Rozanne Immerman is a multi-award-winning fashion designer from Durban and the owner of a vibrant boutique in The Zone in Rosebank called Rozanne and Pushkin. Among other South African and international brands and accessories, the store also stocks Rozanne’s own clothing design collection called RoRo.
YN: How did your business start?
Rozanne: I started my business in 2005. I was 21 when I won the Durban Fashion Experience – a store at Gateway in Umhlanga, fully shop-fitted and rent-free for a year. I was at that stage still completing my final year of BA Fashion Design and had no business experience or knowledge.
YN: Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
Rozanne: In 2008, I decided to move to Johannesburg to open my second store. My brother had recommended a couple of shopping centres, as he lives up here, and I really like the vibrant energy and eclectic mix of people in Rosebank.
YN: How did you find your premises?
Rozanne: We set up a meeting with Old Mutual Property to discuss the possibilities, and the rest is history.
YN: Why are the premises ideally suited to your business?
Rozanne: I love the energy in Rosebank – it’s not pretentious, it’s so alive and colourful. Our shoppers are awesome – schoolgirls, trendy moms, international tourists and so many people in the creative industry. The type of shopper that I attract is really important to me as I use them – their personal style, taste and wants – as inspiration for my designs.
YN: Who are your neighbours?
Rozanne: I am situated in the Ocean Basket courtyard.
YN: How many people go through your store each day?
Rozanne: It varies. Sometimes we are busier in the week; other times the weekends pump.
YN: Do you have any expansion plans?
Rozanne: Nope, I’ve expanded before, but having my passion and energy focused on one place really works for me. I prefer to have one home base and then be involved in select pop-up opportunities.
YN: Do you operate online as well?
Rozanne: Not yet, but watch this space – we’ll be online by June. Follow our fashion on our Instagram (@rozanneandpushkin) and our Facebook page
YN: What’s your most popular item?
Rozanne: I would have to say it’s the Shelley Dress from my RoRo collection – it’s so easy to wear and comfortable and can easily be dressed up or down. It comes in unique prints as well as basic plains and has a tie which can be tied at the waist for a more tailored look, or in the hip creating a ’20s feel. It’s super-flattering and suits most body types, which is why I think it’s such a winning style.
See for yourself:
011 880 0209
Words: Georgina Guedes
Images: Supplied
