KEY POINTS:
Barkers have put together a pack that includes everything a man needs for a perfect weekend wardrobe - think a shirt, polo shirt, shorts, jeans, pants, knitwear and basics like undies, socks and tees. You'll get all of that for only $650, saving up to $399 - plus
a free travel bag to put it all in. But it's available only to Barkers VIPs. To become one, simply visit their website and sign up. And as well as being able to make use of the offer, you'll get a 10 per cent VIP discount and exclusive offers. www.barkersonline.co.nz.
Designer classic
We think this is one of the best ideas we've heard in ages - seven local designers have created special jandal designs that will help to raise funds for the KidsCan Charitable Trust. The Designer Jandals range features designs from Zambesi, Hailwood, Carlson, Sera Lilly, Kingan Jones, Caroline Church and Elusiv. And they're only $12.99 - with $5 from each pair sold going towards supporting KidsCan's community programmes. The jandals are available from Number 1 Shoes nationwide, but get in quick as only 10,000 have been made. For more information, visit www.kidscan.org.nz.
New label for you
If you're looking for a Kiwi-themed Christmas gift for friends and family based overseas that isn't well, tacky, check out Kinoo. The label launched last month, and features New Zealand designed and made products including apparel, homeware and paper products. We particularly like the Kiwi wrapping paper and printed T-shirts - and the prices are very reasonable too. The range is available from Garden Party and Style Direct in Ponsonby, and also from www.endemicworld.com. Visit www.kinoo.co.nz for more information.
A gold class wedding
Styledirect has a special wedding register with a twist that is sure to get summer brides excited. Those who register using the Gold Class Register at the Ponsonby Rd design store will be able to peruse for items on the shelves, as well as being taken on a guided tour of Auckland's leading supplier showrooms, where most stores get their product - this includes everything from kitchenware, furniture, art and more. Styledirect owner Shaz
Dixon and interior designer Sally McVicar can also provide a personalised home-interior consultation, so couples can discuss exactly what they need on their wedding register. This Gold Class Wedding Register service is $500. Styledirect also offer a more traditional register service, where couples can choose what suits them from the store and from a couple of key suppliers. For more information on the service, phone Styledirect on (09) 376 6577.
A secret wardrobe
Attention shoppers: The Secret Wardrobe has opened a store in Parnell. Originally a website, The Secret Wardrobe is a dress hire service started by Carol Abernethy. She scours the world to find dresses, bags and accessories by key international designers - think Chloe, YSL, Marc Jacobs and more - all available to hire for a big night out. The store will sit alongside their website. Visit the store at 114 The Strand, Parnell.
Minx shoes arrives
Minx footwear have a new flagship store at 419 Remuera Rd. The store houses the brand's unique, colourful and quirky footwear alongside a bespoke perspex counter and glass bubble lighting handmade by Wanganui artist Katie Brown. Ph (09) 520 0990.