Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia officially began on Monday, but veteran designer Carla Zampatti held her show on Sunday evening as this year’s Mercedes-Benz Presents designer. Zampatti’s allocated show time drew a crowd of eager faces and well-shod feet, falling well before the time when skipping shows in favor of a sit-down lunch becomes all too tempting.
With 49 years experience thriving a notoriously fickle industry, Zampatti is not only skilled at designing exceptional clothing but at perfecting the balance of old and new. Sunday night’s show was no different. Trousers and jumpsuits were standouts, though this time they were cut more boldly than before and came with a flare. The silky pieces were contrasted with intricate textures, and the predominantly black and white palette was dotted with vivid peach and green pieces. “Black is the classiest color ever invented, and white is the most flattering because it reflects light to the skin in the way a string of pearls will do,” Zampatti told the Sydney Morning Herald.
The designer attributed her success to her unwavering obsession with quality. This was also seen in the elegantly cut yet elaborately embellished eveningwear (sure, sadly, to find an even larger market in the absence of competitors Lisa Ho and Collette Dinnigan). Skirts were full and bodices constructed from tiny fabric flowers, and for customers not intending to walk down the aisle any time soon, cocktail dresses with perfect cut-outs and bodycon silhouettes will surely prove a hit.
Among those who turned out to watch the show were Paula Abdul, Rachael Finch, Jesinta Campbell and Australian Winklevosses Zac and Jordan Stenmark.
With Zampatti setting the standard, we’re looking forward to seeing what the rest of the week brings.
Photo: Carla Zampatti’s Facebook
