Evaluate the design of the organization of the "news block" on the site

Question

Design

I ask you to evaluate a small block on our client's website in terms of the correctness of its organization. The block on the main page of the site is www.star-tex.ru and is designated as NEW ARRIVALS.

As you can see, the last item in this block is news, and they are highlighted.

How wrong do you think this block looks? Are the circles under the block perceived as fabrics presented in the catalog. Is it clear that this is not news (considering the highlighting of the news section?).

Our opinions are divided, someone believes that the appearance of NEWS in this block is not critical. However, the click-through rate of this block is very high and I would not want to lead visitors on the wrong route.

Answer 1

I judge purely by the user: if the entire site is in the same dark style, and one section of the menu is highlighted in pink , no matter how, then it is logical to think that you are in this section.
To understand that the “Clothing fabrics” item is not active, and therefore it is highlighted in white, you must first take your eyes off the bright “news” item, and secondly, move the mouse over it.
IMHO "News" in the same yellow color as other menu items and it will be okay.
PS showed the blonde secretary, the opinions coincided =)

Answer 2

Why are there tabs at all?
Fabric samples fit perfectly in the column.

Answer 3

And I've been looking for news for a long time. And I found them where I didn't expect to find them.
Circles morally kill. squares are better...