“I think if you ask any woman who has left a situation, they would probably say that they probably should have done it sooner,” said the RHOBH newcomer, before revealing if she’s started dating again.
Rachel Zoe has shared insights about her recent separation from her husband of over 20 years, Rodger Berman.
In a conversation with People, the fashion designer discussed her decision to end her marriage, stating that she “100%” believes she should have made the move earlier.
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“I was done. I was really done,” Zoe expressed, noting that she and Berman had evolved into different individuals. “I do not feel guilty about not having given it everything I could have. I don’t feel like it was a failed marriage. Out of 26 years, I would say that three-quarters were wonderful.”
The alum of The Zoe Project, who has two children, Skyler, 14, and Kaius, 11, with Berman, mentioned that she began to “question decisions” and realized they were not aligned on various issues, which contributed to the breakdown of their marriage.
“I started to feel like this may not be the best situation for our children,” she elaborated. “For the past 14 years, every decision I make is through the lens of my kids. I have never believed that people should stay together if they are unhappy.”
Reflecting on her past, Zoe stated that she “100%” should have left her husband “sooner.”
“I believe that if you ask any woman who has exited a relationship, they would likely say they should have done it sooner,” she told People. “Ultimately, I did what was best for my children. Having two loving parents is more important than having two parents who may no longer belong together.”
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Zoe and Berman publicly announced their separation in September 2024 through a joint statement on Instagram.
“After 33 years together and 26 years of marriage, Rodger and I have mutually decided to end our marriage. We are very proud of the loving family we have created and the many memories we’ve shared. Our top priority has always been and will continue to be our children,” the statement read in part.
The couple first met in 1991 while attending George Washington University in Washington, D.C. They married a few years later and welcomed their sons, Skyler and Kaius.
Zoe filed for divorce in July, citing June 2024 as the date of separation, according to TMZ.
When questioned by People regarding Berman’s new relationship status and any potential overlap, Zoe responded, “I’m not sure if I can answer that. The timeline is what it is. Everything I say is viewed through the lens of what my children will perceive. Life is unpredictable, and it takes a lot to truly surprise me.”
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As for her current relationship with Berman, Zoe mentioned that it “depends on the day.”
“I believe I need time and space,” she added. “At this stage in my life, I am focused on protecting my peace and happiness. This has been an incredibly liberating and transformative period for me. Of course, there are challenging days, primarily when I feel overwhelmed. I am very dedicated to my children and my work, often at the expense of my own self-care.”
Just a month before filing for divorce, Zoe announced her participation in the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, set to premiere next month. In her interview with People, she indicated that she plans to discuss her divorce on the show, aiming to support other women.
“I would say at least 30% of the women in my life are experiencing a separation or divorce,” she noted. “The recurring question I receive is: ‘How am I managing to be okay after a relationship that shaped my entire adult life?’ It’s because I am independent—financially, professionally, and socially. I believe there isn’t enough emphasis on the importance of that.”
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“Interestingly, I saw an interview with Reese Witherspoon this morning discussing how vital it is for women to be independent,” she continued. “You need to have your own motivations each day. I think that when I decided to leave my marriage, it was a matter of moving forward. Regardless of what challenges life presents, you must be able to stand on your own.”
In addition, Zoe confirmed that she is “absolutely dating” and shared her perspective on what she seeks in a partner.
“It’s incredibly enjoyable,” she told People. “Honestly, it wasn’t difficult for me to start dating again. This phase of my life represents freedom. Anyone who enters my life will need to contribute positively, making me laugh and smile while aligning with who I am now.”
