Ellis Rowan and Zimmermann at the National Library of Australia

You know those moments that send you weak at the knees, quite literally. When little peeps of glee squeak out without even thinking? When you want to melt and get an overwhelming need to lie down on the floor?

That.

A short while ago, Zimmermann released their 2021 Wild Botanica Spring Collection and you may have noticed my endless IG Stories as I fell about in rapture over one of the most stunning collections I’ve ever had the privilege to lay eyes on. But it wasn’t until just recently that I learned the collection was inspired by another great love of mine - Ellis Rowan.

Ellis was one of Australia’s earliest botanical artists. Born in 1848, she was a remarkable woman for her time. A naturalist, artist and intrepid traveller, she had no formal art training yet exhibited all over the world - her paintings at once fastidiously artistic yet exquisitely artistic and feminine. She even trekked Papua New Guinea twice, using local guides and finding an immense variety of birds and insects.

Over 900 of Ellis Rowan’s paintings are held at the National Library of Australia and now, one of my favourite designers is showing a small collection of gowns inspired by her work. I visited today and I could not even contain my overwhelm. Can you even believe the beauty.

Fashion in the Foyer will end 11 March, so get thee there if you can! See more here. And also don't miss Birds of Paradise: Ellis Rowan in New Guinea exhibition (ends 28 March 2021). Both exhibitions are free, and you can also view the Birds of Paradise online.

(In case you're wondering, the long wattle-inspired gown and the shorter blue and red one next to it would be my faves, along with the white blossom long gown.)