NEWS Briefs
SYDNEY: The brainchild behind cult brands Hussy and Madame Marie has made a lasting impression on the Middle East. Recently invited to attend the Aus Style trade show in Dubai, Marie Hatzis managed to
Esprit freshens up
NATIONAL: International lifestyle brand Esprit is set to bolster its national presence this year with major revamps set for both stores and product lines. As well as renovating its existing outfits in Australia, the brand will stock a new-look global collection from autumn/winter 2007 and unveil an entirely refurbished Sydney QVB store later this month. It is understood the company is aiming to counteract a slump in local sales after it recorded a 9.3 per cent decrease in activity last year. Ragtrader will feature a full profile on Esprit's new direction in its next issue; out February 23.
Ben Sherman rocks
NATIONAL: In a bid to strengthen its ties with young Australian consumers, British streetwear brand Ben Sherman has enlisted a local band as the face of its autumn/winter 2007 ad campaign. Red Riders, a Sydney-based rock and roll group, will join a host of Australian artists who have fronted for the label including The Sleepy Jackson, Youth Group and The Gates. The collection will feature a "mod-punk preppy range" with signature pieces including a double-breasted trench coat for women and a zip-thru Harrington jacket for men.
Johnston & Johnston
MELBOURNE: Australian womenswear designer Kirrily Johnston is set to open her first, stand-alone Melbourne boutique later this month. This is Johnston's second Australian retail store, following the launch of her flagship boutique in Sydney's Paddington during June 2005. The designer - who also has 45 wholesaling accounts including department store David Jones - confirmed she would officially kick off an online business to coincide with the unveiling of the store. The boutique is located at 1033 High Street, Armidale.
Sparkling Secrets
SYDNEY: Australian publicity magnate Max Markson is set to unveil the secrets behind brand promotion in a series of workshops and conferences next month. The brainchild behind PR company Markson Sparks will facilitate discussions as high-profile guest speakers give their take on event management, PR and celebrity endorsements. Priced at $955, the workshops will run from March 3 to 25. For more: 02 9699 2000.