By Olivia Newman
Everyone knows the feeling of pre-awards night chaos.
Excitement to catch up with teammates and celebrate the season that was is often numbed by the scramble to find an outfit that strikes the perfect balance of classy, stylish and flattering, whilst also comfortable enough for a late-night dance.
And on Saturday Origin Diamonds players Amy Parmenter and Kiera Austin were treated to a styling session at the Styling Suite at Westfield Doncaster; the ultimate solution to the inevitable pre-event wardrobe crisis, ahead of the Australian Netball Awards.
Despite being two of the best netballers in the world, both players confessed getting glammed up has them out of their comfort zone.
“I love getting glammed up, because it doesn't happen very often and I don't recognize myself,” Austin said.
Parmenter echoed Austin’s comments, and agreed that more often than not, she’s dressed in activewear.
“I'm more of an activewear, casual girly. Occasionally it's nice to get dressed up but I prefer to be a bit more casual,” Parmenter said.
Ahead of the Netball Australia Awards, the pair met with Westfield stylist Victoria Tomaro for some personalised styling advice to help them to enhance their individuality on the red carpet.
These two Diamonds admit they don't often get glammed up.Kiera Austin opted for a cobalt blue Rebecca Valance mini number, branching out from her usual style choices. The Melbourne Vixens goaler accessorised the outfit with shoes from Myer’s collection and a Forever New clutch.
Melbourne Mavericks Captain Amy Parmenter rocked a classy black maxi dress from Pilgrim. The strapless corset style was complemented by Ravella shoes and bag, which got some airtime on stage when she was awarded the inaugural ANPA Spirit of the Game award.
During the hair and makeup process, they touched on the challenges that 2025 brought.
"Even though we lost the Grand Final, I think that game has been one of the pinnacle games in my career. I learnt a lot from that game and hurt a lot from that game. I don't think I'm over it still,” Austin said.
For Parmenter, it was a year of unknowns.
“It was a really scary move to come to Melbourne to play for a team that barely had a uniform, coach or any players and to come fifth... especially with some adversities during the year, I'm just so proud of the group that I've been a part of,” Parmenter said.
When asked about their experienced in the Westfield Doncaster Styling Suite, Parmenter said she “loved it” and learned that her and Austin have completely different fashion sense.
“But both the dresses are beautiful in their own right,” she said.
Shop Kiera and Amy’s looks at Westfield Doncaster and experience the Styling Suite for yourself!
Featured retailers include Sheike, Rebecca Valance, Myer (Pilgrim, Azurielle, Ravella, Forever New, Olga Berg, Pink Inc, Sandler, Nina).
Austin and Parmenter shone at the Australian Netball Awards.