The Dress Behind The Sash
Where it all begins…..
Kerrie Carucci wearing her winning custom Milva Carucci Designs dress
image: Taylor Kezia
Where it all begins….
Like most of my amazing one off, custom dresses that I'm so fortunate to make for both my daughter and my other valued clients, it always starts with a simple idea.
What appears insignificant at the time, it could be in the form of something in nature, a signature style from decades before, a particular colour palette, a piece of fabric, a theme or perhaps an element of inspiration straight off the European runway.
For me personally, as a creative, designer and dressmaker, the most rewarding part of my job is having the ability to converse with my client's far and wide and taking on their individual requirements, ideas and bringing them to life with a beautiful customised outfit concept. The perfect combination of design, fabric and fit, allows the execution and end result of every woman having something unique just for them.
Kerrie came to me with a design, concept and elements of inspiration of how she envisioned her final look to be for Brisbane Racing Club Tab Stradbroke Day. With a theme of black, white and a touch of red - this in it's own element can be interpreted in so many varying combinations, though as a stylist and a stickler for having 'an attention to detail' - Kerrie had a concise idea of where she wanted her outfit to be - Feminine, elegant, classic though being a simplistic statement.
Inspired by elements of 1980's, Prada's latest collection and some incredible trends showing up in the royal family, this dress really started with the unique houndstooth print fabric. Where most houndstooth patterned fabrics are usually found in heavier and structured composition, though this soft georgette (soft flowing) was perfect for the feminine and elegant outcome that we wanted to achieve. From the flowing sleeves, pleated skirt details and feminine lines the fabric was the hero for this dress.
When creating a concept and design, distance can sometimes be testing as like 80% of my clients, they are in varied locations across Australia and New Zealand. Bringing the importance of having the correct individual measurements in the first instance so I can ensure the design and fit can be tailored just to them. The beautiful benefit of working with my regular clients is forming an appreciation of their personal style, body shape and elements that can explored in different outfit styles.
Kerrie not only did me as her mum though also her dressmaker so incredibly proud on executing a beautifully styled and balanced look. Complimenting her dress with a gorgeous and on trend 3d head band by Martina McGrath and some staple accessories, it was certainly a beautiful and sash worthy look!
Working with my client's to create a beautiful one- off, customised outfit is a conscious effort to really embrace the hand to heart movement and showcase the emphasis on sustainability in the fashion industry. I like to work with my client's to create unique and loving pieces that in affect brings the craftmanship and individuality that we are experiencing as the movement in consumer behaviours is progressing.
If you’re interested in making a conscious decision to have your next special occasion piece to truly bring an individual and unique moment for you, I would love to chat further about your outfit requirements.
The Winners
Image - Brisbane Racing Club
Spring All Wrapped Up!
Well that went truly so quickly! September and October came, and seemed like it just went again and before we know it we are at the end of Spring! Yes 2017 is moving a truly rapid pace! It only feels like yesterday that I was sitting on the plane back to Brisbane after what was a phenomenal weekend spent back in the sunny FNQ with sore cheeks, sore feet, new friends and a little heart that has been filled with even more gratitude for simply having some beautiful people in my life.
Milva Carucci Designs has had an exciting and busy few months with some incredible new and loyal MCD customers truly exceeding all fashionista levels and taking racing fashion by storm. They have collected numerous sashes, Top 10 finishes though most importantly was a chance for every amazing client to look and feel amazing! Having a custom fit, one off outfit is more then just fabric, a dress or an ensemble; it is a creator of opportunities and the expression of true individuality!
We had the official start of spring on September 1st with Cairns Amateurs Ladies Day. The Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival is truly a highlight for FNQ as far as the perfect way to combine fashion, horse racing and plenty of fun with friends! Cairns Amateurs is renowned for bright colours, pushing the envelope a little with fashion trends and also having fun with the 2 day racing carnival.
The theme this year was ‘Colours of the Reef’ which truly invited fashionistas from all over the country to bring their brightest foot forward! The Major prize for Best Dressed Lady was a trip for two to Hong Kong, so truly incredible!
Ladies Day was spent in true gal pal style! Having fellow FOTF enthusiast Sophie, Carle join both myself and mum, it was honestly one of the best girl’s day out! All frocked up, having an amazing day of fashions and celebrating life and few lucky win’s on the ponies!
My outfit is another one of my faves! Channelling the bright colours that is on trend this spring and also a slight nod to the ‘Colours’ of the Reef theme, this gorgeous Dolce and Gabbana inspired apple print fabric was super fun and screaming tropical FNQ and Cairns Amateurs. With a new Milva Carucci Designs style using the spring trend off the shoulder and lady like frill this bright dress was so much fun to wear!
Complete with an amazing abstract piece by Allport Millinery that was referencing an apple peel, this headpiece was incredible and surely a standout in white and red.
Milva was also wearing a new season flounce skirt dress in a classic monochrome colour palette complete with an amazing Allport Millinery piece.
Absolutely incredible way to kick off the first day of the spring racing calendar!
Saturday 2nd was Cairns Amateurs Day though also the main race day at Birdsville Races. Complete contrasts between sunny and warm FNQ and the dust and fun out in Central Queensland. The best part about racing fashion is truly the emphasis that anyone can have the perfect outfit for any occasion!
Enjoying the festivities of Cairns Amateurs, the Italian Carnival style was where inspiration was drawn for my amazing Dolce and Gabbana ‘Ferris Wheel’ Dress. With a bold print and a subtle turban, this is one of my favourite outfits. Somewhat simplistic yet a pattern dress really can allow the fabric to do all the talking! Finished off with a white bamboo ‘Summer Nights’ clutch from Best Dressed Accessories.
Along with another MCD client Danni, pictured below in her striped horse print dress. we both made Top 10 for the Under 30's category.
A few more gorgeous client's enjoying the races in FNQ!
So amongst all the outback fun, there is always one glamour! Kacey is not stranger to the track though my gosh did she bring standout pizazz to Birdsville! Who knew someone could look this incredible in our Princess Poppy after getting ready in a 2 man tent! Yes ladies it is possible! This amazing piece was from our Spring Collaboration with Allport Millinery and The Opulent Lifestyle Collective.
See more of the amazing outfits worn by Milva Carucci Design customers! Country races to Myer State Finals, the last couple of months have certainly been a busy one!
Gorgeous ladies in their custom outfits at country races!
Never to young to express your individual style!
Stunning client's sashed, making the finals and simply encompassing amazing fashion at any age!
Captured here by Wendell Teodoro at Coogee Pavilion for the NSW Myer State Final.
Melbourne Spring Racing carnival kicked off with Derby Day and some of the gorgeous clients both in Melbourne and country races looking incredible in black and white ensembles!
Both Courtney and myself in Melbourne for Cup Day! Courtney making it through to the preliminary finals in the Fashion on the Field.
Oaks Day fun in Melbourne!
How incredible do all of these ladies look? Popping in a vision of spring colours!
I just wanted to say a huge congratulations to all of these amazing women! How you have put your outfits together, combining the talent of amazing milliners and accessories to perfection, sash winner, finalist or not, you all truly allow MCD to shine!
Finishing off this blog, both mum and I are planning on something exciting in the next month. Perfect for spring time polo, relaxed racing and ahead of 2018 Magic Millions!
For all of your Melbourne Cup carnival wrap up in detail, pop over to The Opulent Lifestyle Collective and follow to stay up to date!
Kerrie x
SCORCHING STYLE STAKES & MAGIC CLASHES
A month on and ironically South East Queensland is suffering from the exact extreme scorching heatwave conditions as we had at the Gold Coast Magic Million Races on January 14th!
East coast Australian's have almost become accustomed to shedding liters of 'sparkliness' on the daily for what feels like one of the longest, hottest summer's to date!
For those who haven't attended the Gold Coast delight of the annual Magic Mllions Races, it is a week of filled with festivities celebrating the burst of colour, fashion fun and one of the richest races in Australia! I'm sure those who did attend, enjoyed all that this Myer Fashions on the Field Queensland State Final event and all that it encompasses for a great day at the track even in the 38 degree plus heat!
Crazy! Yes some would say! Those type of conditions can only be reasoned with by spending the day in a pool, quick trip to Antarctica or simple 18 degree air con and Netflix. Though for the keen racing fashion fashionista's and punters the glistening brows were simple taken in everyone's stiletto stride!
Being the Queensland State final for Myer FOTF and a chance to take out the major title to represent our amazing home state at the Melbourne Cup Carnvial, this reign isn't taken lightly nor is the $30,000 worth of prizes! Outfits are planned months in advance and the bar is being raised every year by the standard of eye catching show stopping outfits!
THE OUTFIT
My outfit was inspired by an Italian 'La Dolce Vita' feel encapsulating colour, print clashes and boldness. Knowing fair well what the Gold Coast reputation of racing fashion is like, I preceded to scour the internet, fabric stores until finally I came across the amazing off-shore replica Dolce and Gabbana fabric. I actually fell in love! It was bold, had an amazing colour palette and also perfect weight for the style I had in mind!
A multitude of sketches later, Mum and I had confirmed a style. The fun/difficult part was just about to begin! Being an unusual panelled piece of fabric with varying widths of pattern, Mum worked her magic to create the perfectly matched up, print clash to create a streamlined, eye catching piece. Opting for an open neckline to allow space between the colour blocks and a flounce feature of the skirt complete with contrasting varied geometric prints to break the dominate floral.
The Headpiece
Having such a talented milliner and friend in your life means ALOT! I'm sure all of Sophie's clients would agree that she just 'gets you' and understands what you are trying to achieve.
After seeing the fabric and sketches we worked on tying the look all together. Opting for a new shape of an Italian vibe halo, in words of Sophie 'it reminded her of the stained glass artwork in the Italian churches' and I couldn't' agree more!
This was such an easy piece to wear, comfortable and light while having some impact. The colour and combination of roses with geometric
The accessories
With such an abundance of prominent colour throughout the fabric, I decided to try and keep the accessories as simple as possible though to playfully add texture. This was through a gorgeous pair of tassel earrings and also a pair of orange fringed tie up heels. A simple red clutch, minimal jewellery and the outfit was complete!
Print clash fun in a sneak peak flatlay
The outfit in it's entirety! Would have to be my favourite to date!
Image - Wendell Levi Teodoro
Sophie & I - both wearing custom made Milva Carucci Design outfits and Allport Millinery
Image - Allport Millinery
Sophie looking an absolute print clash vision in her custom Milva Carucci Designs outfit and pushing the boundaries in her gorgeous Kisses headpiece!
Image - Allport Milinery
Off and racing
Ashley making Top 10 in the Men's Fashion. Wearing Myer brands Politx and Jeffery Banks
Styled by me
Image - Allport Millienery
The ladies! Nothing better then a fashion fun day at the track with gorgeous friends! Gorgeous Carly (right) made the Top 10 in her gorgeous outfit and own millinery piece!
image - Ross Stevenson
Despite the heat and no luck in fashons, it was a super fun day catching up with friends, having a punt and making the most of Queensland racing!
As we approach the change of season's there is still a couple of race days left. For those last minute outfits with just a couple of more weeks left of Summer you can create a 'moment' when you step out in any of these gorgeous ready to wear range outfits. Having them custom fitted will allow you to look and feel amazing!
For now the planning is underway for Autumn/Winter Carnivals! Watch this space for a trend report straight from the runway's of fashion week!
Kerrie xx
#SPRING & SCREENSHOTS
From screenshots to the perfect wardrobe addition and all things SPRING! See how the latest trends can transpire into the perfect custom piece!
Where has this year gone? Truly though it's pretty amazing that we are sitting at the last day of winter and spring is just a mere few hours away! This time of year is simple the perfect blossoming for weddings, celebrations, spring babies, not to mention some of Far North Queensland biggest race events of the year and of course the pinnacle of Spring Racing Carnival season that commences all over the country!
So with the change of seasons and the social media feeds fastly streaming with the latest trends, we look to what is bringing creative flow to Milva Carucci Design pieces though also what trends client's are bringing as their collective of ideas and inspiration!
One of the biggest take aways from European Spring/Summer runways and also what has inspired Australian designer's spring collections are a few key components
PASTELS
OFF THE SHOULDER
CUT AWAY SHOULDER
SLEEVE FEATURES
LACE
WHITE ON WHITE
DETAILS
So with oh so many gorgeous pieces, silhouettes and fabric combinations it is no wonder that the creative minded simple are buzzing in a sea of ideas! inspiration strikes from so many different sources, a flower, the colour combination of the sky, a sunset, a particular theme, these all add value and essence to an idea.
This inspiration is what brings idea's to life!
With technology being literally at our fingertips on the constant, we can now live-stream fashion shows from attendees of runways, 'to-the-minute' uploads of a new collection or even be exposed to pre-season behind the scenes footage!
It is simple no surprise that we have all ended up in a Instagram scrolling, Pinterest screen shooting society! Having so much inspiration around it is hard not to want the latest designer's outfit or runway trends, though you have no idea how you could ever realistically afford it? Well unless you won the lotto?
Never fear!
If you have a special event that you have in mind, by consulting with a knowledgeable and experienced dressmaker they will be able to take your idea's and discuss options in a feasible way to bring these designs into a similar, perfectly fitted latest wardrobe addition.
As a client, collecting fashion inspiration images, patterns, fabrics, colour palettes and themes can assist greatly in achieving the perfect look that you are wanting to achieve. By 'painting' this overall image it allows cohesiveness for the finished outfit. Through this collection a talented dressmaker can get a good understanding about certain silhouettes that you like or fabric combinations that you're leaning towards. Adding their industry experience and expertise, fabrics can be adjusted, silhouettes can be incorporated and simple tailored or adjusted to accentuate your body shape.
Below is a fantastic winning example of a gorgeous Milva Carucci Design's client! Lucy had a few inspiration images and an overall theme that she wanted to achieve for her fashions on the field entry. Taking inspiration from those images though also using the right fabrics allowed the execution of this design to be sash worthy!
Gorgeous client Lucy wearing her custom Milva Carucci Designs dress
Winner of Contemporary Under 30 and best Millinery at Innisfail Banana Races
With HQ simply buzzing with an array of custom orders and Melbourne Cup Spring Carnival preparation is in full swing, stay tuned for the latest sneak peaks off the cutting table!
Yours in fashion
Kerrie xx
All images via Pinterest
