Fashion icon marks 30 years
"Determination, hard work, and not succumbing to the PR hype" are the three keys to longevity in the Australian fashion industry, according to Perth designer Aurelio Costarella.
The man famous for his feminine frocks will celebrate 30 years in the fashion business with a special presentation at Australian Fashion Week in Sydney on Monday.
Called Retrospect, the showcase will feature 20 outfits reflecting the history of his design career, featuring his trademark beading and sequins in colours of bronze, silver and peach.
The show will include a performance by Perth-born, Los Angeles-based singer Grace Woodroofe.
"I've seen many designers come and go," Costarella said. "I don't really engage in fads - I'm more about delivering an honest product based on good quality fabrics, good design and wearability."
Costarella said the highlight of his long career was being congratulated backstage by Australian actress Cate Blanchett after a successful show 13 years ago.
"Showing at New York Fashion Week was another highlight," Costarella said.
"But what I am most proud of is that I've been able to survive in this industry for so long, thanks to the great support I've had from staff, family and clients."
The designer said he enjoyed showcasing the work of other Perth talents and had booked a strong line-up of WA models, including Sarah Pauley and model-to-watch Gabrielle Sullivan, with headwear to be created by local milliner Reny Kestel.
