April is a strange month when it comes to weather – awkwardly straddling summer and autumn with elements of each thrown joyously into the mix on any given day.
It’s most definitely leaning towards autumn though, and dressing for autumn is never as simple as it first seems.
Just as you've gotten excited about new chunky knits and snuggly coats, the unpredictable New Zealand weather will come back at you with a mini heatwave.
It’s hard to know what to wear when you’re leaving the house in the morning - coat or no coat? How many layers are too many layers? Thankfully, two of Auckland’s most stylish women are on hand to lend their advice.
Fleur Clarke, Designer and Founder, REINE
From her elegant Herne Bay atelier, Fleur creates some of the industry’s most show-stopping pieces with a ‘less is more’ approach always top of mind.
Formally trained, the designer took a break from the industry after 12 years patternmaking for local couture and high-end fashion houses, returning to launch REINE last year to huge acclaim. I own one of her trenches that has been on high-rotate since I bought it and it never fails to impress.
You have created more than a few beautiful variations on the classic trench – what is it about the piece that has you so captivated?
We all know that the trench is literally a timeless and versatile garment, and rightly so. No fuss, limitless wardrobe coordination, transcends trends, has some very cool cinematic and fashion history… and it looks just as great ‘off the clock’ as it does cosmopolitan chic.
Trans seasonal dressing is all about a seriously fabulous coat (or two). What are two styles you have created for this coming season that you are particularly in love with, and why?
My everyday allrounder would have to be the Carine Trench, which was the second garment I designed before we launched. I literally needed this trench so badly in my wardrobe.
The cocoon silhouette can look contemporary, fresh and preppy, or minimalist depending on what you pair it with. I love the 3/4 sleeve because I don’t feel I need to take the coat off once inside, and the new khaki colourway proved to be a pre-launch hit before our new collection was available, it’s a standout piece.
Next on my list would have to be the Nina Coat – an absolute showstopper. I originally designed a rendition of this in the late 80s, and still love the strong collar, drop shoulder, batwing sleeve and cocoon silhouette.
What do you think is key to nailing every day and event dressing given our continually unpredictable weather?
Knowing you have pieces that will co-ordinate – an absolute must. When I am designing, I’m literally asking myself: “Can I wear it to work, going out, walking to Prego, walking the dog?” So, if the style doesn’t tick at least 8/10 of my criteria, it doesn’t make the cut (excuse the pun).
Not having too much to choose from is also key: literally picking your garments well, and buying the best quality you can afford.
You make to order - why did you decide to do that rather than just fill a rack or two?
Within ten days of launching REINE, our business model changed from ‘taking pre-orders on our curated collection’ to completely selling off the samples, and customising to a client’s proportions and measurements. Why? Well one size does not fit all. And boy was that obvious.
From day one, we had customers and stylists bringing in their clients, who had wardrobes full of clothes that they just didn’t wear. The feedback was that their clothes didn’t fit or the fabrics weren’t quite right, so they never felt or looked great in them. Many had been buying off the rack, then organising some extensive and costly alterations; most just gave up and added to their wardrobe graveyard.
Couture patternmaking, tailoring and high-end traditional construction are literally my skill-set and in my comfort zone, so here we are eight months in and meeting the demand.
Rickie Dee, co-owner and founder, Superette
Since opening its first store in Freemans Bay more than 20 years ago, the Superette brand has soared. There are now nine stores throughout New Zealand, with two stores in Ponsonby - Superette, located at 282 Ponsonby Road and the new flagship Superette International.
The person responsible for much of the brand’s success is the always-chic Rickie, whose passion for fashion and impeccable eye for anticipating trends is second to none.
How would you describe Superette International, and how does it compare to Superette?
The Superette International concept was born in 2019. There were so many amazing brands we wanted to house and we were running out of room within the four walls of our current stores to stock any more.
There were a number of brands outside of Australasia that had taken our fancy – the likes of Proenza Schouler, Rohe, Helmut Lang, Maison Kitsune, JW Anderson – so we came up with a model that resulted in a new store concept, but one that still complemented our original Superette offering. We liked the idea that our customer could then shop between both stores and have a different experience at both.
What trends are you seeing that are key to effortless autumn dressing?
We’re seeing a lot of knitwear coming through in bold, beautiful colours. The pencil skirt is also a big trend at the moment. The midi length is strong this season and skirts featuring cargo elements are on trend. Denim in general is also really strong this year. There’s been a shakeup in shapes and silhouettes too, with full-length denim styles having a moment over the cropped length which was previously the most popular.
Oversized blazers are still very much here to stay. There are so many beautiful blazers across both Superette and Superette International that are perfect for Autumn dressing.
What key pieces do you think work best for trans seasonal dressing?
You really can’t go wrong with a blazer and denim. It’s the no-fail option. Pair with a fitted tank underneath for the warmer days, or a beautiful chunky knit for the cooler days and you’re good to go. Wearing a blazer instantly elevates your look, and a great pair of jeans does really go with anything and everything.
What are some favourite pieces in your wardrobe at the moment?
I’m loving the La Tribe x Superette Frankie Knee High Boot - it’s such a fun style with a few western styling details. These boots have been my go-to at the moment to wear to any occasion. I’m also really into the Charlotte Trench from Superette, a classic staple piece that goes with everything and is ideal for transitioning into the cooler months. I also find myself constantly wearing the Silk Laundry Bias Cut Pants – they’re so easy and lightweight to wear yet add an element of luxe. (HELENE RAVLICH)