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It's been a career path with many a strange twist and turn for Angela Merrie. She's now the manager of Smith & Caughey's Newmarket store but actually started off with a degree in fine art. An expedition to London saw her working in restaurants and eateries, most memorably as sommelier at Jamie Oliver's Sloane St restaurant.
"That wasn't particularly glamorous though," she notes.
"Although the Prada shop was just over the road. It was pretty exciting looking out the window and seeing people like Elton John - and all his dogs - arrive!"
Returning home to Auckland, the wine expert went on to run the Smith & Caughey's cafe and because she was so good at that, two years ago was offered the job of managing the company's Newmarket store. And that, she agrees, can be very glamorous. "Because I'm surrounded by beautiful things all day," she says. "And getting new stock in all the time is also fun. It feels like you're shopping all day - but you don't have to buy anything."
Who are your favourite designers?
I'm incredibly loyal to New Zealand designers. I'm the kind of girl that goes to Sydney and comes home with Zambesi.
What's your biggest indulgence?
Beautiful candles, especially Christy Turlington's Sundari range. They're made from soy and smell amazing.
What is your beauty routine?
Pure Fiji Coconut Body Butter. If it's tropical I've got it. And Dr Hauschka's skincare range, especially the Quince Day Cream.
What endures through the seasons?
Chuck Taylors - everyone should have at least one pair.
Favourite accessory?
Bobbi Brown's Beach Fragrance. It smells like summer.
If money were no option?
I would travel more, eat at the French Cafe every week and own more art. Top of my list would be a painting by John Pule, they are so beautiful.
Most cherished item?
My Josh King diving swallow earrings, and my first skateboard. It's impossible to part with.
Last item of clothing brought?
A Park Vogel cashmere cardigan, the best thing for wrapping up in this winter.
What can't you live without?
Pinot noir.
Best fashion bargain?
Smith and Caughey's half-yearly sales of course.
Who or what inspires you?
French Vogue. Can't understand a word but most of my art ideas come from the pretty pictures and words.
Most stylish city?
Barcelona. I can't get enough of that crazy Antoni Gaudi. And a close second would be Berlin, great galleries, public art and architecture.
What do you really want this winter?
A Sabatini white cropped coat. It's the cutest thing.
