“FASHION REINVENTS ITSELF EVERY SEASON. WE’RE CONSTANTLY LOOKING FOR CHANGE AND THE WAY FORWARD”

How did you make the decision to go into business together?

Madeleine:

There is something in Jess and something in me that just really works. I’ve had it once before when I was living overseas and working with a designer and I said when I left, “You’ll find someone else Emma”, and she said to me, “No, it doesn’t work like that – you just really understand my design language.” And I think for Jess and I, that’s what it was. We also had the same work ethic — we work really hard and towards a common goal. We had both been thinking about [starting a label] and turned to each other late one night and just… well, we didn’t really have to say anything, we both knew what was happening here.

What do you admire in each other? Jessica:

Madeleine’s unbelievably kind and selfless and giving. She may be the nicest person I’ve ever met.

Clockwise from top: The Harman Grubiša boutique on Auckland’s exclusive Jervois Road; the brand’s footwear designs have gained a loyal following; the workroom sits above their Herne Bay flagship store; technology has enriched the business; the pair...