Imitate That Zipper! (New York Times)
“In recent months, a veritable industry has sprung up around [Rick] Owens, who may be fashion’s most imitated designer. Rival houses are racing to produce their own distillations of his angular flaps, zigzagging zippers, gossamer T-shirts and biker jackets pliant as second skins.”

Burberry May Speed U.S. Growth Amid Deals on NYC, Indiana Space (Bloomberg)
Burberry may accelerate plans to open U.S. stores as premium shop space becomes available at cheaper prices. “Spaces we thought may not have been available a couple of years ago are available now,” said Stacey Cartwright, CFO.

Versace ends licence deal with IT Holding unit (Reuters)
“Italian fashion house Versace has ended its licensing deal with IT Holding unit Ittierre — currently in special administration — for the production and distribution of its VJC and Versace Sport lines, it said.”

Girl-Next-Door Looks Come Back Into Fashion (Wall Street Journal)
“In Weak Economy, Magazines and Design Houses Play It Safe, Replacing Edgy Models With ‘Classic’ Beauties.”

Top Marks for Topman (Guardian)
“Topman has come a long way from being Topshop’s uncool little brother – these days it leads the way in menswear, with top designers watching closely.”

Rachel Roy A/W 09, courtesy of Style.com

Jones to sell exclusive Rachel Roy line at Macy’s (WSJ)
“Jones Apparel Group Inc., which has a 50 percent stake in designer Rachel Roy, said it’s launching a contemporary line called Rachel Rachel Roy to be sold exclusively at Macy’s Inc.”

Bulgari CEO Sees First Loss Since 1999, Then Rebound (Bloomberg)
“Bulgari SpA Chief Executive Officer Francesco Trapani said he expects the Italian luxury company to post a first-quarter loss, followed by a gradual recovery in demand for the label’s Assioma watches and Allegra jewelry.”

Fashion sales rise 10.5% for week to April 12 (Drapers)
“Fashion sales rose 10.5 percent for the week to April 12 compared to the same week last year, according to BDO Stoy Hayward’s High Street Sales Tracker.”

Prepping for a Vionnet Exhibit (WWD)
“A 72-year-old Madeleine Vionnet halterneck gown, a crumpled heap of brittle tulle and silk flowers, has been laid out for inspection in the restoration rooms of Les Arts.” (Subscription required)