RSL fires at Sylvester

SYDNEY: The domestic launch of New Zealand designer Kate Sylvester's menswear and eyewear line has been marred by what one newspaper has dubbed "a different kind of fashion disaster".

The designer, who returned to the Rosemount Australian Fashion Week circuit after a three year absence, has been condemned by the Australian Returned and Services League (RSL) yesterday for using war medals in her spring/summer collection.

RSL national secretary Derek Robson said the use of medals as "appalling" and "sickening" in an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald.

"I am appalled on behalf of those who have committed so much. To do something so flippant and dismissive is unfathomable," he said.

The Age, The New Zealand Herald, Ninemsn and radio networks throughout the country have also given the outcry premium positioning and airtime.

As reported exclusively in Ragtrader magazine, Sylvester's menswear line made a trial drop in Australia over March and a full release is expected for spring/summer 2008. The debut autumn/winter 2008 collection included a muted wool duffel coat, parka and tapered skinny track packs and was priced from $95 to $995.

For an extensive breakdown of Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, grab a copy of Ragtrader magazine's May 16 issue.