Our Exclusive Resort ‘25 Preview & Styling Event
Our Hawthorn East Studio came alive as we welcomed our OW Society VIP Members for an intimate afternoon of connection, conversation, and style.
The Resort ‘25 Preview & Styling Suite was such a special moment, the first of its kind since launching the OW Society Membership, and a chance to share what we love most about OnceWas: timeless design, beautiful craftsmanship, and a sense of community that goes far beyond fashion.
VIP guests and OW Society Top Tier members gained exclusive invitations to enjoy a first look at the Resort ‘25 Collection, guided by Director and Head Designer Belinda Abbott, who spoke about the inspirations behind the pieces and her favourite ways to style them.
“I absolutely loved having everyone here in the studio,” Belinda said. “There’s such a different energy when you get to share the collection in person, talking through the fabrics, the prints, the fit, and seeing women light up when they find something that just feels right on them.”
A highlight of the day was the collaboration with local milliner Lauren Ritchie, whose exquisite headpieces helped guests see how to complete full racing and event-ready outfits, adding a polished, elegant touch to the Resort ’25 looks.
With both Classic and Petite models showcasing looks from the Spring and Resort collections, guests saw firsthand how each piece was designed to move beautifully and flatter different shapes. “Our Petite range is something I’m really proud of,” Belinda shared. “It came from listening to our customers, women who loved our designs but wanted the same pieces made to fit their proportions properly. Seeing the Classic and Petite styles side by side today just felt really rewarding.”
The afternoon was filled with personal styling sessions, laughter, and champagne, creating a relaxed, inspiring space where women could explore the collection and connect with each other.
“It’s honestly my favourite part of what I do,” Belinda smiled. “Bringing women together, hearing their stories, helping them find something that makes them feel confident… it’s such a joy. That’s what OnceWas is all about.” Belinda also took a moment to thank those who helped make the event so memorable. “A huge thank you to Lauren Ritchie for her stunning millinery. Her pieces added such a beautiful touch to the day, and to our amazing OnceWas team who made everything come together so seamlessly.”
This event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the OW Society Membership, a growing community of women who appreciate thoughtful design and the experience of discovering collections before anyone else. It highlighted the members-only benefits of the Society, offering intimate previews, personal styling advice, and curated experiences that are truly unique for women who love thoughtful, inclusive, and inspiring fashion.
Limited to OW Society members, now is the perfect time to join and secure access to future events, styling sessions, and early collection previews. We can’t wait to host more experiences like this, continue celebrating the women who inspire everything we do, and here from you! OW x
Left to right: Victoria Tomaro and Franki Mazzeo wearing the Leandro Contrast Lace Linen Viscose Stretch Blazer in Azure Mosaic & Leandro Contrast Lace Linen Viscose Stretch Pant in Azure Mosaic, Brenna Grace wearing the Carmen Cotton Silk Maxi Dress in Azure Mosaic, Jo Hall wearing the Selini Braided Neck Viscose Chiffon Blouse in Celosia Pink & Pandorea Viscose Yoke Skirt in Plume Blossom, Rita Havea and Zoe Geroge wearing the Thalassa Embroidered Cotton Silk Flutter Sleeve Top in Blue Topaz and the Leandro Contrast Lace Linen Viscose Stretch Pant in Azure Mosaic.
Left to right: The Maysa Viscose Dress in Oasis Flora in Classic and Petite sizing, Amira One Shoulder Tie Placement Print Viscose Dress (coming soon) and Malika Viscose Dobby Contrast Bind Flutter Sleeve Dress (coming soon), Rimal Cotton Silk Maxi Dress in Marrakech Topaz in Classic and Petite sizing.
Left to right: Kerri Robertson wearing the Carmen Cotton Silk Maxi Dress in Anthos Lótos, Nicky Buckley wearing the Luma Cotton Silk Flutter Sleeve Top in Golden Medina and Willow Linen Viscose Pant in Golden Medina, Biana O'neil wearing the Alexis Linen Viscose Fringe Shirt in Petinos Floros & Zenobia Viscose Fringe Midi Skirt in Petinos Floros, Franki Mazzeo wearing the Leandro Contrast Lace Linen Viscose Stretch Pant in Imperial Stone and Leandro Contrast Lace Linen Viscose Stretch Blazer in Imperial Stone, Linda Cerny wearing the Aurora Reversible Linen Viscose Jacket in Golden Medina / Marrakech Topaz and Willow Linen Viscose Pant in Golden Medina.
Left to Right: Roopa Gulati wearing the Aurora Reversible Linen Viscose Jacket in Golden Medina / Marrakech Topaz and Willow Linen Viscose Pant in Golden Medina, Zoe George and Rose in Style wearing the Pandorea Viscose Yoke Skirt in Plume Blossom and Delray Reversible Cupro Cami in Plume Blossom, Crystal Kimber wearing and Amira One Shoulder Tie Linen Viscose Dress in Golden Medina.
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