loose threads

Online Retailing Booms Despite Economy; Rihanna Supports Emerging Designer

• E-tailing is booming despite the terrible economy, since customers are more comfortable shopping online. Retail executives expect the annual average 25 percent growth rate in online sales to continue. [WWD]

• Topshop owner Sir Philip Green is backing a new fund established by the British Fashion Council to support London’s emerging designers. [WWD]

• Peter Pilotto won’t show his spring 2009 collection until tomorrow, but he’s already getting great buzz since Rihanna wore one of his creations to the Video Music Awards. [British Vogue]

Christopher Kane’s spring 2009 collection shown at London Fashion Week was inspired by Planet of the Apes. [Fashionologie]

• Emma Watson looked all grown up on the front rows of Christopher Kane’s and Giles Deacon’s shows in London yesterday. [Daily Mail]

Online Retailing Booms Despite Economy; Rihanna Supports Emerging Designer