The Sydney Theatre Company’s modern take on the classic tale coincides with the 50th anniversary of Peter Weir’s film, inspiring Nicky Zimmermann’s Fall 2025 fashion collection.
The Sydney Theatre Company’s latest production, “Picnic at Hanging Rock,” has made waves with its modern reinterpretation of a classic tale. This adaptation of Joan Lindsay’s 1967 novel, penned by Tom Wright and directed by Ian Michael, takes a contemporary stance by dressing its cast in current school uniforms rather than traditional period clothing, with the exception of a single long white Victorian-style dress.
The production coincides with the 50th anniversary of Peter Weir’s iconic film that centers on the mysterious disappearance of three schoolgirls and their teacher at Victoria’s Mount Macedon on Valentine’s Day in 1900. The connection between the play and the film is further reflected in the Fall 2025 collection titled “Hypnotic” by designer Nicky Zimmermann. During an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Australia, Zimmermann articulated her creative process, noting, “There’s little subtle moments that we’ve taken from the film — like our Victoriana has dresses with hand-smocking — but it’s not overt.”
Zimmermann’s collection debuted at the Petit Palais, situated just off the Champs Élysées, and prominently featured lace in various forms. The show opened with a romantic high-necked ecru lace mini dress, leading into a progression of designs that transitioned from Victorian elegance to elements inspired by the Australian bush, utilizing hues of tan and olive along with snake prints. “We wanted to still obviously keep it upbeat, but it’s such a haunting and beautiful and unsolved [story],” Zimmermann continued, reflecting on how the collection drew from her childhood experience watching the film.
Melding modern fashion with Victorian techniques, the collection included standout pieces like a corseted denim dress with a crinoline skirt and dresses adorned with prints of handwritten notes and Valentine’s Day cards. The designs not only paid tribute to the aesthetics of the film but also highlighted the growing influence of Zimmermann’s brand, which has seen significant expansion, boasting over 60 boutiques worldwide and a valuation of USD 1 billion as of August 2023.
The tailoring in the collection referenced traditional schoolgirl uniforms, while the outerwear showcased leather bomber jackets with fur trims. In a further nod to the film, one day look echoed the riding attire worn by the search party looking for the missing girls. The diversity of the collection included intricate organzas, draped velvet, and accessories that highlighted the brand’s commitment to innovation.
In an announcement demonstrating her brand’s robust growth, Zimmermann revealed plans to establish a full Paris atelier and office, having recently acquired an entire building in the Marais district. “I just did a site visit. It was supposed to be open, it’s two weeks late. But I’m back in April, so I’ll be working from there then,” she indicated.
Reflecting on the evolution of her brand, Zimmermann remarked on the journey from its beginnings in 1991, identifying it as a significant leap from their initial setup in a small Paddington market. Her comments encapsulated the impressive trajectory of Zimmermann’s fashion house as it continues to thrive and innovate within the global landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services
