As Delta Goodrem prepares to represent Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 with her anthem Eclipse, her performance look is already generating major attention for its striking couture design, celestial symbolism and extraordinary craftsmanship.
At the centre of the visual spectacle is a custom-made gown created by Sydney couture label Velani by Nicky in collaboration with House of Emmanuele, blending mythology, glamour and emotional storytelling into one dramatic Eurovision creation.
Designed by Greek Australian couturier Nicky Apostolopoulos, the illusion tulle gown features approximately 7,000 Swarovski crystals and required around 500 hours of craftsmanship.
“So we designed that eclipse that protects her heart space and is like a shield,” Nicky told AussieVision. “There’s this quite beautiful meaning behind the whole gown — gold obviously being the sun, silver being the moon.”
The gown’s centrepiece — known as the “Heartspace Burst” — was handcrafted by longtime collaborator Emmanuel Tsakiris, who spent seven days constructing the elaborate crystal structure using 222 Swarovski crystals and 888 hand-set claws.
“When I think of Delta, I naturally see her as a powerful force with a deep sense of spirituality and emotional presence,” Emmanuel said. “My intention was to create a piece that felt like a living, beating chakra at the centre of her body, radiating power, love and light outward into the performance.”
The pair said the design was intended to evoke both vulnerability and strength, drawing inspiration from mythology, divine femininity and celestial imagery.
Nicky also revealed the gown had to be built with durability in mind due to Eurovision’s demanding rehearsal and performance schedule.
“The gown had to have wearability to it as well,” she said. “It wasn’t just a one-off.”
Both designers have a long creative history with Delta. Nicky previously designed gowns for the singer’s concerts and milestone celebrations, while Emmanuel has collaborated with her since 2012 on performances including The Voice and Mardi Gras appearances.
