Photographer - 'Nick Servian'


Robyn Mathieson has been established in the fashion industry for 16 years, and is a prominent name, and brand, within New Zealand fashion. From her beginnings in the early nineties with a small store called River, Robyn has since re-branded to established two successful stores in Auckland and Wellington, and gained a loyal following along the way.

Quality well cut apparel, superior fabrics and uncomplicated design all contribute to the success of the Robyn Mathieson label. A great deal of care is taken to ensure that nothing but the best ends up on her racks. It is not uncommon to hear of clients even now still wearing a Robyn Mathieson garment purchased several years ago.

Participating in all aspects of her brand, Robyn works her way from design to pattern making, to regular shifts as sales assistant in her Wellington store. She believes that 'being aware of your customers and their needs' is the key to making a successful brand.

In the past Robyn has wholesaled in over 20 stores throughout Australaisa, but these days dedicates herself to the New Zealand market, focusing on what works for New Zealand women and our unpredictable climate. Working from her Wellington workroom, Robyn and her talented team can proudly say that each and every garment is made with love, right here in New Zealand. To Robyn, the New Zealand fashion industry is inspiring: 'Fashionistas here work well together. We can relate to one another and are able to put competition in a healthy place in order to be able to create a successful although small working industry'.

With ever-persistent passion for the fashion industry, Robyn will continue to feed and nurture her brand. 'The Robyn Mathieson label will continue to grow and change in line with my own growth and change, making sure that the growth reflects my own abilities and interests.'

The new Robyn Mathieson collection for summer has been receiving great applause. John Berendt's book, 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil', set Robyn's creative mind whirling and so came about her summer 06/07 collection.

'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil', conjures up ideas dark and atmospheric, perhaps even slightly gothic. This is all evident throughout the collection, with a predominate use of deep, sombre colours and dark floral prints. Conversely, just like the colours of nature, splashes of brilliant reds, blues and greens keep the eye bedazzled. Silk bias cut dresses, billowy metal skirts, merino and silk puff sleeve cardigans, the list of gorgeous garments just goes on and on.... Be reassured, favourites, including the famous (or infamous!) 'Print a-line skirt', are all back again in this collection.

To view more on Robyn Mathieson and her collections past and present, head to her official website www.robynmathieson.co.nz