Add some descriptive text to your all collections page.
Ciao Bella
Posted on
Twinset- The Label Of Luxe
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.
It’s impossible not to look at the pieces and feel joy at every single one – Marie Kondo (the ruthless de-clutterer who famously loves to encourage wardrobe clear outs) would not make much headway amongst these racks.
Caroline Sills
Posted on
A Brand That Means Business
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.
Grey Power
Posted on
Age Is No Object In High Fashion
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.
Hot Style On Cold Days
Posted on
Mix and Match Your Fashion To Beat The Winter Blues
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.
The Seven Deadly Knits
Posted on
Irresistible Woolens To Take You Through The Week
Knitwear is a seasonal staple, which is great because it means you don’t feel guilty when it comes to replacing and updating your collection. This year has seen knitwear really come into it’s own, not just as a throw on, but also as the hero of the outfit. In fact so cool are the knits out there, that with a little help from your woolly friends every day of the week can scream sartorial style.
Mad for the Met Gala
Posted on
A Kaleidoscope of Outrageous Style From Fashion’s Biggest Night
Known as being the biggest fashion event of the year, the Met Gala Ball is extravaganza to trump all others. An annual Charity event, this is the moment when International designers, their muses and a bevvy of handpicked A-list celebrities, all gather to showcase a chosen theme.
Pop Culture
Posted on
Festival Fashion Heats Up At Coachella
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, held over two weekends in April in Indio, California, is definitely one festival where you hear as much about the fashion as you do about the music. Actually, I’m being polite – you hear way more about the fashion. In New Zealand and definitely in the UK, even if you’re Kate Moss generally as good as festival wear gets is a boho dress, a pair of daisy dukes and the obligatory gumboots.
Corporate To Casual
Posted on
Three Key Considerations When Choosing A Jacket
Cool mornings and evenings, but warm sunny days mean that without a shadow of a doubt, strategic trans-seasonal dressing is very much a thing. Women can be seen the country over peeling off their layers by lunchtime – and at this point I would guess before leaving the house, most of us are digging in our wardrobes for that perfect mid season jacket.
Catwalk Queens
Posted on
1 comment
Wendy Showcases Seasonal Looks
On Tuesday evening Wendy hosted a fashion show at her Central Plaza Boutique. Here ladies gathered, bubbles in hand, to see the new seasons’ trends as they were strutted up and down an intimate catwalk. It was actually a little emotional; Wendy admitted that after just celebrating 35 years in business, glancing around at the familiar faces of her clients, her family and her wonderful team, the support on the night seemed all the more poignant. Ever the professional, she may have been overwhelmed but she certainly wasn’t about to shed tears all over her stunning forest green chiffon top, so with a few laughs and a smile the show began.
Top To Toe Fashion
Posted on
Hair Flair For Autumn
When it comes to hair the dawning of a new season can feel a bit like a relationship break-up. The desire to change it up becomes all consuming – those tousled salted summer locks, which through the warm months felt boho and easy care, now feel messy and unkempt. Not to say split, crispy and somewhat fragile after endless sun and sand exposure. So if you feel like it may be time for a hairstyle overhaul, you’re not alone.
She’s The One
Posted on
Find Your Perfect Coat For 2019
If you haven’t started thinking about your cold weather coat collection yet, then the chances are you will be very soon. Coats have morphed from purely practical to the ultimate statement piece, and are right up there on the ‘must-have’ list. The good old winter warmer basically ranks as the most important sartorial investment for autumn and winter, and your choice will say it all about how you plan to face the months ahead.
Jump Start Autumn
Posted on
Knits To Get You Noticed
It’s known as easy-wear, and beneath those carefully coiffured exteriors, even the most superbly primped and polished ladies love a bit of cosy, comfy autumn knitwear. And it’s that time of year when its moment has come upon us – that morning chill in the air that calls for next level coverage. As if by magic the boutique designer knitwear is hitting the shelves, but is flying out as fast as it’s coming in, so clearly there are lots of cool-clime lovers out there.
Girl Power
Posted on
8 comments
This Week Wendy Celebrates 35 years In Business
It’s hard to believe that Wendy has been beaming her sunny smile into the fashion industry for 35 years. For a start she looks far too youthful, but there is also no sign of burnout, or of just having had enough of the cut and thrust. Fashion is a notoriously unforgiving industry, with many falling by the wayside. Yet Wendy continues to radiate gorgeousness and goodwill. Clearly beneath the unerringly happy façade is a gritty businesswoman, who has the metaphorical balls to back herself, put it all on the line, and keep changing with the times to keep her business relevant and successful.
Spotlight On Elk
Posted on
1 comment
Conscientious Conceptual Fashion
If you have gazed enviously at images of cool, chic – seemingly effortlessly - stylish influencers, and wondered how you can emulate that particular style, that is as minimalist as a Mondrian, yet every inch as much of a masterpiece, then look no further. With sharp, carefully considered designs, and uncluttered silhouettes at the heart of its ethos, the Elk label epitomizes clean, contemporary style. If you love the simplicity of Scandinavian design, then look no further, because if you’re not already a devotee then watch out, because you’re going to adore the Elk label.
Golden Moments At The Oscars
Posted on
Outlandish, Ostentatious – A Fashion Extravaganza
and the annual Academy Awards is a great big one. The ultimate platform to showcase new takes on glamour, the fanfare really can’t be seen to be all about the dresses; yet, for a lot of us, let’s be honest, that’s exactly what we’re tuning in for. Of course we care (a little bit) who gets on Oscar, but with top designers showcasing their wares we are getting a catwalk of the best in International design.
Autumn Trends Part 2
Posted on
Fashion For Fall
The mental shift to gear up for a new season can seem odd when the sun is still beating down in full summer mode. However, if fashion designers know anything, it’s how to pique our interest in what we will be wearing when it cools right down. And let’s be honest, at this point even the most dedicated fans of summer (such as myself) are ready for a change of pace.
Autumn Trends Part 1
Posted on
Knocking On New Season’s Door
Everywhere in the fashion world, autumn is met with a frission of excitement. Put bluntly, it’s the biggest whoop of all the seasons. The first autumn issue of any fashion mag is notoriously the meatiest, jammed with delights. Why so? Well, the school year – and in the Southern Hemisphere a new year also - has begun. For many, after the hiatus that summer often brings, work is starting to amp up. It’s a time of renewal, maybe even a personal transformation – and for most of us, if we need a bit of a makeover then the wardrobe is by far the best place to start.
She’s Got Ink
Posted on
1 comment
Wendy Wings Trends Off The Catwalk And To Her Customers
If you’re a fan of boutique designer brands that consistently nail the new trends, and always seem to be on the money with the latest designs, then no doubt you’ll be waiting for the new season with bated breath. It’s almost here - the moment that you can flick through the rails of autumn looks from the Ink clothing label. The brainchild of Wendy herself, Ink is a line stocked exclusively at Wendys and Tilda. It was created with the aim of bringing to these two stores looks that cannot be found anywhere else in New Zealand.
Instant Update
Posted on
Jazz Up Your Look With The Perfect Accessory
Coming to an end of a season is inevitably a wee bit tricksy. You know for a fact that the shops are about to be flooded with new styles to wow, but hopefully you’re still head over heels in love with the clothes that you’ve invested in for the current season. And yet, yes, you are feeling like an injection of va va voom is needed. The answer lies in your accessories.
Life Kondo
Posted on
Organise Your Shopping Habits for 2019
Organise Your Shopping Habits for 2019
Everyone in the world seems to be watching the Netflix sensation Marie Kondo, the organizational guru, who apparently is single handedly responsible for International storage solution sales skyrocketing. She’s also the reason that several of my friends have been text bombing me with pictures of their folded jumper / t-shirt / lingerie drawers. The whole world it seems is going absolutely nuts for the refreshed version of the age-old adage, ‘tidy house, tidy mind.’
What To Buy Right Now
Posted on
Sale Fever Has Hit – Don’t Miss Out
The beauty of the digital age is that no matter where you are, or what the time of day, when the sales hit you can still have your finger on the pulse. Sale time is when the boutique designer clothing dream can become a reality – whether it be that classic Paula Ryan piece or the coveted Trelise Cooper overcoat, an ‘I couldn’t possibly’ can quickly become an ‘I absolutely must’
Day Dreams
Posted on
The Perfect Go-To Holiday-Wear Items
With the warm weather cranking up to delicious heights and the festivities of embracing a new year still fresh in our minds, even though most people are starting to filter back to work, it still feels as though the summer break is in full swing. Whether it’s visiting family, tripping around the countryside or flying further afield, it’s a great time to enjoy a holiday. And we all know what that means…from clothing to jewellery - the all important summer holiday wardrobe.
Wendys World
Posted on
Wendy’s World
It’s pretty hard to believe, but 2018 has come to an end. How better to welcome in the New Year, than with a few words from Wendy herself.
Christmas Cheer
Posted on
Top Tips On How Not To Make A Mark This Season
It’s surely happened to every single one of us at some point. You’ve got your best dress on, you’re sashaying through the kitchen and swoosh - before you know it you’ve become a victim of flying fat from the roasting pan. While there may not be an immediate solution, there are certainly steps you can take to ease the long-term effects.
Wish List
Posted on
It’s The Final Countdown
Well, the Christmas parties are in full swing, the sun is shining – intermittently of course – and anticipation is building.
Of course, the joy is in the giving at this time of year, but sometimes while looking tirelessly for others it might happen that a few bits come on to your own mental wish list…perhaps a boutique dress or a stunning designer jacket. So, why not have an answer ready for the inevitable question of whether there’s anything you would like for Christmas? Yes, yes there is!!
Inspiration and Aspiration
Posted on
Who Wore What - Industry Insiders
Award shows and Red Carpet events undoubtedly make spectacular spectator sport; none more so than the British Fashion Awards. This year on Monday night in the Royal Albert Hall, London it was clear that models, designers and anyone who is anyone in the world of fashion had not just pulled out their finest glad rags from the wardrobe, but were showcasing the absolute best in Designer women’s’ clothing.
Christmas Cheer
Posted on
Get Festive With A Boutique Designer Ensemble
Well – excitement is now at fever pitch. Just as we’re starting to get our zing on for the festive season Wendys Boutique and Tilda have both had a big drop of oh so super cool summer looks. And if there’s one thing we’re all just starting to hunt for it’s our Christmas party outfits. So let’s get down to the nitty gritty. There are myriad fashion needs over the party period – there will be the summer gatherings, the evening events – hopefully a Christmas party or two. Then of course there’s the big day itself.
“It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas”
Posted on
Gifts Galore In Store And Online At Wendys And Tilda
It’s that time when you can’t help but start to get a wee bit excited; with less than a month to Christmas no one is going to call you keen if you start dusting off those decorations and sneaking them out of their boxes. I’m always hugely admiring of anyone who manages to theme their decorations and I love those beautifully put together stories, where every element complements each other. It’s also that time when you start to look around and gather those all-important gifts – before panic sets in at the task ahead, rest assured - help is at hand at Wendys Boutique and Tilda.
Future Proof Your Wardrobe
Posted on
Summer Trends 2018 - 2019
Of course it’s a well-known fact that women’s fashion is a fast mover. Now this is a glorious thing, because the sheer pleasure that every new twist and turn brings is immeasurable. The flip side is that not everyone has the ability to re-invest in each new designer label top trend. To circumnavigate this conundrum the simple answer is to pick the looks that are going to be around for a while.
So what, from the summer picks of 2018 are we likely to see trending for summer 2019?
Fresh As A Daisy
Posted on
Fashion Loves Floral This Season
Trelise Cooper, Twinset, Moss & Spy – these are just a few of the New Zealand and Australian designers and boutique labels who quite simply knock the ball out of the park when it comes to bringing us floral prints that make us want to weep at their sheer beauty. Of course the endless creativity of these designers doesn’t seem too big a stretch, when for inspiration they only have to look to the magnificent landscapes of the Southern Hemisphere. The colours, the vibrancy, and the variety – the blooming beauty abounds.
Classic Good Looks
Posted on
Inspiration From The Silver Screen
Classic Fashion is making a come back. The movie of the moment has to be A Star Is Born with Lady Gaga taking the role played by Barbara Streisand in the 1976 remake of the original film. It’s fascinating to see that since making the movie, Lady Gaga, once known for her borderline crazy fashion choices (think her Meat Dress that once graced –or disgraced- the Red Carpet) is now making a whole new style statement. Slick, sophisticated and downright stunning, she has been working old-school Hollywood glamour to the max.
Fashion With A Message
Posted on
Communicating Through Your Clothes
Right from the outset Meghan Markle positioned herself – clotheshorse – not likely. Social influencer, ooh yes please. This we all know, yet inevitably the fanfare of the Pacific tour of Prince Harry and Meghan meant that every outfit looked set to be scrutinized. Anticipation was high; then - what sorcery is this? The couple announced a pregnancy, which of course meant that pulling apart the attire of every day seemed a wee bit nit picky, and it brought home the point that with Ms Markle’s outfit choices there was more at play than just a little frippery.
Spot It
Posted on
Fashionistas Go Dotty For Spots And Stripes
There’s something beautiful in the simplicity of a spot or a stripe, and it was clear from the offset of this season that dots were going to be big news in designer fashion. From polka to more of a statement spot, the catwalks were awash with them; and it was fun to watch as designers played with colour and scale. Their partner in crime, the stripe was also there for all to see – bold, Breton, vertical, horizontal; they have all cemented their place as a wardrobe staple this season.
By Royal Command
Posted on
Fall In Love With Occasion Wear
Wedding season is upon us, and what better way to kick it off, than with the Royal Wedding of Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank for style inspiration. Add to this the fact that Prince Harry and Meghan are currently taking a wee jaunt to this neck of woods, and fashion commentators are beside themselves with excitement.
Hot To Trot
Posted on
Race Day Fashion – How To Pick A Winner
It has to be said that of all the Spring/ Summer Events on the calendar, Race Day is one of the most exciting occasions to dress for –like Harry and Meghan, racing and fashion are the perfect combination. While the main race events do not start for a little while in New Zealand, anyone heading over the ditch will be feeling the pressure right now to put together the perfect outfit, and such is the popularity of Melbourne Cup that here in New Zealand we love to join in the fun, even if we won’t actually be trackside. So grab your glad rags and start studying the form.
From Loobies With Love
Posted on
Romance Rules With Loobies Story
With Wendys Boutique bursting with new season stock, and glasses of bubbles clutched in the palms of ladies filled with anticipation, last Tuesday’s Loobies Story Evening was off to a flying start. Hosted by the brand’s Co-Owner and Designer Laurinda Sutcliffe, the night did not disappoint. Loobies Story is a label bursting with joy – in each exotic colour combination is the echo of a far-flung destination.
The White Stuff.
Posted on
How To Wear White This Season
There’s nothing that makes us feel quite as much as though warm weather is on its way, as when we start to pick out a few whites for our wardrobe. Wearing white is not an art form. It does, however, feel like a gloriously indulgent way to fly in the face of the practicalities demanded of a usual day. But there are ways to wear it that will minimize potential hazards, and ensure that you finish the day how you started, with a rebellious ‘devil may care’ attitude. The key is how to make white work for you, and the things to remember when wearing it.
Invest In The Best
Posted on
Staples That Are Worth Treating Yourself To
If you love to live by the mantra that less is more, then you’ll be one step ahead in the game of wardrobe staples. If you’re by nature a gatherer, it may be more of a learning curve. Whichever way you incline, there’s no doubt that the months ahead will be more stylish with certain pieces within easy reach inside your wardrobe.
Spring Style Guide Part 2
Posted on
Key Trends And How To Wear Them
Budding Fashion - Floral Prints Are In Vogue
The floral print is with us in many, many forms, from vintage to eclectic to downright zany, the flower definitely has the power. Overall fashion is joyful – colours cover the spectrum of bold to sugary as candy, but whatever the flavour they are lifting the mood sky-high. So jump aboard the fashion train and know that the ride will leave you feeling faaaabulous
Spring Style Guide Part 1
Posted on
How To Style Key Trends
Ease Into Spring With Fast Fashion.
Comfort fashion is like comfort food – you just can’t get enough of it. And when it comes to what’s trending for the new season, nothing makes the heart burst more than the looks that are going to feel fabulous and require minimum effort to style.
Sheer Designs
Posted on
What Lies Beneath – Sophisticated, Saucy, Sultry – You Choose.
It’s hard to actually put your finger on when the fashion world, or indeed New Zealand Fashion Designers, fell in love with the sheer look. We’ve certainly seen it in many forms, but it has undoubtedly evolved over this time. Admittedly when it first hit it was bordering on risqué in some cases, and unless you were happy mooching around town in effectively nothing more than your undies, it probably wasn’t for you.....
Spotlight on New Zealand Fashion Designer Paula Ryan - Part 2
Posted on
The Magic Is In The Fabric
New Zealand Fashion Designer Paula Ryan's catch phrase, The Magic Is In The Fabric, has to be right up there with the best when it comes to catchy-catch phrases. And the reason it resonates – well, because in my opinion it’s true.
When it comes to buying fashion, there are many things that polarize the fashionista. Of course there are times when we all want something cheap and cheerful, but when we want an investment piece, something to last, something that’s going to transcend faddy trends and still look good, then key factors are the cut of the garment, and - yes- absolutely, the fabric.
Spotlight On Paula Ryan- Part One
Posted on
1 comment
Iconic New Zealand Fashion Designer
Excitement was high last Tuesday Evening at Wendys Boutique, when an exclusive Paula Ryan event was held to showcase the new collection for Spring / Summer 2018. Vivien Josaia from Paula Ryan led this sneak preview, and the rack that she rolled in was literally spilling over with outfits that immediately had everyone in the room, between gulps of bubbles, oohing and aahing.
3 Key Trends This Season
Posted on
Get Up To Speed With The Latest Looks
There’s a lot of talk of ‘feel good fashion’ this season, and when you see what’s hitting the racks it’s easy to see why. These are clothes that are designed to party in; an abundance of embellishments from sparkles to tassels to feathers is sure to lift the mood, and when the fun stuff creeps into the staples as well, you know you’re in for a good time. Combine the frivolity with the stunning colour palettes and prints, and you know that no matter what else is happening, there’s going to be a good time in your wardrobe.
She’s The Business
Posted on
Dame Trelise Cooper’s Big Night Out
On Friday night, with just a little fanfare but a lot of sequins, Dame Trelise Cooper, iconic New Zealand Fashion Designer, was inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame. Supported by a bevvy of high achieving beauties –amongst them Wendy and Sally from Wendys Boutique, she humbly accepted the latest in an impressive line up of accolades.
Spring Has Sprung.
Posted on
INK And LAMB Labels Have Nailed The New Season
While the daffodils may be a little while off blooming, the same can’t be said for Designer Fashion for Spring, which is unfurling its beautiful petals on the racks of our favourite stores even as I write. Halleluiah! It’s a real joy to embrace the onset of a new season, and despite the fact that we still love being rugged up, the urge to start sniffing out the new season is strong. Very strong.
5 Style Tips For The Feel Good Fashionista
Posted on
Ways To Bring Out Your Best Features
The world of fashion is a glorious one, filled with frippery, fun and frivolous whimsy. Fashion is something that is essentially designed to make us feel wonderful, and of course to help us express ourselves and bring out the best in our bodies and features. I recently read an article based on the pet peeves of a fashion editor; it listed off people’s ‘mistakes’. Harsh, I thought, very harsh. There should be no right or wrong, we are individuals - so lets look at some handy fashion hints that will help enhance our good bits.
Spotlight On: TAYLOR
Posted on
Hot Off The Press
Taylor Brings Trans-Seasonal Dressing To Life
Fresh in for July is a range of stunning pieces from Taylor Boutique. Luxurious fashion that looks so stylish you could weep, the beautiful folds, drapes and flow of each piece come together in perfect synergy. Aimed to give the wearer an aura of effortless style, through a combination of inspired design and beautiful fabric choices, this has been achieved. The cherry on this confectioners delight of a cake is that all of this has been done right here in New Zealand.
Winter Wonderland
Posted on
Pick An Outfit That Suits Your Mood This Winter
There’s no getting away from the fact that when it comes to clothes black is a go-to colour choice for most people. It’s versatile, flattering, easy to mix and match - it certainly ticks an awful lot of boxes. Little wonder New Zealand fashion designers work wonders with it, whether they are creating something avant-garde or an everyday staple garment. Boutique brand Taylor has showcased some uber cool monochrome looks this season, and Paula Ryan can always be counted on for her range of black basics. However this season black is being up-styled, and lovers of the black ensemble will be thrilled with the monochrome looks that are hitting the streets. Black and white paired together has to be the ultimate in timeless, chic, all-season wear. By adding a splash of white the outfit is lifted immediately, and if you are someone that finds brilliant white a harsh colour to wear, maybe opt for a slightly creamy tone.
What A Load Of Pants
Posted on
From Dropped Crotch To Capri, It’s Time To Get Your Jig On
If there’s one thing that’s true in the whirl and glitz of the world of fashion, there are always many styles of each garment swirling around to choose from, and pants are no exception. The beauty of it is that there really is room in every fashion lovers’ wardrobe for more than one look. Like a pick and mix in the sweet section, don’t hold back - it’s always best to have a bit of everything.