One thing is certain - it is not CIRCULATION - that is OK when you are talking about magazines or some such - clearly the client got that one out of a dictionary !

http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diffusion

Limited confidence because not my field
http://www.thefashionspot.com/forums/f60/designers-w-diffusi...

For me, it doesn't take away from the desirability of a main line. In general, I'd much rather buy one gorgeous piece from the house line than 3 or 4 from a watered-down diffusion label.

But in a general scope, I definitely think it cheapens the name of, say, Versace as a whole when you see some logoed faux python print tacky-as-hell miniskirt in the Versace Jeans Couture line. Same with KORS, GFF, and Emporio. The only really successful and well-done diffusions I can think of are Marc, Miu, and D&G.

If a house goes to the trouble to set up a diffusion, they need to realize the importance of maintaining it. I remember when Marc originally launched back in about '98 or so. It was pretty bland and boring and I think it just disappeared for awhile until the 2001 relaunch. But I think the success of Marc will inspire more designers to launch their own diffusions and hopefully, maintain them well.

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Note added at 55 mins (2006-04-04 12:21:16 GMT)
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I should add that in my career as an international interpreter I had to dress to fit the occasion and my bills could have skyrocketed so I discovered the parallel system that gave me fashion at cheaper prices....
Today it doesn't matter so I'm living off my hump... except for my crazy moments...