NINA Z
February 18, 2012
In 2009, traditional Swedish clogs became cool again through the edgy and authentic downtown brand NINA Z. What started as a ‘Brooklyn girl’ thing has now become an ‘Every girl’ thing as girls across the world are clamoring to get their hands on a pair of clogs made deep in the forests of Sweden.
Luckily, it’s quite easy to snatch up a pair of Nina’s luxuriously soft leather clogs or boots. Miss Nina herself will personally outfit your feet at the Brooklyn Flea on Saturdays and Sundays, you can shop one of the many stockists or shop directly from the NINA Z website whenever your heart desires.
The Swede Beat got a chance to sit down with Nina Ziefert before she took off to Sweden to visit the factory and develop new styles for spring. Take a peak into the life of this undeniably foxy fashionista.
Where are you from?
Stockholm, Sweden
How long have you lived in NYC?
Since 1998. 14 years.
When did you start NINA Z?
I had my first production run in Spring/Summer 2009, but the brand had been in the works at least a year prior to that.
How did you come up with the idea?
It was void. Void of clogs in the American (NYC) market.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
To me life is work and work is life. So my inspiration comes from friends, family and everyday life.
Who is the NINA Z girl?
She is a girl/woman who appreciates raw design and serious craftsmanship. She is into fashion, but not ruled by it. She doesn’t follow trends, but sets them by wearing an unexpected mix of clothes and accessories based upon her own sense of style rather than what’s hot this season.
What’s your best selling clog?
For spring-summer the NINA sandal and for fall-winter the CAMILLA boot.
What are your plans for the future of NINA Z?
Collaborations. In Spring 2012 we are doing a dope clog collaboration with CARDIGAN, which feels really exciting.
What is your daily uniform?
I always wear clogs and my gold ear-cuff never comes off. Otherwise my daily uniform changes from day to day depending on mood, weather and location in the world.
What trends are you excited about for Spring?
Global prints and bright colors because it’s an unexpected mix with a Swedish clog. I myself am feeling very goth and ready to rock some burgundy, black and dark marine.
What songs do you have on repeat right now?
ROBYN – Call your girlfriend, BOB MARLEY – Redemption Song
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
An uncountable collection of NINA Z clogs, some left over Manolo’s from the 90’s and a pair of NIKE Airs.
If you had to wear one piece of clothing every day, what would it be?
Clogs
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Right where I am at. Crown Heights, Brooklyn. And wouldn’t mind a little pad in Rio de Janeiro, as well when the winter gets too bad in NYC.
Describe Sweden in one word.
Birthplace
Describe NYC in one word.
Home
By Laura Housgard
Published by: The Swede Beat
