I have always had a strange affiliation with RM Williams boots. Possibly it's due to my first girlfriend riding a horse: I remember that the boots were even harder to remove than her bra but I did admire the craftsmanship (of the boots).
More likely it's my appreciation of many of the values the company holds dear. Their appreciation for quality and how they have resisted the temptation to move their manufacturing to cheaper shores preferring to support local industry and craft.
Whilst much of their collection is very casual there are one or two absolute standout pieces that work really well with tailoring. The Chelsea boot is an all time classic footwear piece and their interpretation of it is as good as any; The Craftsman is available in a number of colours as well as now being available as a bespoke offering.
My second motive for attending the event was to experience the recently opened Kauri Bay Boomrock, a fantastic venue. We are already working with a number of couples who are planning weddings here and I can see why.
RM Williams have recently opened stores in Wellington and Auckland and are well worth a visit if you are on the hunt for that perfect Chelsea boot to wear formally or equally as well with a pair of jeans.
Founder Murray Crane caught up with Awling and discussed all things menswear, New Zealand’s approach to it and why he’s so fond of handcrafted goods. Read a shortened copy below or visit Awling to read to full interview. Hi Murray, thanks for finding some time to speak to us. Let’s start with getting some background on yourself. Where...
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Sometimes, a design marries form and function so well that it essentially can’t be improved upon. So it is with the pea coat, a contemporary menswear staple that still manages to look peerlessly stylish despite being almost entirely unchanged since the early 1700s. Featuring a double-breasted six- or eight-button closure, an a-line shape finishing just...
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Welcome back Farheen. What do you do at Crane Brothers? I have joined back as Office Administrator in Head Office. Essentially I take care of the staff and their wellbeing, ensuring there are smooth processes for each department, and oversee invoicing and accounts. The role is very diverse. Since I was at Crane Brothers previously...
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