EDITOR’S LETTER
An insight into this issue
January 21 saw the largest single-day demonstration in US history: the Women’s March, a movement that became worldwide in response to newly inaugurated President Donald Trump’s proposed legislation and policies regarding human rights, immigration and healthcare reform. In disheartening times, it has been empowering to see woman around the globe unified in their desire for equality for all. Steadfast among the protesters were several of the fashion set’s foremost figures, many speaking out in protest and using their personal and brand followings to spread the profeminist message. Also inspiring: more than US $100,000 was raised for Planned Parenthood thanks to sales of the now iconic “Nasty Woman” tee.
At FQ, we like to celebrate women and femininity in all that we do, so this issue we took the opportunity to really embrace our feminist side and join the movement. In Feminist Fashion (page 44) , we talk to the New Zealand garment industry’s key players about their personal views on fashion’s synergy with politics and feminism, their female muses and more. Cover star and international model Emily Baker (page 38) shares her journey from Matamata teen to Milan superstar; New Zealand-born, UK-based jeweller Jessica McCormack describes her devotion to her craft and love of vintage diamonds (page 108); and we speak to several of our favourite women who exude both style and substance and never fail to motivate us and I’m sure you.
Turning to career matters, we ask: Is the specialist a dying concept, or does the future belong to the workplace jack of all trades? Stylist/photographer/publisher Greta van der Star, pilot/writer/interior designer/boutique owner LeeAnn Yare and actor/ photographer/director/writer Florence Noble give us the inside track on their own portfolio careers in The Slashie Revolution (page 115).
In our Style section, we put some of our favourite feminists on pedestals, including author Joan Didion, poet Cleo Wade, staunchly pro-women actress Marlene Dietrich and singer Lady Gaga. In Beauty, Bronwyn Williams reveals why you might want to keep your hands off your pores, and we chat with the nose behind Karen Walker’s own strong female character, Runaway Girl, who now boasts her own scent. We update you on what to do when it comes to looking your best for longer, with a guide to all the latest serums, essences and cosmetics, and reveal which age you should be adding them to your skincare routine for optimum results.
But if you need a break from the pursuit of female world domination, turn to Phoebe Watt’s round-up of some of the best of weekend getaways (page 160). They’re the ideal destinations for a gathering of best girlfriends in need of some rest or revelling. Enjoy the issue — I hope you find it inspiring.
“What would happen if instead of asking, ‘How do I look?’ we asked, ‘What will I do today?’”
– Twenty-seven Names.