In bloom this Spring
Florals are a classic for spring fashion, and why not? It’s hard to resist the temptation of floaty, flowery pieces when enjoying some warmer weather after rugging up under heavy woollens.
Tip: A great way to wear florals this season is to pair them with a classic white tee, as in this classy and contemporary ensemble from Michael Kors.
Kiwi sisters Emma Clark and Rana Reuther have taken sleepwear into the world of luxury with their brand Willa and Mae.
We talked to Emma about their label.
Where did the name Willa and Mae come from?
They are old family names and we felt they represented what we wanted Willa and Mae to be, which was strong yet still feminine.
How do you find working with your sister?
It’s great, there’s no one else I would want to be in business with. We have very similar tastes; we are drawn to the same styles and colours.
What inspires your collections?
So much – when we started Willa and Mae we wanted it to be a luxury brand and to produce something beautiful. We believe in quality investment pieces as opposed to fast fashion. Neither of us has a background in fashion, so we just design what we want to wear and what we love.
What should women look for when choosing sleepwear?
You want it to be comfortable, but you also want a great finish in the fabric and manufacturing. Our garments are finished with French seams, so they are as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside. But also look out for things like the colour and drape.
Why do you choose silk?
Silk is such a lovely fabric to wear. It has all the right properties, such as natural fibres, it’s hypoallergenic, it breathes, it’s light yet it’s warm, and added to that is the beauty of it.
What is the best way to wash silk garments?
I wash my silk with a ‘delicate wash’ soap on a delicate cycle in my machine. If I am travelling and need to wash them, I use shampoo – it works brilliantly.
Left: The new 9-5 Gotta dress, $250; and Arena pants, $260; both from Moochi. Right: DKNY green tote, $600; and Maddi floral fantasy tote, $69; both from Everme.
Bag brag
Who doesn’t love a great bag?
For style that will fit you – and suit you – whatever your body shape, size or age, you just can’t go wrong with a fantastic bag. Which is why we are loving everme.co.nz
From totes to clutches, in a wide range of brands, this online shop has one of the largest selections available in New Zealand.
Work mates
Updating the work wardrobe can be a strenuous task – how do you find the perfect combination of appropriate, fashionable and comfortable? Start with a few foundation pieces in classic, versatile lines that offer endless options to mix and match, then add pops of colour and accessories to vary the look. We’re coveting these Moochi pieces for their soft tailoring and modern silhouettes.
Coastal couture
The New Zealand Fashion Museum will celebrate 100 years of seaside style with its At the Beach exhibition. More than 120 outfits – from woollen bathers to tiny bikinis and Hawaiian shirts – dating back to the early 1900s will be on display. It will be hosted at the Maritime Museum in Auckland from October 15 until February 8, 2016.
Photos by Getty Images.
All prices are approximate.
