Hot 100 List - Internet Retailer

All dressed up and ready to sell

Innovative business models. Personalized product recommendations. Practical tools. The apparel and accessories retailers in this year's Hot 100 are leveraging the power of the Internet to make it easier—and more fun—to shop online.

Company

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ABERCROMBIE.COMA consistent feel

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AE.COMSoaring site design

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ANNTAYLOR.COMSelling with style

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ARIAT.COMWrangling up content

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COACH.COMA magazine approach

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CUSTOMINK.COMCustomized service

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Why They're Hot:

CustomInk LLC makes it easy to create items that carry exactly the words and images the consumer wants. That may be shirts with each player's name and number for the softball team, mugs with corporate logos or gag gifts. In the Design Lab at CustomInk.com, the consumer chooses the item and color; adds sizes and places text; and uploads images or chooses from a library of stock art. A video explains each step, and the site encourages visitors to reach out for help via phone or live chat. When the consumer is satisfied with her design, the Design Lab provides an instant price quote. The e-retailer prides itself on its service, and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, which is rare on custom products. An August 2011 redesign introduced a new logo, featuring a friendly octopus named Inky.