emma

www.emmacollections.com
facebook.com/emma
Physical Address:  476 Adelaide Road, Berhampore, Wellington
Operating Since:  2006

What are you all about?  
What kind of clothes do you make?

emma is my label and I'm Emma Wallace, the designer/director.  From my workroom/boutique in Wellington, I design, co-ordinate production, wholesale, retail and run the business side for all emma clothing and accessories.

We have a small dedicated team that create seasonal ranges to meet the demands of busy, creative NZ women for fashionable, well-made, sustainable clothing with a dash of whimsy and vintage detailing.

Who makes your clothes?

Having trained in Fashion Design and Technology, I really enjoy being hands-on creating patterns and samples.  We also work with a select and wonderful number of talented local contractors who are skilled in pattern-making, cutting and construction.  Thank goodness they are here!

Who sells your clothes?  Can we buy them online?

We do!  emma is available at our Wellington boutique.  We also wholesale to some lovely NZ retailers.  You can buy emma online at Foxes.

What price range are your clothes in?

We create new styles every season that range from merino wool tops, silk dresses to tailored winter coats so individual prices vary; but we like to keep them in a mid-price range.  Prices start from around $80.

Why do you think NZ clothing labels outsource their manufacturing overseas?

I imagine it's primarily for business reasons such as volume requirements and price; also skills  and technical levels which may only be found overseas.  Our local manufacturing base has been eroded over the years so we really need to support the businesses that remain.  They pay fair wages, provide good work environments; and I really like that they are 'just around the corner'.

What could the Government do to help clothing labels keep it in NZ?

Be smarter with their Buy NZ Made campaign - get to the grassroots, highlight & support new labels, publicise what's happening in local communities, target social networks and, most importantly, promote our uniqueness.  Remind Kiwis of what we have, what they value about it, and empower them to make a difference to our future by their buying choices.

Anything to add?

Thank you to everyone who supports NZ-made clothing - you are all stars!