“It’s really amazing that we haven’t killed each other in over 30 years of working together!”: Nicky and Simone Zimmermann in an exclusive Elle interview

No trace of tension. And that despite Nicky and SimoneZimmermannjust before the opening of her first Germany boutique in Munich(Maximilianstrasse 16)put. The sisters are their own best advertising faces. Ageless, thrilling and deeply relaxed. Typicaleven. Like the fashion with which they conquered the world from their parents' garage. They talked to Elle about happiness, her German father and her fascination with surfing...

Simone Zimmermann:Optimism!

Nicky Zimmermann:I want to design fashion that makes people happy. My designs should be associated with positive memories and accompany the wearer for a long time.

N. Z.:When my adult children come to dinner on a Sunday evening and my husband cooks for everyone.

S. Z.:Family is also important to me. But walking on the beach on a sunny day and jumping into the sea makes me very happy(laughs).

N. Z.:It's really amazing that we haven't killed each other in over 30 years of working together! We are very different, but that is precisely why we value our company.

S. Z.:And we share the same views. I think it's because we were raised by two strong personalities. Our family is very close-knit. Nicky's and my journey has taken us from Paddington Markets in Sydney to the country of our father's birth.

N. Z.:I'm pretty neat for a designer. But I couldn't say whether that's because I'm half German or born under the order freak zodiac sign Virgo...

S. Z.:We definitely picked up a work ethic from our parents. Coupled with the relaxed nature of Australians, it's a pretty good combination.

N. Z.:Absolutely. We have never been heavily influenced by what is happening in the market. This allows us to tell our very own stories to this day.

S. Z.:The origins and nature of Zimmermann are Australian. Even if we operate very internationally as a brand, Australia was a safe training ground for us. We were able to gain experience long before we were successful worldwide. This is what we have ahead of many European brands: We really know who we are!

N. Z.:The light in Australia is unlike any in the world. The film succeeds in capturing this beauty and the unique attitude to life. It reminded me of the hot summers of my childhood and inspired me a lot.

N. Z.:Definitely city! I would die if I had to live in the country!

S. Z.:I am also a city person. Although we are lucky to live so close to the water here. Australia is special in this respect. Even Sydney is not as urban as Paris, New York or London. The pace here is more relaxed.

N. Z.:How about “The Zimmermanns are still having fun!”? Because that's exactly what it's all about. Especially at the beginning of a career, many people don't realize that they have to find something that they can enjoy for a long time. Of course, it's not always easy. But finding fulfillment in what you do is a great gift!