Zingiber

 

Zingiber was involved in a group showcase as part of New York Fashion Week in September, which, along with multiple shows on home soil, captured attention both in Australia and overseas. Making connections will always be an ongoing, ever-evolving process.

It’s an exciting time indeed in Australian fashion right now.  As an all time lover of fashion, and a total devotee of Australian fashion designers, nobody is more excited about the industry spectacle that Sydney is about to embrace. Yes, it’s that time of year again. Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 2015.

I will be sitting front row in many shows across this jam packed week, and I have no doubt I will witness the unveiling of many new iconic labels. This years event will boast no less than 47 collection shows and the showcasing of 70 of Australia’s leading and emerging designers. Special events, industry seminars, and a networking glitz and glamour gala awaits for industry insiders.

One of Perth’s acclaimed swimwear designers, Zingiber, is showcasing in the middle of fashion week this year in the runway event simply called ‘Swim’.

The designer behind the label, Nicola Spicer is one of six designers showcasing in what is sure to be a hot bed of talent for those competing to have their collections and names recognised in the global swimwear market.

We caught up with Zingiber before the Sydney event to find out more about her label.

 

 

LM

What is the philosophy behind your label?

Z

Zingiber is dedicated to the confident, edgy woman who likes to make a statement and take risks, while still maintaining an element of sophistication. I design my vibrant prints in house, and make my swimwear in Australia. I aim to create beautiful swimwear that brings something unique to the market.

LM

What is the inspiration behind your label?

Z

My passion for design is what inspired me to launch Zingiber.  The label is largely inspired by my travels and the unique places and cultures I have experienced around the world, and how this can be reflected in my designs.

LM

Who are the people from whom you take inspiration and whom do you most admire within your industry?

Z

I seek out inspiration from a variety of places, people and things, and wouldn’t say there’s one person who most inspires me. Zingiber is an exploration of the design and art of different cultures around the world, and how I can bring a modern edge to it.

LM

What do you think of today’s street fashion?

Z

The recent emergence of athletic, sports-inspired styles is one that I’m really loving and which has influenced my designs.

LM

What advice would you give to aspiring fashion designers?

Z

That anything is possible if you work hard. If you’re not working hard for it, then something isn’t right!

LM

What is your advice to young women and the way they dress?

Z

Be classy, be yourself and don’t be afraid to be different from the rest.

LM

What influence do you think social media has had on our current fashion industry and do you think it is a positive or negative influence?

Z

Social media is such a key part in any brand’s arsenal.  It has had a massive influence on all industries, but particularly in fashion, which is driven by the visual. I would say it has a positive influence – so long as you do it right!

LM

What is your favourite social media platform?

Z

Instagram and Pinterest

LM

What age bracket do you design for?

Z

Zingiber is not designed for a particular age bracket, but rather confident women of any age who aren’t afraid to make a statement with their swimwear.

LM

When your designs are photographed how do you like to see them represented and on whom?

Z

Quality is extremely important to me in the representation of my designs, which is why I will only work with the best in the industry. I take careful consideration when choosing who will be seen in Zingiber and only work with models and personalities who will suit the Zingiber philosophy.

LM

Do you rely on fashion bloggers to spread the word about your label and how serious an effect do you think they have had on our industry?

Z

Fashion bloggers have had a huge impact on the industry and the development of brands. It’s definitely an invaluable part of building a brand’s online presence but it can often become a make-or-break situation. I choose to only collaborate with bloggers who are on brand and echo the Zingiber aesthetic and ethos.

LM

Do you think our obsession with youth and only directing fashion to the very young has created a restricted playground for designers at large?

Z

It will only restrict you if you allow it to. My personal practice isn’t to design for a particular age, but to create swimwear that all women can feel comfortable and beautiful in.

LM

Do you feel that the industry as a whole helps you to succeed or do you feel alone in your quest?

Z

Last year, Zingiber was a completely independent developmental process for me. In recent months I have been able to surround myself and work with some brilliant people in the industry. There’s give and take – you need to have the strong foundations to drive your own business, but there is only so far a label can get without industry support.

LM

How could you be better supported?

Z

In such a competitive industry, you really need the strength as a designer to create your path and build success – if you truly want it, you will do anything to make it happen! There is definitely support out there, but it’s up to the designer to find the right mentors, advisors, partners, creatives and financial support to build their label.

LM

What designers do you love in Australia? Overseas?

Z

In Australia I really love and admire the designs of Zhivago and Sass and Bide, my favourite international label is Moschino.

LM

Do you think that as a population, we dress well?

Z

I feel Australian’s have a more casual, down-to-earth vibe when compared to a lot of other countries, which I love.

LM

What advice would you give someone moving into fashion design?

Z

If you are going to do it, go all in, it’s a big risk to take and you need to believe in yourself and your work to succeed.

LM

Who are your favourite bloggers?

Z

Sydney Fashion Blogger, Micah Gianneli and Mstr of Disguise; confident, daring women who know themselves and own their style.

LM

How important is the runway exposure when offering a new collection?

Z

Massive! We are currently working on our runway show for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia and it is so important to nail the finer details and pull it all together to present the collection with an impact.

LM

What do you feel the fashion industry needs to offer which it is not?

Z

Beautiful, flattering and fashion-driven clothing for all shapes and sizes. The fashion industry needs to ditch the “one size fits all” ideal and cater to a wider range of body types.

 

Until next time,

Jade x