Goodness on College Street

College Street is turning in to a dangerous area for us shoppers. I mean, you’re heading to the newly swanked up Moore Wilson’s Fresh to pick up some veges, when you by pass through to Magnolia on the corner, Miss Wong, Madder & Rouge and now the latest addition to the new designer quarter in Wellington, Goodness. Before you know it, your credit card bill is looking a bit worse for wear…

Goodness opened last week with a busy night of bubbles though a straw and nibbles amongst the clothing racks, with all the Petone flagship store fans out in force. This is the second store for Chris Hale, but far more convenient for those of us who can’t get to Petone so easily. Although the city store is far more minimal than its older sister, the labels are all the same.

The house label, Hale Van Traa, is a stand out for me. Designed by Chris and stylist Justine Van Traa, it typifies all that I loved about the pieces in stock – rich colours, a brilliant mix of texture and an understanding that clothes can still be fun without looking silly. Very Wellington, I must say – good thing they’ve come city side! The woollen blazers are on my “to buy” list, as is the grown up ra-ra skirt in green and white. Details and patterns are a huge part of the collection and the sizes and cuts look generous for all women.

The beauty of local boutique clothing stores, and all the stores on College Street, is that you can tell that each piece of clothing has been handpicked and set out in the shop with care and attention. In  Goodness, almost all Australian and New Zealand brands, Sabatini’s winter knitwear looked a winner, as well as the more casual styles from Oyl. Although when I say casual, don’t expect trackies. This store is all about the stylish. The accessories are just so, with Olga Berg clutches and some stunning hats for winter.

What makes Goodness even more dangerous is their ‘wear while you buy’ initiative. You see, they aren’t the cheapest clothes in town but with this scheme you can pay 50% up front and take the item of clothing with you, then 25% each month for the next two months to pay it off, while reaping the benefits of such a beautiful piece of clothing. Uh oh. I feel a hire purchase on one of those blazers coming on…

College Street is definitely the neighbourhood to go to, and the new Goodness shop certainly ups the retail sass. The credit card danger levels just off Tory Street are rising by the second.

Check out Chris’ Goodness blog here.