Michael Lo Sordo's Decadent Delights: A Parisian Affair at AAFW
Michael Lo Sordo, the master of sartorial elegance, set the stage ablaze at Afterpay Australian Fashion Week (AAFW) with a show that transported guests to the hedonistic world of late-night Parisian nightclubs. Carriageworks transformed into a sensual playground, complete with dirty martinis, enchanting violinists, and an abundance of skin. The Australian designer, celebrating his 10th year anniversary, left the style scene bewitched with his daring Resort '24 collection.
Lo Sordo, known for his mastery of silk, surprised us all by unveiling a lineup that embraced lace, velvet, and what he calls "peti-drapery" ensembles for the nocturnal creatures. Drawing inspiration from legendary French clubs like Maxims, Le Boeuf Sur le Toit, and Le Sept, as well as the creative allure of Versace and Tom Ford, Lo Sordo's designs exuded opulence and allure. Redken, the hair maestros, effortlessly channeled the spirit of Kate Moss in the early 2000s, creating a lo-fi French chic vibe that perfectly complemented the luxurious and sexy garments.
While Lo Sordo's signature lies in special occasion attire, this collection also celebrated pared-back separates, intimates, and coastal chic attire, evoking a sense of wanderlust for the European summer. Picture sun-drenched Scorpios in Mykonos—sophisticated, carefree, and utterly alluring. Just like the Euro glamour it emulates, the late-night festivities continued well after the show with a lavish after-party hosted by global members club Soho House, in partnership with Porsche, at the Amorica Grande Brasserie in Surry Hills. This season, Lo Sordo's creations demand the confidence of those bold enough to bare all.
In discussing his influences, Lo Sordo shared, "In terms of energy and the world I want to create, there are two main influences: Parisian clubs and the people who frequented them over the last 100 years, and the attitude of the '90s embodied by Versace, Tom Ford, and others—lustrous skin, sex appeal, and sass." His design offering explored the art of drapery, with an emphasis on clothes gracefully hanging off the body, a concept he has long ideated and found inspiration in Renaissance masterpieces like Botticelli's Allegory of Spring (Primavera) and Judith Slaying Holofernes.
Michael Lo Sordo's velvet underground at AAFW left an indelible mark on the fashion landscape. With his bold vision and impeccable craftsmanship, he once again proves himself as a designer unafraid to push boundaries and create unforgettable experiences. This collection is a testament to his creativity, elevating the Australian fashion scene to new heights of decadence and allure.
