HIP Signs as Global Licensing Agent for New Lifestyle Brand from Supermodel Icon Lauren Hutton

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Nov. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- HIP has finalized an agreement with legendary model and entertainer Lauren Hutton to develop and implement a worldwide licensing and merchandising campaign for a broad range of lifestyle products that reflect the iconic personality's style and passion. The agreement was announced today by Melissa Segal, Senior Vice President of Global Consumer Products at HIP, and Lauren Hutton New York, LTD.

Under HIP, the Henson Independent Properties banner at The Jim Henson Company, the new line of Lauren Hutton branded consumer products will be developed for the growing population of women who are over 40, active, independent and aspire to age with beauty and style. HIP will launch the merchandise globally in 2012 with a focus on key categories that are classically stylish and accessibly priced, including apparel, eyewear, jewelry, handbags/luggage, home decor, travel and beauty accessories.

"Lauren Hutton is renowned as a trailblazer who continues to defy society's expectations of what defines a model and a woman," comments Segal.  "The Lauren Hutton brand presents a tremendous opportunity to reach a large and underserved demographic of women who will relate to the active and independent spirit of Ms. Hutton that is reflected in the new line."

"After almost 45 years of modeling for the top people in the fashion industry and traveling all over the world, I am excited to work with Henson Independent Properties to create The Lauren Hutton Brand that fills the needs of women today and helps them to age with style, grace, and confidence," said Lauren Hutton.

Lauren Hutton began modeling and acting in the 1960's, and in 1974 was the first model to land a million dollar, multi-year contract with a cosmetics company. Hutton has continued to model through every decade and is still very active and has recently modeled for Italian Vanity Fair, Oprah, Chico's, J. Crew and Alexis Bittar.  In 2002, Hutton launched her own successful direct-to-consumer cosmetic line, "Good Stuff," on the Home Shopping Network.  In 2003, the brand was renamed "Lauren Hutton" and grew into a multi-million dollar business.

Hutton continues to work as a model in fashion and entertainment and is an avid world traveler, scuba diver and sled dog racer.  She has also starred in feature films and television series, including "American Gigolo," "The Gambler," "Once Bitten," "Central Park West," and recently "The Joneses."

HIP, a third party licensing banner formed by The Jim Henson Company in 2009, was established to acquire and service global consumer products programs for external brands and entertainment properties. Segal, the former owner of the innovative consumer products agency, Brandolution, spearheads HIP.  Additionally, HIP is actively pursuing opportunities to grow its portfolio of brands, which currently also includes "Skatelab" and "The String Doll Gang."

SOURCE Jim Henson Company