Year: 2009

Adeline André Couture – Fall 2009

The most interesting couture presentation was done by Adeline André. It consisted of one look for men and one look for women. To demonstrate her patented three-armhole design (and reveal just how much fabric went into each piece), the four items, including a shirt, jacket and coat for men, were first pegged on a clothesline before being donned by the models. The women’s look, a layered silk crepe dress merging from flesh color tones to pinks and reds, took minutes to put on as meters of fabric and a staggering 21 armholes were wound around. “I wanted to show my work, and the history of the armholes, in a very precise way,” André said. (source: WWD.com). I love the performance art aspect of this collection and the garment itself. The layers of colours gradually moving from light to dark is a nice touch. images: wwd.com

i got: Neon Nails

I went with friends to their regular nail salon in the Yonge and Lawrence area called Cozy Nails. It’s not in my area of town but I was curious and the price was right, $40 + tax for a mani and pedi. I always get the obnoxious nail polish. It used to be the metallics and dark blues. I went super obnoxious, the Essie neon collection. Perky Purple and Funky Limelight were like beacons guiding me to the colour wall. Funky Limelight for the hands and Perky Purple for the toes. The service at Cozy Nails was excellent. There were two girls working on me at once so it was very quick service. We sat in large black chairs with all the massaging extras. A number of drinks are available for purchasing including teas and smoothies. They also have a nail drying station with fans for both hands and feet. I was very pleased with my manicure and pedicure. The pedicure is still looking fresh a week later. The manicure doesn’t unfortunately and it was …

Givenchy Haute Couture – Fall 2009

Givenchy Haute Couture, Hot Damn. I’m always excited to see what is going to come out of Riccardo Tisci. Here is a young man that is keeping the tradition of couture alive. This collection was heavily influenced by Morocco. The details were just incredible on the clothes and man on the models. I died when I saw those gold crystallized faces. This is my Haute Couture show of the season. I’m calling it now. I’ve gone crazy with the photos so you can see what I’m gushing about. I’m hoping the rest just get better after Givenchy. Check out Jak&Jil for some amazing shots. images: Style.it and WWD.

Christian Lacroix Haute Couture – Fall 2009

The Christian Lacroix show felt like a funeral to me. It was very dark with a lot of black instead of his usual explosion of colour. I imagine darkness was unavoidable for what could be the last Christian Lacroix Haute Couture collection. Hell, it could be the last Christian Lacroix collection ever. Haute Couture was touch and go, many were worried that it wouldn’t happen. However, the most amazing thing happened. All of Lacroix’s friends, suppliers and employees donated their time and materials. The collection was done for free. What an amazing tribute. Check out this video which talks more about how the collection came about. I admit that Lacroix has never been one of my favourite couturiers but his mastery of the medium is undeniable. I hope he doesn’t leave the stage just yet as it would be a huge disservice to the whole industry. That knowledge needs to be passed on. Christian Lacroix Forever! images: Style.it and PIERRE VERDY/AFP/Getty Images