Among the concise collection there are well-tailored separates that blend masculine and feminine elements, like crisp shirts, pleated trousers and a waistcoat vest. Then there are the standouts, like a trench coat and a teal blazer each that come with a sweeping, detachable scarf that scoops around one shoulder.
The idea is that the simple and chic pieces – or sartorial essentials as they are referred to – offer solutions for people who want to dial down the decision fatigue in an increasingly busy life, but also hold on to the mood boost that comes when you know you look great and feel put-together.
“When a garment ticks all the boxes for the buyer, it has the ability to uplift and encourage,” affirms Cashmore, who studied fashion before working for fellow Kiwi designer Maggie Marilyn for four years.
“For me, making the effort with dressing can be hard some days. The idea is that my clothing does the heavy lifting for you.”
She says the pieces that make up the collection have multiple facets to them.
“Initially they might appear dressy or formal but that’s the answer for me. When I don’t know what to wear, I want to reach for those pieces that I know work and will take me throughout my day.
“When designing I think about key pieces the customer might already have and how my garments might slot into their wardrobe.”
Far from fast fashion, Cashmore originally started doing made-to-order using high-end fabrications and meticulous construction, but now has both a well-stocked online store and a Newmarket boutique and workroom. Her range is also stocked at Simon James.
Enduring style
The young designer says she understands the need for newness in the fashion industry, but tries not to feel pressured by it, hence the name of the new collection. Her designs are intended to endure well beyond a single season.
“It’s hard to avoid the sense of ‘trying to keep up’ because of course you need stock to sell but I was cautious of rushing styles through just for the sake of it,” she explains.
“This collection feels like such a homecoming for me, in the sense that OC has a clear design direction. I decided to take my time to ensure it is of quality and worth, not just to me but for the customer.”
Cashmore says the collection is a reflection of her own personal style, but also reaffirms her design signature. After two years in business and regular connection with her customers through her retail space, she is more confident than ever about what she offers.
“My pant styles are very popular and will be an OC staple in future collections,” she points out. “The Tuxedo Vest and Darcy Skirt are examples of my intention to take a classic silhouette but add a twist.”
Parachutes play into the design direction of the range, after she stumbled upon some images in an art exhibition.
“They were light, whimsical and delicate, but enabled a person to fly,” she remembers. “That inspired me to use sheer fabrics paired with strong tailored silhouettes. To my mind, reflecting the contrast between the lightness of a parachute yet it’s ability to hold a person. Delicate yet strong.”
Neutral fabrications are in abundance and the Kiwi that loves a black outfit is well catered for, but Cashmore also includes a distinctive colour statement in each range. This season it’s a fresh teal hue.
“Colour often comes first [in the design process] as I am drawn to specific tones that feel like a nice pop. I love wearing colour but I am cautious as I want to ensure every collection can pare back with the previous one as well as future pieces. Black is always easy to do but using neutrals makes things feel a bit lighter for me as well as still being easy to wear and style.”
Cashmore says she is looking forward to wearing her strapless black Willimena Dress to a friend’s upcoming wedding and getting lots of wear out of her crisp shirts as the warmer weather rolls in.
“Cotton is such an easy fabric to wear and care for, thrown over dresses and even togs,” she says.
