My school teacher, Mrs Durrington, at Leumeah High School in Campbelltown [in south-west Sydney] taught me textiles and design, among other general subjects. She was a huge inspiration as she nurtured my creativity. We are still in touch.
I had a big crush on Kylie Minogue as a 13-year-old. I had posters of her on my bedroom
walls. I first noticed her in the Locomotion video clip and, of course, in Neighbours; I
loved the wedding dress she wore when she got married on the show.
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I never discussed my sexuality with my mother or sisters. I always knew about my sexuality ever since I was young and have been quite comfortable with it. I was in a long-term relationship with a guy for 10 years and travelled with him to Italy. When I returned [in 2015], Mum asked me if he was a boyfriend. My sisters, who were sitting at the table at the time, said, βGo on, tell her, she knows.β She loves me unconditionally.
I have been with my partner, Ryan Patros, who is from Los Angeles, for five years. He is a fashion designer who also makes evening gowns and bridal dresses. We met before COVID, and had plans for him to come to Sydney, but the borders shut, and we did long-distance dating for two years. He lives in Australia now, and weβre engaged and talk about getting married.
When it comes to designing bridal gowns, I am inspired by old Hollywood glamour. I love Elizabeth Taylorβs cream-coloured satin wedding gown from her first marriage, and Mariaβs wedding dress in The Sound of Music. But it has to be Princess Dianaβs wedding dress that I keep going back to for inspiration.
Steven Khalil will present the Melbourne Fashion Festival Grand Showcase on March 7.
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