Robyn's Fascinating Clothing Journey
Robyn has decades of experience in the New Zealand fashion industry and has become a well known face both in Nelson and around the country with a devoted following for her boutique clothing, classic shapes, personalised fits and colours that stand the test of time. Now residing in Nelson, New Zealand, Robyn’s fascinating journey has taken her around the country over many years, all whilst building a loyal following both here and across the world.
Discovering a Hidden Talent for Fashion
Growing up Robyn had no aspirations to be a fashion designer and it wasn’t until she was in her late thirties that she realised her talent for clothing and women’s fashion. Robyn grew up with her family in Hamilton, discovering an interest in sewing throughout high school. After leaving high school, she quickly obtained a machinist certificate, unaware that her future career path had already been decided.
Embarking on her OE in 1980, Robyn worked as a machinist at a sewing factory in London, making canvases for army trucks. It was here that Robyn discovered the local clothing markets which sparked the flame that would eventually become her working life and her greatest passion.
Not long after returning to New Zealand, Robyn started her first clothing stall in Hamilton at the local market with her sister.
From Small Beginnings
After working from a home studio in Hamilton for a period of time, Robyn’s daughter Amelia was born and shortly after, the loving mother and daughter moved to Wellington, with Robyn selling hats and other garments in the Manners Mall on Friday nights. Robyn later formed Fin Clothing with a local screen printer, operating out of an old church and selling to the public at the Wakefield Market.
Quickly becoming popular amongst the Wellington locals, Robyn moved into a studio space on Cuba Street in the heart of Wellington where she remained for six years. Realising her passion and talent for fashion design, Robyn moved to Nelson to study fashion and textiles at NMIT.
Becoming One of New Zealand's Most Loved Fashion Designers
Following her graduation in 1999, Robyn established a name for herself with a weekly stall at the Nelson Market. “Wow Rob, look at you. Go girl!” a friend said to Robyn and pretty soon Go Clothing was born. Go Clothing established itself on Bank Lane, Nelson, with a loyal local following allowing Robyn to hire staff and transition into a fully-fledged fashion designer.
After twelve years on Bank Lane, and a short holiday later, Robyn moved her business into a new studio on Bridge Street, renaming to simply Robyn Reynolds Clothing. She quickly grew to become one of the most well-loved fashion designers both in Nelson and throughout the country.
Moving into Her Dream Studio
Robyn has recently moved into her dream studio in the heart of Nelson City on the creative, quirky and lively Church Street, nestled among a variety of other locally owned and operated businesses.
Her new studio has provided her with the opportunity to expand her business further with a gallery, workspace, and more display racks to showcase her timeless designs.
