Reading Time: 2 Minutes
I have always loved being around clothes and fabrics. We opened our first retail store in 1975 in Parnell, after working in the industry for around seven years. In 1979 we decided to establish our own label and opened the first ZAMBESI store in Lorne Street, Auckland.
Neither Neville and I can remember! Or we both have differing stories! I remember it being suggested and Neville designed the graphic and we thought it looked cool. I like that it is at the end of the alphabet.
It was an amazing experience and endorsed our presence in Liberty whom we had been supplying for two seasons. Being part of London Fashion Week was incredibly exciting and the exposure was great for all of us.
At home relaxing. Enjoying my home environment, wandering around in my dressing gown drinking a black coffee. Sometimes, if I am lucky, I get served coffee and toast in bed and get to watch an old movie.
I would still be in the industry, either as a stylist or buyer because I love putting garments together and choosing brands that I identify with and believe in. Actually I am doing those things now. So anything to do with textiles and creativity in the industry would be where you would find me.
Because I do not age discriminate when I go about the design process. I don’t think about the demographic and design instinctively.
It can come from many experiences, but fabric has always been my main inspiration. I am surrounded by talented, creative people and they continue to inspire me.
Newmarket hosts some amazing stores and cafes. One of my favourites is L’Atelier du Fromage for great cheese and wine.
Watching the clock to see if it is too early to rise and make a coffee.
Because the girls have grown up immersed in the business, working together comes naturally and we all contribute our particular skills. The girls also free-lance. Marissa is an accomplished photographer and show producer, and Sophie creates and directs music videos and curates music for events.If we disagree sometimes it is because we are passionate and care so much! I love that we are working together and I am immensely proud of Neville and the girls.
It has not changed the way I work creatively. It has been a huge transformation though and continues to be. Of course we now are available online at
www.zambesistore.com
It gives our clientele the opportunity to experiment with a curated selection of some
of my favourite international designers whose work I admire. I still believe in the bricks and mortar experience.
Forgive yourself your mistakes!
Love, family, music, friends and stories.
Those around me who have supported my dream and been part of it!
My Ann Demeulemeester platforms that I bought in Antwerp many years ago because I cannot walk in them. My fault not hers! Anyway I've still got them just in case!
There are always dreams to realise...
Tags: