Guide / Empowered by Women – A Conversation with Annabelle Homann
Interview · Reading time: 5 minutes
As a woman-led company, we stand for fashion with an attitude. A mother-daughter duo, a team of 60 women and two men – and a shared vision: to design clothing that makes women visible in all their diversity and empowers them in their everyday lives.
We do not design for an ideal, but for reality. For different paths in life, perspectives, and moments. We see fashion not only as an expression of our personality, but also as a form of support. What drives us is the conviction that empowerment is created through togetherness – in the way we work, make decisions, and shape things.
In an interview with Annabelle Homann, COO at LANIUS and mother of one, we talk about intergenerational collaboration, female entrepreneurship, and the values behind our brand.
Annabelle, which women inspire you?
I am particularly inspired by my mother, Claudia Lanius. She is a visionary, a doer, and a true powerhouse. She manages to take people along, inspire them, and convince them – with clarity, conviction, and heart.
What inspires you when working with women?
The cohesion. The special energy that arises when women work together. I experience it as solution-oriented, respectful, and cooperative – a collaboration that supports and propels forward.
What does Mother's Day mean to you personally and to LANIUS?
Mother's Day is an important occasion for me to create visibility – for equality, which we have legally achieved but do not yet live everywhere. For LANIUS, this day is closely linked to our DNA: We are female-led and a team of 60 women and two men in total. We work with and for women – at all levels.
To what extent does female empowerment play a role in your daily work?
For us, female empowerment is not a trend but an attitude. This is reflected in our team, in our partnerships, and in the way we design fashion: not prescriptive, but supportive. We don't want to tell women how to be – instead, we want to empower them to find their own expression. Our clothing should feel good, accompany them, and boost their self-confidence – true favorite pieces for everyday life.
What challenges do you currently see for women – including in the fashion industry?
Despite many advances, structural inequalities persist – for example, in leadership positions, pay, and visibility. Especially in an industry that is heavily dominated by women, it is crucial to take responsibility and actively shape change. At LANIUS, we specifically support our female employees: with flexible working hours, childcare subsidies, and a work environment that makes motherhood and career compatible. At the same time, we stand for long-term, secure partnerships – both within the team and with our producers for over 25 years.
What social change can fashion bring about?
Fashion is more than clothing – it is an expression and an attitude at the same time. It can convey values, strengthen identity, and create awareness. Designed responsibly, it becomes part of a more sustainable and just future.
What do you wish for the future?
A world where equality is a given. Where diversity is seen as a strength. And where companies take responsibility – every day.
How do you manage your wardrobe as a mother and COO?
My wardrobe is deliberately minimalist and versatile at the same time. Jeans often form the basis – combined with a blouse, knitwear, or sweatshirt. For me, these are uncomplicated favorite pieces that see me through the day: from my bike to the office and on to the playground. It's important to me that everything feels good, allows freedom of movement, and adapts flexibly to different moments. Clothes should support – not restrict.
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