Women's Clothing Retailer maurices Promotes Fashion for Philanthropy

DULUTH, MN -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 05/03/11 -- Call it fashion. Call it philanthropy. Or, better yet -- call it fashion for philanthropy. maurices (NASDAQ: ASNA), a nationwide young women's specialty clothing store, is selling the Hope Bracelet, transforming fashion into philanthropy by helping the American Cancer Society save lives and create a world with more birthdays.

Designed exclusively for maurices, the silver-tone chain-link Hope Bracelet sells for $5 in all 760+ stores as well as online, now through July 31 or while supplies last. With a simple rhinestone stud and a daintily curved engraved ID plate reading "hope," these feminine, trendy bracelets are truly a symbol of hope -- hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day cancer will be eliminated.

maurices is entering its seventh year participating in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life® National Team Program. The company is contributing $2.50 from the sale of each Hope Bracelet to the American Cancer Society.

As the American Cancer Society's signature fundraising activity, Relay For Life is an inspiring and life-changing event that annually unites in excess of 3.5 million people in more than 5,200 U.S. communities as well as in 20 other countries. Participants take turns walking or running around a track or path to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and make a commitment to fight back against the disease.

"maurices is a great partner of the American Cancer Society and Relay For Life," said Scott Bennett, national vice president, marketing, American Cancer Society. "Their amazing support through the years has helped the American Cancer Society positively impact so many lives. We are very grateful for their efforts."

More than 200 maurices Relay For Life teams have already committed to 2011 Relay events, and through participation in those Relay events and in Hope Bracelet sales, maurices is striving to surpass its 2010 contribution of $360,000 to the American Cancer Society. To learn more about maurices or shop online, visit www.maurices.com.a