The meticulous nature of the Wardrobe.NYC team is evident even before the interview begins. Co-founders Christine Centenera, editor-in-chief of Vogue Australia, and Josh Goot, a renowned Sydney designer, insist on a pre-interview session to ensure they answer every question with the same precision that defines their fashion designs. This meticulous approach is a refreshing contrast to the fast-paced nature of the fashion industry, where quick media wins often overshadow long-term vision. It’s this fastidious approach that has drawn Rosie Huntington-Whiteley to the brand since its inception in 2017. The supermodel, a loyal customer of Wardrobe.NYC’s timeless essentials, has long been a fan of their dedication to crafting clothing that caters to the modern woman’s multifaceted life.
The trio’s collaboration, born from a shared understanding of the demands of a dynamic lifestyle, has been in the works for years. Christine, speaking from Paris Fashion Week, describes the rigorous 18-month product development process that involved countless discussions and global travels to perfect every detail. They meticulously analyzed technical knits for the new web bodysuit and tights, with Rosie even referring to Goot as a “fabric sommelier” for his uncanny ability to decipher the origin of any fabric. Even the seemingly simple detail of the tie on the RHW coat, developed over a six-month conversation, highlights their unwavering commitment to functionality and aesthetics.
“There are two versions of yourself,” explains Christine, reflecting on the brand’s core philosophy, “The person who works in the fashion space and the person who takes the kids to school.” This duality, embodied by Rosie’s own demanding and dynamic lifestyle, inspired the collection. “Rosie is particularly inspiring”, asserts Josh, “because of her lifestyle and how dynamic and demanding it is.” Huntington-Whiteley, a true believer in the power of a curated capsule wardrobe, wears Wardrobe.NYC’s luxe, minimalist pieces every single day. “You can’t go wrong – that’s what I love about the brand – every piece I put on looks good,” enthuses the model, who recently wore the new high-waisted flared leggings, a twist on the brand’s signature piece, from London to Paris with a white T-shirt and trench coat. The leggings, a testament to the brand’s emphasis on comfort and style, drew compliments from strangers on the Eurostar. “It feels authentic to my lifestyle,” Rosie affirms.
For Christine, the inspiration for Wardrobe.NYC stemmed from her own experience as a stylist, realizing she only wore a fraction of her extensive closet. She sought to create a “helping hand” for women who desired a simplified, well-curated wardrobe. “We want to simplify the way people get dressed by providing them with clothes that are very well made and won’t go out of fashion,” she clarifies, highlighting the brand’s commitment to quality and timelessness. Rosie, who considers Christine her ultimate style icon, admires the brand’s ability to cater to diverse lifestyles. “It was an incredible privilege to be behind the scenes and see how they bring it to life,” Rosie shares, highlighting the pair’s unparalleled work ethic. “Nobody understands how hard it is to have a clothing brand.”
This is Huntington-Whiteley’s first full-fledged womenswear collaboration, having previously partnered with brands like Marks & Spencer’s lingerie department, Gia Borghini, Hunza G, and Adanola on limited-edition lines. Her collaboration with Wardrobe.NYC, a testament to their enduring friendship, reflects a shared commitment to quality and timeless style. “I usually avoid working with friends at all costs,” shares Centenera, who was surprised by Rosie’s natural talent as a model on the campaign set. “She is such a pro with impressive bandwidth – she’s a bit like Anna Wintour!”
Rosie’s influence is evident in the collection’s focus on luxurious leather goods, including a boxy clutch and a statement belt – both items that both she and Christine had struggled to find in the oversaturated market. “I know it’s silly to say this in an oversaturated market,” admits Christine, reflecting on the brand’s philosophy of creating essential, versatile pieces. “If I go away for five days and only take carry-on, what are those eight to 12 pieces in my case?” The RHW clutch, born from this practical approach, is a versatile day-to-night bag with discreet branding and ample space for essentials.
Centenera highlights the sculpted blazer she wore during the Milan spring/summer 2025 shows as another highlight of the collection. “It’s the perfect example of tailoring that gives you the framework to feel powerful whatever situation you’re in.” The blazer’s ability to withstand travel, even without needing pressing, speaks to the brand’s commitment to practicality and quality.
Wardrobe.NYC, with its existing collaborations with Hailey Bieber, Levi’s, Adidas, and Carharrt, remains committed to a slow and steady approach to growth. They are aiming for a permanent retail space in Manhattan and a wider recognition as a household name. “People in fashion know us, but the plan is to keep going to become more of a household name,” adds Centenera. With Rosie Huntington-Whiteley as their biggest brand fan, Wardrobe.NYC is poised for continued success, offering its timeless capsule wardrobe essentials through its website.
