MUSE BLOG

my muse
My MUSE | Anna Thomson

Originally from Dunedin, Anna is a super mum of four boys, and anyone who’s had the pleasure of meeting her can attest to the fact that she’s nothing short of a force of nature. Despite the daily chaos of raising young children, Anna manages to juggle it all with a warm, calm presence that makes it all seem effortless.

While being a stay-at-home mum is Anna’s primary role, it’s clear that she’s a woman who loves life and keeps it simple, especially when it comes to her wardrobe. With a natural love for fashion, she knows how to mix comfort and style, always looking chic yet effortless. As much as she enjoys clothes and fashion, she is also practical and has mastered the art of pared-back dressing, which is just perfect for her busy life at home.

All articles

my muse

My MUSE | Anna Thomson
Originally from Dunedin, Anna is a super mum of four boys, and anyone who’s had the pleasure of meeting her can attest to the fact that she’s nothing short of a force of nature. Despite the daily chaos of raising young children, Anna manages to juggle it all with a warm, calm presence that makes it all seem effortless.

While being a stay-at-home mum is Anna’s primary role, it’s clear that she’s a woman who loves life and keeps it simple, especially when it comes to her wardrobe. With a natural love for fashion, she knows how to mix comfort and style, always looking chic yet effortless. As much as she enjoys clothes and fashion, she is also practical and has mastered the art of pared-back dressing, which is just perfect for her busy life at home.

my muse

My MUSE | Lauren Boden
After spending a decade immersed in the luxury fashion and watch industries across London, Paris, and New York, Lauren decided to return home to New Zealand to raise her two children. It was during this transition that she realised there was a gap in the market for luxury jewellery from international brands. And so, Lulu’s Collective was born—a curated online store that brings together the best of the best from around the globe.

With an eye for exceptional craftsmanship and pieces that carry distinct character, Lauren has carefully curated collections that speak to a discerning buyer. Each piece must tick all the right boxes: refined yet playful, sophisticated with a touch of whimsy, and always, always wearable.

my muse

My MUSE | Rachel Sloane

After meeting her partner, Alex Bunnett, Rachel co-founded the incredible jewellery brand Naveya & Sloane in 2010. Since then, the business has blossomed into a hugely successful jewellery house, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and artistry. Their design philosophy is a blend of old and new, with "a pinch of playfulness." A romantic at heart, Rachel combines her laser-sharp focus and work ethic with boundless creativity to craft pieces destined to be cherished for generations. More than just a business model, Rachel deeply believes in her work and remains true to her vision.

my muse

My MUSE | Janet Milne

Janet is a leading figure in neuropsychology, renowned for her dedication to helping patients manage and overcome cognitive impairments. Her commitment to her field is matched only by her passion for making a positive impact in others’ lives. When she’s not busy making strides in her professional life, Janet, a former competitive swimmer turned fitness enthusiast, focuses on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She enjoys hitting the gym and cherishes time spent with her family and gorgeous dog, Teddy, who is a beloved presence at our MUSE Ponsonby store.

my muse

My MUSE | Leola King

If you haven’t been to Candela yet (our favourite Spanish restaurant, nestled on Auckland’s vibrant K’ Road) then trust me – it’s an absolute must. Founded, owned and operated by Leola and her fiancé Matt, Candela is a perfect combination of flavour and warmth, creativity and style. Similar, in fact, to our gorgeous muse herself!

Driven and passionate, Leola is a queen in the Auckland hospitality scene. Using her down to earth nature and sharp laser focus, her years of experience and dedication to her customers, Leola has worked tirelessly to create and elevate Candela, providing an atmosphere and experience that truly is second to none. Confident and classic with a touch of contemporary, Leola – and everything she touches – is pure class. We are proud to have her as a part of our MUSE community, and can’t wait to continue dining with her in exquisitely cosy style.

my muse

My MUSE | Dr. Amelia Ryan
As a highly sought after Women’s Health specialist, a co-owner of a private gynaecology practice and a loving mum-of-three, Amelia brings a whole new meaning to the word busy. Following years of study, training and delivering babies, Amelia now channels her skills towards alleviating the pain and suffering caused by endometriosis – a condition that affects so many. When she’s not out there changing women’s lives, Amelia adores spending quality time with her husband and their three beautiful children.

my muse

My MUSE | Jessica Durling
A long-time friend of MUSE (and of mine), Jess is everything you could want in a muse. A lover of art, storytelling and beautiful interiors, she feels most at home surrounded by creativity. She’s passionate and engaging, with a penchant for DIY. Determined and ambitious, with an inherent appreciation for beauty. Easy-going and inspiring, with a modern, understated style.

my muse

My MUSE | Chloe Zara
When it comes to sustainable haircare, Chloe is queen, redefining the way we treat our locks one luxurious product at a time. An undisputed expert, Chloe has been creating magic with the manes of Auckland for two decades – and in 2020, after noticing a gap in the market for sustainable and effective products, she founded her iconic eponymous haircare range, Chloe Zara Hair, and people can’t get enough.

my muse

My MUSE | Michele Halliday-Szczepanski

An integral part of team MUSE, Michele has worked with us for three glorious years as our general manager and, more recently, our highly respected buyer. Having worked in the fashion industry for more than 20 years, Michele is a boss when it comes to all things style and has an exceptional eye for what’s next. 

my muse

My MUSE | Zeenat Wilkinson

When it comes to incredible achievements, Zeenat really and truly takes the (delicious, saucy) cake.She’s studied at London’s Central Saint Martin, worked as a fashion stylist and editor in both London and Mumbai (for iconic titles that include Grazia India, Vogue India, Nylon US, Remix and Fashion Quarterly), relocated her life to New Zealand, founded and launched the revered digital platform SAUCE.

my muse

My MUSE | Stella Tetro

For anyone who doesn’t recognise her, Stella is a much-loved member of our very own team MUSE. Located in our Ponsonby Boutique (since the day we opened our doors in 2017), Stella works her magic as one of our incredible in-store stylists – putting her impeccable taste, exceptional eye and innate sense of style to good use.   

my muse

My MUSE | Petra Galler

my muse

My MUSE | Komal Nash