The much anticipated expansion of cotton-based powerlooms in Gujarat by the Powerloom Development and Export Promotion Council (PDEXCIL) has hit a roadblock since almost a year due to delay in the Textile Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS). While PDEXCIL was looking to strengthen the powerloom sector in Gujarat by adding 50,000 more cotton-based looms, the Government of India's delay in announcing a 30 per cent subsidy for the sector has derailed the former's plans. "There are over 500,000 looms i

Sonya Lennon and Brendan Courtney, the talented designer duo from Ireland’s most popular fashion-based television series Off the Rails, aired on channel RT? One, have come up with their own clothing collection titled 'Lennon Courtney'. The 31-piece capsule collection is based on the stylists’ vivid experiences gained by dressing a range of Irish women, who appeared on their famous TV series. The wearable and multi-functional clothing line features silk dresses with bracelet sleeves in mult

Romantic themes of innocence and fiery passion revealed in a secret Spanish garden, lush textures and emotive drama, have provided the inspiration behind Valisere’s Spring 2013 collection. Exquisite combinations of jacquard lace, European embroidery and delectable fabrics and finishes have been brought together in a spectacular display of design harmony that celebrates feminine sensuality through artistic creativity and opulence. This season also features an ultra-feminine selection of sof

Famous Irish milliner Phillip Treacy, aristocratic English fashion designer Lady Natasha Rufus Issacs and menswear label Hacket London, all came together to showcase their myriad creations at the recently concluded royal polo event organized in India. Hosted by the world famous polo event organizer British Polo Day, the four-day-long event took place in the two popular Indian cities – Mumbai and Jodhpur. The royal affair witnessed a range of colourful headwear, including a bright red fasci

The British Fashion Council (BFC) announce a new and exciting partnership between LONDON show ROOMS, one of the BFC’s international showcasing initiatives, and farfetch.com, the revolutionary online market place for independent boutiques which looks to nurture talent and foster diversity in fashion. farfetch.com will collaborate with LONDON show ROOMS providing support through joint events in each market and will open up their global network of boutiques to LONDON show ROOMS designers. LONDON

The Apparel Export Promotion Council, representing the industry bodies in apparel and textiles sector, said that it is “disappointed” with the Reserve Bank’s mid-quarter monetary policy review announced today. The apex bank has kept the key interest rates unchanged but hinted at easing rates in January stating that with decline in inflation, the focus of monetary policy would shift to the task of removing the impediments to growth. Overlooking the demands of the industry and the bankers, the

The largest employer, plus the most lucrative industrial segment in Gurgaon, the garment sector is going through tough times these days. According to analysts, exports to countries in Europe have fallen by as much as 20%, and to the USA, the other big market, by around 8%. The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) which is headquartered here, has now issued a set of recommendations, which, it claims, can effectively remedy this decline. The AEPC proposal, which is addressed to the department

MW Canada Ltd., a leading manufacturer of engineered materials for the window covering and specialty fabric markets, relies on OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification to ensure that their textiles are tested to be free from more than 300 harmful chemicals such as pesticides, heavy metals, formaldehyde, carcinogenic dyestuffs, and residual surfactants. "OEKO-TEX certification is an assurance we give our customers that our products are safe for their clients and for their employees," says Bob Berge

Protesters participate in a "Global Day" of action against Wal-Mart in Florida on December 14. The protesters called for an end to alleged retaliation against US Wal-Mart worker activists. Photo: AFP Wal-Mart Stores Inc has begun discussions with other retailers that would force suppliers to pay for safety upgrades of overseas factories after a Bangladesh fire killed more than 100 people last month. Four days after the blaze, Rajan Kamalanathan, Wal-Mart's vice-president for ethical stan