We’ve said it once but we’ll say it again, there is nothing quite like the experience of settling into Faraday’s Bar for a delicious bite and something to drink — particularly after a day of shopping. Nestled along one side of the luxury department store, Faradays, in Parnell, this dining destination is the epitome of elegance, from its exquisite table settings and impeccable service to its carefully-considered menu and impressive wine list.
Now, Faraday’s Bar is launching a new seasonal menu, created in collaboration with renowned private chef, Anthony Price which will be available from Thursday to Sunday. Here, diners will find an array of mouth-watering dishes all of which showcase the freshest ingredients, underpinned by delicate Japanese flavours. Handily, everything on the menu is gluten-free, and most are dairy-free too.
For those seeking the full experience, we recommend booking at least 24 hours ahead to be able to partake in options like the Temaki Box (allowing you to roll your own sushi), the Nigiri Boat (with tamagoyaki) and the exceptional Hibachi Grilled Scotch Fillet (served with truffle tarragon wagyu-fat-mayo and togarashi kewpie).
That said, even if you decide to drop in on a whim, there are plenty of delectable a la carte options on this menu too. Think sushi rolls with spicy tuna, fresh salmon or just avocado, tataki dishes with either Angus pure eye fillet beef or peppered venison — both served with truffle frites and tsuyu dressing. There is also an unforgettable kingfish ceviche with togarashi spice, coconut and lime and yuzu cucumber.
Ensuring that every meal here ends on a high note, two new desserts have been added to wrap up the offering perfectly. Chocolate fiends will find comfort in the Dark Chocolate Delice, served with either mandarin or raspberry on an almond base. While those seeking something a little more fruity will delight in the Clafoutis Dessert with yuzu fromage.
In addition, Faraday’s Bar is introducing a rotating Champagne cocktail of the month, kicking off with the new Faradays 75. A take on the classic French 75 cocktail, this tasty tipple is made with Veuve Clicquot, Roku gin and fresh lemon, and will sit alongside Faraday’s Bar’s comprehensive wine menu, with an offering that spans lauded drops from the finest makers in New Zealand and Europe.
Only available from Thursday to Sunday, this new menu will run in conjunction with Faraday’s Bar’s classic Kitchen Menu, available from Tuesday to Friday, on which you will find an array of delectable seasonal dishes like market fish crudo, burrata with heirloom tomatoes and wood-fired bread with honeycomb, whipped goats cheese and truffle oil.
Whatever your proclivity, there’s no denying that Faraday’s Bar is cementing its reputation as one of the best places to dine in Auckland, as perfect for a quick meal or drinks with friends as it is for a longer, drawn-out lunch. And if you are yet to try the offering, this exceptional new menu is the only excuse you need.
Set on a sunny corner of Jervois Road is a beautiful new haven for health. Liquid Lightning is the brainchild of naturopath Grace Miller and Jane Wilson (a wellness entrepreneur who established the Exercise Room in 2004 as the first luxury gym in New Zealand) and has opened as the perfect place for those seeking to kick-start their day, boost their mood or find a place to escape for a moment of peace. Here, between raw stone bench tops and lilac floors, punters will find cabinets lined with fresh-pressed juices, a menu of nutrient-dense smoothies and coolers dosed with adaptogens, fresh coffee and an array of natural health products and supplements.
“I wanted to create a space where the people could start making their health a habit, and an important part of their daily routine,” Miller explains, going on to tell me that what really sets Liquid Lightning apart, is its focus on functional health, grounded in proven wellness practices. “There is no skimping on ingredients here,” she emphasises. “Every drink on our menu is made with medicinal doses of supplements and adaptogens to offer a real, noticeable effect on mood and overall health.” Indeed, Miller is working to prove the true power of natural, food-based remedies when prepared by someone who knows what they’re doing. The drinks at Liquid Lightning, whether you opt for a juice, a smoothie or something else, not only promise to boost mood and make you feel physically better but are making it easier than ever to prioritise your health and lay some good foundations for the year ahead.
In Liquid Lightning’s large juice fridge, you will find options like the ’04’, made with pineapple, cucumber, jalapeño, ginger, lemon and mint, designed to help with regularity, enhance enzymes and give an endorphin boost. The ’07’ is another standout, made with blueberry, apple, basil and tulsi to deliver a strong dose of antioxidants and help with muscle recovery and emotional balance. Those seeking a serious hit of greens will find it in the ’03’, where cos, celery, spinach, parsley, fennel and lime make for a mineral-rich concoction that will cleanse the kidneys and give a burst of phytonutrients.
There is also a menu of satiating smoothies for those seeking something more substantial. Made to order and packed with functional doses of supplements and fresh ingredients, these drinks offer a healthy pick-me-up to cure any craving. The Morning Glory, for instance, will start any day with a bang thanks to its potent combination of cold brew coffee, cacao, MCT oil, coconut milk, a medicinal mushroom blend, vanilla, cinnamon, dates, tocos, and a touch of chai spice. This particular combination harnesses healthy fats to deliver sustained energy throughout the day, as well as fibre to support bone health and subtle spices to soothe digestion and balance blood sugar. Tocos are rice bran solubles that are very high in vitamin E and work to protect and nourish the skin.
Elsewhere, the Glow Up smoothie is an anti-inflammatory concoction that is said to bolster the immune system thanks to its combination of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, bananas, goji berries, coconut oil, marine collagen, l-glutamine and buckwheat crackle. It is said to be able to help with eye and skin health thanks to the powerful antioxidants delivered by the berries and the gut-soothing and microbiome-boosting benefits of l-glutamine.
Liquid Lightning’s menu also features a raft of Iced Coolers, each designed as a refreshing thirst quencher, packed with adaptogens. For those unfamiliar, an adaptogen refers to certain foods, mushrooms, herbs and plants that both protect the body and help it heal from the effects of stress (the root cause of numerous ailments). They are considered nature’s antibiotics and are some of the most effective remedies against illnesses.
If you’re feeling low, opt for the Adrenal Cocktail, made with fresh orange juice, coconut water, ocean minerals, rhodiola and sea salt. Rhodiola is a traditional Chinese medicine known for its fortifying properties. When ingested, it can encourage endurance, combat fatigue, lower cortisol and increase cardiovascular function. The inclusion of sea salt also makes this drink deeply hydrating and encourages better blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body.
Alternatively, the Island Time cooler is perfect for those seeking a skin boost. It is made with pineapple, cucumber, mint and sparkling water and is packed with marine collagen — the key ingredient in achieving a glowing visage.
Other adaptogenic benefits can be garnered from Liquid Lightning’s coffee offering, where iced lattes are laced with a range of supplements to deliver an added boost to your morning Joe. The Sesame Sunrise offers a delicious twist in the form of cold brew coffee combined with tahini, black sesame and shatavari (an energising adaptogen known for delivering radiant skin and hair and supporting women’s hormonal health), whereas the Too Matcha sees a classic matcha latte bolstered with coconut butter.
Alongside all the delicious drinks, Miller explains that there will also be Supreme Coffee on filter, a selection of salads and small bites and a line-up of high-quality, practitioner-only supplements and health products for those who want to continue their health journey at home. We hear that there will also be a raft of juice and drink subscription offerings coming in the near future, which will be designed to help you address specific health concerns from the comfort of your home. (Watch this space.)
Drawing us in with its beautiful fit-out and keeping us there with its nutritious beverages, Liquid Lightning is the perfect place to recharge, relax and rediscover your sense of wellbeing. Here, health has been bottled, and for once we’re buying into the hype.
Liquid Lightening has now closed its Jervois Road store.
New York’s most recent Fashion Week reminded us that even amid uncertainty, there is always beauty in looking ahead. Runways were set against grand architectural backdrops (from the New York Public Library to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum), and designers revealed ready-to-wear collections with just the right balance of drama and sensibility. With garments abundant in luxurious fabrics, captivating colours and sleek shapes, read on to discover five key, highly-wearable style trends for Fall 2023.
Trend one: Dramatic hemlines
From left: Rodarte, Rodarte, Carolina Herrera, Tory Burch.
There was no shortage of long, flowy, and dramatic hemlines on the runway in all colours of the rainbow. However, it was classic black that left a lasting impression, especially through sheer yet tasteful or gleaming fabrications, paired with a chic boot or pump heel.
Trend two: Striking greens
From left: Ulla Johnson, Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera, Brandon Maxwell.
From deep emeralds to earthy olive tones, striking greens proved just how perfect they were for making a beautifully bright statement, whether in the form of an evening gown or incorporated into everyday attire.
Trend three: Luxurious leather
From left: Brandon Maxwell, Ulla Johnson, Proenza Schouler, Simkhai.
Leather trench coats, high-waisted maxi skirts and cropped garments exuded a contemporary vibe, taking classic staples to new heights and exemplifying trans-seasonal dressing at its finest. Some pieces went so far as to feature shearling accents, offering a more grounded, cosy feel.
Trend four: Exquisite embellishments
From left: Rodarte, Carolina Herrera, Rodarte, Carolina Herrera.
Through considered colourways and sophisticated silhouettes, a grown-up, romantic form of dopamine dressing was displayed through sparkles, embellishments and floral motifs, inspiring us to reconsider our party dressing — and perhaps even our workwear ensembles.
Trend five: Timeless tailoring
From left: Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera, Simkhai, Tory Burch.
Tailoring adopted a relaxed approach, with oversized fits cinched at the waist with a belt for good measure. Relaxed trousers were perfectly balanced with structured blazers, and monochrome hues endured.
With the last of New York’s Fashion Week showings ending this week, the new Fall collections showing over the rest of fashion month promise to be nothing short of magnificent. After all, fashion’s beauty is found in its resplendent ability to reinvent our wardrobes and transform our moods, season after season.
In the wake of his father, John Croucher’s, passing in 2021, artist Luke Jacomb returned to the ideas that the two of them had explored in their first collaborative exhibition in 2019 — ‘Alembics and Cucubitas: A New Glass Vernacular’. It was an exploration of alchemy and glass science, themes which Jacomb is now revisiting and weaving into new forms for his latest collection, Mercurio, exhibiting at Masterworks Gallery from this Saturday. The vibrant colours and larger scale of these works not only reflect Jacomb’s emotional journey through the grief of loss, but they speak to his personal growth, too. For the artist, revisiting the alembics is a way to reconnect with his father, see him in every piece, and forge a connection that spans the past, present and future.
Left to right: Chariot of Selene, Helios Rides.
Jacomb created Mercurio’s works in Seattle, the current centre for glass art in North America, where he enlisted the help of fellow glass artist and friend Dan Friday, a Seattle native and member of the Lummi Nation, giving the works an unusual provenance. Seattle holds a special place in the artist’s heart, having lived and worked there as both a production and fine artist, forging lasting friendships along the way.
Left to right: Courtship of Persephone, Muse of Apollo.
Mercurio takes its name from the Italian word for Mercury, a substance prized for its unusual chemical properties, and the Roman name for Hermes, the patron god of alchemists. With roots in Egypt and Islam, alchemy was grounded in the idea of transmutation — the process of turning base metals into gold and silver. The creation of gold ruby glass for instance (something that can be seen in this exhibition), relied on the discovery of how to dissolve gold using Aqua Regia. For this, tin metal was added to produce Purple of Cassius, a key ingredient in introducing gold into the glass melt and creating a striking ruby colour.
Left to right: The Eye of Horus, Ra’s Nile.
Glass, with its unique combination of fragility and durability, has retained its magical appeal in the modern age. It is a material that permeates every aspect of our lives, from the most petite water glass to the grandest stained-glass windows of Notre Dame. And while the process of creating coloured glasses may be more scientifically viable today than it was several thousand years ago, it remains no less visually arresting and mystical in its ability to enchant us.
The Lukeke Design Deflated Lamp/Pendant. Photograph for www.karakter.co.nz by Sena Akpalu.
In celebration of the new exhibition, showcased at Masterworks Gallery between Saturday the 18th of February and Saturday the 18th of March, we are giving one lucky Denizen the chance to win a coveted Lukeke Design Deflated Lamp/Pendant in the colour of their choosing (as seen here). To enter, simply click here, or enter your details below.
At-home beauty tech is about the best way to take your skincare routine to a whole new level. From wands to amp-up the effects of serums, to lights designed to smooth out fine lines, these helpful beauty tech tools are utterly essential for any skincare routine (and will make a real difference).
Shani Darden Facial Sculpting Wand Drawing on the philosophies of her facials that have amassed a cult following, aesthetician Shani Darden’s Facial Sculpting Wand offers the same vibration therapy she uses to firm and contour the complexions of her celebrity clientele. In as little as a week, wrinkles appear smaller and skin more supple, earning the sleek sculpting wand a well-deserved place on our beauty essentials list.
SolaWave Red Therapy Designed to be super convenient without compromising on quality, SolaWave’s Red Therapy Skincare Wand acts as both a gua sha and a light therapy device to depuff and energise skin on the fly. Slim and chic, it will easily fit into any cosmetics pouch for necessary travel and midday touch-ups.
Nurse Jamie Super-Cryo Massaging Orb This revolutionary new body and face duo combines the simplicity of cryotherapy with the indulgence of massage. Intended to be stored in the freezer, then worked across the face, these beauty tech tools invite a new kind of ritual that improves circulation and releases tension; both key elements for an eternal glow. www.net-a-porter.com
Vanity Planet’s Hot and Cold Smart Facial Steamer Best compared to a contrast therapy session for your face, this sink-side steamer manipulates the pores to allow for potent product penetration and moisture retention and eliminates any bacteria concealed underneath the skin barrier. In the thick of summer, it offers an utterly refreshing mist of cool air, too.
TheraFace Pro Marrying all of our most sworn-by skincare devices is the TheraFace Pro — soon to officially launch in New Zealand. Combining the cleansing action of a Foreo, the microcurrents of a NuFace and the LED light of a Déesse Pro, alongside TheraGun’s signature massage function, it is a simple tool to combat all manner of skin sins. Simply swap out the heads to create your own bespoke beauty ritual.
At Azabu Mission Bay, the essence of Japanese culinary heritage meets contemporary elegance. And now, as the restaurant welcomes its new world-class chef Darren Johnson, diners are in for a compelling new experience. Johnson brings a robatayaki-style approach to cooking, an ancient technique of fireside cooking over a charcoal grill, poised to elevate Azabu’s offering even further.
Spending over half of his career honing his skills over a robata grill, Johnson is a seasoned expert in this art. Cooking over charcoal imbues dishes with an almost primal BBQ flavour, and controlling the fire and adjusting the height of the cooking is a delicate balancing act that requires discipline, focus, and precision. As Johnson tells me, a kitchen without a robata grill is almost unfamiliar to him, and the flavour imparted by charcoal is unmatched.
With the unique flavours of expertly prepared meats, seafood and vegetables cooked to perfection over live fire, Azabu’s indulgent menu will showcase this traditional cooking method and offer diners an authentic taste of Japanese culture — anyone who’s tasted the results will guarantee the payoff is worth it.
Situated in an iconic spot by the water, Azabu Mission Bay is truly a hub for Japanese cuisine with a modern touch. The restaurant strongly emphasises fresh ingredients, high-quality products, and traditional cooking methods that complement the robata, offering a trifecta of indulgent food, flavourful cocktails and heavenly views.
To celebrate the launch of the new robata menu at Azabu Mission Bay, we have the chance for one lucky Denizen to win* a dining experience for four people, valued at $500. Visit our Instagram post below to enter. *Ts&cs apply.
In our experience, the easiest way to sweeten a workday is with lunch to look forward to (especially when easing back into the year). Should you need to land a deal, boost morale within the team or simply incorporate some food-based joy into your day, Auckland restauranteurs will always deliver. Next time you need to book a quick and easy corporate lunch, there’s an offering sure to impress from our definitive guide on where to find the most delicious weekday lunches in Auckland.
Harbour Eats For something cheap and cheerful but always certifiably delicious, Commercial Bay’s Harbour Eats is a destination we return to time and time again. Offering a somewhat elevated take on the classic food court, Harbour Eats takes up the entire third floor of the Commercial Bay precinct. It features micro-destinations from your favourite purveyors like Fatimas, Bird on a Wire and Wise Boys, and lesser-known favourites like South American Oven and Sunny Town.
Gochu If you’ve got time for a long lunch (this is one instance where we suggest making the time), Gochu’s ‘Leave it to the Chef’ lunch is a delightful way to treat yourself and your colleagues to a culinary adventure. With this menu option, you’ll discover why Gochu is one of Commercial Bay’s most popular eateries, as you indulge in dishes like the famed fried chicken sliders and the delicious crispy eggplant — the latter a dish that’s sure to change the way you think about vegetables.
Mr Morris Corporate lunches often call for a bespoke menu — a notion in which Britomart’s Mr Morris is well versed. Rare are the times you’ll find three courses served in 45 minutes, but here, the kitchen’s understanding of a one-hour lunch break has this down to a fine art. If you let the team know when booking, you’ll receive a quick appetiser on arrival, shortly followed by a seasonal entree to share. This is followed by your choice of main, which comes with a divine seasonal side. The beauty of this menu is that it frequently changes, so you’ll never get bored.
Gochu
SPQR Famously home to one of the City’s most beloved long lunches, with a sought-after vantage point of Ponsonby Road, SPQR is just as divine on a weekday as it is on the weekend. Its tailored working lunch menu allows you the time for two delicious courses (or three, should you be craving tiramisu for dessert), beginning at $50 per person. On this menu, you can choose your own entree and main from a curated selection of SPQR favourites (seared scallops with organic corn and chorizo and the vegan spaghettini, please), which makes it a quick, easy and always impressive choice for lunch.
Chur Bae Since opening in level two of City Works Depot last year (where The Botanist once stood), Chur Bae has garnered a devoted following of local gourmands who adore its divine, Korean-inspired menu. If you can get your hands on one of the sought-after chicken sandos, it makes for the perfect lunch to go.
Huami Yum cha has long been a favourite mode of communal dining, and with Huami’s elevated offering, we’ve never been more convinced. Available from Wednesday until the end of the week, this workday lunch option is an easy way to keep everyone in the group happy and encourage compelling table conversation. While Huami’s menu is expansive, it would be remiss not to order a few servings of the beloved dim sim (the squid ink and prawn are sensational) and the steamed barbecued chicken bun, too.
Deli de Bossi An idyllic grab-and-go destination, Deli de Bossi (the younger sister to the delicious new restaurant Bossi next door) is a destination you’d do well to visit. With an authentic Italian offering, stop by for everything from fresh pastries and shaved meats to the sought-after meals to go.
Milenta Since opening earlier this year to long-awaiting crowds, we’ve been impressed by everything coming out of Milenta’s kitchen, courtesy of Head Chef Elie Asaf’s inimitable talents. Lunches here are another affair and while rumour has it we should expect a new menu in the coming weeks, our favourites of the moment include the pork, paying homage to the restaurant’s Argentinian roots, and the ceviche, which is just as visually pleasing as it is utterly mouthwatering.
The Brit Those seeking a casual long-lunch that could easily roll into a few afternoon drinks would do well to call into The Brit. The epitome of a good gastropub, the menu here focuses on pub classics done well — and an expansive drink offering to match. We’d recommend the Smashed Wagyu Burger if you’re feeling indulgent or the Green Bowl topped with grilled chicken for something more virtuous.
Milenta
The Store This Britomart icon offers the best of both worlds — a deliciously easy restaurant where you can meet friends at a moment’s notice and a takeaway outpost at the back, always perfect for a coffee or sandwich on busy work days.
Ahi Regardless of the occasion, Ahi is a restaurant set to impress. Over lunch, we suggest you opt for the set menu, which provides a concise offering of the revered cuisine for which this Commercial Bay restaurant is known. The Cambridge asparagus with bresaola, mushroom and hollandaise is a virtuous start to any meal, paving the way for Ben Bayly’s famed wild red deer striploin — one of our favourite game dishes in the City. Last but not least, we recommend you finish off lunch with the naked mallowpuff, sure you see you through any potential afternoon slump.
Taco Medic The second Auckland destination for these beloved Queenstown tacos, Taco Medic on Quay Street is perfect for an inner-city lunch on the fly. Cheap and cheerful, but still totally tasty (and entirely gluten-free), it’s a delightful lunch for anyone within the Quay Street precinct.
Federal Delicatessen From Al Brown, this CBD stalwart is Auckland’s answer to the classic New York deli. Here, food is simple, flavourful and utterly indulgent, and guarantees to offer a satiating meal at every sitting. We suggest one of the sandwiches or salads if you’re seeking something light, although a side of Montreal poutine never goes amiss.
Faraday’s Bar Intimate in its nature, at Faraday’s Bar, impeccable service is always guaranteed. The menu here is refined, allowing diners the freedom to choose without worrying about whether they’ll make their next meeting. Seasonally driven and always changing so as to incorporate the freshest ingredients, we are currently loving Faraday’s Bar’s smoked beetroot and avocado, but have to admit that the gnocchi with prawns, charred tomato smoked butte and ‘nduja is also utter perfection.
Onemata
Onemata It goes without saying that one of our favourite parts of Park Hyatt is the inimitable food offering from it’s beloved dining outposts. Onemata, the crown jewel of their offering, has recently announced its Express Lunch menu, where diners can choose a starter and a main (or a main and a dessert) for a mere $55. This offering is available both Thursdays and Fridays, from 12pm until 2.30pm.
Sìso This Remuera favourite offers one of the most delightful lunches on the block. From Wednesday until Sunday, you can make like the locals and devour some of Sìso’s most beloved dishes. Begin with a choice of crispy calamari or a spinach filo pie (which comes doused in brown butter sauce) before being treated to a grilled chicken salad or hand-cut linguini with Skull Island prawns and fermented chilli as the tour de force. Of course, like all good lunches, Sìso’s should be paired with a glass of wine.
Alma This Britomart destination is one we find ourselves frequenting far too often, which is a testament to Chef Jo Pearson’s innovative Andalusian cuisine. Offering the same menu as its delicious dinners, we think it’s the perfect lunch option for when you’ve got a little extra time to spare.
Ebisu Here, in the heart of Downtown Auckland, this Britomart stalwart offers an Express Menu for those needing a good meal in the midst of a busy day. Here, Ebisu offers a selection of its most beloved Japanese dishes, including a chef’s selection of fresh market sashimi and the seared Angus beef tataki to begin, before one of three hero mains (we can never look past the teriyaki chicken). Ebisu is our favourite for a reason — there’s no denying its greatness.
Ebisu
Odettes Should you need a quick catch-up with your team or somewhere to grab a swift bite to eat, Odettes is our go-to for more than just the convenient location. Its lunch menu is ideal for those busier days, with tasty bites and satiating options depending on what you are after. Truthfully, we would eat the buttermilk fried chicken savoury crepe with chipotle, peanut and chilli salsa all day if we could.
The Lodge Bar & Dining As perfect for drinks and a light snack with clients as it is a three-course meal with friends, The Lodge Bar & Dining is a menu that’s always divine for a midweek lunch. With a burgeoning oyster menu, delicious pasta, and a 32-day dry-aged steak that’s genuinely unrivalled, we’d suggest this as your next lunch-date destination.
Williams Eatery Lunchtimes at Williams are always delicious, with a menu that feels like a refined take on the all-day brunch. For a midday pick-me-up, we rarely look past the Eggplant Pita with chilli, tamarind and herbed tahini, but we have it on good authority that the Heirloom Tomato Gnocchi is absolutely to die for.
Andiamo Another destination for a long lunch classic, Andiamo’s midday menu is delightful — and just the kind of lunch set to impress at this time of year. Offering their same beloved meatballs, pastas and pizzettes from evening service, everything is made with fresh and flavoursome, seasonal ingredients and is made all the more perfect when paired with a flute of Champagne.
Now that the long days are waning, and we find ourselves back in routine behaviours of workdays and school pick-ups, we find ourselves seeking entertainment from home in the evenings. It seems that producers globally are aware of this too, and have been creating an impressive schedule of new TV shows that promise to keep us thoroughly entertained. From eye-opening limited series to binge-worthy new seasons, these are the new TV series in 2023 that everybody should be watching right now.
The Last Of Us
If you’re yet to hear about last week’s episode of The Last of Us, save any spoilers until you’ve started the series. Already hailed as one of the most remarkable screen adaptations of a video game among discerning critics, it is set in post-apocalyptic America after a global pandemic destroys civilisation. A little close to home? Don’t let that put you off. This is an absolute must-watch. Streaming now on Neon and Sky Go.
Break Point
Released at the height of the southern hemisphere’s tennis season, Break Point is the new docu-series that follows some of the most extraordinary talents in the sport across the grand slam circuit. Likened to Drive To Survive for tennis enthusiasts, it is as gripping as a final itself. Streaming now on Netflix.
Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street
If Jordan Belfort was the Wolf, Bernie Madoff was undeniably The Monster of Wall Street. This fascinating documentary chronicles the rise and fall of financier Madoff, orchestrator of one of the biggest Ponzi schemes in Wall Street history, who was ultimately exposed at the onset of the 2008 financial crisis. Streaming now on Netflix.
The Lying Life of Adults
Based on the best-selling novel by Elena Ferrante (My Brilliant Friend), this series takes us to 1990s Naples, where the brash and bold Aunt Vittoria helps her sheltered niece experience a different side of the city, leaving a trail of chaos in her wake. Streaming now on Netflix.
Shrinking
Featuring Harrison Ford at his very best, the new series Shrinking is a case against speaking the truth. Starring Jason Segal as psychologist Jimmy Laird who breaks all the rules by telling his therapy clients precisely what he thinks, this series is equal parts hilarious and moving. Streaming now on Apple TV.
Kaleidoscope
Akin to the choose-you-own path Goosebumps books from our childhoods, Kaleidoscope is a more thrilling five-part series that viewers can watch in any order. Exploring the many different angles and stories behind a heist of $7billion, there are an astonishing 40,320 possible ways in which the show can be watched. Streaming now on Netflix.
Poker Face
This impressive new series ushers in a revival of the ‘case-of-the-week’ murder series, centred around Charlie Cale, a casino worker on the run following a suspicious death, encountering mysteries and solving homicides using her innate ability to detect lies. Streaming now on TVNZ+.
The Snow Girl
Based on the beloved Spanish novel of the same name, this six-episode series follows a young newspaper journalist determined to help two parents find their missing daughter Amaya, who vanishes from a parade in Málaga. Streaming now on Netflix.
With everyone well and truly back in the office for 2023, it’s high time we updated our work wardrobes. Gone are the days of mundane two-pieces, crinkled shirts and dull suiting. Here, we run through a few easy and sleek styles to incorporate into the weekday wardrobe, from power-dressing pieces to casually chic cuts, remembering that dressing for the office today is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort and style.
Tailoring
For women, current trends are taking the classic power suit to the next level. Elevate your office attire with a perfectly-cut blazer and add to the look with a waistcoat rendered in a similar tone. Sharp tailoring is an absolute must for its ability to give your casual, everyday pieces (a midi dress or a pair of jeans, for instance) a more formal edge.
Men, it’s time to swap out boring dress shirts and suit jackets for something a bit more considered and cutting edge. Embrace a fashion-forward look by opting for a double-breasted cut, or by trying something in a more oversized fit. There is a world beyond the suits and chinos you bought five years ago — time to explore it.
From left: Helen Cherry Rae blazer from Workshop, The Garment Marseille vest from Workshop, Embossed Karakoram Pont Neuf jacket from Louis Vuitton, Single-breasted jacket from Prada.
Everyday Accessories
But it’s not just about what you wear, it’s also about the accessories you pair with your outfits. Women can elevate their look with a statement bag, or a piece of exceptional jewellery (Tiffany & Co.’s new Lock Collection has caught our attention for its more contemporary style, perfect for an everyday work look). Men can add a touch of personality with a sleek timepiece or ring.
You can’t forget about the classic white shirt. For women and men, this is a timeless piece, fit for any occasion and able to be dressed up or down with ease. Whether you prefer a fitted, tailored look or a more relaxed, billowy fit, the white shirt is a versatile piece that is an absolute essential in any work wardrobe. Pair it with tailored trousers or a skirt for a sophisticated look, or dress it down with your favourite pair of jeans for something more approachable.
From left: Blouse with ruffles from Christian Dior, Loewe Asymmetric shirt from Faradays, James Perse Standard shirt from Workshop, Short-sleeved shirt from Prada.
Office Denim
While denim has always been a staple of the weekend wardrobe, it has increasingly been making its way into the office environment too, with various iterations of everyday denim now very acceptable to wear at work. Whether you opt for a structured denim shirt or a stylish pair of jeans, denim will add a touch of ‘cool’ to any office outfit. Pair it with crisp tailoring for a more sophisticated look.
From left: Isabel Marant Étoile Nea Jean from Workshop, Washed denim flare trousers from Gucci, Sandro jeans from Commercial Bay, Monogram Patch jeans from Louis Vuitton.
Loafers
Comfort is key when it comes to office footwear, and this season is all about the loafer. The ultimate combination of formal and casual (and the shoe that works with just about anything), the loafer is as chic when paired with womenswear as it is with men’s looks, and whether you opt for a classic black penny loafer or something more statement-making, there’s a style out there to suit every taste.
From left: Boy Loafer from Dior, Isabel Marant Fayor Loafer from Workshop, Leather lug sole Horsebit loafer from Gucci, Major Loafer from Louis Vuitton.
Work Bags
Given that we spend whole days at the office, and a significant amount of time commuting, it’s imperative to have a bag that not only holds all of our essentials but that also doesn’t look out of place against our chic workwear ensembles. From structured totes to sleek satchels and practical crossbody styles, the options here are endless. Our advice? Choose a bag that balances functionality with form perfectly, and don’t be afraid to opt for something that stands out.
From left: Acne Studios Musubi Midi bag from Workshop, Onthego GM bag from Louis Vuitton, Messenger Bag from Burberry, Leather tote bag from Prada.
Grace Atkinson grew up in the South Island before moving to Sydney, then London, then Paris, then New York before returning to Paris (where she has been for the last 10 years). It was her upbringing that inspired in her a passion for interior practices. “I’m really interested in how the objects we surround ourselves with inform how we live, rest, feel and interact,” Atkinson says below, “I love exploring form, texture and space.” A few months ago, she launched her brand Decima with a series of exquisite, one-off mohair and wool blankets, each in distinctive colours and patterns, created in collaboration with craftspeople from around the world. The brand has been steadily growing ever since, and recently, Atkinson’s creations were part of a group exhibition at Jacqueline Sullivan Gallery in New York. We recently talked to the up-and-coming creative to uncover what drives her unique vision. With a number of plans for the future, Atkinson is certainly one to watch, and her exquisite textiles are the perfect addition to any well-designed space.
Photography by Dan McMahon
Tell me about your background. What took you from New Zealand to living in Paris?
I come from Timaru, but spent much of my childhood in Wanaka, which is now my beloved home base when I visit New Zealand. The immensely beautiful nature and isolation of New Zealand is part of what makes it so special, but as a teenager, I felt a pull towards big cities and everything they could offer in terms of culture, diversity and opportunities. Entering into the world of fashion, I did a stint in Sydney, before moving to London and then to Paris around ten years ago. Within that time there were a few years of constant travel to New York, Milan and other parts of Europe for shoots and consulting work. I spent a year living in New York, coinciding with a shift into art and design. Paris is absolutely my adopted home, but as a New Zealander, I don’t think I will ever take for granted the ease of travel to other countries due to being in such close proximity. It would be hard to give that up!
Where did the idea for Decima start? Why textiles?
Textiles are in my DNA, my Great Grandmother and Grandmother were costume designers and seamstresses and my Mother opened one of the first vintage stores in New Zealand called ‘Collage’ in the early 80s, specialising in pre-20th century pieces. Growing up, my parents had a flooring business so I was surrounded by rugs, carpets and hand-painted tiles from Italy. I have always had a strong interest in interiors and I wanted to engage in a practice where I could explore different ways of composing a home, through texture, form and space. I’m really interested in how the objects we surround ourselves with inform how we live, rest, feel and interact. With Decima I aim to create beautiful pieces that inspire a tender, nurturing and connected home.
“Through Decima, I work with artisans around the world with the aim of preserving traditional techniques that are unfortunately in the process of being lost.”
Tell me about your creative process. What inspires your designs?
I try to remain curious and open everywhere I go, whether I am in the countryside or walking the streets of Paris. A beautiful colour palette will often show itself to me when I least expect it. My design process usually starts with drawing sessions where I will immerse myself in music and just let myself loose with no limitations. From there I do a lot of editing, and then refining, exploring possibilities in colour and scale. Decima is still a relatively new project so I try to leave a lot of space for my voice to evolve, which at this stage means my approach is quite intuitive and emotional. I only want to make things that excite me.
Where are your Decima pieces made?
Through Decima, I work with artisans around the world with the aim of preserving traditional techniques that are unfortunately in the process of being lost. I am currently working with artisans in Ukraine, employing techniques developed in the 14th Century. It is such an honour working with these gifted women that continue forward with absolute strength despite the devastation they are currently facing. I am also working with a family-owned textile factory that was founded in Spain in the 1930s whose artisanal processes and techniques of this region date back to the 15th Century.
Photography by Alexandra Nataf
Who are some creatives you look up to?
I recently designed some unique pieces for the debut show at Jacqueline Sullivan Gallery in Tribeca, New York. It was an absolute honour to have my work shown with such talented designers and artists as Isabella Toledo, Kristin Dickson-Okuda, Jordan McDonald, Valentina Cameranesi Sgroi, Natalie Weinberger and Christian + Jade. Also to work with such brilliant creatives that are dedicated to a singular vision, Jacqueline Sullivan, Ruby Woodhouse and Abel Sloane.
Looking to the future, what can we expect from Decima next?
Through Decima, I will continue to explore textural possibilites for the home, with many more blankets, rugs, throws and giant floor cushions to come.
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