The 2011 Australian Interior Design Awards, staged last month, showcased some of the most innovative shop fits and merchandising trends created over the last 12 months. Here, Ragtrader spotlights a selection of the fashion stores that were up for an award in the Retail Design category.

SYDNEY: Rosemount Australian Fashion Week (RAFW) has fended off allegations that prominent designers were allowed to bend corporate sponsorship clauses for their spring/summer 2011 parades.

American lifestyle brand Nautica will add womenswear and denim to its Australian stable in July.

In part two of a series of regular columns, ARA Retail Institute Director Sue Anderson offers advice on how retailers can offer a superior customer service and thereby generate loyalty among today's finicky consumers. 

Webster Holdings has lodged a thorn in the operations of fashion designer Peter Morrissey, convincing officials that a series of trademark applications by his company should be refused.

Those managing Colorado Group's collapse have been granted an extra nine months to investigate the business, sell its assets and reach an optimal outcome for creditors.

Longchamp moves into Melbourne Luxe accessory label Longchamp will expand its retail operations in Australia, with the launch of its first stand-alone store in Melbourne this week.

NATIONAL: UK-based online shopping giant My-wardrobe.com is zoning in on the Australian market, with plans to tailor its offering to the local consumer and launch a targeted marketing campaign in June.

Ragtrader regularly investigates how key shopping strips in regional Australia are faring. Here, Daniela Aroche takes a look at trade in the coastal town of Byron Bay.

The Australian Government’s Productivity Commission is investigating the current structure, performance and efficiency of the retail sector. Here, Ragtrader provides a snapshot of the submissions made by industry stakeholders so far.

Opening a concept boutique on the trendy streets of Melbourne takes creative thinking. Daniela Aroche looks at Búl’s approach.

Bonds is set to stage another Facebook marketing campaign despite the conflict that erupted over its Bonds Baby Search earlier this year.

3D technology has been around for years but has recently been enjoying a revival in popularity. Erin O'Loughlin looks at how fashion brands are weaving 3D technologies into their in-store environments. ODE TO NO ONE: 3D prints included in its designs. 

Gold coast-based label Unit Clothing is on a mission to ramp up its womenswear offering and is altering its design direction ahead of a launch into the US market.

Ragtrader has published a series of articles on recent consumer law reforms. Here, Jo Daniels and Travis Payne argue it has given the watchdogs even greater power.

With supplier costs up and retail sales flat, Erin O'Loughlin queries what changes fashion labels can make along the supply chain to save precious dollars.