NYFW: Black Ops in Leather and Lace at Zimmermann Fall 2019

Nicky Zimmermann zeroed in on a specific muse for the line’s Fall 2019 collection: a female World War II heroine named Nancy Wake. Ms. Wake was born in New Zealand, became a fighter with the French Resistance, and devoted her life to espionage in Europe during the war. Known to enemies as “White Mouse” for her cunning elusiveness, Wake was credited with playing a critical role in France’s efforts against the Germans, including freeing thousands of tyrannized people in the country.

Zimmermann wanted to capture what she saw in Nancy Wake as a compelling combination of femininity, strength, skillfulness, and bravery. The pieces did so by harnessing an intentional and refreshingly straightforward juxtaposition of feminine dresses and tough leather outerwear. Accessories nodded to the classic French aesthetic and a clever-spy archetype with berets, scarves, and hooded anoraks. Bomber jackets, extra-wide waist belts, and metallic leather boots brought the toughness; while Zimmermann’s signature lacy boho dresses honored the delicate femininity.

VIVE LA FRANCE

Because, obvi, berets and lacy black and white tie blouses.

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

There’s something about oversize trench coats and supple leather jumpsuits that whispers, stealth.  

YEAH, I’M A GIRL, AND I’LL TOTALLY SQUASH YOU

Be forewarned, boys. Pretty doesn’t mean meek.