With its five-year milestone on the horizon for Clyde boutique Lily & Esther owner Anna McRichie is quietly preparing to raise a glass to her store and its celebration of New Zealand designer clothing.

“Our fashion story started with just six designer labels – Juliette Hogan, Company of Strangers, Twenty-seven names, Kowtow, Standard Issue and Staple + Cloth with accessories from Karen Walker Eyewear, Chaos & Harmony shoes, Linda Kingi jewellery and George & Edi candles. Since we’ve added Lela Jacobs, New Lands, Re-Create, Age Eyewear, Yu Mei and Vash bags.

Anna knew there was one distinctive label she wanted to stock from the outset.

“Karen Walker is that quintessential New Zealand designer with a significant international standing. Her KW eyewear is fashion forward and a key wardrobe item that sweetly pulls an outfit together.”

“Generally, we have seven to eight styles from the extensive KW designer sunglass range available instore and online and now there are hybrids on popular sunglass styles like Immortal and Phoenix.” 

Anna says Karen Walker herself often pops into the boutique when she is in Clyde.

“It’s always fun having a visit from her and her husband Mikhail and nice to get their feedback on what’s happening in the fashion industry.”

For the winter season Anna has added Kapeka possum merino silk gloves and leg warmers to her high fashion range and this spring will introduce two new labels to the store.

“I am super excited to be bringing Kate Sylvester to Clyde – so many customers ask if we stock her – and our very first Australian designer Maggie the Label. Watch this space.”