Briefs

On your Marcs
WELLINGTON: High street retail brand Marcs has opened its second store across the Tasman. The M Webster Holdings-owned label already operates a store in Auckland but earlier this month opened at a new retail site in Wellington's Lambton Quay precinct. The brand operates 12 stores across Australia - including three warehouse stores - and is also wholesaled nationally through David Jones and Myer. M Webster Holdings acquired Marcs from the Oroton Group in 2006.

PR how to
MELBOURNE: Victorian public relations firm PR Darling will shortly be passing on its best kept secrets to designers wishing to emulate its success. The firm has introduced a new initiative dubbed 'Attention Seeker' where it will teach individuals how to effectively manage their own public relations. Held one day a month over a six month period, students will be given one-on-one meetings where they will be encouraged to discuss their business communication strategies and learn how to run an efficient PR campaign. Subjects covered include building media lists, writing for the press, staging media launches and developing a media portfolio. For more: 03 9428 8864.

Markets now monthly
BRISBANE: Queensland designers seeking to take their labels to a wider audience have been given a broader platform after the organisers of quarterly fashion offering the South Bank Young Designers Market elected to change its frequency to monthly. The change, which takes effect from Sunday June 7, aims to provide "greater support" to local talent and to cater to increasing demand for stalls from emerging designers. Organisers said the market was particularly attractive to emerging designers who could meet their consumers and sell their designs without expensive overheads. For more: 07 3252 5735.

Eco brand expands
SYDNEY: Accessory brand Apple & Bee has launched its first collection targeted at fashion consumers. Founded by former Marie Claire art director Claire Morris and skincare entrepreneur Brett Pattinson, the Sydney label specialises in ecologically friendly cosmetic, travel and baby bags. The latest venture meant purses, clutches and overnight bags would be introduced into the stable with the debut collection featuring Japanese flower prints against black and silver organic fabrics. All bags are lined in bamboo silk with prices starting at $90.