STORMING INTO SPRING
Spring 2021 has been a rather mixed bag so far, bringing lockdowns, along with golden days, blossom, and daffodils. A handful of optimism wouldn’t go amiss as we start looking ahead to New Zealand Cup Week and start planning what to wear.
If you’re particularly interested in something versatile that you will love and keep on wearing long after the races are over, then STORM at Merivale Mall has many great options.
“We have an amazing collection of silk printed dresses this season,” says STORM’s Creative Director Deborah Caldwell. “This was definitely a big opportunity for us this season. With florals, smudgy pinks and purples, dark and moody as well, there is something for everyone.”
This season, a top pick is the store’s new Killick Slip Dress, a beautiful satin midi that fits well and is flattering for most body shapes. Designed with love, a new collection of leather bags, soon to be unleashed, will be worth waiting for. They’re perfectly sized for both events and everyday use. While in-store, browse the timeless pieces from Silk & Steel jewellery, STORM’s sister New Zealand brand.
Deborah has been involved in New Zealand’s fashion industry for over 30 years. Back in 2005, she saw there was a gap in the market for fashion with an edge, inspired by beautiful fabrics and unique prints.
“I had a very clear vision and the passion to make it happen. The journey of STORM began from my home on the North Shore of Auckland, and we then opened our first Christchurch store in 2006. We used to have two stores in Christchurch – one on High Street, which then became a Cashel Mall container store, and our Merivale Mall store.”
Today, STORM is revered for its iconic rock ‘n’ roll edge, representing confident women with an inner rock star attitude.
“Our collections are exclusive, and pieces are rarely repeated. Our customers know they’re purchasing something that will last a long time and keep them standing apart from the crowd.”
Rather than being influenced by trends, STORM takes a long term view on fashion and has a range of iconic pieces. “In saying that, we are seeing a lot more wide-leg pants and oversize blazers – I personally love this look as it can be quite relaxed or made more formal for work by just changing out your shoe.”
Everyday wear has never looked better, with STORM having just refreshed some popular pieces from their last spring-time collection, including a coveted jumpsuit and satin pants. Expect also a great mix of exciting new fabrics. Joining their coveted line-up of silk prints will be silk/cotton blends, Tencels, and other luxe-to-touch fabrics.
For Deborah, inspiration starts with the fabrics and all prints selected are exclusive to STORM.
Out of last year’s lockdown came the STORM Styling Boutique, a brand new concept store – and even a their own gin, called Black Wolf Gin. New ideas are brewing out of this latest lockdown. Of course, the online store with the latest look books is always open.
STORM at Merivale Mall has a fantastic team of stylists who value their authentic relationships with customers.
“They give very real and honest styling advice. We want your STORM pieces to be pieces you feel good in and want to wear for years to come. It’s great when they can leave our store feeling and looking amazing.”