Charming Charlie’s exec named VP chief merchant of Dressbarn
Suffern, N.Y. -- Ascena Retail Group announced that Judith Langley has joined dressbarn as executive VP and chief merchandising officer.
Langley brings to Dressbarn extensive experience as a senior merchant and in product development. Most recently, she was executive VP and chief merchandising officer with Charming Charlie’s, a jewelry and accessories chain.
Previously, she was senior VP of design and trend at Kohl’s, where she oversaw product direction for 15 brands.
“Judi’s track record as a successful merchant with design expertise will be a tremendous asset to Dressbarn,” said Jeff Gerstel, president of Dressbarn. “I am pleased to welcome Judi to Dressbarn’s team and look forward to the leadership, creativity, and vision she will bring to our brand’s transformation.”
Games, giveaways, book signings and personalized recommendations will be offered as part of “Discovery Friday,” event Barnes & Noble has planned for Nov. 22 to pre-empt the doorbuster madness that will occur the following week on Black Friday.
All of the retailer’s stores nationwide will participate in the Discovery Friday event which Barnes & Noble said was created to serve as the official launch of the holiday shopping season and help customers experience the thrill of discovering the perfect gifts for friends and family. On Discovery Friday, Barnes & Noble’s said its booksellers will be on the front lines to provide personalized recommendations at its nearly 700 stores, an experience that Amazon.com can’t rival.
“Barnes & Noble offers the ultimate holiday shopping experience for customers who enjoy the art of discovery, appreciate the human touch and recognize that the best recommendations don’t come from an algorithm,” said Mitchell Klipper, CEO of the Barnes & Noble Retail Group. “Discovery Friday shines a light on our 40,000 booksellers, undeniably our greatest asset, and also celebrates our customers by bringing the spirit of fun and discovery to their holiday shopping experience.”