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Paolo Sebastian in the Spotlight: Adelaide Couture Meets Hollywood
Hear from Creative Director Paul Vasileff as Sitchu explores how Adelaide inspires a couture house that dazzles on the world’s most glamorous stage.
From the quiet streets of Adelaide to the flashing lights of Hollywood, Paolo Sebastian has become a go-to for red carpet and music video moments alike. Taylor Swift’s gown in The Fate of Ophelia and Ariana Grande’s ballerina-pink moment for Late Night with Seth Meyers are just a glimpse of how the Adelaide-based couture house has captured the world’s attention.
Even as the brand dazzles on global stages, Creative Director Paul Vasileff keeps a connection to home, drawing inspiration and comfort from familiar corners and hidden gems — places that, like his couture, feel effortlessly timeless.
What Draws Hollywood Artists and Stylists to Paolo Sebastian?
I hope they are inspired by our work and detail. It’s always so exciting and surreal working with celebrities — growing up, I would closely follow events like the Met Gala and the Oscars, and saw these beautiful dresses walk down the red carpet. To see our gowns featured on a global stage is so wonderful and never gets old. We are also extremely thrilled to get to do this all from Adelaide.
Was There a Defining Celebrity Moment That Shifted the Brand’s Global Presence?
Our first Oscars placement, when we dressed Giuliana Rancic. Growing up watching the Oscars and having always dreamed about seeing my work on that same red carpet made it such a proud moment.
What Was Your First Reaction When Taylor Swift Wanted a Paolo Sebastian Gown for The Fate of Ophelia Music Video?
It’s incredible, the dress, and the entire collection from A Lover’s Kiss, was inspired by the great love stories of old, a tribute to the captivating power of true love. To see Taylor Swift wearing our gown while she sings about her own love story is an unforgettable moment for Paolo Sebastian. We have deep admiration for Taylor and the art she brings to the world — she’s a powerhouse storyteller, and at Paolo Sebastian, storytelling is at the heart of every collection. It’s an honour to see a piece of our artistry woven into her own.
Designing Ariana Grande’s Custom Gown for Late Night With Seth Meyers — How Did That Come Together?
We can all picture that dress. Billy Burke as Glinda the Good in the Wizard of Oz is such an iconic moment in movie history, and now Ariana has so seamlessly slipped into those shoes. It was a thrill to take inspiration from the past to honour the present moment. As someone who grew up watching the original film, and then the smash-hit Broadway musical, it was a dream come true to see this brought to life on the big screen. Ariana gifted us with her performance as Glinda, as have the entire team behind these breathtaking films. I’m deeply honoured to play a small part in celebrating it.
What’s the Wildest or Most Unexpected Inspiration That’s Sparked a Collection or Custom Piece?
How I find inspiration is different each time — I might be inspired by a colour, mood, fabric, shape, or piece of music. Once I have my inspiration or know my direction, I create a mood board and really try to understand the character or the story I am creating for. I’ve loved so many of the stories we have done over the years. Often inspiration comes to me at the most unexpected times — for example, the idea for our Autumn/Winter 2018-19 couture collection, The Nutcracker, came to me when I was out shopping. One of my favourite collections, Allora Domenica… is inspired by my grandmother.
Why Stay in Adelaide When the World Is Your Runway?
It’s my home, I love it here, and I love that we can practice an art form in Adelaide. Growing up, I was always told that it would be impossible to achieve my dreams while being in Adelaide, and I’m so happy that we are able to do what we do from here.
What’s a Day in the Life Like When You’re Back in Adelaide? Any Favourite Spots?
My favourite place to grab food is Fugazzi for their renowned gnocco fritto with whipped ricotta and honey. Chianti for their impeccable dining experience. Ruby Red Flamingo, my go-to is always the ragu. Hidden Leaf Cafe in Campbelltown is also one of my favourite regular go-to spots. What I love most about it here is the quality of life and the people. We do everything to such a high standard in South Australia. I love getting to travel for work, but my favourite thing is to come home to Adelaide.
Looking at Adelaide’s Creative Future, What’s One Thing You Hope the City Becomes Known For?
I hope we become more recognised for our talent and our amazing skill sets that we have in this great state.
What’s Next for Paolo Sebastian?
We are continually focusing on growth and further developing, not only through our techniques and craftsmanship but also through our product offerings. In 2023, we launched our footwear and scarf line, which has been a wonderful extension of the brand and another touchpoint for clients. Each of these pieces has been inspired by a different collection, which has been a lot of fun to reflect on and reinterpret those stories through another product.
For this coming year, we are looking forward to holding more trunk shows in the Middle East. As always, for the brand we are focusing on continuing to develop, our main goal is to always celebrate the couture techniques, fabrics and the craftsmanship that goes into creating each piece. Through this, we are keeping true to the Paolo Sebastian aesthetic while always moving forward.
Enjoyed hearing from Paul? See the latest in fashion and shopping news in Adelaide or read about another Adelaide success story, Brooke Upton.
