With seasonal celebrations filling up our calendars for the weeks and months ahead, the call for a closet brimming with party-approved attire has never been more apparent. From dress codes that call for black-tie glamour to flirty summer minis destined for summer cocktail hour, put your best foot forward this party season with our editors’ line-up of outfit ideas for any kind of occasion.
“Embrace a formal dresscode in all its glamorous glory with floor-length dresses, delicate clutch bags, spectacular diamonds, sparkling sequins and sky-high heels. Here, nothing is ever too much.”
From left: Black Drama gown from Balenciaga. Alexandre Vauthier Demi Couture Dress from Faradays. Cady dress with feathers from Prada. Mach & Machdouble bow sandals from net-a-porter. Schlumberger Trellis earrings from Tiffany & Co. Micro Lady Dior bag from Christian Dior.
From left: Helen Cherryrae blazer from Workshop. Multi-triangle shape earrings from Gucci. Santos DE CARTIER Watch from Cartier. ALAÏA Mule Coeur 90 from Faradays. Midi skirt from Prada. Asymmetric Pleated Dress from Balenciaga.
“When occasions call for a touch of class, keep things simple with a monochromatic look or an elegant suit.”
From left: Tweed sleeveless dress from Gucci. Long skirt from Saint Laurent. Cleo satin bag with crystals from Prada. Givenchy Flounced Plissé mini dress from Faradays. Croc-effect Metallic bag from Burberry. Medusa Platform Pumps from Versace.
“Flirty and festive is the name of the game here. From thigh-skimming minis to eye-catching bags, your sundowner look should be anything but boring.”
From left: Alaïa Spiral Skater Mini-dress from Faradays. Embellished brass hair clip from Prada. Monogram belt bag from Louis Vuitton. Sculptural dress from Louis Vuitton. Acne StudiosDistortion Micro bag from Workshop. Loewe Balloon sandals from Faradays.
Unexpected takes on classic styles are dictating the latest lighting trends, where an ornamental approach is turning everyday lights into bold works of art. From orb-like clusters to cylindrical chandeliers, these eye-catching lights will elevate any space.
Vesper Brushed Silver Pendants by Lee Broom from ECC Continuing the modern ideal of exploring geometry in space, Lee Broom’s Vesper Brushed Silver Pendants are almost akin to a work of contemporary, sculptural art. A divine example of Brutalist design, the pendants were made as an uber-contemporary ode to cathedral lighting, and feature linear, brushed-silver, rectangular forms connected by contrasting circular bulbs. These pendants are at their most excellent when suspended in a cluster above a pared-back space, allowing the play on form to speak for itself.
Plusminus Lighting System by Stefan Diez for Vibia from ECC This iconic Stefan Diez design for Vibia is an ode to abstract versatility. Plusminus acts as a statement of its own; a work of art, a subtle room divider and a lighting source for a more subdued glow. Paving the way for new advancements in lighting, at the core of Plusminus is a conductive ribbon, allowing you to drape, tighten, or display your light in whatever way accentuates the space best. This versatility means that the Plusminus light can be used to its full potential, promising to get any room glowing in no time.
Constellation Pendant by Cassina from Matisse Reimagining the idea of the classic chandelier, the Constellation Pendant by Cassina boasts a design that was inspired by the astral bodies that make up our universe. Via smooth, illuminated orbs made in a white etched and white marble finish, this stunning piece will diffuse the light softly over an entire space and is the perfect centrepiece for any contemporary dining room.
Leaf Pendant by Loomiosafrom Desejo A linear, almost skeletal form makes up the unique design of Desejo’s Leaf Pendant, which was inspired by the elegant curvature of palm leaves. Made from anodised aluminium poles in a range of colours and constructed in such a way as to offer a different silhouette depending on the angle from which it is viewed, this extraordinary light will be a conversation-starting addition to any room.
Cloud Pendant by Apparatus from ECC In what has become one of the signature pieces from the renowned New York-based design studio, Apparatus, the Cloud Pendant comprises a number of elegant orbs that, joined together, create an eye-catching chandelier. Each orb has been frosted by hand to not only create an interesting texture but to diffuse the light in a beautifully soft and subtle way. It’s no wonder this piece is so globally coveted.
ED046 Light by Edizioni Design from Dawson & Co. Unapologetically modern and boasting a strong, geometric shape, the ED046 Light is an arresting addition to any room. Made from a singular brass tube inside of which sits a straight, fluorescent light, this exceptional light is destined to draw attention, and can be combined with others like it to create a more dramatic effect.
Volum Pendant by Snøhetta for Lodes from ECC Akin to a cluster of faraway stars that seemingly light up the night sky, the Volum Pendant is a creation that is best showcased in a cluster. Featuring a series of baubles, imperfect in their positioning, the dynamic nature of this grouping adds movement and intrigue to the pendant’s refined and simplistic form. Despite being little more than a series of spheres suspended in space, the way this light comes together makes it feel like a piece of art, which renders it the perfect centrepiece for a grand foyer or soaring stairwell.
Ghost Light by Resident from Simon James Satisfyingly minimalist but not afraid to make a statement, the Ghost Light, designed by local brand Resident, is a fixture that bridges the gap between contemporary and classic. This pendant combines borosilicate glass cylinders and LED light strips, in a design that cleverly marries technology with materiality. The finished look considers both form and foresight, as it subtly reinvents the pendant as we know it.
Over six generations, the Partridge family has cemented its eponymous brand (comprising jewellery collections and multi-brand stores) as one of New Zealand’s most iconic and covetable. Not only has Partridge Jewellers created a raft of incredible, collectable pieces under its own name, but its stores have come to house a stable of world-renowned jewellery, including the likes of Piaget, Fope, Chopard, David Yurman and more — as well as some of the most sought-after watch brands in the world.
Now, it is to the latter that Partridge is dedicating its latest, major project — a landmark new store in the heart of Auckland’s luxury shopping precinct. There, on lower Queen Street, set in an exquisite, 500-square-metre space, two exceptional watch brands are exclusively showcased — Rolex and Patek Philippe — offering Partridge’s Auckland clientele a whole new way to experience the incredible craftsmanship of these renowned marques.
The watches themselves are displayed in the store’s downstairs area, while the upper level houses a more intimate space in which clients can discover Partridge Jewellers’ new services centre and be treated to some unique hospitality at the private bar and dining room.
“We are taking a big opportunity to represent two of the finest watch brands in the world,” says Partridge Jewellers’ Owner, Grant Partridge, “We want to be at the forefront of this in New Zealand. We are also thinking about our long-term future — it’s a vote of confidence in the Auckland CBD.”
And if the opening alone wasn’t enough, Partridge Jewellers will be hosting Patek Philippe’s Passion for Workmanship exhibition on its upper level, from today (2nd of December) until the 11th of December. For almost 20 years, Partridge Jewellers has cultivated a close relationship with Patek Philippe — not least of all because the two are still family-run companies with a number of shared values. Comprising a special selection of exquisite timepieces from the revered Swiss watchmaker (including pieces from its Nautilus, Aquanaut and Calatrava collections, alongside some of the brand’s Grand Complications watches) the stunning exhibition will be open for private viewing only, requests for which can be made here.
Partridge Jewellers’ new store comes off the back of its recently-opened location in Westfield Newmarket and furthers the brand’s reputation as one of New Zealand’s foremost purveyors of luxury. It will be interesting to see how this striking new space propels Partridge Jewellers’ evolution — after all, it is the brand’s ability to grow and move not only with the times but with the demands of their clientele that has seen it retain such a prominent position in the market for so long. An indication that Aucklanders’ appetite for luxury is not going anywhere anytime soon, this new store is one we highly recommend experiencing for yourself.
For anyone hosting Christmas at their house this year, consider this a public service announcement. There’s nothing like a poorly-dressed dining table to disrupt the flow of a festive family lunch — and nothing like a well-dressed one to help create the perfect atmosphere. So, when considering how your Christmas celebrations will look this year, look no further than The Studio of Tableware. Boasting a vast and varied selection of exceptional products that will help to create the perfect tablescape for any occasion, this one-stop tableware Mecca has long been our go-to when preparing to host and these are our picks for the season ahead.
Whether your style is sleek and simple, or glamorous and decorative, The Studio of Tableware has a range of plates and serving dishes to suit any kind of setup. From the distinctive and undeniably luxurious Versace dinnerware to the more classic Rosenthal collections, there is something here to satisfy any aesthetic vision or themed occasion.
Not all glassware is created equal (despite what you might think). And when the style of glass you choose can greatly affect your experience of the drink it holds, why wouldn’t you opt for the best? Particularly when it’s time to break out those special bottles you’ve been saving for your festive occasion. Luckily, The Studio of Tableware carries a wide range of glassware for any kind of drink and any kind of style, from classic shapes to colourful options and everything in between.
When dressing your table, don’t forget the final touch — a line-up of carefully-chosen accessories that will bring your setup to life. Whether your tablescape calls for an eye-catching candelabra or a sculptural centrepiece, The Studio of Tableware carries a variety of accessories that will enhance any style of dining table, and give your lunch or dinner a sophisticated edge.
Offering the ultimate luxury lifestyle in the heart of Parnell, new development One Saint Stephens has just unveiled its breathtaking penthouse, The One, setting a bold new standard in apartment living, unrivalled in the market here.
Set on a prominent corner site on one of the most sought-after streets in Auckland, One Saint Stephens is setting a bold new standard for city-fringe living. From its sleek, modernist design to its enviable position that will offer residents spectacular views and all-day sun, this exceptional development is responding to Aucklanders’ growing demand for residential solutions that match their cosmopolitan lifestyles, calling for convenience and comfort in equal measure.
As such, all of the 27 apartments (21 of which are sold) at One Saint Stephens have been designed to exacting standards, with luxury finishes, plenty of natural light and access to the building’s world-class amenities (like a wellness area, a pool, a separate dining room for owners and a ‘speakeasy’ bar). And while the development as a whole is comparable to something one might expect to find in a city like London or New York, it is the newly-unveiled premium penthouse, dubbed ‘The One’, that, when complete, will take things to a whole new level — literally.
“The One at One Saint Stephens is fundamentally the best apartment ever offered in New Zealand,” says Martin Cooper of Experiences by Coopers, the co-developer with Mike Sullivan of Countrywide Residences. “Drawing inspiration from global cities, this will be a legacy property for the lucky owner.” Indeed, from what we have seen of The One, there is simply nothing that compares. Similar only to the development’s other, smaller penthouse (accessible by a separate lift) The One has been conceived as a glazed pavilion, perched lightly atop a stone plinth, and will offer expansive, open-plan living areas that have been intentionally designed to allow future residents to define their own spaces with furniture and art. Light will be invited into The One’s gallery space via gently-curved, pod-like forms that will draw the eye towards the living area and beyond, where covered terraces to the East, North and West will be positioned to offer spectacular, panoramic views out to the Waitemāta Harbour and across to the Auckland City skyline. Offering a necessary counter-balance to the openness of the shared areas, The One’s exquisite bedroom suite will provide comforting, private spaces to which the owners can retreat, complete with a beautifully-appointed ensuite and a walk-in wardrobe, carefully designed to provide the perfect storage for those, most special pieces.
Furthermore, celebrated chef Des Harris (previously of Clooney fame) has been called on to advise on the design of the two kitchens incorporated into The One, ensuring that they will be as suitable for personal use as they will be for commercial chefs and waitstaff — should an occasion call for it.
Elsewhere, the One Saint Stephens’ showroom garaging (the design of which has been informed by the automotive minds at Giltrap Group) will offer a generous basement storage space and six oversized carparks for The One which will be able to be increased according to what the owner might need.
“It is incredibly rare to have the opportunity to create something of this scale on the best site in Auckland’s best suburb,” Cooper continues. “Ultimately, there have been very few significant apartment builds in Parnell in the last fifteen years and nothing remotely in the realms of this calibre, both in terms of position and luxury.”
Indeed, The One (when complete) is set to stand as the pinnacle of uncompromising luxury, rivalling the City’s grandest, standalone homes and offering a lifestyle on par with the best seen anywhere in the world. With construction well underway (expected to finish at the end of 2024) this is a rare opportunity to secure an apartment, the likes of which has never been seen here before, and probably won’t be available again for a long time, in one of the most exclusive and luxurious developments in Auckland.
Set on the busy corner of Jervois and Ardmore Road, but offering an intimate escape from its bustling suburban surrounds, Squisito Trattoria is Herne Bay’s charming new neighbourhood eatery, offering simple, delicious food, beautiful wine and a very convenient takeaway window (which is proving to be a godsend over the festive season).
Opened by Tony Matches and Buki Prekazi (both coming from extensive careers in hospitality in New Zealand and overseas) Squisito offers exactly what you want from a neighbourhood spot. Step inside the framed-glass frontage and you will be greeted with a space that is sleek and contemporary while still feeling warm, welcoming and fun. Offsetting its simple, black furnishings (which Matches tells me he and his team handmade themselves), Squisito’s walls are rendered in unexpected tones of peach and vibrant blue, a combination that not only works to inject a bit of character into the small space but cultivate a relaxed, elevated vibe. (In fact, Matches explains that they called on design consultant Steve Reid to help create the perfect environment at Squisito — something that, in our opinion, has been achieved with considerable success.) Here, one might just as happily park up on the comfortable, window-side bench seats to enjoy a quiet after-work drink, as they might luxuriate in a long, drawn-out dinner or a convivial night with friends — such is the versatility of Squisito’s space and menu.
As for the latter, Squisito’s food offering has been inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean, allowing Matches and Prekazi to create dishes that draw on a vast range of culinary influences — from Italy to Spain to Portugal to North Africa. The menu, Matches tells me, will be ever-changing and seasonally driven, anchored in al dente pasta, perfectly-cooked meats and wood-fired pizza, but with the core focus always on offering tasty food to suit any kind of palate. At the moment, there is a strong Italian influence running through all of Squisito’s dishes, from small bites to heavier mains to perfectly-executed pizzas, and everything feels fresh and full of flavour.
Highlights include the mouth-watering roast duck gnocchi with black olives, mushrooms and pecorino, the venison (cooked overnight in Squisito’s wood-fired oven), served with a sprinkling of blueberries and grana padano (perfect for those seeking something slightly rich) and the lemon and prawn risotto with avocado and shaved parmesan. That said, it’s almost impossible to pass up one of Squisito’s wood-fired pizzas, which range from the classic Margherita and prosciutto varieties to pork and fennel sausage with broccoli and pecorino, and a garlic prawn and chilli option. All of Squisito’s pizzas are made using a San Marzano tomato base, which delivers a deeper, more authentic flavour.
There is also, of course, a range of tantalising vegetarian dishes (from vegetarian lasagne to pizza topped with cauliflower, confit mushrooms and wood-fired roasted pumpkin) as well as a concise but undeniably enticing dessert menu of tiramisu, chocolate mousse (with caramelised orange) and basil and lemon panna cotta.
Notably, there isn’t a wine list at Squisito. Instead, Matches explains to me that customers can simply walk up to the eatery’s extensive wine racks (taking up an entire wall), choose the bottle that takes their fancy, take it back to their table and pour away. It’s a very casual, help-yourself style that allows diners to get up close and personal with Squisito’s vast and varied wine offering, and allows Matches and Prekazi the freedom to regularly change the wines they choose to stock. Really, it’s part of the beauty of Squisito that nothing here is totally set in stone, making it the perfect place for locals who are looking for somewhere they can pop into regularly without running the risk of it ever feeling repetitive or stale.
Aside from Squisito’s dine-in offering, Matches and Prekazi have also launched a strategic (and already popular) takeaway option for anyone seeking Squisito’s delicious food without actually sitting in. Via a dedicated takeaway window located on Ardmore Road just down from the restaurant’s entrance, hungry punters can order anything off Squisito’s menu to enjoy at home, which is a pretty appealing prospect, particularly as the festive season really starts to ramp up.
“I just wanted to create a place with a bright, interesting, atmosphere, where people could enjoy tasty food and a fun, neighbourhood vibe,” Matches tells me. “Squisito is a real local,” he continues, “a friendly eatery where friends can meet over great food and great wine… come in and say hi, you’ll probably know someone sitting at another table.”
Opening hours: Tuesday until Thursday, 4pm — 10pm Friday until Sunday, 12pm — 10pm
Enticing embroidery, dusty tones and classic shapes collide in these accessories from Christian Dior’s Cruise 2023 collection, capturing the mood of the season perfectly. Inspired by the spirit of Spain, the collection features details that are eye-catching and chic, from pom-pom-lined Saddle Bags to bejewelled sunglasses to floral Book Totes.
So, whether you are looking for a showstopping gift for someone special this Christmas, or are simply wanting to treat yourself, find all the inspiration you need in our picks from Christian Dior’s new-season accessories.
For the intrepid, adventuring type, these handy gadgets and elevated accessories promise to tick all the boxes. From essential, fashion-forward footwear, to tools and tech for those who like to explore the outdoors, this season we’ve curated the ultimate guide to ensure everyone adventurous in your life is taken care of.
Barista & Co Twist Coffee Press from The Studio of Tableware A thirst for adventure needn’t require a compromise on taste; we happen to think good coffee should be readily available regardless of where you wake up each morning. This twist-press emulates the same depth and breadth of a pour-over coffee, with the added convenience of fitting in your pack’s smallest pocket, should you require a fresh cup at a moment’s notice.
Moncler Trail Grip GTX Sneakers from Moncler For when the most rugged of trails call for a more stylish sleight of hand, Moncler can be relied upon for the ultimate shoe that embodies the essence of adventure. Featuring a Gore-Tex exterior for essential waterproofing, and constructed from durable ripstop, these shoes are grounded in a function-first approach.
Moscot Fliptosh Sunglasses from Parker & Co With 20-20 vision in mind, Moscot’s iconic Fliptosh frames are the perfect gift for someone seeking both practicality and style. Designed as a dual-purpose frame, which can be easily fitted with prescription lenses, the style is handcrafted from Italian acetate — a vision of the iconic brand’s 107 years of expertise in eyewear.
Bellerby & Co Globemakers Mini Desk Globes from Mr Porter Inspired by a little old-world glamour, where globes are housed in dusty libraries whose shelves reveal tales of intrepid adventure, these mini versions by the iconic Bellerby & Co Globemakers fit perfectly atop a desk, inspiring a newfound sense of adventure at every glance. The perfect gift for the office worker who would much rather be anywhere else.
Fujinon Techno-Stabilized Binoculars from Photo Warehouse The best kinds of gifts are always those that we would never buy for ourselves, and binoculars are always a welcome addition for any adventurer. Designed to scope out far-flung locations, or pry on wildlife from afar, these Fujinon binos are some of the best on the market. Not only do they offer an innovative techno-stabiliser, and the strength of Fujifilm’s famed technology, but they also offer up to 14x magnification — all without you having to move a muscle.
Swiss Army Knife from Everyday Needs It goes without saying that practicality should be at the heart of every gift for an adventurer, and there are few items more suitable than a Swiss Army Knife — an indisputable fact, according to literally anyone who has one. This iteration from Everyday Needs features an elegant, sustainable European walnut wood, that offers the perfect combination of outdoorsy and chic.
The Weekender Bag in Navy fromHonest Wolf The essential addition for any summer travel is the Weekender bag from Honest Wolf, a local accessory brand bringing quality wool goods back to their former glory. With the textile sourced from husband and wife founders Sam and Sophie Hurley’s 3,300-hectare third-generation farm, this bag fits in overhead cabins — perfect for those who love a last-minute adventure.
Diorizon Hiking Boot from Dior Should hiking be your loved one’s favourite pastime, Dior’s latest boot will see them trekking into the summer in high-end style. Boasting the same kind of aesthetic as our beloved tramping boots, but with a more slender rubber sole allowing for a lighter, easier step, these are the kind of boots you find yourself reaching for more often than you would think (whether a hike is on the cards, or not).
Reto 3D x Retrospekt Camera from Splendid Photo The best adventures are ones with lasting photos that keep the memory alive, and nothing is quite as nostalgic and sweet as a savoured roll of film. This camera in particular is perfectly pocket-friendly, allowing anyone the chance to capture precious moments in the beauty of 35mm.
Located on the outskirts of Amsterdam, the DB11 house is an ode to the ‘Amsterdamse School’ architectural movement (popular between 1910 and 1930) that informed much of the original character of its area. From the outside, its brick facade, wooden window frames and red roof cladding speak directly to this history, but venture inside and you’ll discover how the idea of heritage has been more seamlessly integrated into the design, resulting in a residence that is unique, wonderfully layered and inherently contemporary.
Renowned Dutch firm, Framework Studio, were the designers tasked with reimagining this home for a young family, and for them, moving the residence into the future required first delving into its past. According to the studio Founder, Thomas Geerlings, this meant searching through archives to understand more about the original architect in order to get insight into materials, texture and light. It was this knowledge about the building’s heritage that Framework Studio used to inform its designs, starting with a carefully selected material palette.
Here, white-washed parquet timber flooring, light drapery and clean white walls are layered with dark timber pieces, sculptural steel accents and a generous use of green that, not only connects to the lush gardens surrounding the home, but lends the otherwise minimalist spaces some tonal depth. In using this more organic palette, Framework has managed to create spaces that feel unapologetically modern without losing any of the warmth or comfort necessary for a family home.
Atollo table lamp by Vico Magistretti for Oluce from ECC, CH58 barstools by Hans J. Wegner for Carl Hansen & Søn.
In the kitchen and its adjacent dining area, this balanced design comes alive, where the rigid lines of a marble island are softened by rounded Hans J. Wegner bar stools and a commanding Atollo table lamp. Similarly, a sturdy dining table in dark wood is rendered less severe by rounded legs, raw edges, and the rattan detailing on each of the Pierre Jeanneret chairs that surround it. Meanwhile, painted oak cupboards in a subtle (but sophisticated) neutral tone serve to enhance the contrasting detail in the kitchen’s marble and bring a dimension to the space that white alone couldn’t deliver.
Chandigarh chairsby Pierre Jeanneret.
In the home’s more private spaces, timber has been used liberally (although this time via dark parquet flooring and honey-toned cupboards) to create bedrooms that feel intimate and inviting. Again, while the underlying palette is clean and simple, the tonal accents are cool and contemporary as the green motif continues in an intriguing marble (used on floors and in the smaller bathroom) and understated touches of blue that recall the industrial tones of the steel pieces seen elsewhere in the house.
Framework Studio has cleverly designed a home that is both grounded in its history and prepared for the future. In weaving these two ideas seamlessly into every space, the designers have transcended trends to create a residence that will stand the test of time — the measure of success for any modern home.
Clockwise: Lateral light from Powersurge, Atollo table lamp by Vico Magistretti for Oluce from ECC, Casey credenza by Thomas Bina from Frobisher.
From left: Tycho II Small wall light from Desejo, Darian sideboard from Desejo.
From left: Egg Sculpture in Solid Ōamaru Stone by Fourth Street Home from Simon James, NVL table by Jean Nouvel Design for MDF Italia from Matisse, Mr dining chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe for Knoll from Studio Italia.
The mood is certainly festive at Ponsonby Central, the restaurants abuzz with jovial gatherings and the precinct’s infamous Santa statue gracing us with his cheeky presence. To top it all off, newcomer and boutique cinema Silky Otter has just opened its doors, promising to entertain and delight its patrons in serious style.
Silky Otter is more than just a movie theatre, boasting a sleek restaurant and bar area, ‘So Lounge’, which serves fresh fare, barista-made coffee, and delectable cocktails. There’s never been a better reason to make a night of it, and you can even have food and drinks delivered to your luxurious theatre recliner as you indulge in your film of choice.
Movies currently showing at Silky Otter Ponsonby include the highly anticipated Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, The Menu, and to entertain the children, the newly released animation Strange World. With state-of-the-art auditoriums, each seating 28 people, and the opportunity to hire out a specially-designed space with its very own bar, lounge and Laurent-Perrier screen, Silky Otter will undoubtedly elevate your cinema experience to new heights.
To welcome Silky Otter to Ponsonby Central, we’re giving away the ultimate evening experience for four people — dinner at Inca and a Silky Otter movie experience. Your evening will kick off with Inca’s ‘Let Us Feed You’ tasting menu — a selection of the restaurant’s greatest hits designed for sharing. Then, you’ll head to Silky Otter, where you’ll enjoy a movie and dessert. To enter, fill out the form below. Good luck!
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