From helping her dad in his photography studio to creating accessories which featured on the runway of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia, Zoe Gleitzman has come a long way. Photo courtesy of Zoe Gleitzman.
With a background in industrial design, Zoe Gleitzman’s passion for jewellery design developed over the span of a decade. Zoe got her first taste of jewellery design when she took on work experience with Dinosaur Designs. Soon after, she landed her first job with costume jewellery designer, Sarina Suriano. She then went on to study small business management before launching ZOWIE Accessories in January 2012.
“I’m lucky to have found my passion and have an avenue to express my creative vision every day,” said Zoe, the founder and designer of ZOWIE Accessories.
“I am my own boss and I can be truly creative.”
Despite ZOWIE Accesories’ debut collection being released in early 2012, Zoe has already enjoyed much success which she credits to her business mentor, “I also had the support of a business mentor, which really helped me get things off the ground,” Zoe explained.
Photo courtesy of Zoe Gleitzman.
Her African tribal-inspired necklaces were used to accessorise outfits by Talulah in Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia, with her designs featuring in Cosmopolitan magazine as a crowd favourite. She was also one of the upcoming designers chosen in the Powerhouse Museum’s annual market Young Blood: Designers.
“Watching my pieces come down the runway, accessorising the Talulah Spring/Summer 12/13 show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week has been the highlight of my entire career to date. I felt extremely humbled as I had only launched ZOWIE four months prior.
ZOWIE Accessories are unique and draws influences from different cultures across the world. In five words, she describes her designs as “Tribal Luxe, and handmade in Australia.” Zoe’s favourite pieces are the KASAI Necklace in Raspberry Tangerine and the KASAI Necklace in Azure, which she loves wearing all together.
According to the designer, being the founder and creative force behind ZOWIE Accessories also has it downsides. She explains how there never seems to be enough hours in the day, especially because of how young her brand is. This means she often works six to seven days a week. However, her lack of time is not a barrier for Zoe.
“I don’t mind it, because I love what I do. Launching my label is the best job I’ve ever had.”
Her advice to anyone who wants to start their own business is to make sure they are ready. She also warns of the sacrifices and long hours they will have to work.
“Making sure you prepare yourself with the knowledge and tools to run a business is key, take your time to prepare a business plan – and follow it.” – Daisy Chein
Photos below from ZOWIE Accessories website.
About the author
