Across the internet, the world premiere of the live-action Disney remake of The Little Mermaid has been making waves, particularly for the stunning looks across the red carpet.
One dress that has been gushed over is the stunning gown worn by Jodi Benson, the original voice actor in Disney’s The Little Mermaid animated movie. The handiwork of SA’s own Paolo Sebastian, one of Australia’s leading couture houses.
Specialising in custom garments made to accentuate the beauty of the individual, Jodi Benson herself reached out to the label for her World Premiere look.

In a remarkable collaboration, this gown features not just elements of the film, but it also is deep sentimental to both Benson and the designer behind Paolo Sebastian, Paul Vasileef.
It’s the little details that truly make this breathtaking garment a true work of art.
The French tulle gown features elements of the film, such as the lyrics to Part of Your World. It also includes some of Jodie’s favourite quotes and the names of the actors that worked on the original film who have since passed away.

Adding to the magic is the hand embroidery. The dress showcases an embroidered heart representing the kiss of true love. The embroidery design also is intended to mimic the ocean’s crashing waves, paying homage to the famous scene where Ariel emerges from the water onto the rocks.

“The beadwork inspiration was taken from the “Splash” Little Mermaid gown from our Once Upon A Dream Collection, which is initially how Jodi and I connected,” Vasileef recounts.
The gown’s colour was also inspired by Ariel’s fins from the original film.
Often inspired by fables and fairytales in many of his designs, Vasileef emphasises just how important this project was to him.
“It is a huge honour for me since The Little Mermaid is a film that I have grown up with and has had such a positive impact on my life. The whole team that helped create the gown are also fans of the film.”
Stepping onto the red carpet in the Paolo Sebastian dress, Jodi Benson truly embodied the beauty and whimsy of The Little Mermaid, along with the art that the Adelaide design house brings to life.
“I have always been a big fan of Jodie’s and it was a real pleasure to work with her, she is the true embodiment of a Disney Princess.”
To find out more about Paolo Sebastian, head to their website.
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