Laura-Jean Fitzweijers, founder of Not New
Laura-Jean Fitzweijers is the founder of new luxury fashion resale platform Not New which launched online this month. It was created to extend the life cycle of fashion, with Laura-Jean and her team sourcing garments by renowned designers from international markets to sell online. Each piece is vetted for quality and Not New also accepts designer pieces on consignment from Kiwis looking to sell their international designer garments. Not New was recently launched with a fashion show in Christchurch showcasing the first Autumn/Winter edit that’s now available to shop online.
We caught up with Laura-Jean to find out more about her brand, what inspires her and what you would never catch her wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
Our Autumn/Winter 22 Edit is a collection of some of our favourite seasonal pieces. The edit features jackets, coats and trenches alongside winter warming wools and knits from a range of some of the worlds most coveted designers including Dries Van Noten, Public School, Bob Mackie and Roberto Cavalli. Fun!
What made you become involved in fashion?
My drive to become involved in the industry was from a desire to create a business that could incorporate sustainable values and creativity. When exploring potential markets I saw that fashion luxury resale was growing exponentially abroad whilst remaining fairly under represented in the Kiwi and Australian markets. Fashion can bring so much joy to your day and by buying Not New it allows a degree of pride in knowing that you’re taking a stand against the colossal impact of the fashion industry whilst not compromising on individual style and craft. It brings joy and we love that at Not New.
What inspires you?
Women supporting women in business. I have been so lucky to have had so many women willing to talk with me and share their stories – the ups and the downs. We have had so many amazing women willing to collaborate with us and share their success with us. It is humbling and encouraging which is so necessary in start up as it takes a lot of grit to get a brand out the door!
Looks from Not New’s Autumn/Winter 22 Edit.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your designs?
Being an eclectic soul my style changes with my mood – however, I love good tailoring and quality materials and that is carried through with our choices at Not New. We honour the craftsmanship of good design and feel that this endures a lot longer than any trend does.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
Most definitely my wedding ring as it was crafted with love (and gold from my family’s back yard!).
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
A good woolly jumper. I love wool as its so cosy. Quality wool with also last extremely well with proper care so it can be worn and enjoyed for years to come.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
Does this bring me joy today? If so – I’m in – if not, change it up.
Looks from Not New’s Autumn/Winter 22 Edit.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Sitting down with Lucy Bennetto from Bennetto Chocolates for one of our ‘Ask & Aperitif’ editorial interviews. Each month we interview a lady to talk about her focus, fashion and business. Lucy has had such an interesting journey with Bennetto Chocolates and she was gracious in sharing her insights and ambitions.
What can’t you live without?
Haha, soooo many things. My family and mad friends, the mountains, mascara, chocolate and cheese.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
The wrong sized pair of heels as it just hurts.
Images supplied.