Hi friends! I hope this finds you all coping well with the lockdown - we’re at the halfway mark here in New Zealand (at this stage), and it’s been lovely seeing so many families out walking, and lots of children playing outside whilst remaining in their bubbles. I’m sure we’re all having ups and downs, I know I certainly am, so it’s vitally important to take care of yourself. I’m no psychologist, but on the days when you feel at your lowest, these are the days when it’s essential to put on a favourite outfit and do your hair and makeup. Don’t do it for anyone but yourself - I promise you WILL feel better!
I’ve been asked about what trends I’m seeing for autumn/winter 2020, and to be honest, I’m finding this a real challenge to write. You see, a couple of months ago this would have been easy but everything has changed so dramatically and so rapidly, that what was relevant even three weeks ago, may not be in a post-COVID-19 world.
Where we were seeing over-sized structured suiting, I would expect to see a softening of these shapes to become more easy-to-wear, and more practical so they can be mixed and matched more readily.
I believe there will be a shift to more intelligent shopping post-lockdown. By that I mean, there may be fewer frivolous, trend-driven purchases and a more practical approach whilst remaining stylish. One key trend that will remain is the colour beige (or nude). That may not excite many of you, but for my money it’s fabulous! There are few colours as versatile - pair it with browns, navy, denim, green, olive, rich burgundies, burnt orange, checks, florals. Get the picture? In summer, pair it with creams and whites for an elegant and fresh look.
Another strong trend will be the cowboy boot - not necessarily paired with your Levi’s and plaid shirt! These are being worn with gorgeous feminine dresses, cute wee shorts (for the more youthful), and skirts. I recommend searching recycle boutiques for a pair of quality, worn-in boots, and in fact, for many of your next purchases. If you have a social conscience, it will be more important than ever to shop local and support the small business owner.
My final top trend is the chunky chain. This can elevate any look, and for those who are handy, you could possibly update something you already own just by adding one! My personal faves are these Gucci sunglasses #getonmyfacenow!
As many of us revisit how we shop post-lockdown, I recommend buying the best quality you can afford even if that means fewer pieces. Beautiful New Zealand merino will far outlast, and outwear, cheaper polyesters and acrylics. And as mentioned earlier, remember that we have some fantastic recycle boutiques - many with stunning designer pieces. There are many around New Zealand (and please add your favourites in the comments!), but some of my personal favourites are:
I Love Labels, Kapiti
To Be Continued, Bryndwr Road, Christchurch
Labels of Late, Merivale, Christchurch
Recycle Boutique, The Tannery. Christchurch
Envie, Rangiora, North Canterbury
Other great stores to support are:
Halo & Hazard, Northlands, Christchurch
Andrea Biani (Shoes and Treasurebox)
Moochi, throughout New Zealand
Taylor Boutique, Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch
Storm Clothing, Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown
Trelise Cooper, New Zealand and Australia
Why not hop on over and like their Facebook pages, and give them a follow on Instagram? That way you’ll be right up-to-date with their new releases, and who knows maybe you’ll find a piece that you can buy online today ………..