Let's Talkabout
Aurelio Costarella
Where: Post Emporium, 23 View St, North Perth. T:9228 0373
Must see: The D'or skirt from the Summer 11/12 Illumina collection
Tell us a little about your label.
Since launching in 2000, the Aurelio Costarella Brand has built a strong following and loyal celebrity clientele. Worn and admired by international stars including Rihanna, Dita Von Teese, Naya Rivera, Nicole Scherzinger, Keri Hilson, Melissa George, Dannii Minogue and Tina Arena. Each thematic collection is an exploration, a journey that moves seamlessly from one season to the next. A focus on textile development, detailed cutting and quality craftsmanship sets the brand apart. In 2009 Australian Fashion Group International acknowledged the brands achievements with an International Achievement Award.
We hear you come from an architectural background. How has your experience in this field informed your approach to fashion design?
My architectural beginnings have given me a solid grounding in terms of aesthetic, colour, form. My ability very early on to imagine a 3D garment laid out flat as a plan/pattern was directly associated to my architecture practice. Much of my early work was draped or sculpted on a body in 3-Dimensional form. Architecture still inspires many of my collections.
What influences new collections?
The work of 1920's designers Madame Gres and Vionnet played an inspirational role in some of the shapes, draping and fabric manipulation in my latest collection.
What's your favourite piece from the latest collection?
Aurelio Costarella Summer 11/12 is titled Illumina - a journey into the ever-changing colours of nature, light and dark. The collection is a mixing of textures and colour; leather, printed silk, crystal jewels, ostrich and maribou feathers with a palette of cerise, corn, birch and black. The D'or skirt in this collection is a great example of all this with its pleated panels with jewel and feather detail.
How are Australian designers perceived overseas?
Australian designers are beginning to be recognised in international markets. As a creative nation we are still discovering our identity. We don't have the history of the Italian or French cultures in terms of design process and creative expertise but we are getting there.
Who or what inspires you? Who do you admire from here and abroad?
I am inspired by art, history, photography, music, light, architecture, nature. I look for beauty everywhere.
What have been your biggest challenges?
Isolation! Remaining WA based presents many challenges dealing with a global marketplace but this also breeds creativity. It fosters a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed.
What's Perth's best kept secret?
Songstress Julia Jenkin's makes the best Soy Latte at milkd (North Perth) and Mrs S (Maylands) creates the most wonderful sweet delights.
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