Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Flower power: 'Blinged-up' poppies have the X Factor as sales set to reach £40million

While the Poppy Appeal has always been a successful fundraising venture, the pin itself has never really been regarded as a fashion staple.

But thanks to a revamp - and a string of celebrity endorsements, the accessory has become a style must-have - and an instant sell-out hit.

The new range of poppies is expected to generate more than £40million this year - the biggest in the history of the Royal British Legion, currently celebrating its 90th anniversary.

Poppies have gained in popularity after featuring on talent contests the X Factor and Strictly Come Dancing last year, with every judge and contestant sporting them during the live shows.

And sales have soared once again when the glitzy poppies were reintroduced again this month.

But for the glamour of Saturday night television, the £1 paper and plastic flower just won't do.

The traditional poppy has been given a makeover by jeweler Kleshna, who is using Swarovski crystals to jazz up designs, with some retailing at £59.99.

Most of the new range is currently out of stock on the Royal British Legion website - with a notice on the homepage warning customers they are experiencing delays due to the high volume of orders.

A crystal-encrusted brooch selling for £15 sold out on shopping channel QVC in record time - raising £100,000 for the cause, with proceeds going to help war veterans.

Other variations include cufflinks, rings, friendship bracelets and hair barrettes.

British Royal Legion spokesman Robert Lee told The Times: 'Last year Strictly and X Factor got tremendous exposure.

'This year it is no longer us going to celebs. They are coming to us and asking to have them.'

On top of basic sales, accounting for 90 per cent of funds raised, celebrity poppies will be sold at auction.

But the new wave of 'blinged-up' poppies has also generated some debate about whether the sensitive cause should be subject to 'glamourising'.

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