Just as quirky fashion became a central character on HBO’s Sex and the City, stunning haute couture gowns established a much-anticipated presence on the debut season of The Bachelorette Australia.
Sam Frost always looked put-together previously as a contestant on The Bachelor, but now as the star of her own show, wardrobe stylist Charmaine De Pasquale made sure she looked the part in exquisitely crafted evening gowns from Perth-born designer Aurelio Costarella.
Photos: Channel 10
The designer’s floor-sweeping frocks were worn by Sam during every nerve-racking rose ceremony (excluding the finale), where contestants were dramatically evicted from the show.
Initially Aurelio was to supply only one gown for the show but ended up exclusively dressing Sam for the rose ceremonies at the urging of brand manager, Paul O’Connor.
Paul had suggested that since a man from Western Australian (Blake Garvey) had broken her heart, that perhaps wearing Aurelio’s designs would allow her to fall in love with Western Australia again.
“A huge selection of styles were sent over and Sam fell in love with all of the designs so it was a ‘perfect’ union,” Aurelio tells theFashionSpot.
Each week the dresses selected for the rose ceremonies came as a surprise to Aurelio, who had Paul keep him updated with screen shots while he showed his latest collection at Paris Fashion Week.
While finding it difficult to pick a favourite gown worn by Sam, Aurelio selected his white Juliette Gown ($990), a halter gown with a front split and white 3D beaded neck-trim. “The simplicity of this gown worked beautifully on her. It was understated and elegant,” Aurelio says.
Photos: Channel 10
The Shadowplay Gown ($3,005) worn in the final-three rose ceremony was also a favourite of his for its dramatic effect. The piece upped the glam factor with a back-mesh bodice encrusted with hand beading and ostrich feathers.
Photos: Channel 10
“Much of my work is inspired by nature, architecture, art and colour. I appreciate beautiful textiles, hence my love of beading and embroidery. Whether detailed or simple, my focus is always quality,” Aurelio tells us of the inspiration behind his work.
A handful of gowns featured are available now via the Aurelio Costarella flagship store in Perth, select stockists across Australia, and through the label’s online boutique.
