Zimmermann opens in River Oaks District
Nicky Zimmermann, cofounder of the womenswear brand, likes the brick-and-mortar stores to reflect her and sister/co-founder Simone Zimmermann’s personalities. The siblings-turned-business partners have worked with the same designer for the past 25 years to perfect that distinctive Zimmermann look and feel.
“You walk in and know you’re in a Zimmermann store. The furniture and art is chosen for where you are, be it a specific building or state,” Nicky says. “It’s a little bit quirky and interesting. Coming into a Zimmermann store … it’s a discovery.”
Houston’s outpost is no exception. Zimmermann opened a new location in River Oaks District over the weekend.
The aesthetic is unapologetically feminine — and, recognizable. “The dress, in particular,” Nicky adds of the brand’s signature item. “From the print and the color, everything we think about when we’re designing is to make the person wearing it feel beautiful.”
With Zimmermann stores, the sisters set out to make the process of purchasing one of their garments memorable. The artwork is pieces that Nicky and Simone love.
Nicky first launched the label in 1991. Her sister joined the business later that year, and they opened their first storefront in 1992. The siblings have 50 locations across their native Australia, the United Kingdom and United States.
Zimmermann loyalists look to the brand for special-occasion dressing. They’re shopping for an outfit that will become part of a milestone’s memory — such as engagements, christenings and weddings. Each collection includes butterflies, florals and a wide range of watercolors. It’s peak feel-good fashion. Dress prices start at $375.
“That’s what the Houston woman is coming in for, that sense of fun, joy and optimism that a beautiful garment can give you,” Nicky says. “The Houston woman knows how to accessorize and make it individual.”
Now she can create a truly layered look. Zimmermann has expanded its product line to offer jewelry and sunglasses. There’s footwear, belts and even swimsuits in the River Oaks District store, too.
“When I see a woman in a dress we’ve done, but put together in a way we hadn’t imagined … that’s the power of accessories,” Nicky says. “My favorite thing is when a woman wears it how they want to wear it. That’s what I love to see.”