The smart brands, though, see this opportunity and are making it their business to reach her specifically -- not just add her sizes as an afterthought.

Holiday sales surpassed expectations and left many brands and retailers with something of a gift as the New Year kicks off.

Regarding the U.S. economy, less than half of all consumers (46 percent) say they are optimistic toward the outlook for the U.S. economy, according to the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle MonitorTM…