Zimmermann vs Alémais: Two Sydney Print Labels Compared

Zimmermann and Alémais are both Sydney labels known for prints, but they suit different wardrobes. Zimmermann, founded in 1991 by sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann, is romantic and polished: lace, structured bodices and floral prints made for weddings and evening. Alémais, founded by designer Lesleigh Jermanus, who previously held senior design roles at Zimmermann, is looser and more artistic, with original prints, embroidery, patchwork and relaxed cuts. Choose Zimmermann for occasion dressing and Alémais for prints you wear every day.

Two Sydney labels with a shared history

The link between the brands is real. Before launching Alémais, Lesleigh Jermanus held senior design roles at Zimmermann and at Marcs, and she studied fine arts, which shows in the way Alémais treats print as artwork. Alémais describes itself as the creative expression of an Australian designer with more than 20 years in the industry, working with artists and craftspeople internationally. For the full Alémais story, read our Alémais history, and for Zimmermann’s, our Zimmermann history.

Zimmermann is the older and much larger business. Alémais is younger, smaller and more focused, which is part of its appeal for anyone who wants a print fewer people will be wearing.

Aesthetic: polished romance against relaxed artistry

Zimmermann dresses are built to impress. Waists are defined, bodices are often structured, and sleeves and skirts carry volume. The Clash Billow Maxi Dress and the Echo Lantern Dress show the house shape: fitted at the top, full below. It is a look that works in photographs and at events.

Alémais is looser and more personal. Shirts are oversized, dresses fall from the shoulder or tie at the waist, and the effect is closer to a collector’s wardrobe than a party dress. The Lacey Silk Shirtdress and the Odie Embroidered Shirtdress are typical: easy shapes in prints or embroidery that do the talking. The Josie Bodice Midi Dress is the more fitted Alémais option for those who want a bit of both.

Prints and fabrics

Both labels are print houses, but the prints differ. Zimmermann favours florals, paisleys and polka dots, often pastel and often printed on lace-trimmed silk, linen or cotton. Alémais designs its own original prints, alongside patchwork and embroidery, and describes its fabric approach as a mix of low-impact textiles with a focus on plant-based fibres.

In practice, Zimmermann’s Echo Embroidered Blouse and Fairlight Denim Lace Dress show its love of lace and trim, while Alémais’s Giddy Embroidered Midi Dress and Rosette Silk Midi Dress lean on embroidery and printed silk. If silk matters most to you, our Alémais silk guide covers the Alémais side in detail, and our Zimmermann floral dresses edit covers Zimmermann’s prints.

Occasions: which brand for which event

Weddings and black tie

Zimmermann is the stronger choice for formal events. Its lace gowns and structured dresses, such as the Ascent Gown, are designed for evening. Alémais does make evening wear, and pieces like the Earle Embellished Gown, the Bodie Jacquard Gown and the Maxwell Gown are a good alternative if you want something less expected. See our Zimmermann gowns guide and best Alémais gowns.

Parties

Both work. Zimmermann’s Clash Ribbon Mini Dress is a classic party mini; Alémais’s Ellie Sequin Mini Dress uses sequins for a bolder evening look.

Everyday and travel

Alémais wins for daily wear. A printed silk shirt like the Rosette Silk Shirt with the Nanci Silk Pant is easier to wear on a weekday than most Zimmermann dresses. On the Zimmermann side, separates like the Clash Linen Belted Blazer bring the brand into daily dressing; our Zimmermann tops, skirts and sets guide has more.

Sizing compared

The two brands size differently. Zimmermann uses its own numeric scale from 0P to 4, where a 0 is an AU and UK 8 and a US 4, and a 2 is a UK 12 and a US 8. Our Zimmermann size guide has the full chart and recommends the larger size on fitted bodices if you are between two.

Alémais labels in AU and UK numbers from 4 to 16, with the US size printed alongside, so an AU 8 is a US 4. Many Alémais pieces are cut oversized or relaxed by design, and the brand recommends your usual size, as our Alémais size guide explains. In short, a Zimmermann 0 and an Alémais 8 are the same nominal size, but the Alémais piece will usually feel roomier.

Who each brand suits

• Choose Zimmermann if you dress for events, love lace and structure, want a recognisable label, or need a wedding guest or bridal look. Start with the best Zimmermann dresses.
• Choose Alémais if you prefer relaxed shapes, want artistic prints, care about fibre choices, or want something less widely worn. Start with the best Alémais dresses.

If you are searching for brands like Zimmermann, Alémais is one of the closest in spirit, and our brands like Zimmermann and brands like Alémais guides name others. For more head-to-heads, see Zimmermann vs Aje and Aje vs Alémais. Shop the full Zimmermann and Alémais collections on Coveti, or explore more Australian fashion brands.

Zimmermann and Alémais around the world

Australia

Both labels are from Sydney and are best known at home. In Australia, Zimmermann is the default for spring racing and summer weddings, while Alémais has a following for weekend and holiday dressing. Seasons are reversed, so northern autumn collections arrive in the Australian spring.

United States

The US is where Zimmermann gets the most search interest of any country, slightly ahead of Australia. Alémais is also searched almost as much in the US as at home. Remember that both brands’ US sizes sit four below the AU and UK number.

United Kingdom

In the UK, Zimmermann is a fixture at summer weddings and Ascot, while Alémais suits the relaxed summer wardrobe. AU and UK sizes match number for number for both brands.

Germany and Europe

Zimmermann has strong demand in Germany, while Alémais reaches European shoppers mainly through multi-brand retailers. On Zimmermann’s own chart a 1 is an EU 36; Alémais’s chart gives AU 10 as EU 38, so compare each brand’s table rather than assuming one conversion.

Zimmermann vs Alémais: common questions

Did the founder of Alémais work at Zimmermann?

Yes. Lesleigh Jermanus held senior design roles at Zimmermann, and at Marcs, before launching Alémais in Sydney.

Which brand has more evening wear, Zimmermann or Alémais?

Zimmermann has the larger evening range, with lace, bandeau and draped gowns every season. Alémais makes fewer gowns, usually embellished or jacquard, which suit a less formal evening.

Which is better for a wedding guest outfit?

Zimmermann generally, because its lace and structured dresses are designed for events. Alémais suits a relaxed or daytime wedding where a printed silk dress feels right.

Do Zimmermann and Alémais fit the same?

No. Zimmermann uses a 0 to 4 scale with closer-fitting bodices, while Alémais uses AU and UK numbers and many pieces are cut oversized or relaxed.

Is Alémais a good alternative to Zimmermann?

Yes, if you like prints but prefer looser shapes and a less widely worn label. Alémais shares Zimmermann’s love of print but treats it more like artwork.

Are Zimmermann and Alémais both Australian?

Yes. Both are based in Sydney, Australia.