Federated Has its American Idol

Federated Department Stores Inc. (Cincinnati) and Tarrant Apparel Group (Los Angeles) have announced that Fantasia Barrino, this year’s winner of the “American Idol” television talent contest, will be spokesmodel for Federated’s American Rag Cie private-label apparel brand.

Barrino will be appearing in a national advertising campaign, making personal appearances in the American Rag Cie shops in select Macy’s stores and wearing the brand in public appearances throughout the year.

“We’re thrilled to have Fantasia on board,” said Nancy Slavin, group vp, marketing, for Federated Merchandising Group (New York). “She has a great presence and exemplifies the cool personality of the American Rag Cie brand. We know she resonates with our customer.”

American Rag Cie is a casual sportswear collection for juniors and young men ages 19-24 grounded in denim looks with vintage styling. In March 2003, Federated established an exclusive partnership with Private Brands Inc., a division of Tarrant and the owners of American Rag Cie license, to roll out this brand to select Federated stores nationwide. American Rag Cie is available exclusively at more than 180 Macy’s stores nationwide.

Barrino, a 20-year-old from North Carolina, was crowned this year’s “Idol” by 1.3 million votes. Her CD single, “I Believe,” was released on June 22, 2004. She will be performing in more than 50 cities nationwide as part of the American Idols Live tour.