Designer goods a cut above
I am in charge of the distribution for DKNY and Kenzo in Australia and New Zealand.
I am writing to you with regard to the article published in Ragtrader headlined "Chipie chic for Aussie chicks" [January 13, 2006].
My concern about this article is the misunderstanding that people can have with designers brands and clothing industry (I distribute for Elle and Timberland as well). I understand Ragtrader is a professional magazine and should give true information about our fashion industry.
So what is a designer brand? Behind both the Donna Karen New York and Kenzo labels there is are designers that have been recognized as two of the great designers of our century on an international scale. They are innovative in style, technique, fabrics and have created a clothing philosophy with a style of life, for example Kenzo with nature and DKNY with practical and comfortable street wear "make it yours".
These children's collections are based on the adult range and approved by the designer themselves (Donna Karen for DKNY and Antonio Marras for Kenzo). The actual childrenswear is presented on the prêt a porter catwalk in Paris and their work has been acknowledged via numerous "haute couture" awards. These designers' brands are becoming world leader in fashion trends. DKNY is part of the LVMH group, which of course stands for high luxury brand.
I believe that we shouldn't mix our prestigious designer brands with commercial clothing even if some of them wish to compete with price point but have nothing to do with our quality, designs and international recognition.
I am distributing Burberry children'swear from winter 07 and don't see any trouble comparing this luxury brand with Oilily.