1. Tailor made
Every woman’s wardrobe needs a timeless LBD and a well-made blazer, which is exactly what Maggie Marilyn has delivered with her latest collection, Fine Tailoring. Crafted in direct response to customer demand for more high-end occasion wear, founder Maggie Hewitt designed a small but considered range of monochrome pieces that will last the test of time. Available online and in the brand’s homes now, you can find the perfect tailored mini dress or tuxedo trouser amongst the line up — suitable for the likes of Sunday dinners, courthouse weddings and date nights.
2. Small acts
In a heartwarming effort to give back, local accessory and apparel brand SOPHIE has launched a new Community Pillar Initiative that gives free items to those in need. Rooted in the belief that even the smallest acts can offer comfort and hope, the initiative means that anyone will be able to request free items from the SOPHIE website, only needing to cover postage costs. There is no strict criterion for requesting these items, only that the pieces must be used for a good cause. “Through small acts of kindness, ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact – whether it’s rallying around someone who has fallen on hard times, raising money for essential needs, or supporting various charitable events,” says SOPHIE founder, Belinda Cannon. Those who order items through the gifting initiative are encouraged to share their stories in the notes section when making their requests, explaining their fundraising or gifting efforts.
3. Hold firm
This week, ManukaRx has welcomed the Firming Range to its natural skincare offering, a three-product collection comprising a Serum, Body Lotion and Neck Cream. Designed for those who favour efficacious yet gentle products, the new range contains both mānuka oil and mānuka honey, which are known for their hydrating, healing and antioxidant properties. With the addition of coffee bean extract, hyaluronic acid, paracress and retinal, those seeking a dose of anti-ageing will also benefit from incorporating these products .“We chose retinal because it’s a Vitamin-A derivative like retinol, but it acts faster on the skin and is more gentle,” explains ManukaRx in-house Cosmetic Chemist Consultant, Merve Samur. Helping to boost hydration and radiance, and smooth texture, this is one skincare trio we’ll be keeping close for the remainder of winter.
4. Fine line
Marking 25 years since the brand’s inception, Taylor has welcomed its latest collection, Tensegrity — an homage to the structured and geometric aesthetic that the brand has become known for. Drawing inspiration from contemporary American sculptor Kenneth Snelson and his innovative works on Tensegrity (floating compression), Taylor cleverly integrates this concept throughout the collection, featuring pieces such as a classic tee cut on an angle and a dress with individual string detailing. Like all of Taylor’s collections, the range juggles maximalism with minimalism, livening up their signature monochromatic palette with hues of burnt orange and forest green.
5. Fit for a cause
If you’ve been wanting to try out Tāmaki Makaurau’s newest movement and wellness offering, Mode Studio, then consider this your sign to do so. Partnering with Lululemon Ponsonby, the studio has just launched a quarterly Koha Open Day Initiative, giving everyone the chance to experience their signature group training style for a Koha entry donation. The first Koha Day is raising donations for North Harbour Hospice, an organisation close to owner Samantha Bluemel’s heart: “Mode Studio was conceptualised following the death of my mum, who passed away after two and half years battling breast cancer,” she says. “There were a few final weeks before the end where the burden of caring for her was lifted by the angels at North Harbour Hospice. The level of care they provide not just the gravely ill, but their family and loved ones, is awe-inspiring.” Taking place this Saturday the 27th of July, the series will kick off a ‘Guilty Pleasures’ themed DJ set, with three classes on offer that combine treadmill cardio with expertly programmed strength training. In case you need more incentive to visit, there will be Daily Bread treats, Allpress coffee, Almighty drinks, and special surprises from Lululemon on the cards, too.
Open Day guests can register and book for Koha Open Day classes via the Mode Studio app for free. A minimum $5 Koha donation is required on the day in support of North Harbour Hospice.
