My MUSE | Lauren Boden

Hello everyone,

Michele here, introducing you to this week’s MyMUSE: the ever-charismatic, endlessly creative, and effortlessly stylish 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.

When she’s not busy running her business, you’ll find Lauren enjoying time with her two gorgeous kids, a role she cherishes deeply. She’s known and loved by the Muse team for her warm, authentic energy, and of course, her impeccable style. A true Tibi fan at heart, Lauren has mastered the art of casual dressing while still looking polished and effortlessly chic.

I sat down with Lauren to chat about Lulu's Collective, her approach to blending style with comfort, and how she defines her personal sense of fashion.

  

 

 

You founded your online jewellery store, Lulu's, in 2022, but before that, you were living and working in the industry overseas. Can you share a bit about your journey leading up to starting your own business?

My journey to founding Lulu's started long before I launched the store in 2022. For 10 years, I worked in the luxury fashion and watch industry overseas, which exposed me to the highest standards of craftsmanship, design, and client service. The experience of working with high-end products and connecting clients with unique, meaningful pieces was deeply inspiring. Over time, I realised my true passion lay in creating something of my own, combining my love for luxury and jewellery in a way that felt personal and unique. Lulu's was born from this desire to offer carefully curated jewellery, blending timeless elegance with a modern edge. It’s been an exciting journey, and I’m thrilled to share this vision with clients every day

 

You’ve built a brand that blends sophistication with fun. How would you describe the "Lulu’s woman" — the person you envision wearing your jewellery?

The “Lulu’s woman” is someone who values timeless elegance but also has a playful side, a sense of curiosity, and an appreciation for artful details. Whether she’s dressing up for an important occasion or adding a bit of sparkle to her everyday style, she seeks pieces that feel personal and unique to her. This woman is both classic and a bit daring, never afraid to express her personality through her jewellery. In essence, the Lulu’s woman appreciates jewellery that’s luxurious, thoughtful, and just a little bit whimsical—pieces that tell a story and reflect her individuality.

 

 

What is your personal approach to style? Do you have a signature look or key pieces that you always gravitate towards?

In my 40s, I've really begun to understand my personal style, and it's a journey that’s still evolving. For a long time, I focused on clothing that seemed “right” or conventionally flattering, aiming to look a certain way. Now, my style choices are increasingly about embracing how I feel in what I wear, allowing fashion to be an extension of my personality and mood, rather than a means to look thinner or fit a mold. Tibi’s modern, chill, and classic aesthetic resonates with me—it feels effortlessly sophisticated yet fun. Their pieces are my go-to, and I love layering in statement jewellery to add a hint of whimsy and personality.

 

Can you share a recent fashion purchase of yours that you’re particularly excited about? What made it stand out to you?

I’m particularly thrilled about the Tibi 4-Ply Silk T-Shirt Dress I recently pre-ordered from Muse—in a striking red-orange colourway. It has this fantastic blend of casual and elevated style, which I love. One of the standout details? Pockets! I’m always a fan of pockets, especially on pieces like this because they bring a laid-back vibe to something that could easily lean dressy. This dress really captures the modern, classic aesthetic of Tibi, while still feeling playful and versatile enough to style with my favourite statement jewellery. It’s a piece I can already tell will become a staple in my wardrobe.

 

As a busy mum, how do you balance being stylish with comfort? Do you have any favourite go-to outfits or pieces that make you feel put together yet practical for day-to-day life?

As a busy mum, comfort and style have to work together seamlessly for me, and I find that pieces with a relaxed, polished feel are the way to go. My go-to look starts with relaxed cut pants with pockets (and usually with an elasticized waist!) —practical but elegant enough to transition easily from errands to the office to an evening out with just the right shoes. I’ll usually throw on an oversized blazer (the Tibi Liam blazer is a personal favorite!) to add structure, and if I want a bolder look, I’ll reach for a statement top from Magda Butrym. This approach keeps me feeling put-together without sacrificing ease or comfort.

 

 

 

If you had to describe your personal style in just three words, what would they be? How do these words shape the way you shop?

If I had to capture my personal style in three words, they would be relaxed, modern, and playful. These qualities guide every decision I make when adding to my wardrobe.

Relaxed reflects my preference for easy, functional pieces that still look elevated—clothes that I can live in without sacrificing style. For example, I’m drawn to items like elastic-waist pants with pockets and oversized blazers that give a polished yet laid-back feel.

Modern keeps my choices fresh and relevant, whether it’s a structured Tibi blazer or a dress with unique tailoring. I’m always looking for pieces that add contemporary flair but remain timeless enough to feel right season after season.

Lastly, playful is about keeping things lighthearted, especially through striking jewellery. I love bringing in whimsical accessories that add personality, allowing me to put my own spin on any outfit. Together, these qualities shape how I shop by helping me focus on pieces that not only work for my busy life but also let me express my evolving sense of style.

 

And finally, what current Muse pieces are on your wish-list?

I’d say I’m a bit of a Tibi superfan – honestly, the whole Resort collection coming soon has me weak. I just know it’s going to end up in my closet piece by piece! And I’ve had my eye on the Magda Butyrm top (Classic Silk Flower Blouse in Green) that I wore for the shoot – it made me feel so cool and creative, and that’s a vibe I can always use more of. Oh, and let’s not forget the suede Khaite Lotus Bag I spotted in-store recently… I’m convinced it’s a need, not a want!