Nicole Rebstock has become a pillar for all things footwear. We step into her world of creativity as she takes us through what sparked her love for shoes, her favourite designs and what styles to keep an eye out for these coming seasons. 

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Can you tell us a bit about the story behind Nicole Rebstock? 

After this, I talked to a friend who had started a clothing label about how I could find a manufacturer. I then started looking at courses in London where I could learn about shoemaking so there was definitely a lot of self-teaching involved! From that moment forward I started gearing up my life to take the leap. I quit my part-time job as a gymnastics coach and got a part-time job in a shoe store.

What sparked your interest in designing shoes?

I really wanted to honour my European heritage and bring my love of feminine, timeless design to the New Zealand market, something I felt we really missed. I also just love shoes, it’s as simple as that! They bring me joy and a good pair of shoes makes you feel empowered, like you have it all together, even on the days when you feel like you don’t!

What is the inspiration behind your most recent collection ‘The Blue Sky Project’?

'Blue-sky' thinking is conceptualizing without the constraints of reality. A realm where anything is possible and the seeds for innovation are planted. Blue skies signal times of joy, optimism and laughter in the warmth of summer. For many of us, blue skies bring a sense of renewal and the space to dream. As the cooler days melt away, we are revitalised and ready to paint on a fresh canvas.

This season we chose to create our own blue sky. A balmy, soft blue, washed with crisp white clouds. It's the Kiwi summer we all yearn for, painted on a gigantic canvas. A world of our own to explore, with no limitations. We try to create campaigns with a deeper meaning as we want people to be inspired and dream big. This was fundamental to the creation of my label and is something I want to encourage other young women to do.

What are some of your favourite pieces in your collection?

• Nemesis Pump, specifically in our limited edition glitter colourway. I think we all just love a bit of sparkle in our lives!
• Boston Loafer. To me, these feel like the epitome of chic. They’ve got the edgy square toe, the big eye-catching hardware and channel the key trend of the sling back.
• Asher Heel. I’m a real sucker for a good pop of colour and I always try to choose a finish that does the colour justice.
• Nina Pumps. I just love this feminine and flattering play on our nemesis pumps.

What are some of the latest footwear trends that we can expect to see more of?

• Sling backs have made a huge comeback this year and you’ll see them peppered throughout our entire collection. From flats to heels, points to square toes.
• Square toes. We are now starting to see a more elongated square toe which I’m excited for, particularly next season.
• Dual tones. You’ll see much of this throughout our current collection, from styles like Mini, Polly, Nina and Balta.
• Oversized bows
• Shiny leathers, patents, oiled leathers and metallics.

For those wanting to build on their shoe collection, what are some staple styles that should be in every wardrobe?

What can we expect next from Nicole Rebstock? 

This season marks a fresh start for us, a subtle but conscious shift in design; preserving and perfecting our timeless pieces while focusing on the special detailing and femininity that sets us apart. We have had such a wonderful response to this seasons collection and are really excited about bringing even more of this in the future.

Next year will see us dive heavily into the designer sneaker market and hopefully continue to expand our retail presence.

Explore more of the beautiful new arrivals here.

Nicole Rebstock
22 Osborne Street, Newmarket