CPSC, Michael Simon Inc. Announce Faux Fur Sweater Recall

Washington, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Michael Simon Inc. of New York is recalling 907 faux fur sweaters in four styles, including three cardigans and one pullover. Based on tests conducted by CPSC, the faux fur fabric of the sweaters fails to comply with the flammability standard under the Flammable Fabrics Act. The garments, considered "dangerously flammable," are unsuitable for use for clothing because of rapid and intense burning.

CPSC learned of the problem while investigating a burn injury involving one of the recalled sweaters, reported by the Northbrook, Illinois, Fire Department. CPSC and the company are not aware of other injuries involving the sweaters.

The four styles are as follows: Style #7348 Spot Cardigan in black and white; Style #7384X Puppy Cardigan in black only; Style #9047 Fur Cardigan; and Style #9048, Fur Popover pullover sweater in solid colors of black, ivory, steel blue, and pink. The sweaters, which are available in Size 1 (Small to Medium) and Size 2 (Medium to Large), have a sewn-in neck label that reads, "MICHAEL SIMON NEW YORK," with a second neck label reading in part, "88% Rayon/Rayonne 12% Nylon/Nylon Made in HONG KONG ***" or "Made in CHINA *** RN 73106."

The sweaters were sold by approximately 100 retailers nationwide from July 1993 through October 1994 for $175 to $200. Major retailers such as Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Lord and Taylor, and Loehmann's sold the sweaters.

Consumers should stop wearing the sweaters immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund of the purchase price. Consumers who have questions can call Michael Simon at (212) 382-1910.