Findlay Fashion Sense Acknowledged
Jun 11th, 2008 | By admin | Category: FashionShe’s the woman behind New Zealand’s most iconic fashion label, but Elisabeth Findlay doesn’t let the hype go to her head.
With her red lipstick, jet black hair and trademark black outfit, she looks every bit the fashionista who, along with husband Neville, created Zambesi.
After 29 years designing clothes for Kiwi men and women, the Parnell residents have been made Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to business and fashion.
Now, they say, there is more respect for New Zealand designers in Australia, and Kiwi music, film, wine and fashion have all made their mark.
Elisabeth says the award recognises the hard work put in by staff, family and friends, and is something to be shared by everyone.
“I had strange feelings about it, for getting a pat on the back for something I love doing,” she says.
And the secret to Zambesi’s longevity, she says, has been consistency in their look, having a solid foundation, being prepared and patient, and setting a high standard.
“The core of our business is New Zealand and Australia and the clientele. It’s a non realist label. The important people are the customers. We’ve had lots of celebrities wearing our clothes, but we don’t ever push it,” Neville says.
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