One of the positive things that has come out of the horrible global pandemic we are all facing right now is the overwhelming groundswell of support for local businesses.

Back in Australia (and actually when I moved here too) I worked for a proudly Australian-owned and Australian-made brand, Sacha Drake for many many years. It’s where much of the knowledge I use in both styling and running a business come from (thanks Sacha, you’re still one of the best). So the yearn to support and promote local business (both here and in Aus) has always been strong for me.

So with all that is going on with our local economy, I REALLY wanted to showcase some of my favourite local brands, but also explain how “shop local” can mean several different things. I’ve written a trio of blogs for you – one showcasing brands made in NZ, one showcasing brands owned by New Zealanders and one showcasing small local retailer stores here in NZ. I’ll release one each week for the next 3 weeks.

This first blog is all about New Zealand MADE. It’s so awesome to see brands really passionate about getting their products made here in Aoteoroa, it’s not always the easiest thing to do. I love that these brands have ‘made in NZ’ as part of their ethos, supporting so many amazing local seamstresses, and cutters and pattern-makers – skills that are slowing dying in this country of ours!

So here are some of my faves, I’d love to hear of any others that you know too!

HARRIE & SAM.

If you’re a regular reader of the blog, you’ll recognise this as one of my ALL TIME favourite brands. I love their ethos – they care about the environment, making their garments to order, so less waste, they are proud to be a kiwi business, and support other local businesses from photographers, to graphic designers (to stylists).

All the garments are made to order and you can pre-order every second weekend. All you have to do is choose your shape, choose your colour and choose your size.

THE DETAILS:

Website: www.harrieandsam.co.nz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harrieandsamnz/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harrieandsamnz/

KILT

One of the stalwarts of NZ made fashion. The design team put so much of their heart and soul into creating, fit-testing and making each garment, you can really tell that the brand has a heart.  They are so passionate about keeping the brand made in NZ, they opened their very own factory in Napier in 2015.

THE DETAILS:

Website: www.kiltonline.co.nz/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/KiltClothing/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kiltclothing/

DERYN SCHMIDT

Not only is Deryn just a REALLY lovely person, she is literally THE person behind the label. She can often be found cutting patterns, or altering garments right on the shop floor.

Her commitment to tailoring and design is evident, her shapes are about flattering the body, not following the trends and for a Wellington designer, her clothes are surprisingly colourful haha.

THE DETAILS:

Website: derynschmidt.co.nz/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DerynSchmidt/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/derynschmidt/

OTHER HONOURABLE MENTIONS

Here are some more amazing labels that are made in NZ. Make sure you go and check them out and show you the love

• Carly Harris
• Ruby & Rain
• Staple & Cloth
• Rhind
• White Chalk
• Clothing by Desiree

I know I’ve just touched on a few of the amazing brands still made here is NZ, but it’s a start right? Have you discovered any amazing NZ brands? Tell me in the comments below so we can share the love!

Until Next Time, In Love & Style Always