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Aussie Designer’s Stunning Gown Sparks Controversy for Mimicking Iconic Schiaparelli Dress!

BBG News

Sydney designer Velani took a lot of inspiration from Italian fashion house Schiaparelli when she designed model Hannah Dal Sasso’s frock for Glamour on the Grid last week.

The former tennis WAG turned heads in a dramatic gown as she arrived at the annual Formula One party in Melbourne last Wednesday.

However, the eye-catching strapless black dress with deep blue satin skirt she wore looked almost identical to a recent Schiaparelli creation.

Russian model Tatiana Korsakova slipped into the original design for the BAFTA Awards in February.

Velani, owned by Nicky Apostolopoulos, made subtle changes to the design, opting for a velvet corset and a darker blue skirt, but the inspiration was undeniable. 

‘We’re all inspired by overseas designers,’ she told Confidential.

‘Hannah loved the gown, I did suggest making some changes.

Instead of bowing, we tied a knot, darkened the bodice to make it blacker, and she opted not to wear gloves.

‘I love blue and black so I suggested that and it just happened that we had a fitting the day after the BAFTAS, and we saw the blue and black version on the red carpet. 

‘It was a beautiful gown and I think we did the original credit.’

Nicky went on to say taking inspiration from other designers ‘doesn’t make it copying or stealing’, adding it was a one-off custom design for Hannah. 

She replied, “I’m afraid I can’t sew you a Schiaparelli gown.

‘Yes, it was a wonderful influence and I’m not going to sit there and say I designed the gown. 

I believe we did a beautiful job paying tribute, which is exactly what Hannah appreciated, and she looked fantastic.

At the event Glamour on the Grid, Hannah appeared alongside her partner Rupert McLean, accenting her ensemble with Temelli Jewellery diamonds and being dressed by Paul Versace.

Paul shared with Confidential that he finds inspiration in various places and strives to bring something fresh and unique to every situation.

‘I think Nicky did put her own take on it, and she worked really hard on that gown too.

We followed the instructions and ended up creating an aesthetic that suited Hannah’s preferences perfectly. She looked stunning in it, radiating beauty.

Hannah’s appearance on the red carpet in the gown came just a day after she proved she had well and truly moved on from her tennis champion ex Thanasi Kokkinakis. 

After 18 months of being apart due to a long-distance relationship, the ex-WAG decided to part ways with the professional athlete, who is 28 years old, in September.

On the Ralph Lauren Fragrances Grand Prix event last Tuesday, she was spotted leaving alongside her fresh companion, Rupert.

Rupert, with a quick bond with the influential figure, is employed in finance and happens to be the child of the past Real Housewives of Melbourne celebrity, Susie McLean.

The couple met one month ago through mutual friends.

Hannah noted that they were still in the early stages of their relationship, yet she felt he comprehended her job well and it was enjoyable to attend events with him.

‘We met through our friends Izzy Armitage and her sister Riley and we’re very happy, he’s amazing.’

Hannah made her match debut alongside Rupert at Glamour on the Grid, which was also where she initially appeared with Thanasi back in 2023.

As a fervent admirer, I’d like to share that Rupert, alongside his brother Monty, is among the cherished offspring of Susie, a vibrant 56-year-old woman, and her previous spouse, Rod Butterss, who once held the esteemed position as president of St Kilda.

In February, it’s been speculated that Thanasi is involved in a romantic relationship with high-profile model Paige Henry, as they have been photographed together on multiple occasions.

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2025-03-18 03:50

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