There's something quietly luxurious about dressing for a New Zealand winter. Unlike the deep freeze of northern hemisphere cold, our winters are layered affairs — crisp Hawke's Bay mornings that soften into mild afternoons, coastal breezes that arrive without warning, and evenings that call for something genuinely cosy. The secret to navigating it all? Natural fibres, worn in thoughtful layers.
At Design Emporium, we've always believed that the best wardrobe is one built on quality fabrics that work with your body and your climate. This winter, we're sharing our favourite layering combinations — and the care tips that keep them looking beautiful season after season.
Start with the Foundation: The Cashmere Blend Poncho
Every great winter outfit begins with a piece that does the heavy lifting. Our Cashmere Blend Poncho in Denim Blue (also available in other colours like our gorgeous Brick Orange ) is that piece for us this season.
Ponchos are the unsung heroes of layering — they drape beautifully over everything from a fitted merino base layer to a relaxed linen shirt, and the generous cut means you're never restricted. The cashmere blend brings a softness that synthetic fibres simply can't replicate, and it regulates temperature naturally, keeping you warm without overheating when you step indoors.
Styling tip: Wear your poncho over a slim-fitting turtleneck for a polished, put-together look, or throw it over a simple tee for effortless weekend ease. Tuck the front into wide-leg trousers to define your silhouette.
The Mid-Layer Hero: Cashmere Wool Blend Batwing Jumper
For days when you need a little more structure, our Cashmere Wool Blend Batwing Jumper in chocolate is endlessly versatile. The batwing cut is relaxed and forgiving, making it ideal for layering — it sits beautifully over a fitted base without bunching, and the wool-cashmere blend gives it just enough weight to feel substantial without being heavy.
Chocolate is one of those rare neutrals that works with everything in your wardrobe, from navy and black to earthy tones and deep jewel colours.
Styling tip: Layer this jumper over a fine merino long-sleeve and under a linen jacket for a three-layer combination that takes you from a cool morning meeting to a warm afternoon lunch without missing a beat.
The Unexpected Winter Layer: Linen Jacket in Onyx
Yes, linen in winter — and we mean it. Our Coats and Jackets are one of our most-reached-for pieces this time of year, and here's why: linen is a natural insulator. It traps warmth close to the body while remaining breathable, making it the perfect structured outer layer on milder winter days or an elegant mid-layer when temperatures really drop.
The Onyx colourway is deeply sophisticated — it pairs effortlessly with the chocolate jumper above, or adds a sharp contrast to the brick orange poncho for those who love a bold combination.
Styling tip: Wear the linen jacket or coat open over a cashmere knit for a relaxed, editorial feel. Or button it up over a fine-knit turtleneck for a sleek, minimal look that works beautifully in a professional setting.
Caring for Your Natural Fibres
The beauty of investing in natural fibres is that, with a little care, they last for years — even decades. Here's how to keep your winter pieces looking their best:
- Cashmere & wool blends (incl. Merino Mix): Hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool wash, or use a delicate machine cycle. Lay flat to dry — never hang, as this can stretch the fibres. Store folded, not on hangers, and use cedar blocks to deter moths. → Merino Mix Care Tips
- Linen: Linen softens and improves with every wash. Machine wash on a gentle cycle in cool water and line dry or tumble dry on low. A light iron while slightly damp brings it back to its crisp best. → Linen Fabric Care Tips | Linen & Cotton Care Tips
- Silk & cotton knits: Gentle hand washing is best — cool water, no wringing. Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight to preserve the lustre. → Silk & Cotton Knit Care Tips
- Viscose (knit, woven & linen blends): Viscose is delicate when wet — always hand wash or use a very gentle machine cycle in cold water. Lay flat to dry and avoid heat. → Viscose Knit Care Tips | Viscose Wovens Care Tips | Viscose Linen Wovens Care Tips | Viscose Cotton Care Tips
- Tencel: Machine washable on a gentle cycle — Tencel is one of the more low-maintenance natural fibres. Tumble dry on low or line dry. → Tencel Care Tips
- Organic cotton: Machine wash warm or cool, tumble dry on low. Simple and durable. → Organic Cotton Care Tips
- Leather: Keep leather away from water and direct heat. Condition regularly with a quality leather balm to maintain suppleness. → Leather Care Guide
- Not sure what your fabric needs? Visit our complete → All Fabric Care Tips guide.
Come and See Us in Napier
There's no substitute for trying pieces on in person, especially when you're building a layered wardrobe. Our Napier store team loves helping customers find combinations that work for their lifestyle, body, and personal style — whether you're dressing for the Hawke's Bay arts scene, a weekend at the beach, or simply the everyday pleasure of feeling well-dressed.
Pop in and we'll help you build your perfect winter wardrobe from the ground up. We'd love to see you.
Explore our full winter collection online or visit us in-store in Napier.