SYDNEY: Australian denim brand 18th Amendment has suspended production in the wake of a crumbling northern hemisphere market, with its owners hopeful of reviving operations later this year.
Rachel and James Rose, who launched the brand three years ago with creative director Rebecca Dawson, are chasing close to $1 million in outstanding debts from international clients and have pulled over 100 retail accounts in the US.
The global financial crisis has struck a double blow for the two entrepreneurs, with a private investment deal also collapsing after the market crash in October. At the height of its trade, 18th Amendment was exporting to 600 stores across 20 countries.
These include department store Barney’s (US), Harvey Nichols (UK), Browns (UK) and Brown Thomas (Ireland). Domestic retailers confirmed the brand had not gone ahead with denim orders for the autumn/winter 2009 season and was not planning to release a spring/summer 2009/10 collection.
However, co-owner James Rose said 18th Amendment was not out of the picture entirely. “We are still supplying select stores in Australia with runs of tailoring and we will make an announcement on our plans in coming months,” he confirmed.
“Our two biggest markets were the US and UK and I am sure [the industry] is well aware retail has been destroyed over there.”
Rose would not comment on what financial avenues the brand was exploring nor offer an official date for its return to the market.
Despite its trading halt, domestic retailers contacted by Ragtrader said ongoing customer enquiries meant the brand still had strong support locally.
Marnie Goss, owner of frockshop.com.au, said 18th Amendment was among her top selling fashion labels. “They are a great brand for Australian consumers,” she said.
“Over the past couple of seasons, they really extended the range to include tailored pieces like jackets and pants – I’m sure they’ll continue extending that theme when they regroup and the market picks up.”
Former creative director Rebecca Dawson, who had worked closely with the brand since its launch in 2006, is now collaborating with iconic denim label Ksubi. In addition to designing the women’s denim line, she is also collaborating with founders Dan Single and George Gorrow on their ready-to-wear collections.
Prior to taking on a role at 18th Amendment, Dawson launched her own eponymous line at Australian Fashion Week in 2001. She has also collaborated with cashmere basics label Bezoar since 2006.
“I’m super busy and happy in my new role at Ksubi,” she said. “At present, I have no plans to resume my own label – but never say never.”