Jane Siskin.

L'Koral Industries, founded in 1982 and co-owned by partners Peter Koral and Jane Siskin has grown into a multifaceted apparel company. Best known for their multi-label junior business and the birth of 7 For All Mankind (now spun off and separately owned), as well as the hot contemporary LaROK brand, Koral continues to expand into new youth driven markets and expects to exceed a volume of over $200,000,000 this year.

Dualstar Entertainment Group, founded in 1993 by Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen, is a distinctive boutique global brand management company with offices in Culver City and New York.