COUTURE

Image: Still Vision Photography

AOTEAROA’S OFFERINGS

Kia Dirkson, Fashion & Beauty Editor Travel restrictions may have eased, but I find myself still exploring and taking in what Aotearoa has to offer. Booking flights hasn’t been easier since the dawn of aviation, and with a couple of clicks, the barrier between here and there is closer than ever.

I look at local travel destinations as just another office space, and no matter where I go in Aotearoa, fashion is at the forefront of people’s minds, with luxe little shops popping up all over. For instance, in Geraldine, I was able to source the most scrumptious hand-knitted layette and shower gifts at the baby boutique Frankie Did It.

If I were to attempt to define New Zealand’s top five travel destinations as they pertain to shopping, this is what I would say: Queenstown offers top shops to top travellers. Wellington defines thrifting. Auckland stands strong as the fashion hub. Akaroa offers French flair. Christchurch is boldly (re)building its brand.

A trip of note was my recent visit to Queenstown, where I attended the Trelise Cooper Breast Cancer Cure event hosted by the award-winning The Rees Hotel. Fashion is a force that truly brings like-minded people together, with guests arriving from all over New Zealand.

Attendees donned their best dress while taking in the latest collections from the famed designer’s fashion show that featured a brilliantly lit runway and worthy dance tunes that perfectly suited the vibe.

Now that I am back in Christchurch, what do I have to look fashionably forward to? Riccarton Park’s Grand National Festival of Racing, where I will serve as a judge for Winter Fashion in the Field. Again, entrants will be visiting our city from all over the country for a chance to showcase their intricately planned ensembles and vie for premium fashion honours and prizes.

I have been travelling my entire life and what I have learned is that a few fashionable essentials began to repeat their presence in my bag. This month’s selections reflect those items that we may all need whether we are jet-setting to the North Island or backpacking on the West Coast.

Comet Satchel, $799 deadlyponies.com

Stone Mask, $19.95 untouchedworld.com Moana Road Ginger Rogers Glasses, $59.99 hapa.co.nz

Ladelle Tempa drink bottle, $35 ballantynes.co.nz Muse Cashmere Wrap, $750 museboutique.co.nz

Camilla and Marc Trench Coat, $1,699 devalboutique.nz Pony Rider Leather Jacket, $1,599 deadlyponies.com

JHL Leisure Set (three piece), $1187 juliettehogan.co.nz Philippe Model Sneakers, $589 fashionsociety.co.nz Lilian Wool Silk Scarf, $139 cittadesign.com

STATEMENT PIECE

Heading away for the weekend? This is the perfect bag to grab and go! Curated from some of the finest leather, this is a must-have in your travel wardrobe. Ted Baker doesn’t disappoint in creating the carry all that holds all!

Ted Baker Bag, $599 ballantynes.co.nz

WELL-HEELED

Daphne Combat Boot, Mi Piaci, $400 Handcrafted in Portugal, this brilliant boot is a dramatic update of the classic Chelsea. It will have you navigating through winter weather with style and ease, featuring an easy on and off gusset to avoid any wet mess. The emphasised treaded sole is ideally paired with jeans by day or slipped on under a dress for a dramatic look at night.

ADORE THIS STORE THREAD CRED

Lover Lover

Designer Abby Melton has had a lifelong love of colour, and as the Chief Maker of Lover Lover Statement Earrings, her passion is captured in each collection. The ultrafeminine earrings are empowering. Each pair boasts a kitschy name like Clementine, Lulu, and Madame Rach that easily uplift any outfit and boldly accessorise the most eclectic ensembles. The recently announced collaboration between Lover Lover and Trelise Cooper will have lucky travellers finding select pieces from the range in upscale boutiques across Aotearoa, including Hapa’s stores at the BNZ Centre and The Tannery. loverlover.nz | @loverlover_nz WHO Christina

WHERE Workshop at The Crossing

WHY WE LOVE THIS LOOK We are going back to black with this classic combo from Workshop. This is a transseasonal look that will turn heads from city to city. Here’s the fashion breakdown: Blazer: Acne Janny Suiting Jacket Pant: Acne Pamine Trouser Top: Helen Cherry Cleo Blouse Shoes: Common Projects Bag: By Far Miranda Patent Shoulder Bag Discover fashion, beauty, and more in Christchurch’s retail heart at The Crossing, located just off Cashel Mall.