Stephanie Nardella is a fashion student whose interest in bridal wear goes back a long way. When she was eight years old, she did a school project on wedding dresses through the centuries. She still sees her future in this area, but her most recent design represents a shift in the way she thinks about bridal style.
Nardella’s white jumpsuit and cape features in Melbourne’s Next Bright Talents, which is part of Melbourne Spring Fashion Week. Several fashion design schools have chosen a student or recent graduate for this exhibition, which can be seen on the upper level at Southgate. It is one of several free MSFW showcases at Southgate.
Knee Length Chiffon Sheath/Column V-neck Empire Sleeveless Homecoming Dress
Nardella, who is studying at Kangan Institute, made the garment from jersey and 23 metres of tulle for a romance-themed avant-garde collection for her second year. It was a breakthrough for her, she says: “Now I’ve completed it, it’s changed how I design.” Next year she’s returning to do her advanced diploma, and looks forward to the chance to focus on couture.
Other exhibitors include Christopher Avery, who graduated from Melbourne School of Fashion in 2013, and Jyoti Chandra, a recent graduate of Whitehouse Institute of Design.
Avery, who studied architecture before switching to fashion, is represented by a look from his final collection for the school. The jacket is is made from an Alexander McQueen remnant, a rich speckled fabric of alpaca, mohair, wool and polyamide that to Avery seems almost like snake skin. His interest is in menswear, but he is keen to push against the constraints traditionally imposed on male fashion. “This collection was very much inspired by the fashion freedom of womenswear.” he says.
Mini Tulle Satin A Line Sweetheart Sleeveless Gold Homecoming Dress
There are some traditions, however, that he values. He is eager to learn all the skills of old-school tailoring, and apply them in his future designs.
Chandra’s exhibition outfit is a black-mesh bodysuit with a cage-like corset and hat, both made from lampshades. It comes from a collection called The Semblance of a Unified Identity, based on research into women’s feelings about their bodies.
Her direction is art-focused, rather than commercial. “I’m not good at doing ready to wear, but I love doing costuming, and avant-garde pieces.” She’s a make-up artist and creative director, and likes to work on photo shoots that present her designs. “Just making clothes isn’t really enough for me, I want the entire image to portray what I am trying to say. Ever since I’ve started I’ve leant towards art, rather than fashion.”
