From new womenswear collections to trending styles for men, to a raft of handbags, accessories, shoes, sunglasses, exquisite jewellery and highly-collectable watches, the Coveted pages of our Spring Issue are full of everything to keep you feeling ahead of the style game this season. Here, we have rounded up all our hero pieces from the pages of our latest magazine in one, easy-to-shop edit, so that you can have the latest fashion at your fingertips, just in time for spring.
From the pages of our Spring Issue straight to your screens, our curated edit of the very best pieces of design are now at your fingertips. Featuring showstopping occasional chairs, lounge-worthy sofas, sleek bathware, refined lighting, essential outdoor additions (which should be ordered now in the lead-up to summer) and other covetable furnishings, this shoppable edit allows you to explore all the hero design pieces from our recently unveiled Spring Issue.
If you’ve been flicking through the glossy Wellbeing pages of our newly-released Spring Issue, we have rounded up all the products that might have caught your eye and included them in our curated, shopping edit below. From life-changing face oils to haircare that will give you long, luscious locks, to a concise line-up of makeup for a glowing visage, these are the hero wellness products from our Spring Issue.
If lines are a testament to a restaurant’s success, then there is none more successful than Auckland’s Eden Noodles. The 2022 Hospo Heroes winner of the Cheap & Cheerful category is a household name across Auckland, adored by those who appreciate the authentic art of hand-pulled noodles and the crafting of their famous and undeniably delectable dumplings.
With such a devoted following in the suburbs, it was only obvious then, that Eden Noodles would stake their claim in Auckland’s CBD. A new Commercial Bay outpost within Harbour Eats has fans already swarming for their flavourful fix. As legend has it, the staff at Eden Noodles have been known to handcraft thousands of dumplings today, and with lines already forming at the Commercial Bay spot, we hazard a guess that their daily dumpling output is set to increase dramatically.
If you are yet to try the wonder of Eden Noodles, consider this a sign to do so now. With an opening special that includes a limited-time ‘Super Mixed’ dumpling order, you have no excuse but to head to Commercial Bay and sample the goods for yourself. Start with the pork and chive dumplings in spicy sauce, and follow with the wide noodles in soup and dan dan sauce. Don’t forget to freshen your palate with a side of cucumber salad — you will not be disappointed.
As spring edges nearer and the sun emerges from behind the clouds, we are increasingly drawn to the waterfront, or more specifically, to one of our favourite Viaduct Harbour venues, Bivacco. Not only does Bivacco occupy the best corner site in the whole area, but it also offers the kinds of food and drinks that make after-work libations a very appealing prospect. And now, its clever culinary team are introducing a delicious new bite-and-beverage combo that is giving us even more of an excuse to knock off early and pull up a chair by the bar. Introducing Bivacco’s Mini Lobster Rolls and Tini Martinis.
Mini Lobster Rolls with Hendrick’s Gin Original Dry Martini
Created as a satiating (but not too heavy) snack, Bivacco’s Mini Lobster Rolls and Tini Martinis make for the perfect marriage — the rich, buttery flavours of the lobster offset by the crisp, botanical notes of the Hendrick’s Gin that makes up the base of the martinis. For the former, diners can expect small, pillowy-soft (and generously-buttered) buns, filled with chopped lobster meat, New England mayonnaise and an array of herbs and spices. While for the latter, guests are able to choose from three Tini Matini options, each offering a different expression of Hendrick’s Gin: Original, Neptunia and Lunar.
Left to Right: Hendrick’s Gin Original Dry Martini, Lunar Martini & Neptunia Martini
While the Original Dry Martini just sees the classic pairing of Hendrick’s Gin with Extra Dry Vermouth and Cournichon, the Neptunia Martini offers something distinctly different, where Hendrick’s Neptunia Gin (with its coastal flavours and seaside expression) is paired with prosecco, passionfruit and kaffir leaf. The Lunar Martini is another take still, where Hendrick’s Lunar Gin (a smooth and alluring drop boasting floral essences and notes of warm, heady spice) is combined with rhubarb, Martini Bianco and fennel frond.
Lobster Rolls & Hendrick’s Neptunia Martini
Able to be ordered at Bivacco’s bar as a pairing for $20 (or individually at $15 for the Lobster Roll and $10 for the Tini Martini) this new Mini Lobster Roll and Tini Martini combo promises to hit the spot every time, whether you’re just starting your evening, catching up with friends for a drink, or seeking a simple but delicious, after-work bite.
Yes, the weather might be grim out there, but there’s nothing like some beautiful new boots to put a bit of pep in your step. Designed to elevate any winter outfit, these chic and versatile styles will see you through the remainder of the season, promising to be as practical against wintry days as they are beautiful when layered with your favourite suit-pants, dresses, skirts and more. Without further ado, these are the boots to buy now.
While typically, flowers are favoured for special occasions, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and for cheering someone up who might be having a bad day, they are also just beautiful to have around the house — the best way to bring life to a space (particularly while the weather remains decidedly wintry). So, in the name of encouraging you to get out and pick up some fresh flowers for no other reason than to simply infuse your home with some fresh colour, we have rounded up the best florists in Auckland — you’re welcome.
Inspired by her passion for connecting with people and with nature, Hannah Low started Grace and Flora in 2017, and then, in 2021, moved her operation to the exquisite Faradays luxury department store. There, visitors will find Low’s exceptional arrangements at the entrance of the shop, filling the space with an air of colourful optimism. After all, Low’s bouquets are beloved for their big, bold presence and their sculptural shapes, and are perfectly suited to sit alongside the latest collections from the likes of Loewe, Celine and more.
Founded by Kelly Karam, who has been in the floristry business for over 20 years, Blush has become a household name for those in search of a luxurious bouquet or arrangement. The company imparts floral finesse to countless weddings and events, while also brightening up everyday occasions for customers from its retail store in Commercial Bay.
Inspired by the flower artisans of Paris’ Montmartre, Florist Millie Austin started La Femme Fleur nearly 10 years ago with a flower truck in Cox’s Bay. Now based in Remuera’s Bloodworth Park, Austin is continuing to build on her already-prolific reputation as a master of her art, creating eye-popping bouquets that play with exquisite colour combinations and high-quality blooms, always sourced fresh from growers and wrapped in La Femme Fleur’s decidedly chic (and unassuming) brown paper.
Helmed by Isabel Johnston and Lydia Reusser, Isadia is a floristry studio that creates arrangements that feel more akin to art than the typical bouquet. Known for their intuitive and naturalistic floral creations, this duo has built a name for the unique ways in which they fashion locally-sourced, seasonal flowers into unstructured but elegant ensembles. If you’re looking for something slightly out of the ordinary but utterly breathtaking, look no further.
Known for their unconventional approach, the team at The Botanist is well versed in creating floral arrangements that are perfectly balanced between wild and polished. From corporate to weddings and individual clients, there is no occasion that doesn’t benefit from The Botanist’s impressive and unique aesthetic.
Established in 1990, Flowers After Hours draws inspiration from the worlds of fashion and design to inform its stunning floral creations. From their colourful Parnell store, this team of talented florists lend their hands to an array of blooming beauties with the same degree of utmost passion every time.
As renowned for its striking wedding and event installations as it is for the more simple bouquets it creates out of its Ponsonby Central studio, Rose Tinted Flowers has long been a fixture on the Auckland florist scene. There, the team creates whimsical, sometimes surprising combinations that never fail to delight with their perfectly put-together palettes and eye-catching ensembles.
Kingsland-based Kensal Flower Studio was initially started out of the home of owner Liv Wakem, who, after demand quickly grew for her beautiful bouquets, opened her own studio space on the Kingsland high street (and has never looked back). There is a lovely femininity to Liv’s blooms and the careful way she assembles each bouquet, characterised by bright, uplifting colours and a kind of organised chaos that really draws the eye.
After setting up her own, dream operation in 2018, Georgie Malyon has made a name for herself as a florist with a particularly artistic and sculptural eye. Greenpoint’s bouquets stand out for their meticulous and moody arrangements, where bold colours and unique blooms are brought together in showstopping harmony.
Started by Brook Thompson, Brooklyn Flowers is one florist we know we can rely on if in need of a last-minute bouquet. Offering same-day and ‘urgent’ delivery options, this Ponsonby mainstay will endeavour to whip together a beautiful bouquet, even if you’ve left it to the very last minute (which, let’s be honest, happens a lot). Offering the kinds of flowers that really will brighten up someone’s day, Brooklyn has become a go-to of ours for a reason.
Specialising in flowers for corporate events and functions, although also known to deliver some seriously impressive bouquets too, when called on to do so, Flowers of Franklin is easily one of the best florists in Auckland and is highly sought-after for its creations that err on the side of subtle sophistication.
Creating whimsical and unique floral arrangements, Anna Dobson started Where Rosemary Grows after a life-long love for floristry. Now, she actually grows most of her own flowers in her small Auckland cutting garden and only sources when she has to from a select few local growers. Her beautiful blooms are grown without chemical sprays and only with natural fertilisers, and her aesthetic reflects the naturalism of her process — perfectly romantic for the day of love.
This florist has been a Parnell institution for well over 70 years. In fact, it is believed to be the oldest existing florist business in Auckland (and possibly, New Zealand). Having honed their craft over such a long and storied history, the tea, Cartier for Flowers certainly knows what they’re doing, whether it’s for a small, personal bouquet or a more significant event installation or wedding.
Offering a range of stunning, individually-created bouquets tailored to exactly what you might need, Vida Flores, helmed by Davina Prankerd, should be on everyone’s list of go-to florists. Its arrangements offer a slightly modern twist on traditional bouquets, with vibrant flowers that promise to brighten up anyone’s day.
Another name that specialises in wedding and event blooms (but shouldn’t be passed up for an individual bouquet, either) Floracentric is a contemporary floristry studio offering arrangements that are sleek and sophisticated while also feeling decidedly modern and grounded in the now, each artistically put together in what feels like a careful and purposeful way.
Known for her bouquets that are wild, and romantic and that truly showcase the beauty of each, individual flower, Nina Powierza has been working in this industry for over 30 years — and her expertise shows. Nina for Flowers is one of Auckland’s most beloved florists for its blooms that promise to turn heads and brighten any room.
Over the last year, there has been a raft of utterly indulgent (and highly popular) burger pop-ups that have taken Auckland’s dining scene by storm. Characterised by their nature of only being on for a good time, not a long one (and drawing frenzied crowds as a result) there’s a new burger offering in town that is taking a more permanent approach (thank goodness). Benny The Jet is the latest concept out of the kitchen of the ever-popular Williams Eatery, set to kick off tonight and run every Friday for the foreseeable future.
Benny The Jet was conceived as a no-fuss, burger pop-up, with Williams’ Founder Charles Williams telling me, the intention was simply to make really, really good burgers, “the best burger we possibly can,” he says. “With that in mind, only one burger [a cheeseburger] is on the menu.” Here, the burgers feature succulent, beef-brisket patties, layers of gooey, melty cheese and a few obligatory pickles. (Vegetarians needn’t worry, you will have the option of replacing the brisket patty with an Impossible one.)
The Cheeseburger
It’s not just a one-off, either. Williams explains that burger night will take place every Friday for the foreseeable future, accompanied by art exhibitions and live jazz — the latter inspired by the torch the owners still hold for places like Golden Dawn. Auckland jazz maestros Joe Kaptein and Finn Scholes will regularly appear, with plenty more to join as the days get longer and we roll into summer.
With Benny The Jet, they’ve also seized the opportunity to work with their longtime friend Petra Leary to produce an exhibition of her most recent coveted drone photography works around the store, all of which will be available for purchase and on display for the foreseeable future.
And if you’re not after a burger (you’re probably in the wrong place), Williams tells me that a couple of extra sides include ‘bougie’ chicken nuggets and plenty of desserts to go around too. His advice is to come hungry. Basically, it’s burgers, art and jazz from 4pm every Friday — sounds like knock-off plans are sorted.
Few brands capture the imagination of global ‘It’ girls like Celine. From its storied history to its renowned designer tenures to the way it evokes that effortlessly chic French style, Celine is the brand on everyone’s lips. Now, Celine has landed exclusively at Faradays (to shop in-store only) with its sought-after womenswear collection available to us here for the first time, alongside coveted bags, accessories and more.
When Hedi Slimane took the reins of Celine as its creative, artistic and image director, the historic brand was riding high on the legacy of his predecessor, the inimitable Phoebe Philo. Philo’s cult-followed contemporary womenswear balanced sleek, feminine silhouettes with wearable functionality in a way that really hadn’t been done before, and had crowned Celine the darling of fashion week, season after season.
But Slimane, being something of an iconoclast, kicked off his tenure at the brand with a bold reimagining. First, he returned the brand’s logo to a slightly modernised version of its original 1960s form by axing the accent. And he added menswear to the line-up, which was music to the ears of those who had followed Slimane’s pioneering career (from Yves Saint Laurent to Dior Homme, where the ‘Slimane Silhouette’ was born). His vision for Celine was androgynous and distinctly rock ‘n’ roll, but it was also a return to the brand’s origins and an indication of the understated elegance and timelessness that would sit at the heart of every collection. It is the execution of this vision that has, over the last few years, seen Celine grow so exponentially.
Slimane also (crucially) introduced two new bags that quickly ascended to house icon status — the Celine Triomphe (characterised by its insignia that looks like a double ‘C’ but that is actually taken from the chain that surrounds the Arc de Triomphe in Paris) and The 16 Bag, named after Celine’s Paris headquarters. Quickly canonised as bona fide ‘It’ pieces, each design saw Slimane temper chic, Parisian timelessness with just the right amount of distinctive branding, allowing anyone who carried them to feel as though they were part of an exclusive club — or, like one of the cool kids (a demographic over which Slimane has long presided).
Slimane’s initial changes at Celine ruffled feathers and drew criticism from those who saw his vision as a regression for the brand, but in time, his bold moves paid off. Now, Celine is more popular than ever, with its sales after Slimane’s recent AW23 show at The Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles demonstrating how the brand has more than tripled its revenue since the designer took over (recently surpassing the two billion-Euro mark). And while Celine is certainly the brand of the moment, the clever ways in which its growth has been guided by Slimane has seen it retain and even evolve its luxury cachet.
Now, for the first time ever, Celine’s full womenswear offering of handbags, small leather goods, accessories, shoes and ready to wear will be available in New Zealand, exclusively from Faradays. It is a coup for the luxury, Parnell-based department store, who is adding Celine to an already-impressive stable of brands, including other LVMH favourites Loewe and Givenchy, as well as Alaïa, Gianvito Rossi and Alexandre Vauthier.
Celine at Faradays
The first buy will comprise womenswear pieces from Celine’s aforementioned AW23 collection Age of Indieness, shown at The Wiltern. There, Slimane paid homage to the indie movement of the early aughts, announcing its timely revival by melding his recognisable, glam-rock aesthetic with an effortlessly youthful but meticulously crafted vibe. It was indie-sleaze meets Celine heritage meets high-octane, 70s, LA glamour, all wrapped up with Slimane’s signature, nonchalant excellence. And as much as it was nostalgia (from the skinny jeans to the low-slung belts and layered waistcoats), it was also decidedly grounded in the now, marrying the kind of low-maintenance elegance we expect from the French with the kind of unapologetic luxury we associate with Los Angeles. Ultimately, it offered a contemporary uniform for cool girls who can throw on anything, and built on the brand’s already-significant reputation.
For Faradays’ Creative Director, Constance von Dadelszen, being the first in the country to offer Celine ready-to-wear is the realisation of a long-held dream. “As a lover of Celine from a young age, I was familiar with the backstory of the house and then became a customer during the famed Phoebe Philo era,” she explains. “There was a huge emphasis on our physical space when Celine was scoping Faradays as a potential partner, and we feel very humbled to have made the cut,” she says, crediting her store’s multi-award-winning, architecturally-stunning fit-out as part of the reason why Celine saw Faradays as the perfect home for the brand’s precious ready-to-wear. If you ask von Dadelszen, Slimane’s takeover has been a triumph for Celine, his unpretentious take on luxury ironically making his pieces more sought-after on the high-end market than ever. “Celine has incredibly strong iconography that hasn’t been thoroughly explored stylistically in the decades before Hedi arrived,” she tells me. “He has such a strength in this area… he takes elements from a brand’s archives, reimagines them and makes them deeply desirable.”
Celine at Faradays
Having just landed at Faradays, von Dadelszen’s first Celine buy was about marrying the brand’s core, signature styles with a few surprises. “Clients will find a wide range in store,” she explains, “from casual T-shirts, caps and sneakers through to fine evening attire.”
“Even though it’s a fashion house that brings out multiple collections a year, nothing is overly ‘trendy’”, von Dadelszen continues. “You’ll buy a piece of Celine and you’ll wear it, rather than it wearing you, and you’ll notice yourself returning to it season after season, year after year. The logos whisper, rather than roar, which is hard to achieve in the luxury industry, and the quality is deserving of the price tag.”
There is no reason why men should spend less time on their grooming regimens than women do and there are a raft of products specifically targeted at men that prove it. From those designed to deliver a glowing visage, to must-haves for meticulous beard maintenance, these essential products should be on your bathroom shelf.
Skincare
Elevate your daily grooming game with a single powerhouse product that brightens, resurfaces, renews, tightens, evens out and protects your complexion. These clean and high-performance formulas are specifically crafted to optimise your bathroom routine while delivering outstanding results.
Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum from Spring Store
Tools
Not only does LED light therapy offer cosmetic benefits, but it has also been shown to positively impact your mood, stress levels and sleep quality. The red light promotes collagen production, the near-infrared light stimulates cellular healing, and the blue light destroys acne-causing bacteria, all essential for a better life. Whether you’re looking for something discreet to pop in your dopp, a full face mask that can untertake the ritual in just minutes, or an all-in-one tool that brings in massage therapy too, these are the go-to tools of the moment.
Regardless of your grooming style, these formulas will condition and moisturise your hairs while providing a subtle definition and a shiny finish, while this luxurious shaving set is an upgrade that every bathroom needs.
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