For the first official designer runway of the week, the MSFW Opening Gala dipped into the collections of some of Australia’s best talent, pulling together a show that covered everything from gowns to suiting, and showstopping couture moments. Featuring pieces from Bianca Spender, Carla Zampatti, Thurley, Jason Grech, Rachel Gilbert, and more, the runway was a celebration of what makes Australian fashion so unique.
CHRISTALEA
Embellished structured pieces created from floral gold and red tea stained fabrics, the silhouettes were strong and considered, with construction a key element to the presentation. Pleats ranged from soft to gladiator-seque. Progressing into more fluid pieces, the collection encapsulated a romantic look at spring fashion. The highlight? The showstopping black off the shoulder gown that served as the finale piece of the presentation.
BIANCA SPENDER
Strong suiting with a twist. Oversize blazers, tulle bodices and sleek silhouettes in muted tones served as the foundation of the presentation, with floral accents by way of accessories adding a whimsicial, feminine feel, before a stunning three piece suit closed the presentation.
CARLA ZAMPATTI
Keeping it in the family, Carla Zampatti’s presentation followed, with royal blue and black pleated pieces opening her section, before segue into brocade jackets and cocktail dresses (over pants, for a modern twist). One shoulder sleek LBD’s morphed into her signature jumpsuits. The takeway? This season, the Carla girl gets a little bit more sexy.
THURLEY
Arguably the leading label of lace, the Thurley presentation showcased some of this season’s must have pieces, complete with spring racing-ready headpieces. The intricate embellishment and lacework were highlights of the Opening Gala, and the soft chiffons were romanticism at its best.
JASON GRECH
Differing from the rest of the proceedings, three models stood stationary to signal the beginning of the presentation. Soft pastels, Ivory, and lilac began the colour palate, finishing with stark sculptural black pieces.
RACHEL GILBERT
Following the trend of the evening, Rachel Gilbert’s presentation opened with a ivory suit before taking a turn into feminine geometric printed pieces, not out of place for the upcoming Spring racing carnival. Closing embellished gown with feather train
GWENDOLYNNE
Opening her presentation, black and gold statement pieces set the tone of the collection, before moving into her signature ivory embellished gowns. The closing look. a sleek silk bias cut gown, was a standout of the evening.
AURELIO COSTARELLA
Playing with textures, pearls, crystals and feathers were all interpolated with metallic fabrics, with classic silhouettes balancing the looks. Graphic prints added further diamension to the collection, and the brocade dress closing was a highlight.
ONE DAY
Couturier, Kyah kept it light with her presentation, covering the wants of any bride (or anyone with a lust for dressing up). Lace, sequins, silks were incorporated into a world of silhouettes, showcasing something for everyone.
Images courtesy of Lucas Dawson
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