After 25 years, State of Grace has decided to close its doors and move onto something new. “We’ve had amazing support from loyal customers over the years and have enjoyed this wonderful journey,” said designer Sherilyn Catchpole. She added that for them, it was no longer viable to keep an independent bricks and mortar store above survival mode and compete with large companies, fast fashion and online imports. “New Zealand is slowly losing most of our smaller retailers and designers. Eventually, we will end up like Australia with just generic chain shops if the support isn’t there for independent retailers.”
Catchpole explained that it has been a big decision but feels like the right time. “With the industry forever changing and the way people shop, you have to keep so far ahead of the game. We don’t see it getting any easier, in the near future anyway.”
The Ponsonby store will be closing early July, followed by the website in the near future. Selected stockists of the label will carry the Summer 2018 collection. “We thank everyone who has been part of the State of Grace story along the way, from the local bespoke makers through to our followers and customers.”
Moving forward, Catchpole is excited for a new stage in her life and having more time for herself. “I feel happy and proud to of been around 25 years.”
