Jasminka Zaneta – From Dream to Fashion Label
Since graduating from Santa Maria College in 2010, Jasminka Zaneta has transformed her passion for fashion into a thriving career, creating a unique brand that reflects her vibrant personality and cultural heritage. Driven by a lifelong dream, she established her label, Zanetta, to bring her artistic vision to life. In this interview, Jasminka shares the journey that led her to fashion design, the challenges she’s overcome, and how she keeps her creative fire burning in a fast-paced industry.
Can you tell us about your journey since graduating from Santa Maria College in 2010 and what led you to start Zanetta?
After graduating from Santa Maria, I pursued fashion design at TAFE for four years. After completing my Associate Degree in Fashion & Textile Design, I began exploring my options. I managed a retail store in Claremont, which offered valuable insights into the fashion industry, and I was able to do a placement in their head office design team, gaining firsthand experience. From a young age, I knew I wanted my own label – I even wrote myself a letter for my time capsule in Year 7, dreaming about one day creating beautiful designs under my own brand. After three years of working for someone else’s label, I decided it was finally time to bring that dream to life.
How does Zanetta reflect your personal style and vision?
My style is vibrant and textile-focused, always with an emphasis on colour. I create unique, lively pieces that I feel embody my personality. Inspiration comes from places I’ve visited and my cultural background. While it’s essential to stay updated on trends, I also think it’s important to bring something distinctive to the mix.
What were some challenges you faced while starting your own business, and how did you overcome them?
The fashion industry can be pretty cutthroat. One of my biggest challenges was finding guidance, as not everyone is open to sharing their knowledge. TAFE covered a lot, but there were still industry details I needed to figure out. I had to keep asking questions and knocking on doors, determined not to give up. I eventually found supportive people willing to help, which was invaluable in navigating this complex industry.
Did your time at Santa Maria College help shape your career path, and if so, how?
Absolutely! This question brings back memories of Mrs Mara and Mrs Withers. Mrs Mara, my Year 7 teacher, was the first to recognise my artistic abilities and encourage me. She valued the arts and told me I could make a career out of my passion if I worked hard – it was the first time I felt truly seen. Then, in high school, Mrs Withers, my art teacher, was instrumental in supporting my vision. She even assigned a runway project and believed I could become a fashion designer, which reinforced my aspirations.
What do you enjoy most about working in the fashion industry, and how do you stay motivated in such a fast-paced environment?
I love creating wearable art. There’s nothing quite like seeing a concept transform from an idea into a functional piece that people wear and enjoy. It keeps me motivated to remember this has always been my dream, and I’m fortunate to be living it.
When you’re not busy running Zanetta, what do you enjoy doing in your downtime?
Spending time with my family, husband, and close friends is what I value most. As I get older, I appreciate those connections even more. A relaxing night with a good movie is my favourite way to unwind.
What advice would you give to current students who aspire to follow in your entrepreneurial footsteps?
With dedication and commitment, you can achieve your goals. Believe in the possibility, and it will happen! Surround yourself with people who genuinely support your dreams. Remember to celebrate even the small wins – in this industry, they’re often hard-earned, so be kind to yourself along the way.
What’s next for you and Zanetta? Do you have any upcoming projects or plans you’re excited about?
I’m thrilled to have my collection in several Perth stores now, which was always a big goal for me. My latest collection, inspired by my Croatian heritage, reflects the beauty of the landscapes, coastlines, and traditions from where my parents were born. You can find it at Mara Collective, Insurge Clothing, The Pink, and Goldilocks Boutique, as well as on our website, where the full collection is available.
Jasminka’s journey from a student with big dreams to a designer with her own label is an inspiring reminder of the power of perseverance and passion. Through Zanetta, she brings her distinctive style to life, creating pieces that resonate with her personal story and heritage. For current students and aspiring designers, her advice is clear: stay determined, embrace every small success, and never lose sight of the vision that drives you. With new collections inspired by her Croatian roots and a growing presence in Perth’s fashion scene, Jasminka’s journey is only just beginning.
- AlumniFashion, AlumniSpotlight, Fashion, FashionDesign, FashionLabel, Featured, Zanetta
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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