• It’s the perfect time to go shopping with Australian designers being forced to slash prices by up to 80 per cent in order to compete with department store clearances. There are plenty of great bargins to be had, with designers like Jayson Brunsdon, Alex Perry and Nicola Finetti cutting up to $1000 off the cost of their gowns. Luxury brands Hermes and Prada are also selling their in-store collections for half price.
  • US singer Katy Perry has taken legal action against Australian fashion designer Katie Perry and won’t allow her to trademark her name. Lawyers acting for the singer and musician are opposing a bid by a local fashion designer to trademark her birth name, Katie Perry, for her clothing label, despite the minor difference in spelling. The Australian Perry started her label two years ago and received a letter last week from the popstar’s lawyers, asking her to stop trading.
  • The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CDFA) has given Michelle Obama a special tribute award to recognise her contribution to the fashion world. CDFA president, Diane von Furstenberg, presented the first lady with the award and noted the boost that she has given the industry.
  • Chanel has opened its first ready-to-wear store in a shopping mall in Australia. The new store has opened at Westfield Bondi Junction and Louis Vuitton is soon to follow. Both brands are also planning to open stores at Chadstone in November. Luxury won’t come cheap though, at Chanel prices start at $310 for a badge and top out at $11,600 for a jacket.