BEST FOOT FORWARD
Vern and Andrea Bailey are the dynamic duo behind the iconic shoe wear stalwart Andrea Biani, located at Merivale Mall.
Andrea Biani brings you the absolute best footwear ranges from local and international brands. Sourcing new products for the seasons ahead is often inspired by the people Andrea and Vern meet. The couple seeks out new trends to interpret to the local market here in New Zealand.
Andrea mentions she and Vern have been in the footwear industry their entire working lives. “We both started selling shoes when we left school and moved through the ranks to be able to manage our own stores…both at the young age of 21! We met in Wellington, and after experiencing the corporate world of shoe retailing, we moved to Christchurch in 1996 and bought Andrea Biani.”
While Andrea Biani sources great shoes from every corner of the globe, its central mission is the Andrea Biani brand, and the team works passionately every season to deliver styles that will be loved and worn for years to come. They are always focused on the ethical and environmental processes to do so.
Treasure Box is the next evolution for the Andrea Biani brand. This is located right next to the flagship store in Merivale Mall.
It is described as a ‘haven full of gorgeousness’ and a place for both mothers and daughters to find great pieces to wear for everyday luxury. With brands in store such as Deadly Ponies, Camila and Marc, Gregory, and Diesel, the aim of Treasure Box is to offer everyday luxury and sustainability in the ranges they offer.
“Being a part of the local community while raising our family really connected us to our market. We adore seeing familiar faces and celebrating their special moments, like marriage and starting their own families. We are able to be a part of so many special journeys. We love seeing the generations within families visiting our stores here in Merivale Mall.”
You will often see Vern buzzing around Christchurch in the Andrea Biani van, making sure that shelves of both stores are filled with stock and customer orders are fulfilled.
When quizzed on Andrea Biani’s longevity here in Ōtautahi, Andrea herself mentions it’s all about keeping it real.
“Over the years, we’ve made sure we listen to our customers to keep the brand fresh and current with the latest trends of the season.”
Andrea offers some sage advice for all those shoe lovers out there.
“Wear a different pair each day, and let your shoes rest! Make sure your shoes are comfortable in store before you leave with your purchase. Nothing ever beats buying quality. And make sure you clean your shoes regularly…they will love you for it!”