Overview
Your battle with Wellington's wild weather may finally be over. Popping up on Willis Street until August 4, Okewa is arming drenched Wellingtonians with rainwear designed with both function and aesthetic in mind. Crafted with premium waterproof materials and seam-sealed in Christchurch, Okewa coats will turn your workday puddle-hopping into a catwalk strut of confidence.
Māori for "large grey raincloud", Okewa is designed with Wellington in mind. Having made the rain-soaked capital their home after completing their studies, co-founders Nevada and Nick Leckie began Okewa in 2014 after recognising a gap in the market for stylish yet practical raincoats. Although a daunting idea for many, they have certainly found their niche.
Relishing the challenge, their goal is to become 'the best in the world at doing rainwear' — and this leaves no room for imperfection. Partnering with mills across Japan and Korea, they have found the most durable and breathable fabrics available. Nevada's talent for design has created collections that are classic and season-less. The result? Rainwear that can withstand 10,000 millimetres of rain while oozing luxurious design that is sophisticated yet simple.
Surrounded by styles ranging from their urban 'street' coats and city chic trenches to Tokyo-inspired 'Nezu' coats, you will be spoilt for choice in the boutique pop-up store. Lush cashmere scarves from fellow Wellington-based designer, Jonathon Hall of Kept Limited, feature as well as beautiful winter boots from Katie Revie's 'High Winter' collection.
Wearing Okewa will not only make you look good, but you will feel good too. All materials come from Bluesign-approved mills which ensure that products are safe for those handling the materials, the environment and for you. Ethical rain protection has never been so chic. Although there are currently no plans for a permanent retail spot, expect to see Okewa pop up again next winter. For those who can't wait that long, their website showcases their full collection.
Uniquely Kiwi, Okewa has captured the essence of Wellington's fashion forward style and waterproofed it for the world to enjoy.
Find the Okewa Rainwear pop-up at 83 Willis Street until August 4.
Image: Provided by Okewa (Nevada and Nick Leckie)