ROSES - SORUM TO LAUNCH CLOTHING LINE WITH TOP DESIGNER

Former GUNS N' ROSES star MATT SORUM is to launch a new fashion line and boutique across the road from Los Angeles' trendy Urth Cafe. The drummer, who is currently a member of Velvet Revolver, has teamed up with designer Max Noce to create the Sorum Noce clothing line. The two friends plan to launch the new venture in March (08), a month before opening a new West Hollywood store on Melrose Avenue. Noce, a former house designer for Valentino and Dolce + Gabbana among others, has created outfits for Sorum for the past decade. Sorum admits he was inspired to become the latest rocker to launch a clothing line by another designer pal, John Varvatos, who he has modelled for. He tells Blabbermouth.net, "I went into this with an understanding that it might be a challenge. But John Varvatos, who has become a really good friend of mine, gave me the courage to think that it could be done." Noce adds rockers Depeche Mode inspired his creations for the new line: "There is nothing oversized or flashy."