Well regarded for its coveted collection of New Zealand and international designer fashion Wānaka’s Escape Clothing has been a style institution for almost 20 years.

Owner Lucy Lucas has a natural knack for fashion and trends and personally selects an exclusive range of garments from leading designers such as Trelise Cooper, Camilla, Loobies Story, Summery Copenhagen and Diesel.

“Some of the range is high-end, complemented by middle of the road but high-quality and practical pieces. We always have new stock arriving and I curate the seasons with garments that were made to be treasured, having been designed with versatility and longevity in mind. We cater to fashion-conscious women aged 30-80 – it’s lovely having access to such a wide range of designers because it enables us to find something special for everyone.”  

Styling outfits and accessories, finding the perfect fit for any figure and deciphering colours to enhance skin tones is all part of the Escape Clothing experience.

 Lucy has had a passion for design and textiles since the age of 10 when her mother taught her to sew.  She continued her fashion journey by completing a Bachelor of Consumer and Applied Science, majoring in Clothing, Textile Science and Design.

Today, summer is her favourite fashion season and the team at Escape on upper Admore Street are adept in helping women find the perfect wedding guest frock, a dream-fitting pair of jeans or flirty and flattering swimwear.

“One of my biggest-selling brands for weddings and resort wear is Camilla and Moss & Spy. Both are Australian labels and very easy to wear,” she says. “Camilla is crafted from their signature silks and designed in-house, so customers can be sure there are not a million people dressed in the same design.”

“I also love selling our Kiwi brands Loobies Story and Trelise Cooper – I choose pieces that are feminine and uplifting and will take the wearer from day to night with a change of shoes and accessories. We also have the largest swimwear range in Wānaka, stocking both Jets and Seafolly, and we really enjoy helping women choose the best swimwear for their shape.”

Along with pretty florals, checks and floaty fabrics Lucy says that fun, bright colours are hot for summer ’23 – perhaps a reflection of happier days ahead post-Covid-19.

“Highlight colours are fuchsia and kelly greens and beautiful floral prints finished with embellishments are still going strong. Linens are also making a comeback in pintuck tops and shirts as well as easy, natural-coloured pants.”