We are constantly keeping our ears and eyes open for innovative social media strategies embraced by the world of fashion. Every week we pull together a few of the top stories that really stood out, made noise, and caught our attention.

JCPenney Lauches “Haul Nation” video blogging for teens

JCPenny has announced a contest which gives teens the opportunity to video blog to win a trip to New York and tour of Seventeen Magazine’s offices. The contest is hosted on the jcpTeen and Seventeen Facebook pages as well as in malls across the country. Teens will create 3-5 minute fashion-related videos for the chance to win. jcpTeen fans can vote for their favorite videos. The grand prize also includes guest blogging opportunities, a JCPenney gift card and an iPad 2. Read More.

J Brand Revamps its Site To Embrace Social
J brand has launched a new website that simplifies shopping online. The “Style Notes” section showcases outfits and trends, including an option to “Shop this style”. Also added to the ecommerce section are Facebook and Twitter sharing features. The “J World” section allows users to upload a photo of themselves wearing their favorite pair of J Brand jeans and add it to the collage – the more “likes” a picture gets, the bigger it appears on the site. Read More.

Zappos Goes Digital In Latest Campaign

Never shy of the unusual, shoe and clothing retailer Zappos will launch a fall campaign featuring naked models doing everyday activities around the streets of Manhattan, their bodies censored by QR codes. Once scanned, the QR code takes the customer to a mobile site which features fictional videos of what happens to the women. They can then choose Zappos products to clothe them. The ads will feature in magazines such as Lucky, InStyle and Cosmopolitan. Read More.

Guess Launches Mobile App for VIPs

Guess is launching a mobile app for loyalty card members to offer deals based on purchase behavior, what they have Liked on Facebook and their location. Guess is encouraging members to download the app by offering points for a download. The brand is also looking into mobile payments and Google Wallet commerce. Executive Vice President CIO Mike Relish said that Guess aims to build up 250,000 “superfans” – ie. the most loyal customers – over the next year. Read more.

Macy’s celebrates back-to-school with social

Next week, Macy’s will launch a campaign on its Facebook page called “raise your thumb”. Users who become a thumb and nominate their school will get the chance to win a $25,000 classroom makeover. They’ve also partnered with DoSomething.org, an organization that helps young people reach out to causes. Customers can scan a QR code found at mstylelab departments in Macy’s stores to have Macy’s donate a dollar. For every “like” on the mstylelab Facebook Page, Macy’s will donate another dollar. Both campaigns can total up to $250,000 in donations. Read more.