SUMMER DRAPERY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23770, 25 September 1940, Page 13

SUMMER DRAPERY

'GOOD STOCKS HELD MORE LOCAL MANUFACTURES SHORTAGE OF BATHING CAPS Considering the handicaps of the war and import restrictions, Auckland drapers are carrying surprisingly good stocks of spring and summer goods. There is a marked shortage in a few lines, while in others there is scarcely the same variety, but generally speaking Auckland shoppers will find tho usual selection. Practically all Continental goods are now unobtainable, and drapers have to rely mainly on British and New Zealand articles. There are many anomalies in import restriction. Auckland firms are still receiving letters from manufacturers in Britain asking them to take increased quantities of goods. Many of tiieso arc urgently required in the Dominion, but drapers are prohibited from buying on account of the import restrictions. Local Manufactures Most of tho women's apparel is now made in New Zealand, and drapers" state the manufacturers have risen to tho occasion admirably. Shoes come in the same category. As the majority of millinery was already made in the Dominion, there has been little change. The selection of handbags is reported to be not as wide as usual. Bathing caps aro in very short supply. Imports, which came mainly from Canada and America, are entirely prohibited, and very few caps aro made in New Zealand. While there are ample stocks of bathing suits, it is pointed out that these are of little use without bathing caps. Men's Wear Trade One of the most difficult problems faced by drapers is to supply the demand for stockings. Fair quantities of the service weights are obtainable, but the lighter sheers are in very short supply. Gloves, printed silks, children's handkerchiefs and novelty presents also aro scarce, while there is a marked shortage of sheetings, and flannel and flannelette for pyjamas. Trade in men's wear has been maintained fairly well, and some clothiers expressed tho opinion that business was much better than had been expected.