Freelance fashion stylist Sarah Stuart has an eye for a timeless piece, particularly when it comes to New Zealand designers. She’s handpicked her top picks for spring 2026 exclusively for FQ – from styles designed to grace your wardrobe for years to come, to standout garments for special occasions as the festive season begins to ramp up. Love a piece but not sure if it’ll suit? Google’s new Try On feature is the perfect way to try before you buy, all without needing to head in store – just upload an image of yourself and the feature will virtually try it on you.
Reine – Carine Trench
A great trench is one of those pieces that can instantly pull an outfit together. I’ve owned this one for over two years and it’s still a piece I constantly reach for. The beautiful cut, proportions and tailoring make it one of those garments that elevates everything, along with guaranteed compliments. Designed and made in New Zealand by Fleur Clarke, Reine is known for its couture-inspired approach to tailoring, custom pieces and beautifully precise pattern cutting.
Rory William Docherty – Multi Tie Painter’s Shirt
Every good wardrobe needs a classic shirt… only this one is better. The iconic Painter’s Shirt, featuring knotted bows down the front and distinctive silhouette. One of the standout designers from Google Try On, Rory William Docherty saw a 30% increase in search interest. With international recognition including London Fashion Week, Rory has built a reputation for his artful approach to fashion, with the Painter’s Shirt becoming one of his signature pieces and a must-have as we head into spring.
Kowtow – Twist Jeans
Finding the perfect pair of jeans is no small feat, so when you find a flattering pair, you hold onto them. I selected these because the clever twist seam creates a beautiful shape through the leg, while the stretch waistband at the back gives that extra comfort we all appreciate. Founded by Gosia Piatek, and current designer is Dayne Johnson – Kowtow has become one of New Zealand’s most recognised fashion exports. The brand has built an international reputation for combining beautiful design with sustainability, using organic cotton, transparent supply chains and responsible production practices at the heart of its collections.
Carlson – Satin Lace Skirt
Lace was one of the standout searches from the season, and this skirt is such a beautiful way to wear the trend. The satin finish gives it a modern feel, while the lace detailing makes it a perfect trans-seasonal piece – one that works just as easily styled casually during the day or dressed up for evening. Tanya Carlson is one of New Zealand fashion’s most respected designers, with a career spanning decades and a signature approach to cut, drape and feminine dressing.
Adrion Atelier – Fitted Hybrid Puffer
This jacket is a perfect example of how a practical piece can become the statement. The sculptural silhouette, clever pattern making and rich chocolate tone transform the traditional puffer into something much more directional. Designed and made in New Zealand by Adrian Williams, Adrion Atelier is known for pushing the boundaries of pattern cutting, creating sculptural garments that feel like wearable architecture.
Ruby – Firebird Cowl Gown
There is a reason this silhouette continues to return season after season. The bias cut is one of fashion’s most flattering techniques – the fabric glides over the body, celebrates curves and creates beautiful movement. It’s one of those pieces that does the work for you. RUBY was one of the standout searched New Zealand fashion brands for the past 12 months according to Google search data, and it’s easy to see why. The brand has built a loyal following through its contemporary approach to femininity, distinctive silhouettes and sizing 4-24 means there’s something for everyone.
Beach Brains – Hold LS Pocket Shirt
The influence of the 90s and early 2000s is everywhere right now, and this layered tee is a great nod to that era. It captures the relaxed styling of the time while feeling fresh and wearable now. Founded by Dan Gosling and Gareth Heming, Beach Brains has built a cult following through its blend of surf culture, streetwear and nostalgic references.
Checks Downtown – Hakama Pants
These pants caught my eye because they bring a fresh perspective to tailoring. The oversized Hakama-inspired silhouette and charcoal pinstripe fabric give traditional suiting a more relaxed, contemporary attitude – perfect for anyone wanting to experiment with shape and proportion. Founded by Jordan Gibson, Checks Downtown has become known for its modern take on streetwear and tailoring, blending strong silhouettes with a distinctly New Zealand point of view.
Jojo Ross – Nightwarp Top
This top was a standout at the Google Try On launch event, adored for its fresh take on the return of early 2000s denim styling. The trompe-l’œil print cleverly creates the illusion of layered denim, giving that nostalgic Y2K feel while keeping the look modern and considered. Jojo Ross designs and produces her collections in New Zealand, with a reputation for reworking familiar fashion references through a contemporary lens. Her work has gained international recognition, including being featured in Vogue Italia’s 100 designers to watch.
Claudia Li – Double Pleated Pants
A beautifully cut trouser is one of the hardest-working pieces in a wardrobe. I selected these because the pleating creates beautiful movement and shape, giving a classic wardrobe staple a more directional feel. New Zealand-raised designer Claudia Li has built an international reputation through her approach to tailoring, presenting collections at NZ and New York Fashion Week and earning recognition for her distinctive silhouettes and craftsmanship.
