The Other Epidemic

This is awareness month for a disease that is the leading cancer killer of women; every 12 minutes, a woman dies of breast cancer. Its cause is still unknown. But when diagnosed and treated early, the five-year survival rate is 91%. Avon Products has waged a crusade focusing on education and early detection services. Activities include raising funds through the sale of a metal pink loop that signifies support and hope, like the red ribbon has for AIDS. The pin sells for $2 and comes in two sizes--the smaller one without the rose is ideal for men. All proceeds go to groups allied in the fight.

Out of the Woods

Whether it’s TV’s “Northern Exposure” or counterculture grunge, flannel, overalls and other items fit for the forest became wardrobe staples this year. The trend has shrunk now . . . to sizes suited for tots. “It’s that revitalized interest in the outdoors and that north woods look that’s trickled down for kids,” says Linda Barran, a designer at OshKosh B’Gosh. Amusingly, the Wisconsin label has had a century-long corner on the “trend.” Look for fisherman and log cabins printed on flannel and plenty of denim. The clothes, she says, are “so good for (youngster’s) active lifestyle.”

Rules Get Trendy

With big city schools requiring clear backpacks for security reasons, Minneapolis-based street wear line Tasty Milkshake complied with its own campy take. “We thought it would be funny to have a cat with a cheesy grin,” says designer Molly Bondhus. So far, response for the $28 plastic pack has been overwhelming. “Kids are wearing them to clubs, on the streets and using them instead of a purse. Guys like them, too.” So do the kids in Japan, she adds, where the label and the knapsack are now a fad.

Streaking Is Back

You can’t hit a club without spotting male or female patrons with streaked hair framing their mugs. Front sections are dyed platinum to contrast with a head of darker hair, usually of darker golds and reds, according to Traci Strain, a hair stylist at Rees International in San Juan Capistrano. The halo formed around the face, says Strain, is in keeping with the waif look. So with everyone doing it, what’s next? “Probably dark in front, but that’s more punk.”