Mathieu Salem, Couturier & Stylist

Mathieu was born into a family with history in Australian fashion and the arts. It was this nurturing base that led to his study of Fine Arts and Fashion in Australia and London.

“Designing has been a lifelong passion of mine, beginning when I was a young boy, sitting watching my Mother and Aunts taking lengths of fabric and creating beautiful garments.”

Since leaving studies in 1986, he has worked in all facets of the Fashion Industry. From actual clothing design and production, to overseeing the design and launch of retail outlets, his career has taken him around the world.

In this time he has gained a wealth of experience in the old school techniques of draping, cutting, fit and fabric embellishment. His classic designs have seen his Australian client base extend in recent years to Europe and the Middle East, winning multiple Awards for Bridal, Evening, Race and Day wear along the way.

“I believe Couture to be an art form… an expression of creativity that fires the emotions along the way from sketch to the finished garment. Whether one wants dramatic architectural forms that skim the body, lavish excesses of silk skirts or intricate hand detailing, it’s the excitement that only a couture garment can bring the wearer, that drives and satisfies me.”

“My godmother once said of fashion that, “…though the finished garment can be an artistic work, the most important thing is always the wearer.” It’s something I have never forgotten and though clothing often can make a statement, it should only act as a frame to one’s personality and never overshadow. It is the woman that should always be memorable.”

“I have always loved design, but the greatest pleasure it brings into my world, is that of the smile reflected in the mirror, when a client sees ‘her’ vision become a reality.”

In 2006 Mathieu Salem opened his first studio at 388 High Street, Prahran Victoria.

In 2008, with Kerrie Stanley and Neil Balthasar, founded Australian Creative Collective Inc. (WACCI). WACCI’s mission is to connect people, develop ideas and harness creative energy to improve the lives of many, whilst at the same time increasing the social capital of the creative community. Mathieu is now Chairperson of the charity group.

In 2011 he plans to launch his first Ready-to-Wear range, and the story continues...