New & noteworthy this month
Our very Saucey edit on newness in Aotearoa worth discussing and sharing.
Carry Me Home by Tommie Love
This photo book is more than just visuals; it's a profound journey into Wellington, unfolding the unique story of Tommie Love. Collaborating with Ted Whitaker from Black Wax Press, the book delves into various facets of the photographer's life—from Tigray heritage and immigration to New Zealand to finding his voice and the individuals shaping his reality. "Carry Me Home" stands out as one of the first books in New Zealand to explore the African queer story and heritage. Through a chapter series, it meticulously explores queer identity from a New Zealand-African perspective. This monumental and captivating body of work is an important addition to any home library.
Link: Carry Me Home
Guo Pei: Fashion, Art, Fantasy 郭培:时装之幻梦
A highly anticipated international exhibition profiling the work of couture designer Guo Pei
is now on show at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki until May. Drawing her themes from nature, mythology, and European and Asian clothing traditions, Guo Pei will lead viewers on a wondrous journey through dream worlds, magical gardens, and cosmic landscapes.
Guo Pei says, ‘I am delighted that visitors of Auckland Art Gallery will experience my works spanning many years. As visitors walk through the exhibition, I hope they will be able to empathise with how I felt creating these works, as well as my passion towards different cultures all around the world.’
The Yellow Queen gown worn by Rihanna to the 2015 Met Gala is available to view amongst other outfits never seen before in any gallery or museum.
Link: Guo Pei: Fashion, Art, Fantasy 郭培:时装之幻梦
MECCA MAX Off Duty Liquid Blush
Your new favourite no-makeup makeup product is here! Mecca have recently launched their dewy finish, buildable vegan blushes. There is a range of 6 juicy shades to choose from, all infused with niacinamide, squalane and hyaluronic acid for a glowing complexion. The lightweight formula packs a surprising amount of pigment while sinking into the skin seamlessly. The perfect product to extend that summer glow into the colder months.
Letters of Love
It’s time to start thinking about a Valentine’s Day gift for your special other, or your special self. Partridge Jewellers have recently re-launched their Letters of Love collection, just in time for the special day.
The original Letters of Love collection was born in 2015, in white gold with a beautiful pink diamond at the end. The timeless style of these alphabetical designs have now been rendered in a new ‘medium’ size, featuring a yellow gold setting that puts a modern twist on an enduring tradition. The pendants are also available to personalise by selecting from a range of precious-coloured stones for a truly unique gift. The collection is now available at Partridge Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and online.
The Nightcar Lounge Bar and Restaurant
This underground spot on Queen Street is the newest addition to Auckland’s nightlife. The Nightcar serve carefully curated cocktails and flavours from north of the Yangtze River late into the night. They have a shareable menu with some noodle dishes, cold and hot bites, vegetarian and meat options. Their sophisticated interior and dim lighting create an intimate atmosphere. The spacious lounge area is a good place to sit back and relax while the bar seating would make the perfect date spot.
Link: The Nightcar
Dr. Martens Gothic Americana Collection
Your favourite leather shoes just got a western, 80s gothic upgrade. Dr. Martens have recently launched their Gothic Americana collection. Created in collaboration with musical artist Denzel Himself the Goth Cowboy the collection features contrast white stitch designs and gunmetal hardware on pure black leather. We are big fans of the elevated versions of their classic and archival silhouettes. Available online now.
Nature as Home Collection by Kowtow
Plastic does not ever go away. After a 17-year journey of pioneering sustainable New Zealand fashion Kowtow goes 100% plastic-free with their new collection. It has been a long and difficult journey. Some popular products had to be discontinued, the buttons containing resin had to be replaced with natural ones made out of shell or metal, the zippers had to go, and the industry-standard synthetic elastic was replaced with natural rubber encased in organic cotton. The team’s efforts have paid off since the garments in this collection can be safely returned to the earth without harm.
Under a simple slogan – Wear Nature. Not Plastic. – Kowtow encourage us to make better fashion choices.
Image from https://heartofthecity.co.nz
New Christian Louboutin Boutique
Last month the iconic fashion brand opened its first store in Auckland. Established in Paris in 1991 Christian Louboutin quickly became synonymous with beautifully handcrafted luxury footwear. Have you been dreaming about trying on a pair of red bottoms? Now is the time.
