Photos courtesy of Dannika Zen – draped leather and lambs fur jacket
When I spotted pictures of Dannika Zen’s work on DIRTYFLAWS, I was instantly entranced – not only did the aesthetic perfectly align with my own, but the designer lives in my city (amazing to think that I should discover homegrown talent via a blog based halfway around the world). Curious to know more, I emailed Dannika and we spoke about her eponymous label.
At 24 years old, Dannika Zen has a wealth of experience to her name – having completed an Advanced Diploma of Design at East Sydney (now The Fashion Design Studio), several pattern-making courses and internships with German labels Macqua and Unrath & Strano. Her work is considered; mature – there is a quiet poise to it that suggests a much more established label (in fact, it was only started in February this year). Working primarily with leather and fur, the collection includes jackets with shearling collars, bohemian vests and neatly tailored blazers.
“I like classic garments and appreciate good menswear,” explained Zen, and the masculine influence is evident in her work – simplicity, a focus on workmanship, a certain timelessness. With plans to expand into jersey, cotton and knitwear in the same classic aesthetic, Zen’s label promises to evolve into something deeply collectable.
Here are some snippets from our conversation:
What is your studio like? I currently go between 2 studios, my apartment and the leather workshop. I guess its like most what creative spaces are like – organised chaos! There are pens hanging from the ceiling.
What’s your favourite outfit at the moment? At the moment, I like wearing vintage tees inside out with one of the Moto jackets or classic blazer over the top. I love anything faded or washed out, you can’t exactly replicate those vintage colours.
What are you currently working on? A very feminine skirt and developing some jersey basics.
When you’re not working, where do you like to spend your time? In front of the piano, but mostly in bed catching up on sleep.
Follow Dannika’s blog for a window into her inspiration and glimpses of her design process.
DO WANT THIS JACKET :’(
that jacket is lovely – the texture interplay between the leather and fur is really interesting. i’ll have to keep an eye out for her cotton wear. thanks for sharing!
I was also amazed that I’ve never heard about Dannika Zen before reading about her work on dirtyflaws. Nice interview!
lovely! & interviews are awesome, thanks for sharing. i should email-harass more people/designers/etc that i like!
great discovery :)
i’m liking the look!
how much??!! love it
Laura – at this stage, you can only purchase by contacting Dannika herself. Hit her up at info@dannikazen.com for pricing/shipping/all other inquiries!
I’ve just found your site and I love what I’m seeing