AUCKLAND: Kiwi fashion identity Paula Ryan is the only designer to be recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours List announced in New Zealand over the weekend.
The Auckland-based designer, who runs her own label and also works as a stylist for national broadcaster Television New Zealand, was named an Officer of the Order for her services to fashion.
Ryan, who runs a styling business/magazine titled Simply You as well as her own eponymous fashion label, first rose to prominence across the Tasman when she was named the founding editor of Fashion Quarterly more than 25 years ago.
She has also created a lifestyle brand focused on essential styles using Italian knits and a superfine New Zealand merino fabric. She also designs leatherwear, belts, bags and footwear.
The Paula Ryan label is also stocked at a number of Australian boutiques among them Strelitzia (NSW), Avocado (VIC), Amelie (QLD), Francesca Boutique (SA) and Finity (WA).