By Nick Remsen
Zimmermann’s Spring 25 collection, titled “Illumination,” draws inspiration from Morning of the Earth, a cult 1970’s-era surf film that lenses the harmony between surfers and the environment. In her youth, Creative Director Nicky Zimmermann watched these types of films–an entire genre unto themselves–and she was often captivated by surfing’s golden light, its fluid beauty and its free-spirited verve. She decided to translate this cinematic nostalgia into a collection where sunshine informs the color palette, ocean swells influence the textures, and nature’s rawness shapes the silhouette.
In “Illumination,” soft forms flow like oceanic tides, while hand-braided insets, wooden beads, and untreated cotton lace underscore a connection to the organic. There’s a fusion, too, of utility meeting this coastal bohemia–featherweight anoraks, lemon-hued cargo jackets, scuba-paneled bodysuits, sculpted heels, and wave-like trims nod to this blend. Accessories add to Zimmermann’s throwback sentimentality: shells, dolphin motifs, and beaded scarves bring back memories of her childhood, while handbags blend rustic textures with modern craftsmanship and Australian heritage motifs.
“Illumination” reflects a life in rhythm with nature—constantly shifting, open-hearted and, really, radiant.
-
A lilac base that fades into a quietly toned tropical print at the hem… As far as Miami-centric dresses go, you can’t get much better than the Dawning ruffle maxi dress.
-
The Dawning braided bodice is equal parts strong and soft; it’s fitted around the bust, yet its wavy all-over embroidery adds a delicate, mercurial charm.
-
Diaphanous as a dragonfly’s wing, the Dawning braided maxi skirt is a striking way to make a maxi silhouette appear a bit lighter and chicer.
-
This might be the most free-spirited piece in Zimmermann’s entire Spring collection. With an open fit and a deep-V neckline, the Illuminate plunge gown is a flowy, fabulous option for everything from a beach cover-up to a warm-weather evening look.
-
Offsetting the translucency, the Dawning cargo jacket adds a bit of all-season pragmatism without sacrificing the sunny tone that inspired the collection.
-
A low-height, strappy sandal with a little embellishment at the front goes a long way. The Gleam sandal offers that and more!
-
Make a statement with the Long Brim sunhat. This oversize number offers just enough shade—and style for days.
-
Sunglasses with a unique butterfly (or even angelfish) shape: the Goldie oversize frame is a Spring must-have.
-
Cargo pants have become a uniform of sorts. But that’s not to say you can’t have variety in the staple. We love the Illuminate edition, which flares out almost in an A-line shape from the waist with utilitarian, athletic appeal.
-
Swept golden grooves add fluid motion to this Glaze cuff. Glint like the sun—even at night.