Web Briefs

Burqini success
SYDNEY: Australian Muslim sportswear supplier Ahiida, famous for creating a Burqini swimsuit for Australian Muslim lifesavers, won the account to dress short distance running champion Ruqaya Al Ghasara at the Beijing Olympics. Ghasara wore a locally manufactured body-covering top, including a modern Hijab, for the 200 metre sprint event. Ahiida managing director Aheda Zanetti said the brand had received "significant" international interest since rising to prominence with its Burqini swimsuit. Zanetti is currently working with government export agency Austrade to expand her global presence.

Decjuba goes low
MELBOURNE: Fashion brand Decjuba - part of the Covert Fashions group - is putting its best foot forward for summer with the launch of its first footwear collection. The on-trend offering features a range of sandals - including gladiator and classic styles - as well as high heeled pumps in peep toe and strap styles. Designed to complement Decjuba's spring/summer clothing range, the colour palette would include black, cream and tan with flashes of soft gold and deep lilac. Hitting stores this month, the collection's price points range range from $110 to $190.

New face at Jeanswest
MELBOURNE: Denim giant Jeanswest has appointed a new general manager of product. Freya Cutelli will join the company in early September, bringing a broad range of experience to the role, comprising high level positions at fast fashion Australian retail brands including Sportsgirl, Witchery and Sussan. A spokesperson for the company confirmed Cutelli's was a new position re-aligned from the role of product director, previously occupied by Tali Kalb, who had left the company to pursue other interests. Jeanswest director of merchandise Belinda Barlow welcomed the appointment. Barlow said Cutelli's experience, passion and retail "know-how" would significantly strengthen the group's already strong product team.

Discounts on offer
MELBOURNE: Fashion brands look set to benefit from the Victorian capital's latest discount shopping centre. The new Brand Junction outlet will open its doors on November 7, the discount brand outlet centre is part of MAB Corporation's University Hill precinct. It will comprise three major retail precincts: fashion and accessories - with labels including MNG, Guess, Gazman, Pelaco, Strandbags, Travelite, Novo, Midas, Mollini and Milu Shoes; Streetwear and Sportswear - including Lorna Jane, Fila, Russell Athletic, Octane, Plunj and Globalize; and Homewares - showcasing a range of home and lifestyle brands, including Australia's largest outlet for lifestyle and fashion brand Laura Ashley. The precinct is also set to develop an entertainment area including restaurants, bars and possibly a cinema complex.