Web briefs

On Target
NATIONAL: Discount department store Target has added another silver lining to its womenswear offering.  The value retailer, which recently announced American eveningwear giant Zac Posen as its next designer collaborator, has launched a new Limited Editions label.  Aimed at high fashion consumers, the debut autumn/winter collection is comprised of fabrics such as Australian merino wool, angora, cashmere and silk. Highlights include A-line tie-waisted skirts, jewel-toned tees in soft jerseys, high-waisted herringbone pants and elegant wool capes. Prices range from $60 for a tweed waistcoat to $150 for a heavy wool coat with a waist-tie and bell sleeves. Value classics such as crisp white shirts, scoop-neck knitted dresses and fine blouses are also on offer with sizes ranging from 8 to 16. The collection is currently available in select Target retail stores nationwide.

AWI venture
NATIONAL: Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) has sets its sights on the lucrative Asian and Middle East market by teaming up with an Indian clothing label. The collaboration means AWI will work jointly with menswear brand Park Avenue to launch a range of products into the to markets. The venture's latest Australian merino wool collection includes a new machine-washable wool suit, to be released across India in April, which means the rising demands for "easy care" clothing.  AWI CEO Craig Welsh said the collaboration made sense as India is Australian merino wool's fourth largest customer.

Classic win
SYDNEY: Classic Sportswear has continued its run of success adding Australian Rugby League Development (ARLD) to its list of clients. The Camperdown-headquartered company will now be responsible for developing apparel and merchandise for the group which aims to promote rugby league from introductory level to teenagers aged up to 18. Classic has also signed on as a sponsor where it has agreed to supply apparel to ARLD's development officers and executive as well as to part-time and casual staff. The win comes at a hectic time for the brand which recently announced its appointment as the Rugby League World Cup's apparel and headwear partner.

Review sought
NATIONAL: The Australian Sporting Goods Association (ASGA) has announced plans to undertake a strategic review. It is understood members of the sporting body - which includes representatives from big name brands Reebok, Adidas, Asics, Puma, New Blance, Dunlop and Foot Locker - have been sent questionnaires asking for their thoughts on the group's future positioning. ASGA executive director Sean Cary said the group's new strategic plan would be launched during its annual industry forum on May 20.

Shoe shop
MELBOURNE: New shoe phenomenon BelleBika has gained a foothold in the chic environs of South Melbourne. The designer shoe label - created by design duo Romina Disisto and Anita Ukalovic - has opened its first flagship store in the suburb. Retailing at between $300 and $550, the brands claims its shoes are founded on a distinctive aesthetic while local manufacture ensured premium quality and short, exclusive runs. A Sydney BelleBika store is planned during the next 12 months, with further outlets planned in Perth and Brisbane over the longer term.