The 2021 Brownlow Medal is always an opportunity to observe the Fashion on our favourite WAGS as they arrive for the red-carpet walk.
This year all eyes were on Brittany Lee Bown, partner of AFL superstar ruckman, from the West Coast Eagles, Nic Naitanui.
This year we are excited to take you on an exclusive behind the scenes, as Australian couture designer JASON GRECH, tells us the intricate details of how Brittany Bown’s couture gown, was created.
Up close and personal with designer – JASON GRECH
Please tell us the process of what’s involved in designing a Brownlow Medal couture gown.
“Dressing a client for any occasion, including the Brownlow, is about what I can do to make them the best version of themselves. Figuring out the colour, the best fit for their body shape, and what we want as the end result. Red carpet dressing is one of my passions and I’ve been doing it a long time, so I believe I understand everything that is involved…. It’s not just about the dress.”
How did you begin designing Brittany Lee Bown’s dress, obviously this is more difficult during Covid?
“This Brownlow has been extremely challenging for many reasons. I have not had the opportunity to sit and get to know Brittany, as much as I would have liked to, and being in different parts of Australia during a pandemic has logistical issues. Zoom has helped, but it’s extremely limited.
We began with Brittany providing me with her measurements, however, they only give me a percentage of what I need, to ensure the fit is perfect. Being aware of the logistical issues and their limitations, I had to work with a bodice fit, I already had. Several samples were couriered to Brittany so I could see what worked best on her, and we moved forward from there. I selected three colours that I believed would work best on her skin tone, and I discussed these with Brittany and the stylist. I loved the shade of mint, and Brittany couldn’t decide between pink and mint, so I decided to make two very similar dresses, in both colours. She tried the mint when she received it and that was the choice for the 2021 Brownlow Medal.”
Please tell us about the design and structure of the couture gown, Brittany is wearing to the 2021 Brownlow.
“Brittany is wearing a plunging V neck ball gown with a 4-tier tulle skirt. It’s a modern take on a traditional ball gown. It’s hard yet soft and extremely luxurious.”
How long has it taken to design the gown and what fabrics; embellishments were used?
“It took me a couple of days to come up with the final design. The bodice is a beautiful matt heavyweight jersey, and the skirt has over 60m of mint tulle.”
What is the thought process behind Brittany’s gown?
“I wrote four words on my design board when I started Brittany’s dress and they were Memorable, Regal, Contemporary and of course Brittany.
I struggled with Brittany because I strive for perfection. My job is to make my client look and feel her very best. I want every look and part of the way Brittany feels in the gown to be memorable and this was challenging to achieve with Brittany in another state.”
How excited are you to create a masterpiece for the Brownlow Medal?
“Red dressing is very exciting and stressful. All the stars (hair, makeup, shoes, jewellery) must align, for it to be a masterpiece. Putting this dress together during this time has really helped my mental health, as I’ve been so focused to complete this goal and challenge in only a few days.”
Was it more difficult than normal during Covid?
“Extremely. It was a different experience because I only spoke to Brittany a few times over zoom and I didn’t get to connect with her; connecting with my client is very important to me.
I have always been with my client the day of the red carpet to ensure my vision comes to life, as I imagined it, and this could not happen during our restrictions. It was very challenging, and I wouldn’t do it again unless I have someone that represents my brand with the client.”
How do you want Brittany to feel in a Jason Grech Couture gown?
“The best version of herself.”
Interview by Melinda Sullivan
Words by Jason Grech
Credits
Designer – Jason Grech
Stylist – Ramzy Nawzar, Diamonds – Rosendorff Diamonds, Shoes – By Lana Wilkinson
Hair – Jessie.Manerepublic, Makeup – Holly Garvey
Styling Assistant – Coral Carretero
Photographer – Jess Winterburn
