It has been some time since blazers were solely reserved for suiting, with tweaks in tailoring making the simple jacket one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe. Whether your shoulder is dropped, sharp or somewhere in between, the right blazer is an utterly chic way to dress up or down an outfit just the right amount.
Pair these perfect pinstripes with jeans and a basic white tee, or for a look more arresting, opt for a double-breasted version with little else on underneath. The right blazer is a timeless addition, and it is one that our editors simply can’t get enough of.
Aside from the usual suspects, here are the blazers we’re currently coveting from the world’s luxury labels, as well as some found a little closer to home.
From the left: HELEN CHERRY RAE PINSTRIPE BLAZER from workshop. Single-breasted pinstripe jacket from Prada. ISABEL MARANT Nevim double-breasted pinstriped crepe blazer from net-a-porter. Herringbone wool jacket from Gucci. Acne Studios Oversized flannel pinstripe jacket fromWorkshop.
From the left: anine bing KAIA BLAZER from Muse Boutique. BOTTEGA VENETA Oversized double-breasted blazer from net-a-porter. Saint Laurent Fall 22. CROPPED TUXEDO BLAZER from balenciaga. CROPPED JACKET IN CHEVRON TWEED from Saint Laurent.
From the left: Louis Vuitton Fall 22. Anine Bing Sonora Blazer from Muse Boutique. ACNE STUDIOS Twill blazer from net-a-porter. helena Double-breasted blazer from Dadelszen. BITE STUDIOS WOOL BLAZER from Workshop.
After work drinks have never looked so good, as Auckland’s newest bar and dining destination opens in the iconic 1 Albert Street building, offering a positively elevated outlook on the city.
Palmer is the final step in the reimagining of this historic site (once West Plaza), which has undergone an impressive transformation over the last few years with help from the original architect, Neville Price. The 1970’s architectural facade has been given a modern facelift and a fit-out suited to more contemporary purposes.
Forming a core part of the Alberts portfolio — currently comprising five locations around Auckland’s CBD and offering aspirational workplaces, hospitality and a private members club — Palmer is promising sophisticated dining akin to something you might find overseas. And after an exciting build-up to its opening, we can tell you that the experience certainly lives up to the hype.
From left: Smoked Kahawai croquettes with seaweed tartare and chives, Bavette steak with black garlic, celeriac and native herbs.
Inspired by the aesthetic of Fred’s in Sydney and The Aviary in New York, Palmer’s fit-out was conceived by renowned Australian studio, ACME (its first project in New Zealand). Taking modernist design cues from the likes of Palm Springs (and aiming to capture a bit of that city’s fun vibe, too) the interior marries a palette of warm, earthy tones with teal and fresh mint greens that breathe life into the sandy Californian tiles, elegantly-curved wooden panels and sumptuous booth seating.
Interiors by ACME.
Whether you’re seeking a cosy, after-work drink or a convivial catch up with friends, Palmer’s inviting interior gives way to a sweeping terrace that provides the perfect alfresco spot to revel in a beautiful afternoon. And even as the sun goes down and the chill sets in, a roaring fire will take centre-stage outdoors, offering night-long warmth for those who choose to indulge in another round.
In fact, another round will be hard to turn down with a drinks menu that harnesses some of the region’s best produce and seasonal flavours. Those seeking an after-work tipple or a nightcap will be able to reach for a curated selection of local beverages and delicious cocktails, that, as Bar Manager Nathan Cooper explains, focus on local and sustainable practices.
“The idea of sustainability that Palmer was designed with, extends to the drinks menu where we source from local suppliers and reduce waste by utilising every part of our ingredients,” Cooper shares. “Patrons of Palmer can look forward to cocktails that embrace seasonal ingredients like Manuka, which is expressed in three unique forms across three cocktails. The Manuka Martini, Kiwi Coffee and Rosie’s (named after the wife of Neville Price) which showcases local gin 1919, Earthbound Manuka Honey, grapefruit, lime and bitters.”
At the helm of Palmer’s culinary offering is James Kenny (ex-Gerome), a New Zealand chef that has made his mark leading esteemed kitchens in both New Zealand and at lauded international restaurants such as Copenhagen’s The Pescatarian and the globally renowned Noma. At Palmer, his food speaks to a more casual, contemporary approach, and will bring elemental, hand-made, seasonal experiences to the table.
“My cooking philosophy has and always will be, to keep it simple. Cook with care and finesse and have respect and understanding for the ingredients you are using,” reflects Kenny.
From left: Kefalograviera cheese with peppered figs, Palmer’s Executive Chef James Kenny.
The end result, a culinary destination with a stunning design and unbeatable outlook, is a place just as suited to after-work drinks as it is to impressing a first date or heading out for a fun night with friends. Thanks to the meticulously considered design, it feels decidedly Sydney-meets-New-York, and we’re only too grateful that it has finally opened its doors.
Opening hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 3pm – 10pm Friday and Saturday, 3pm – midnight Sunday – Tuesday closed
For the last two years, we retreated from international pursuits, with holidays to exotic destinations a long forgotten pleasure. But fear not, because during our absence, an abundance of new resorts have opened, promising to once again inspire the freedom of travel.
One&Only Portonovi.
One&Only PortonoviMontenegro A crown jewel in the Montenegro Riviera, One&Only Portonovi is a divine new opening in Eastern Europe. The stately residence is palace-like in scale, and takes advantage of its spectacular coastline, reminiscent of the Mediterranean and interwoven with delicate fjords. Offering rooms, suites and One&Only’s signature villas, the beautifully-finished accommodation is just the beginning of what’s to come. With four restaurants, the option of private dining and notable wellness experiences, this sublime summer destination is sure to leave you feeling entirely rejuvenated.
Six Senses Ibiza.
Six Senses IbizaSpain Forget any preconceived notions that Ibiza is purely the place one goes to party — there is another side to this island that is focused on calm relaxation and a return to wellbeing. The welcome addition of Six Senses to Ibiza allows visitors a place to sit back and unwind or (if partying has been on the agenda) a place to detox in paradise. More than just somewhere to rest your head; the resort is almost village-like in nature, with an affinity for deep spiritual experiences rooted in the local culture, and plenty of opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the music, art, fashion, wellness and spirituality that has become synonymous with the island.
Kalesma Mykonos.
Kalesma MykonosGreece At home on the cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea, Kalesma is a boutique hotel that revives the Mykonian spirit. It is a space where classic Greek tranquillity meets contemporary design and inspiration. Here, accommodations are limited so as to offer exceptional sea views, private heated pools and outdoor spaces for all. Part hotel, part oasis, Kalesma is home to beautiful Mediterranean dining, includes a private chapel for those looking to elope, and lies on the doorstep of some of the world’s most remarkable beaches. The only challenge will be leaving the compound in order to discover them all.
White Pebble Suites Milos.
White Pebble Suites MilosGreece Perched on a cliff on the edge of Milos, on the cusp of the Myrtoan Sea, lies White Pebble Suites — an outpost that has been patiently awaiting the arrival of guests since opening last year. Here, the boutique hotel exists as an ode to Greek Island hospitality and luxury, with an architectural approach that reflects centuries past in a contemporary light. White Pebble Suites is home to a refined wellness menu, with favourites including the poolside massage service, and offers a myriad of adventurous experiences for those wishing to travel further than the resort itself.
Borgo Santandrea Amalfi Coast.
Borgo Santandrea Amalfi CoastItaly No European sojourn would be complete without a stay at the gateway to the Mediterranean — the Amalfi Coast. Borgo Santandrea is a 5-star luxury hotel, carved into the coastline with panoramic views over the sparkling waters. With fewer than 40 rooms, a stay here feels authentic, private and undeniably luxurious, complete with an endless roster of dining experiences and its very own beach club, where spritzes are consumed, a private beach within reach and the dock mere steps away — offering the ocean’s activities on a platter.
A hotly-contested category, this year’s Best for Brunch was almost too close to call — with a number of Auckland’s most popular cafes vying for top spot. In the end, Grey Lynn’s Honey Bones claimed the win for its well-balanced menu and lively vibe. Hot on its heels were Wynyard Quarter go-to Williams Eatery, Grey Lynn’s Ozone Coffee Roasters (long drawing the crowds with its specialty java and classic brunch dishes), Morningside’s neighbourhood favourite, Crave and Newmarket’s The Candy Shop, thanks to its unique take on the brunch we know and love.
The 2022 Denizen Hospo Heroes is brought to you by American Express. Wining and dining your way around Auckland’s top restaurants (as voted by you), has never been easier thanks to American Express’s new Gold Rewards Cards. Find out more here.
Nestled in the heart of Herne Bay, the beloved-by-locals restaurant Andiamohas been hailed as Auckland’s Best Neighbourhood Eatery. While notable competitors include Parnell’s modern Italian go-to, Non Solo Pizza, Grey Lynn’s Lilian, cult-favourite Ada and cosy Northcote stalwart,The Engine Room, Andiamo is a deserving winner for the way it caters tirelessly to its community, and makes casual midweek dinners as special as romantic evenings out.
The 2022 Denizen Hospo Heroes is brought to you by American Express. Wining and dining your way around Auckland’s top restaurants (as voted by you), has never been easier thanks to American Express’s new Gold Rewards Cards. Find out more here.
While it is always worth rounding up the newest TV shows to hit our screens, it would be remiss of us to leave out our all-time favourites, still producing season after excellent season. From Peaky Blinders’ swan song to another instalment of The Boys (starring our very own Karl Urban and Antony Starr), if you are yet to watch these shows, consider this a reminder to start now. And with multiple seasons to get into, they are the perfect long weekend watches.
Peaky Blinders It’s a bittersweet year for Peaky Blinders fans. Season six — the first to grace our screens since the beginning of the pandemic — is also going to mark the end of the much-loved series. Set against the complicated geopolitical climate of WWII and with all the style and drama we have come to expect from this show, the final season has one major question hanging over it: Will this mean the end for the inimitable Thomas Shelby? Watch on Netflix from the 10th of June
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMIdScgVZSM
OnlyMurders In The Building True-crime-podcasters-turned-prime-suspects Oliver, Charles and Mabel are the talk of the town in Only Murders in the Building Season two. Following a new mystery, with the same cast as the popular first season (Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez), you won’t be able to get enough. Watch on Disney+from the 28th of June
The Boys Starring our very own Karl Urban and Antony Starr, season three of The Boys arrives in early June, promising all the violent chaos we’ve come to love from this show. Putting a new spin on traditional superhero theatrics, the latest season dives deeper into the troublesome web of lies and intrigue our anti-heroes are weaving for themselves. Watch on Amazon Prime
Tehran Taking audiences on a deep dive into the complicated politics of the Middle East, Tehran’s second season premiered earlier this month with returning cast members alongside Academy Award-nominee Glenn Close, and follows Tamar, who remains a hidden spy in Iran, performing different missions for the Mossad. Watch on Apple TV+
The Flight Attendant Comedic darling Kaley Cuoco returns as Cassie for the second season of fan-favourite, The Flight Attendant, which was released on Neon last month. As some of the first season’s cliffhangers are answered, more questions continue to be raised — with Cassie’s foray into sobriety proving more of a challenge than initially thought. Watch on Neon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yx6AS0zzfGM
Barry Over its two seasons, Bill Hader’s (very) dark comedy Barry has built a stellar storyline around his discharged-marine-turned-hitman protagonist, Barry. With the much-anticipated third season having just aired after a three-year wait, we’re enjoying indulging in a little borderline humour. Watch on Neon
Ghosts Starring the incredible Rose McIver, Ghosts Season two is high on our watch list. The BBC comedy brings some of the best of British humour and talent and follows a collection of ghosts from different historical periods who haunt a country house that has just had some new (living) occupants move in. Reminiscent of Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice and the ever-cool Rocky Horror Picture Show, this is avant-garde spook at its kookiest. Watch onTVNZ on Demand
There’s something about Devonport that just has our heart, from the stunning sundowner outlook it offers of the city to its cute, quaint cottages to the restaurants that inhabit the main street. For many city-slickers, a trip here feels like a holiday, when it’s really only a short (and beautiful) ferry ride across the harbour.
All the more reason to engage this mode of public transport is for a few tipples at Vic Road Wine Bar & Cellar, one of the more recent additions to Devonport’s burgeoning dining scene, and an utterly cool one at that.
Sister to the always-popular Vic Road Kitchen, this wine bar iteration is a concept simplified; good wines, simple snacks and convivial company. Where this venue is making its mark on hearts everywhere is the wine list, serving an ever-changing array of interesting and inspired drops alongside an impressive retail range. So, on the odd occasion that nothing on the wine list fits the bill, you can choose a bottle from the store’s seemingly endless shelves.
Locals know the beloved spot, too; formerly Thompson’s Shoes, it’s a site where the owners (and many others in the suburb) would go to purchase their school shoes at the end of summer. Honouring the space’s 80-year history in this retail niche, much of the fit-out has remained the same. As a lockdown project, renovations began to re-purpose old shoe shop shelving and original wood wall planking. Notes of old existing brickwork lend a decidedly under-the-radar air, and the stained-glass windows and hedged courtyard are almost reminiscent of the European holiday we’re all craving right now.
We think a spot like this is effortlessly cool and a real gem in the Auckland hospitality scene, and it is one definitely worth visiting over the long weekend.
One glance at the kitchen of the Balmoral residence by Melbourne architectural firm Tecture doesn’t give much away. The open space features a generous island bench made from undulating marble, a handy butler’s pantry and touches of timber and brass that offer an immediate, welcoming warmth; but as far as its more functional aspects, a closer look is required.
As in the rest of the house, there has been an old-meets-new design philosophy applied in the kitchen. Here, Tecture honoured the home’s mid-century origins while ensuring that nothing was overlooked when it came to the necessary accoutrements of this, ultimately functional, space. Curvy motifs, walnut joinery and oak floors are set against a clean, neutral palette, while a suite of refined Fisher & Paykel appliances disappear into the marble benchtops and panelled walls, almost invisible until needed.
From Fisher & Paykel’s innovative range, Tecture’s clients selected two black minimal-style self-cleaning ovens, an induction cooktop with integrated rangehood, an integrated French-door refrigerator and freezer (complete with circular brass handles that echo the curves of the central island) and an integrated dishwasher. The design team recommended Fisher & Paykel for the way its products can so easily be integrated into any kind of space, knowing that the Balmoral residence would require appliances that didn’t disrupt the kitchen’s flow. In fact, it is this exact feature of Fisher & Paykel products that make them so universally appealing to architects and designers. Their minimal aesthetic, versatility and functionality allow for sophisticated kitchen spaces to be fully realised.
There is an effortlessness to the way this kitchen has been finished that fits the mid-century mood of the rest of the home. Combining simple lines with sumptuous materials and a layout that is practical for a growing family, the space exudes quiet sophistication and sits as the perfect centrepiece within this beautifully-appointed residence.
Auckland is a city of vast and diverse culinary offerings, from high-end haute cuisine to hole-in-the-wall eateries serving up cheap and cheerful eats. For those desiring the latter — good food that doesn’t break the bank — the impressive entries in our Best Cheap and Cheerful category will tantalise your taste buds without emptying your wallet.
Those familiar with Eden Noodlesand its queues that regularly spill out the door won’t be surprised that it was voted Best Cheap and Cheerful in Auckland. Other deserving places that keep our wallets and stomachs full includeChop Chop (thanks to its mouth-watering ramen), Umu Pizza(where specially-fermented bases are dressed with delicious toppings), Fatima’s (the go-to for a fuss-free, flavourful bite) and Fishsmith (Herne Bay’s ever-popular fish and chippery).
The 2022 Denizen Hospo Heroes is brought to you by American Express. Wining and dining your way around Auckland’s top restaurants (as voted by you), has never been easier thanks to American Express’s new Gold Rewards Cards. Find out more here.
Fashion now is all about versatility and getting the most out of our wardrobes. Increasingly, pieces need to be more than just one thing (the formal blazer worn over athleisure, for example, or the everyday sneakers paired with a feminine dress). Here we round up some classically sporty styles that have been given the high-fashion treatment and put cool twist on comfort — destined to look as at home with your sleek work outfits as they will with your weekend wardrobe.
Clockwise from top left:GG jersey jacquard top from Gucci, Track Sneakers from Balenciaga, Rodebjer Agapita down jacket from Muse, NagnataRomeo Track Pantsfrom Muse, Vibe Sneakers from Dior, The Row Caspian silk-piqué baseball cap from Net-a-porter, Loewe Long Hooded Parka from Faradays, Oblique Skort from Dior. Center: Miu Miu Fall 2022.
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