Retail therapy: New York tales

London had its last Fashion Week show yesterday, while New York Fashion Week closed last week, with some key trends for next season emerging - the most graphic being Marc Jacobs' bold polka dots. Jacobs' version of spots this time around had a kinky subversiveness to them, with latex button-down shirts and dresses made of rubber-like "sequins".

He explained backstage that he wanted "something strict and severe". Americana and the Wild West was one of the main themes, however, making its mark in various collections - like Rodarte's rustic and romantic take on Days of Heaven (long silk skirts, cosy knitwear and prairie coats) and Proenza Schouler's graphic take on Native American textiles.

She's got ethics

We applaud Livia Giuggioli, actor Colin Firth's wife, who wears only ethical fashion on the red carpet. The couple have been making the rounds recently with Firth's role in The King's Speech, and will attend the Oscars on February 27. We think her attitude to red carpet dressing is a refreshing change from the over-the-top fashion race that it can sometimes be.

There's a sale

If you're in the market for some underground local fashion, head to St Kevin's Arcade on K Rd tomorrow night between 5pm-8pm. A designer clearance sale in association with the City Designers Market will feature pieces from the likes of Flox, Harriet Falvey, Misty Lang and more.

Fashion's latest award

A new award has opened for local designers and brands, focusing on creativity and excellence in fashion-specific communication design - so the architecture of brands and the communication of brand messages, through the use of copy-writing, web design, copy-writing, advertising, photography, illustration, animation, film and spatial concepts.

Called the James & Wells: Fashion Communication Design Award, it is a collaboration between Fashion Industry New Zealand (FINZ) and James & Wells Intellectual Property.

"Communication design is about so much more than fashion imagery. It's a discipline that involves strategic thinking, market research and problem solving," says FINZ's executive officer Mapihi Opai.

"It's all about being relevant, making sure that every element of the brand speaks to and connects with the target audience."

There will be a public exhibition of three finalists' work at Sale Street bar and restaurant during the New Zealand Fashion Festival in March, with the winner receiving intellectual property services to the value of $5000 and an annual membership subscription from FINZ.

What's underneath

We love Ingrid Starnes' feminine winter collection, which has begun arriving in store - including her own store-within-a-store at Miss Crabb's Ponsonby Road boutique. Starnes also recently added a line of lingerie to her brand, with the first capsule range including slips, bras and camisoles that look far too pretty to be covered up. Ingrid Starnes cami, $150, ph (09) 361 3322.