Nikki Zimmerman. “We have a very good relationship with French women.”

The adventures began in 1991 in the bohemian district of Sydney, Paddington. In a country where fashion is not as popular as in Paris or London, two sisters take on the challenge of creating a brand at the height of femininity, characterized by romantic prints and airy dresses. Nikki Zimmerman is the artistic director, her sister Simone is directing the operations. With its unique aesthetic and the energy of the duo, the label is quickly gaining popularity. Today, Zimmermann shows at Paris Fashion Week, continues to open boutiques across Europe and has 3.7 million followers on Instagram. in an interview with Madame Figaro On March 4, moments after her fall-winter 2024-2025 fashion show, Nikki Zimmerman talks about the secrets to success and the benefits of working with family.

Madame Figaro . – What were the inspirations for this collection Nikki Zimmerman? – The collection is called “En Illustration”. It was inspired by 1920s magazines I found in shops in Paris and I loved the illustrations. We applied and got the rights and printed on the dresses. We also cut 1920s silhouettes and textures, and Barry Otto (Australian actor and artist, editor’s note) allowed me to print his own designs on my dresses.

When we think of an Australian brand, we think swimsuit , surfer outfit, denim mini shorts. At home we are more about romanticism, poetry, flowing dresses. Hasn’t Zimmermann always been a Parisian-inspired brand?
Perhaps you are right. We have two stores in Paris, we just opened a space in Galeries Lafayette and we will soon open another one in Bon Marché. We have a very good relationship with the French woman. I think it’s because we love beauty. We celebrate femininity, connectionouterwear masculine and elegant dresses. It’s important to us that women feel good about themselves.

Print is very important at Zimmermann. How do you manage to make this pattern desirable in an age where fashion is more focused on minimalism?
Our design philosophy has always been based on optimism and a sense of fun. So typography is integral and an important part of the narrative we explore each season. All our prints are commissioned and designed in house. We consider each silhouette and design each piece of art specifically for each garment and textile. I get a lot of joy out of working with color and print, and I think it’s contagious.

What does your sister bring to you that is important to you?
Simon is the company’s operations manager and is incredible at what he does. The fact that he makes sure everything runs smoothly every day means I have the freedom to do what I need to creatively. We use our strengths. As sisters, we can be very honest and transparent with each other; we have our differences sometimes, but there is no one else i would rather work with.

You managed to combine your professional success and family life. Your secret.
I am very fortunate to love what I do and work in business with my sister and husband. We’ve shared ups and downs, and the important thing I’ve learned is to always have fun, and even when you’re not, to surround yourself with people who are always ready to laugh.

Laura Smet, Luann… They were front row at your last fashion show. Even Lana Del Rey wore Zimmermann on her world tour just last summer. Who are the women who best embody your brand?
These are all women who love things that help them feel beautiful. I am a huge fan of Lana and find her very inspiring. Seeing her wearing pieces from the brand is a joy.

Fashion shows in Paris, store openings in Madrid… You are more and more present in Europe. What inspires you about us?
Probably the food (Is laughing).