SPFW: Walério Araújo pays homage to his iconic muse Elke Maravilha

This Sunday (28), the 55th edition of the Sao Paulo Fashion Week (SPFW), the most acclaimed event in the fashion world. The Stylist’s Show Walério Araújoonce again surprised and honored the iconic Elke Maravilha (1945-2016).

The homage went through various moments in Elke’s life. The phase as a judge in the program “freshman show” with Silvio Santos, was represented by the colors yellow, red and orange. The pineapple bag was in remembrance of her participation in the program “Chacrinha’s workshop“, in which she also acted as a judge. The stage as a mannequin model of Clodovil Hernandeif Zuzu Angelwas incorporated by the pastel tones.

_{Walério Araújo SPFW55 parade honors Elke Maravilha (Reproduction/Fabiano Battaglin/gshow)}

An entire collection full of jumpsuits, bodysuits, jackets, hair accessories and, on the feet, high boots and glitter, lots of glitter. On make-up, it wouldn’t be any different: shadows that fill the face with vibrant colors, faded eyebrows and voluminous hair dominated the SPFW catwalk, in addition to the rainbow colors of the LGBTQIAP+ flag.

_{Make parade Walério Araujo SPFW55 (Reproduction/ Gabriela Queiro/ Special Marie Claire)}

With each model that paraded a face of Elke Maravilha appeared, a true spectacle that the great Walério Araújo brought on the last night of shows.

Friends for many years, the stylist and Elke met when Walério was still working at a fabric store on 25 de Março Street and was already producing party dresses for drag queens and transvestites, in São Paulo.

_{Walério Araújo and Elke Maravilha. (Reproduction/ Instagram/ @walerioaraujo)}

Who was Elke Maravilha?

A woman ahead of her time, who represented several women in one, known for her fanciful, extravagant style, full of colors and textures.

Elke Georgievna Grunnupp was born on February 22, 1945, in Russia and immigrated to Brazil in the 1950s. Her artistic career began as a model, where she drew attention for her exotic beauty and platinum hair. However, Elke went beyond the catwalks and won over audiences with her charisma and multi-faceted talent. She became a remarkable presence on Brazilian TV, participating in programs such as “Casino do Chacrinha” It is “freshman show”, and many others, captivating everyone with his irreverent way and peculiar sense of humor.

_{The model and actress Elke Maravilha (Reproduction/ Pinterest)}

In addition to her television career, Elke has also acted in theatre, film and literature. Her image and unique style made her an icon of the counterculture, being recognized as one of the greatest personalities in Brazil. Elke Maravilha left a legacy of boldness, confidence and passion for art, being remembered as a true muse and a symbol of empowerment.

Featured photo: Walério Araújo fashion show, SPFW 2023. Reproduction/ Fabiano Battaglin/gshow.