Web Only: Five Style Finds

Quirky, collectible and covetable... Fashion editor Tracey Strange compiles August’s style file.

Meadowlark Jewellery

If you are looking for a present with a lovely twist, visit www.meadowlark.co.nz. The brainchild of designer Claire Hammond, the brand takes traditionally feminine imagery – lark and wings for example – and gives it a darker edge. The latest collection is called ‘Twilight in November’ and plays on rock ‘n’ roll and biker motifs. The pretty-but-edgy pieces are available in silver, and yellow and white gold and include black sapphires, smoky quartz and blue topaz.

Cavalier’s Carpetbag

Calling all collectibles-lovers... Cavalier Bremworth has joined with Saben designer Roanne Jacobson to create an exclusive limited-edition (only 50) carpetbag made from the company’s new, chunky, loop-pile carpet, Tussore. It’s a cute idea that definitely encourages me to take a closer look at the carpet. While the covetable bags aren’t widely available, two will be auctioned in Auckland on August 26 at the Cavalier Bremworth Art of Glass Awards, with proceeds going to Kidz First.

An eye on the trends

Fans of fashions for the face will be interested in OPSM’s Spring/Summer eyewear collection, frames directly influenced by the season’s fashion fabrics and colour palettes. Pink, plum, red and cream are key shades for frames, with stranger accents of gold and black. To match the season’s hot safari look, you’ll also find tones of khaki, olive gold and bronze.  Tortoiseshell – a classic staple in your specs wardrobe – is also big news. Stockists nationwide.

Richard Moore

In the market for some contemporary resortwear? Take a look at Richard Moore. His latest collection may be influenced by what’s going on in the street but it’s surprisingly versatile and easy to wear. Now in its fourth year, the label – which comes out of the Caroline Sills stable – is modern, interesting and big on quality. Pieces, such as shirtdresses, zipped jackets, superfine knit dresses and layered and gathered skirts, are fun, quirky and perfect for dressed up days at the beach.

Avokado

If you are either blessed with a big bust – or know someone who is – you’ll appreciate how difficult it can be to find swimwear and underwear that looks great and is robust enough to flatter your shape. Just opened in Auckland’s Newmarket is Avokado, a new shop offering a large range of styles in sizes D cup through to JJ, with back sizes from a size 8. It was opened by Claire Long with the ideal of supplying gorgeous lingerie to women of all shapes and sizes. “Avokado is a one-stop shop for women who share the same frustrations I did. I put a particular emphasis on fitting women properly, because I’ve found an astonishing number of women over the years wearing the wrong size bra without realising it,” she says.

“We want to help women make the most of their assets. Fit is important, but so is having underwear you really like – it has to be comfortable but pretty.”

You can find Avokado in Auckland’s Nuffield Street, or visit www.avokado.co.nz.