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Carla Zampatti MBFWA Spring/Summer 2014 Show Review

See more of Marie Claire's coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia 2014

There aren’t many designers who can fill a room to capacity on a rainy Sunday evening before the madness of Fashion Week kicks in, but with 49 years experience, Carla Zampatti’s command in the industry is unparalleled.

As this year’s Mercedes-Presents designer, Zampatti is one of Australia’s most prized: she’s honed an exceptional brand that has stood the test of time in an often-fragile industry.

“It’s remarkable that the brand is still going so strong but I guess if you practice something for a long time you get better at it,” Zampatti said before her show. “If you do what you love, you will succeed as you get more confident and daring.”

Zampatti’s show seemed to be just that: the designer sent an array of boldly cut, heavily textured separates down the runway, with fluid silks sitting comfortably next to streamlined silhouettes.

Models wore futuristic headgear in conjunction with flowing dresses and fur vests in a bold colour palette of green, red and blue. For those with more monochrome tastes, a divine range of cut-out black dresses in bodycon shapes and elaborate white gowns fit for the modern bride were also on the menu.

It was signature Carla, with a twist: when model Rachel Rutt paraded down the runway in a pair of tightly-cut lace pants, there was an audible sigh of admiration from the audience.

“It was a very slick and modern show,” commented marie claire’s fashion director, Jana Pokorny. “Carla always does such beautifully and precisely cut pant - the flare was a new angle for her – it was nice to see a modern take on what she does so well.”

Zampatti, who said it was an “honour” to be the 2014 Mercedes-Benz presents designer, added that the fashion industry seemed to breathe new life lately, with her clients “more excited than ever” to devour her designs.

“It really highlights to me that fashion touches people’s lives in a very serious way,” said Zampatti. “Fashion is not an insider sport any more; it’s democratic. I love that anyone can join the conversation.”

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Carla Zampatti MBFWA 2014 runway photos