Before joining Barovier&Toso, I had the privilege of leading Operations at Dolce & Gabbana Casa — an extraordinary
experience that deeply shaped my vision of what Italian craftsmanship means today. That journey taught me how heritage can live through constant reinvention — how tradition is not something static, but a living organism that grows, evolves, and dialogues with the present.
When I arrived at Barovier & Toso, I found a company with an unparalleled legacy, and my goal has been to project that legacy into the future — to preserve its soul while expanding its language to speak to contemporary culture.

Andrea, it’s an honor to be at this wonderful PALAZZO with you today. Before joining Barovier & Toso, you led operations at Dolce & Gabbana Casa — a brand synonymous with Italian elegance and creativity. How did that experience shape your vision, and how does it influence the way you now guide a historic house like Barovier & Toso?

Barovier & Toso’s story is the story of Murano itself. It began in 1295, when the Barovier family started working glass on this small island of the Venetian Lagoon. Over the centuries, generation after generation, the family handed down not only techniques but a way of thinking about beauty — a philosophy based on light, emotion, and timeless elegance. 

Barovier & Toso has been crafting glass for over 700 years and it’s known as the oldest glass factory in the world still in operation. Can you tell us the story of how this incredible legacy began and evolved into the company we know today?

When I enter Palazzo Barovier & Toso, I don’t see a showroom — I see a story told in light. To me, this space is the physical translation of Barovier & Toso’s identity: a bridge between centuries, where heritage and innovation coexist in dialogue. The palazzo is housed in a Venetian building from the 1920s, whose original façade has been
carefully preserved in the restoration. In the interior, the architectural interventions by Calvi Brambilla enhance the historical fabric while opening new vistas for emotion and surprise.

Walking through the doors, visitors immediately sense that this is a crafted experience — where every element (from flooring to materials, from scale to light) is orchestrated to magnify the presence of glass and shadow, silence and shine. The palazzo tells a narrative about transformation — how light sculpts space, and how the centuries of Murano glassmaking are alive in every reflection.

We’re here in the Palazzo Barovier & Toso — which feels more like a temple of light than a showroom.
Can you tell us what this space represents for you? What story does it tell visitors who walk through these doors?

I’m naturally conflict-averse but, like many, I too have moments of insecurity. That doesn’t always make things easy. But what drives me is achievement and the desire to prove my worth. Not out of fear, but because success is where I’ve found my confidence. I’ve learned to let my work speak for itself and to surround myself with people who lift each other up. That’s where the real power is.

As a woman in a competitive industry, what challenges have you faced — and how have you navigated them with confidence and clarity?

Women, Community & Collaboration

For me, it all comes down to trust and empowerment. A strong female leader doesn’t micromanage; she surrounds herself with people she believes in and gives them room to thrive. She leads with intuition, clarity and compassion, not ego. It’s about lifting others up, making bold decisions, and staying grounded no matter how high the stakes. Real leadership means being confident enough to listen, humble enough to grow, and brave enough to stand your ground. And let’s be honest—doing it all with grace, grit and a little bit of style doesn’t hurt either.

In your experience, what makes a strong female leader today?

Trust yourself, seriously. You don’t need to be louder, tougher, or someone else entirely to succeed. The real magic happens when you show up as you. Whether you're launching a business, starting fresh or chasing a long-held dream, lean into what makes you you. Don’t wait for permission. Own your space, ask for what you want and surround yourself with people who get it. Confidence doesn’t come first: you build it by showing up anyway. 

What advice would you offer to women in our Dolce Vita community who are preparing to step into their next chapter — whether in business, creativity, or personal growth?

This one is easy: incredibly important. Having strong female mentors has made a huge difference in my journey. There’s something powerful about women supporting women, offering guidance, sharing experiences, and simply being there when it matters most. I’ve been lucky to have women in my corner who believed in me, challenged me and inspired me to grow. That kind of support is not just helpful, it’s essential. And now, I try to pay that forward whenever I can.

How important has a support system — particularly among women — been in your personal and professional journey?

For me, it’s all about movement, connection and a change of scenery. Sports help me reset mentally; I need that physical outlet to stay clear and focused. Dinner with friends is another must. Good food, a glass of wine, real conversation and a lot of laughter always bring me back to center. And of course, travel. Nothing inspires and recharges me quite like exploring new places. It’s my way of staying grounded while still feeding my curiosity and creativity.

With such a dynamic role, how do you find balance and recharge? Do you have any rituals or routines that keep you grounded?

Before joining Barovier&Toso, I had the privilege of leading Operations at Dolce & Gabbana Casa — an extraordinary
experience that deeply shaped my vision of what Italian craftsmanship means today. That journey taught me how heritage can live through constant reinvention — how tradition is not something static, but a living organism that grows, evolves, and dialogues with the present.

When I arrived at Barovier & Toso, I found a company with an unparalleled legacy, and my goal has been to project that legacy into the future — to preserve its soul while expanding its language to speak to contemporary culture.

Andrea, it’s an honor to be at this wonderful PALAZZO with you today. Before joining Barovier & Toso, you led operations at Dolce & Gabbana Casa — a brand synonymous with Italian elegance and creativity. How did that experience shape your vision, and how does it influence the way you now guide a historic house like Barovier & Toso?

I’m part of a generation that’s been encouraged to turn passion into a profession, and I consider myself incredibly lucky to have done just that. I’ve always been drawn to the world of fashion and beauty, and getting to work in an industry where I’m surrounded by creativity, elegance and innovation every day truly feels like a dream. For me, passion is the key: whatever I do, I want to do it wholeheartedly.

As a young woman, what were your early aspirations — and how did those evolve into a career in beauty and luxury?

I spent many years working at Douglas, where I had the privilege of learning from one of the best—former CEO Tina Müller. She’s been an incredible mentor who truly understood my strengths and potential. When the opportunity came up to take over Niche Beauty, she believed in me and offered me the chance. It was a big moment, and I knew I had to say yes. The rest, as they say, is history.

Your career journey is truly inspiring. What did the road to becoming Managing Director of Niche Beauty look like?

Curating a Vision

We follow a first-to-market approach—it’s incredibly important for us to offer exclusive brands that you won’t find everywhere else. We don’t just discover, we also build brands and are especially fond of those with a strong founder story, standout packaging and a clear, compelling identity. Good formulations are also a must. Above all, the brands we choose have to embody luxury and innovation. If there’s heart, vision and something truly special behind it, it’s a fit for Niche Beauty.

Niche Beauty has such a distinct voice and identity. How do you decide which brands or products become part of your curated world?

Over time, my style has become more refined and timeless. Luxury means classic design. Exceptional quality. Something that feels worth the investment. It’s less about labels and more about craftsmanship, longevity and how a product makes you feel.

How has your sense of taste and style evolved over time? What does luxury mean to you today?

Earning the trust of the Douglas board was a key milestone for me. But just as important was building a culture of trust within my own team. I want to be a leader who empowers, inspires and leads by example. Creating a space where people feel valued, supported and motivated to do their best work was, and still is, my top priority.

When stepping into the role of Managing Director, what was most important to you — both strategically and personally?

Women, Community & Collaboration

I like to say that life is never boring around me—and it’s true. I’m lively, spontaneous, full of energy and creativity by design. I thrive in dynamic environments, love being around people and naturally gravitate toward leadership. Not to control, but because I’m passionate, full of vision and genuinely want to uplift and inspire those around me. I feed off the energy of teamwork and collaboration, and yes, I fully believe in shining while helping others do the same.

As a woman in a competitive industry, what challenges have you faced — and how have you navigated them with confidence and clarity?

I’m naturally conflict-averse but, like many, I too have moments of insecurity. That doesn’t always make things easy. But what drives me is achievement and the desire to prove my worth. Not out of fear, but because success is where I’ve found my confidence. I’ve learned to let my work speak for itself and to surround myself with people who lift each other up. That’s where the real power is.

What quality do you believe has most defined your success as a curator and businesswoman in the luxury space?

For me, it all comes down to trust and empowerment. A strong female leader doesn’t micromanage; she surrounds herself with people she believes in and gives them room to thrive. She leads with intuition, clarity and compassion, not ego. It’s about lifting others up, making bold decisions, and staying grounded no matter how high the stakes. Real leadership means being confident enough to listen, humble enough to grow, and brave enough to stand your ground. And let’s be honest—doing it all with grace, grit and a little bit of style doesn’t hurt either.

In your experience, what makes a strong female leader today?

How important has a support system — particularly among women — been in your personal and professional journey?

This one is easy: incredibly important. Having strong female mentors has made a huge difference in my journey. There’s something powerful about women supporting women, offering guidance, sharing experiences, and simply being there when it matters most. I’ve been lucky to have women in my corner who believed in me, challenged me and inspired me to grow. That kind of support is not just helpful, it’s essential. And now, I try to pay that forward whenever I can.

What advice would you offer to women in our Dolce Vita community who are preparing to step into their next chapter — whether in business, creativity, or personal growth?

Trust yourself, seriously. You don’t need to be louder, tougher, or someone else entirely to succeed. The real magic happens when you show up as you. Whether you're launching a business, starting fresh or chasing a long-held dream, lean into what makes you you. Don’t wait for permission. Own your space, ask for what you want and surround yourself with people who get it. Confidence doesn’t come first: you build it by showing up anyway. 

Balance, Beauty & What Lies Ahead

With such a dynamic role, how do you find balance and recharge? Do you have any rituals or routines that keep you grounded?

For me, it’s all about movement, connection and a change of scenery. Sports help me reset mentally; I need that physical outlet to stay clear and focused. Dinner with friends is another must. Good food, a glass of wine, real conversation and a lot of laughter always bring me back to center. And of course, travel. Nothing inspires and recharges me quite like exploring new places. It’s my way of staying grounded while still feeding my curiosity and creativity.

If you could recommend three favorite products to our members — ones you personally love — what would they be?

Not an easy one. Given the nature of my work, I’m lucky to come across brilliant formulations daily. But if I had to narrow it down to just three, here’s what makes the cut:

Augustinus Bader The Cream: A true icon. It delivers that fresh, healthy glow like nothing else.

2787 Genetic Bliss: My go-to fragrance. Unique, bold and completely addictive.

Westman Atelier Super Loaded Tinted Highlighter in Peau de Rosé: The perfect glow in one swipe. It gives that lit-from-within finish I’ll never get tired of.

What continues to inspire and drive you forward — both in life and in your work?

Appreciation and success. Feeling seen and valued for what I bring to the table pushes me to keep going. And success; not just the big wins, but the quiet, personal milestones too — is what fuels me. I love the feeling of building something meaningful, of making an impact. That’s what keeps the fire lit.

        or women who appreciate the rare, the                refined, and the remarkable, Niche Beauty has become a destination like no other — and at the heart of it is Anne Zimmermann. As the brand’s Managing Director, she has created more than a beauty platform; she has built a carefully curated universe where each product is handpicked for its story, quality, and innovation. In this interview, we invite our Dolce Vita Ladies Club readers to get to know the woman behind the vision.

F

Not an easy one. Given the nature of my work, I’m lucky to come across brilliant formulations daily. But if I had to narrow it down to just three, here’s what makes the cut:

Augustinus Bader The Cream: A true icon. It delivers that fresh, healthy glow like nothing else.
2787 Genetic Bliss: My go-to fragrance. Unique, bold and completely addictive.
Westman Atelier Super Loaded Tinted Highlighter in Peau de Rosé: The perfect glow in one swipe. It gives that lit-from-within finish I’ll never get tired of.

If you could recommend three favorite products to our members — ones you personally love — what would they be?

Balance, Beauty & What Lies Ahead

Absolutely: Phlur Vanilla Skin Body Spray. It’s warm, soft and just the right amount of sweet. One spritz and I’m mentally barefoot in the sand, cocktail in hand. It’s summer in a bottle.

As it's summer time now, is there a scent that instantly transports you to the beach?

Find Anne on Instagram: @anne_nichebeauty

Shop at Niche Beauty today: www.niche-beauty.com

Looking ahead, what are your hopes and ambitions for the future of Niche Beauty?

ABouT MR ANDREA SIGNORONI

currently we're in summer, is there a scent that instantly transports you to the beach?

Absolutely: Phlur Vanilla Skin Body Spray. It’s warm, soft and just the right amount of sweet. One spritz and I’m mentally barefoot in the sand, cocktail in hand. It’s summer in a bottle.

Looking ahead, what are your hopes and ambitions for the future of Niche Beauty?

Our goal is clear: to become the leading online destination for luxury beauty in Europe. We want to keep setting the standard in curation, storytelling and service. And yes, we’ve set our sights on hitting the 100€ million mark by the end of 2028. Ambitious? Absolutely. But we’re building something with heart, strategy and staying power. The best is still to come.

Find Anne on Instagram: @anne_nichebeauty

Shop at Niche Beauty today:
www.niche-beauty.com

History of Barovier & Toso

Appreciation and success. Feeling seen and valued for what I bring to the table pushes me to keep going. And success; not just the big wins, but the quiet, personal milestones too — is what fuels me. I love the feeling of building something meaningful, of making an impact. That’s what keeps the fire lit.

What continues to inspire and drive you forward — both in life and in your work?

Our goal is clear: to become the leading online destination for luxury beauty in Europe. We want to keep setting the standard in curation, storytelling and service. And yes, we’ve set our sights on hitting the 100€ million mark by the end of 2028. Ambitious? Absolutely. But we’re building something with heart, strategy and staying power. The best is still to come.

Definitely my childhood. I was a successful dressage rider, which taught me responsibility, discipline and a drive to always push myself to be better. I grew up in a competitive environment, particularly in horse riding, where success often meant recognition and praise. That dynamic shaped me early on. It gave me ambition, but also the understanding that real growth comes from consistency, focus and showing up every single day. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career.

Was there a defining moment or influence that shaped your growth as a leader and visionary?

ABouT MR ANDREA SIGNORONI

"Today, after more than seven hundred years, Barovier & Toso remains the oldest glassworks in the world still operating — a symbol of continuity, creativity, and excellence that transcends time."

History of Barovier & Toso

History of Barovier & Toso

History of Barovier & Toso