The founder of a fast-growing beauty chain says women just want to look better.

Dressing actors for Auckland Theatre Company's period piece Mary Stuart doesn't mean slavish adherence to Tudor fashion.

Finding clothes that fit and don't make people laugh becomes the bane of every pregnancy. You have a tight budget with a baby on the way but still need to be able to go out in public.

Songstress and mother Jackie Clark is doing her bit to help families hit by the Christchurch earthquake.

Kate Middleton may have been using venom from New Zealand bees as a face treatment ahead of her wedding.

When the financial crisis hit, fashion said farewell to the froufrou. Three years on, sleek silhouettes, muted colours and an austere androgyny continue to dominate the catwalks.

More and more fashion designers are creating their own prints: Viva finds out the story behind the fabric.

Supermodel and muse Ines de la Fressange is the epitome of Parisian chic. She lets Viva in on a few of her shopping secrets and style tips

The lost art of embroidery, once the sign of domesticity and an accomplished gentlewoman, is examined and celebrated by artist Deborah Crowe with a display at Objectspace.

Two businesswomen are on a mission to win converts to their mineral makeup cause.

Local Topman menswear buyer Liam Coleman tells Viva about his style dresser.

Its intricacy, expense and craftsmanship once made it a must-have for England’s elite. Denise L’Estrange-Corbet traces the history of Honiton lace, a famous feature of royal births and weddings.

Hip publisher Jefferson Hack discussed the future of media in Melbourne - and Viva was there.

Ever wanted to create your own perfume? Head to Paris, says P.K. Stowers.

John Key will wear a bespoke New Zealand-made suit at the royal wedding woven from merino and washed with pounamu (greenstone).

Looks matter if you want to get a job - but it may only help you if you're a handsome man rather than a pretty woman.

Middleton is leading the competition in a global online search for the best-looking British royal.

You can bet that one would shop at Selfridges for one's wedding attire if one happens to be attending Prince William and Kate Middleton's nuptials.

Look closely and be afraid, very afraid, about hair health. That's what trichologist David Salinger does for a living.

A tip for blokes: Look in the mirror - and please pull up your pants.

Annabel Fay has a gorgeous voice and a hot wardrobe.

Designer Charlie Brown has brought a touch of Sydney style to Auckland.

Viva celebrates the life and work of Britain's most imaginative - and imitated - designer, Vivienne Westwood.

The annual Dunedin Fashion Week continues to stimulate and inspire.

The way we shop is changing, and the web is to blame, writes Zoe Walker.

Christie's has announced plans for a series of auctions featuring some of the late actress' belongings.