Deisgner Carla Zampatti (centre) with models Amer Athiu (left) and Roberta Pecoraro,and harpist Hannah Lane from the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra ahead of Zampatti's show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia on Thursday.Credit:James Brickwood
Zampatti,who turns 77 on Sunday,has had one of the most theatrical starts to 2019,starring as theGrand Showcase designer at the Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival,and now closing Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.
"I think to myself,what am I doing to myself,but I see it as two opportunities – I couldn't say no,"Zampatti said."They only come along once or twice."
A committed lover andpatron of the arts,Zampatti said she was thrilled to"merge two of her passions,fashion and music". Zampatti's Melbourne show included a performance by singer Dami Im.
"The orchestra loves the idea of doing something different. This kind of venue and audience enlarges their reach,too,"Zampatti said.
A model walks the runway wearing creations by Ten Pieces during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia.Credit:AAP
The 41 looks shown from the forthcoming collection included Zampatti's signature black and ivory colour palette in stripes and spots,as well as sequinned animal prints,popping yellows and,in something of a departure,a tigerlily print.
Australia's queen of the power suit drew a high-profile crowd including NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian,retiring federal MP Julie Bishop,ABC chairwoman Ita Buttrose and Sydney Dance Company creative director Rafael Bonachella.