UBIQUITY: A Night of Elegance and Empowerment, Honouring Carla Zampatti’s Legacy

60 looks, 14 visionary designers, and a golden night by the Harbour that redefined power dressing.

Photography & Story by Cesar Ocampo

Last night, Sydney's Harbour glittered with more than just the reflection of the lights—it was a night to honor a legacy, and one that will be remembered for years to come. UBIQUITY, a breathtaking runway show celebrating 60 years of Carla Zampatti, captured the essence of an icon whose designs have shaped Australian fashion for decades.

As a photographer, I found myself in the perfect spot—front and center, camera in hand, ready to capture the magic. The air was thick with excitement as Australian Fashion Week 2025 delivered one of the most poignant moments of the entire event. UBIQUITY wasn’t just another show; it was a powerful tribute to a designer whose creations have empowered women, defined style, and stood as symbols of strength and grace for over half a century.

A Legacy of Power Dressing

Since founding her fashion house in 1965, Carla Zampatti became more than just a designer—she became a voice for women everywhere. From the workplace to the red carpet, weddings to politics, her designs have allowed Australian women to step into their lives with confidence, elegance, and undeniable strength.

The UBIQUITY show felt like the perfect tribute to that legacy. Sixty iconic looks hit the runway, each reflecting Carla’s timeless style. Every piece embodied the strength, grace, and quiet power that made her designs so beloved. But what made this evening truly exceptional were the 14 Australian designers invited to reinterpret Carla’s influence in their own unique ways.

Designers like @michaellosordo, @pipedwards, @toni_maticevski, and @romancewasborn brought their own flair to the runway, while staying true to the foundational principles that Carla Zampatti had instilled into the world of fashion. Each collection was a love letter to her legacy—bold, empowering, and undeniably beautiful.

The diversity and talent of these designers shone through, and seeing them pay tribute to Carla’s work added an emotional layer to the evening. There was a palpable sense of connection between the past and the future of Australian fashion, and that moment felt like something truly historic.

The Most Iconic Backdrop

If there was one thing that made this event even more spectacular, it was the setting. The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia sat perfectly on the edge of the Harbour, with the Sydney Opera House providing an iconic backdrop. As the sun dipped behind the skyline, the runway came alive in the golden hour light—a breathtaking moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the evening.

Models strutted down the runway, the breeze tousling their hair, with Sydney’s glowing skyline casting an ethereal light across the show. The show felt expansive, open, and intimate all at once. There was something magical about the way the event unfolded under the stars, with the city’s heartbeat pulsing in the background. As a photographer, it was pure magic—the kind of scene you dream of capturing. Every shot felt like it was pulled from a dream.

Guests lined the runway, many snapping photos and filming the spectacle, while others simply watched in awe. There was a collective sense of admiration and reverence in the air. The night felt timeless, as if the runway show itself was as much about Sydney’s beauty as it was about Carla’s influence on Australian fashion.

A Moment That Mattered

The UBIQUITY show was more than just a fashion event—it was a cultural moment that highlighted the depth of Carla Zampatti’s impact on Australian society. As the models walked down the runway, it was clear that her work had shaped more than just clothing—it had shaped a generation of women. Every look on the runway was a testament to the powerful women who wear her designs and the powerful women who will continue to be inspired by them.

As the evening progressed, the designs varied from sleek and tailored to flowing gowns in bold reds, elegant whites, and futuristic metallics. But the most emotional moment of the night came during the finale—where the designers themselves walked together, side by side, in a show of unity and respect for the legacy of Carla Zampatti.

Michael Lo Sordo, Bianca Spender, Alex Schuman, Alix Higgins, Kitty Willow, Jordan Gogos, Mariam Seddiq, Pip Edwards, and Akira Isogawa were among those who walked, embodying the spirit of the show and the powerful impact that Carla’s work has had on the fashion community. The runway was not only a platform for their creativity but a beautiful testament to the continuing influence of Zampatti’s legacy in Australian fashion.

Phones were raised, yes, but so were hearts. There was an unmistakable sense of pride, gratitude, and love in the air—both for Carla and for the future of Australian fashion.

Fashion That Says Something

There was an undeniable statement in the air as UBIQUITY unfolded. This wasn’t just about showcasing beautiful clothes—it was about telling a story. It was about power, identity, and culture. It was about connection. Carla Zampatti’s legacy is about more than her designs; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and empowerment for all women.

For everyone who has ever worn a Carla Zampatti creation, worked with her, or felt represented by her designs, this night belonged to them too. UBIQUITY was not just a celebration of the past—it was a bold, unapologetic look at the future of Australian fashion.

This night wasn’t just about looking back; it was about honoring the legacy and imagining what comes next. UBIQUITY was proof that Australian fashion has a bold future, one that is inspired by the incredible legacy Carla Zampatti has left behind.