Australian Designer Aurelio Costarella, Who Dressed Cate Blanchett and Jennifer Hawkins, Dies at 60 from Rare Brain Disease as Tributes Roll In

Australian Fashion Icon Aurelio Costarella Dies at 60 After Rare Brain Disease Battle

Renowned Australian fashion designer Aurelio Costarella, celebrated for dressing global stars like Cate Blanchett and Rihanna, passed away at age 60 on Saturday following a short battle with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), a rare and fatal brain disorder. The Perth native’s death was announced on his Instagram account, with a heartfelt message: “RIP: Aurelio peacefully left this world to begin his journey to a new one. Sending love to all whose heart he touched.”

[Image: Aurelio Costarella smiling in a sleek black suit, showcasing his signature elegance.]

A Legacy Cut Short by a Rare Illness
CJD, which also claimed the life of his sister Gracie years prior, causes rapid brain function decline. Aurelio was surrounded by loved ones, including brother Tony and longtime partner Paul O’Connor, in his final moments. A hospital pinboard displayed career highlights and heartfelt messages from friends, reflecting his profound impact.

Celebrities Pay Tribute
Tributes poured in from stars who admired his work. TV host Narelda Jacobs called him “Perth’s gift to the world,” while Julia Morris recalled his kindness and talent, saying, “He made everyone feel like a movie star.” Singer Tina Arena and model Laura Dundovic echoed the sentiment, praising his creativity and warmth.

[Image: Aurelio with Jennifer Hawkins at a red carpet event, both radiant in his designs.]

From Self-Taught Designer to Global Sensation
Aurelio launched his career in the 1990s with boutiques in Sydney and Perth. After a brief hiatus in naturopathy, he rebranded under his birth name in 2000, quickly becoming a staple at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. His meeting with Cate Blanchett, who hailed his work in Harper’s Bazaar, reignited his passion. By 2006, he became the first Western Australian designer to showcase at New York Fashion Week.

[Image: Aurelio backstage with models, adjusting a dramatic gown before a show.]

Struggles and Advocacy
Despite his success, Aurelio faced mental health challenges, closing his label in 2017. He turned to advocacy, supporting Lifeline and channeling creativity into painting murals. His final design was a wedding gown for niece Olivia Costarella, symbolizing his enduring love for craft.

[Image: Aurelio smiling alongside Laura Dundovic, both dressed in chic, bold outfits.]

A Lasting Impact
Aurelio’s legacy lives on through his iconic designs worn by stars like Charlize Theron, Princess Mary of Denmark, and Dannii Minogue. As the fashion world mourns, his artistry and resilience remain unforgettable.

“Australia has lost a brilliant creator,” Jacobs wrote—a sentiment echoing across the industry he illuminated.

[Image: Close-up of a glittering Aurelio gown on the runway, capturing his avant-garde style.]

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