Florals are in for spring, but for Nicky Zimmermann, they never went out of season. “We don’t move. We are floral,” she said with a laugh.
Known for its romantic designs and vibrant prints, the Australian brand has gained a following among celebrities including Jennifer Lopez, Naomie Harris and Katie Holmes.
After two seasons at the ornate Petit Palais, the brand switched to a white box inside the Palais de Tokyo contemporary art museum, the better to set off its airy gowns in complexion-enhancing hues.
“It has been amazing fitting it and watching how the dress changes according to who we’re putting it on. I mean, all the girls are beautiful, but some girls are just blue girls, and they put blue on and it’s amazing. And the same with the peach,” the designer said in a preview.
Inspired by botanical art from the 1920s, flora illustrations translated into sheer prints and tone-on-tone laser-cut fabric flowers. Gradient silk dresses that billowed in the wind were guaranteed to make an entrance at a pool party.
While Zimmermann is known primarily as a resort label, in recent years the brand has diversified its offering to include categories like knitwear and denim, in addition to accessories such as handbags, shoes, eyewear and jewelry.
Standouts this season included dancer-style knits and a terrific selection of shirtdresses and skirts made of buttery soft napa leather.
With a second boutique in Paris slated to open in November, the brand continues to expand at a rapid pace. In August, Advent International, one of the world’s largest private equity investors, reached an agreement to acquire a majority stake in the company, and further openings are planned for Scottsdale, Ariz.; Orlando, Fla.; and the Caribbean island of St. Barths.
“They’re fully on board with what we want to do. That’s what they want us to do, so we’re just doing it together,” Zimmermann said of her new backers. It seems like everything’s coming up roses.
