Just as the blossom bloom, so do the spring trends flourish amongst the racks. Every season it’s hard not to be struck afresh by the beautiful collections that are released by some of our favourite labels. Whilst we may want to grab every single piece and run for the hills, good sense dictates that the trick is to select a few key items to bring our wardrobes up to speed. So rather than get overwhelmed at the choice, factor in the top three style considerations – what’s on trend for colour, print and length. Once you have those nailed, it’s all plain sailing.

 

Between 26 August and 1 September, Auckland is rocked by fashion fever. Now in its 19^th year, New Zealand Fashion Week, the biggest must-do on the New Zealand calendar is officially upon us. A mix of both leading and emerging designers will be getting into their groove on the catwalk and bringing the joy of a fully-fledged fashion week to Aotearoa. If however, like me, you thought this event was by invitation only, then I’m the bearer of great tidings – it’s not: there are plenty of events for which fashionistas across the land can grab a ticket and join in the fun (www.nzfashionweek.com).

 

 

Elk aficionados know that this label only drops each new collection every six months.

Devotees will have been counting the days in anticipation, waiting with baited breath for the latest line to be revealed. Well, the time has come to let out a sigh; brace yourselves, as always the wait is most definitely worth it.

 

Spring is without doubt the most exciting time in the fashion calendar. The euphoria is complete when the first week of the new season arrives, and as if by magic the days become filled with brilliant sunshine. With that kind of serendipity at play it’s hard not to cry ay caramba and rip through the new collections with even greater zeal than usual.

 

As soon as you realize that the Twinset label is an Italian brand, the pieces all fall into place. The haze clears as you realize that the delicious blend of femininity (romantic yet not too frou-frou), luxurious fabrics and fabulous styling has its roots in the fashion hub of Milan.

 

In a fashion climate where many design houses are tightening their belts, Caroline Sills is comfortably expanding hers. It’s no mean feat to stay relevant and in demand in the world of fashion, so to be able to say that you have been in business for more than 35 years is a wonderful achievement. Even more fabulous is to be able to say that over the last five years you have added to your core business – in this case the signature brand of Caroline Sills now has diffusion label Sills, and little sister Isaac + Lulu.  In addition the label has opened a succession of physical stores, expanding throughout New Zealand.

 

Sometimes it can be hard to love the signs of ageing, whether you’re 25 and spot your first wrinkle, or 60 and find yourself wondering whether a mini skirt is more Cher and less Chic. Ex UK Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman caused an almighty furor a few weeks ago when she questioned whether ageless beauty Helena Christensen should still be rocking a lace bustier at 50. The implication that sexy should be retired post 40 years old was shot down in an internet storm, and Shulman was left with her tail between her legs, apologizing for the mere suggestion that Helena should be more age appropriate with her choices.

I popped into Wendys on the weekend and was greeted by the gorgeous Linda. I was immediately struck with a massive pang of shoe envy. Rocking a pair of snakeskin gladiator sandals she looked totally on trend – but wait, I cried, staring at her bare toes – what are you thinking, it’s WINTER?!  With a withering look, which could have only been given to full effect by a true fashion devotee, she pointed out that while her toes were bare, her merino and maxi skirt were keeping her toasty warm. The point – when it comes to fashion don’t let winter ruin your mojo.