28-05-2025
Simone Holtznagel steps out solo in maroon frock with racy cutout at Léays underwear launch after sparking romance rumours with Dina Broadhurst's ex Max Shepherd
Simone Holtznagel knows how to rock a frock.
The model and mum-of-one stepped out for the Léays underwear launch at Aria restaurant in Sydney on Wednesday night looking stunning in a maroon gown.
The 31-year-old's dress sat close to her figure and featured a maxi length that trailed along the floor and sheer sleeves, as well as a cutout at the hip.
She wore her hair in an up do with loose strands around her face and hose a natural makeup look with a pink lip stain.
Simone finished her ensemble with a designer purse and earrings while keeping the rest of her accessories light.
Simone appeared to go solo to the dinner event despite news that she appears to have found love again.
The stunner recently sparked romance rumours with Dina Broadhurst's Eastern Suburbs property developer ex-boyfriend Max Shepherd.
According to The Sunday Telegraph, Simone was seen cosying up to Max at Justin Hemmes' Silver Party charity gala, fuelling speculation that the pair are quietly dating.
While the relationship is still in its early stages and yet to be made official, sources tell the publication that the two are already 'smitten' and have been spending lots of time together.
Simone is no stranger to headlines – especially since her high-profile breakup with celebrity trainer Jono Castano, with whom she shares a daughter.
The pair ended things last year after a tumultuous on-off relationship.
Meanwhile, Max Shepherd, 32, has carved out a name for himself in the property world and was previously linked to Broadhurst, a famed Sydney-based artist known for her nude self-portraits and edgy art installations.
He also dated US actress Vail Bloom.
Interestingly, Simone doesn't appear to be Max's usual type – with the developer historically gravitating towards older, brunette women, a far cry from Simone's signature blonde bombshell aesthetic.
The timing of the romance comes as Max and his ex Dina are in the process of offloading their multimillion-dollar Rose Bay apartment, which they purchased together in 2022 for $5.2 million.
The luxury two-bedroom, two-bathroom property was initially listed in November with an eye-watering price tag of $11.5 million after undergoing a dramatic high-end renovation.
But six months on, the price has been slashed to $8.4 million, according to property records.
Simone's younger sister Madeline Holtznagel is currently dating hospitality tycoon and Merivale CEO Justin Hemmes, 51, and they're expecting their first child this month.
Simone previously dated celebrity personal trainer Jono, 34, before the pair ended things late last year.
Jono has since moved on with Love Triangle star Emily Ryder, with the two debuting their relationship on social media.
Earlier this month Jono was spotted enjoying a romantic night out with Emily at the Sydney Opera House.
In a moody black-and-white clip filmed during their outing, the couple looked completely smitten as they paused on a grand staircase under dramatic lighting.
In the footage, the fitness guru was seen planting a kiss on his girlfriend's lips as they posed for a cute photo together.
The pair have reportedly been dating for several months and are taking things 'very slowly'.
Sources close to the couple say Jono and Emily bonded over their shared passion for fitness and adventure, and are often seen working out together.
