Briefs
Surfing success
BURLEIGH HEADS: Australian headquartered surfwear brand Billabong has dominated proceedings at the Surf Industry Manufacturers Award (SIMA) in the United States. The multinational brand, which last year added Sydney label Tigerlily to its stable, took out the three categories at the annual awards show. These included Environmental Product of the Year for its 'Sonic Recycler' boardshort, Women's Apparel Brand of the Year for Billabong Girls and Women's Marketing Campaign of the Year for its 'Loaded' campaign for its Juniors line. Other winning brands included Insight, RVCA and Hurley. For more: Billabong.com
Bollé licenses
MELBOURNE: Apparel and accessories merchandising company The Overland Group has acquired the license for apparel brand Bollé Australia. The brand, which was previously managed by Pelaco International, will be sold and managed by The Overland Group alongside its existing labels Diadora, AFL and Cricket Australia.
It is understood the contract takes effect from the conclusion of the existing Pelaco agreement set to expire December 30 after delivery of the Summer 2008 range into store. For more: 03 9819 9055.
Designer honour
NEW ZEALAND: Elizabeth and Neville Findlay, the founders of successful New Zealand clothing label Zambesi, have been jointly made officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit. The pair was awarded the honour for their services to business and fashion, in a career spaning more than 30 years. The award follows the news the brand, which already sells across Europe, North America, Asia, the UK and Australia, will soon make a major push into the Japanese and Russian markets. For more: zambesi.co.nz
Croc-o-change
NATIONAL: Plastic footwear brand Crocs has diversified its offering to incorporate a new range of mobile accessories. The first product of the new line, dubbed Crocs O-dial, features a universally-sized mobile device case with adjustable strap. Retailing for $17.50, the product is available in eight colours including black, silver, red, grape, fuchsia, celery, cotton candy and turquoise.
Sport-ing partners
NATIONAL: National womenswear retailer Sportsgirl has announced a limited edition collaboration with emerging designer Stephanie Eagles and her leatherwear label Bahamonde. The range, available in eight styles, includes bags, belts, boots, skirts and a bolero with a colour palette featuring metallic silver and grey, slate, vintage tan and black. Prices range from $89 for a saddle belt to $249 for a high-waisted leather skirt or metallic boots.
For more: http://www.sportsgirl.com.au