Retail Therapy: Caring bonus

Vinka Lucas. Photo / Supplied

One of the nicest in-salon hair treatments around comes with two bonuses (as well as glossy hair!) at Rodney Wayne salons from Monday until the end of May - a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Trust. And if you buy two take-home Kerastase products you get a small handbag from Saben, valued at $80. The special six-week Ritual for a Cure promotion is fronted by Petra Bagust and supported again by the salons' founder Rodney Wayne, who says:

"Ladies know the magic behind a great handbag or hairdo. Now the feel-good factor is doubled by the knowledge that you're helping stop breast cancer in its tracks."

Last year Rodney Wayne salons raised $20,000; this year, with $3 from each ritual and 10 per cent from Kerastase products going to the trust, the aim is to raise more. Clients get their hair condition diagnosed by a stylist, followed by a relaxing cleanse, scalp massage and treatment. They can then choose a two-pack of products for dry, damaged or dull hair to use at home; these range in price from $80 to $98, and will fit nicely in the grey and white Saben bag.

Oh so glam

Discover the glamour of yesteryear at Webb's Gallery, as an exhibition of gowns and garments from the Vinka Lucas Archive Collection opens today. Lucas first opened a boutique in Hamilton back in the sixties, shocking locals with her extravagant designs and dresses for Miss New Zealand contestants. She then went on to grow her label during the seventies and eighties in London, LA and the Middle East. Think patio pyjamas, kaftans, wedding dresses and luxurious evening dresses adorned with sequins, crystals, tulle and marabou feathers. Now collectors' items, the garments will be auctioned on Sunday. 9am-5.30pm, Wed-Fri. April 19 10am. 18 Manukau Rd, Newmarket. (09) 524 6804. www.webbs.co.nz

French colour

French natural makeup range Elysambre has quietly set up at 279 Parnell Rd, with a selection of refillable copper compacts allowing the stylish but environmentally friendly customer to buy cosmetics without wincing over packaging waste. The concept store has a full range of makeup and is expecting its skincare line soon.

The Elysambre range of eyeshadow colours is excellent, from classics to strong seasonal shades for the adventurous. Makeovers can be done in store to help introduce new ideas to your look. And if you buy certain makeup items at the moment, you'll get a free nail polish.

A positive vibe

While one door closes, another opens... Well, that's the case in Newmarket which has seen some fabulous fashion stores opening shop lately lately. Ed Hardy has moved into Nuffield St while Australian gymwear designer Lorna Jane has opened on Broadway, as has City Chic. Kooky has moved into the Rialto Centre, and Angela Lewis joins many other NZ designers on Teed St, including the recently returned Andrea Moore.

Also new is Judy and Anna McGaffin's beautiful store, Duchess on Nuffield. The store draws inspiration from a French chateau and comes complete with chandeliers, gilt-framed mirrors and a four-poster bed. Meanwhile, the mother and daughter team of Denise Rippin and Victoria Williams have returned to Newmarket with Double Exposure on Carlton Gore Rd.

Newmarket Business Association's marketing manager Lea Worth says despite the recession she is branding Newmarket more than ever before. "The latest string of fashion stores confirm that Newmarket is without doubt the fashion capital of New Zealand."

Rescue remedies

Vaseline is known for its emollient qualities and now the trusted brand has broadened its skincare range with Intensive Rescue, a line of hypoallergenic products for everyday use on very dry skin, including those with eczema.

All have a mix of humectants (glycerin), to attract moisture and hold water to the skin, occlusives to form a protective barrier, and emollients to improve skin's appearance and texture.

The handcream works for us and at $5.69 it's a very recession-friendly price. There's also a foot cream, a moisturising body lotion and a rescue and repair balm, which can be applied to elbows and knees and used by those with eczema.