Perry Ellis Launches New Line As Director Departs

Sportswear giant Perry Ellis International Inc has announced plans to broaden its women''s clothing line as one of its directors leaves to join a competitor.

The Miami-based company has, following the successful relaunch of its womenswear division, signed a licensing agreement with Amiee Lynn Inc to manufacture and distribute women''s cold weather accessories under the Perry Ellis and Perry Ellis Portfolio labels.

The new line, which will include hats, scarves and gloves, will target customers between the ages of 25 and 40 and, according to chairman and CEO George Feldenkreis, represents "another step toward reestablishing Perry Ellis womenswear as the leading collection for women."

Meanwhile, board of directors member Allan Zwerner has announced his resignation from the company to take on the role of president at Tommy Hilfiger''s children''s division.

While at the company, Zwerner helped oversee the acquisitions of Jantzen and Salant Corp. Perry Ellis, which operates a group of 25 leading fashion labels, will now seek to fill the vacancy with an independent outside director.