This month, we're celebrating fashion and homewares retailers by chatting to a range of local store owners on the Shore. From new-season arrivals to the latest trends, each business shares what's happening in-store this winter. Supporting local businesses is more important than ever, so visit these stores in person or shop online and support our wonderful retailers on our doorstep.
Art in my Wardrobe
Kashyap (Kash) Makhija and Misha Panjabi are the husband-and-wife team behind Devonport fashion store, Art in My Wardrobe, which also has an online presence. With over 15 years of experience in the fashion industry, their journey has taken them from global fashion brands to working closely with skilled artisans and makers. Misha has been a fashion buyer with Marks & Spencer before moving on to H&M, while Kash built his expertise in design and production, collaborating with some of India's leading designers. “Art in My Wardrobe was born from our shared love of colour, craftsmanship, and clothing with a story to tell. We are passionate about preserving traditional textile arts and celebrating the beauty of handmade processes, from hand block printing to intricate embroidery,” explains Misha. They believe clothing should be more than something you wear; it should be something you treasure, connecting artistry, culture, and contemporary living.
Channel Mag: Tell us about your store. How long have you been part of the local community, and what do you love about being based on the North Shore?
Misha Panjabi: We opened our Devonport store in September 2025 and have been overwhelmed by the warmth, love, and support we've received from the local community. Devonport's vibrant creative spirit, with its wonderful art galleries and community of art lovers, makes it the perfect home for Art in My Wardrobe. From the moment we opened our doors, it felt like a natural fit, bringing together a shared appreciation for artistry, craftsmanship and beautiful things.
What are customers gravitating towards this winter? Are you seeing any shifts in style or shopping habits?
This winter, our embroidered jackets have been incredibly popular. Customers are drawn to their individuality, beautiful colours, and the fact that each piece is handmade and truly unique. They're investing in pieces that feel special and timeless rather than following short-lived trends. We're also seeing a more thoughtful approach to shopping. People are buying less, but choosing pieces with greater care and intention. They appreciate the craftsmanship behind our collections and the opportunity to own something distinctive that tells a story. One of the loveliest things has been seeing customers return to purchase additional jackets as gifts for their daughters, sisters, and mums – a testament to how cherished these pieces become.
Layering is key in Auckland’s winter – what are your top tips for putting together a stylish yet practical outfit this season?
Our much-loved Trench shirt dresses are the ultimate layering piece for the season. Pop a merino underneath for those cooler days and stay warm without compromising on style. Available in chocolate, midnight black, sage green, denim, and pinstripe blue, it's easy to see why they're becoming a customer favourite. Pair yours with your favourite boots and a cosy scarf, and you're ready to take on the season in style.
What are the standout trends for winter, and what are your 'must-have' items?
Suzani embroidered velvet jackets are undoubtedly at the top of my list this season. Rich velvet adorned with vibrant, intricate embroidery brings colour, artistry, and personality to winter dressing. Each piece is unique, making it feel less like a jacket and more like a wearable treasure. They're the kind of piece that instantly elevates even the simplest outfit; warm, beautiful, one-of-a-kind, and honestly, they feel a little like being wrapped in a hug.
Do you stock any local or New Zealand designers we should know about?
We stock Antlers socks and gloves, and collaborate with local artists like Iulia Ceramics, and stock her beautiful pottery.
Complete the following: This winter, I will mostly be...
Wearing colourful stripes, a cardigan, and one of our soft cashmere stoles. I truly believe colour is the antidote to grey days; it instantly lifts my mood, adds a little energy to the day, and always sparks compliments on my morning coffee run in Devonport.
30 Victoria Road, Devonport
artinmywardrobe.co.nz
Crave Home
Lu Chen has owned the Birkenhead homewares store, Crave Home, since 2024. Originally from China, Lu has called Auckland home for over 17 years, meeting her husband here and becoming a mum to her two kids, who are now nine and seven years old. Lu says she’s always had a creative streak, which led her to study fashion design. Over time, Lu developed a strong sense of style, an eye for colour and detail, and a love of making things that are both beautiful and useful, which eventually led Lu to take over Crave Home. In an exciting development, the store is expanding to Milford, so Lu will be juggling both stores this winter.
Channel Mag: Tell us about your store. How long have you been part of the local community, and what do you love about being based on the North Shore?
Lu Chen: I have called the North Shore home since 2009, and what I love most is the real sense of community. There’s also a nice personal connection to this new store; my husband’s first job was in Milford.
What are customers gravitating towards this winter?
This winter, people are really leaning into making their homes feel cosy and calm. We’re seeing lots of soft throws, beautiful winter candles and ceramics, the kind of pieces that add warmth and make everyday spaces feel a bit more special.
What key homeware items would you recommend to cosy up our homes this winter?
You don’t need to redecorate; it's the smaller touches that make the difference. Think a soft throw like the Highland tartan throw draped over the sofa, a beautiful candle burning in the background, and ceramic pieces or a statement vase styled on a table or shelf to add a bit of depth and interest.
What are the standout trends for winter, and what are your 'must-have' items?
It’s a mix of practical and everyday pieces. Rains jackets and tote bags have been popular. For kids, Crywolf is a go-to for good quality, hard-wearing pieces. At home, it’s cushions, throws, vases and small styling pieces people can move around, along with candles and home fragrance to add warmth and atmosphere.
Do you stock any local or New Zealand designers we should know about? What makes them special or unique?
Yes, we stock pieces with a real New Zealand connection. The Thermal Bath wool scarf from Dear Marge is designed here and inspired by our geothermal landscapes, while the Rituals Collection bath salts are made on Great Barrier Island using locally sourced sea salt.
Complete the following: This winter, I will mostly be...
Splitting my time between our two North Shore stores, welcoming new faces at Milford, and enjoying time at home over winter with my family.
30 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead and 150 Kitchener Road, Milford
cravehome.co.nz
Beggs
Dave Perkin has lived locally all his life and owned Beggs XL Plus for nearly 35 years. Dave’s business focuses on quality, selection and style. It’s New Zealand’s leading premium big men's clothing retailer and has been running since 1933, and in Wairau for a couple of years. Stocking a huge range of big men's clothing in casual, formal, business, essential basics and branded fashion, they also carry a range of big size shoes, catering for sizes 11–16. Their plus-size men's clothing ranges in size from 2XL to 8XL and are sourced mainly from Europe and the UK.
Channel Mag: Tell us about your store. How long have you been part of the local community, and what do you love about being based on the North Shore?
David Perkin: Beggs was based in the city from 1933 until around two years ago, when we relocated to the Wairau Valley, which is closer to home and gives us more room for our retail and internet business.
What are customers gravitating towards this winter? Are you seeing any shifts in style or shopping habits?
The worldwide trend since Covid has moved to a more casual style of fashion, built around comfort, but smart casual and formal dress styles are still popular with men who want to look their best while being comfortable. A good example is the overshirt, which is worn like a jacket but over a t-shirt. Particularly for the North Shore, this looks good and is practical for cooler days and nights.
Why is it important for people to shop local this winter? What difference does it make to independent retailers like yours?
Local businesses across the board have generally had a very tough few years, and it is critical for North Shore residents to shop locally, otherwise businesses we rely on won’t be there next time you need them!
What are the standout trends for winter, and what are your 'must-have' items?
Our European brands are always popular with customers who appreciate the style and quality. This includes our Club of Comfort jeans and chinos, Redpoint jackets, Casa Moda shirts and quality fashion sweatshirts.
Do you stock any local or New Zealand designers we should know about? What makes them special or unique?
Our main fashion label, designed locally, is Berlin Shirts, which offers the latest style in top-quality pure cotton fabrics, which are ideal for bigger guys.
Complete the following: This winter, I will mostly be…
Trying to stay fit and active, and enjoying our beautiful part of New Zealand.
121 Wairau Rd, North Shore
beggs.co.nz
Gala Studio
Camila Guarnizo owns Gala Studio, a store that brings together her love of design, colour and thoughtful living through a collection of reusable paper vases designed to transform everyday bottles into beautiful decorative objects. Camila is originally from Colombia, moving with her Kiwi husband 14 years ago, and now calls the North Shore home. She has always been passionate about design, creativity and travel. She studied graphic design in Colombia, followed by design strategy in Buenos Aires, and later completed a Master's degree in branding and packaging design in Barcelona. Camila’s family is spread across Colombia, the UK, Australia, the Netherlands and Miami, so different cultures, places and design influences have always been part of her life.
Channel Mag: Tell us about your store. How long have you been part of the local community, and what do you love about being based on the North Shore?
Camila Guarnizo: Gala Studio is based in Takapuna and creates reusable paper vases designed in New Zealand and handcrafted with care. The North Shore has been home for many years, and I love its relaxed coastal lifestyle, creative community and strong support for local businesses. It's a wonderful place to live, work and find inspiration.
What are customers gravitating towards this winter? Are you seeing any shifts in style or shopping habits?
This winter, we're seeing customers gravitate towards pieces that bring warmth, texture and personality into their homes. People are becoming more intentional with their purchases, choosing versatile pieces that can refresh a space without a major renovation. Sustainability also continues to be an important consideration.
What key homeware items would you recommend to cosy up our homes this winter?
Fresh or dried flowers, soft textiles, candles and warm lighting are simple ways to create a cosy atmosphere. A statement vase is one of my favourite styling pieces because it adds colour, texture and interest while bringing nature indoors.
What are the standout trends for winter, and what are your 'must-have' items?
We're seeing a move towards timeless design, natural materials and pieces with character. Organic shapes, artisan-inspired patterns and sustainable products remain popular. A beautifully styled vase with seasonal foliage is my winter must-have because it's an easy way to update a room and create a welcoming feel.
Do you stock any local or New Zealand designers we should know about? What makes them special or unique?
While Gala Studio focuses on our own collection of reusable paper vases, I'm constantly inspired by New Zealand's creative community. One designer whose work I particularly admire is Katie Scott from Sticks + Stones Design. Katie recently helped transform our apartment and has an incredible ability to create spaces that feel both beautiful and deeply personal. Her work balances functionality, warmth and timeless design, and I love the way she creates interiors that feel curated without feeling over-designed.
Complete the following: This winter, I will mostly be...
Embracing slower mornings, styling cosy spaces at home and enjoying long walks along Takapuna Beach.
171 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna
galastudio.nz
