February 18, 2010
fashion designer collette dinnigan
This is Collette Dinnigan's first foray into interiors -
the Dom Perignon lounge at Sydney's hemmesphere, Establishment.
the Dom Perignon lounge at Sydney's hemmesphere, Establishment.
I have a lot of admiration for Collette Dinnigan. And it's not just because she creates the most beautiful, feminine clothes. Or because she started out in the ABC costume department in Sydney (there's something wonderfully romantic about that kind of work). And it's not even because she was the first Australian to show a ready-to-wear collection in Paris. No, rather, it's because under intense media scrutiny, due to her phenomenal success on an international scale, she's kept her poise and focus, and continued on with what she loves: designing beautiful clothes.
Which five words best describe you? Passionate, creative, spontaneous, detailed, nurturing.
How did you get your start in fashion and what path have you taken since? After studying fashion design in New Zealand, I gained invaluable experience at my first role within the costume department of the Australian Broadcasting Commission. The exposure to so many key periods within fashion continues to influence me to this day.
What advice would you give inspiring designers? The best advice I ever received was 'listen, rather than speak' and always follow your instincts.
What is your proudest career achievement? Our 10-year anniversary show in Paris.
What has been your best decision? To work for myself, building my own company and brand and of course to become a mother to my beautiful daughter Estella.
Who inspires you? A vast mirriad of people both past and present from Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Talitha Getty and Cate Blanchett.
What are you passionate about? Escaping to my property in the South Coast with family and friends, I really enjoy entertaining and cooking, and also tending to my veggie garden.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? Artists Andy Warhol and Picasso.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? I would love to go into designing hotels and interiors.
What are you reading? Tim Winton's latest novel.
images courtesy of collette dinnigan