By Alaa Lulu Hasanein
Covet Magazine speaks exclusively with reputable designer AURELIO COSTARELLA a man who embodies elegance, quality and statement through his designs for men and women. When did you realise you were interested in fashion and in designing? When I was ten I created a halter neck top on my Mum’s old Singer sewing machine for the girl next door. At nineteen I was creating ‘Buffalo Gal’ clothing while studying Architecture. In 1983 at the age of twenty I dropped out of university and opened my first store Crème Soda.
How did your first big break come about? I have had many achievements in my life that have aided my journey and survival in this industry. The ‘biggest break’ was, and still is, that people purchase my garments and have done so for all these years.
How long have you worked in the industry? Twenty-eight years! The Aurelio Costarella signature label was launched at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, Sydney in 2000.
You have recently worked on the film, Big Mamma’s Boy. Tell us about your involvement, have you worked on other films? Will you be getting more involved in these types of projects? BMB was my first film project. I became involved when costumer Gail Pether approached me with Director Franco Di Chiera to provide the wardrobe for Holly Valance in the film. Whilst I’ve not worked on film before, I have designed for Ballet and Opera over the years. Costume is an area I would like to explore further should the opportunity arise.
What motivates you? Being inspired motivates me – examining vintage finds, listening to their stories, letting the memories unfold. Legendary Hollywood starlets and pieces of music have also influenced |
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