The Viva Guest Edit: NZFW – Sarah Stuart Takes Over Viva On Day Two

The Viva Guest Edit: NZFW, presented by Zeekr, hands over the reins to industry insiders who are taking over Viva this week. They’ll be sharing their thoughts, experiences and opinions as they take part in the biggest week in NZ fashion. First up, we welcome Sarah Stuart to the Guest She talked to Viva’s Ashleigh Cometti from Shed 10 after NZFW’s Tuesday opening show, Caitlin Crisp.Stylist Sarah StuartAshleigh Cometti: New Zealand Fashion Week Kahuria is now in its 25th year and you’ve had the pleasure of seeing it evolve across many of those years. How does the energy of this year’s festivities feel different to years prior?Sarah Stuart: This year has a very positive vibe. It’s very exciting. I wasn’t here last year because I was having a baby. So you can only imagine how excited I am to be back. I’ve been coming to Fashion Week since it was held in tents and when Pamela Anderson was one of the front-rowers. But I’ve seen it evolve over time. I think the difference now is it’s super collaborative and also engaging with the public, and now you have full access to whatever’s showing. It’s not necessarily seasons ahead like it used to be and now it’s more relatable and accessible to the audience.Pamela Anderson at the end of the A Muse collection by Richie Rich and Pamela in 2009. Photo / NZPA, Wayne DroughtAC: What’s your favourite Fashion Week memory?SS: One of mine was being asked to be a Fashion Week ambassador. I was one for three years, and it was a full-circle moment for me, as my first Fashion Week experience was as a volunteer when I was at university. So it was great to come around in a whole different viewpoint as a stylist, but also being able to promote and collaborate and champion our New Zealand talent and designers.AC: This year’s schedule is jam-packed. Which shows are you most excited to see?SS: The Studio because there are so many crowd favourites in it. We’ve got Harris Tapper, we’ve got Rebe, there’s Fringes, there’s also Ovna, and more. I’m excited about menswear label Beach Brains as well. It’s one of my favourite brands. And then also, obviously, the veterans – Zambesi and taylor. Then the Graduate Show, which I will never miss because it’s up-and-coming designers, who I then use for red carpets and all the editorial work I do. It’s nice to see who is up and coming.Zambesi's 2025 NZFW show at Shed 10. Photo / RadLabAC: How long have you been planning your New Zealand Fashion Week outfits for? Is there an ensemble you are really excited to wear this week?SS: If I am honest, I was putting my outfits together on Sunday evening. I had done a little bit of work beforehand. I just want to make sure I am representing New Zealand brands. I have also got a couple of international brands in there. That’s the fun thing about Fashion Week – I will probably have a couple of changes each day and many personalities throughout the week.AC: Do you carry an emergency styling kit? And if so, what’s inside?SS: I’ve got a charger, I’ve got chewing gum, I’ve got water – I’ve got to stay hydrated – Charlotte Tilbury spray, I’ve got my Murad sunscreen. I’m prepared; I’ve got all of the things. Plasters, as well. A lot of people will be wearing those beautiful shoes that have just been waiting for their moment for Fashion Week.AC: Where is your favourite place to pick up a coffee before the Fashion Week shows?SS: Daily Bread for a coconut flat white. Or, if you’re wanting to eat, I’d say all of the As, like Alma and Ahi.Ahi's Queen pāua crumpet with fermented peanut butter, smoked dulse and celery leaf mayonnaise. Photo / Tez MercerAC: Favourite way to unwind after a long day at Fashion Week?SS: A warm shower, LED mask, having cuddles with my baby and having a chat with my partner. A debrief and also uploading photos.AC: What’s your favourite beauty item to bring to a fashion show?SS: Lip liner and a pencil sharpener. But also, I think my Charlotte Tilbury setting spray, to keep hydrated.AC: What’s your favourite accessory to elevate any outfit?SS: Just accessories in general. There’s not enough of it. We need the hats, we need the scarves. And also cute bags. More is always more.AC: Who are your favourite fashion content creators?SS: Locally, I really like Ariane. Her stuff is fantastic. She’s a clever content creator, very graphic, and also a maximalist, but a girl from my own heart. And then also, I think internationally, I really, really like Malou Borges, who’s a Brazilian content creator, and she is all fashion.The Viva Guest Edit: NZFW, presented by Zeekr, continues throughout Fashion Week, with model Alex Cater, makeup artist Liz Hyun and photographer Guy Coombes.More on New Zealand Fashion Week Kahuria