Paolo Sebastian launches new range to world in online show

Paolo Sebastian’s latest stunning couture collection has been shown at Melbourne Fashion Festival. See some of the designs here:

Paul Vasileff with model Eliza in a gown from a previous collection. Picture: James Elsby

Paolo Sebastian designer Paul Vasileff has unveiled his latest collection to give the world hope that life is returning to normal.

Created in Adelaide, the 14-piece range, Persephone, was inspired by the goddess of spring and queen of the underworld.

Persephone was launched globally online on Tuesday night in Runway 3, a pre-recorded parade, as part of the Melbourne Fashion Festival.

Vasileff said the digital launch was a gift he could give people during COVID-19.

“There is something magical about a fashion show that all the world will see at the one time,” he said.

“I wanted to give people stuck at home something to look forward to.”

Persephone Picture: Melbourne Fashion Festival

While the most recent Paolo Sebastian offering, Heirloom, was pared back because COVID-19 meant certain fabrics sourced overseas were unavailable, that was not the case with Persephone, Vasileff said.

“All of our suppliers in Italy and France have opened up again, so it made the process like normal,” he said.

“It’s a very different feel to Heirloom … more grand in terms of fabrication, embroidery and motifs.”

The show, which also featured designs by Steven Kahlil and Maticevski, was filmed in Redwood Forest in Melbourne’s Yarra Valley.

Runway 3 was presented by Vogue Australia and Afterpay.