Hallenstein's "negative impact"

Hallenstein Glasson is the latest victim of the weak dollar.

The fashion retail group recorded a 21.1% drop in first half profit after tax to $6.81 million.

This is compared to $8.63 million during the same period last year.

CEO Graeme Popplewell said while group sales increased 1.4% to $112.39 million, margin pressures took their toll.

"While top line sales have been maintained in a very challenging environment, margin pressure due to a lower exchange rate has had a negative impact on profit."

The gross margins on sales dropped to 56.79% from 60.42% from the same period last year.

Unseasonably warm conditions have also impacted sales of autumn collections.

"On a more positive note our e-commerce business continues to outstrip growth in bricks and mortar stores, with sales for the first seven weeks of the season up 38 per cent," Popplewell said.

Hallenstein Glasson operates Hallenstein, Glassons and Storm.