Trendsetters. Game Changers. New Zealand Industry Leaders. We speak to entrepreneurs who are leading the way and inspiring hearts around the globe.
THE WILD ONES – 2017 Industry Panel Addition
Kristine Crabb – MISS CRABB
Creative trailblazer Kristine Crabb opened up the K road store Rip Shit and Bust in 2001 as more of a creative and experimental outlet for herself and her art school friends. Three years later and under her own direction, a contrastingly refined Miss Crabb store was opened on Auckland’s Ponsonby Road. This was the beginning of an exceptionally fashion forward and long lasting New Zealand brand that every trendsetter is wearing.
Each Miss Crabb design is New Zealand produced and Kristine herself cuts all the patterns, which transforms these beautiful natural fabrics into multiple season enduring pieces. Her captivating garments are made for women to feel beautiful, empowered, free and strong. A Miss Crabb piece is at once skilfully complex and seemingly simple in its construction and appearance. More Bridesmaids and brides alike have started choosing Miss Crabb dresses for a more refined yet relaxed vibe while remaining consistently chic.
Now an icon in the New Zealand fashion industry, Kristine has completely changed the game and consistently raises the bar with every new collection.
We were so lucky to have Kristine as part of our Industry panel at our wild Hearts Auckland 2017 and we look forward to having Miss Crabb back on the runway in 2018.
Back when you first began, who did you look to and think ‘I want to be like them?
My Grandmother on my fathers side – Gloria Crabb. She had such an interesting life, she was curious about everything, flew planes, rode a motorcycle, was a singer and did what she liked. When I was little she was in her 80’s she lived in this beautiful, bit ramshackle big old house on a hill with peacocks in the garden.. and always visitors and family around. It is a very romantic life to me and one that I aspire to a little bit.
What are your thoughts on the evolving fashion industry in New Zealand, has this influenced your direction at all?
I think its so exciting, I love the energy and constant change happening in style, and in business. Its going through a very creative and more democratic time. But some things just always stay the same; people always love clothes and fashion.
One key piece of that you would give brides and maids when it comes to selecting their outfits for the big day?
Start with your dream shoes, wether its something you have always wanted or something really over the top glam, something symbolic and traditional or something simple it will inform what you decide to wear. I am a fan of keeping outfits simple and no fuss and true to your normal style. I think the wedding outfit is a bit of a symbol for your new married life so it should reflect what you want that to be.
In general what can we expect to see in occasion trends for the next season, what colours, fabrics and styles will be coming through?
I think there is a beautiful eclecticism evolving so that you can pretty much wear what you like, a real rock n roll aesthetic. Unconventional colours like black, gold or red are really cool for wedding dresses or the party. I love velvets for weddings, so so beautiful. I am also loving the trend for head wear, such as veils, tulle fascinators, tiaras, flowers and garlands, just beautiful and fun.
Winter – I know a few of us get stuck with wintertime and occasion + wedding wear. What tips can you give for winter occasion dressing?
Velvets and furs and beautiful capes and bolero’s are so cool. Sometimes covering up can be pretty sexy, long sleeves and high neck, but with plunging splits to keep things exciting. Cool lingerie and hosiery! I guess use it as an excuse to accessorise.
Can you tell us anything about the future for Miss Crabb?
Im feeling pretty inspired at the moment, making new work and sharing it with a more international audience.
Whats your favourite destination to travel to in New Zealand?
I love the far North, the vibe is very special there.
To see the full collection by Miss Crabb visit their flagship store on Ponsonby Road, Auckland or online at www.misscrabb.com and you can follow Miss Crabb on Instagram here: @miss_crabb
| CREDITS |
Photos: Light & Type, Hill Collective, Charlotte Kiri Photography and Grey Area Production. – All at Wild Hearts 2017 – Auckland, Queenstown and Christchurch.
Runway Make Up: Bobbi Brown
Runway Hair: Auckland – Hare & Hunter, Connor Adams & Graceful Hair Art. Queenstown – Pure Hair Studio. Christchurch – Graceful Hair Art.
Model Agencies – Portfolio, Red Eleven & Ican Models & Talent.
Words: Poppy Harris
