The last twelve months have been defined by yearning. And the Zimmermann Fall 2021 collection roused one particular kind of yearning; for dancefloors, for live music, for being caught in a mosh pit, our eyeshadow slightly smudged, as we search the crowd for friends.
The collection took inspiration from the 70s; think monotone suiting that calls to mind Bianca Jagger, dresses printed with pop-art and sketches of record players, oversized pussy-bows and sleek bell bottoms. It also included, for the first time in the brand’s history, denim. Of course, the denim debut was still characteristically Zimmerman, with a ‘Z’ topstitched into the back pocket of the dark-rinse flares. Diehard fans won’t be left wanting more, for there were also plenty of frilled minis, dresses featuring delicate cut-outs and embellished with pink crystals.
Taking place in hometown Sydney, it was also specifically inspired by a national treasure: the iconic 70s and 80s music show Countdown. “Growing up in the suburbs, between 6pm and 7pm each Sunday night, it was this exciting and inspirational escape for me, where music, fashion and a wider world came together,” Creative Director Nikki Zimmermann wrote in the show notes. “There were all these great international bands who were touring Australia, performing alongside established and emerging local artists, and these hilariously candid interviews with the host, Molly Meldrum.
“I loved the energy and creativity that came together with each show – it was so addictive! It was a really important influence on me growing up as a teenager, which is funny when I think back to it. The collection themes came as much from the mood it evoked as much as the eras it traversed.”
With a soundtrack that included tunes from E^ST, and a runway backdrop comprised black and white videos of bands playing live, the show left us feeling nostalgic for lavish nights out. At least now we know what we’ll be wearing when we eventually congregate on the dancefloor once again.
