Meet Australian Style Institute’s 2026 Awards Judge, Donny Galella.
From styling A-list Hollywood stars to everyday Aussies, Donny knows that great styling is about far more than the final look.
As a celebrity stylist with almost two decades in the industry, Donny has built a career across red carpet moments, television, personal styling and the kind of confidence-building work that happens far beyond the spotlight. His work includes styling stars for Cannes Film Festival, Oscars, and Golden Globes to name a few, creating confidence in the everyday person through his personal styling business, plus appearing regularly on The Morning Show, Sunrise and others. His path reflects both the glamour and grit of fashion, from major career milestones to the long days behind the scenes that truly shape a stylist’s journey.
For the 2026 Australian Style Institute Awards, Donny joins our industry judging panel, bringing his perspective to a celebration of emerging stylists, creative direction, editorial fashion, personal style and the next generation of Australian fashion talent.
We spoke with Donny about his take on style, success, creative confidence and why backing emerging talent matters.
Read our conversation with Donny below.
What was the moment you knew fashion was the thing for you?
When I got to make a hat and meet Sophia Loren. She was my style icon growing up, and that moment early in my career confirmed I had made the right choice and gave me passion to follow my dreams.
Whose work shaped how you see style, and why?
I began when Rachel Zoe had her TV show, Trinny & Susannah and Gok Wan all had shows. I loved them all, watched them and studied them and took a bit from all of them. They were my original stylist influences. I eventually got to work with Gok, Trinny and Susannah, which was truly an amazing experience.
What has been one of your ‘moments that matter’ or a standout moment in your career?
Styling Drew Barrymore was a definite pinch me moment, it was truly a career milestone. But each day I get to help make the everyday woman feel confident, which is also incredibly gratifying.
What’s something about this industry you understand now that you wish you’d known at the start? Was there support or mentoring that assisted you?
It takes time. My journey is almost a 20 year path. There is no straight line, no clear path, no defined path. Just go along for the ride, be grateful for the blessings, be prepared to grow, evolve and learn.
When you were starting out, what would it have meant to be seen by people already established in the industry?
It would have meant a lot, and definitely would help set you apart. There was nothing like this as I was starting and establishing myself.
What do you think recognition like this means for someone early in their styling career?
It can help solidify that you’re on the right track and encourage you to keep going.
What are you hoping to find in the finalists’ work?
Someone with an amazing eye, a fabulous body of work, a unique approach to styling and would love to find someone who can be a leading industry expert in the future.
What separates good work from work that genuinely stops you in your tracks?
A really unique perspective, point of view and challenging industry norms. I want to see work that really demonstrates excellence and passion.
Success is for those who…
Are passionate, persevere, never give up, follow their dreams, chase every opportunity and be grateful for all the blessings.
Share some straight shooting wisdom with us.
Be prepared to work hard, do the crappy jobs, tape the shoes, steam, long days on set. There’s no cheat codes, take any opportunity, take any chance to grow, be a sponge around the experts and learn. 20 years on and I’m still learning and adapting and going along for the only ride. Being adaptable is key.
Follow Donny at @donnygalella
Learn more about the 2026 Australian Style Institute Awards here.
