The designers of I Love Ugly have been awarded the $10,000 DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship for 2012, establishing them as New Zealand’s top emerging fashion exporter.

Three of New Zealand’s top emerging fashion exporters are a step closer to winning the highly coveted DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship following an announcement yesterday (Thursday 8 November).

DHL, the world's leading express and logistics company, is delighted to confirm New Zealand’s top fashion and export industry leaders as judges for the DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship.

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[Rag-Pony.com] _ Last night, spring collections from local designers Juliette Hogan, Salasai and Alexandra Owen hit the runway at the inaugural 'Blue Sky' show presented by Showroom 22's Murray Bevan. Held at Australis House in the thriving Britomart precinct, the event saw everyone imaginable in the fashion industry attend; from media and stylists to bloggers, designers and PR ... more.

[FINZevents] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[FINZresources] _ Renowned fashion editor Marion Hume talks tough with fashion executives at an Inforum Group lunch in Sydney. "This is no time to be lazy. I think we must conclude that some well known names here will go to the wall. No shopper is going to be loyal because you've been around for so long and dressed their mother," she says.

Watch.

[FINZresources] _ Take a look at the innovations transforming e-commerce and reshaping shopping behaviour in the latest briefing from trendwatching.com. The consumer's online experience is no longer just about price, choice, convenience, reviews and ratings, but also status, the right product and a compelling experience.

[FINZevents] _ Take a look at upcoming FASHION INDUSTRY NEW ZEALAND events. More programmes and partners to be announced for 2012-13 as they're confirmed. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

[FINZevents] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[FINZbusiness] _ Take a sneak peek at some of the live results from the FINZ: Business of Fashion Survey. Complete the 10-minute online questionnaire before 6.00pm on April 5 and go into the draw to win one of five Ecostore bodycare packs. Only two days to go!

START THE SURVEY >>

[FINZbusiness] _ Ask anyone in the business of fashion and they'll tell you that there's no real information about the industry or where it's heading. But, FINZ aims to change that. Take this 10-minute survey and we'll deliver the facts, key trends and insights on the BUSINESS OF FASHION here in New Zealand, including APPAREL, ACCESSORIES, FOOTWEAR and TEXTILES.

START THE SURVEY >>

[FINZbusiness] _ This week, we spent two days in the boardroom at New Zealand Trade & Enterprise with select apparel and accessories companies discussing export to Australia as part of the Path to Market programme, facilitated by FINZ, which will see the group travel to Melbourne next month. As exporters we need to think strategically, look beyond fashion and understand the broader market opportunities. The premise behind the iPod? MP3 player as jewellery. It isn’t just about making frocks anymore.

[FINZevents] _ Twice named British Fashion Journalist of the Year, Hilary Alexander, fashion director of the Daily Telegraph, will venture to New Zealand next month as guest judge of the iD DUNEDIN INTERNATIONAL EMERGING DESIGNER AWARDS, which will see 28 finalists from seven countries battle it out for the supreme award on MAR 29.

[FINZevents] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[FINZevents] _ In addition to runway shows and a very chic culture programme, the L’OREAL MELBOURNE FASHION FESTIVAL boasts world-class business events that draw international speakers and attendees alike. This year’s LMFF Business Seminar, Power to the People, to be held on MAR 15, examines the way that the business of fashion has been turned on its head by technology empowered consumers who are fast becoming their own fashion authorities.

[FINZevents] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS.

[FINZevents] _ The NEW ZEALAND FASHION FESTIVAL kicks-off tomorrow at 1.00pm with a fashion flash mob in Auckland’s Aotea Square. The official rehearsal was last night, but there’s still time for you to learn the moves and throw on your most fashionable threads. Take a look at what else is happening on the NZFF SCHEDULE from FEB 24 to MAR 04.

[FINZevents] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS.

[FINZevents] _ Designed to fast-track market entry to Australia, the Path to Market programme combines export services from New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE) and expertise from the private sector. Selected companies will participate in a intensive two-day exporter workshop and dragons' den in Auckland, and an offshore market visit that incorporates the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival (LMFF).

[FINZevents] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[FINZevents] _ Last week, ragtraders gathered at Racket Bar in Auckland for seasonal Charles Parsons: FINZ Social Drinks; a unique opportunity for our members and mutual friends to mix and mingle. Thanks Charles Parsons! And, thanks to everyone who attended! Take a look at the photos.

[FINZevents] presented in associated with CHARLES PARSONS

[FINZevents] _ Te Papa consistently rolls out great apparel and textile exhibitions, the latest being Unveiled, 200 years of wedding fashion from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London; featuring lavish gowns from some of the biggest names in the business, Alber Elbaz for Lanvin, Christian Lacroix and Vivienne Westwood, as well as special commissioned pieces by New Zealand designers Jane Yeh, Lindah Lepou and WORLD.

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] _ Happy New Year! Join us for 'back to work' drinks on FEB 01 at Racket Bar, a little slice of Havana in the heart of Auckland City. Each season, Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) and Charles Parsons host an informal industry networking event, providing a unique opportunity for our members and mutual friends to mix and mingle.

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS.

[FEATURE] _ By Lisa Lloyd-Taylor | Academic research is central to teaching at tertiary level and this is equally true in fashion. Whilst drawing, designing, pattern-cutting, construction and written subjects, such as history and theory and well recognised within the curriculum, these must now be supplemented and supported by the professional knowledge gained via research.

[EVENTS] _ Join us on DEC 05 for the final conversation in the 2011 DHL Express Apparel Export Series - Retail: The Changing Climate and Landscape - an intimate and insightful panel discussion featuring real-time dialogue and debate from industry insiders on everything from fashion economics and fundamental changes in consumer behaviour, to digital strategies and the meteoric rise of global online retail.

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] _ NOV 22 | The second conversation in the 2011 DHL Express Apparel Export Series. An intelligent, informative, fast-paced panel discussion on the future of fashion export, featuring real-time dialogue and debate from industry insiders who are taking New Zealand to the world ... Nick Clegg (Federation), Trelise Cooper (Trelise Cooper), Pieter Stewart (New Zealand Fashion Week), Michelle Templer (New Zealand Trade & Enterprise) and Phil Corcoran (DHL Express).

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] _ Today we hosted PR & Media: Building Your Brand in Export Markets, the first panel discussion in the 2011 DHL Express Apparel Export Series. The conversation between Patty Huntington, Dan Gosling, Murray Bevan and Rae Begley, which took place at New Zealand Trade & Enterprise in Auckland, was truly inspired.

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

Fashion Industry New Zealand [FINZ] bids farewell to designer Caroline Moore, who recently passed away. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

[DHL EXPRESS FASHION EXPORT SCHOLARSHIP] _ Who's eligible to enter the 2011 DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship? Want to find out? Take a look at the entry criteria along with the rules and regulations in closer detail.

[DHL EXPRESS FASHION EXPORT SCHOLARSHIP] _ The judging panel for the 2010 DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship included: leading New Zealand fashion designer, Kate Sylvester; Erica Crawford, seasoned exporter and co-founder of Kim Crawford Wines; DHL Express strategic account manager, Linda Turner; and FINZ executive officer, Mapihi Opai.

[DHL EXPRESS FASHION EXPORT SCHOLARSHIP] _ Wellington-based fashion brand Twenty-Seven Names has been named the winner of the 2010 DHL Express Fashion Export Scholarship. "We are so happy to have been awarded the scholarship and are very excited to start working with DHL Express to grow our brand further internationally. We're particulary pleased about the mentoring we will receive and can't wait to see where it takes us," says Anjali Stewart, co-founder of Twenty-Seven Names.

[FINZ POLL] _ Has the Rugby World Cup had an impact on fashion and clothing retail sales in New Zealand?

[EVENTS] _ Showcasing New Zealand creativity and culture through fashion, film, music and technology, Style Pasifika: Best of Pasifika New Zealand raises the bar for RWC 2011; unveiling inspirational group collections by New Zealand and international designers, as well as a sumptuous pre-show dining experience by renowned Kiwi chefs Martin Bosley and Michael Meredith.

[EVENTS] in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] _ Six free events showcasing the best of New Zealand fashion will be held at The Cloud in Auckland, as part of the REAL NZ Festival, from October 19 -20. Produced by New Zealand Fashion Week, the shows feature more than 50 designers and the country’s longest runway.

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] - Auckland fashion and art gallery House of Hedone, which stocks New Zealand labels, including Brady, Maaike, Mild Red, NeverBlack and Nyne, is hosting a preview of its latest exhibition, A Collaboration of Works by Karl Andrews and Abby Wendy, from 6.00pm to 8.00pm on Friday, 23 September – [email: highst@houseofhedone.co.nz].

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[TOP HEADLINES] - They have always been linked together, but the fashion world is increasingly looking to the art world for inspiration ... Gow Langsford's Anna Jackson believes that the enduring relationship between the two worlds is due in part to their similarities. "Although there are obvious differences, they are in many ways the same thing; both subject to and creators of trends, style and taste, and both ultimately reflections or indicators of the culture and time in which they are created." ... [full story @NZ Herald].

[EVENTS] - Ken Watson, managing director of Industry Forum Services, London, U.K, will lead a half-day workshop in Auckland on Friday, 30 September; providing valuable insights into international fashion supply chains, including trade information and key developments in the global market over the next 12 months. ONLY 25 SPACES LEFT!

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] - New Zealanders never need an excuse to wear black, especially with the Rugby World Cup underway. But, the New Zealand Fashion Museum is raising the stakes with its Best in Black competition, which aims to find the best dressed man and woman in black. Judges will be looking for stylish outfits that epitomise New Zealand fashion.

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[EVENTS] - A strong contingent of New Zealand designer brands will show in Sydney next week at The Wearer’s Right [TWR]; a new biannual fashion trade event ‘with substance and personality for labels of the same kind’, to be held at the Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park from September 19-20. The line-up includes: Chaos & Harmony, Federation, Huffer, Kathryn Wilson, Nom*D, Pointer and Stolen Girlfriends Club.

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[TOP HEADLINES] – Beer and coffee are flowing in downtown Auckland as the Rugby World Cup boosts the hospitality sector, but other industries say they're still waiting to reap benefits. A week into the tournament, the retail sector is yet to register even a flicker of an upturn in sales. Other industries, such as taxi companies, say business is even worse than usual ... [full story @NZ Herald].

[FEATURE] - By Dan Gosling - Will the Rugby World Cup be our saving grace in 2011? Will international visitors put down some serious money on fashion? Nothing is certain, but we have to stand up and find a way to be noticed. We have to pull these people into our retail stores and provide them with the best service and products available.

[BUSINESS NEWS] - Watch Zac de Silva, director of Business Changing and the former head of Barkers menswear, talking about the impact that the Rugby World Cup will have on New Zealand’s retail sector. Tips on how to achieve better sales and profitability, as well as ways of appraising your team and appealing to international guests - [video].

[BUSINESS NEWS] - In a country where rugby and rural heroes are considered to be the measure of manliness, a new study from Otago University, Retailing Masculinity, reveals that grooming products have become widely accepted by young New Zealand men. “New Zealand males still hold onto the idea of masculinity in an agricultural or sporting mould; our focus groups talked about the All Blacks being male role models."

[TOP HEADLINES] - A study by laundry detergent manufacturer Persil, which surveyed around 500 New Zealand women, revealed that 69 percent wear black five to seven times a week, 86 percent wear black more than any other colour and 80 percent believe black flatters their figures ... [full story @NZ Herald].

[EVENTS] - Last week, the New Zealand Fashion Museum launched its second major exhibition, Black in Fashion, which examines how and why the colour has become interwoven with our cultural identity over the past century. Timed to coincide with the Rugby World Cup, the exhibition will run as part of the REAL New Zealand Festival, from September 9 to October 24, in Auckland.

[EVENTS] presented in association with CHARLES PARSONS

[FASHION NEWS] - WORLD unveiled the fruits of its latest collaboration on the runway at New Zealand Fashion Week. While the clothes won’t be available for another six months, the footwear that featured in the show, a capsule collection produced under the diffusion brand WORLD Made Me Do It, was rolled out by Number One Shoes the very next day.

Fashion Industry New Zealand [FINZ]

Now in its sixth year, NZFWeekend will open its doors to the public from September 2-3 at Auckland’s new Viaduct Events Centre. Catch Mel Parsons, Iva Lamkum, Ivy Lies, Young Lyre and People of Paris playing in the Cutting Room on the Friday night or bag yourself a bargain at the hugely popular Sunday Star Times Designer Garage Sale.

Fashion Industry New Zealand [FINZ]

Not sure who’s showing at NZFW this year? Deryn Schmidt, Egoist, Emma Manhart, Katie-Maree Cole and Two Wonders will make their debut in the New Generation show. And, New Zealand merino will be showcased by Life of Riley, Miranda Brown, Starfish, Taylor and Untouched World. Newcomer Ingrid Starnes will open the week, while Kathryn Wilson delivers the grand finale. Take a look at the NZFW Designer List.

Fashion Industry New Zealand [FINZ]

MARK THIS DATE IN YOUR DIARY! ... Ken Watson, managing director of Industry Forum Services [U.K] will lead an intensive half-day workshop in Auckland on Friday, 30 September; providing valuable insights into complex international fashion supply chains. IFS has worked with international blue chip fashion and apparel companies, including: Adidas, Arcadia Group [Topshop], ASDA, Burberry, Canterbury, Gap, H&M, House of Fraser, Levi Strauss, Marks & Spencer, New Look, Nike, Pringle of Scotland, Selfridges, Tesco and Woolworths.

Fashion Industry New Zealand [FINZ]

FINZ recruits and manages a 20-strong team of minders for international VIP buyers. Once again, we’ve employed the services of fashion design majors from Auckland’s Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design. Our volunteers will be acting as local guides and personal assistants. And, they’ll experience the business of fashion from a very unique perspective; over the shoulder of an international buyer.

Fashion Industry New Zealand [FINZ]

The FINZ DESK at New Zealand Fashion Week will be furnished by IMO, which designs and manufactures all of its products right here in New Zealand; a great fit for the event. And, our activities will also be supported by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development [ATEED]. So, a big ‘thank you’ to all of our partners: IMO, ATEED, Purform and, of course, NZFW.

Fashion Industry New Zealand [FINZ]

As a partner of New Zealand Fashion Week, FINZ will be based onsite during the event; hosting VIP buyers and providing support for participating designers. Visit us at the FINZ DESK on the ground floor of the NZFW venue or follow FINZ on facebook and twitter. We’ll keep you posted on everything that happens, as it happens.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Trelise Cooper Pulls Out of Kids' Fashion - (NZ Herald)

New Zealand fashion brand Trelise Cooper is stopping production of its girls' clothing range and closing its kids' boutique in Auckland's trendy Nuffield Street, The company says it plans to focus on more profitable parts of the business. "We launched a new womenswear brand last month in the Australian market with great success and are putting our focus and resources into this brand instead."

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Online Now Gospel at Premier - (Herald Sun)

Premier Investments is embracing the online retailing "religion" in a bid to hold on to lucrative younger shoppers as the rest of the consumer market trims credit card spending. The retail powerhouse's chain stores - including Just Jeans, Dotti and Portmans - are to increase their online offerings over the next three years to pull Premier through the worst retail downturn in two decades.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Sustainable fashion brand Starfish is giving customers the opportunity to trade in their pre-loved garments for a 50 percent discount off the full retail price of the Autumn/Winter-2011 collection, Seven Sisters, for 10 days in the month of July. All second-hand Starfish and Laurie Foon garments, in good condition and freshly laundered, can be exchanged at Starfish stores in Auckland and Wellington from July 7-17.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Entries are now open for the 2011 Westpac Young Fashion Designer Competition. Budding designers are asked to submit a portfolio of three looks along with a brief biography. The judging panel will select 10 semi-finalists who will be put to a public vote. And the remaining three finalists will be flown to Auckland, where their work will appear in the Westpac Red Collection at New Zealand Fashion Week.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Global innovators in fashion design will visit New Zealand in mid-July. British fashion designer and filmmaker, Julian Roberts, the inventor of a revolutionary garment construction method called Subtraction Cutting, and Timo Rassanen, a world leader in Zero Waste Design from New York's Parsons: The New School for Design, will take part in The Cutting Circle, an international research initiative that explores new approaches to fashion design.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Huffer and Absolut Limited-Edition Collaboration – (Lucire)
Spanning the last 30 years, international premium vodka Absolut has collaborated with a list of the worlds’ top designers, including Stella McCartney and Tom Ford. Now, it’s New Zealand’s turn to show off its creative talent with the launch of Absolut NZ Limited Edition, an amalgamation with iconic Kiwi fashion brand Huffer.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Galliano Blames Slurs on Triple Addiction – (NZ Herald)
Former Dior Designer, John Galliano, has testified that he remembers nothing about allegedly making anti-Semitic slurs at a Paris café due to his “triple addiction” to alcohol, barbiturates and sleeping pills. The 50-year old is charged with “public insults based on origin, religious affiliation, race or ethnicity” and could face up to six months in prison and €22,500 in fines.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

NYDJ (Not Your Daughter’s Jeans) is supporting women with breast cancer through its Hope You Wear It Well campaign, which will see NZ$2 donated to the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation for every pair of jeans tried-on instore at participating stockists nationwide from June 15-31. A further contribution of NZ$3 will be made for every pair purchased and the proud new owners will go into a draw to win a trip for two to Queenstown staying at the luxurious Heritage Hotel.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Auckland-based fashion label Sherie Muijs has launched an online store offering select pieces from the Autumn/Winter-2011 collection, Building Blocks, which features some fantastic designer rainwear. The move follows the temporary closure of one of the brand’s major stockists Victoria Black, which is working towards relocation in the wake of the February earthquake. As a gesture of goodwill, Sherie Muijs will donate NZ$20 from every online purchase to the Christchurch retailer.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Designer Turns Warrior Woman – (Dominion Post)
‘Protect yourself and others’ is the message behind Mild Red’s Autumn/Winter 2011 collection Black Knight. In the wake of the Christchurch earthquake, designer Donna Tulloch looked to medieval heroines for inspiration; protectors and warrior women.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Tokyo Fashion: After the Quake – (Lucire)
Japanese culture shows that if one part of the nation suffers, the rest is supposed to suffer and feel pain by not consuming any extras and luxury goods; an activity referred to as jishuku in Japanese … But, the show must go on. YUKA MURAI looks at three designers who defied the odds and showed Autumn/Winter 2011-12 collections.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) has a few changes in store for 2011. This year, the country’s premier fashion event is being rolled out earlier to avoid a clash with the Rugby World Cup (RWC). And it also has a brand new venue, the soon to be completed Viaduct Events Centre on Halsey Street in Auckland.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The third annual Miromoda Fashion Design Awards, an initiative aimed at raising the benchmark of indigenous fashion and promoting the wares of Maori designers, was held at Massey University in Wellington earlier this month. The awards programme, which takes its name from ‘miro’ the Maori term for twining muka fibres in traditional weaving and ‘moda’ the Italian word for fashion, will see the winners take to the runway at New Zealand Fashion Week.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Musing on the Pace of Fashion – (Business of Fashion)
The third edition of Miu Miu’s Musing salons, which centred on The Pace of Fashion, enabled industry leaders from across the fashion spectrum to sit back and try to make sense of an industry undergoing rapid disruption and transformation.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Sustained Rebound in Retail Spending – (The Australian)
Retail sales are getting stronger and may never have been as weak as the official figures showed. A 1.1 percent jump in retail sales in April was the best result since late-2009, while the Australian Bureau of Statistics has also revised higher sales performances in February and March.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Australia’s Economy Contracts Most in 20 Years – (New York Times)
The Australian economy shrank 1.2 percent in the first quarter from the previous quarter, suffering its biggest contraction in 20 years, after extensive flooding hit coal exports. But a mining boom is expected to help growth bounce back quickly this year.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Cost-Cutting is Rampant in Fashion – (Bloomberg)
Retailers realise that they don’t have much pricing power with budget-conscious consumers these days. That’s why apparel makers are turning to ‘deconstruction’ experts like Peter Brown, who show clients how to tear garments apart and put them back together with cheaper and fewer materials.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Plans to make Auckland a global events destination are being backed by Auckland Council's Strategy and Finance Committee. The Major Events Strategy was provided by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) on Mayor Len Brown’s request as part of his ‘100 projects’ initiative.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Auckland businesses can seek advice and access to funding focused on growth thanks to a national and local government partnership. New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and the Ministry of Research, Science and Innovation (MSI) have appointed Auckland Council organisation Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Ltd (ATEED) to their network of 14 regional business partners, which work to support business growth and innovation.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The controversial Copyright (Infringing File Sharing) Amendment Bill has passed its third reading, with the majority of its provisions to come into effect on 1 September 2011. Dealing with copyright infringement over the internet, it has implications for all New Zealanders, but particularly those involved in sharing/downloading music or movies without a copyright owner's authorisation.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

YSL Rebuttal in Louboutin ‘Red Soles’ Lawsuit – (Huffington Post)
In April, Christian Louboutin, one of the world’s most iconic shoemakers, filed a lawsuit against fashion house Yves Saint Laurent for manufacturing shoes with Louboutin-style red soles. The designer trademarked his red varnished heels in 2008 and is seeking US$1 million in damages (which we calculated to be the equivalent of 250 pairs of Louboutin shoes).

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The Heart of Green Awards recognise innovation and action that inspires green thinking among mainstream America. Now in its third year, the programme, managed by The Daily Green, featured a People’s Choice section for the first time, attracting more than 20,000 votes across 18 award categories, including fashion, beauty, cities and celebrities.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

New Website lets you Buy and Sell Organic Cotton – (Ecouterre)
Textile Exchange has launched Farm Hub, a new website for folks who are interested in organic cotton and the role it plays in global sustainability. By providing a one-stop shop for producers, buyers and wearers of organic cotton, the non-profit aims to facilitate collaboration and communication among these groups.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

New Zealand fashion designer Kate Sylvester was awarded an honorary doctorate in fine arts from Massey University in a graduate ceremony, which included a citation by Zambesi co-founder Neville Findlay. In her acceptance speech, Sylvester recounted a secondary school careers evening where her declaration that she wanted to be a fashion designer was met with the comment: “No such job exists in New Zealand”.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Following the February earthquake, the fine arts showcase at the Design & Arts College of New Zealand was postponed, with many third-year students having to start their work from scratch. But preparations are now in full-swing for the graduate exhibition Shift, to be held on June 15, which alludes to the changes that people in Christchurch are going through.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

How to Sell Luxury to the Chinese – (Forbes)
Lane Crawford, Hong Kong and China’s version of Bergdorf Goodman, has been in the fashion and retail business for 160 years. Now, more than ever, the spotlight is on this luxury emporium, because it serves as a litmus test for what sells and what doesn’t in the fastest growing luxury market in the world.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The 2011 New Zealand International Business Awards recognise the brave, the innovative and the successful; those companies that have helped grow and transform the New Zealand economy with exceptional export success in international markets. However, finding the capital or investment to grow a global business is a constant challenge, which is why the supreme winner will be furnished with NZ$100,000.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

DHL, official logistics partner of Rugby World Cup 2011, has appointed New Zealand sporting legend Sean Fitzpatrick as its global rugby ambassador. The former All Blacks captain, widely considered one of the best Rugby Union players of all time, will participate in a series of events across Europe, South Africa and the Asia Pacific region.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Three months on from the Christchurch earthquake, Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) revisits clothing retailers in the Red Zone as they attempt to get their businesses back on track. MAPIHI OPAI reports on the key issues and future prospects for fashion as the city works towards reopening a section of the CBD.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Industry Urged to Smarten Up – (The Australian)
Fashion Industry experts warn that designers need to lift their game if they want to remain in business for next year’s Australian Fashion Week. Vogue editor, Kristie Clements, said the Australian fashion industry was “under threat” and many middle-market designers would not survive the year.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Kate Sylvester presented her Spring/Summer 2011-12 collection, Into the Light, in Sydney last week; delivering the closing show on day-two at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week. The New Zealand designer told Carolyn Enting at the Dominion Post that she was inspired by “speedway and moths”.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Presented by CoLab in association with Film Auckland, Envisage 6 examines new developments and opportunities in designing for virtual worlds. Featuring guest speakers - Ngila Dickson (costume designer), Melanie Langlotz (Images & Sound) and Stephen Knightly (InGame).

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Around 200 people descended upon Golden Dawn in Ponsonby for the A/W-2011 edition of our biannual Charles Parsons: FINZ Social Drinks. Chilled-out and rugged-up, we ventured outdoors to say 'goodbye to summer'. Take a look at the social pics from SNAPSTAR.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Entries for the 2011 Miromoda Fashion Design Award close this Friday. Now in its third year, the competition aims to advance and promote the work of fashion designers who identify as Maori.

NB: The deadline for entries has been extended to May 9.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Salasai A/W-2011 _ Sacrificial Grace _ takes inspiration from religious followers and cults; the pull of things angelic and dark. "I think I was more compelled by the peaceful sects, like the Amish, Quakers and Puritans, and how modestly they dress; how serene and untouched by the world they are," says designer, Kirsha Witcher.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

On March 21, FINZ celebrated the opening of a public exhibition showcasing select works from the three finalists of the inaugural James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award; Cybele, Federation and Moochi. Sending Messages, curated by Lisa-Lloyd-Taylor and Kim Fraser, ran during the New Zealand Fashion Festival at Sale St in Auckland, from March 22-27.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Last month, Stolen Girlfriends Club struck gold with an inimitable preview of its spring/summer-2011 collection, Untitled, at one of Auckland’s most unlikely venues. Doing away with the customary runway, seating and VIP guest list; 20 models stormed the aisles of Victoria Park New World amid a bewildered audience of supermarket shoppers, who were inadvertently caught-up in the action.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

One month on from the Christchurch earthquake, Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) takes stock of clothing businesses in the South Island's main centre, as well as the flow-on effect for other ragtraders. VICKI MATIAS reports on the challenges and outlook for fashion in Canterbury ...

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

New Zealand streetwear brand FEDERATION has been named the winner of the inaugural James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award ahead of two other distinguished finalists – CYBELE and MOOCHI. The winner was announced last night at the opening of a public exhibition showcasing the three finalists’ work – Fashion Communication Design: Sending Messages – which will run during the New Zealand Fashion Festival at Sale St in Auckland, from March 22-27.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Three diverse New Zealand fashion brands have been named as the finalists of the inaugural James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award ... Federation, Moochi and Cybele.

“Our finalists represent three distinct fashion tribes with their own unique culture and subtle cues. They’re talking about different things to different people. But, in each case, the brand design, messages and media reach and resonate with the target audience, which is the main objective of communication design," says FINZ executive officer, Mapihi Opai.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The New Zealand Fashion Festival, a week-long celebration of all things fashion-related, will take Auckland by storm from March 21-27. Headlined by four public Fashion Collections shows featuring the country's top designers, the official schedule includes the VIDCOM Business Breakfast, M.A.C Beauty Seminar and ever-popular Designer Garage Sale.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The Little Black Cocktail Party offers a unique opportunity to hear from some of New Zealand's leading fashion designers and commentators on why black features so strongly on our local fashion landscape. These exclusive soirees act as a precursor to the upcoming Black in Fashion exhibition and will help raise funds for the non-profit New Zealand Fashion Museum.

It’s been fascinating to follow the debate across the ditch about whether GST should be added to international online purchases. And, it’s a worthwhile discussion to have, even though Aussie retailers have thrown in the towel early. It wasn’t so long ago that ragtraders were arguing that fashion sales wouldn’t take-off online; that the need to handle garments and find the correct fit would win the day. But, how wrong they were.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

It may have started out as a quirky idea, but the ‘High St Lucky Christmas Shop’ has proven to be a huge success. An initiative of the High St Guild, a group of likeminded retailers and businesses in the district, the enchanted forest themed pop-up store sold lucky-dip gifts, ranging in price from NZ$20 to $300, in the lead-up to Christmas.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Pack Turn Out in Support of Dior - (Reuters)
The fashion elite turned out in support of couture house Christian Dior for its catwalk show in Paris on Friday three days after it fired star designer John Galliano over anti-Semitic comments. Influential U.S. Vogue Editor Anna Wintour, department store buyers, supermodels, celebrities, wealthy aristocrats and the children of the man who founded the LVMH luxury group which owns the Dior label gave the collection's team (sans Galliano) a standing ovation.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Could Polyester be the Next Eco-Friendly Fabric? - (Ecouterre)
While polyester does not biodegrade, at the end of its use phase it can actually be recycled to near-virgin or virgin-like quality (something which cannot be said of natural fibers). Issey Miyake’s recent collaboration with the Japanese chemical company Teijin, which developed specialized equipment to revert used polyester back to its original source material of dimethyl terephthalate, demonstrates just how beautiful recycled polyester can be.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Clothes Makers Join to Set ‘Green Score’ - (NY Times)
Calling itself the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, the group intends to develop a comprehensive database of the environmental impact of every manufacturer, component and process in apparel production, with the aim of using that information to eventually give every garment a sustainability score.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Nike’s Green Design Recycles 82 Million Plastic Bottles - (Reuters)
Inspired by the Creative Commons, Nike in 2009 launched the GreenXchange, a place where companies can share intellectual property, processes and ideas, and brainstorm greener solutions to shared challenges.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Galliano Wins Cyber-Squatting Case - (Reuters)
British designer John Galliano, who was sacked by fashion house Christian Dior for his alleged anti-Semitic behaviour, won a cyber-squatting case on Wednesday. A U.N-appointed arbitrator ruled Galliano had trademark rights to his internationally recognised name and ordered the disputed Internet domain name galliano.fr transferred to him within 10 days.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Mayor Bloomberg and Fashion Industry Leaders Call for Immigration Reforms - (International Business Times)
New York City mayor, Michael Bloomberg, has joined forces with some of the biggest names in the fashion industry to implement immigration reforms and promote easier visa procedure for international workers. Being the hub of the fashion industry, New York has over 165,000 undocumented immigrants, accounting for 5.5 percent of the city’s workforce and 31 percent of its manufacturing jobs.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

New Zealand Prime Minister, John Key, has announced the launch of the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal; a global fundraiser for the recovery effort in the Canterbury region. “It’s vital that we reach as many people throughout the world who want to help. This isn’t just New Zealand’s tragedy; the February 22 earthquake affected countless people internationally,” says Key.

It's important to know what people are saying about your business and brand online. A great tool that you should get into the habit of using is Google Alerts. By subscribing to Google Alerts, you'll receive an email as soon as your search phrase (such as your company name or registered trade marks) enters Google's index.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

For four days, fashion was high on the agenda in the German capital. As the official logistics partner of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin, DHL was particularly delighted with its success. Trade visitors and fashionistas flooded the event marquee at Bebelplatz to see the presentations of the designers; an exciting programme, rich in contrasts, which captivated and enthused guests right from the start.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) will host an incisive public lecture that examines Auckland's creative industries and designer fashion sector, to be held at AUT on Tuesday, 8 March, 2011. The free lecture will include presentations from Linden Tierney, sector specialist creative industries at Auckland Tourism, Events & Economic Development (ATEED), and FINZ chairman, Paul Blomfield, who has more than 20 years experience as a consultant to the fashion, clothing, textile and creative industries in New Zealand.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Early All Blacks Jerseys Recreated in RWC Year - (Massey University)
Tina Downes, a fashion design tutor at Wellington’s Massey University, has painstakingly recreated replicas of the rugby jerseys worn by three of the earliest All Blacks teams, including the ‘Originals’ and the ‘Invincibles’. The garments have been presented to the New Zealand Rugby Museum in Palmerston North.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Sportsgirl’s Student Collaboration Drives Creativity - (Textiles Source)
For the third year, Sportsgirl is sponsoring the National Graduate Showcase, which will see 12 finalists parade their designs before a crowd of 1,500 people at the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival and be given the opportunity to take up internships at the Sportsgirl HQ.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Karl Clausen has been appointed general manager at Crane Brothers. The Kiwi ex-pat, who recently returned from London, will assume the day-to-day management of the New Zealand designer menswear brand and work with founder, Murray Crane, to grow the business.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Dan Buckley, co-founder of Kiwi streetwear brand Huffer, has announced he is stepping down from the business to “move on to new challenges”, leaving Steve Dunstan in sole charge. Buckley, a fashion design graduate, and Dunstan, who has a background in retail, launched the street, skate and snowboarding-inspired clothing label in 1997.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Hallenstein Glasson chief executive, Stephen Timms, has resigned from the post after little more than a year, having indicated that he wishes to return to Australia for family reasons. He will be replaced by Hallenstein Glasson’s long-serving finance director, Graeme Popplewell, who has been managing director of the Hallensteins menswear chain since June 2010.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Director of Saks, Julian Reynolds, has announced his imminent retirement and the closure of Saks’ landmark retail premises on Broadway in Newmarket. A high profile figure in New Zealand’s fashion industry, Reynolds launched Saks in 1979; the first store in the southern hemisphere to sell Hugo Boss and introduce discerning Kiwi consumers to international luxury brands, such as Armani, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana and Brioni.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The Textile & Design Laboratory at AUT will host Get Knitted; a one-day symposium dedicated to all facets of knitwear on April 15 in Auckland. Keynote speaker, Sandy Black, Professor of Fashion and Textile Design and Technology at the London College of Fashion, has gained international recognition for her knitwear design, research and various published works, including Eco Chic: The Fashion Paradox and Knitwear in Fashion.

Music in Parks has become the epitome of summer; a mammoth series of free events from January to March packed full of Kiwi talent in Auckland’s open spaces. And there's still plenty to enjoy!

When we host Rugby World Cup 2011, New Zealand will be open for business on-and-off the field. The NZ 2011 Business Club is your chance to meet passionate local business people and find out about business and investment opportunities in New Zealand. Sign-up today.

To help New Zealand prepare for one of the largest sporting events in the world, temporary legislation has been introduced to assist with the smooth running of the Rugby World Cup 2011. A range of consents, licences and regulatory approvals are needed to enable the set-up of temporary activities and facilities that are required for Rugby World Cup (RWC).

James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award / 2011

Calling all New Zealand fashion designers and brands. Applications are now open for the inaugural James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award. Developed in collaboration between Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) and James & Wells Intellectual Property, the award celebrates creativity and excellence in fashion-specific communication design; the architecture of New Zealand fashion brands and the communication of brand messages across a variety of media, which are designed to inspire and stimulate consumer audiences.

James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award / 2011

The James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award will culminate in a public exhibition of the finalists' work during the New Zealand Fashion Festival. Curated by Lisa Lloyd-Taylor and Kim Fraser, Fashion Communication Design will examine the principles of this thoroughly modern discipline in its most fashionable and Kiwi-centric form; showcasing the strategic thinking, creative talent and collaboration behind three New Zealand fashion brands.

James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award / 2011

Applications for the inaugural James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award will be reviewed by an expert panel of judges that includes Mike Hutcheson, co-founder of Colenso and former managing director of Saatchi & Saatchi.

Hutcheson now heads Lighthouse Ideas, an incubator for creativity and innovation, and Image Centre Holdings, a ditigal marketing, publishing and print group. He is also a published author and regular columinist for The Independent and Unlimited.

James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award / 2011

Take a look at the rules and regulations for the inaugural James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award. Applicants are deemed to have accepted these rules and regulations, and agree to be bound to them upon applying for the award. 

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Miss Wilson Steps into Australian Market - (Ragtrader)
New Zealand-based footwear label, Kathryn Wilson, has launched a diffusion line. The Miss Wilson collection will be available in Australia at the end of February and sold exclusively through 12 Platypus stores in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. The range will retail at a slightly lower price point than the established Kathryn Wilson line in a bid to attract a younger demographic.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

New Zealand radio and television host, Wallace Chapman, has combined his passion for photography, urban landscapes and people watching in a new website, Street and City Photos, which documents street-style in Auckland and Wellington.

A long-time patron of public transport, the political commentator says the concept stems from hours spent gazing at the canvas of the street and faces of the city.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The New Zealand-Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership (CEP) entered into force on January 1, 2011. For clothing (chapters 61 and 62), the Product Specific Rules (PSR) are identical to those in the NZ-China FTA, with the exception that they allow Hong Kong producers to undertake part-processing in China.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

DIY Approach Innovative, But Limiting – (NZTE)
A new report commissioned by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise looks at why New Zealand can be so innovative, but enjoys only mediocre economic performance. Kiwi cultural traits that inhibit international business include the belief that we can and should do it all ourselves, as well as the fact that we rate leisure pursuits above wealth accumulation.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Sustainable ‘Conspiracy’ at Berlin Fashion Week – (Ecouterre)
THEKEY.TO is barely two years old, but already it's becoming one of Berlin Fashion Week's hottest tickets. Hosted by the German capital, home to a motley crew of artists, punks, and musicians, THEKEY.TO describes itself as the world's first international event for green fashion.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

London’s Forum for the Future, a non-profit organisation that promotes sustainable development, has produced the Fashion Futures 2025 report; four vivid scenarios that examine how climate change, resource shortages, population growth and other factors will shape both the fashion industry and the world we live in over the next 15 years.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

H&M Launches Conscious Collection – (Just-Style)
Fashion retailer H&M is hoping to ramp up its eco-friendly credentials with a new Conscious Collection made from greener materials such as organic cotton and linen, Tencel and recycled polyester.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Are debtors holding back your business or putting it at risk? Take a look at this presentation from our friends at WHK, which has some great tips on how to manage your debtors, as well as info on the potential impact of bad debts and discounting.

Click here to download: WHK - Managing Your Debtors.pdf

With 62 percent of New Zealand business owners now aged 50-and-over, and 45 percent looking to sell in the near future, there's a huge need for effective succession planning. But, only 11 percent have a strategy for exiting their businesses.

"Basically, if you don't get it right, you don't have the level of security in retirement that you would hope for. Without effective planning, you won't realise the real value of the business."

A great summer in New Zealand has seen Havaianas footwear in hot demand. Unfortunately for the owner of the HAVAIANAS trade mark, it has not been so lucky in protecting its brand. Sao Paulo Alpargatas (SPA) launched the HAVAIANAS brand in 1941, and started importing Havaianas into New Zealand in 2004.

By the end of 2009, there were an estimated 192,000,000 registered domain names. If you're the registrant of one of these, you may think that you own your domain name. But, that's not the case. As the body responsible for the global administration of domain names, ICANN is effectively the 'owner' of all domain names.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Our friends at DHL have just expanded their official partnership with global events organiser IMG to include Fashion Week in Paris, Zurich and Tokyo. Now entering its fourth year, the alliance will see DHL providing logistics services to 23 IMG Fashion Week and Fashion Day events in 10 countries on four continents.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Urbis Designday is back on March 19, with a design circuit that brings together leading interior showrooms and the talents of top designers from fashion, architecture, advertising and the fine arts. The result is an amazing day out; viewing some truly unique partnerships and inspiring installations around Auckland City. Previous collaborations include Zambesi's decadent spa experience with Kohler.

Auckland Mayor, Len Brown, has commissioned a study on proposed theatre developments, including the potential refurbishment of the St James. Brown says the study will identify the need and demand for professional performing arts venues in Auckland, and help guide the Auckland Council's investment in this area over the next 10-15 years.

Applications are now open for the 2011 Auckland Regional Parks Artist in Residence. This residency provides a selected artist with a home in a regional park and space to work for up to eight weeks. Accommodation is free and a weekly allowance is paid to support the artist in creating new works inspired by park living.

To improve ongoing public input into consultations and planning, Auckland Council has established an email-based People's Panel or e-panel. The initiative provides an opportunity for Aucklanders to have their say on a range of issues and act as a sounding-board for future decisions and policies.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Miss Lingerie Model, the annual nationwide search for New Zealand's goddess of underthings, is opening its doors to up-and-coming designers. The challenge is to create a unique and innovative lingerie set, with an emphasis on construction, stage impact and overall design. Whoever takes the title of Miss Lingerie Model Emerging Designer will be invited to create a 15-piece collection, which will be unveiled in the Miss Lingerie Model runway finale in July.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is set to host Australia’s first menswear exhibition from March 11 to November 27. Manstyle will showcase more than 80 outfits and artworks, exploring influential ideas in men’s fashion over the past three centuries.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Mark Schiller, CEO of Sweden’s ACNE Studios, and Jefferson Hack, co-founder of Britain’s iconic Dazed & Confused, will speak at the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival (LMFF) Business Seminar on March 17.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Premiere, a new boutique tradeshow for high-end fashion, will be launched as a free-standing event alongside Fashion Exposed at the Sydney Exhibition Centre from March 6-8, 2011. Touted as an exclusive platform, organisers are promising luxe branding, an intimate environment and cutting-edge design from more than 80 contemporary Australian and international fashion labels.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The Apparel & Textile Industry Training Organisation (ATITO) is calling for applications for its annual scholarship, which recognises the achievements of qualified tradespeople in New Zealand’s apparel, textile and laundry industry. The NZ$15,000 cash prize provides an opportunity for the winner to further their professional skills and knowledge; benefitting them, their employer and the industry.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Why No One Can Compete with ASOS – (Telegraph)
As the online fashion retailer announces that sales are up 59 percent, we wonder what gives ASOS the edge. “It is very simple,” says Rob Bready, ASOS product and trading director, “the site is beautiful, it’s easy to use and delivery is free”. 

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Counting the Cost – (Sydney Morning Herald)
Australia’s devastating floods will have at least four major economic effects. The first will be a negative impact on economic activity, followed by the second; additional economic activity generated by the rebuilding of homes and replacement of possessions. The third effect will be on inflation and the fourth will be pressure on both federal and state budgets. 

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Consumers Put Debt before Spending – (Business Day)
The gloom is set to continue for New Zealand retailers as consumers set aside purchases in favour of paying mortgage and credit card debt. Research issued by investment company Goldman Sachs predicts retail growth will be more sluggish in 2011 than it was in 2010; just 1.4 percent compared with 1.9 percent. 

Somebody once told me that a recession bodes well for industry organisations, because companies require additional support and people are predisposed to collaborative activity when times are tough. But, like everyone, we had to rethink what we do and how we do it in order to remain relevant; one of the greatest challenges for all fashion businesses and brands in 2010.

Last month, I was lamenting the lack of 'completely cuckoo moments of unbridled imagination' at end-of-year graduate outings. But, I think I found what I was looking for at the Whitecliffe Fashion Show, which was MC-ed by PR maestro Murray Bevan.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The 2011 iD International Emerging Designer Awards attracted more than 120 entries from 20 countries, representing some of the world's most prestigious fashion schools. The selection panel, comprised of leading New Zealand fashion designers, Margi Robertson (Nom*D), Tanya Carlson (Carlson) and Charmaine Reveley, narrowed the field down to 31 finalists, who will show at iD Dunedin Fashion Week in April 2011.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Thanks to everyone for yet another great FINZ Xmas Party, including Eddie and Stephanie at The Crib, and our friends at Beck's. The traffic was terrible and the humidity was off the chart, but that didn't dampen the celebrations. The general consensus was that 2010 has been a tough year for Kiwi ragtraders. And, they're all hanging-out for some well deserved R&R over Christmas. Take a look at the photos (by Alex Tee / ThePeople.co.nz).

Events: FINZ Xmas Party

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

New York-based fashion designer, Diana Eng, will discuss her fascinating work at a lecture in Auckland on February 1, 2011. The former Project Runway contestant, who worked on the R&D team at Victoria's Secret and published a book titled Fashion Geek, has made a name for herself by melding fashion with wearable technology, including LEDs, electro-luminscent wire, inflatables and deployable structures.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Style 99 started with an index of more than 500 fashion and beauty blogs from around the world. After eliminating the ones that were abandoned or updated infrequently, they calculated data, did some math and assigned a score representative of content quality, popularity and general buzz.

The end result is a list of the most influential blogs that spans multiple categories; from the street style of trendsetters around the world, to a behind the scenes look at the people who create and shape the fashion industry. And, of course, the bloggers who stay on top of who's wearing what.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

In 2010, a huge amount of energy and research went into tapping the hearts and minds of Gen-Y consumers. This video shows 13-year old blogging sensation and founder of TheStyleRookie.com, Tavi Gevinson, presenting her thoughts on Gen-Y at the L2 Generation Next Forum. 

“Edgy is a term created by middle-aged, middle-brow people who try to say that they’re doing something really dangerous. But, really they’re just marketing a product that came out of lots of research and meetings,” says Gevinson. 

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The daily call sheets of high profile fashion photographers and publications provide a good indication of the most in-demand models of the moment. But, in an increasingly competitive market, flooded with hundreds of 'cool editorial girls', campaigns and contracts are the final index of a model's success. Based on their work in 2010, here are the top-five faces of the future, ranked by Models.com.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

The New Creative Establishment 2010 – (BOF)
INDUSTRIE magazine lists the 50 most influential and inspirational creatives working fashion today; with an emphasis on the word ‘new’. In the end, those who made the list were selected not only for their creative faculties and contribution to fashion today, but also because of the wider impact their work has had on the business of fashion and other creative industries. 

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)
By Claire Deeks / Senior Associate, James & Wells

After three years of negotiations, international agreement was reached on the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA). It appears that, for most of the countries involved in ACTA (including New Zealand), its immediate effect will be minimal. That said, ACTA will provide a standard for undeveloped and/or developing nations and is likely to provide a useful framework for additional progress in international co-operation in anti-counterfeiting enforcement.

China is changing at a faster pace than most of us expected and it feels as though my business has been hit by difficulties with offshore production overnight. However, in reality, the issues at hand have been building up over the past eight months. The lead times for sampling in China have gone from four-to-six weeks, to six-to-eight weeks. Production delivery dates are tracking a month behind target. Minimums are inching upwards. And, we’re seeing inflation, as factories increase wages in an effort to retain staff.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

China Free Trade Tariff Reductions – (NZ Importers Institute)
From January 1, 2011, duty rates will be marginally lower for Chinese manufactured goods imported direct from the region. The reduction schedule is complicated, given that separate tariffs have been applied to individual items. But, the NZ Importers Institute has put together a very handy duty reduction calendar for Kiwi ragtraders.

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

Importers Bite Bullet on China Price Increase – (Textile Source)
According to an Asian retail logistics specialist, not a single country in the world is poised to present a viable and reliable alternative supply source to China in the near future. This opinion comes as Chinese factories are faced with an inability to meet production demand, resulting in smaller orders being abandoned. And, Chinese factories would rather sell to local companies. 

Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ)

New Zealand designer menswear brand, Crane Brothers, has partnered with Ecostore to provide its discerning customers with samples of plant-based Wool and Delicates Wash. According to Murray Crane, the owner of Crane Brothers, which produces and retails premium men’s clothing, the brand has endorsed Ecostore products for a number of years.

In recognition of the 60th anniversary of the Korean War (1950-1953), the 2010 Korean Film Festival closed with a special event in Auckland recently. Prime Minister, John Key, and the Ambassador and Consul General of the Republic of Korea, were joined by local veterans at a screening of 71 into the Fire; a Korean War movie based on a true story.

Auckland Mayor, Len Brown, is putting his weight behind key Rugby World Cup 2011 initiatives as part of his 100 projects in 100 days crusade. Recognising the benefits that the event will bring to the region, Brown is keen to ensure that the hard work Auckland has put in over the past three years is recognised and continues.

Auckland has been named as the host of The Competitiveness Institute (TCI) conference, to be held from November 28 to December 2, following the Rugby World Cup 2011. The week-long global economic and commerce summit will bring more than 400 international business leaders, policy makers and researchers to the city.