1. Raise a glass
Nothing says spring like an al fresco long lunch, and thanks to Andiamo’s newest offering, you can do exactly that. This year, the Herne Bay institution has partnered with Perrier-Jouët to offer a limited-edition set menu with an assortment of seasonal treats. For six weeks from September 20th, guests who visit the restaurant during lunch hours will be able to indulge in two courses of their choosing accompanied by a flute of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut. Curated specially by executive chef Gavin Doyle, you can take your pick between the market fish crudo or the broad bean hummus bruschetta for entrée (we sampled both and they were divine); and the market fish or parsley butter risotto primavera for your main. And if you’re still feeling peckish after your meal, one of Andiamo’s signature tiramisus will surely go down a treat. So, if you find yourself in Auckland this spring, be certain to book now.
Andiamo’s Perrier-Jouët menu runs from 20 September – 31 October, Wednesday – Sunday only, 12pm – 3pm for $69 per person. Bookings can be made here.
2. Throwing shade
It’s getting to that time of year where investing in a quality pair of sunglasses becomes a top priority. When choosing a pair, we always err towards chic and timeless silhouettes, which is exactly what Ahlem have delivered in their newest collection for FW23. After years living between fashion capitals, founder Ahlem Manai-Platt was inspired to create the collection after moving back to her native Paris. Using horizontal lines throughout the frames to convey the newfound continuity and certainty in her life, Manai-Platt also quoted the routine of Parisian life as a key inspiration for the collection’s elegant and effortless aesthetic.
FW23 is available at ahlemeyewear.com now.
3. Crisp and creamy
If, like us, you’re sad that you didn’t make it to Europe for summer – fear not – Mina’s newest collection will transport you right there. Inspired by founder Natalie Procter’s recent travels to the Mediterranean coast, the spring collection features an assortment of dreamy monochromatic hues and textures, punctuated by pops of shamrock green and bold botanicals. Crafted from mainly linens and cottons, each piece makes for effortless dressing thanks to their free-flowing, relaxed silhouettes. Our top pick? The Bloom dress – which will no doubt become a sartorial staple come summer.
The spring collection is available in Mina’s Grey Lynn store now or online at minaforher.com
4. Thoughtful trinkets
This week marks Mental Health Awareness Week in Aotearoa, and for many Kiwis, like SOPHIE Store founder Belinda Cannon, it’s an important time to reflect and give to a worthy cause. Contributing to mental health awareness has always been a priority for Cannon and her brand, and this year she will be showing her support through SOHIE Store by donating a portion of the profits from the brand’s ‘Choose Your Letter’ jewellery towards the Voices of Hope charity for the month of September. Perfect gifts for yourself or someone special, Sophie is offering bracelets and necklaces which can be customised through the choice of metal and pendant lettering to spell out a word or set of initials that can serve as a reminder of inner strength and resilience.
Shop the Choose Your Letter collection here, and find out more about Voices of Hope at thevoicesofhope.org
5. In full bloom
Nothing brightens our space at home quite like a fresh bouquet of flowers. We’ve always been a fan of Isadia’s sculptural arrangements, and their newest collaboration is no exception. For a limited time, the studio is joining forces with Auckland-based ceramicist Humphrey Tait to offer Japanese ikebana-style vase arrangements at home. Crafted from mid-fired stoneware clay, each vase is finished with a matte, speckled glaze and comes as part of a thoughtfully curated ikebana set, complete with a medium kenzan and floral tack. Fusing the natural and minimal forms, these arrangements make for delightful centrepieces or colourful accents in any space.
Kits are available via isadia.co.nz or humphreytait.com and can be purchased alone for $199, or with flowers for $230.
