Ragtrader is reaching out to the buyers attending New Zealand Fashion Week this week to talk trends and strategies. Next up is Vicki Taylor, the owner of The Shelter and Taylor Boutique.
Which new local brands have you added to your website this year?
Over the last year, it’s been about expanding our Emerging Designer Program. We’ve added New Zealand designers Āhuru, Dimock, Jung-Ying, Oscar Clive Darling and most recently Winnie Catherine. We are really excited about how the program is developing as we see local brands grow.
In terms of internationals, we are about to launch Y’s in Yohji Yamamoto and have a few more to come towards the end of the year.
Which brands and categories are performing the strongest?
Taylor, our in-house brand, always performs well. We’ve had a great reaction to Rory William Docherty after his London Fashion Week Show last year. Similar to those who have activated with Fashion Week last year and continuously work on sharing new pieces throughout the year. Accessories have had a great uplift for us with the introduction of Discord Bags by Yohji Yamamoto.
For NZFW, which brands or runways are you most excited to see?
We are excited to be taking part in Lela Jacobs’ COLLAR exhibition, along with a few of our own Shelter creatives. This year, I’m lucky enough to be judging the Future of Fashion award, so I’m looking forward to seeing the garments under catwalk lights.
How are you navigating the buying space amid geopolitical challenges?
I wouldn’t call it being careful, but we are being more discerning when it comes to adding new brands to The Shelter. We are investing more in our local brands through the emerging designer program, as it’s so tough for young brands to get traction during this time. So for us, it’s about supporting local and displaying them alongside key international designers.
What will be the next fashion trend in New Zealand?
We try to stay away from trends. We want our clients to invest in pieces that they will love forever. I do, however, love that people are expressing their style more – and being more adventurous with the brands they explore.