ZIMMERMANN FROM WOMEN TO WOMEN

Q: Do you have a pre/post show ritual? Something you like to do before the show as a good-luck sign and something you do after every show either with your team or alone to celebrate the success?

Before each show, I always take a moment to center myself and breathe. It’s a quiet moment where I reflect on how far we've come, from the first sketches to the final look on the runway. I have a little ritual where I touch something meaningful to me—like a piece of jewelry or a small token—that grounds me and reminds me of the passion and hard work behind the collection. After the show, I always gather with my team to thank them for their dedication. We may toast to the experience and reflect on what went well, but also where we can push boundaries for the next one. It’s always a mix of joy, relief, and excitement.

Q: Can you tell us about the journey that led you to give birth to Zimmermann? Is there a story behind the dream - more than achieved - of doing this for life? Did you have an ‘epiphany’ (as the English writer James Joyce used to call it) that led you to realize that this was your true vocation?

Zimmermann was always something I dreamed of—more like a quiet knowing than an epiphany. From a young age, I was drawn to creativity and the idea of designing something beautiful that women would love. The turning point for me came when I realized that fashion could be more than just clothing—it could be an expression of who we are. I knew it was my true calling when I felt that deep connection to the art of creating and seeing how fashion could empower and uplift others. That’s what led me to Zimmermann—a brand that celebrates femininity and timeless elegance.

Q: What is your creative process like when designing a collection? Where do you take the inspiration from? Are you more of a relaxing, travel person or do you prefer the artistic side of it, perhaps visiting exhibitions and museums?

My process is a blend of many things—it's never the same, and that’s what keeps it exciting. Inspiration can come from anywhere: travels, art, emotions, or even everyday moments. But one of my greatest and most consistent sources of inspiration is Australia—its landscapes, colors, and natural beauty have shaped my aesthetic from the very beginning. There’s something incredibly special about the contrast between its raw, rugged coastlines and soft, sunlit hues, and I often find myself drawn to those elements when designing. I also love both sides of the creative journey—moments of relaxation, where I can step back and absorb my surroundings, as well as the more artistic side, like visiting galleries or immersing myself in different cultures. It’s always a mix of influences that come together in unexpected ways.

Q: How becoming a designer changed your vision and perception of the fashion world?

Becoming a designer shifted my view of fashion from something aspirational to something deeply personal. I used to see fashion as a distant world of glamorous runways and unattainable ideals. But when you’re behind the scenes, you realize how much dedication, resilience, and teamwork goes into it. It’s a lot more than just beautiful clothes—it’s about creating something meaningful that connects with people and reflects a moment in time. It's humbling, and it continues to evolve as I grow as a designer.

Q: Can you walk us through the recent Fall 25 Ready-to-wear collection Hypnotic presented on occasion of the Paris Fashion Week? From the ideation to its realization.

The Hypnotic collection was really an exploration of contrasts—of soft femininity and boldness, of lightness and structure. I was inspired by the idea of a woman who is in command but still exudes grace and elegance. We started with fabrics that had a tactile, almost otherworldly quality, and layered them to create movement. The collection is about drawing the eye in, like a hypnotic spell. The challenge was translating this feeling into pieces that felt both wearable and impactful, and I think we achieved that balance beautifully. Every piece was carefully considered to be not just fashionable, but empowering for the woman who wears it.

Q: Zimmermann is a brand from women to women, known for its sophisticated femininity. Is there a woman you particularly admire with whom you would like to collaborate, either a model or a singer/actress that, according to you, would perfectly represent the brand?

There are so many inspiring women who embody the essence of Zimmermann—those who exude confidence, elegance, and a sense of individuality. I admire women who carry themselves with grace and strength, who embrace both softness and power in their own unique way. It’s always exciting to see how different personalities bring their own interpretation to the brand, making each collaboration a reflection of their personal style and spirit.

Q: Is there a Zimmermann piece or collection that is more special to you than the others (maybe due to a sentimental attachment)?

Each collection holds a special place in my heart, but I do have a deep connection to the first ever collection we showed at Australian Fashion Week. It was the start of everything, and to see those pieces come to life on the runway was such a monumental moment for me. The emotion of that first show still stays with me—it was the beginning of realizing this dream.

Q: Are you satisfied with Zimmermann today? Or do you have bigger plans for the future?

I am proud of what Zimmermann has become, but there’s always more to achieve. I’m a believer that the journey is ongoing, and I feel incredibly excited about the future. We have amazing plans, including expanding globally and continuing to evolve the brand with new ideas, fresh designs, and experiences for our customers. There’s always room for growth, and I’m looking forward to what’s next.

Q: If you close your eyes and go back to the year 1990, before founding Zimmermann, which is the first emotion that you feel? Would you ever have fantasized about your brand becoming such a success or did reality overcome the dream?

Back in 1990, I remember feeling hopeful and excited, but also uncertain. I didn’t know exactly what the future would hold. I had dreams, but I didn’t know how far we would go. I think in many ways, the success of Zimmermann has far surpassed what I could have imagined back then. It's both humbling and thrilling, but what I’ve always focused on is staying true to the vision and continuing to push forward, no matter how big or small the steps.

Q: Which is your relationship with Italy? We know you already own five stores here: Milan, Capri, Florence, Forte dei Marmi, and Rome, and now you are about to open your first boutique in Venice. Is it a personal bond that brings you closer to Italy or is it just good for business?

Italy is incredibly special to me—it’s where craftsmanship, beauty, and history all come together. There's something about the Italian approach to design and artistry that resonates with me deeply. It’s not just about business; it’s about the rich cultural connection. Every time I visit Italy, I feel inspired by the landscapes, the architecture, and the people. It feels like home in many ways, and I’m so proud to see Zimmermann represented in such an iconic country.

Q: Zimmermann has become a globally recognized brand. How would you describe its evolution over the years?

Zimmermann has evolved from a small, Australian-based brand into a global name, and it’s been such an exciting journey. What started with a focus on swimwear has expanded into a full collection that resonates with women everywhere. The evolution has been about staying true to our core values of femininity, elegance, and sophistication, while also pushing boundaries and embracing new opportunities. I think what has always set Zimmermann apart is its ability to combine beauty with function, creating pieces that women not only want but also feel good wearing.

Q: If you could go back to when you first started your career in fashion, what advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell myself to trust the process more and not rush. There’s so much pressure to succeed quickly, but the real growth comes from taking the time to build, learn, and reflect. I’d also remind myself to embrace the challenges, as they are often the greatest teachers. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but if you remain focused on your vision and stay true to who you are, everything will fall into place.