Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1110880
letter publisher ANNE LAHO 22 M ay marks the homestretch of spring as we move into summer. PaperCity is still bustling with events and blockbuster openings that we are thrilled to be a part of, including the mid-month reopening of Ralph Lauren, which is now a multi-label store (Collection, Purple Label and Polo) for both men and women. For years, the quintessential American brand separated the labels into different boutiques, but this month returns to its roots with all brands under one roof in The Galleria. I'm thrilled to see this transition back to the original retail concept. I worked for Ralph Lauren in 1994 when the store was located in the old Galleria III. I was a senior in high school, and while I was only the cashier, I relished every minute of being part of the company. I loved it so much that I agreed to let my employers call me Leigh, because there was already a Monica working at that time. While this sounds like a manageable change, it was an utter disaster when I would continue to fold cashmere sweaters without batting an eye when they were paging "Leigh" back to the cash register. I eventually graduated to using my own name, but I will never forget what an amazing experience I had as my first job. This experience led me to pursue a retail merchandising degree in college, followed by a job with Giorgio Armani in New York, and I am now in my 14th year at PaperCity magazine, with Ralph Lauren as my advertiser. Life really does come full circle. One other must-see this month is the new Winston Candy Collection on view at Harry Winston in River Oaks District. This gorgeous collection of candy-colored and one-of-a-kind cocktail rings will be in the salon beginning Thursday, May 9. The collection travels to only four cities in the U.S. Have a wonderful month, and we hope you enjoy the issue. Monica Bickers Group Publisher monica@papercitymag.com