Our Story
Meaning..
Ziji is a Tibetan word meaning radiance, brilliance, and confidence. It's a reminder of our innate fire - the kind that shines from the inside out. At Ziji, this word has always symbolised our belief in self-expression, boldness, and showing up as our truest selves.
How it all began..
The label emerged after I (Rikki-lee), experienced my first Rainbow Serpent Festival in Melbourne. I was both awe-struck and inspired by this adult playground of radical expression and deep human connection. I was soon attending any ‘bush doof’ I could get to (and creating costumes with any and every leopard print item I could get my paws on), chasing that feeling of liberation across festival fields. What began as a personal passion quickly become something more.
~ Resident Leopard Rikki-lee activated.
The Spark..
My first product ~ the Ziji Belt Bag ~ was created in response to my own need for the perfect hands-free festival bag. I couldn't find a bumbag that was both feminine + sleek and could also fit my essentials, so I set about creating my own (when on holidays in Bali).
~ The first ever Ziji Belt Bag - The Buckled Belt Bag
From there, our high quality sparkly festival wear followed when I found incredible bead work in Bali - insert hand-sequinned hot pants, statement kimonos, and dazzling co-ords that helped people feel seen, sexy, and free.
~ The first Ziji Hot Pants were tried and tested by Rikki-lee at Rainbow Serpent Festival '19.
The Evolution..
But over time, something shifted. I evolved, and naturally - Ziji needed to evolve too.
The girl who once danced for days in sequins under the stars was now craving something else: depth, comfort, edge, intention. It became clear that Ziji was no longer just about festival costumes - it was about identity. Expression. Rebirth.
After over 9 months of design trials, sample rounds, and deep creative exploration, our first full streetwear-inspired range was born. This collection still holds the soul of Ziji - bold, feminine, and expressive - but channels it through pieces designed for real life: powerful flares, elevated basics, and looks that match your evolution.
We’ve moved our main garment production to a trusted small factory in China, allowing us to scale without compromising quality. We still work closely with our artisan leather team in Bali for our signature handmade leather bags - pieces that continue to turn heads and free up your dance floor limbs.
Why I do this...
Ziji has always been a reflection of the people who wear it. This label was never just about outfits - it’s about energy. About dressing in a way that makes you feel more you. Whether you're stepping into a new version of yourself, or simply getting dressed to feel powerful again, we’re here for it.
My promise...
We’re still slow-made. Still high quality. Still rooted in freedom and self-expression.
Only now, it’s grown up a little.
From sequins to stretch mesh, from bush doofs to city streets - Ziji is your companion in reinvention.
Whether you’ve been with us since day one, or you’re just discovering us now - thank you.
I'm so glad you’re here.
With love,
Rikki-lee x
