THE 1ST ANNUAL DNR HOT LIST; BUZZ CAN JUMP-START THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL OF ANY BRAND, ESPECIALLY IN THE FICKLE WORLD OF FASHION. HERE'S A SNAPSHOT OF THE PEOPLE AND PRODUCTS, LABELS AND IDEAS THAT HAVE THE MEN'S WEAR INDUSTRY TALKING -- AT LEAST THIS WEEK.

Daily News Record, August, 2003

Hot New Label: Trovata

The Preppie Handbook meets The Endless Summer in the designs of Trovata, a foursome of hip twenty-something guys who bring humor and unique details to this year-old label. The crew's groovy style has even attracted the attention of female fashionistas -- perhaps you saw the designing dudes in last month's Vogue.

Runner-up: Valentino R.E.D.

Hot West Coast Label: Von Dutch Originals

Inspired by the storied auto pinstriper Kenneth Howard -- who was known as Von Dutch -- this L.A-based company melds classic Americana and cutting-edge cool into a denim line that appeals equally to spoiled Malibu teens and grizzled bikers. This fall the brand beloved of hard-partying celebs will open stores in New York and Miami,...