One of the best things about having an on-line presence is that it helps one connect with others with like interests.  Through my website and the VFG Label Resource, I've received hundreds of emails over the past 5 years.  Some are teenagers who want me to do their homework, but others have been truly amazing.

One such source of amazement was an email I got from Robert Colman, son of sportswear maker Alex Colman.  If you missed it, you can still read it in my archives.  Through the miracle that is Google, a former Colman employee named June found that post a few days ago and she added some personal insight to working at Alex Colman:

I worked for Alex Colman during the time that Robert (known widely as Bobby at that time) was president of the company. Over my professional career I worked for many apparel companies, but none could compare to the wonderful atmosphere at Alex Colman. The facilities were top-notch, and there were lovely little perks (awesome employee picnics, $100 annual Blue Cross medical deductible was reimbursed by the company, and we got our birthdays off as a paid holiday!).

One thing that Bobby forgot to mention that had a h-u-g-e emphasis was the importance of all pieces coordinating with each other. Related separates was in its infancy, but Alex Colman fully understood that. They also brought plus sizes for women out of the dark ages... no more were women of a certain size relegated to verticatl stripes, dark navy and black.

Thanks June.  I loved hearing from you.

I've got a few more connections to share this week..  Stay tuned.

To paraphrase Will Eogers, I never met an Alex Colman I didn't like. Just LOVE his prints. So refreshing to read about the humane running of his business. Thanks, Lizzie! Ain't the Internet grand?

Make that Will Rogers, sorry! Anyway, my favorite novelty print of all time is from a Colman shirt, smiling houses like 30s cartoons. Really great. Lots of pink and pale blue.