Innholdsfortegnelse for Winter 2023 i Fashion Quarterly

As I write this, I’m 12,496m up in the air, flying over the Aegean Sea en route to Dubai, before my final leg home to Auckland. I’ve been on a work trip to France, one of the most fashionable places on Earth, where I visited Coco Chanel’s original 1918 maison in Paris’s fabled rue Cambon, and experienced a once-in-a-lifetime dinner in a Versailles-like château in the centre of the perfume industry, Grasse, on the French Riviera. It seems fitting that as we put the finishing touches on our Winter Wanderlust issue, I’m returning to my desk overflowing with inspiration. Like me, our fashion editorials have gone global for this edition. Our cover shoot took place in the heart of New York, with a crew comprising almost entirely of Kiwis who’ve…

Directly inside the nondescript door behind which designer Hannah-Lee Jade’s sunlit studio on Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland’s Karangahape Road hides, there’s a rack stacked with pieces from her current collection, Revive, juxtapositions composed entirely from repurposed waste fabric. Today, she’s wearing one herself, a pair of ‘Basalt’ trousers that were reworked from two pairs of suit pants. Topping off her look with a vintage Zambesi top, a cardigan that belonged to her great-grandmother and a pair of bright-red Prada ‘Cloudburst’ sneakers, it’s obvious she has a penchant for unique combinations. Amid periods of time spent overseas working for other labels, Jade (pictured opposite) has been running her eponymous brand for a decade now. Since officially moving back to New Zealand in 2020, she’s continued to work on her own designs and produce…

“The roses are blue; the wood is of glass.” This fanciful thinking comes from André Breton’s 1924 Manifesto of Surrealism, but it could well be a fashion insider’s prediction for what we’ll see on the coming season’s runways — at Schiaparelli, Loewe or Moschino, perhaps. French writer and poet Breton penned his theory to rattle the “rational logic” of his time. Daydreaming and detaching yourself from daily life, making it seem strange, made complete sense to his peers. “I believe in the future resolution of these two states, dream and reality, which are seemingly so contradictory, into a kind of absolute reality, a surreality.” It seemed the right reaction when reality was insanity. “Surrealism was an art movement that grew out of the horrors of the First World War in…

Ode to joy Making her anticipated return to Afterpay Australian Fashion Week, Maggie Hewitt debuted the latest collection for her label Maggie Marilyn, The Best of It, in a show held in seaside Sydney suburb Rushcutters Bay. Designed during one of Aotearoa’s wettest summers, the captivating range pays homage to carefree summers past and the best of times spent at sailing clubs, while conveying an unwavering optimism for things to come. Reflecting on her motivations, Hewitt said, “That summer reminded me of my childhood largely spent on, in and near the ocean — even on its worst days — dipping in and out of local Bay of Islands sailing clubs with my three sisters. [They’re] places so steeped in nostalgia that within them time stands still, and frequented by those…

I’ll be honest – the lines around my eyes have started to bother me. Sure, I know they represent happy memories formed from a lifetime of smiles, surprise and delight, but when I see them, I feel old — or older, at least. Wanting to see what could be done, I decided to consult the experts, and found myself at The Face Place in Takapuna, Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland for a consultation. After meeting with a senior cosmedicine nurse she recommended the clinic’s Bright Eyes package ($3290), a series of three platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments designed to thicken and improve the skin around the eyes, plus a dermal filler treatment to reduce under-eye hollows. It’s all intended to make the area look brighter and, as my nurse said, “more rested”. PART ONE…

Like many women over the age of 35, give me a product containing ingredients from the retinoid family and I’ll likely give it a go. The vitamin A derivatives are known to speed up cell turnover, boost collagen production and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, so when I was given the opportunity to try Murad’s new Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment, described by some as a “miracle in a bottle”, I was game. WAIT, WHAT? Although they sound similar, retinol and retinal are not to be confused. Both in the retinoid family, they need to convert into retinoic acid before they can create change. A major difference between them is that retinal only converts once, whereas retinol converts twice. It’s this critical process and the shorter time it takes to convert…

True that Personalised beauty products are becoming more and more of a thing, and here’s one of the latest. Heralded as a self-tan game-changer, Bondi Sands Technocolor ($32) has been developed using laser technology that analyses the skin’s ability to process self-tanning ingredients. Broken into different base tones (Cool, Olive, Golden, Deep), it enhances the melatonin in your skin for a more tailored tan that’s a closer match to your true hue. Light touch Strengthening your skin’s barrier function will help to protect your complexion from external aggressors and moisture loss, and Elizabeth Arden’s new Advanced Light Ceramide Capsules ($169) are among the ultimate options for doing so. They deliver a fast-absorbing serum that also promises to balance your skin and reduce the appearance of pores, plus the biodegradable capsules…

Attendees at the Versace Fall 2023 show held in Los Angeles earlier this year were hard-pressed to spot a Medusa head; the Italian house’s famous logo featured only subtly on buttons and earrings. The clean lines of the rooftop of West Hollywood’s Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood provided the backdrop for a collection that echoed the building’s minimalist form. Instead of Versace’s typical more-is-more offering, celebrity guests (including Elton John, Dua Lipa and Cher) saw sharply tailored suits, streamlined dresses, denim and eveningwear that was glamorous yet restrained. Although sculptural, even the sweeping, floor-length gowns featured a painterly polka-dot print that felt surprisingly demure when styled with satin gloves that hit just below the elbow. “I wanted to go back to the cut and shape of the clothes, to…

When mother-and-daughter duo Debby and Abby Quinn acquired Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland floristry business Wildly Madly Deeply five years ago, their true love for flowers saw their enterprise grow exponentially. Their recent expansion into online delivery brings bespoke floral arrangement to doorsteps all over the region, while their event and wedding planning provides a flourishing, full-service experience for corporate clients and couples. Here, Abby shares some insights into their petal-powered process. We love purchasing flowers from local growers and visiting the flower markets. We work with brokers and growers, and pick carefully from the selection they have available on any given day. It’s a daily task to ensure the flowers we have for our bouquets are as fresh as possible. There are so many elements that need to be considered when creating…

In late January, Jacinda Ardern announced she’d be stepping down from her role as Prime Minister, effective as of February 7. She had just nine months left of her term before the general election set to take place in October. “With holding such a privileged role comes responsibility, including the responsibility to know when you’re the right person to lead, and also when you’re not,” said Ardern to the press. “I have given my absolute all to being Prime Minister but it has also taken a lot out of me. You cannot and should not do the job unless you have a full tank, plus a bit in reserve for those unplanned and unexpected challenges that inevitably come along. Having reflected over summer, I know I no longer have that…

THE SHORT STORIES The Waters CARL NIXON Award-winning New Zealand novelist Carl Nixon’s series of short stories traces the trials of familial love for the three Waters children between 1979 and 2029. It begins when their father sells the farm and invests the family’s money in a doomed property development in Christchurch and continues as a story of how early trauma impacts us throughout our adult lives, and whether failure is a legacy we inherit or something we can forgive and overcome. THE COMEDY Big Swiss JEN BEAGIN Take a break from worrying about the world’s afflictions with this off-beat love story filled with humour. It follows New Yorker Greta, who’s employed to transcribe a sex therapist’s sessions from home and falls in love with a client (well, the idea…

The first thing I noticed when flying into Hawke’s Bay was the flatness — square after square of land sliced into slabs housing the region’s many orchards and vineyards — some, since the floods, reduced to patches of muddy-brown nothingness. The purpose of my getaway was to showcase the vibrancy of this beautiful part of the country, but with those obliterated acres a poignant reminder, it’d be remiss not to touch on the devastation caused by February’s Cyclone Gabrielle. Everyone here has a story to tell. At Craggy Range winery’s cellar door, I start with a wine tour, and while I sip their impeccable chardonnay, the sommelier tells how although their land didn’t suffer during the cyclone and subsequent flooding, meaning they could still have remained open to the public,…

STAY The historic Bowery neighbourhood in Lower Manhattan is renowned for its music and arts scene, and I love The Bowery Hotel. The rooms are small (it’s New York!) but you can always tell a good hotel by its bathrooms, and the one in my room was decorated with The Bowery’s signature red accents. SUP When it comes to dining, Estela in Nolita is a must-visit. This intimate eatery features a delectable menu that champions seasonal ingredients and inventive flavour combinations. This is where we chose to celebrate Yu Mei’s launch into Bergdorf’s with friends old and new. SHOP Speaking of, Bergdorf Goodman is the department store par excellence. A fashion institution since 1899, it offers the latest in design, including Yu Mei, which can be found on the fifth…

STAY Although Positano’s not exactly synonymous with budget-friendly options, rest assured that you can still experience the incredible Amalfi Coast without straining your wallet by opting for an Airbnb on its outskirts. From here, you can easily explore nearby towns by bus — or charter a boat for a different perspective of the picturesque coastline. If there’s one experience you can’t miss, it’s doing so and sailing from Positano to Capri for the day. Cruise on the sparkling water of the Tyrrhenian Sea, basking in the breathtaking beauty, exploring the iconic Faraglioni rock formations and truly immersing yourself in the magic of this Mediterranean gem. SUP Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at La Tagliata. Perched high above the town, this family-run restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine made with locally…

STAY I love Malá Strana where I’m currently living as it’s right on the river and central to everything, but away from the tourist crowds of Old Town. It’s surrounded by amazing eateries and parks, and everything I’d want is a 20-minute walk away — it’s a total bubble. The architecture in Malá Strana is gorgeous — all walled gardens, cathedrals and stunning centuries-old homes. Before we found our apartment, we stayed in Airbnbs — it’s my favourite way to explore a city as you quickly get a taste of local life. SUP My ultimate meal is brunch, so Eska has to be on the list. It has a cool industrial interior, they bake their own products and the menu is super interesting, all fresh and local. My favourite gallery…

Natural beauty, tropical temperatures… a mid-winter getaway to a sun-drenched destination feels impossibly good. Fiji is a hotspot for families, but did you know it’s also home to a number of luxurious adults-only resorts that are ideal for grown-up travellers looking for a dose of undisturbed R&R? Less than four hours from New Zealand, this divine island destination caters equally to spontaneous sojourns and long, leisurely stays. Whether you’re looking to park up on the beach with a cocktail and a good book or immerse yourself in Fiji’s rich culture, these child-free resorts are an excellent choice for your next offshore rendezvous. KOKOMO PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT Absolute luxury, natural splendour and genuine hospitality unite at Kokomo Private Island. Fusing authentic Fijian design with sustainability, Kokomo’s interiors are arguably unparalleled. The…

Clara Pafundi PHOTOGRAPHER Although my biggest adventures aren’t really for the general public, my most recent adventure involved selling all my possessions — yet again — and moving countries for the second time in my life. It’s funny how after you’ve settled down, got a dog, bought a house and spent years making friends you can now call your family, the itch for the unexpected and the thrilling discomfort of the unknown can come crawling back like cousin Greg on the final episode of Succession. My full New York experience is yet to be lived, but I’m excited to be on the shore of this new adventure and having it be part of this issue of our beloved Fashion Quarterly. Natalie Cantell STYLIST At 20-something, I was living in Sydney,…

She’s only 25, yet South African-born, Aoteroa-raised model Jordan Daniels has already walked for some of the biggest names in the business — Alexander McQueen, Prada and Valentino, to name just a few. In the past six years since she made the move from New Zealand to New York, this beauty’s career has gone from strength to strength, further proving Kiwis can indeed fly. We caught her after posing for our pages to get the ins and outs. I was raised in Panmure/Glen Innes, and then we moved to Highland Park — I’m an East Auckland baby! I recently bought a house in a small town a little bit south of Auckland and will always call New Zealand home. The first places I go when I return are my parents’…

Knitwear is experiencing a renaissance in Aotearoa, the world’s third-largest producer of wool. During the pandemic’s most tumultuous periods, people sought solace in their hobbies, and many found sticking to their knitting helped them pass the time during lockdown. For Oscar founder Lucy Williams, it blossomed into so much more. Gaining aesthetic inspiration from the lace worn in period dramas, Williams infuses similar intricacies into many of her styles. Her favourite creation to date, the ‘Tulip’ top, has an ultra-fine bodice and cuffs, while her ‘Moth’ cardigan resembles the lace shawls worn during the Victorian era. For Williams, a crucial element of her design ethos focuses on changing the way people view knitting. “Knitting can be quite granny-ish,” she says. “I want to make it more modern and special.” Although…

More than a decade on from the Rana Plaza tragedy, it still reads like a dystopian horror story. In April 2013, cracks appeared on the walls of the multistorey commercial building in Dhaka, Bangladesh, prompting the staff in its clothing factory to push back against going to work. The retail stores on the lower floors were immediately closed, but the garment workers’ resistance was met with an impossible ultimatum: go into the building and work, or lose a month’s pay. The following day, the building collapsed, taking the lives of more than 1100 people and injuring a further 2500. We can’t point to a defining moment in history when corporations catastrophically chose to value production and sales over human life, because it wasn’t a moment, but rather a series of…

LAURA HADLOW Head of marketing, PR and sales at Caitlin Crisp; Commercial Bay ambassador I find any excuse to head into the city, and Commercial Bay is the best destination. Both my husband and I can spend hours there shopping and dining — it’s one of my favourite ways to spend an afternoon. I love the convenience of having so many amazing stores all in one place and its fabulous valet parking deal, which make everything so easy. My favourite stores at Commercial Bay are Aje, Calvin Klein, Cos, Maje, Mecca and Sandro — but the list goes on! As a true Sagittarius, I’m a spontaneous shopper, although in saying that, I do always consider the price and composition of a garment as I tend to justify purchases on a…

SHE’S GOT THE LOOK With the first half of the year filled with runways and red-carpet events, there’s been many a beauty look to lust after. Some would be trickier to try than others, but the following favourites can be easily emulated for a bit of on-trend fun. Turn the page to get started. LOUD LASHES We’ve seen whimsically long and fluffy lashes on runways in the past, but this year at Prada, models including Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid donned faux creations in anything but black. Recreate the look with eyeshadow and coloured mascara — think romantic pink, ladylike lavender or edgy khaki. PRETTY PASTELS Channelling the power of colour to brighten your day or night, this look flips the script, and instead of the brights suggests you swipe…

Most of us will have sorted out some kind of skincare regimen involving a degree of product layering that brings together the essentials. But are you 100% sure that the products you’re slathering on are the right ones for you? As well as needing to consider the ingredients you want to target particular skin concerns, you also have to make sure you apply them in the correct order. We might not have the ultimate combo for everyone, but if you tweak your routine using some of these suggestions, you may notice an improvement. SKIN TYPE: DRY Everyone with dry skin knows a hydrating product is a must-have, making a serum containing hyaluronic acid ideal. You’ve no doubt heard that hyaluronic acid is a water-loving humectant that holds 1000 times its…

Countless hours spent in front of a screen with less-than-ideal posture and daily deadlines doesn’t bode well for a relaxed, radiant complexion. As I close in on 30, I’ve caught myself scanning my forehead for fine lines more times than I care to admit, and although they’re shallow right now, when combined with increasing dullness and textural changes, it’s clear my face is in need of triage. Wanting to try a natural approach, I put my face in the hands of the holistic wellness experts at Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland’s Tonic Room, in the hope of restoring it to its former twentysomething glory. Their AcuFacial treatment ($290) is a 90-minute experience consisting of a bespoke 45-minute facial designed to prime the skin for a further 45 minutes of cosmetic acupuncture. Described as…

Post-pandemic travel is back in full flight, yet for most of us, embracing our freedom isn’t as simple as jumping on a plane, when the cost of everything from apples to airfares is sky high. Don’t let that make you put off holidaying indefinitely, though! Savings made on smaller items here and there can really add up, and you can get out there and see the world without it costing the earth. Here’s how: 1 / PLAN TO GO OFF-PEAK Like many things in life, when it comes to financing travel, planning is key. The sooner you start, the better, because if you book at the last minute, you’ll probably end up paying more. If you can, avoid travelling at peak times like school holidays. Not only will you spend…

BETTER LIVING Drinks, art, books, a new way to make your body feel beautiful… In this section you’ll find all that and food for thought, including these ideas for styling a tasteful tablescape.…

Hiding in plain sight in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland’s waterfront precinct is QT Auckland, a boutique hotel housing an eclectic art collection that begs for your attention — and deservedly so. Meticulously curated by QT’s long-time collaborator, interior designer Nic Graham, the hotel’s gallery showcases stunning works by local and international artists. On entering QT Auckland, you’re greeted by a harmonious fusion of art and design that sets the tone for your stay. Exuding sophistication and creativity, Graham’s attention to detail and understanding of Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland’s essence see installations expertly integrated into the hotel’s public spaces to thought-provoking effect. From the moment you step into the lobby and see the statement piece by Australia’s Minka Gillian, the artwork piques your curiosity. The public spaces also include the talent of several local creatives,…

FOR ART’S SAKE Driving through the heavenly Hawke’s Bay countryside is practically enough to make you feel as if you’re embracing the region’s best, but a trip to Hastings City Art Gallery will give you a boost of culture if you’re craving it. I saw the otherworldly No Straight Lines exhibition by Evan Woodruffe, who collages textiles, like his old shirts, into his works. FOR MORNING TEA Hastings café Cupple is a lovely spot to sit and enjoy tea or coffee — plus it has a delectable selection of doughnuts and pastries handmade in-house. FOR THE MEMORIES The iconic Art Deco architecture of Napier's town centre is definitely worth a look-see, as is the 1935 sound shell on Marine Parade. If you're after something a bit more off the beaten…

STAY The Venetian, as its name suggests, is modelled on a Venetian palazzo. Inside, Romanesque columns and Renaissance-inspired artworks adorn the ceiling in an interesting juxtaposition with the slot machines and card tables as far as the eye can see, and further inside, you’ll find a manmade canal complete with gondolas you can ride. A superficial playground for adults that’s as intoxicating as it is cringe, The Venetian offers spacious rooms and is close to anywhere you might want to go. SUP Conveniently located at the hotel, Wakuda is a high-end, modern Japanese restaurant with a two-Michelin-starred chef. The sushi is amazing, but my highlight was the scampi flambé. I also loved how they boasted about their New Zealand salmon, lamb and Craggy Range wine! SHOP After perusing the luxurious…

STAY Paris has always been my home and I feel a special connection to it, no matter where I go. When I was living in LA, I’d make sure to stay at Hôtel Grands Boulevards when I visited, to get a real taste of the city’s unique charm. Now I’m back living in the 7th arrondissement, near where I grew up, it’s nice to feel that sense of familiarity and see old friends around town. There’s just something about Paris that keeps me coming back. SUP My go-to restaurant is Jaïs, a cosy neighbourhood bistro mostly frequented by locals that serves elegant French classics. For a 4pm snack, I love Une Glace à Paris ice-cream parlour in Marais — it has classic and sophisticated flavours and ice-cream pastries like works…

STAY Centrally situated in the hip Vesterbro area, Coco Hotel combines Scandinavian cool with Parisian-style ambience. With a winsome use of colour that only the Danish can execute elegantly, its every detail is considered, clever and a little bit cosy. Surrounding a serene courtyard for retreating to at the end of a long day of shopping, this is a captivating haven that beckons you to linger. SUP Just a short stroll from the hotel is Cofoco, a restaurant on a corner primed to catch the sunset. Its adventurous, contemporary approach to Danish dining harmonises texture and flavour, and their seasonal tasting menu is nonnegotiable. Although waffle and roe, mullet tartare and cockerel frikassé might test the Kiwi palette, the dishes are a sensory sensation. SHOP A block from the central…

One to fall for at first sight then love for a lifetime, this piece could really take you places. A highlight of Louis Vuitton’s oeuvre, it’s crafted from premium leather produced to the world’s highest environmental guidelines at a Leather Working Group-certified tannery. Its unmistakable LV twist lock swivels to reveal a leather interior, with zipped and flat pockets and a mini mirror. Hold it like you’ll never let it go by its top handle, or closer to your heart with its removable cross-body strap. Louis Vuitton ‘Twist One Handle PM’ bag, $7900.…

WHO’S THAT GIRL? Show off your style chops and show ’em what you’ve got in get-ups that are all your own. The following pages pledge allegiance to exciting new places and combinations that let you express your best self.…

In the heart of Mt Eden in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, the creative hub of fashion label Dominique Healy is making itself at home. Having relocated to New Zealand in 2022 after several years in Melbourne, its founder found the perfect spot for her retail store and studio in the historic village. “I wasn’t planning to open a store — I was just looking for a studio space because I needed somewhere to design,” says Healy (pictured opposite). “I used to work in-store but hadn’t for the past few years because I’d been in the studio full-time, so it’s quite refreshing getting direct feedback from people again, because I haven’t had it for so long.” When FQ sits down with Healy in her new space enclosed within charming exposed-brick walls, she’s wearing…

In 2004, the fashion industry witnessed a groundbreaking shift when multinational, Sweden-based fashion group H&M announced an unprecedented collaboration with designer Karl Lagerfeld. Known for its affordable, on-trend clothing, the brand’s bold move blurred the distinction between high-end and fast fashion, causing a wave of disbelief within the industry. Highlighting the surprising coming-together of these unlikely partners, the campaign’s soon-famous advertisement featured aristocratic figures exclaiming, “Karl! Is it true?” In spite or perhaps because of the controversy, the collection was wildly popular, selling out around the world within a day. Karl Lagerfeld for H&M heralded a new era for the brand, prompting it to join with other high-fashion labels on an almost annual basis, including Commes des Garçons in 2008 and Versace in 2011 — each couture collaboration meeting similar…

Model: Minnie Xu at Red Eleven. Hair: Kelly Manu. Hair assistant: Claudia Reader. Make-up: Liz Hyun. Lighting: Mark Leedom. Digitech: Gabe Metcalfe. With thanks to: Murray Bevan and Yawynne Yem at Showroom 22.…

On the average day, having multiple cosmetic bottles and pottles in your bathroom is no problem (and makes for a cute shelfie). The same can’t be said when you’re travelling, though, so we advise stocking up on a set of comparable mini products and some multitasking full-sized offerings — and never looking back. We’ve done our research so you can get yourself sorted once and for all with finds that will also be allowed in your on-flight carry-on. Pint-sized picks If you’re a multi-step regimen kind of person, these sweet sets will ensure you don’t have to sacrifice it. Drunk Elephant’s diminutive The Littlies ($134) is an all-inclusive kit that’ll have your routine covered morning and night, and comes in a handy jelly bag. We’re also fans of The Emma…

Cosmetic products are a definite go-to when you have a beauty issue and, of course, they work wonders. We’d never suggest you ditch your arsenal of assistants, but it’s also beneficial to keep in mind other things you could introduce to supercharge your skincare regimen. They might require a little more time than topical applications, but that’s a small price to pay for solutions that could take years off your appearance. 1 / ICE QUEEN Gently swiping ice cubes over the skin around your eyes will constrict your capillaries, helping to de-puff under-eye bags and improve the appearance of dark circles for a brightening effect. If you want to take this technique to the next level, fill a bowl with iced water and dunk your entire face in it for…

Treat yourself Facials for your face — tick. Now let’s talk about your scalp. Introducing Chloe Zara’s Scalp Facial kit ($185, comprising Chloe Zara Silk Hair Balm, Hair & Body Perfume Oil and Everyday comb), a luxe DIY experience that deeply cleanses, exfoliates and moisturises to improve your scalp's health. Use once a month or so to say bye-bye to product and natural buildup, adios to inflammation, and hello to improved hydration, circulation and nourishment for stronger, glossier tresses. Curly question The word’s out that natural curls need specific attention to look their best, with curl-friendly products springing up all over the place — but how do you know which is right for you? Our top three suggestions might help narrow it down. The Redken All Soft Mega Curls range…

Follow suit Look professional and you’ll feel professional in the office or WFH. Improve your performance with these well-cut yet wearable pairings. Greener gaze Although looks are usually the most important consideration when choosing eyewear, with Specsavers’ new collection, Luxe, your glasses will also see you uphold your environmental principles. Influenced by fashion-forward Scandi street style, Luxe’s minimalist designs are partially crafted from bio-based acetate and recycled metals, making them well worth a squiz for those who want to lead the fashion pack without compromising their values. Enhance your work wardrobe with Luxe’s contemporary, trend-led, clean-lined shapes in a palette of earth tones. In brief Elevate your commute by carrying the latest creation from Hunterville-based bags and accessories brand Honest Wolf. Made using wool grown on the founders’ 3300-hectare farm,…

You don’t need to be a professional photographer to take advantage of the technology in the new Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra smartphone, but it can’t hurt to have one guide you. Guy Coombes has been shooting fashion, beauty, portraits and advertising commercially for more than 12 years in New Zealand, Australia and the UK, including for the pages of FQ, so we hit him up about how he uses his Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra to capture unforgettable moments. Unlocking his expert-level hacks to make each snap sing, he offers his top five ways to boost your confidence behind the camera and get epic results. 1 / EXPLORE RAW The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra camera uses AI technology to auto-enhance your images, so it’s already helping you straight away. My best…

We often speak of fashion and beauty as a kind of formidable duo. Independently, they’re powerful in their own right, and when combined, they’re cardinal, but what would they be without music? Imagine models walking the runway in silence, each to their own beat, or the iconic montage scene in The Devil Wears Prada, in which Andy’s fashion evolution would transpire without the soundtrack of Madonna’s Vogue. Similar to the garments we pull from our closets every morning, music plays an integral role in our confidence and how we express ourselves, which brings us to an accessory that can complement any outfit: Sennheiser’s Momentum 4 wireless headphones. With the right playlist, every look, every mood and every trip from A to B can be significantly improved with the high-fidelity sounds…

It was 1.58pm on a crisp winter’s day when I appeared at the entrance of SO/ Auckland. I’d barely passed through the lobby’s glass doors before the hotel concierge whisked away my luggage and guided me to check-in. I was issued cards to access my suite on the 11th floor; the Club Signature lounge, where I’d later unwind over an afternoon tea; and, of course, the spa, where I was bound for a personalised treatment to commence my 18-hour staycation. When the elevator doors opened onto SO/ Auckland’s wellness centre, the pool sat to my left, the spa to my right and the gym down the back. I took a deep, anticipatory inhale and made my way towards the treatment rooms. Changed into a robe and slippers, I entered the…

STAY The well-situated and beautifully appointed All Day Place in Shibuya is eco-friendly in the most understated way. In true Japanese style, its rooms come complete with freshly laundered sleepwear and slippers, a selection of lovely teas and the chicest bio-toothbrush and toothpaste I’ve ever seen, plus there was none of the over-fragranced-hotel vibe you so often get when travelling, which is guaranteed to give me a headache. SUP We had an incredible grill and sashimi meal at hole-in-the-wall Yuji (ask for the chef’s recommendations), and an exceptional late-night degustation at Ikyu. The only rules are: be open-minded and ask questions; the Japanese love introducing you to their specialities, so if you show an interest and a willingness to try, you’ll be showered with hospitality. SHOP There’s no two ways…

STAY In the heart of Surry Hills is Paramount House Hotel, the former headquarters of Paramount Picture Studios. Heritage meets modernity in this effortlessly chic boutique accommodation with an adjoining cinema and one of the city’s best coffee spots (more on that below). If it’s sophisticated lounging you’re after, this is the place to be. SUP There’s no shortage of top-tier hospitality in Sydney, but when staying at Paramount House, I can’t go past Paramount Coffee Project. I’d start my day there with a coffee and an almond croissant, head to nearby Reuben Hills café for lunch, and end my day in Double Bay at Matteo for some vodka rigatoni and a negroni. Back in Surry Hills, unassuming and inviting Bar Suze is my go-to for a drink post-(or pre-)…

SUMMER WINTER…

We’re about two-and-a-half hours out of Queenstown when we turned off the highway onto a gravel road framed by hills and tussock-y grass. Our destination was The Lindis, and a short while later, we barely noticed we’d arrived. The lodge is set so discreetly into the Ahuriri Valley, Canterbury landscape, it almost looks as if it’s just another hill. It looks as if it’s been there forever. That was the idea, says The Lindis Group managing director William Hudson. “It’s accessible remoteness.” He’s right. I felt like we were in the middle of nowhere, but 24 hours later, I understood that The Lindis has everything you can possibly want or need. Opened in 2018, the high-end lodge is incredibly private, with just eight bedrooms — two master suites, three lodge…