As we say ‘ciao!’ to another Milan Fashion Week, it’s time to take a look at the trends that were dominating the catwalk. Cavalli SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com As another week in the spring/summer ‘24 fashion circuit comes to a close, we’re once again turning our attention to the runways for insight into what’s new and trending for the coming seasons. Home to many of the industry’s most iconic houses (read: Prada, Max Mara, Fendi and Armani), Milan Fashion Week stands as one of the most anticipated weeks in the fashion calendar. While we’re continuing to see established trends such as double denim and leather reign supreme, this week gave us a fresh serving of sartorial trends that have us excited for warmer days. Below, we take you through five trends that have been seen everywhere this week that you can start wearing now. Ferretti SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com Prada SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com 1. Western front If we have one takeaway from Milano, it’s that fringe and tassels are most definitely here to stay. Many iterations of the Western-style trend were seen across the runways this week, including at Alberta Ferretti, Moschino, Cavalli and Prada – to name only a few. Featured on everything from bags to skirts to coat hems, this trend is perfectly suited for those with a penchant for the dramatic.  Tom Ford SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com Blumarine SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com 2. All talk, no trousers Last year it was all about the thigh-grazing micro-mini skirts (thanks to Miu Miu’s SS22 show), but this season we’re seeing designers take things a step further by sending models down the runway pantless. From Blumarine, who had multiple models donning butterfly-shaped underwear, to Tom Ford, who had a plethora of bodysuits and underwear on display, this week’s shows brought new meaning to the saying ‘less is more’.  Prada SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com Blumarine SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com 3. Peek-a-boo Say hello to all things sheer according to this week’s show roster. Leaving little to the imagination, designers debuted a variety of looks made of ultra-sheer materials, including PVC, silk organza and crochet. Ferretti SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com Anteprima SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com 4. White out Nothing says summer like a return to your trusty white wardrobe staples, and it seems that the fashion week runways agree. A medley of white hues stormed the catwalk, ranging from ivory to cream and everything in between.  Del Core SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com Burani SS24. Source: spotlight.launchmetrics.com 5. All that glitters Much like New York Fashion Week, shimmery embellishments were having a major moment in Milan this week. There was Blumarine, who went heavy on the diamantés; Del Core, who opted for modest crystal beading; and Burani who showcased a spectacle of sequins.

In conversation with Olivia Cashmore on her confident new collection, Quality over Deadlines. Olivia Cashmore. Image: supplied. Good things take time, as the saying goes, and Olivia Cashmore’s latest collection serves as a compelling embodiment of this truth. Despite the apparent quietude on the brand’s Instagram page in recent months, the reality reveals a deliberate pause as Cashmore took the time to crystallise her label’s creative vision moving forward. Today, that vision materialised with the unveiling of her fifth eponymous collection, ‘Quality over Deadlines’. With more than a year having gone by since the release of her previous collection, this release serves as a much-needed dose of sartorial inspiration to those of us who had been feeling her absence.  Before launching her independent label in mid-2021, the designer spent years designing for fellow Kiwi brand Maggie Marilyn, and after two years solo it appears that Cashmore’s aesthetic is more confident and defined than ever. Quality over Deadlines serves as an homage to the busy modern woman, characterised by its crisp tailoring, luscious fabrics and timeless silhouettes – each crafted to be worn for years to come.  Prior to the collection’s launch online today, FQ had the privilege of sitting down with Cashmore. Below, she shares insight into her personal journey, the muses that fuel her creativity, and the positivity in taking a pause. Q&A with designer Olivia Cashmore Tell us a bit about you and your fashion background. For as long as I can remember, I have always loved clothes. My parents tell me that as a young girl I would lay their clothes out for them in the mornings and would even include their accessories and undergarments. Always detail oriented. I started sewing when I was 11 years old and from there my passion grew and grew. During my studies at university I worked for New Zealand label Taylor Boutique gaining knowledge in sales, customer service, production and sampling. After graduating, I worked at Maggie Marilyn, starting off in production and ending in design. I had always dreamed of having my own business one day (although I didn’t think it would be this soon), and so here I am today. It’s not without its fair share of challenges, but I am having lots of fun seeing it grow. Congratulations on your beautiful new collection! Could you please tell us a bit moreabout it and the inspiration behind it? Thank you so much. I stumbled upon these beautiful images of parachutes that were used in an art exhibition. They were light, whimsical and delicate, but enabled a person to fly. That inspired me to use sheer fabrics paired with strong tailored silhouettes. To my mind, reflecting the contrast between the lightness of a parachute yet its ability to hold a person. Delicate yet strong. How long has it been since you’ve launched a collection? Talk us through the process and what your challenges were. The last collection I launched was this time last year – Summer 22/23. This year I have been recutting my most popular styles only. At the end of 2022 when I sat down to design Winter for this year, I was already feeling the underlying pressure to produce a collection. I decided to allow myself the space and time to produce pieces that are worthy to be made. The result is this new collection, however all the pieces will continue to be available as the start of OC staples. On the topic of your collection’s title ‘Quality over Deadlines’ – what made you call it that and what significance does this name hold for you? It’s hard to avoid the sense of ‘trying to keep up’ because of course you need stock to sell but I was cautious of rushing styles through just for the sake of it. Hence the name Quality over Deadlines. This collection feels like such a homecoming for me, in the sense that OC has a clear design direction. I decided to take my time to ensure it is of quality and worth, not just to me but for the customer. Do you have a muse for this collection? Who’s someone you’d love to see wearing it? Is it bad if I say myself?! I wouldn’t offer my customers anything I wouldn’t be happy wearing. But Christine Centenera (Fashion Director of Vogue Australia) has always inspired me. I first startedfollowing her when I was in high school. I had never seen someone style outfits the way she did(does), such an epic combination of casual and formal. I used to try and recreate her outfits withpieces I had in my wardrobe! One day, I’d love to see her in some of my pieces. What’s your favourite piece from the collection? And why do you love it? The Willimena Dress hands down. Shout out to my brilliant pattern maker for bringing my sketch to life. This style for me encapsulates the brand’s aesthetic beautifully. An elegant, timeless piece with a twist. The drape is strategically placed to create an hourglass silhouette which is flattering and sexy. I can’t wait to wear this piece with a pair of flats and heels. How would you describe this collection in three words? Uncompromising, eternal, exquisite. In what ways has your brand identity or vision evolved since you began your label? This collection expresses confidence in the brand’s direction. It epitomises how I describe the brand ‘classic silhouettes combine the luxurious nonchalance of precise masculine tailoring with the comfort and wearability of feminine ease’.

Got a penchant for pre-loved pieces? Creative director Olivia Spencer shares her top op-shopping tips off the back of a charitable campaign with Dove Hospice. In a world where trends are as fleeting as the weather, and overconsumption is bearing heavily on the planet, second-hand shopping is steadily gaining ground as the preferred option for fashion enthusiasts committed to reducing their carbon footprint. From vintage boutiques to online resale platforms, there’s a multitude of ways to get your preloved fix.   One individual who has mastered the art of finding hidden gems is FQ Friday Muse Olivia Spencer, who recently lent her styling skills to Dove Hospice in a campaign designed to alter perceptions of second-hand shopping. “I’ve always been an op-shopper, and I love the idea of giving new life to second-hand clothing, both for sustainability reasons, but also because there are so many treasures to be found,” says Spencer.  “I wanted to show how second hand clothing can have the gloss and glamour found elsewhere in fashion, and bust that myth that secondhand is less stylish.”  Over the course of a few days, Spencer sifted through styles at Dove Hospice stores throughout Tāmaki Makaurau, curating four looks to complement four different models and their unique personalities. Following the launch of the campaign, FQ sat down with Spencer to glean her insights on navigating the world of second-hand treasures.  Below, she gives us her top five tips to ensure every pre-loved purchase is a perfect match.  1. Take your time Anyone who’s been in a consignment store or op shop before is well aware of the sheer volume to explore, and while it’s easy to get shopper’s fatigue trawling through endless racks, Spencer stresses the importance of taking your time. “Second-hand shopping never works if I’m in a rush,” she explains, “It’s about putting the time in with your searching.”  2. Be in the right mood Shopping is often celebrated for its therapeutic qualities, yet we all know the frustration of trying to assemble an outfit when you aren’t quite in the mood. When it comes to second-hand shopping, particularly, mood matters more than you might think, and for Spencer, being in a positive, creative head space is the best way to find those standout pieces. 3. Try the men’s section The ‘borrowed from the boys’ aesthetic is one we’re seeing a lot on the runways and on social media as of late, and according to Spencer, it’s a great way to diversify your ensemble. “I always hit the men’s racks first,” she says, “That’s where you find the cool oversized shirts and jackets.” 4. Pay attention to fabrics When you’re searching through the racks at a second hand store, don’t just rely on your eyes – your sense of touch can also be a valuable asset. To identify good quality garments, Spencer recommends looking at what they’re made of first. “I’m always first attracted to fabrics – if I see a fabric that catches my eye, I’ll pull it out and have a good look.” High-quality fabrics tend to feel soft, smooth, and substantial. Look out for natural fibres like silk, wool, and cotton, which age better than synthetics and offer unparalleled comfort. 5. Consider your mindset If you’re new to the world of preloved fashion and have by default always purchased new, reconsidering your approach to second-hand shopping can offer a fresh perspective. “I try to think of second-hand stores as no different to any other boutique or fashion store,” says Spencer, “Just because the items are pre-loved doesn’t make them any less appealing to me.” If designer threads are what you’re after, consignment stores like Tatty’s are a great place to try. But if you’re more in the market for thrifty finds, you can’t go past a hospice shop or Salvation Army.

As seen on FQ’s editorial assistant Amberley Colby, a simple white sneaker needn’t be boring to do the job. On the topic of the quintessential summer sneaker, a considered pair can elevate an outfit just as easily as it can dress it down for a casual cool appearance. Opting for ECCO’s Nouvelle silhouette to slip seamlessly in with Amberley’s personal edit, this particular style delivers sneaker comfort in a classic dress shoe shape (note its metal eyelets, thick textile laces, and textured leather finish).  How we style it: Sighted out and about in Tamaki Makaurau/Auckland’s central Grey Lynn and surrounding suburbs, Amberley styles her ECCO Nouvelles with dark denim separates by Kate Sylvester, Georgia Jay baguette bag, and oversized gold Jasmin Sparrow earrings for practical yet chic look. For a more on-duty look, she’ll style them with wide back trousers, a black blazer, and her monochromatic Paris Georgia heart singlet. The Nouvelles have a lugged sole which add a more edgy aesthetic, perfect for Amberley’s style. Amberley wears the ECCO Nouvelle. ECCO Nouvelle 'white', $289.99 How to pick your pair: Though a classic sneaker is universally versatile, that doesn’t mean to say you’re restricted to a plain white pair. Selecting styles which complement your lifestyle and wardrobe will ensure maximum comfort and confidence. Coming into summer, pastels or neutrals will work tirelessly or you could even mix it up with playful prints and colour for a more maximalist expression. For those with a calm, more coastal aesthetic, the Soft 7s in hues like grey rose or air/powder will add a subdued softness to classic pieces. For those who like to hit the pavement or pilates studio often, you may be better suited to a style that reflects your active lifestyle like the Gruuv. And for our leisurely lunchers and shopping boutique strollers, embrace urban details seen in the Street 720s which come in multiple colourways to suit your mood. ECCO Soft 7 'air/powder', $329.99 ECCO Gruuv 'white/light grey', $339.99 ECCO Street 720 W 'multicolour air', $379.99 What to look out for: Quality, ethical manufacture, timeless styles and features designed specifically for comfort or ventilation are all green flags when choosing your summer sneaker. Motivated by Danish minimalism and driven by comfort, ECCO is an ideal starting point for premium sneakers. Most ECCO sneakers are crafted from artisanal leather made in ECCO’s own tanneries using the ECCO Dritan method of reducing water and chemicals used during the leather tanning process. Plus, most styles offer their FLUIDFORM construction which provides soft, flexible, fluid movement and/or PHORENE groove-patterned soles which absorb shock and add bounce for ultra-cushy walking experience. Some of their more active sneakers also feature Goretex waterproofing and 360 degrees of circulation to keep feet temperate. Ideal when battling fluctuating temperatures and climates.