Exquisite olde worlde charm: Molto Bella

With its romantic ‘olde worlde’ charm, and ability to evoke distant images of Positano on the Amalfi Coast, Rangiora’s Molto Bella is a destination store you won’t want to leave.

Every single corner of the boutique is adorned with beautiful one-off items to be admired, the highlight being the Purolino Italiano range, that’s been specially created for Molto Bella. From the moment you enter, the tranquil fountain sets the ambient tone and you’re surrounded by elegant posters, furniture, plants and designer fashion.

Owner Anette Drewery says customers are mesmerised as soon as they see the picturesque, easy-to-find store. “People say it’s beautiful when they come in, the reaction is overwhelming.” Formerly known as Fernside store, The Old Meadery, the natural fibre boutique is now located at the newly-renovated former post office building at 199 High Street.

Anette is the only purveyor in New Zealand who directly imports the linen clothing, which comes from Positano on the Amalfi Coast. The range of handwoven linen dresses has been popular in North Canterbury all summer long, quickly gaining a fan following for their light and easy-to-wear floaty fabric.

Other drawcard purchases are the different array of tapestry cushions, linen throws and pure woollen baby blankets from Lithuania, towels from Turkey, and fragrant French soaps. Supporting local producers, Anette also stocks decorations, bags, embellishments, and toys, made by North Canterbury craftspeople.

As an environmentally-friendly and conscious store, once you’ve bought that special item, you can walk out the door carrying your new purchases in organic, natural fibre, cotton tote bags.
www.moltobella.nz