Set to the undulating chords of a full orchestra, revered Australian designer Michael Lo Sordo showcased his Resort 2024 collection on May 15, a moment which marked the purveyor of glamour-wear’s 10-year anniversary.
Embodying Lo Sordo’s love for the cultural richness of France and its nightclubs—think the moody and mysterious after-dark scenes of Paris’ 12th arrondissements—models sauntered down the red carpeted runway at Sydney’s Carriageworks, a space bathed in a red light and with front row guests treated to gin in crystal glasses at tiny round tables with gold lamps.
Titled “Showgirls”, Lo Sordo held nothing back. In addition to his signature gowns—plunging, backless, some held together by a single sparkling pin—the designer introduced cuts in lace and velvet, a nod to fabrics found inside a Parisienne club. Crystal knit minis were a standout, while a new silhouette—a severe diagonally cut, midriff-baring gown—is sure to lapped up on the racks of Desordre.
The famous Bond 007 gown made famous by Ana de Armas in the action franchise (officially titled the “Alexandra“) was updated in a cherry colourway and a thin black lace. Elsewhere, a focus on 90s-inspired silk separates, a focus for the brand in building the wardrobe of the travelling woman.
“I live for glamour,” Michael Lo Sordo tells GRAZIA. “I have ways loved the decadence and spectacle of Parisienne nightclubs. The textures and rich fabrics which decorated these infamous clubs particularly the use of velvet, Baroque accents, and silk are all referenced in this collection. From a design perspective, the silhouettes that were seen during the 90s were a focal point for my designs.”
Menswear was a welcome surprise. In fact, the first look to open the show was a racer back singlet and leather pant combo worn by Australian-born, New York-running Jordan Barrett.
“When designing this year’s 10th Anniversary collection, I reflected on previous years and decided to introduce more separates into the collection to fill the places where I have felt there may have been gaps in the past,” says Lo Sordo. “We will also be launching poolside attire for the glamorous traveller. I think that these new and evolved categories will create a more cohesive collection and additional options to be a Michael Lo Sordo girl in everyday life and travel.”
In driving the French nightclub narrative forward (read: the big production budget), Lo Sordo indeed cemented his position as the king of glamour. I guess that’s what “living for glamour” really means.
Below, an exclusive chat with Lo Sordo.
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GRAZIA: Tell me about the inspiration behind your AAFW collection—the French nightclubs, the opulence.
MICHAEL LO SORDO: I’ve always loved the opulence of the famed Parisienne nightclubs, the way they use rich fabrics and lighting to create the mood. My 10th Anniversary collection embodies this mood and takes the wearer on the journey. In terms of design and form I looked to the 90s and the looks that dominated the scene during this time.
GRAZIA: As a creative, how does travelling expand your mind? What role does it play in inspiring your work?
MLS: Travel is one of my biggest inspirations, I love to be transported and experience different cultures, look at the history of the city and immerse myself in it. I looked to Paris this season as I have spent so much time there in the last 10 years of having my brand and continuing to have sales appointments out of there. In this collection I am also excited to be launching a Poolside aspect to the collection, these pieces are perfect to wear on glamorous holidays lounging by the ocean. I’ve also included separates as I feel like the MLS girl needs to fill in the missing pieces to her wardrobe.
GRAZIA: How do you see these pieces being worn in the wild? A glamorous sojourn in Italy? A birthday dinner? A cocktail event?
MLS: I live for glamour, dressing for fabulous parties and occasions has always been at the centre of my brand. I have been fortunate that my gowns have always been very successful and this season will not disappoint.
GRAZIA: You are also showcasing a capsule collection for men. What can we expect?
MLS: I’ve created a capsule collection of flowing silk separates excluding elegance and a sensual minimalism. I’ve personally been wearing my own menswear designs for some time and was often asked when they would go into production, I thought this show presented the perfect opportunity to launch the collection.
GRAZIA: What can we expect from the show itself?
MLS: The production of the show is designed to replicate a moody and mysterious club setting complete with a full orchestra. We have been fortunate to partner with like-minded brands such as Hendrick’s so they will be providing delicious drinks for guests to drink and celebrate this milestone occasion.
GRAZIA: Have you always loved the glamour of dressing up?
MLS: It was the main reason why I started my brand as I wanted to bring back the experience of dressing up in a great dress and enjoying the occasion.
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GRAZIA: This is your 10th anniversary. What’s been the hardest lesson you’ve learnt in the past decade?
MLS: Believing and trusting in myself and staying true to my vision
GRAZIA: What’s been the best piece of advice you’ve received?
MLS: Never settle for second best.
GRAZIA: Do you have a standout moment from the past 10 years?
MLS: I’ve had some many fond memories from the past 10 years but the highlight for me would be designing the Alexandra dress that Ana De Armas wore in the most recent 007 Bond film. The project was so mysterious as they were not able to let me know what the dress was for, but seeing Ana in the dress on the movie posters to promote the film globally was a once in a lifetime moment.
GRAZIA: How do you manage criticism? Do you take it home with you at night?
MLS: I leave everything at the door and nothing is forever
GRAZIA: How does your Australian customer embody your brand’s DNA in a way international customers don’t?
MLS: Australians have a sense of confidence and self-belief that is recognised globally. It is this kind of attitude that I want the wearer of my collections to possess and I think this market really embodies that.
GRAZIA: What rituals have you implemented into your routine in the lead-up to AAFW?
MLS: Stretch, swim, beauty regime and cold press celery juice.
This year, the GRAZIA Australia team travelled between AAFW shows in the refined style of Toyota’s new RAV4 GXL. With its modern and spacious interior, privacy glass, and fast charging portals for our phones, it was the perfect mode of travel for zipping across Sydney town. To find out more, visit toyota.com.au