Designer Series Runway #1

Day 2 of Melbourne Spring Fashion Week brought the first of the designer series runway shows with it. Featuring some of my favourite Australian designers; Gwendolynne, Aurelio Costarella and Rachel Gilbert were among an impressive line up worthy of the grand opening night.

The show was opened by stunning "birds" of the Phillip Adam Ballet Lab, while Sophie wore a divine black velvet ensemble topped with exquisite feather head piece by Richard Nylon.

PETA had been protesting outside before the show began, so it was not a shock when they stormed in and took over the runway. In fact most of the audience sat fixed as if it were part of the show. When it was announced that we would have to evacuate the building, that irked the crowd and the protesters were lead out. Unfortunately only two gowns remained to be seen on the runway, and I thought to myself that the PETA crew could have timed it better, so it was more like a mid movie interval - like they do in Europe so everyone can get their nicotine fix. Bravo to their message - but even more - bravo to the two woman's bravado for getting up in front of a discerning crowd in their polyester blend jersey sacks and 1991 black boots.

Enjoy the pics from my nose bleed seat and my souped up LEICA lens

Velvet Heaven

My top pick

And the best way to top off a night filled with birds of a feather, sky scraper stilettos and dare I say nudity:

Cocktails from the most enviro friendly bar in town, Council House No#2

Rose & Lime concoction

Warm Soy Milk with lashings of liqueur - "Christmas in a glass"

Great night out with a best friend

-XOX-

Designing My 2025/2026 Grad Collection

Rada Priya 25/26' Concept board Fashion has always been a part of my creative soul, but after stepping away for years, returning through my studies has reignited a passion I thought I'd left behind. Now, deep in the concept phase of my 2025/2026 diploma graduation collection, I'm drawing inspiration from the opulence of Paris Couture Fashion Week SS25, particularly the breathtaking craftsmanship of Armani Privé. This collection is about honoring my roots in intricate beadwork while embracing sustainable practices and modern elegance. My design process starts with textiles, and my palette has evolved into a rich tapestry of verdant hues—lush greens, earth tones, metallic blues, and soft greys. Sustainability remains at the forefront, with natural fibres, ethically sourced Thai silk from my travels last year, and upcycled fabrics from local op shops. Faux fur, a treasure from my decade-old fabric collection, adds a layer of texture and nostalgia. Embellishments will include...

The Man I Was Taught to Fear

There are people we grieve twice in a lifetime. Once for who they were. And once for who we were never allowed to know. My father is one of them. When I was a child, my mother told me he was a paedophile. She didn’t whisper it. She didn’t hesitate. She said it plainly, as fact. As warning. As control. When we misbehaved, she would drop us at the greyhound station and force us to spend sleepless weekends with him. I remember the noise of the station. The way my stomach would knot. The terror that would sit in my chest at night when the lights went out. I was absolutely terrified to sleep. He was a workaholic. Twelve-hour days. Long hours. Absence disguised as provision. He would leave cash on the bench, stockpiles of food in the fridge, and the television on - a wild luxury I couldn’t enjoy because fear had already moved in. At home with my mother, we weren’t allowed a TV at all. Looking back now, my father was unemotional, but never unkind. He didn’t ask questions. He didn’t offer hims...

Shorts for amusement

I’ve recently started giving some love and attention to my YouTube channel where I’ve been posting Shorts about sewing hacks, upcycling fashion, trending clips, and styling tips. If you’re interested in these topics or just want to explore some new ideas, I’d love for you to check it out. Feel free to follow along and join me in exploring some practical and creative fashion tips. RadaPriya

Rada Priya

Search This Blog