Auckland label Wynn Hamlyn is combining functionality with eccentricity
Photography by
Words by Gabrielle O’Hagan
“It’s much better to work concisely – to perfect a few ideas, define your signature and stay true to your label.”
In an industry brimming with creativity, innovative ideas and endless talent, it can be difficult to make your mark on the fashion landscape. But Wynn Crawshaw, the founder and director of New Zealand-based label Wynn Hamlyn, has managed to forge a distinct place for himself in the world of design.
He has created a brand of refined, functional womenswear, but with a twist – each piece is infused with something vibrant, anomalous and a little bit eccentric. The label combines boldness with minimalism, producing ready-to-wear dresses, blazers and knitwear that are fit for any mood or occasion.
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Like his designs, Wynn’s entry into the fashion industry was anything but traditional. After beginning his career in land surveying, Wynn found himself in search of a creative outlet. But he knew the only way his creativity would flourish was if he cultivated his skills in a practical, hands-on environment. And so the label was conceived in a small Auckland studio, where Wynn experimented with different colour palettes and materials.
Perhaps this is what has allowed Wynn to stand out from other designers and create such a unique aesthetic. The garments are eccentric and experimental, and yet they still emanate the timelessness of classic womenswear. Wynn’s attention to the shapes, silhouettes and minute details of each piece is his way of celebrating the elegance of the female form.
Tell us about you. What’s your fashion background?
My entry into the world of fashion wasn’t traditional. I studied land surveying at university [and] gained employment, but after a few years, decided that I was restless and needed more of a creative outlet.
I decided to enrol in a part-time fashion design course but it didn’t last long, as I realised that I was craving ‘hands-on’ practical experience. The drawn-out theoretical approach that involved extensive critiques didn’t interest me. I really wanted to immerse myself in creative ideation and construction.
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How did the label get started? Talk us through the process and the challenges.
I secured a small studio, got creative, and started to design garments. Then out of nowhere, almost a year into my new venture, I accidentally sold my first collection! A friend of a friend who worked at a boutique in Auckland told me that the owner was interested in seeing my range. I visited the boutique with a garment bag and they bought it.
The challenges since then have been wide and varied. In essence, with the label’s growth, we are always striving to stay true to our DNA and to continuously work towards more sustainable practices.
What were you trying to achieve from the project at the time? How has this evolved and what are you trying to communicate through the brand now?
Wynn Hamlyn is predominantly a ready-to-wear women’s label. Our collections are underpinned by craft and innovation. We have a big focus on technical knitwear, and we love collaborating.
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How would you describe Wynn Hamlyn to someone who’s never seen it before?
The Wynn Hamlyn aesthetic is minimalistic and timeless, but it’s also unexpectedly playful and vibrant. Collection after collection, we are forever focused on combining functional practicality with an eccentric vibe. Our signature technical knitwear provides the perfect canvas for innovation and experimentation.
What are you most proud of in your work on your label?
I’m proud of our dedicated, passionate team. To work with people that I admire and [who] inspire me is such a bonus.
What do you wish you knew when you started?
That you don’t have to create the world’s biggest collections. It’s much better to work concisely – to perfect a few ideas, define your signature and stay true to your label. As the saying goes, ‘quality over quantity’!
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Who do you think is most exciting in Australian/New Zealand fashion right now?
There’s a new generation of exciting designers emerging from NZ. Taylor Groves, Emma Jing, Wilbur Hsu, Heather Brennan Evens, Nicole Van Vurren and Gala Richards. They are all amazing and fearless.
Dream Australian collaborators?
One in mind… stay tuned!
Go-to dinner party playlist?
Frank Ocean’s Spotify playlist Blonded.
Who is in your wardrobe right now?
Birkenstock Super Birki Chef Clogs.
How can we buy one of your pieces?
Wynn Hamlyn collections can be purchased online here or at our flagship store in Commercial Bay. You can also purchase Wynn Hamlyn via our valued stockists in NZ, Australia, and internationally.
To browse the latest collection from Wynn Hamlyn, head here.
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