Carla Zampatti: The Showstopper — the well-considered wardrobe

54 years on and Carla still takes our breath away.

Carla Zampatti is a woman who needs no introduction. With a career in fashion spanning 5 decades, Zampatti continues to flourish, both in Australia and overseas, year upon year. In what was arguably the most refined show of the season, the veteran was given the honour of closing Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in a presentation that provided numerous breathtaking moments including a performance by the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra.

The runway looks were signature Zampatti whilst bringing something new to the mix: sharp, crisp tailoring paired with soft fabrics and feminine silhouettes in a classic colour palette with the occasional pop. The iconic Australian designer blatantly refusing to give in to the temporary trendiness of streetwear and trainers that have been ubiquitous on runways of late.

The 40+ looks shown on the runway included Zampatti's signature black and ivory colour palette in stripes and spots, as well as memorable details such as sequinned animal prints, popping yellows and an ethereal floral print.

My pick? Navy sequined dresses and jackets: a mesmerising, somewhat less serious reinvention of the classic black.

Princess Mary of Denmark is known to wear her pieces, as are other Australian icons such as Nicole Kidman and Miranda Kerr. For 54 years, Carla Zampatti has gestured to Australian women to really clothe themselves for the occasion and shows no sign of running out of steam.

When I sat down to write this post I discovered that today is actually Carla Zampatti’s 77th birthday! This drives home just how truly remarkable she is. Her longevity and relevance shines clear and bright amidst the clutter of the cheap and disposable.

Happy birthday to you Ms. Zampatti, you are an inspiration.

ED xx