Former Miss Universe Australia Maria Thattil reveals startling hour she wakes up for AFW

Maria Thattil kicked off day three of Fashion Week bright and early, stepping into the spotlight with a renewed focus on herself following a recent break-up.

Maria Thattil kicked off day three of Fashion Week bright and early, stepping into the spotlight with a renewed focus on herself following a recent break-up.

The former Miss Universe Australia revealed she was up at 3.45am on Wednesday to prepare her glam look for the AJE show.

“I had to have breakfast and ice my face, make sure I was fuelled up for the day before we started glam and got ready,” she told Confidential.

“You want to dress up and enjoy Fashion Week, because how often do you get to do that.”

Thattil, who split from former AFLW player Moana Hope earlier this year, said she is channelling her energy into upcoming projects and maintaining her wellbeing.

Thattil attends the Aje show at Australian Fashion Week 2025. Picture: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

And for the 32-year-old, health isn’t about strict diets.

“When it comes to health, I don’t believe in watching what you eat,” she said.

“Health for me is more well rounded, a good balance of rest, time with your family, exercising just to honour your body through movement and eating good but whatever I feel like.”

Maria Thattil arrives at Australian Fashion Week. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

“If it makes me happy, it makes me happy.”

Thattil also noticed the evolving atmosphere at Fashion Week since IMG stepped back in November.

“It definitely has a different feel now,” she said.

“But there’s this sense that a lot of global eyes are on us, and there’s more attention because people are curious to see how it’s going to go.”

“There’s still that excitement and buzz, but it feels more relaxed, and I like that. It’s a busy enough week, so it’s nice when things are a bit more chill.”

AFLW stars Chloe Molloy and Ally Morphett traded the footy field for the front row, stepping into their very first Fashion Week appearance with style and curiosity.

Molloy, captain of the Sydney Swans, made it clear she wouldn’t be strutting the runway anytime soon—but she’s all for embracing new experiences.

“There’s not a chance you’ll catch me walking the runway,” she laughed while speaking to Confidential. “But you can absolutely appreciate someone else’s passion.”

AFL players Ally Morphett (left) and Chloe Molloy at the Faraga show during Australian Fashion Week 2025 at Carriageworks in Everleigh. Picture: Jonathan Ng

“Watching the models walk—I could never do that. And I think it goes both ways. They probably couldn’t kick a footy either.”

Describing herself as “a very simple gal,” Molloy said the day gave her a new appreciation for fashion and the people who live and breathe it.

“It really put things in perspective—when people follow what lights them up, it’s awesome to watch.”

AFL players Ally Morphett (left) and Chloe Molloy at the Faraga show during Australian Fashion Week 2025 at Carriageworks in Everleigh. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Joining her at the Farage show on Tuesday was teammate Ally Morphett, 21, who leaned into the moment with a more glamorous flair.

“I’m definitely a girly girl,” Morphett said. “I love this side of things. It’s pretty cool to blend this world with footy—it’s exciting.”

Both players were dressed by designer Joe Farage, whose latest collection debuted just two days after the passing of his beloved mother, Charlotte, at age 88.

“We saw him backstage—he had a lot of hugs coming his way,” Molloy shared. “It was really special to be there and show our support.”

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