INTERVIEW with Brisbane Fashion Month 2023 Designer - Astille
Above: Photo by Richard Smith
SD: Hi Sally, for my readers who don’t know you yet, can you please introduce yourself?
SA: Hi, I am Sallyanne Astill and I am the founder and designer behind the French inspired womenswear label Astille. I decided as a child that I wanted to be a fashion designer, but I didn’t end up following that path. I am the classic example of someone who pivoted later in life, switching careers to follow my lifelong dream and passion. I completed a Bachelor of Branded Fashion degree at Billy Blue, and started Astille when I graduated so here I am! I have always loved the way French women dress and how they style their looks, classic yet edgy, polished but casual. They are not driven by trends or labels but more the joy and challenge of creating looks that suits them. Audrey Hepburn is perhaps my greatest muse along with Inès de la Fressange once one of France’s most famous models. It is that sense of style that resonates with me, the understated glamour, that innate sexiness that all women possess.
SD: What was the biggest inspiration behind your latest collection?
SA: As you know Astille is French inspired, so most of my collections are inspired by French and European based themes. The inspiration behind my latest collection is celebrating Joan of Arc, a strong and fearless heroine. Women are after all resilient and strong.
SD: What helps you get in the zone when you’re designing?
SA: I like to allow the inspiration come naturally, and it usually does. I am inspired by places, textures, historical events and references to French culture. I design for my customer. I think about what would she love to have in her wardrobe? Would it be a much loved piece?
Above all, will she feel beautiful in it?
SD: How do you want people to feel when wearing your pieces?
SA: Sounds a little over the top but I want her to feel transformed, to feel confident and happy when wearing my pieces, to be able to take on the world for a day! Astille pieces can be worn from day to night with a change of a shoe or accessory. I want these pieces to be much loved and in her wardrobe for many years. Astille pieces are designed with sustainability and quality in mind, and ethically manufactured.
SD: What is your favourite part of being a designer?
SA: Seeing women in Astille. The thing about being a designer is I know what I like, but how will others react to my designs? All women are beautiful, I like to think that my clothes can help them express that!
SD: Without giving too much details away, what should we expect from your collection for Brisbane Fashion Month?
SA: As I mentioned, the new collection is inspired by Joan of Arc, Saint Jeanne. It is full of little nods to her heroism and bravery. This can be seen in the prints, fabric textures, the colours and finishes, all with a touch of symbolism There is a tapestry inspired print and muted tonal dyed fabrics injected with the bright colours of Cerise and Chartreuse.
I am excited to show it to everyone!
Tickets are going fast. If you want to see Astille on the runway, get your Brisbane Fashion Month 2023 tickets here
Brisbane Fashion Month Website: http://www.brisbanefashionmonth.com.au/
Brisbane Fashion Month Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brisbanefashionmonth/
Brisbane Fashion Month Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/brisbanefashionmonth/
Astille’s social media presence:
Website: http://astille-designs.com.au/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AstilleDesignsAU
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/astille_designs/
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com.au/AstilleDesigns/
Above: Photo by Richard Smith