Australian fashion brand, Bettina Liano, is in administration just two years after being rescued by Apparel Group.

It follows the closure of the business’ Australian stores, including its Chapel St flagship, to focus on US retail.

Bettina Liano was founded by an Melbourne designer of the same name and opened its first store in 1990.

It became known for designer denim and mid-to-high end fashion before financial woes caught up to it in 2011.

After entering administration, Liano struck a deal with Apparel Group allowing her to keep financial and creative control.

The designer cited high rents and unreliable suppliers for the brand’s initial troubles in an interview with Inside Retail in March.

Liano planned to open a second US store this year after opening a New York flagship in February.

Hall Chadwick has been appointed as the administrators, with a first creditors meeting set for Friday.