Sabatucci is an independent atelier based in Melbourne, rooted in heritage and guided by craftsmanship. Lovingly named after founder Sofia Stafford’s Nonna, the label honours one side of her family, while the tradition of tailoring and dressmaking comes from the other. As a fifth-generation dressmaker, Sofia’s path into fashion felt almost inevitable, shaped by a lineage tracing back to her third great-grandmother in Ireland.
Her passion began after receiving her first sewing machine from her grandmother as a young girl. Sofia went on to complete a Bachelor of Fashion Design at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), where Sabatucci first began to take shape during her graduate year.
Drawing inspiration from her time as a ballet dancer, Sofia’s fascination with costume and historical garments evolved into a design practice centred on storytelling and romanticism. Each Sabatucci piece is conceived as a character in its own right - whimsical, expressive and crafted with intention in every detail.
Offering demi-couture and custom designs alongside prêt-à-porter collections, the brand aims to encompass a holistic experience. Each piece is produced in-house, guided by a considered approach to design and ethical luxury.
Photography by Lucas Dawson