AKIRA FOR LITTLIES? SYDNEY: It looks like Akira Isogawa might be entering a new market, with confirmation from the designer’s Sydney studio that work is underway on a childrenswear line. While Isogawa declined to comment on the project as yet, a spokesperson from Isogawa’s Marrickville headquarters said the childrenswear line was at the “development stage”. The womenswear designer’s latest collection, Printemps Été 2010, will drop in stores from March, with signature exotic prints and colours translated into tailored shapes.
MORE VEIN WEAR BRISBANE: Boutique men’s footwear brand Vein Wear is expanding its operations. The Australian label and retail business founded by Christopher McCallum will open its second retail store this week, in Adelaide Street in Brisbane’s CBD. The label will also unveil a special eight piece collection to celebrate the store opening, with new styles and colours including the two-tone Dandy Loafer and black suede Combo Boot. Retail prices start at $289.
REBEL REVAMPS VM NATIONAL: Rebel Group, which includes the Rebel Sport and Glue Store brands, has adopted a new visual merchandising software system. Merchandising company Metiri Mensus has revealed Rebel Group will use the Mockshop Visual Merchandising System to assist in planning the appearance of its 150-plus stores. Rebel Group is the first company in Australia to adopt the Mockshop software since its introduction to the local market late last year.
LIFT OFF AUCKLAND: Organisers of New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) have reason for celebration with the launch of a new consumer event in March. As exclusively reported on ragtrader.com.au in December, NZFW naming rights sponsor Air New Zealand pulled from the 2010 instalment following a strategic partnership spanning six years. However, the annual trade event will welcome a consumer-friendly sister this year with the launch of the New Zealand Fashion Festival, kicking off in Auckland on 16 March with a runway parade, party and a Designer Garage Sale. Similar to the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival, the event will include fashion shows and free events around the city.
