HB Today - Threads October 2023

INSIDE

06 08 16 Tailored for style

L’Oreal Gift Hamper giveaway

Finding refuge in fashion

OCTOBER 2023

Come in and see the latest Caju collection

www.hilarypointonfashion.co.nz

240 Heretaunga St West, Hastings

Ph: 06 878 9938

Welcome to summer!

Verge

Verge

Karen Walker

Verge

Karen Walk ker

Time to Indulge

Enjoy the vibrant colours, gorgeous florals, the subtle muted tones and everything that says it’s time to indulge ourselves with a fresh new look. Funky shirts, trendy jackets and suits and stylish shoes keep our men right up there with the trends. Beautiful swimwear for all ages to make you feel a million dollars – they are all featured in this supplement. Top off your look with stunning accessories – bespoke jewellery, bags, hats and shoes.

KETZ ZE-KE

KETZE E-KE

Skin care and beauty products are essential in the ever changing weather conditions and make sure hair, nails and feet are given extra attention. Create a really good wellness routine that will help keep you well both mentally and physically.

A gentle reminder to our community, please support local – keep our retail sector strong!

COVER IMAGE Fulham Jacket/Florale Dress from Loobie’s Story

Leo+B Be

Augustin ne

A street-party of epic proportions Friday 10 November 5.30 - 8.30pm East Block Hastings Free Entry

25 Wineries Craft Beer + Cider Foodies + Food Trucks Live Music + Entertainment Flock Events Street Lounge Giveaways tastehastings.co.nz

IDEAschool graduate recognised as emerging designer

in national design competition A

recent IDEAschool graduate at EIT | Te Pūkenga has received a bronze medal in New Zealand’s premier design competition.

Yenny Lopdell, and her sustainable spatial screen ‘Sketsel’, was selected as a finalist in the Student Product Category at The Best Design Awards by the Designers Institute of New Zealand. At the Awards ceremony, held last week, Yenny won the bronze award and was recognised as one of the best emerging designers in Aotearoa.

The Best Design Awards is an annual showcase of excellence in Graphic, Spatial, Product, Digital and Moving Image along with three special awards - Value of Design, Public Good and Toitanga.

“It means a lot to me to be recognised. At the beginning of the project, I would have never thought I would be entering, let alone become a finalist in any awards,” says Yenny ‘Sketsel’ was Yenny’s final third year project.

Originally from Indonesia, Yenny incorporated the Javanese Batik pattern of ‘Parang’ into her work. The end result is a spatial screen using paper waste, which is formed together by the arrangement of intertwining diagonal S shapes.

“The screen is precisely cut with laser

technology and assembled by hand.

Lighting is also deeply considered so that when backlit, the complex spatial interplay diffuses light creating a range of exciting and dynamic tones on the screen surfaces.”

The 42-year-old graduated with a Bachelor of Creative Practice (Design) earlier this year and is now working as a Graphic Designer at Napier-based design agency Band.

She first started the level 4 certificate in 2017 before embarking on the degree.

“I had been searching for what I wanted to do, and I came to the right place. EIT has helped me find my passion and understand how I can use where I’m from and extract that and incorporate it into my work. They have helped bring me out from no one to someone.”

Yenny says EIT | IDEAschool design lecturer James Smith encouraged her to make a submission.

“James was really helpful and guided me through the submission process.”

She is now planning to gift her screens to EIT | Te Pūkenga and is exploring what the possibilities are for Sketsel.

“I’m hoping this screen will inspire other students. The last project is important for the future and can open so many doors.”

Enrol now—start 2024 IDEAschool Art and Design | Comm munication Media | Fashion | Screen Production | Music

ideaschool.eit.ac.nz | 0800 22 55 348

Tailored for style Here comes the summer, and the Hawkes Bay events calendar begins to fill. Endless barbeques, F.A.W.C events, Christmas parties and weddings present an opportunity for men to refresh their wardrobes and add some versatile, stylish pieces for the warmer months ahead. And don’t forget the races.

One way guys beat the heat this summer is by wearing breezy, head-to-toe white ensembles, which have a calm, minimal vibe, if you think this is a bit bold, try swapping out your top layer for a light, tailored navy blazer. For shoes, try smart black or brown.

And good old black is back when mixed in with tons of colour.

For the barbie or a drink down the local garden bar with your mates; a light weight long sleeved linen shirt, sleeves rolled up, casual sneakers, with invisible socks (don’t forget the socks) and good cotton shorts with a belt; always wear a belt.

Smart casual is still very popular with the lads mixing classic sports coats with denim and chino and a splash of colour. The suit has had a resurgence courtesy of the trend of mixing tailoring with sportswear. Suits, blazers, and tailored trousers are the way when combined with less formal elements.

Adding to the casual demeanour are washed cotton shirts in light colours, whites, blues and pinks. These shirts take their cue from more tailored, formal business shirts but are washed during the manufacturing process to give them a softer, more relaxed feel without compromising on fit or style. Florals and small intricate designs are also fair for this season. Try one under a sports coat with a pair of lightweight trousers for a smart casual look suitable for the races, the restaurant or anywhere in between. When it comes to suits and dress trousers a lot of the lads are funking it up by wearing branded sneakers with rolled up cuffs.

The warmer months see a focus on the smaller details with a growing number of men taking the time to invest in quality accessories to separate them from the pack. The humble tie has made a comeback with refined, textured ties in wool, silk and linen blends complementing the seasons tailoring. For those looking to add a final flourish for the races or a wedding should look no further than a colourful silk pocket square, lapel flower or set of cufflinks. These are a great way to add a pop of colour to your ensemble or perhaps a subtle complement to your partners outfit.

Whatever you choose just be sure you have a good think before you commit. Take a look at the trends and determine what looks good on you and makes you feel comfortable, but give yourself a little push outside the comfort zone now and then. Remember “Look sharp, think sharp be sharp”.

For all your menswear know-how, visit the team at Thomson’s Suits.

Mia Dolce are proud stockists of Lancome, Dermalogica, Pure Fiji and Aleph.

Christmas Gift sets are now in store.

10 Jolll Road, Havellock North P: (06) 877 6867 E: info@miadollce.co.nz

On trend

All images courtesy of Trelise Cooper www.trelisecooper.com

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To enter nominate a person that you would like to see receive this gift and tell us why in less than 50 words.

Email competitions@hawkesbaytoday.co.nz with L’Oreal in the subject line. Please include a daytime phone contact number.

The competition closes at 5pm Monday 30 October 2023.

By emailing to enter this competition you agree to the NZME Standard Promotion or Competition Terms and Conditions and NZME Privacy Policy that can be viewed at: https://www.nzme.co.nz/about-nzme/terms-conditions/

Pilates & Wellbeing

Focal House Clive Square Napier CBD

Glenys Murphy I have several classes available at the Pilates and Wellbeing studio for you to enjoy.

Skeleton classes over Labour Weekend txt for information.

Please txt if you intend to attend. $150 for 10 sessions

New Intro Classes are now Available Thursdays 5.30pm Fridays 10.15am

$120 per 10 session

Pilates Lunchtime Mondays 12.10pm (you need to be fit and experienced in core work for this class. It is not beginners)

Registrations essential for any class. Please bring your own mat to Pilate classes. First class Complimentary

Balance Classes Tuesdays & Thursdays 11.10am 40mins only (first class complimentary)

And the best news is…… It is never to late to start.

All our classes include resistance training either seated or standing with bands in the Pilates, Balance and seated standing classes along with or dumb bells and/or kettle bells in our Fit Wise classes.

Glenys has a very popular ballet class (55 years +) Monday 1.30pm at Dance Express. Registrations essential.

Fit Wise Classes 50+

Description of classes

This is for the person who prefers to work in a small group supported with a personal trainer every minute on the session. Cardio on rowers or bikes using the HIIT method. High Intensity Interval training.

Resistance training with free weights, kettle bells or bands followed by core work and finishing with stretches. 40mins $120 for 6 sessions or $20 per class Tuesday & Thursday times available. Please contact Glenys.

Pilate Mat Work Classes Level 2 up to advance. See Pilates timetable below. Includes some seated ball work with resistance training and mat work exercises. Building strength, mobility, flexibility, agility, finishing with stretches. Background relaxing music played throughout classes.

55mins $150 for10 sessions or $18 casual

Balance Classes This is a great exercise to

music class, with standing and seated exercises along with resistance training work. No floor work. Motivating back in the day music used throughout. 40mins $120 for 10 sessions or $12 per class

Sit/Stand Pilate Classes This is a gentle way of exercising the body. No floor work.

Resistance exercises included. 40mins $120 for 10 sessions or $12 per class

Timetable From July 2023 M/L = Mixed Level classes S/S= Stand Sit Pilates

MON TUES M/L M/L 9am 9am Adv M/L 10.05am 10.05am Stand/Sit Balance 11.15am 11.10am Adv 12.10pm Adv Fit Wise 5.30pm 4.45pm Fit Wise 5.30pm

WED THURS FRI SAT Adv M/L Adv/ML 9am 9am 9.25am Pilates Intro Stand/Sit M/L 10.10am 10.05am 10.15am Balance S/S 11.10am 11.15am M/L Fit Wise 5.30pm 12.15pm Fit Wise 1pm Fit Wise 4.45pm Intro Pilates 5.30pm

Personal Training 1 to 1 available

with Glenys you can have Fit Wise work out or Pilates or maybe incorporate both. $60 per 50min session

Personal training sessions are available with Glenys.

20min to 30mins to 40mins available.

Fit Wise Classes Enjoy small group 40min Fitness sessions incorporating Cardio workout resistance training core work and stretching. $20 per class.

Limited vacancies Tuesdays 4pm 4.45pm 5.30pm and Thursdays 12.15 1pm & 4.45pm Registrations Essential email glenys@pilatesinfocus.co.nz

Mob Glenys 027 5623 693 Txt is best or Landline 06 842 0454

(Pilates & Dance Express) All Classes at The Pilates & Wellbeing Studio Focal House Clive Square Napier

Embracing her identity

through fashion competition

By Chrys Ayley Since 1988, the Hokonui Fashion Design Awards, held in Gore in late July, have been a competitive platform for all amateur fashion designers to showcase their designs in front of well-regarded industry leaders.

One designer who was surprised, yet very pleased, to receive a merit award is local fashion student Aiaikitekura Kavana who is studying at EIT | Te Pūkenga. Her collection Colonisation featured three pieces that combined fibre, in this case flax, with fabrics.

Aiaikitekura discovered a passion for art and fashion somewhat late in life having experienced several jobs

and also been on a benefit. She is now in her third and last year studying for a Bachelor of Creative Practice (Fashion Design). Before this, from 20112015, Aiaikitekura successfully completed a Bachelor of Creative Practice (Visual Arts and Design).

She fell into arts by accident when she was visiting EIT to inquire about studying fashion. She was mesmerised by the work of Nigel Roberts in the IDEASchool Vent Gallery and says “it was like someone stole my vision”.

His work reminded her of sea creatures beneath the waves and she instantly related because she finds inspiration in nature. After completing a 12 week introduction to Visual Design Aiaikitekura returned in

2011 to study for her first degree.

She admits that studying presented many challenges and she wasn’t computer literate so she spent long hours studying as she felt there was so much to learn.

Raised by her grandmother in Aitutaki until she was 10 Aiaikitekura then came to New Zealand to join her mother. It was during those early years on Aitutaki that the youngster was exposed to weaving and embroidery and watched the women making Tivaivai. This is a form of artistic quilting traditionally done by Polynesian women including those in the Cook Islands. The word literally means “patches” in reference to the pieces of material sewn together.

Colonisation won a merit award at the Hokonui Fashion Awards earlier this year. Aiaikitekura embraced the concept of sustainability and from the waist up her designs are made from flax.

“We were using fibre until the colonials started settling.”

From left, the blue skirt in two layers was inspired by the colours of the lagoon in Aitutaki.

Zoot pants were a style introduced by Amercian/ Mexican immigrants that had their origins in the urban black scene during the 1940s. Next is Aiaikitekura flanked by a design based on a kilt.

Accessorise

Karen Walker selection

Metallics from Kaji

Minx footwear available from local stockists www.minx.co.nz

She clearly remembers the first garment she made using “lovely fabric” gifted by her mother - a dress. Her mother often embroidered and when she wasn’t looking Aiaikitekura would pick up her mother’s work and secretly continue.

It wasn’t until 7 or 8 years ago that Aiaikitekura was introduced to weaving at EIT. She wove a tairiiri (fan) and kete (basket) and her tutor was amazed at how quickly she took to the craft. They realised that she had taken a lot more on board, without realising it, while watching her grandmother weave. Since then her skill has improved considerably and the weaving in her Colonisation collection clearly demonstrates her talent.

As she says “fibre is my thread.”

Aiaikitekura has some strong views on fashion and didn’t like clothes the 17 and 18 year olds were wearing. “People shouldn’t judge on size and designers don’t look after larger sized women (not necessarily Pacific.)

“Designs can be stylish. Big women can wear shorts, tights…and in my opinion the fabric you use is important, followed by the cut and style as well as the colour. How does the fabric feel when it touches your skin?

“I like simple and elegant. You’re the one who makes the clothes look good.” She has become confident wearing more patterns. “I’ve changed my thinking.”

Lately Aiaikitekura has been working on this year’s collection that will be shown at the EIT IDEA Show end of year fashion show.

All her works are designed to let her identity to shine through. This year’s collection (still under wraps) has a piece of weaving carrying through the inspiration of fibre, a modern, nature theme and inspirational flowers of Ireland, Scotland, Cook Islands and New Zealand that represent her family.

And so, what does she plan to do after graduation?

“I would love to be in the community running short courses for young people. I want to teach recycling to show the children how we are destroying the earth by the amount of clothes we’re discarding. We’ve got to start little. I’d also like to get Pacific students interested in creative arts.”

Aiaikitekura models a coat she designed.

Another of her inspired designs.

All photos courtesy of EIT.

NEW ARRIVALS Party Dresses for all occasions.

SHOP INSTORE OR ONLINE www.magazineclothing.co.nz Sizes 10-26.

119 Hastings Street, Napier Ph: 06 835 6655 VIEW OTHER STORE LOCATIONS ONLINE

A DENTAL PROSTHESIS IN

JUST A SINGLE VISIT: 1

After the consultation, a camera captures the area to be treated

2

The dental prosthesis is then created as a 3D model on the computer.

3

The restoration created on the computer is subsequently milled from a ceramic block.

4

The finished ceramic restoration is inserted just a little while later.

ADVANTAGES WITH CEREC

No unpleasant impression material

Say goodbye to biting on impression material for several minutes, having a numb mouth and jaw ache. Dr Sundar now has a camera that can capyture your full fentition in seconds and then transfer this to the computer No follow-up appointment CEREC enables Dr Sundar to insert esthetic ceramic crowns or partial crowns in a single session.

The advantage of this is that only one appointment is necessary, which means only one injection, and then you an deal with other things than visits to Dr Sundar.

No bothersome temporary prosthesis

Temporary protheses are exactly what the name suggests: temporary. With CEREC the final prosthesis is inserted directly without any temporary compromises needed.

Long-term stability More than just a theory: With CEREC you can rely on quality that has been proven millions of times over in the practice.

Furthermore, thanks to your new dental prosthesis made by CEREC, your smile will be just as lovely many years later as it is directly after receiving the prosthesis.

Make an appointment right now for an uncomplicated dental prosthesis!

Rejuvenate your smile and reclaim your life with Smile Rehabilitation services When you hear the word “makeover,” you might picture a new hairstyle or a cosmetic plastic surgery. However, another kind of makeover involves something that people notice whenever they meet you: your smile. At Dentiq Dental, our smile rehabilitation service will give you a smile you will be proud to show off and teeth that perform their job.

What is smile rehabilitation?

Sometimes, you may want to put your best smile forward, but tooth imperfections keep holding you back. Luckily, even if you are plagued with multiple teeth flaws, a smile makeover can transform your smile

into something you will be thrilled to show to the world. But what is smile rehabilitation?

When you have several dental challenges, one treatment isn’t enough to fix your smile. As such, we devise a combination of cosmetic and restorative procedures that help do the job. Because no smile is similar to another, our smile makeover isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment, it is specially customized to transform your unique smile into full glory.

How we reconstruct your smile In our clinic, Dr Sundar, Dr Fenton and their team may use the below techniques to reconstruct your smile: • Teeth whitening • Dental crowns • Clear Correct • Dental veneers • Dental implants • Tooth-coloured fillings Are you ready to rejuvenate your smile and reclaim your life with smile rehabilitation?

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

Phone 0800smiletoday 20 Gloucester Street, Napier

Mon to Fri 8am-4pm, except Tuesday 8am-6pm

What’s your go-to beach style?

Summer seems to have been a long way off for such a lengthy period of this year that now it’s here, or tantalisingly close, it’s easy to imagine being at the beach or around the pool. With that comes the thought of what to wear as swimwear trends have changed over time to be an assortment of interesting fabrics, both bold and subtle colours, patterns and florals and brands that cater to a wider range of body shapes and sizes.

There is the minimal strong one colour timeless

classic, the never out of fashion paisley designs, florals of all sizes and hues and the strong bold colours that exude confidence. Try on several styles to see what best suits your figure – if it look, feels and fits you like it’s your best swimsuit ever – then it probably is!

Team your swimwear with beautiful colourful accessories such as sarongs, wraps, beach bags, sunglasses, colourful and comfortable footwear and a good dose of UV protection – have fun!

Swimwear images courtesy of Suzelle Lingerie & Swimwear, Hastings. See their extensive range and receive expert service in store.

Jantzen

Jantzen

Sunseeker

Fantasie

Simone Perele

Suzelle Lingerie specialises in lingerie, sleepwear, swimwear, shapewear, hosiery, mastectomy and undergarments. Located in Hawke’s Bay, our team of specialists are trained to fit you into the perfect size bra or swimsuit for any occasion. Visit us in-store or book your appointment today.

HASTINGS 108 Heretaunga Street, West

suzellelingerie.co.nz

A fresh take on aesthetics Elizabeth Clinic is an evidence based focused practice based at the Anderson Park Surgical centre, Greenmeadows. The clinic provides expert advice and premium services to men and women who want to feel more confident in their skin.

Registered nurse Sian Bennett is the founder and senior nurse at Elizabeth clinic. She has over eight years in the nursing industry with a special focus in the peri operative area and cosmetic medicine.

She opened the Elizabeth Clinic in July this year after seeing a need for personalised cosmetic treatments in Hawke’s Bay. “We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive list of top notch cosmetic injectables. Treatments such as anti-wrinkle (Botox), dermal fillers and advanced skin treatments have come a long way in the last three years, says Sian.

With a strong focus on safety and utilizing only the highest quality products, Elizabeth Clinic strives to provide exceptional results while prioritizing the wellbeing of their clients.

Senior nurse, Sian possesses” a deep understanding of cosmetic injectables and is well versed in the latest techniques and advancements in the field. As such, clients can trust they are in expert hands who will guide them through every step of the process, answering questions and addressing any concerns with professionalism and expertise.

We do not believe injectables are for vanity, but more for self-confidence. When you wake up in the morning and see a tired face, that often flows into your decision making for the rest of your day. However, if you wake up and feel refreshed in your appearance, this can positively impact your day. You are likely to be more social, apply for that dream job or wear that dress you love.

Improving the way you feel about yourself sets you up for success.”

Daily home skin care routine

By Sian Bennett Step 1: Clean off any makeup, dirt and air pollution with a gentle cleaner and a small amount of gentle exfoliation.

Step 2: Allow the cleanser time actually to work on your skin, so give it 1-3 minutes of massage.

Step 3: Treat any specific concerns you have, like pigmentation, dehydration or breakouts, with a serum. e.g. vitamin C, vitamin B, vitamin A (retinol).

Step 4: Hydrate the skin with a moisturiser specific to your skin, usually richer in winter.

Step 5: If it’s the morning apply a sunscreen that has a physical protection too (zinc oxide).

Services

• Anti-wrinkle • Dermal filler • Microneedling • Skin treatments

Registered nurse Sian Bennett is the founder and senior nurse at Elizabeth Clinic.

A fresh take on aesthetics AT ELIZABETH CLINIC WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON HAVING A LESS IS MORE APPROACH TO COSMETIC INJECTABLES. OUR GOAL IS TO NATURALLY ENHANCE YOUR FEATURES.

Scan to find out more

Elizabeth Clinic ANDERSON PARK SURGICAL CENTER NAPIER

OPENING LATE

OCTOBER

REFORMER PILATES YOGA SCULPT MAT PILATES OPENING WEEK SPECIAL

ALL CLASSES $10!

2/9 Nelson Quay, Ahuriri

Finding refuge in fashion

By Cathy Dunn Storytelling is a fundamental function of cultural institutions such as museums. MTG Hawke’s Bay’s latest exhibition, Finding Refuge in Fashion: Minh Ta, reveals the incredible story of the Vietnameseborn designer and her family who settled in Heretaunga/Hastings in 1977.

Minh Ta grew up in Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, during the Vietnam War, and when the city fell to communists in 1975, she, husband Au and their baby daughter Lily, were forced to flee their homeland. A harrowing ocean journey aboard a rusty cargo boat took the family to Thailand where they spent nine months in a refugee camp.

Located next to the city crematorium, the constant smell of dead bodies compounded the horror of frequent encounters with spiders and snakes. The camp had no electricity or running water, and refugees survived on a small daily ration of rice. Eventually, Minh and Au’s application for resettlement in Aotearoa/New Zealand was approved, and Heretaunga/Hastings became their adopted home.

In Saigon, Minh had studied art and design for seven years, and had successfully exhibited original paintings. Her skill and talent helped to secure employment with Roach’s department store in Heretaunga/Hastings, illustrating newspaper advertisements and clothing catalogues promoting New Zealand fashion labels.

Hastings-born painter Rita Angus also supported herself as a fashion illustrator - for Ballantynes department store - after her divorce in 1934.

Minh’s career as a clothing designer was launched when she joined Mary Hunt Designs in 1986. Mary encouraged Minh to enter the prestigious Benson & Hedges Fashion Awards, B&H Awards, New Zealand’s premier fashion competition at the time. Minh’s entry, a striking design that cleverly paired black lycra and floral chiffon - was not only nominated as a finalist; Mary Hunt purchased the dress and arranged to have it gifted to Princess Diana.

Minh bought Mary Hunt’s business in 1987, renaming it Minh Ta Designs. Many Hawke’s Bay locals will remember the premises in Hastings, upstairs on the corner of Heretaunga and Eastbourne Streets, where garments were constructed and fashion shows were held for invited guests.

Images courtesy of MTG.

Fashion fix

Augustine

Caroline Sills

Trelise Cooper

Minh worked 18 hour days, designing and making clothes for clients as well as inventing innovative ensembles for the B&H Awards. She reached the finals no less than eight times, coming first in the Leisure Lifestyle section in 1988. Visitors to the exhibition will see Minh’s exuberant competition entries that approach the concept of wearable art and exemplify the boldshouldered style of the 1980s. In contrast are the more commercial made-to-measure outfits developed in consultation with clientele, and refined race wear that Minh designed in the late 1990s and 2000s, reflecting the trend for a slimmer silhouette.

Among the garments on display are several donated on behalf of Jean Garrick, a fashion buyer for Westerman’s department store in Hastings, whose professional relationship with Minh turned into a personal friendship.

She accompanied Minh and Au to the B&H Awards in Wellington, wearing a Minh Ta-designed gown of course.

June Clifford NZCM wore outfits designed by Minh Ta when she appeared on stage in her capacity as the first woman president of Chamber Music New Zealand, and talks about how confident and assured they made her feel. June also wore Minh Ta designs at her two investitures. We look forward to hearing your stories relating to Minh Ta’s time in Te Matau ā Māui/ Hawke’s Bay. Minh and Au’s daughter, Lily, also established herself as an award winning designer, becoming the youngest ever finalist in the B&H Awards (later renamed the NZ Smokefree Awards). In 1996 she won first place in the Avant Garde category.

In 1994 the Ta family relocated to Auckland where Minh’s clientele grew along with her list of awards. Her designs regularly featured in race-day Fashion in the Field events, and Minh won so many times she was banned from entering!

It’s fitting that Minh and Lily Ta’s garments and archival material have found a permanent home in our regional museum. We are very grateful to Minh and Lily for their generous donations and for their time spent telling stories, without which the exhibition would be less rich.

Thanks are also due to other donors who have kindly gifted pieces designed by Minh Ta. This collection is an important addition to the fashion history, both locally in Hawke’s Bay, and nationally in Aotearoa/New Zealand the place where Minh and her family found refuge.

Minh Ta bought Mary Hunt’s business in 1987 and renamed it Minh Ta Designs. The building was upstairs on the corner of Heretaunga and Eastbourne Streets. Photo courtesy of Hawke’s Bay Knowledge Bank.

Photo courtesy of MTG.

Exhibition closes: Sunday 29th October 2023

MTG Hawke’s Bay, 1 Tennyson Street, Napier

Designer jewellery with a personal touch

By Amanda McKenzie Creativity is in the blood for Monique Thérèse of Monique Thérèse Jewellers in Havelock North. Her mother was a florist and despite also having a love for working with her hands, Thérèse was drawn to the hard stuff, rather than flowers. “Metal is very tactile and a really lovely medium to be quite sculptural with. I enjoy metal forming as a part of the trade”, she says.

When asked what attracted her to the industry, Thérèse says that it’s the gratification she gets when she finishes a creation. Thérèse is known for her custom-made pieces which can take up to fourteen hours or longer to complete. More complicated commissions can see her having to tackle them several hours at a time. It’s gruelling work, but she loves it.

Having been in the industry for 25 years and opening Monique Thérèse in 2005, Thérèse says that the store has gone from strength to strength in exciting creative ventures. “I enjoy what I do”, she says and get great joy from the “satisfaction of people loving what I do, especially if I can realise their vision”.

It’s not always a happy ending though, “Sometimes I have sellers regret, “Thérèse admits, recalling a particular piece. “I had collated these stones for a while and thought, if I was making this for me, this is what I would do. I made this really cool tsavorite garnet ring. I put it in the shop and thought well, if you wait for me you wait for me, but it didn’t wait for me”.

For those wondering what tsavorite is, it’s a rare type of garnet that is bright “spring-grass” green in colour. Thérèse likens it to an emerald but notes that it is more intense and vibrant. Finding the right colour for each piece can be a painstaking task with each stone coming in a wide spectrum of shades. Many people associate sapphires with blue, but Thérèse notes that sapphires can come in a rainbow of colours from orange to yellow, purple or pink.

Sourcing one-off stones can be a lengthy process and Thérèse goes the extra mile where necessary, extending her search to contacts overseas. She recalls that it once took her around eight months just to find the right shade of pink sapphire for a client.

The store is renowned for their custom-made rings, but Thérèse’s jewellery item of choice is a statement pair of earrings. “That’s more up my alley because for me, wearing rings is difficult because of what I do. I like to do earrings that are big and fun” she says pointing to

WEAR WHAT YOU

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WHAT YOU WEAR

Latest fashion accessories Lots more Jewellery & Bags instore

Cotton Linen Clothing

her own striking geometric pair that she created during lockdown.

Most of Thérèse’s clientele engage her to create something for themselves but she does have people coming in store to commission a surprise for their loved one. Thérèse recalls a recent project that was a gift, where the client briefed her to “give it a New Zealand feel”. This unique project saw her use many different tones of blue and blue greens to create an oceanic vibe.

Thérèse warns that when gifting jewellery, you really do need to know who you’re buying for. “Know what size they will wear whether it’s a ring, earrings, pendant. Know what colour tones they like, whether they like stones, something plain or something more avant-garde”. She

says it’s about a 50:50 split between those who know what their loved one wants and those who have no idea.

“That’s when a voucher is a good idea”, she says and suggests bringing them in to shop together “because it’s coming from the heart, and you want someone to love it”.

It’s clear that the ethos of Monique Thérèse is to create timeless jewellery, but Thérèse notes that as with fashion, there are trends in the industry. “I find things that have been dormant for a while tend to come back. I feel like red could be on the horizon and from what my children seem to be diving into, vintage seems to be making a comeback”, she says. Ultimately though, Thérèse doesn’t follow trends, instead trusting her gut with what she likes, and she suggests that others do the same.

As well as readymade and custom-made jewellery, Monique Thérèse offers a restoration service. Thérèse’s top tip for caring for your jewellery is it should be “the last thing you put on in the morning and the first thing you take off when you get home”. She says that rings are most often damaged because people tend to wear them doing everything whereas “taking them off every night will preserve the life of your ring tenfold”.

When asked if jewellery is what she notices first about someone, Thérèse laughs and says that funnily enough it’s not something she takes note of, as she is always focused on the person. When creating the perfect piece for someone she says that “it’s about communication and listening – then you can’t get it wrong”.

Havelock Rd | Havelock North | P 06 877 9851 | monique@creatifdesign.co.nz www.moniquetheresejewellers.com | www.Facebook.com/moniquetheresejewellers

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