dressbarn's Lela is Back to Fight Cancer; The 2005 Limited Edition Lela Hits Stores in October; dressbarn to Contribute All Proceeds to the American Cancer Society

In support of National Breast Cancer Awareness month inOctober, dressbarn will once again contribute all net profits from thesale of Lela, a limited edition lamb stuffed animal, to the AmericanCancer Society. For every Lela sold at $5, dressbarn will contribute$2 to support local and national breast cancer initiatives. Withalmost 800 locations nationwide, dressbarn hopes to raise $150,000this year and has proudly donated over $1 million dollars to theAmerican Cancer Society through in store promotions and itsparticipation in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life(R).

"Lela, which means 'innocent lamb' in Hawaiian, is dressbarn'smascot. She symbolizes the spirit of warmth and caring that epitomizesthe family-run retailer's long-standing commitment to its employees,customers and local communities," said Vivian Behrens, dressbarnsenior vice president of marketing. "The 2005 limited edition Lelawill be available during the month of October to help raise awarenessand fight a disease that affects so many lives. We have no doubt shewill be well received by all those who support our efforts, and we arevery excited about the impact she'll have in raising funds for such animportant cause."

This year, over 210,000 women in the United States will bediagnosed with invasive breast cancer, and over 40,000 women will diefrom the disease. While there is no cure for breast cancer, earlydetection and improved treatment is considered critical to survivingthis disease, which is the second leading cause of cancer death inwomen. The American Cancer Society raises funds for breast cancerresearch, patient services, education, and advocacy.

dressbarn is an active contributor to charities dedicated toimproving and empowering women's lives. In addition to contributingproceeds from sales of the 2005 limited edition Lela, dressbarn willagain offer customers a convenient bookmark containing guidelines forearly detection of breast cancer. Available while supplies last, thebookmark includes a coupon for 20 percent off any single item thatcustomers may use toward dressbarn purchases made between November 1 -15, 2005.

About dressbarn:

dressbarn (Nasdaq: DBRN) operates a national chain of almost 800specialty stores featuring its own line of career and casual fashionsfor the working woman at value prices. dressbarn's pricing andconvenient locations differentiate it from department stores while itsstrategic focus on styles for today's woman sets it apart from otherspecialty apparel retailers. These elements, combined with an emphasison customer service and product knowledge, have earned the retailer adevoted following.

Editor's Note:

An image of the 2005 Lela is available upon request. Please emailfbrigatti@golinharris.com