NEWS Briefs
MELBOURNE: Hawthorn designer Megan Bird has launched a debut collection of kitchen apparel. The collection, dubbed Olivia Gene, features a distinctive range of printed aprons under the codenames of 'york', 'georgia' and 'manly'.
Available only online, colours include rich brown, olive and chocolate and are priced at $99.95. For more: oliviagene.com.au
Dinnigan return
SYDNEY: Australian-based eveningwear designer Collette Dinnigan has announced she will return to the Paris catwalk. The first ever Australian designer invited to show her collection in the French capital, her appearance at the Carrousel du Louvre will mark the 12th time the former Wellington Polytechnic student has showed at the event. Dinnigan, who will present her autumn/fall 2007 collection in Paris on March 04, remains the only Australian designer on the schedule.
Wills leather bound
SYDNEY: Randwick-based jewellery designer Samantha Wills has released a debut leather collection. Timed to coincide with Wills' 10th release, the new range features 19 embellished vintage clutches, matching belts and overnight bags inspired by a collection of photographs taken by the designer's parents before she was born. Prices range from $78 for a simple clutch to $320 for the overnight bag. For more: 02 9398 9864.
Super refined
PATTERSON LAKES: Gossard Lingerie has relaunched its Superboost Satin range just in time for trade fair Fashion Exposed. The UK-headquartered brand, distributed locally by Aesthete Australia, has incorporated a new satin fabric, satin cup linings, gold rings and slides into its existing range. Other noticeable changes include a straight back instead of the tell-tale 'gate' back normally found on cleavage enhancing bras. The range is available in colours including black, white and cappuchino and comes in all cup sizes up to G.
Myer mag
NATIONAL: Homegrown department store Myer has teamed with News Limited's magazine arm to launch a new glossy lifestyle magazine. Expected to debut in May, the quarterly magazine will feature the latest in fashion, beauty, and home and living. The magazine will be headed by former donna hay editor Jana Frawley. Myer chief executive Bernie Brookes said the initiative would help position Myer as an "innovator in the Australian fashion, retail and magazine space".
Lacoste launch
SYDNEY: Lifestyle brand Lacoste will open its first Australian flagship store in Sydney's Pitt Street next month. The shop, a collaboration between Paris-based architect Patrick Rubin, furniture designer Christophe Pillet and Lacoste creative director Christopher Lemaire each of whom spent two years on the project, will be located opposite the Westin Hotel. Hoping to help update the brand's retail image, the store replicates the mood of a country club with wood fixtures and grass green carpet.