Latest news with #Telfar
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Elsie Hewitt Subtly Shows Off Her Baby Bump in a Classic Black Maxi Dress
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Pete Davidson and Elsie Hewitt looked so in love as they attended the red-carpet premiere of The Pickup last night for a glamorous Los Angeles date night on Sunday. The evening marked the first public outing for the couple since they confirmed they are expecting their first child together. For the occasion, the model went simple and classic in a black sleeveless maxi dress with a high bateau neck, which she paired only with black pumps. Hewitt wore fresh, rosy makeup and had her hair down in easy waves. On the red carpet, Davidson wrapped his arm around her waist, wresting it on her growing baby bump. The comedian went the street style route with his look, which consisted of an elevated sweatsuit from Telfar: a colorblock jacket in caramel brown, mocha mousse, and butter yellow, and matching light brown pants. Davidson completed his outfit with white-and-silver dad sneakers, a silver watch, and oval sunglasses. Davidson and Hewitt began dating earlier this year, but have already hit several milestones, including going Instagram official and making their red-carpet debut. Now, they are getting ready to become a family. Last week, the former Saturday Night Live cast member went on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and opened up about his happy news. 'I did it!' Davidson said with a smile as host Jimmy Fallon brought up Hewitt's pregnancy. 'Anybody who knows me… it's my dream to be a dad. So I'm so excited. Elsie's excited. I'm excited to see her be a mom. So we're stoked,' Davidson continued. 'Everything else doesn't really matter anymore. It's nice.' You Might Also Like 4 Investment-Worthy Skincare Finds From Sephora The 17 Best Retinol Creams Worth Adding to Your Skin Care Routine Solve the daily Crossword
Buzz Feed
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
36 Fashion Items If You're The Stylish Friend
A leopard print satin maxi skirt you'd choose as your one and only outfit if you were a cartoon. You'd for sure be the fashionable one on the show. Promising review: "The satin fabric feels luxurious and drapes beautifully, giving it an elegant and timeless look. The fit is true to size, perfect for dressing up for special occasions or pairing with a cozy sweater for a chic everyday look. The quality is impressive for the price, and it holds up well after washing. Highly recommend if you're looking for a versatile and stylish piece for your wardrobe!" —Tammy sturgeonGet it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in sizes S–3XL and 34 other styles). A Roberto Cavalli x Skims tie waist one piece because, I mean, hellooooo?! I-freakin-conic. They really ate this collab, I my wallet is in fear, cuz I need it all. I HAD to have something from this collection. I don't have this particular swimsuit, but I do have the triangle top and tie bottoms in this pattern and can tell you that it's absolutely gorgeous. I'm obsessed. Prepare to be sick of it from Skims for $190 (available in sizes L–4X and two patterns). A waist chain, since you're all about the details. This is gonna look soooo hot all summer long, omg, send me the pics, bestie. Promising review: "I wanted to try out waist chains as they're so freaking cute. This exceeded my expectations. It's so cute, and such a pretty color. I picked silver cause I feel like it looks better on my skin tone. Product honestly looks just like the picture. I love how it fits so perfectly and how you can adjust the size accordingly. It's honestly way cuter than I expected. —Julianna it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in three sizes and 12 styles). A Telfar ribbed maxi skirt because it's literally impossible not to look iconic when wearing Telfar. I mean, this skirt is *literal* proof, look at it. I don't even need to say anything else. And thank goodness, cuz this skirt has me it's in my cart *bites finger*. Telfar is a Black-owned NYC-based unisex line founded in 2005 by Telfar Clemens with the tagline "Not for you, for everyone."*Be sure to check out the size chart to figure out your size! It's unisex sizes, so where I'd normally wear a large in bottoms, I wear a small with Telfar. Get it from Telfar for $198 (available in sizes 2XS–2XL and four colors). An absolutely darling romper with a ruffled bottom and strappy back 😍 — it's so cute, I can't stand it. Get it from White Fox for $74.99 (available in sizes XXS–XL and three colors). A fabulous maxi dress because it literally looks like it'd be worn by Ariana Madix to the villa firepit to deliver the most chaotic news ever to the islanders. Cue the crash outs. Promising review: "My favorite clothing item I own. It's seriously perfect. I sized down and it was the right decision. Buy it if you're thinking about it!" —Lea it from Outcast for $84 (available in sizes XXS–L). A stunning satin mini dress with a watercolor print and drawstring ruching that looks like it belongs in your suitcase on a trip to Italy. Promising review: "The vintage style of this fitted dress truly elevates my wardrobe. Quality fabric and elegant look!" —C***sGet it from Micas for $42 (available in sizes XS–3XL). A maxi dress that'll have you ready to board a plane the second you try it on. Aruba, anyone? This dress deserves some sunset beach pics in another country. Promising review: "So cute and has some stretch! I bought this dress for my upcoming vacation and can't wait to wear it!" —caylee it from Outcast for $149 (available in sizes XXS–XL and three colors). A pair of rimless sunglasses because it's scientifically proven that you can't *not* feel fierce while wearing I totally made that up, but throw on a pair of sunglasses and tell me you don't feel totally fabulous. Promising review: "Stylish must-have! I recently snagged a pair of Y2K Sunglasses, and they're my new obsession! These shades boast a chic Y2K-inspired design that's both trendy and comfortable. With lightweight frames and adjustable nose pads, they're perfect for all-day wear. Plus, they're incredibly versatile, complementing any outfit effortlessly. Made with quality materials, these sunglasses are durable and offer excellent UV protection. In summary, the Y2K Sunglasses are a stylish must-have accessory that adds flair to any look. Trust me, you won't regret adding them to your collection —PavlovGet it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in five colors). A denim patchwork bodysuit that should just clock in for the summer, cuz you'll def be putting this cutie to work. Job — serving. I have this!! I got it for Cowboy Carter and am so excited to wear it. It's so cute and looks exactly like the pics, *thank goodness*. I created my entire look for the concert based on this bodysuit, and let me just tell y'all, I'm bout to eat, chomp, gobble, and chew. This was my first purchase with the brand, and I'll surely be putting in tons more orders. Get it from Micas for $28 (available in sizes XS–3XL and two colors). A scarf to help you get that vintage Hollywood look. This + sunglasses?! You're gonna be unstoppable. Get it from White Fox for $29.99 (available in one size fits all). A midi dress and cardigan set so stunning, you'll be stopped every five minutes with questions about where you got it. Rebdolls is a Latine- and woman-owned small biz that makes clothes with plenty of bold colors and fun it from Rebdolls for $79.90 (available in sizes S–5X and two colors). A knit halter dress that'll have everyone kinda nervous when you enter a room because you'll look like a bombshell entering the villa, coming to steal everybody's partner. Promising review: "I purchased this dress for my vacation to Aruba. I absolutely love it. It's so soft and adjustable that it fits me perfectly. Say yes to this dress. I feel stunning in it." —Tammy vigilGet it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors). A denim Telfar bag because stylish and Telfar are basically synonyms. I mean, I know y'all saw Beyoncé's denim Telfeezy look. The contrast stitching, adjustable and removable straps, the front pocket with card slotssss (!!!), I'm salivating. This bag is teeeaaaaa. Okay, let me enter the chat. Hey besties! My birthday just passed, and when I say I spoiled myself, I truly, TRULY mean it. My wallet is still side-eying me, like, *girl, can you stop, please*. My mood the entire month of June was ~whatever you want, you beautiful, perfect little princess~ so when I got the email about this bag, my card was out quicker than Taylor from Love Island switched up on my girl Olandria. But I don't have a single regret cuz it's now my favorite purse. There's just so much space, and as a girl, that's amazing. None of my clothes ever have pockets, and I am just extremely fond of itty bitty purses that only fit a lip gloss and my ID. I almost don't know what to do with myself cuz I have so much room for stuff. I squeal every time I look at it, like it's my baby. I'm so excited to pair it with my Cowboy Carter fit (for pics, I know I can't bring it into the venue). It's worth every cent that I spent, and I will forever stand on though I need a new tire. But be so real, a tire or a Telfar bag for my birthday, likeee?! Pfttt, forget my tire, lol. I'm literally just a girl. *Calls my father*.Get it from Telfar for $280. A crochet mini dress that *is not* lined, but still isn't see-through! The cutout waist and ruffled hem make this cutie extremely hard to resist. Aw, forget it, get in the cart, babe. Get it from Outcast for $135 (available in sizes XXS–XL and two colors). A set of 68 stacking rings in different sizes that'll give you endless jewelry combos to create. Promising review: "Run, do not walk, and scoop this up. There is such an incredible variety of rings — different styles and sizes — that there is something for everyone. The rings are well-made. High quality. Definitely would buy again!" —JamieGet them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six different sets). A crochet beach dress because you're def not a *big T-shirt and shorts cover up* kinda person. If you plan to look absolutely fabulous every moment of the day, this is a look that'll help you totally devour your beach day. Get it from Boohoo for $31 (originally $84; available in sizes S–L). A pair of Western-style knee-high sandals with a gladiator silhouette that'll have everyone dying to know where you got them. Promising review: "Love the color, although I was skeptical at first. But I can wear these with practically anything! The heel is not too high or skinny, so they are extremely comfortable." —Bositta them from Akira for $119.90 (available in sizes 5.5–11). A leopard and lace maxi dress cuz nothing says fierce like a little bit of growl power (shoutout to The Cheetah Girls). The brand is worn by celebrities like Tyla and Doja Cat, and has even been worn by Maddy Perez (Alexa Demie) on an episode of Euphoria! Get it from for $95 (originally $169; available in sizes XS–M). A 25-pack of nose cuffs to match your aesthetic without having to face any more needles. So many cute designs, you'll definitely be obsessed with these. Promising review: "My friends are now obsessed! Gave so many people the link to these because they're very stylish. I have both sides of my nose pierced, but hate changing the studs out. This is so easy to slide on and off, I don't even need the piercing at this point." —Kay FinesseGet them from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in seven different sets). A pair of flowy pants, a summer must-have for creating all kinds of looks — cozy, cute, casual, dressy, beachy, and basically any other summer look you can think of. Promising review: "Seriously, love these pants, and I can't tell you how many compliments I get on them. They're linen and they're perfect for summer. I can go to a business meeting or go out with the girls. I have three colors now. —Kelly FajardoGet them from Amazon for $29.69 (available in sizes XS–XL and 15 colors). A butterfly top because the early 2000s was such an iconic time in fashion. Okay, maybe not the skirts over jeans, but there were def some gems! Get it from Akira for $69.90 (available in one size). A crossover crop top with keyhole cutouts that you'll surely get your money's worth out of, cuz once you put it on, you'll wanna wear it nonstop. Get it from Rebdolls for $24.43 (originally $34.90; available in sizes S–5X). An asymmetrical top + skort set that def gives ~mamacita~ vibes *looks at Nic from Love Island*. Promising review: "I'm thrilled with this curve skirt set! The fitted style is incredibly cute, and the fabric offers just enough stretch for all-day comfort. Perfect for a casual spring outing, I felt both stylish and confident in it!" —C***aGet it from Micas for $42 (originally $48; available in sizes XS–3XL and two colors). A tie-front mini dress with metallic chain straps for a look that says *I'm barely trying today, but still am the most stylish one in the room*. Ya know, just a casual slay. Promising review: "I wore this fitted mini dress to a casual summer picnic and felt so comfortable all day. The mid-stretch fabric really hugs my curves without feeling constricting. Love the quality!" —s***hGet it from Micas for $62 (available in sizes XS–3XL and three colors). A Telfar track skirt that'll have you sitting on the product page for hours because you won't be able to choose a color and are tempted to buy one of each. It's me, I'm describing myself. Heheeee, back again, lol. Yep, I bought this too. I told y'all I spoiled myself. I bought this in the store on a trip to New York as another birthday gift to myself, cuz why not? It's SOOOO cute. I have Telfar bags but hadn't bought clothes yet, and Telfar's clothes honestly run very small *because* remember, they're a unisex store. I can switch between medium and large normally for other brands, but for Telfar, I'm a small in bottoms and an extra small in tops. I was literally so confused when the employee kept telling me I should try a small (because, sir, do you see all this booty?!), but shout out to him cuz he was spot on. This skirt is of such great quality, I just know that I'm not even gonna eat food in this skirt. I'm a clumsy mess, and I refuse to spill anything on this; I'd crash out so bad. The light blue is so cutesy, it's perfect. I'm obsessed with my skirt, and I promise I'll get pics soon. I've been ridiculously busy, and planning outfits for a billion other things I've had to do, but I have so many plans for this skirt. Now let me get off this product page because the longer I look, the more I realize I need this in chocolate and cream, it from Telfar for $135 (available in sizes XS–2XL and nine colors). A keyhole bodysuit for 'fits that require a plain, solid-color top. Even your *plain* is a step above the ordinary in style. Get it from Rebdolls for $20.93 (originally $29.90; available in sizes S–5X). A bodycon maxi dress you'll wanna wear on every summer vacay. It's perfect for an outdoor lunch or even to impersonate a famous pop star on a trip to Italy while Paolo tells you that "you shine with the light from the sun." Promising review: "It's stunning, breathtaking, and beautiful. It was love at first sight when I saw it. It's worth every penny! It makes you feel like a goddess! I got all the compliments! I'm definitely buying this dress in different prints. 🥰" —Kia HowardGet it from Amazon for $49.98+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 12 colors). A ruffled dress made from chiffon fabric for a light, airy feel. It has an adjustable lace-up front and tie cuffs on the sleeves, which will make it that much harder to resist wearing it every day. Get it from Boohoo for $34 (originally $68; available in sizes 12–24). A maxi skirt with a super high slit that'll have you feelin' the heck outta yourself. 👏👏👏 as you should, honestly. Get it from Rebdolls for $31.43 (originally $44.90; available in sizes S–5X). A dramatic ruffled gown because one thing everyone can expect from you is that you'll show up overdressed, looking like you belong on the cover of a magazine. Snag this if you want everyone to look at you like when Cinderella entered the ball. The pics in this are gonna EEEEAT — I'm talkin' three-course meal style. Promising review: "Vibrant, stunning, and eye-catching. Also, the most comfortable thing you'll put on. I bought this for a beach vacation with fancy dinners, for which I knew I wanted comfort above all else. I was stopped repeatedly for compliments, and I felt so comfortable. Perfect with flats or heels due to the high-low construction, belted or flowy (I opted for flowy), the dress is lined for whatever undergarments you choose. I am adding to my collection now. If this comes out in green, I'll have to add another to my collection!" —Ashley TGet it from Eloquii for $189+ (originally $279.95; available in sizes 14–28 and four colors) A pair of tie-up shorts so cute, they'll have the rest of your closet feeling the favoritism. Promising review: "I absolutely fell in love with these shorts! The fit is impeccable, and they hold their shape beautifully. Perfect for casual outings!" —K***nGet it from Micas for $40 (originally $42; available in sizes S–XL). A tooth gem kit since you love to bedazzle literally everything. Super cute trend that'll make your smile *even more* dazzling. You'll get cotton rolls, micro applicator brushes, gems, two bottles of glue and cleansing gel, gems, a gem picker, and a mini LED light. I have these and they're so cute! I personally was skeptical, so I didn't cure them too long because I only wanted them on my teeth for the day. They ended up being perfect and fell off before the end of the day (which was what I wanted). I'm sure if you're interested in keeping them on for longer than a day, you just cure it for longer. I just knew that I wanted them off the same day, so I only cured them for about 30 seconds. The glue came right off with the gem! I also bought other gems, like the butterfly pictured, and they worked just fine!Get it from Amazon for $32. A tie-strap mini dress, a simple slay, but still oh so cute. Just looking at it makes me wanna twirl around like a fairy. Get it from Rebdolls for $34.93 (originally $49.90; available in sizes S–5X). A totally adorable button-down halter and shorts set you'll definitely need a zillion pics in. This set will have you actually looking forward to doing laundry, just so you can wear it again. Get it from Cider for $49.90 (available in sizes 2–10 and two colors). A pair of cowboy boots for anyone who plans to dress like they're going to the rodeo all spring and summer long. You're gonna wanna lasso up a few of these in different colors. Promising review: "These are my most worn boots. Particularly in the spring and summer. They are incredibly comfortable and look so cute with mini skirts and dresses." —Hannah henegarGet them from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in sizes 5–11, wide fits, and nine colors).
Forbes
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Telfar Clemens On The 20th Anniversary Of Telfar: 'We Would Love Our Legacy To Be An Alternative Model For Cultural Sovereignty'
Courtesy of Fast Company On one of New York's first sweltering days of the summer, Telfar Clemens chose to mark a milestone in a unconventional way: with an off-calendar fashion show. This wasn't the first time the brand had deviated from the traditional fashion calendar; Clemens's last two 'shows' also broke with convention, eschewing the typical runway structure. This time, however, the designer was celebrating a particularly significant occasion: the 20th anniversary of his eponymous label, Telfar. To commemorate the milestone, Clemens staged an outdoor fashion show in a New York alley at the crossroads of Cortlandt and Walker Street. The location, unpolished but still touched with Telfar's essence, as his white and neutral-toned tank tops hung on clotheslines from building to building looming above the audience. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 21: Models walks the runway during the Telfar 20th Anniversary Fashion ... More Show on June 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Udo) Founded in 2005 during Clemens' time as a student at Pace University, Telfar was slow to rise but flew into cultural consciousness a decade later with its now-iconic shopping bag also known as the "Brooklyn Birkin." The simple, vegan leather tote, embossed with the brand's logo, became a symbol of accessibility and inclusivity. This message was underscored by the brand's slogan, 'It's not for you— it's for everyone.' Its rapid rise cemented Clemens' position as a revolutionary figure in fashion, and for a long time Telfar, the brand and the person, became synonymous with 'New York Cool.' Beyond the bag, Clemens' designs have consistently explored themes of gender, identity, and Americana aesthetics—subjects that have shaped his career from the outset. As early as 2010, he introduced his ForMale collection, which challenged conventional notions of masculinity and played with the performance of gender. Over time, these themes became central to his work, evolving in complexity but always staying true to their core. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 21: Models walk the runway during the 2025 Telfar Fashion Show at Telfar ... More on June 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by) In the two decades since Telfar Clemens founded his brand, he has transformed from an emerging designer into a cultural force. Along the way, he has won a CFDA Award for American Accessories Designer of the Year in 2021 , designed the uniforms for the 2021 Liberian Olympic team, and launched Telfar TV, a 24-hour network and channel. Also, he opened a flagship store on Canal Street, collaborated with White Castle to design their uniforms, and created costumes for Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter and Renaissance tours. Now, after two decades, Clemens chose to commemorate it all in the most fitting way: with a show staged in the very New York streets where his name and brand were built. The runway date, one of the longest days of the year, thanks to the summer solstice, and every hour that the show ran late (2.5 hours, to be exact), was felt. During the 1.5 hour mark of lateness, Telfar's casting director Jorge Gitoo Wright, came out to warm up the already very warm crowd. "If you think we're late, we're not. We're on time, bitch!' Of course, with Telfar, there's always a twist. With this initial runway show, he introduced an initiative of 'New Models,' a casting search of new faces, done by a voting system akin to Love Island, where if you watched the show, or the casting call via Telfar TV, you got to vote for your favorite model. Tommiana, a newly cast "new model" in the show, recalls, 'Having recently left a corporate job, I suddenly found myself with more free time. It felt like the perfect opportunity to focus on myself, so I decided to take a leap and attend the casting call. I was really nervous because it was my first one ever, and I wanted to make the best impression.' NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 21: Model walks the runway during the Telfar 20th Anniversary Fashion Show ... More on June 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Udo) Before the casting, he remembers the scene clearly: 'The line was already wrapped around the block. But luckily, a friend of mine was already there, so I joined him. The Telfar team was scouting for new models up and down the line, looking for all kinds of fresh faces. I overheard Jay from the Telfar team asking if there were any dancers, and without thinking twice, I jumped in and said, 'I dance!'' According to Tommiana, after the casting segment, 'They let us know that people at home would decide, and we got to mingle with the crowd in the store,' he says. 'It was so powerful for Telfar to use his platform to showcase this 'new model' of what fashion is and what it looks like. It was all about Queer and POC liberation." A week after the casting, Tommiana stayed prepared by working out, when he received an email with details for the new models show, along with media to post on social media to promote himself and encourage people to vote. 'I plastered it everywhere,' he says. 'I had my entire community spread the word, and they did! When the live broadcast of the show went down, I felt so much love. I could just see how cool the entire thing was. At that point, I didn't even care about winning,I was just happy to be part of it. But I still wondered if I'd won.' NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 21: Model walks the runway during the Telfar 20th Anniversary Fashion Show ... More on June 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Udo) The next day, he received an email confirming he was cast. When he arrived at the studio, he was greeted by "none other than Telfar and casting director Jorge Gitoo Wright, who made the entire process feel so easy," welcoming him 'with open arms.' "Im so grateful to the Telfar team and I am so proud of them. I can't wait to see what the next 20 years hold for Telfar because I know it's revolutionary, he's always been," Tommiana says. Below, we caught up with Telfar Clemens and Telfar's creative director Babak Radboy about 20 years of Telfar. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 21: Models walk the runway during the Telfar 20th Anniversary Fashion Show ... More on June 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Udo) As Telfar approaches its 20-year mark, how have your priorities evolved in building and sustaining a namesake brand, especially one that has consistently chosen to operate outside traditional fashion systems? We couldn't have foreseen the challenges that come with 'success.' This happens on many different levels. Being able to realize that scale and profit may not be synonymous with success is back to its inception, what values or strategies have remained central, and which have transformed most dramatically over time? Our independence and desire to determine the social use of our work are the center of what we do. That hasn't changed. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 21: Models walk the runway during the Telfar 20th Anniversary Fashion Show ... More on June 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Udo) One of the more unconventional choices Telfar has made is opting out of the traditional fashion calendar. What informed that decision, and what do you feel is gained—or even lost—by showing on your own terms? Well its funny to say this to Forbes — but the fashion system is financially small but culturally a very potent front of western supremacy. It's understandable that people feel they deserve recognition there in Paris or NYFW — of course they do. But the power to grant recognition is what needs to be questioned. we felt we should rely on our own community directly instead. Those choices were huge risks and they have given us so much show felt like a culmination, a celebration of Telfar's multitudes. From the nods to Americana and lifestyle aesthetics to the way you wove together so many different subcultures and eras of the brand, it made clear that Telfar isn't for one particular person, but for everyone. As you assembled these looks, from the opener to the finale, what did that process reveal to you about the legacy you've built so far, and where you feel compelled to take it next? We decided we would cast the people who mean the most to us and who were there the longest — along with their families and our families as our models. We wanted to ground ourselves because the scale of things the last few years has created some alienation for us. In general we've been strategically shrinking things down to a scale where you can actually feel something. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 21: Models walk the runway during the Telfar 20th Anniversary Fashion Show ... More on June 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Udo) With New Models, you opened the runway to your community in a way that was natural for Telfar. How did the idea of involving your viewers in such a direct way come about? You've consistently reimagined what a fashion show can be, but what is it about featuring new faces and real people that continues to feel essential to the brand's DNA? Well, New Models is a model search show but it's not really about fashion models - it's about cultural models. Social and political models. It's really about how the model we have all experienced the last decade - the model of 'representation' is killing us. We need a model of collective agency. So we basically started a modeling agency. you think about the long arc of Telfar, beyond trends, beyond product drops, what kind of legacy do you hope the brand leaves behind? What do you want people to say not just about what Telfar made, but what it stood for? We would love our legacy to be an alternative model for cultural sovereignty- so you know, write for Forbes or whatever it takes — but have an exit strategy and bring others with you.
Otago Daily Times
30-06-2025
- Otago Daily Times
Forklift driver jailed for raping teen
By Tracy Neal, Open Justice multimedia journalist Warning: This story references rape and sexual assault and may be upsetting to some readers. A young woman who was raped by an older man she was socialising with still struggles to breathe when remembering the fear of him pulling her on to the bed that night. The woman told Shannon Douglas Telfar he would have no idea of how it felt to want to 'rip your own skin off', as a result of being indecently touched. She said everything about him, and how he had taken advantage of her and how he had created stories to protect himself, disgusted her. However, she said 'the truth always comes out', and after being sentenced on Friday to eight years' imprisonment, he would always be known for what he had done. A jury found Telfar, a forklift driver, guilty of indecent assault and rape, after a trial earlier this year. On Friday, the victim's mother said in a statement she read in the Nelson District Court that he had tried to hide behind the church but a true Christian lived by the values of God, and Telfar had not. The victim said she had learned that even people known to her 'can do bad things'. 'I still remember the look on your face when you forced me to touch you,' she said. Four years on, the young woman said she still had nightmares and was afraid of being alone with any adult man. The victim's mother acknowledged Telfar's family, some of whom were present for the sentencing, with many supporters. She said they too were victims, and her heart went out to those who continued to stand by him. 'Premeditated and persistent' Crown prosecutor Sophie O'Donoghue said the offending was premeditated and persistent. She said Telfar, 47, had control of his actions but chose to offend to satisfy his own sexual interests. The victim was vulnerable, there was a disparity in age, size and strength, and there has been a breach of trust. Defence lawyer Tony Bamford said the aggravating features were accepted. Judge Jo Rielly said Telfar was drinking and socialising with friends at home on June 23, 2021. The victim, who was in her late teens and knew Telfar, was also there socialising and drinking with the group. After the friends had left, Telfar and the victim went to different rooms. Telfar then began messaging her 'repeatedly', urging her to go to his room. Judge Rielly said the messages were 'pleading' and 'demanding' and ultimately, vulgar. Eventually, the victim went to his room, believing he was unwell, but when she handed him a bowl she thought he needed, he instead grabbed her and pulled her on to the bed. Judge Rielly said Telfar then raped the victim, who froze, unsure of what to do. About a month later, he indecently assaulted her at another social occasion but she was able to escape and call for help. 'Hurt and traumatised' Judge Rielly said Telfar had maintained that the events did not happen. He even gave evidence that the victim 'might have had a sexual interest in him'. However, the victim continued to struggle to understand how Telfar got any enjoyment from what he had done to her. 'She is disgusted, hurt and traumatised,' Judge Rielly said. She noted the family support Telfar had received and how those who knew him, including parents, siblings, children, stepchildren, his partner, ex-partner and others in the community, struggled to associate events with him. However, his use of alcohol on this occasion may have disinhibited him to act in ways others had not seen. Judge Rielly said it was clear Telfar had alcohol misuse issues but they were not linked to his behaviour, and neither could the court consider alcohol consumption as a mitigating factor. 'Nothing I say today is intended to reflect on you as a person generally, because it's clear you are a much-loved member of your whānau and community, but I need to focus on your offending behaviour and denounce that.' From the starting point of an eight-and-a-half-year prison, Telfar was given a modest credit for the impact his imprisonment would have on his youngest child. His release would be determined by the Parole Board. SEXUAL HARM Where to get help: If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111. If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:• Call 0800 044 334• Text 4334 • Email support@ • For more info or to web chat visit Alternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list. If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault. Safe to talk - He pai ki te kōreroSafe to talk - He pai ki te kōrero Sexual Harm. Do you want to talk? (2 MB) New Zealand PoliceNew Zealand Police Find Police stations by map New Zealand Police
Otago Daily Times
30-06-2025
- Otago Daily Times
South Island forklift driver jailed for raping teen
By Tracy Neal, Open Justice multimedia journalist Warning: This story references rape and sexual assault and may be upsetting to some readers. A young woman who was raped by an older man she was socialising with still struggles to breathe when remembering the fear of him pulling her on to the bed that night. The woman told Shannon Douglas Telfar he would have no idea of how it felt to want to 'rip your own skin off', as a result of being indecently touched. She said everything about him, and how he had taken advantage of her and how he had created stories to protect himself, disgusted her. However, she said 'the truth always comes out', and after being sentenced on Friday to eight years' imprisonment, he would always be known for what he had done. A jury found Telfar, a forklift driver, guilty of indecent assault and rape, after a trial earlier this year. On Friday, the victim's mother said in a statement she read in the Nelson District Court that he had tried to hide behind the church but a true Christian lived by the values of God, and Telfar had not. The victim said she had learned that even people known to her 'can do bad things'. 'I still remember the look on your face when you forced me to touch you,' she said. Four years on, the young woman said she still had nightmares and was afraid of being alone with any adult man. The victim's mother acknowledged Telfar's family, some of whom were present for the sentencing, with many supporters. She said they too were victims, and her heart went out to those who continued to stand by him. 'Premeditated and persistent' Crown prosecutor Sophie O'Donoghue said the offending was premeditated and persistent. She said Telfar, 47, had control of his actions but chose to offend to satisfy his own sexual interests. The victim was vulnerable, there was a disparity in age, size and strength, and there has been a breach of trust. Defence lawyer Tony Bamford said the aggravating features were accepted. Judge Jo Rielly said Telfar was drinking and socialising with friends at home on June 23, 2021. The victim, who was in her late teens and knew Telfar, was also there socialising and drinking with the group. After the friends had left, Telfar and the victim went to different rooms. Telfar then began messaging her 'repeatedly', urging her to go to his room. Judge Rielly said the messages were 'pleading' and 'demanding' and ultimately, vulgar. Eventually, the victim went to his room, believing he was unwell, but when she handed him a bowl she thought he needed, he instead grabbed her and pulled her on to the bed. Judge Rielly said Telfar then raped the victim, who froze, unsure of what to do. About a month later, he indecently assaulted her at another social occasion but she was able to escape and call for help. 'Hurt and traumatised' Judge Rielly said Telfar had maintained that the events did not happen. He even gave evidence that the victim 'might have had a sexual interest in him'. However, the victim continued to struggle to understand how Telfar got any enjoyment from what he had done to her. 'She is disgusted, hurt and traumatised,' Judge Rielly said. She noted the family support Telfar had received and how those who knew him, including parents, siblings, children, stepchildren, his partner, ex-partner and others in the community, struggled to associate events with him. However, his use of alcohol on this occasion may have disinhibited him to act in ways others had not seen. Judge Rielly said it was clear Telfar had alcohol misuse issues but they were not linked to his behaviour, and neither could the court consider alcohol consumption as a mitigating factor. 'Nothing I say today is intended to reflect on you as a person generally, because it's clear you are a much-loved member of your whānau and community, but I need to focus on your offending behaviour and denounce that.' From the starting point of an eight-and-a-half-year prison, Telfar was given a modest credit for the impact his imprisonment would have on his youngest child. His release would be determined by the Parole Board. SEXUAL HARM Where to get help: If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111. If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:• Call 0800 044 334• Text 4334 • Email support@ • For more info or to web chat visit Alternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list. If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault. Safe to talk - He pai ki te kōreroSafe to talk - He pai ki te kōrero Sexual Harm. Do you want to talk? (2 MB) New Zealand PoliceNew Zealand Police Find Police stations by map New Zealand Police
