10 minute read

GOODNESS FROM THE OUTSIDE IN

PAMPER

WORDS Liam Stretch PHOTOS Supplied

The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and we don’t often think of it as such – Emma Lewisham’s mission is to get us to treat our epidermis with respect, and in turn, our bodies.

Her skincare range, Emma Lewisham, came about following a discussion with a doctor about what she was using on her skin when she was looking to start a family. He revealed to her that ingredients in some traditional products like hydroquinone were toxic and harmful to the body. Hydroquinone is banned in several countries, and New Zealand is lagging behind on the regulation front.

“It was really clear to me at that point that I did want to move to wearing cleaner, natural skincare because I did believe there was a credible link to what we use on our skin being linked to our health,” Emma says.

Used to using premium cremes and serums, Emma was looking at natural products on the market like argan oil and shea butter but realised they would not deliver the same results.

This set her on the journey of Emma Lewisham skincare, to prove to the beauty industry and consumers that it is possible to produce luxury skin products that perform without compromising health. This struck a chord with Ballantynes. The store’s beauty buyer Caroline Fallow said that the reputation and quality of the products were big draw cards.

“Emma reached out earlier in the year about the range. I loved the concept behind the brand and how concise the line-up was; it seemed very results-driven and easy to understand what to expect from each product. Over the next couple of months, I saw so much positive feedback online about the efficacy of the products I couldn’t hold off any longer – it just seemed like the perfect time to launch and support a local New Zealand brand,” Caroline says.

The range has a palette of clean skincare options available. All products are free of any nasty bits and include a natural preservative, while other green brands often use synthetic alternatives. A commitment to sustainability is bolstered by eco-friendly packaging, ethical sourcing of ingredients, and a recycling programme – The Emma Lewisham Beauty Circle. Caroline said this provided further reason for Ballantynes to stock the brand.

“I feel sustainability is very much a part of the journey Ballantynes is on; internally, we are constantly refining the way we operate to lessen our impact on the environment. It is an ongoing learning experience, so to work with companies that place sustainability at the forefront of their brands is hugely inspiring.”

The scientifically proven results also are a significant selling point. Upon independent testing, the products not only rivalled synthetic brands but outperformed them in some metrics – Skin Reset won an international award for best serum last year. Caroline says this reputation preceded the product range and they have sold much of the opening order. “It seems as though our customers already know and love the range, so for it be available now at Ballantynes seems like the perfect fit.”

With more products to come, Emma is also taking on other challenges. “My next step is to push to the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to review and update our outdated banned ingredient list,” Emma says.

ballantynes.co.nz

Kia Dirkson, Fashion & Beauty Editor

Blooms beckon

The glory of spring is upon us. As the blossoms begin to beckon and bloom, so too must our wardrobes. With the transition of the season comes the time to invest in some new pieces. Top that with the warmer weather offering an ideal setting for social events that are quickly filling up all of our diaries. Baby and bridal showers, milestone birthdays, and entertaining evenings all call for outfits that are fit for the occasion.

I remember my own wedding well. Very American and I relished every bit of the pomp and circumstance that accompanies weddings. In a recent interview with Dame Trelise, I learned that brides are moving away from the traditional and opting for a more modern approach to their special day. The bridal gown is obviously the most poignant piece, and she reveals that every member of the bridal party can shop for looks from her eponymous brand, which are a chic departure from the everyday event attire.

Christchurch abounds with luxe locations to host events from much-anticipated weddings to a casual tea for two. The Tannery boasts an epic backdrop, and The George Hotel offers the opportunity for a sophisticated soirée. The Heritage hotel at the Old Government building is an iconic destination for gatherings both large and small, and The Tack Rooms’ modern dual spaces will have your guests revelling in both indoor and outdoor enjoyment. All of these locales are top tier for top-notch nuptials, and beyond which calls for epic attire for for the occasion.

For the Couture section this month, we have entered a garden phase and embraced all the blossoms that the coming warmer months provide. Florals boasting both male and female prints coupled with bold colours are making a mark at the moment.

FLORALLY YOURS

Aquamarina Earrings filigree.co.nz | Coop Easy As Tie Dress trelisecooperonline.com | Place D’aligre Mint Eyewear ahlemeyewear.com | Daniella Petal Dress juliettehogan.co.nz | DLYP Crushed Tote Maxi ballantynes.co.nz | Austyn Floral Dress olivianz.com | Kathryn Wilson Turquoise Paris Heel ballantynes.co.nz | Zimmerman Ladybeetle Silk Wide Leg Pant zimmermannwear.com | Crossover Sterling Silver Ring jeulia.co.nz

Recreate your spark

Over time, your style changes but your jewellery does not.

It may be a ring from a previous relationship or a multi-coloured necklace you politely accepted. Is it earrings that were hot 20 years ago, but not so much now, or is it your mother’s engagement ring?

Remodelling old jewellery is a wonderful opportunity to recycle your metals, diamonds, and gemstones from your vintage and precious jewellery stored away. Remaking it into something means it’s more tailored to your taste.

Meet with the designers, and discuss what your jewellery could become. The team will carefully take apart and remake your item into your desired design. Reusing your old metals, stones, and any new materials of your choosing, while keeping the sentiment of heirlooms and treasured pieces, creates a new and unique piece of jewellery. You can wear and enjoy it for years to come.

Filigree is one of the last remaining jewellers specialising in remodelling jewellery, housing an on-site workshop and an innovative and creative team of designers and jewellers. Book your free design consultation now and remodel for spring.

filigree.co.nz

MONTROSE ESTATE Experience self-contained luxury in one of the three residences at Montrose; a 200-hectare private alpine valley retreat situated in the high country at the base of the Southern Alps. With a Rakaia River frontage and magnificent mountain ranges, the calming and welcoming atmosphere includes salmon-filled ponds fed by spring creeks, black swans as residents of your own 10-acre lake, and native bird calls adding to the peace and tranquillity. Breathe in the crisp, clean air and let nature refresh your spirits. montroseestate.co.nz ENCOUNTER KAIKŌURA Dolphins are some of nature’s most extraordinary and captivating creatures. Immerse yourself in their world with Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura, an unforgettable experience in one of New Zealand’s most breath-taking destinations. After the completion of earthquake repairs, Encounter Kaikōura is excited to once again open for both their albatross and dolphin tours. Their onsite café serves great coffee and delicious food daily – why not make a day of it? FLOURISH HEALTH AND BEAUTY Embrace the connection between a healthier mind, a stronger body, and more beautiful skin. Flourish uses skincare products that are 100 per cent vegan, cruelty-free, formulated without gluten, whey or soy, and innovatively produced using plant-based ingredients grounded in science. The results speak for themselves. With nearly 20 years’ experience, the Flourish experts offer waxing, facials, massage, nails, manicures, pedicures, and spray tanning, meranie.flourish@gmail.com

and will soon offer lash extensions and brow laminating. dolphinencounter.co.nz

THE NATURE SERIES This eco-collection by IBK Photography captures sustainable subject matter in raw form. The timber and wood featured in these pieces are ethically sourced and imported to New Zealand by Forêt where they are reused and recycled for high-end interior design projects all over the country. Each image holds an individually rich story of a dynamic life journey shown through natural cracks, crevices, and lines. The Nature Series sold out in its first week in store at Armstrong Interiors’ Workroom. imagesbykia.com

THE ARTS CENTRE The Great Hall, with its magnificent stained-glass windows, rich wood panelling, carved stone walls and fireplace, is a beautiful backdrop for a day to remember. Outside, the archways of the North Quad will elegantly frame your wedding portraits, from formal poses to unguarded moments at your ceremony and reception. The Arts Centre’s wedding package offers these unique heritage spaces plus two nights’ accommodation in the contemporary four-bedroom on-site apartment. artscentre.org.nz/venue-hire MRS BOTTOMLEY’S FLOWERS Mrs Bottomley’s philosophy is simple: To create breathtakingly beautiful, wild and whimsical blooms for your special occasion. They believe flowers and floral design know no bounds and there are no rules. Nature provides us with a glorious array of flowers and foliage to be inspired and enraptured by. Bouquets are crafted with love and care using the finest New Zealand grown seasonal ingredients…the bouquets are so good they will make your aunty cry! CURATOR’S HOUSE Take the stress out of your special day at Curator’s House. Situated in the Botanic Gardens, this heritage venue has the most perfect picturesque setting. Try tapas al fresco, a photoshoot in the gardens, followed by dining in your own private room. Everything is at the one venue! A range of traditional Spanish cuisine can be tailored into your personalised menu. A range of all-weather options are available, with catering to suit weddings from nine to 99 guests.

curatorshouse.co.nz mrsbottomleysflowers.nz

SKIN REJUVENATION CLINIC Refresh your appearance with IPL! Spring is an ideal time to get your skin looking refreshed and rejuvenated. If you have sun-damage (brown pigment spots), broken blood-vessels, dull skin or open pores, you could benefit from IPL treatments. The M22 is the gold standard of IPL machines – shutting down superficial blood vessels, thereby reducing redness. It lifts brown pigments from the skin and also helps tighten pores and stimulate collagen. Book now! skinrejuvenationclinic.co.nz

YEAH

1Penguin of the Month – The National Aquarium of New Zealand: we giggle every month.

2Acorn TV is the best thing since Netflix. Give us all the British procedurals right now!

3afterthewhistle.co.nz Authentic stories through the eyes of Kiwi sportspeople.

4Synchronised fish & chips. Also known as dinner ESP with your significant other.

5

Resene Artisan – get down and earthy with a tan for all seasons. NAH

1

Mylk. Make it out of anything you want, just don’t call it that.

2Absent unsubscribe buttons – don’t think we won’t email you directly.

3

High-end distressed sneakers – are we taking crazy pills?

4The ‘care’ reaction on Facebook. Purely there to be used ironically, no?

5Canvas sunsets. Snooze. Bring back glass and frames.