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Wynn Hamlyn’s impending debut at AAFW, actionable winter styling advice, and a “future of connectivity” via fashion

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Wynn Hamlyn’s impending debut at AAFW, actionable winter styling advice, and a “future of connectivity” via fashion

For good reason, Wynn Crawshaw of semi-eponymous label Wynn Hamlyn has been in the Harrolds interview seat numerous times now. And it seems like every catch-up signals a new chapter for the ever-evolving New Zealand label.

If — on the unlikely chance — you’re unfamiliar with Wynn’s work, the hallmarks of his design include immaculate craftsmanship, home-grown fabrication (like buttery merino wool), and idiosyncratic quirks like macramé and skin-baring cut-outs.

Elevated, everyday pieces with unexpected detailing

In 2022, Wynn and partner Lana Crawshaw look ahead to a top-secret debut at Afterpay Australian Fashion Week, a growing wardrobe of ‘arts and crafts’ inspired experimentation, and their biggest triumph yet. What ever could that be? Read on to reveal.

How have the first few months of 2022 been for you and Lana? What have been your major preoccupations with Wynn Hamlyn?

The beginning of the year has been incredibly busy! It commenced with a non-virtual, face-to-face showcase of our new collection in NYC with The Known Agency. It was so rewarding to present our collection in a real space, and to physically meet with our valued stakeholders. The past few months have been dedicated to our forthcoming Resort ’23 collection, and an exciting collaboration. We’re excited about the future!

What broader themes or sensibilities of dressing have you been designing for in 2022 when compared to the last year or so?

We’ve been designing our collections with an optimal outlook that embraces a future of connectivity — a future that provides accessibility, adventure, and unity for our community. Our signature aesthetic is still very much aligned to ‘work of the hand’, innovation, and designing elevated, everyday pieces with unexpected detailing.

Pink Lana Trouser

Pink Lana Trouser

Congratulations on your upcoming feature at AAFW in Sydney. What is Wynn Hamlyn’s involvement and presence at the festival this year?

Thank you! We’re extremely excited to showcase our Resort ‘23 on the official AAFW 2022 schedule. We can’t give away too much information, but the show’s location and production elements are epic.

How important is it to have a physical activation of your label for tastemakers and the broader fashion set in Australia? Why does Wynn Hamlyn need to be immersive, or seen in motion?

Wynn Hamlyn has established a very much loyal and valued presence in Australia during the past two years. It really has become our second home and a place we hold close to our hearts. The support from our stakeholders including consumers and media has been unwavering. Our decision to participate at AAFW felt organic, and it will provide the label with an opportunity to solidify and celebrate its presence within the Australian market.

What is the preparation process for AAFW like? Who are you collaborating with to bring your show to life?

As we are based in New Zealand, the process has been a little challenging, but overall, it has been super-fab – we are so fortunate to be working with the stellar team at The Known Agency and our visionary Stylist – Karla Clarke.

So many of your recent constructions are made of rope-like macramé  — what led you to this design? Can you talk us through the experimentation process?

Yes, I love the transparency of Macramé and admire its aligned heritage to the ‘arts and crafts’ and to the ‘work of the hand’. Our collections often speak to stories that celebrate all manner of making, and the integration of technology — it’s about classic modernity. The Macramé-inspired pieces are statement pieces, but they are also versatile and can move effortlessly from desk to dinner, and day into night.

Outside of work, what’s it been like seeing New Zealand’s borders open? And what are your future travel plans for this year?

A huge relief! It’s been a long time coming. It has been so wonderful to finally welcome friends and family back home from overseas. In terms of our travel plans, expect to see us in Sydney and Melbourne more regularly. We are also excited about exploring opportunities to showcase the label in New York and Paris – the opportunity to mix business with pleasure is always a huge win!

Ivory Loop Tank

Ivory Loop Tank

As we’re approaching the cooler months in Melbourne, how would you recommend the modern woman to layer for casual-cool evening dressing?

Melbourne has a similar climate to NZ, so we believe that we are 100% rehearsed here. Our ribbed knit pieces have been designed to create the ideal, winter-inspired essential. They provide comfort and warmth, but their lightweight composition is suited to layering. Pieces like our Convertible L/S Top and Key Hole Knit L/S Top are hard workers!

And what about playful (but sophisticated) officewear?

Our signature knitwear is the way to go — it’s elevated and playful at the same time. Paired with our Lana Trousers in Hot Pink and our Convertible Blazer, the look is effortlessly polished and commanding, but not intimidating. Playing with colour and texture is always key.

Lastly, what has been your biggest success (personal or work-related) so far this year?

We are welcoming our first child into our world in August. We are over the moon!

Enamoured by Wynn Hamlyn’s wondrous designs? Explore the latest and greatest garments by Wynn Crawshaw at Harrolds, online and in-store.

Discover the collection


Convertible Long Sleeve Top
Wynn Hamlyn

Convertible Long Sleeve Top

$390
Green Bubble Knit Skirt
Wynn Hamlyn

Green Bubble Knit Skirt

$380
Ivory Loop Tank
Wynn Hamlyn

Ivory Loop Tank

$205
Pink Lana Trouser
Wynn Hamlyn

Pink Lana Trouser

$525

Discover the collection


Convertible Long Sleeve Top
Wynn Hamlyn

Convertible Long Sleeve Top

$390
Green Bubble Knit Skirt
Wynn Hamlyn

Green Bubble Knit Skirt

$380
Ivory Loop Tank
Wynn Hamlyn

Ivory Loop Tank

$205
Pink Lana Trouser
Wynn Hamlyn

Pink Lana Trouser

$525

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