Australian fashion designer Aurelio Costarella dies aged 60

TV personalities, models and members of the fashion world have paid tribute to renowned Australian fashion designer Aurelio Costarella, who has died at the age of 60.

The self-taught fashion guru's designs featured on runways across Australia, London, Paris and New York.

Costarella had been battling a rare brain disease before his death.

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Costarella "peacefully left this world this morning to begin his journey to a new one" the announcement on social media told friends and followers.

"Sending love to all whose hearts he had touched."

Fellow Australian fashion designer Toni Maticevski shared his shock with a comment on the post.

"Oh no. Dear Aurelio rest in peace dear friend," he wrote.

He wasn't the only one paying tribute.

"How terribly sad," The Block's Shaynna Blaze commented. "Such a talent that we all adore seeing his framing the celebration of women."

Australian model Kate Peck also shared her thoughts on the "devastating" news.

"I have one of your paintings hanging on my wall. Forever in my heart and my house," she wrote to him.

Comedian and TV personality Julia Morris has worn dresses by the designer and remembered him fondly

"I am so very sad and sorry to hear this news," she said.

"From fittings in the early mid 90's to Logies gowns over the years… Aurelio was a brilliant and generous artist and designer but even more so, a gentleman of note."

Costarella's designs were worn by trailblazers in their own right including Rhianna, Tyra Banks, Dannii Minogue and Julia Gillard.  

The Perth-born designer was a reflection of many immigrant families.

His father came to Australia in 1956 with a suitcase and $20, where he worked for four years to earn enough money to bring his family over.

Inspired by his mother, Costarella sewed his first garment at the age of 10 before he later became a household name and global success.

His designs featured on runways in London, Paris and New York, which he achieved without moving away from Australia.

In addition to his achievements in the fashion world, Costarella became a proud ambassador for Lifeline WA, after he was diagnosed with depression and anxiety.

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