The abrupt temperature change has seen us blasting the heater and turning to our most cosy attire, only to find that our winter wardrobes require a serious update. And while the cold, rainy weather might be putting a dampener on our social lives, we’ve decided to combat the blues with a spot of seasonal shopping. After all, what better excuse is there for picking up some new cashmere?
Here, we round up all of the knits we’re coveting to get us through the cooler months in style.
It’s time to go beyond the gloss to adopt a more purposeful pout. Bold lipstick is back in a big way and this is how you should be wearing it.
Lend some colour to your look by adding a failsafe red lip, opt for ombré, or for a more understated look that still stands out, try your hand at blurred lipstick.
Return of Red
Give your daily look a certain je ne sais quoi with classic red lipstick. Here, you can channel a low-maintenance French girl vibe with a shade of muted red and simple skin, or go full va-va-voom with a bold red guaranteed to turn heads.
Ombré All Day
The ombré look is achieved by applying a gradient of colour across the lips, starting with the darkest tones by the outer edges and cupid’s bow, and ending in the centre with a light, almost-translucent finish. All you need is a lip liner, two shades of lipstick and a gloss. It might take a bit of practice but the end result is worth it.
Blurred Lines
For a more understated lipstick look, try your hand at the blurred trend. Here, simply apply your colour to the inner parts of the lips and use your finger to smudge to the edges, resulting in a blurry, ethereal effect with no defined lines. This look is simple, soft and super feminine.
Over the years, Gucci has staged its Cruise collections against some pretty epic backdrops, setting a scene that always feels more cinematic than the average runway. (After all, who better to bring the drama than this iconic Italian house?)
Now, for its Cruise 2025 collection, under Sabato De Sarno Gucci is looking to the iconic cultural hub that is London’s Tate Modern, flying in supporters of the brand, VIPs and celebrities from all over the world to witness the unveiling of its new offering.
Taking place tomorrow morning (Tuesday, the 14th of May) at 8am (New Zealand time), the show is set to be a spectacle of fashion, glamour and Gucci’s signature showmanship. We will be streaming the runway right here via our livestream link below, so all you have to do is return to this page at 8am tomorrow to witness all the fashion unfold in real-time. See you then.
In our pursuit of optimal health, we are faced with a seemingly endless array of powders and pills that promise to change our lives. But what should we actually be consuming in the mornings? Our nutritionist makes her recommendations.
Firstly, it’s true that the morning is the best time to consider establishing a solid supplement routine. From my years of experience working one-on-one with clients, the most common feedback I’ve received is that if they don’t take something first thing in the morning, then it often gets forgotten altogether.
Increasingly, more supplements are available in powder form, which not only allows the inclusion of multiple active ingredients, but also ensures that these ingredients can be present in more effective doses. Plus, a powder is super easy and efficient to add to a smoothie, water bottle or cereal, as opposed to having to take various tablets separately.
And while what you need to take will depend entirely on your personal health, diet, goals and lifestyle (what may be essential for one person, won’t necessarily be useful for another), generally speaking a fantastic morning supplement blend should address the basics to kick-start your day: energy and mental performance, immunity, skin health and gut health. These can all be covered by looking out for the following ingredients and nutrients. (Those seeking personalised recommendations should talk with a registered nutrition expert, or book with me at Belle Epoque Nutrition.)
Collagen
This is an everyday must for anyone over 25 years old as it promotes collagen production and boosts your total protein intake which is especially important for recovering from a morning workout, weight loss and ageing. Taking a collagen supplement that includes the necessary cofactors (such as zinc and vitamin C) for collagen synthesis is essential, to ensure that the collagen is going where it is needed most.
Greens Powder
I always recommend to my clients to eat eight servings of vegetables every day to get the vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients the body needs. But for some (including me sometimes) this doesn’t always happen. For those who can’t, a good quality greens powder including ingredients such as broccoli sprout, milk thistle, spirulina, chlorella and wheatgrass is ideal.
Adaptogenic Botanicals
For most busy people, starting the day with anything that is going to help manage stress, anxiety, and balance mood is going to be beneficial. A few adaptogens I’ve found to have the most scientific support behind them include ashwagandha and rhodiola which can be found in powder form and added into almost anything.
Probiotics
From gastrointestinal health to immune support to hormonal, cardiovascular and mental health, probiotics are the heavy-lifters you definitely need to take every single day (especially given that most people are not consuming probiotic food regularly enough).
Challenge your perspective and elevate your surroundings with this selection of refined masterpieces. From the captivating and colourful to the big, bold, and brilliant, these are the most sought-after pieces to add to your collection.
The Art Market
Our Editors’ Picks
Abbey eyes seeing the back of the head neurons firing regret by Dale Frank, 2008 $155,000, Varnish on linen, 2000 x 2600mm From Gow Langsford Gallery
KORE TAITARA 2 by Jon Tootill, 2023, $9,000, Acrylic on canvas, 1000 x 1300mm From Sanderson Contemporary
Esk River I (after Gabrielle) by Kate van der Drift, 2023, $4,700, C-type photograph, framed, edition of 5 + 2AP, 1090 x 875mm From Sanderson Contemporary
Ripple (edition of 3) by Josephine Cachemaille, 2023, $850, Cast bronze, 80 x 160mm From Sanderson Contemporary
Briefly Gorgeous by Natasha Wright, 2023, $26,000, Oil on canvas, 1219 x 914mm From Sanderson Contemporary
Motif Architype by Ramon Robertson, 2023, $4,200, Plaster, concrete & steel rods, 720 x 220 x 170mm From Föenander Galleries
Pink Forest Blue Pool by Paul Davies, 2022, $20,000, Acrylic on canvas, 1220 x 910mm From Starkwhite Queenstown
Composition 10: with notations, additions and subtractions by Hugo Koha Lindsay, 2023, $2,800, Synthetic polymer and graphite compound on cotton duck, 450 x 600mm From Gow Langsford Gallery
Untitled Study by Nick Herd, 2024, $5,800, Oil on Canvas, 610 x 510mm From Föenander Galleries
His Mumbling by Sasha Mariana, 2023, $1,500, Charcoal on canvas, 604 x 802mm From Kaukau
Rock Melon Pop by Max Patté, 2023, $56,000, 1618 Diameter x 72mm, 90kgs, Automotive paint, acrylic paints, clear cast acrylic, epoxy resin, clear coat custom board, 2 way glass mirror, leds, 24v power supply, electrical cable, 240v plug From Lightworx Gallery
The first Monday in May carries special meaning for the fashion set, marking the most significant event on the calendar — The Met Gala.
Inaugurated as an annual fundraising gala for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, The Met Gala has become synonymous with outrageous outfits and iconic celebrity moments. It is an event that has come to capture the imagination of even those completely uninterested in fashion or glamour. And while almost every notable figure in Hollywood receives an invite, from style icons to actors and musicians (and more recently, to TikTok stars) we are left to look on from home — taking on the role of fashion critic to dissect the outfits of those in attendance.
Each year guests are asked to dress to a theme reflecting that of the Costume Institute’s exhibition, and this year, it’s the new spring exhibition, ‘Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion’, that plays muse. The associated dress code was ‘The Garden of Time’, taking inspiration from a 1962 short story of the same name by J.G. Ballard, whose narrative centres on a dwindling garden of flowers with the ability to slow down time. Attendees donned their botanic-inspired and dystopian-esque interpretations, some taking the story’s inspiration more literally than others (we’re looking at you, Zendaya), while others leaned into the Sleepy Beauty motif wholeheartedly.
Here, we round up all the best looks from this year’s ‘first Monday in May,’ each of which showcases why this event has become the most significant on the global fashion calendar.
Met Gala 2024
Our Editors’ Picks
Anna Wintour Wearing custom Loewe
Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky Wearing Tom Ford and (Elsa wearing) Bulgari jewellery
Bad Bunny Wearing custom Maison Margiela and Tiffany & Co. Sunglasses
Demi Moore wearing Harris Reed and Cartier High Jewellery
Jennifer Lopez Wearing custom Schiaparelli Haute Couture and Tiffany & Co. High Jewellery
Kylie Jenner Wearing custom Oscar de la Renta
Gigi Hadid Wearing Thom Browne
Kendall Jenner Wearing archive Givenchy 1999
Greta Lee Wearing Loewe
Tyla Wearing Balmain
Karlie Kloss Wearing custom Swarovski
Omar Apollo Wearing Loewe
Dua Lipa Wearing Marc Jacobs and Tiffany & Co. jewellery
Mindy Kaling Wearing Gaurav Gupta
Madelyn Cline wearing custom Tommy Hilfiger
Emily Ratajkowski Wearing Atelier Versace FW01 Haute Couture
Riley Keough Wearing Chanel
Kaia Gerber Wearing custom Prada and Tiffany & Co. Jewellery
Lana Del Rey Wearing custom Alexander McQueen
Nicholas Galitzine Wearing Fendi
Lana DelLil Nasx Wearing custom Luar (covered in 50,000 Swarovski crystals)
Rebecca Ferguson Wearing Thom Browne
Irina Shayk Wearing custom Swarovski
Elle Fanning Wearing Balmain and Cartier jewellery
Zendaya Wearing Maison Margiela Couture and Bulgari Jewellery
Naomi Campbell Wearing custom Burberry
Nicole Kidman Wearing iconic 1950s couture gown by Cristobal Balenciaga — albeit, a recreation
Anok Yai Wearing custom Swarovski
Kim Kardashian Wearing custom Maison Margiela Couture
Fashion lore credits Celine’s recognisable Triomphe logo to a minor car accident in Paris in the 1970s. So what is the story behind this sought-after icon? And how has it impacted the house of Celine?
The year was 1973 and Celine Vipiana, founder of the now-iconic fashion house that carries her name, had just been in a minor collision on the Place de l’Etoile when she noticed a motif adorning the chain around the outside of the Arc de Triomphe. It was a moment that would change the visual identity of her brand forever. Fascinated by the subtle inverted ‘C’ link, Vipiana allegedly reached out to the City of Paris to seek permission to adapt the symbol as her house emblem, and soon, it was emblazoned across labels, on pieces of ready-to-wear clothing and on sought-after bags and accessories.
Celine winter 23
Known then as the ‘Blazon Chaîne’, the symbol quickly gained icon status. Not only did it represent the deep ties between Celine and the city in which it was founded but it also spoke to the maison’s intrinsic spirit of victory and resilience, respect for history and timeless sophistication. It was a subtle marker of status, embodying that simple but undeniable nod to luxury that the French do so well. And it persisted for a number of seasons before eventually (and unfortunately) falling out of Celine’s collections altogether.
In fact, it wasn’t until fairly recently that the Blazon Chaîne was pulled from the archives of Celine to be given a new life as the ‘Triomphe’, gaining fresh meaning in the context of contemporary, 21st Century fashion, and bridging the gap between Celine’s rich history and its hugely impactful role as a forward-thinking player in the industry today.
Celine Victoire bag available in-store at Faradays
Back in 2018, when Hedi Slimane took the reins of Celine, the designer meticulously studied the maison and its origins in search of inspiration for his creative direction. There, in the brand’s archive, he realised that he was sitting on a piece of fashion gold; a symbol that hadn’t been utilised in nearly five decades, but that spoke perfectly to the unique vision that Slimane was bringing to this storied brand.
“The Triomphe emblem offers a perfect balance between the history of Celine… and the idea of commercial iconography that creates sell-out items each season.”
In Celine’s Spring 2019 show, titled ‘Paris La Nuit’, Slimane reintroduced the logo as the ‘Triomphe’ and adorned a series of simple, chic handbags with the icon as a gold clasp, a move that not only reinstated its standing as one of the maison’s central motifs, but that marked the start of what can only be described as the Triomphe era. Truly it was a pivotal, full-circle moment for Celine. The Triomphe exemplified Slimane’s sophisticated eye, as well as his commitment to honouring the brand’s history while anchoring it firmly within the contemporary landscape. With the Triomphe, the designer managed to both reaffirm Celine’s status as a leader in the luxury field, and remind everyone of the richness of its past.
Celine Triomphe cap available in-store at Faradays
It also, almost immediately, birthed a new ‘It’ bag. Very quickly, Slimane’s Triomphe design became one of the fashion set’s most sought-after styles, and since its introduction in 2019, its cache as a coveted symbol for luxury and refined design has only continued to grow.
According to Constance von Dadelszen, Creative Director of Faradays (the exclusive New Zealand stockist of Celine ready-to-wear) the brand’s Triomphe pieces, particularly accessories like belts, and any clothing that features the logo will sell out as soon as they hit the store, von Dadelszen explaining how the Triomphe speaks to such a wide cross-section of their customers and can look as modern as it can classic, depending on who is wearing it and how it is styled. “I think the Triomphe emblem offers a perfect balance between the history of Celine (I have a number of early-era Celine vintage pieces in my collection which feature the marque), and the idea of commercial iconography that creates sell-out items each season.”
Chic, timeless and imbued with history, Celine’s Triomphe logo is more than just an undeniably successful selling point for the brand. It is a symbol of Celine’s values, a representation of its Parisian origins and a testament to the ways in which Hedi Slimane’s clever creative strategy continues to drive the brand forward.
While children’s rooms are often more colourful and chaotic than calm and considered, when it comes to creativity, there’s a place for both. Cultivate a sense of discovery in a space that invites its inhabitants to explore and create in a pared-back setting — providing the canvas for endless imagination.
While you’ll never receive judgement from us for re-watching familiar favourites as the weather cools (we’ve got to find comfort somewhere), there’s something thrilling about discovering a captivating, cerebral or comic new release that gets your mind whirring and provides you with ample water cooler chat. We’ve rounded up an edit of the new films and series that have our attention this week, in a bid to provide you with some inspiration — enjoy.
A Man in Full
Where to watch:Netflix Available to watch:2nd of May
From the Emmy-winning creator of Big Little Lies comes A Man in Full — a star-studded drama based on Tom Wolfe’s novel of the same name. Jeff Daniels stars as Atlanta real estate mogul Charles Croker as he grapples with sudden bankruptcy and seeks to defend his empire against opportunists. Set in a racially diverse, late-century boomtown, Croker navigates his dwindling fortunes, a demanding second wife, and a staggering debt load. The limited series, coming to Netflix this week, offers a nuanced portrayal of Croker as his charisma wanes and allies abandon him. A captivating series which offers a unique satirical reflection on American hubris.
Unfrosted
Where to watch:Netflix Available to watch:3rd of May
Directed and co-written by Jerry Seinfeld, Unfrosted stars a comedic ensemble including Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan, Amy Schumer, and Hugh Grant. Set in 1963 Michigan, amidst a breakfast revolution, the film delves into a cutthroat corporate clash over the invention of a groundbreaking pastry — the Pop-Tart. Seinfeld’s long-standing fascination with the iconic snack finally materialises in this tale of ambition, betrayal, and the quest for breakfast dominance. With witty humour and absurdity, the narrative explores the ridiculousness of grown men in suits obsessing over cereal. Premiering on May 3rd, Unfrosted promises a comedic journey through the evolution of a breakfast staple.
John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s in L.A.
Where to watch:Netflix Available to watch:3rd of May
John Mulaney returns to the stage with his new Netflix live show, Everybody’s in LA. This eagerly anticipated comedy special promises to deliver Mulaney’s signature wit and humour as he navigates the quirks of Los Angeles life. With his sharp observational comedy and knack for storytelling, Mulaney invites audiences into a hilarious exploration of the absurdities of Hollywood culture and everyday experiences, delivering an evening of side-splitting laughter and relatable insights as the comic brings his unique comedic perspective to the stage once again.
The Sympathizer
Where to watch:Neon Available to watch:now
Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name, The Sympathizer stars Robert Downey Jr. as a master of disguise — portraying all of the characters that make up the vague notion of ‘The Man’ in a tale of a Viet Cong spy infiltrating the South Vietnamese community in 1970s Los Angeles. Navigating themes of loyalty, betrayal, and cultural displacement with gripping intensity, this cross-culture satire explores a tapestry of complex characters and historical context, promising a riveting and thought-provoking exploration of self.
Challengers
Where to watch:In cinemas Available to watch:now
In Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers, Zendaya dazzles as Tashi Duncan — a tennis luminary turned coach unapologetically driving her husband’s redemption. Mike Faist portrays her husband, a champion ensnared in a losing spiral, while Josh O’Connor embodies Patrick, his washed-up former friend and Tashi’s ex-lover. As Tashi orchestrates a risky comeback plan, the trio’s intertwined pasts ignite high-stakes confrontations on and off the court. Guadagnino’s signature flair for tension and desire infuses every scene, crafting a fiercely compelling drama. With each volley, Challengers explores the cost of victory, leaving audiences riveted by its sizzling intensity and poignant narrative twists.
If you’re looking for a way to escape the every day, we’ve got just the thing. This edit of new coffee table books is perfect for the escapists amongst us — offering hours of entertainment delighting in fashion, art, travel, and more, all without leaving the comfort of your home. From beautiful imagery to intimate details and untold stories, here are six inspiring coffee table books to acquire now.
Seen through the lens of Oliver Pilcher, this captivating visual journey offers an intimate portrayal of the city that never sleeps. Going beyond New York clichés, the book explores everyday moments and features iconic personalities like Zaldy Goco and Françoise Gilot, giving a glimpse into their creative spaces. Here, Pilcher captures the essence of New York’s diversity, showcasing the metropolis’ sprawling, iconic cityscape through the eyes of artists, writers, designers and chefs who call it home. A vibrant celebration of dreams and possibilities in The Big Apple, New York Chic is a must-have for any well-curated bookshelf.
Take a journey to the most unique, unknown, and remarkable hotels around the world in Secret Stays; an evocative new tome that presents 22 of the world’s most secretive spots. Illustrated by extensive, captivating imagery that celebrates the past and present of each property, within this book you’ll find secluded abbeys, ancient manors, modern homes, larger-than-life mansions, Japanese machiya town houses, and more, accompanied by anecdotes and meaningful insight into the history and best-kept secrets of the properties on the pages.
Delivering behind-the-scenes access to the red carpet looks that made global headlines, Barbie: The World Tour documents the outfits chosen by stylist Andrew Mukamal for Margot Robbie while promoting her groundbreaking film, Barbie. Shot by fashion photographer Craig McDean, Robbie is captured in dazzling outfits, from Schiaparelli to vintage Chanel, showcasing how cleverly Mukamal brought Barbie’s lauded fashion to life. Celebrating the cultural moment of the movie and 65 years of the doll’s captivating legacy, this book is perfect for fashion and Barbie fans alike.
Touted as the definitive exploration of Bulgari’s history of horology and jewellery-inspired creativity, this incredibly detailed and visually stunning book spans over a century of Swiss-Italian watchmaking achievements. Authored by Bulgari’s foremost specialists, Bulgari: Beyond Time comprises captivating illustrations and conversations with key figures, delving into Bulgari’s iconic watch collections to reveal the profound emotional connection each timepiece holds. Insightful essays from global luminaries add depth and cultivate a conversation about the future of watches. Bulgari’s commitment to forging meaningful links across centuries and even, beyond Earth itself.
In this vibrant monograph, explore the tapestry of Julian Schnabel’s artistic universe and his penchant for transforming everyday materials into compelling art. From broken plates to unconventional surfaces like market stall covers, Schnabel’s creativity is famously limitless, and this book offers an intimate portrait of the artist’s unique eye. Whether directing award-winning movies or crafting sculptures, Schnabel’s urgency to infuse life into his work is palpable throughout, making this edition a comprehensive celebration of his multifaceted oeuvre, and a collectable piece indeed.
Chronicling 150 years of maritime excellence, this book (penned by marine journalist Kevin Koenig) celebrates Benetti’s enduring legacy of luxury yacht construction, delving into its evolution from wooden sailing ships to cutting-edge giga-yachts and featuring iconic vessels like El Caran and Nabila. Via exclusive content and unseen photographs, Benetti gives insight into collaborations with renowned designers and prestigious clientele (including Zlatan Ibrahimović), each page reinforcing the brand’s commitment to Italian craftsmanship and sustainability.
For more exclusive access to what the city has to offer, engaging content, excellent imagery and thought provoking commentary on the life that surrounds you, subscribe to Denizen magazine now.
