NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 2004--Candie's, Inc. (NASD:CAND) and Kohl's Corporation (NYSE:KSS) today announced plans to introduce Candie's into its junior and girls departments beginning in the fall of 2005 in all stores and on Kohls.com.

The Candie's brand which is being licensed to Kohl's under a long-term agreement, is among the most recognized national brands. Candie's is known for its innovative marketing and trendy fashions for young shoppers. Kohl's will be the exclusive provider in the United States of all Candie's apparel, such as sportswear, accessories, and intimate apparel.

Candie's footwear, which is designed, manufactured and distributed by Steven Madden Ltd. (NASDAQ:SHOO), will be introduced at Kohl's as part of the launch. Both Candie's footwear and handbags will continue to be distributed through a variety of specialty and department stores through the end of 2006. Beginning January 2007, the Candie's brand in its entirety will be available exclusively at Kohl's.

"Candie's has strong name-recognition among Kohl's female shoppers," said Kevin Mansell, Kohl's president. "We look forward to developing the Candie's collection, allowing us to achieve a spectrum of styles that address the fashion demands of today's young shopper. This is an exciting opportunity that strengthens our mission to deliver national brands, but even more importantly, clearly differentiates Kohl's in the marketplace."

Neil Cole, chairman and CEO of Candie's commented, "This strategic partnership will transform Candie's into a total lifestyle concept and provide the brand with unprecedented access to a national infrastructure of stores, distribution, and marketing as well as a vibrant consumer base. Now, with the strength of Kohl's behind the brand, we believe that Candie's will rise to a whole new level."

About Candie's

Candie's, Inc. is in the business of licensing the CANDIE'S, BONGO and BADGLEY MISCHKA trademarks on a variety of women's footwear, apparel and fashion products. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Brightstar Footwear, Inc., the Company also arranges for the manufacture of footwear products for mass market and discount retailers under the private label brand of the retailer. For investor information please visit the corporate web site at http://www.candiesinc.com.

About Kohl's

Based in Menomonee Falls, Wis., Kohl's is a family-focused, value oriented specialty department store offering moderately priced national brand apparel, shoes, accessories and home products. The company operates 637 stores in 40 states. For a list of store locations, or for additional information, visit Kohl's web site at www.kohls.com.

    CONTACT: For Kohl's:   Vicki Shamion, 262-703-1464
             For Candies:  Maria Dolgetta, 212-819-2084

    SOURCE: Candie's, Inc.