Fashion brands and designers are clamping down on intellectual property protection globally. but the battle line is also on the manufacturing front, krystil carter says.

NATIONAL: UK-based brand Karen Millen is preparing to boost its Australian store count and launch a limited edition collection and local e-store, ahead of its 30-year anniversary.

Ragtrader editor Assia Benmedjdoub and designer trade fair premiere staged an online roundtable of independent trade buyers to discuss key issues and innovations in the sector. Here, an edited transcript.

The operator behind Melbourne-based CM’s Fashion outlet is facing court yet again, barely one year after being fined for underpaying staff.

Trade creditors for collapsed denim stalwart Bettina Liano look set to receive 9.6 cents in the dollar,

What can independent buyers expect to see for the Australian autumn/winter 2012 season? Trend forecasting firms WGSN and Ginger Trend Consulting pinpoint popular trends and best sellers for the period.

MELBOURNE: Topshop franchise partner Next Athleisure has revealed the incentives behind its decision to launch through Melbourne shopping complex Jam Factory.

Business consultant Sarah Gale has worked as a buyer for giants including Sportsgirl, Witchery and Target. What’s her best piece of buying advice?

With retail on its knees, assia benmedjdoub asks what items buyers are looking for. With Sylvie Cornu, Phoebe Garland and Kath Purkis

As a new regional ambassador for trade fair Fashion Exposed, Deborah Caldwell has been moving across the country to talk to rural retailers. As she tells Daniela Aroche, the sector has been resilient in the face of very tough conditions.

Not one to stick to tradition, Gideon footwear has created a dynamic space to draw crowds to its latest outlet at Bondi Beach. Daniela Aroche takes a look at the high-impact space.

They turn a dollar by helping australian designers manufacture across offshore markets. Assia Benmedjdoub interviews sourcing agents Kylie Phipps and Valerie Tolosa – two women making waves in the asia pacific.

Fashion retailer Valleygirl has abruptly closed the doors on its online store, citing “overall business” concerns as the reason for the closure on its website.

Fashion footwear chain Novo has teamed with Spanish designer Angel Azorin to create an exclusive shoe collection, marking the first collaboration of this kind for both parties.

Melbourne-based label Kookai will relaunch its swimwear line and introduce an exclusive range of branded sunglasses in a bid to boost its summer product offering.

Situated at the heart of the Sunshine Coast, the township of Mooloolaba draws crowds as a tourist hot spot. Tim Hamilton, principal of Pandanus Property Solutions, takes a look at trade in the area.