Benetton Smooching Ad Pulled: In what comes as a surprise to no one, Benetton had to pull its ad featuring Pope Benedict XVI and a senior Egyptian imam kissing for the brand’s “Unhate” campaign. Apparently, the religious crowd was not feeling the shot. {Daily Mail}

Alber Elbaz and Betsey Johnson Decorate Christmas Trees: Famed London hotel, Claridge’s, is enlisting the help of Alber Elbaz to deck out their Christmas tree for the holidays. The tree will showcase Mr. Elbaz’s whimsical style, with marionettes dressed in Claridge’s staff uniforms hanging from its branches. Stateside, Betsey Johnson is set to decorate the tree at the Plaza Hotel. {WWD (Subscription required)}

Costello Tagliapietra to Release Lower Priced Line: For those women who “[can't] afford what equates to rent on a dress,” Costello Tagliapietra brings you C&T, their diffusion line set to release this spring. Each dress in the 13-piece collection will retail for $298. {WWD (Subscription required)}

Read more →