All you need to know about Shjark 2019
Image: Shjark AW19
Shjark collections are never heavily themed, however, A/W 19 has been inspired by the TV series Mad Men; a visual feast set in 1960s New York which follows the lives of the ruthlessly competitive men and women of Madison Avenue advertising.
The unique colour palette is the basis and starting point of all Shjark collections, and that is where they spend the most time during development.
The range is designed as a capsule wardrobe each season, and A/W 19 is full of rich bordeaux's, mixed with burnt rusts and a bright poppy hue. The unique bronze and chestnut tones also sit beautifully alongside the staples of navy and charcoal.
This season has also had a strong focus on texture, blending sleek silks with velvets, cable knits, cashmere finish coatings and furs with crushed satins. Focused on natural fibres as always, and proudly made in New Zealand.
Image: Amber Gardner
We have asked Amber Gardner, the owner/director/designer of New Zealand-made womenswear brand, Shjark a few questions to get to know the women behind the label a little more.
Whats your favourite food?
Anything with fresh local produce, made with love.
Whats your favourite music?
I love a range of music from The Kills, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Queens of the Stone Age to Nick Cave, Bob Dylan and The Velvet Underground. We have had Leon Bridges on repeat in the studio this week.
What's your favourite holiday destination?
Bali for fun, Vanuatu for rest, and the Californian desert is on my wishlist for adventure and inspiration.
Who is your style muse?
I have a total girl crush on Caroline de Maigret, a French woman with style and class, ageing gracefully, with a killer sense of humour. And my mum of course, she wears 100% Shjark these days and wears it so damn well.
What do you love most about being a girl boss?
That I'm busy tending to my own 'garden' and no longer workin' for the 'man'.
What we have at Sisters & Co from the collection:
The Hitchcock Blouse in Poppy and Ivory: The Hitchcock Blouse is our favourite combination of feminine with a rock'n'roll edge. An easy to wear style in a beautiful cotton / silk, with flattering gathers and a subtle romantic sleeve. The softness of the fabric makes it perfect for tucking, layering and wearing under tailored jackets. Fully tuck into skirts or wear loose over slim-fit trousers for the office. The Hitchcock Blouse can also be layered under structured dresses to carry them through into the cooler months.
The Madison Jacket in Rust: The Madison Jacket in Rust mid-weight wool is an easy everyday blazer, and features structured tailoring in a relaxed silhouette with a lower armhole to allow room for layering over chunkier knits. Burnt Rust looks chic worn with navy, black, beige and ivory, and is a great way to incorporate colour into our often subdued winter wardrobes.
The Madison Trouser in Fawn: A flattering mid-rise style, the Madison Trouser will give you legs for days. The Fawn colour-way is cut in a light wool / cashmere making it the perfect trans-seasonal weight. Pair with soft whites and matching beiges for an effortless take on tonal dressing.
The Hudson Top in Black: The Hudson Top is an easy-care easy-wear Shjark staple. Relaxed through the body, it features a unique slim kimono sleeve to the elbow. Wear tucked into high-waisted trousers and skirts, or out over slim fit denim.
The Milla Tee in Rust: A Shjark essential, our 100% NZ merino Milla Tee is a slim fit straight cut tee designed to sit close to the body to make the most of the yarn’s warming and moisture-wicking qualities. Can be worn on its own with denim between seasons or layered under dresses. The Cable Crew The designer's pick - you won't want to live without this one once you try it. Super soft, super fine 100% wool in a slim, flattering silhouette. The bias cable makes this jumper fit like a dream. Layer over a crisp white shirt for a polished look.
Upcoming at Sisters & Co:
The Stirling Shirt in Bordeaux: Elevate your wardrobe with this season's must-have statement shirt, the Stirling. Cut in 100% Japanese cotton it features a statement collar and cuff. Layer under dresses, jumpers and blazers to add instant edge and polish.
The Austin Jumper in Bronze and Black: The silhouette of the Austin Jumper will have you craving cooler days. Its balloon sleeve, relaxed fit and scalloped polo neck are everything we're dreaming of this season. Wear loosely tucked into denim with a statement belt.
The Wayfarer Coat in Bronze: You will live in this coat this winter. A relaxed cocoon style, the Wayfarer will keep you comfortable, cosy and looking chic. Crisp whites really make this Bronze colour-way pop so pair it with your favourite statement shirt and wear with dark denim.
The Corsica Cami in Sage and Black: A wardrobe must have, the bias cut Corsica Cami will be your new go to, taking you from day to evening with ease. Wear as is or layered with a tee, shirt or blazer. The Corsica Slip Dress in Sage and Black: A winner every season, the Corsica Slip Dress has quickly become a Shjark staple. It is cut on the bias with inseam pockets and adjustable straps. Style over fine knitwear or soft blousing as temperatures cool.
The Maton Dress in Charcoal: A knit dress to live in. If you are already a fan of our much coveted Mariner Tee, you will love the Maton Dress. A relaxed, easy style, wear it against the skin, or layered up over a statement shirt or polo.
