KEY POINTS:
Several new local bag loan websites have launched recently, so now you can hire everything from a Fendi Indy to a Prada Bowler. Check out Armcandy.co.nz
and Loanmeorownme.com
and shop to your heart's content. We particulary like this Gucci Pop bag, available
from Loan Me or Own Me. Or if classics are more your thing, visit TheSecretWardrobe.co.nz - they have a Hermes Birkin up for hire, as well as a Hermes Kelly and a classic Chanel flap bag (similar to a 2.55). Perfect for bag lovers who don't have the paycheck to match their obsession.
Hair ablaze
Blaze is the latest Auckland salon to offer specialised hair treatments, and new on its menu is the Redken Real Control treatment, especially suited to hair that has taken a hammering from tongs, heat and colour. In just over an hour you can have a conditioning treatment, massage and a blow-wave. If you're lucky you can book in with the Newmarket salon's co-owner Mana Dave, who was recently named New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year at the Australian Hair Expo. The Redken range will also be available at other top salons and, with the exception of the intense renewal masque, can be bought for at home use.
Bag a billboard
A bag made from recycled billboard materials may sound a bit rank, but recycling is oh so fashionable - and Max is joining in on the sustainable trend by introducing bags made from old Max billboard ads. The colourful waterproof tote bags, $49, are in store now from all Max stores, with profits going to the Max Foundation for New Zealand Women. And the best thing? Each bag is one-of-a-kind.
Brand new jewellery
Slashie extraordinaire Welfe Bowyer (he's a jewellery designer/graphic designer/party photographer/DJ) has released a new range of jewellery under his Neon Sleep label. This season's range of enamel jewellery is inspired by monsters, claws and bones, and features bold necklaces in red, white and turquoise. Stenbeck & Morse have a selection from the range in-store now, priced from $125. Ph (09) 520 2110.
New undies
Jockey have launched a new limited edition range called Koco, taking inspiration from the elegant 1920s. The feminine lace trim underwear and slips consist of 90 per cent nylon and 10 per cent lycra - which means it's wonderfully soft and silky. Jockey Koco is available for a limited time from Farmers, and is priced from $19.99.
Shiny happy people
Scarpa have had a new drop of hot footwear, including metallic shoes from Italian brand Jeannot. If you've ever wanted silver or gold sneakers, then you're in luck. There are also shiny wedge heels and glam flats. Ph (09) 520 6127.
Candles in the wind
World Beauty are exclusively stocking a selection of luxury French candles from Maison de Cire Trudon. The brand dates back to 1643, and has supplied candles to royalty, churches and cathedrals. Now you can have the opulent candles burning in your home. Get them from World Beauty stores.
Indulge your senses
The Westin was the place to be seen during Fashion Week and to celebrate, the hotel's Senses Spa & Wellness Centre has a special offer for Viva readers. Simply book a Beyond Senses experience before the end of October and you will pay a special price of $200 instead of the normal $290. The Beyond Senses treatment features two therapists performing a combination of Balinese, Thai, Swedish and Aromatherapy therapies, together with a hot stone treatment. Trust us, it is amazing. To get the special price, simply mention the Viva offer when you book on (09) 909 9000.