We love finding new and unique stores, and the Unknown Collective in Takapuna is exactly that. The store’s mission is to provide a platform for fresh emerging Kiwi brands and designers to get their product out in the marketplace. The Unknown Collective also has the unique twist of their Custom Cut Corner. The Unknown Tailor will customise one of their blank garments for you with pockets or sleeves to create your own unique piece.
The Unknown Collective stocks funky 5 panel’s from Lots of Spirit, menswear from Stay True, Team Intl, Lost Boys Collection, The Lucid Collective, Dishonest Want and gorgeous womenswear by The Oblivious and Twiceshy the Label.
They also stock the fab Thick as Thieves satchels, jewels by Bedrock Bones and Young Pilgrims Jewellery
We spoke with Store owner Dominic Ellet to find out more about the Unknown Collective, its inception and what inspires him.
What made you decide to open your store?
I’ve always wanted to open a store, since I started working retail around 7 years ago. I have always been passionate about the fashion industry, mainly street-wear and I had so many concepts floating around my head! What took me from concept to reality though was after I had experienced set backs in my other retail jobs I decided “you know it’s time for me to take my career into my own hands” so I sat down with my folks and we talked about opening a store for real. Thanks to my their support I was able to open The Unknown Collective, I owe them big time
Tell us a bit about you, and what inspires you style wise
I am a Coffee & Tea enthusiast, music lover, and antique shop frequenter.
I’m inspired by so many things really, mainly cultures and sub cultures surrounding barber/ tattoo shops, punk/ hardcore music, folk music and street wear.
My inspirations are better articulated through images on my tumblr. Style wise I love anything influenced by punk/grunge/athletic aesthetics: acid wash, denim, leather, flannel, these elements make up awesome garments!
What are your favourite blogs
I follow a bunch of rad blogs but this one is my newest find: Freeman brand, and my friend Gem who is co-owner of Hunter Gatherer one of our brands, runs Black Bird Blog which is so cool (We Love blackbird blog too).
Who is the typical Unknown Collective customer
We have a pretty broad customer base, which I think is awesome, basically anyone who is into fashion and NZ design will like our store. Because of our location we do get a lot of young people and high schoolers come in who are into fresh brands and products that make them the cool kids on the block!
You can check out The Unknown Collective online here, on facebook here or check out their store located at 62 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna, Auckland.
PS. Stay tuned for a fab giveaway from the Unknown Collective at Midday today.
