That's hot: Australian women to get a touch of Paris

NATIONAL: She's fronted a clothing line, a jewellery range and a purse collection. Now the face that's launched a thousand brands is set to debut a new enterprise in Australasia.

Heiress, businesswoman and tabloid topper Paris Hilton has teamed up with one of the largest accessory suppliers in the Southern Hemisphere to release a range of handbags.

Milleni, which currently services in excess of 3500 retail outlets throughout the region, has secured the distribution rights for Paris Hilton Handbags in both Australia and New Zealand. Representatives for Milleni said the company had been approached to distribute the collection following its phenomenal success in the American, European and Asian markets.

Created in collaboration with Italian designer Paolo Coletto, the range includes totes, purses and clutches embellished in studs, ruffles, rhinestones, metallic fabrics and croc trims. Quilted and lace varieties are also available with all materials and designs sourced from Italy and America.

The debut collection, which was first showcased to buyers at trade fair Fashion Exposed in September, is priced from $95 to $350 and is aimed at the younger demographic. The first delivery of handbags is expected to take place in March 2008, following the release of Hilton's footwear line with the Antebi Footwear Group.

Milleni representative Rick Bielecki said although the company was still selling Paris Hilton Handbags, it had already secured major stockists nationwide.

"It is a welcome addition to the Milleni ranges and is proving early on to be highly successful," he said. "[Our aim is] to establish this range as a must have brand in Australia."

Milleni is a Victorian-based manufacturer, importer and distributor of leather, fashion, evening and travel accessories.

By Assia Benmedjdoub