1. Take it slow
Local design store SLOW is bringing their Scandi-cool wares to Auckland’s Grey Lynn suburb this month, with the opening of their new showroom on Westmoreland Road. Interior designer and SLOW Founder Martina Blanchard has personally designed the space, drawing inspiration from the mosaic artist Samir Mazer who is known for his affinity for geometric shapes. Like the name suggests, the goal for SLOW is to showcase a relaxed, slower pace of life by stocking brands which uphold its ethical and conscious values. “I strive to create environments that people would feel comfortable to live in, to spend time in and feel welcomed into,” says Blanchard. “I always choose products produced in the best possible way, that will age beautifully over time.” The new showroom will carry all SLOW hero brands, including Sarah Ellison and Ferm Living, and new brands such as Melbourne-based Tribe Home and Oslo-based SØKTAS.
SLOW opens on the 19th of April at The Scrap Yard, 18 Westmoreland West, Grey Lynn, Auckland.
2. Fighting fit
Get going in good form this autumn with ‘On the Move’, the newest activewear collection from Glassons. The campaign, shot in New York’s iconic Central Park, features an assortment of minimalist heritage sporty styles that have us feeling inspired to hit the pavement. Harnessing a palette of moody hues interspersed with pops of pastel, the collection features everything from classic bike shorts and tanks to Y2K-style flared yoga pants. To combat the autumn chill are an array of cosy sweaters, windbreakers and puffer vests — all of which can be layered atop your favourite activewear set. So whether it’s a morning pilates class or a high-intensity HIIT session you’re heading to, these fresh finds will have you looking and feeling the part.
Shop ‘On the Move’ in store and online now.
3. Carried away
Whether it’s a ludicrously capacious bag (à la Succession) or a pint-sized party bag you’re in need of, local label Yu Mei has it all. As practical as they are pretty, the brand’s latest collection lays its focus on rich seasonal hues, with espresso brown, apricot, and martini green making welcome appearances throughout the range. Joining evergreen styles like the ‘Braidy’ and ‘Antonia’ bag are several new silhouettes this season — the ‘Wellington Weekender’ — a large travel duffle which pays tribute to the brand’s home city, and the ‘Emma’ bag, a small cassette silhouette featuring a cross-body strap and double front pockets. Built to last and to cherish forever, the collection — like all those from the brand— is made from Yu Mei’s renowned New Zealand deer nappa and croc-embossed hides, and premium, buttery lambskin.
The collection is available to shop in Yu Mei Lounges from 11th April, at select Yu Mei retailers, and online at yumeibrand.com
4. Flower power
In an ongoing effort to reduce the amount of waste they produce, Pōneke-based brand Twenty-Seven Names has introduced two special new styles cut from the very last metres of their favourite archival textiles. Playfully named the ‘Existential’ blouse and the ‘Future’ dress, each of the garments is made with a combination of deadstock floral prints from past seasons, allowing the brand to curtail waste and prevent fabrics from languishing in landfills. And while we’ve been taught not to mix prints, these limited-edition styles make a compelling case for breaking the rules and having a bit of fun.
Shop both styles in store and online now.
5. Link up
Since launching their own permanent jewellery service ‘forEVER’ late last year, local jewellery brand SOPHIE has seen back to back bookings at their Auckland-based showroom. This month, the brand is bringing the experience more central with the launch of a limited-edition pop-up in Westfield Newmarket from April 15th – 28th. The ideal gift to mark a milestone or pay tribute to a special bond, you can choose between a bracelet or anklet, in sterling silver, 14kt gold fill or 9kt solid gold chain and have it safely soldered to the wrist to form an enduring loop. In case you needed more incentive to visit, to celebrate the pop-up, SOPHIE is giving free permanent bracelets to the first six people to visit on Monday 15th April. Bookings are essential and can be made online now. Pricing for permanent pieces starts from $68, though there will be a curated range of the brand’s most popular products to shop also.
The pop-up will be at Westfield Newmarket, 277 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland, Level 2, opposite Stylerunner. Monday 15th April to Sunday 28th April. Bookings can be made here.
Hours:
Mon-Wed 9.15am to 6.30pm, Thurs-Fri 9.15am to 8.30pm, Sat 9.15am to 6.30pm, Sun 10.15am to 6.30pm
