The Wardrobe of Wellington: 17 Fashion Stores in Te Ngākau Civic Precinct

This family-owned and operated store has been suiting up the men of Wellington since 1984. While they may have started off in a basement, Man to Man shifted to higher ground and became one of the first retailers to open along Willis Street before finally moving to their current Victoria Street location. On the ground floor, you’ll find a selection of smart casual wear with an elevator leading up to the swish suit lounge.

The kind of clothing designed to make you feel really good about yourself, Wilson Trollope is home to bold garments in a kaleidoscope of playful colours and patterns. Founder Annabelle Wilson opened the Victoria Street store in 2017 after trialling a series of pop-ups in both Wellington and Auckland. Each collection is crafted with creativity, consideration and a conscious approach. 

Sharing a joint workroom on Wakefield Street, JPalm and Cold Wave get along well with their mutual dedication to the slow fashion movement. Julia Palmer, the designer and maker behind JPalm, meticulously crafts each piece with a contemporary, punky and workwear aesthetic weaved into the final product. On a nearby sewing machine, Cold Wave’s Ted Whitaker uses specialty smooth-skin neoprene to offer a small-scale wetsuit alternative to the surf community. Book in a studio visit to meet with the designers and try on a selection of stock.

This second-hand designer store proves that you can have your cake and eat it, offering beautiful pre-loved pieces that are kinder on both your wallet and the planet. Founded by Sue Allen in 2014, Honour is a consignment store that carefully curates a high-end selection of quality clothing made to last in a long line of wardrobes. There’s something for every taste and size, with appearances from Trelise Cooper, Karen Walker, Kowtow and more. The cherry on top? Items that don't sell can be donated to Dress for Success in Wellington.

If you’re wandering Bond Street, it’s hard to turn away from the yellow smiley face inviting you in from the window of Good as Gold. Since 2004, this independent multi-brand boutique has provided a relaxed and friendly place to shop a unique range of local and international streetwear and fashion brands. Despite their mega popularity, Good as Gold have stuck to Wellington soil – and you have to respect that.

While technically not the only Yu Mei Lounge in the country (the other being in Auckland’s Newmarket), Victoria Street is home to the original concept store. And seeing as the brand has exploded onto the international scene, we think that’s pretty special. Located in the historical Mibar building, the space is warm and welcoming with a drinks fridge keeping you well hydrated while you browse the most delicious leather goods.

For the cool kids who like their outfits with an extra serving of edge, Stolen Girlfriends Club first became famous for their rebellious yet romantic jewellery range. These days, their collection extends to include well-made clothing and accessories which you can shop in their playful (and very shiny) space on Victoria Street. Miley Cyrus, The Weeknd and Rita Ora are just a few big names that have been spotted showing off their Stolen goods.

This New Zealand label may have been around for over 20 years, but they’ve remained current in local wardrobes everywhere. While the designs are clean and contemporary, the strong tailoring and subtle use of eclectic fabrics keeps things interesting. Gregory’s boutique in Te Ngākaua is elegant and calming with a flawless display of their latest collection. 

This brand has a serious crush on Aotearoa, and we’re here for it. Since the beginning, KILT has proudly crafted every item of clothing on New Zealand shores in their Napier Design Room – keeping the local sewing industry alive and ensuring the highest quality of the garments and working conditions. KILT implements a range of sustainable and ethical initiatives from the factory to shop floor, such as repurposing fabric off-cuts, using home-compostable bags for online orders and prioritising zero-waste alternatives. Plus, every piece of clothing is super cute and chic. It’s a win-win.

Name a cooler New Zealand streetwear brand… We’ll wait. I Love Ugly started in the sketchbooks of founder and Creative Director Valenin Ozich in 2008 and quickly grew into the internationally recognised brand it is today. Loved for its sophisticated and simple styles, with a focus on quality and durability, it’s no wonder even A$AP Rocky and Justin Bieber have a piece of I Love Ugly in their wardrobe.

Want to make a statement? We know just the place. Started in 1989, WORLD has been empowering locals to lean into their extravagant side for quite some time now – and the novelty hasn’t worn off. As well as hand-crafting fashion collections with a haute-couture aesthetic, you’ll find a range of high-end perfumes, candles, and eccentric objects for your home.

Dressing in style is an effortless task with Repertoire around. The locally-owned and operated fashion label transcends seasons and trends with their collection of timeless styles made to go the distance in your wardrobe. We love how Repertoire reinvents classic looks, adding in interesting cuts and details to promote a sense of individuality.

Welcome to the home of Māori fashion. Creative Director Adrienne Whitewood opened the first ahu Boutique in Rotorua in 2013 before expanding to Wellington. Sewing since the age of 8, Adrienne takes inspiration from Māori art and design to create high-end contemporary designs. Traditional prints and patterns are weaved into garments, where each piece tells a unique story and connects its wearer back to Māori culture.

A dreamy oasis on Victoria Street, Lonely invites women of all sizes to explore a beautiful selection of world-famous lingerie, swimwear, clothing and self-care products. The store offers private and professional fittings to help you feel your best self.

There’s plenty of oohing and aahing coming from 108 Victoria Street. And honestly, who can be blamed when Superette fills their shop with only the most desirable things. From Anine Bing to Bassike to Carhartt, find all the most-wanted fashion and lifestyle products from local and international brands.

As the fashion playground of one of the country’s most-loved designers, you know you’re going to have a good time here. Playpark presents a fun edit of Karen’s favourite brands, blending cult classics with rare finds. From limited-edition releases to exclusive streetwear and everyday classics, expect cool, joyful and luxurious apparel.