Meet the Viva Team: Annabel Dickson, Fashion Assistant

What can people expect from Viva Premium?

Amazing and innovative journalism and lifestyle talent! Our team works very hard to put together a unique and extraordinary piece that showcases the best of New Zealand content while giving it an international look and feel. Personality is also not lost, some of the articles and shopping galleries that you see are problems or style needs that we also face.

What’s the best thing about your role?

I love working with creative and interesting people. I am truly in awe of the incredible work that New Zealand designers produce, and I love working to bridge them and Viva together.

Describe your personal style.

My style is constantly changing. I find myself drawn to silhouettes that are clean and sophisticated but with pops of color and unexpected elements. I am a maximalist at heart. I am currently obsessed with chic maxi skirts and have acquired about 10 of them in search of the perfect cut.

What’s your favorite New Zealand store or brand?

God, too many to count. Brands I frequent include Benjamin Alexander, Wixii, Wynn Hamlyn, Paris Georgia and Harris Tapper. Smaller brands I’m interested in include Rhyana, BW 36174 (Blair Wheeler), Frisson Knits, Taylor Groves and Emma Jing.

What’s the most special outfit in your wardrobe, and why?

Every item in my wardrobe has a special place in my heart. I like to collect things that I don’t usually use every day. My most special piece right now is my new Emilia Wickstead dress, a little black shift mini. If anything happens to him I will spin.

Where is your go-to place for dinner and drinks with friends?

I really like wine bars. An elevated yet relaxed place where you can drink and snack on great food and enjoy some fine wine. My favorites are Bar Celeste, Freidas and Beau.

I’m not very selective with coffee. I drink Americano, so you can get half decent anywhere. I really like my local cafe, Little French Cafe in Pt Chevalier.

What’s your favorite meal to cook for company, and for yourself?

Anyone who knows me knows I can’t stand cooking, but I love dinner parties! Foods that are easy to throw together are my go-to: charred broccoli and chipotle tacos are always a crowd pleaser. When I’m alone, my absolute favorite is the miso noodle and wonton soup, perfect any time of year and done in under 30 minutes.

What else do you read, listen to, or watch when you’re not reading Viva?

I get my biggest fashion intake from Instagram; I have an account that I check almost daily. @Linneklund And @Fannyekstrand is my favourite. Otherwise, I like to read Gentle woman And British Vogue, and listen After Work Drinks occasional walks to the beach.

A book (or two) you can’t put down?

In your free time, what do you like to do?

I’m from the south, so spending time outdoors among nature fills my cup. I hate being away from the ocean for too long, so going to the amazing beaches around Tmaki is a must for me. Whether it’s (trying to) go surfing or just strolling along the beach, I always find what I need.