American swimwear firm Raj Manufacturing is ramping up its presence in the Australian market, with the launch of two new labels and a direct selling strategy for the Hurley brand.

From bright colours and tailored fits, to delicate floral prints and lace-embellishments, fashion agents are predicting a spring/summer season of bohemian glamour mixed with feminine detailing. At least that's what their order books are telling them.

Samoan and New Zealand-based label Mena has set its sights on the Australian market, with plans to launch its debut collection at the Fashion Exposed trade fair next month.

Over the last year, Ragtrader has reported on a wave of wholesalers turning their hand to retail.

The inner-city suburb of Surry Hills is know for its directional fashion boutiques and shopping strips.

Facing tough competition from big retailers in nearby Albury, a group of fashion stores in Wodonga have rallied together to attract consumers.

Melbourne has developed a reputation for its cutting-edge fashion boutiques.

Gill Lawrence has launched three labels during the last decade, all of which you can still find on retail racks all over Australia.

Lee Australia has revamped its efforts to capture the youth market, with the launch of a new website, festival sponsorship deals and a more creative approach to promoting the brand to its target market of 18 to 30-year-olds.

Effigy49 may have moved one step closer to widespread distribution in Australia's surfwear stores after having been picked up by Billabong-owned retailer, Surfection.

Queensland-headquartered online fashion retailers are utilising flood relief promotions and interstate sales to keep their stores in business.

The lead up to Valentine's Day is not the only time local lingerie labels reel in sales, as figures released by the Australian Trade Commission (ATC) today (February 14) have confirmed.

Specialty Fashion Group (SFG) has reported a fall in net profit for the six months to December 31, citing a "very difficult trading environment", heavy discounting and increased labour and fabric costs in China as the cause.

Armani Exchange may be turning 20-years-old in 2011 but the brand is keeping pace with the latest trends in fashion marketing.

Trend-driven womenswear label Stylestalker will release its autumn/winter 2011 collection through department store David Jones, following a string of international stockist coups.

Alex Perry has teamed up with David Jones to create an exclusive line of women’s executive apparel, due to hit the department store’s floors in July.