Step into spring

Christchurch bursts into colour in spring. Blossom explodes from the trees and verdant greens replace the muted tones of winter. What is true for nature is true for our wardrobes as well, and the season sure looks bright judging from the hues on show at New Zealand Fashion Week and in the lookbooks of our favourite designers. We report on the catwalk trends that are coming to a boutique or department store near you, and lift the lid on what goes into making Ballantynes Fashion Week the primo event it is. Ever dreamt of shopping for a living? We talk to someone who does just that – Ballantynes fashion buyer Georgina Mears. And we find out how Kate Sylvester keeps ahead of the curve both in work and in life. Continuing our series on Christchurch after dark, we explore the city’s comedy scene and tell you where you can get your giggle on. We also look at what’s happening during the day as the city’s centre comes to life with office workers. These new workspaces aren’t the same as the ones the city used to have, with flexibility and collaboration now central to everything from furniture design to business philosophy. Speaking of work, retirement can be fun if you’ve put some good plans in place. We find out what is on offer and where to turn for advice, whether for yourself or older family members. And as always, we bring you what’s hot in cuisine, events, home and couture.