February '05
Hint pays attention to retail



All you gas-guzzlers out there have probably noticed a curious development over at Diesel. In the last few months, the number of U.S. outlets selling the Italian brand has dropped faster than a school lunch program from a Bush budget. What's the meaning of this? Diesel's image, we're told, is being reformulated from regular to premium. But, thankfully, basking in the glow of the Chanel and Burberry boutiques that flank it, a shiny new Diesel store has rolled out in SoHo. All things Diesel can be found in the two-story space, from a full selection of men's and women's clothes to shoes, sunglasses, bags and, of course, that trademark wall of denim. The interior design is smooth, modern and open, but best of all—and the celebrities among you surely know this already—are two VIP dressing areas with a private bathroom, a kitchen and a multi-mirrored round room, all tucked away behind a velvet curtain. Just don't be surprised who you bump into when you sneak back there, and we know you will. Diesel, 135 Spring Street, 212-625-1555.
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