I had the pleasure to first cross paths with La Ferme Bergamote’s founder, Yasmin Hediger at Zurich’s famous Christmas Market back in November. It was the opening afternoon of the season and a day with swirling biting wind and the chatter of excitement as vendors welcomed passers by. There was nothing but warmth radiating from Yasmin’s twinkling wooden cabin. Her beautiful children’s collection in the softest merino and her energy for her designs pulled me in straight away. My son Tommy was one at the time and I was intrigued that you could buy items for a baby that would last not just months, but years. Yasmin challenges the idea of fast fashion and designs each piece with meaning and utmost care. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get a peek into her entrepreneurial mindset, how her grandmother continually shapes her creative path and her passion to support women.
Tell me a bit about La Ferme Bergamote. How did you get started in the world of slow fashion and design?
Before launching La Ferme Bergamote, I had the opportunity to experience both ends of the fashion spectrum—working for one of Paris’ most iconic luxury houses and also for one of the largest fast fashion companies in the world. These contrasting environments gave me a deep understanding of how the fashion industry operates, and over time, I started to feel a growing disconnect between my values and the speed-driven nature of the business.
Becoming a mother changed everything for me. Suddenly, I was dressing this tiny human who grew so fast that I felt like I was constantly replacing clothes that barely had time to be worn and loved. That sparked something in me. I started designing baby garments that could grow with the child—pieces that were not only beautiful and comfortable but made to last. It was the start of what would become La Ferme Bergamote: a brand rooted in slow fashion, thoughtful design, and deep personal meaning.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
A lot of my inspiration comes from my son and the rhythms of our daily life. I observe which pieces we reach for again and again—those go-to essentials that feel good, are easy to wear, and truly serve us. Then I think about how I can design them so they last longer, adapt better, and still feel special.
I’m also incredibly inspired by other small, independent brands. I love the intimacy and soul that comes through when you know the story behind the creator. That personal connection is something I missed in the local Zurich market. It pushed me to create something that not only filled that gap but also carried the essence of community and authenticity.
You wear many hats—fashion designer, illustrator, author, podcaster, entrepreneur. Do you have a favourite and why?
It’s difficult to choose because each creative outlet speaks to a different part of me, and they’ve all evolved naturally out of my passions. But if I had to pick one, fashion design is where my heart truly lies. It’s the medium where I feel most free and connected to my roots.
There’s something incredibly special about the creative process, especially when I share it with my grandmother. She’s the one who taught me how to sew and knit when I was young, and she has always supported my artistic path. In fact, the name “Bergamote” comes from the scent of her perfume—a scent that is forever in my memory. We even designed my wedding dress together. Her feedback still means the world to me, and sharing this passion with her is one of my greatest joys.
Everyone wants to give a gift that’s truly loved. What are your top picks for women and babies from your collection?
The hero piece in my collection—and the ultimate gift—is the wrap suit that fits from 3 months to 2 years. It’s such a practical and meaningful gift because it’s not just something that looks cute in a photo. It becomes part of a child’s life, part of their memories.
I’ve had so many clients and friends who’ve gifted it and then reached out to me months later saying, “Yasmin, they’re still wearing it! The baby is almost two!” Moments like that make my heart burst. That’s what slow fashion is about—creating pieces that live a long, loved life. For women, I also love versatile staples that you can wear on a casual day or dress up effortlessly—things that make you feel comfortable and powerful at the same time.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting their own business?
I always say—just start. It might sound cliché, but it’s true. Don’t wait until everything is perfect, or until the idea feels “good enough.” For years, I dreamed of starting my own business, but I kept pushing it off, doubting my ideas and worrying too much about what others were doing.
But when the idea for La Ferme Bergamote came to me, it felt different. I just knew. There was no hesitation—only this fire inside me that said, This is it. When something lights you up and keeps you awake at night with excitement, you owe it to yourself to follow that feeling. You don’t need a master plan—you just need to begin. The rest unfolds.
I love your ethos of ‘Women Support Women’ and your Mom Club. Tell us more—how can people get involved?
La Ferme Bergamote has brought so many incredible women into my life—smart, courageous, funny women navigating motherhood, careers, and creativity. The Mom Club grew naturally from these relationships. It wasn’t a strategic idea; it was more like, “Why don’t we just create a space where we can talk, laugh, share, and support each other?”
We now have a WhatsApp group where moms can exchange thoughts, recommendations, or just vent on a tough day. Anyone interested can message me on Instagram for the link. I also announce our meet-ups there—they’re open, relaxed, and full of good energy. It’s about honest conversations, lifting each other up, and never feeling like you’re doing this alone.
If you could dress one style icon, artist, or creative—past or present—who would it be and why?
What a beautiful question. I’ve never really idolized celebrities—I’ve always looked up to the women around me who are building their dreams, raising their children, staying true to themselves. My biggest inspiration has always been my grandmother. She is entrepreneurial, wise, and endlessly creative. Watching her live with such purpose has shaped me in so many ways.
That said, if I had to choose someone well-known, it would probably be Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. I read her biography as a teenager and was completely captivated by her boldness and innovation. She redefined femininity in fashion and followed her vision, even when it went against the grain. She’s the reason I started sketching designs at 12 years old—her story planted the seed.
How do you manage the balance between personal life and the demands of being a business owner?
I think the idea of balance is a bit of a myth—at least for me. My personal and professional lives are so closely intertwined that there’s no real boundary. But I love that. My business is my passion project, my creative outlet, and my purpose. It doesn’t feel like a job—it feels like an extension of who I am.
My son is often part of what I do. We pack orders together and take them to the post office. We draw and design side by side. I’ll play a podcast episode and get his honest little feedback. These moments make the journey richer, not harder. It’s not about separating work and life—it’s about blending them in a way that feels fulfilling and sustainable.
If someone only had 24 hours in Zurich, what should they do?
I’d start the day with a refreshing swim at Badi Tiefenbrunnen—it’s such a serene, beautiful place, especially in the morning light. Then I’d head to Monocle for coffee, soak in the stylish atmosphere, and enjoy the slower pace of the city. And for something sweet, you must stop at Babu’s for a slice of cake. It’s cozy, delicious, and very Zurich.
What are your future plans and dreams for La Ferme Bergamote?
I have so many dreams for La Ferme Bergamote. One of my guiding principles is: think big. I never wanted to create just one product or one category. I see the brand growing into a full lifestyle universe that supports families through every stage.
Right now, I’m building a matching mom-and-baby collection, which I think is just the cutest thing ever. I’d also love to expand the publishing side—more children’s books. I want the brand to be a space where creativity, community, and sustainability meet in a way that feels meaningful. There’s so much still to come, and I’m incredibly excited for the future.
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Yasmin’s view of life brings home to me how following your passion and purpose leads to nothing but happiness and satisfaction. Her commitment to personal authenticity and slow fashion is something I truly admire. Her drive for inclusivity and and to create beautiful things that last is leaving a legacy and what can be bigger in life than this?
Ready to browse and buy – let me tell you, you’re in for a treat as La Ferme Bergamote’s linen collection has just launched. Perfect for sunny days!
Catch up on the latest news on Instagram: la.ferme.bergamote
Listen to children’s stories inspired by Yasmin’s childhood: Farm Stories podcast
*All imagery subject to copyright and courtesy of Yasmin Hediger.