In a beautiful alignment of values and vision, we’ve collaborated with Real World NZ to create a specialised wool wash, designed with care for New Zealand-made merino wool and delicate natural fibres. The Perriam x Real World NZ Wool Wash combines gentle, plant-based ingredients sourced from New Zealand botanicals, ensuring a product that is both eco-friendly and effective in preserving the longevity and softness of wool. We spoke with Nicola, founder of Real World, to learn more about her journey, the inspiration behind her brand, and the shared philosophy that brought this collaboration to life.

Nicola, we’d love to hear a bit about what inspired you to start Real World. What led you to create Real World, and what has that journey been like so far?

I was at home with four young children and I was experiencing really sore hands. Everyday tasks became painful and I put it down to the Dishwash Liquid I was using from the supermarket. I not only wanted to create a beautiful DWL that sat pride and palace on the kitchen bench, not tucked away in the cupboard, I wanted to create one for myself that was Plant Based using essential oils and New Zealand extracts. It completely fixed my skin, Real World was born, we now make around 100 products ourselves in our HQ in Hastings.

How did this collaboration come about? What was it about wool care that got you excited to work with us on this?

I love natural fibers and I love Perriam clothing and I was excited to work with Christina and her team to create this all natural wool wash.

We love that many of your products feature New Zealand botanicals - what do you love most about working with natural, plant-based ingredients? Are there any New Zealand botanicals that have a special place in your heart?

I love all the New Zealand extracts that we use, they all have so many wonderful healing properties in terms of skin and repair. I especially love the Mamaku extract, This extract is made from premium Mamaku harvested in Kawhia, Waikato by Mana Wahine who carry a lineage of Mātauranga Māori on how to approach and harvest botanicals in a sustainable and respectful process.

Do you have any favorite products you’ve created at Real World, or ones that have a special story behind them?

Our Dishwash Liquid is my favourite as it was able to cure my dry skin. However all of them have a special place as they have been created by us from scratch, made by us with care in Hastings then sent to homes all around the world.

And finally, if you could share one piece of advice with those thinking about making more natural, sustainable choices, what would it be?

I always think about what I am putting on my skin. Our skin is our biggest organ in our body and many people are conscious about what they put in their mouths but not what is put on their skin. It baffles me as it's absorbed into your bloodstream. That's why I love Real World as its natural and kind on skin and family friendly.

Discover the world of Real World and their full range here.

Follow Real World @realworldnz

Images by Hazel Redmond @hazelredmond_

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