As part of our International Women’s Day series, we’re sitting down with the women behind some of our most-loved New Zealand brands. This time, we chat with Penny Styles, founder and creative director of Remain, about the journey to building her own label, the power of personal style, and the inspirations that fuel her creativity. From morning rituals to must-have wardrobe pieces, Penny shares what keeps her motivated and what’s next for Remain.

Tell us a little about yourself – what keeps you busy? What do you do?

I am the creative director and founder of Remain.
Between running my business alongside my husband Aaron and being a Mum to my 11 year old son Scout and our English Bulldog Gordon my days are pretty full.

What does a day in your life look like?

I try to get in either some Pilates or a walk every morning at 6.30am, It’s nice to have a little me time and I find keeping fit is everything for my mental health!
Then I’m into my day getting Scout to School, and to the office, I’m very fortunate in that's is just a 5 min drive from home!
My day can vary with anything from design and marketing meetings, fittings, sales appointments and even just catch up with our accountant.
We are a small team so I am across so many different things, no two days are ever the same and think that's why I love it!

What inspires you?

Travel and cities inspire me, there is nothing I love more than hitting the streets in a new place and finding the “hidden gems” whether it is an amazing boutique, a vintage store a wine bar or coffee shop… it's the hustle and bustle and the people and things you see on the way that inspire me and get my creativity flowing

What did you dream of being or doing when you were younger?

I have always wanted to work in fashion and dreamed of having my own brand!
Feeling very fortunate writing this as I know what a privilege it is to be able to fulfil a dream

What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?

Ohhh So many…. but advice that's really resonated and I probably consider weekly Is
Learn to differentiate between the things that are in your control and the things which are not. Don't focus on the ones that aren't.