
Oh Hej Sister | Mara + Claudia
A friendship that started as kids in Germany and moved to the other-side of the world. Two soul sisters that have been through it all together. One of hej hej's fav photographers, Mara Sommer, captures her sisterhood with BBF Claudia.

Mara, what is your top pick from the hej sister collection and why do you love it?
There is so much to love from the season, but my favourite is the Might Be Bias Dress. I don’t wear dresses often, but I really like this shape and also that you can combine it with a long sleeve silk and cashmere rib top for the colder days.
Claudia, you’re wearing the Soul Sister, don’t you just love it? Tell us why you love it.
It is beautifully made with a simple yet absolutely stunning design. It makes you feel loved, like a spontaneous hug from a good friend.


What moment did you know Mara was your soul sister?
Claudia: Oh, there were many moments. From moments when we burst into laughter for ridiculous reasons only we could see, to moments when we shared our most intimate feelings. Actually, I shouldn't speak in the past tense - those moments still make our friendship special.
What is the weirdest thing you have in common with Claudia?
Mara: I guess it's pretty weird that we both ended up on the other side of the world. We have known each other since we started school together in Germany and have been close fiends ever since. Now we both live in New Zealand and have daughters aged 9 month apart who are already as close as we were back then.

The worst thing you’ve ever worn? And don’t even try to justify it.
Claudia: There was a time when we were really into The Beatles. I remember feeling very cool putting together an outfit of bell-bottoms, a huge black T-shirt refined with a piece sign necklace, round sunglasses and a bigger than life hat. Well, I felt cool and everyone else stayed silent ;-)
Mara: Yes, around that time we used to do little photoshoots of ourselves. The outfits we chose for this were terrible! I remember flare pants and cropped DIY batik shirts. I am sure Claudia's sunglasses made an appearances too.
What bonds you?
Claudia: Our similar sense of humour, being able to tell each other anything without feeling judged and many many years of silliness and walks in the park
Mara: Yes I agree with all of this. There is a really deep trust between us. I know I can always count on Claudia and it's great that we have known each other for so long and so well.


Mara, can you please give a 1-2 line intro of Claudia?
Claudia is a person who you can totally rely on. She is kind hearted and open minded. She is an amazing mother to her daughter and the best friend I can wish for!
Claudia, can you please give a 1-2 linen into of Mara?
Mara is like no one else I know. She is kind, open minded, unbelievably creative, down to earth, humble and knows what she wants. She is dedicated to her art and her family and friends. I am so thankful to have her in my life!
Thanks for joining our hej hej sisterhood ladies xx
All photos taken by the incredible Mara Sommer.