New To Zoo: Jil Sander

This season sees the introduction of the legendary Jil Sander label into our illustrious designer portfolio. Ever since the brand's creation in 1968, Jil Sander has been the pioneer and recognised gold standard for luxury minimalism in the industry. Disillusioned by the perceived impracticality of fashion at the time, Sander herself has always promoted a decidedly ‘no frills’ approach to fashion design with full, hearty materials, neutral colours and clean-cut lines becoming hallmarks of the label’s aesthetic. It’s a style that boldly rebels against the omnipresent trends of excess in luxury fashion and champions a more nuanced ‘less is more’ philosophy.

Outfit: Black Hooded Shirt, Beige Horoscope Graphic T-Shirt, Black Tailored Trousers, Black High Top Trainers

Jil Sander's first exposure to the industry came about via her tenure as a fashion editor at German magazine Petra. It gave her the experience (and confidence) to open her open boutique and subsequently launch her namesake label in 1968. She eventually won plaudits for her inspired take on minimalism and by the late ‘80s, her eponymous brand had become something of a household name, even going so far as to be listed on the Frankfurt stock exchange. At this point in time, Jil Sander had become widely recognised for its striking designs; stripped-down suits and overcoats that embraced the empowering masculine elegance in women, whilst simultaneously maintaining an air of grace and femininity. The label positioned itself at the intersection of professionalism and chicness and was a primary driving force behind the change in attitude towards women’s fashion in the ‘80s and ‘90s.

Outfit: Plus Logo Natural White Hoodie, Black Tailored Trousers, Black High Top Trainers

The story of the label from then until now has been characterised by unceremonious departures and spectacular comebacks from Sander herself, with Belgian designer Raf Simons’ 7-year reign as the brand's creative director being one of the most notable eras of success not involving the original founder. But whilst the helm of the ship may have changed hands several times over the course of the label’s history, the trajectory has remained the same, with Sander’s original design values and open-mindedness towards technological innovation continuing to serve as the bedrock for any and all collections baring her name.

Outfit: Plus Brown Tie Dye Hoodie, Black Tailored Trousers, Black Leather Trainers


That foundation has allowed for the successful launch of the menswear line in 1997, the hugely popular +J Uniqlo collections and the conceptual Jil Sander+ story, introduced by current creative directors Luke and Lucie Meier.