Nestled down Ghuznee Street in the thriving creative heart of Wellington’s Cuba Quarter you’ll find CAUGHLEY - an ever-changing hub of independent high-quality fashion, timeless accessories, exceptional shoes and sought-after jewellery. Founded in 2015 by Rachael Caughley, the store is home to carefully selected pieces from coveted international brands and New Zealand designers.
Tell us about your beautiful store - how did you start and what's been exciting about the journey thus far?
CAUGHLEY is a little double storied black building on Ghuznee St, in Wellington. We stock our favourite NZ and international designers. I started it in October 2015 with a huge opening party and we have evolved with the times since then. It’s such an exciting industry to be in, always something new and different. I love retail, I love our customers and suppliers. We have a really good time making women feel great, and providing exceptional service be that online or in store.
What would you say your aesthetic of your store is - who are the ladies you’re dressing?
We are dressing empowered , interesting woman. Real woman. The ones that want to dress up and party all night, go to the office, drop the children at school. Our clothes are for everyday life, but done in a chic and stylish way.
How would you describe your own personal style? What is the key to a successful outfit?
Elevated basics. I’m a massive jeans and a jersey, jeans and t-shirt girl. I love a good blazer. A sneaker. I also like a little bit of fun, something a bit different. The key to a good outfit is being comfortable. You know when a woman is feeling good in herself and her outfit. She glows. I also love juxtaposition in an outfit. Sneakers with a blazer. Pearls with jeans. Heels with a t-shirt. You never want to look too predictable.
Which piece are you coveting from Laing's new winter collection?
For me the Quentin Merino Polo in black is a covetable piece. They are sexy and understated at the same time. I also love the Jasper Cashmere T-shirt in the crew in black, and the oversized Nico Sweater in Cappuccino
How will you be wearing/styling this piece as we head into spring? What will you be wearing it with?
I’ll be wearing the polo with a baggy pair of jeans. It’s fitted and chic so I want to wear it with some baggy or 90s “skater” jeans as my husband would call them. I love that juxtaposition. I’ll then throw on an oversized blazer. Can’t beat a polo under a blazer. With the Nico jersey I’ll just throw it on with a jean or even good black loose pants and probably sneakers or black boots.
What do you admire most about Laing as a brand?
Its ease. It takes you many places!!! Cocktail parties, the office, everyday casual. It’s things you just want to wear again and again and don’t have to think too hard about it.
Rachael wears the Nico Merino Sweater and the Jasper Cashmere Crew - Black