Briefs

CBD HOME FOR CYLK
MELBOURNE: Seamless fashion specialist Cylk is conducting its second test of the CBD retail market with the opening of a pop-up store in Melbourne Central. Open until August 2010, the store will sell Cylk’s autumn/winter 2010 collection, as well as its bamboo body seamless shapewear range. It is Cylk’s second foray into retailing, with the brand operating a pop-up store at QV in Melbourne earlier this year. Cylk said it is looking to open a permanent Melbourne site in the wake of its trials. Stockists include David Jones in Australia, Henri Bendel in New York, Fred Segal in Los Angeles and Mitsukoshi in Japan.

WOOLLY WARM COMPETITION
MELBOURNE: Outdoorwear retailer Snowgum will launch a new wool-focused label to rival New Zealand’s Icebreaker brand. Snowgum presently has its own eponymous label with product including apparel and footwear for men, women and children. The new wool product will be made from Australian merino wool, sourced via Australian Wool Innovation, and will carry the  Woolmark logo. Snowgum has stores across Australia and New Zealand and its product is also stocked in outdoor and camping stores.

EXPORT CLUSTER CLOSE
SYDNEY: The Council of Textiles and Fashion Industries of Australia (TFIA) is just days away from announcing the members of its recently formed Australian Fashion Export Cluster (AFEC). The TFIA initiated the NSW-based cluster to encourage fashion businesses that are looking to export for the first time to share ideas and resources. While the TFIA initiated the cluster’s formation, its activities will be determined by its soon-to-be announced members. The TFIA expects the cluster will comprise 20 to 25 fashion businesses.

BRIDAL BUSINESS
SYDNEY: From July 22 to 25, Surry Hills in Sydney will be home to the inaugural New York Bridal Gala. The event will showcase the creations from New York-based designers, including bridal gowns, bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride outfits, lingerie and accessories. Event director Angela Wilson said it was a chance for Australian brides to see creations not currently available on the local market. Prices for the consumer fashion event start from $50. More information can be found at www.angelawilson.com.