Month: March 2011

Greta and Ezra Constantine Fall Winter 2011 – 2012

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I had a little peek of a few items from the collection at various times prior to the show. First visit was jersey dresses and the second visit was the long melton wool kimono inspired jackets. There was talk of velvet in the studio as I swung the jacket over my shoulders. Greta in velvet, I thought, that could be interesting. Little did I know that velvet would be everywhere this Toronto Fashion Week. Kirk and I talked about the inspiration which included the Orient and a link between past and future.       The show was back at Audi. I like the venue but it’s shitty to take pictures in. Of course, torontolife.com captured the entire Greta Constantine Fall Winter 2011 – 2012 collection. They have a great photographer that got way better shots than me. The collection surprised me in a good way. It wasn’t just jersey dresses; Kirk and Stephen were dressing for a Canadian winter. Greta Constantine’s Fall Winter 2011 – 2012 collection is romantic and sultry. The colours were …

The Heart Truth Fashion Show Fall Winter 2011 – 2012

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I made a last minute executive decision to skip The Heart Truth Fashion Show. I went to see Rita Liefhebber’s Fall Winter 2011 – 2012 collection at Jonathan+Olivia instead. I was more intrigued with what Rita would be producing for fall. Their PR team followed up with a link to the livestream feed if you are interested in checking out the action. Canadian celebrities strutted the catwalk tonight modeling one-of-a kind red dresses by top Canadian fashion designers to raise awareness about women’s risk for heart disease and stroke at the fourth annual Heart Truth Fashion Show. “We’re reaching Canadian women with this lifesaving message: it’s time to take charge of your heart health”, says Bobbe Wood, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. “Make healthy lifestyle choices, monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and advocate for the care you need from your doctor. And to Canadian men, we say support the women you love to protect their heart health.” Andrea Martin wearing Farley Chatto, Arlene Dickinson wearing Izzy Camilleri, Bal Arneson …

Arthur Mendon̤a Fall Winter 2011 Р2012

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Arthur Mendonça presented a very 70s Fall Winter 2011 – 2012 collection at the Trump Tower.  “Wow, there are a number of looks” is the first thing that popped into my head as I sat in my seat and skimmed the linesheet.   I knew Dean Davidson was one of Arthur’s collaborators but I had no idea that Liliput Hats were too.  The pairing was wonderful.  Everything worked so well together.  The makeup did the job of portraying the glamorous 70s à la Studio 54.  It was beautiful Dean’s jewellery centred on the bar shape and his signature brushed finish applied. They are minimal in style. Lilliput Hats created fedoras and lux turbans in velvet and sequined silk. Arthur often referenced with Tom Ford and YSL in the media but I think his homage to Denis Gagnon (black tux photo) is much more interesting to talk about. Now, I don’t know if it was done on purpose. It’s just the first thing that popped into my head when I saw the model walkout. I thought …

i want: Drawstring Parka by Muttonhead Apparel

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Muttonhead Apparel started following me on twitter. When a clothing company follows me I usually check out their site to see what’s up. I was pretty intrigued as the are based in Toronto and they are doing a unisex line. The Drawstring Parka parka caught my eye. I can’t get enough of parkas. It’s made out of hemp, organic cotton, recycled leather and denim.  There are a variety of colours: the traditional army green, olive, black and maroon.  There is also a maroon option in a waterproof breathable fabric that is listed as Epic. You can purchase Muttonhead in Toronto at The Future of Frances Watson 1390 Queen Street West Or at their studio by appointment (email info@muttonheadcollective.com) 163 Sterling Road, Unit 9B

Mikhael Kale Fall Winter 2011 – 2012

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A common complaint I hear about Mihkael Kale’s clothing is wearability. I should think that after four years people would understand that Mihkael designs are not for everyone and I don’t think he will be going in a mass direction anytime soon. There are many things I can’t wear due to design, shape or price. That doesn’t stop me from enjoying them aesthetically. I like niche designers, they keep things interesting. I’ve referred to Mihkael as a designer who can throw everything and the kitchen sink at something and make it look incredible. Fall Winter 2011 – 2012 featured crystal and pearl encrusted details, chain embroidered roses and sequined bodices. There was a lot of skin in Mikhael’s collection. You’d almost think it was a spring collection. Cutouts incorporated resembled bondage to me. Amazing there wasn’t one bare midriff in all the skin. Caucasian nude fabric played peak a boo with one oxblood dress with chain embroidered roses. At first glance I thought the fabric was flesh.  Thankfully there were some coats and pants to …

Alexander Berardi Fall Winter 2011 – 2012

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I sneaked away from taking photos at the Philip Sparks fall winter 2011 – 2012 presentation to pop down to the 4th floor of the Burroughs Building to check out the Alexander Berardi Fall Winter 2011 – 2012 collection. Jessica Jensen was hosting Alexander Berardi as he showed off his fall winter 2011 – 2012 wears to buyers and media for three days in Toronto. This season’s inspiration finds its beginnings in Ali MacGraw and the 1970 hit movie “Love Story”, set in snowy New England. The Berardi girl loves the city, but she’s no stranger to laying about the fire at her country house with friends, and she needs to be ready for both worlds. Once again, Alexander has us excited for eclectic pairings of long standing fashion staples. Always classic with a modern twist, this season is about making the old new again; reinterpreting the winter jacket with special wood beading embroidery; reinventing plaid prints in modern cuts for a perfect Upper East Side school girl look; and reviving vintage knitwear for a …

Mark Fast Fall Winter 2011 – 2012

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Mark Fast returned to Canada and presented a tightly edited version of his London Fashion Week fall winter 2011 – 2012 collection. This was the first time he has presented a fashion show in Canada. The fall winter collection was the debut of his collaboration with Canadian leather retailer Danier. This was one of three shows presented at the Trump Tower Toronto which is still under construction. “Things are not what they seem to be, they are mysterious and disguised. I used the energy of the movement of a wolf’s vicious anger to be projected into the cuts of knitted pieces and leather garments. I am using merino wool and elastomeric mixes in the knitted dresses. I wanted to create a softer, warmer silhouette. I also used leathers to evoke the strictness and attitude of this women”. – Mark Fast (from press release) It was a total delight to see the knitwear wizard’s collection up close. The knits are so intricate and I loved the play on textures. Wool, alpacha, merino, mohair joined with nylon, …

Philip Sparks Fall Winter 2011 – 2012

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The week before the official LG Fashion Week is always getting bigger and better. The Fall Winter 2011 – 2012 edition was packed with big names and a comeback. I dubbed the week Toronto Extended Fashion Week a few seasons back but it seems that Rogue Fashion Week has cemented itself as the name. I like it. Philip Sparks Fall Winter 2011 – 2012 kicked things off. Philip asked me participate in the show by taking photos of the action backstage and beyond. Olympus Canada sponsored the Philip Sparks fall winter 2011 – 2012 show so each insider was handed a new Olympus PEN E-PL2. (You can check out the photos on the Olympus Canada facebook page.) Regular readers know I’m a fan of the E-PL1 and it has taken many shots I’ve posted on this site. I was itching to play with the E-PL2. Philip Sparks fall winter was all about Canadian winter and activities like skating, skiing and tobogganing. The collection wasn’t new to me. I saw it in the various stages of …

Eternal Sunrise: A Benefit for Japan – March 30, 2011

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Eternal Sunrise: A Benefit for Japan – March 30, 2011 Fundraiser features Performance from Jully Black, DJ sets Brendan Canning (Broken Social Scene), DJ Shine (Nelly Furtado), Dubmatix (2009 Juno Nominee) The Makeover (Jeremy Glenn & Rod Skimmins), Nate Wize (Sony Music), Baby Joel Smye (Footwork Nightclub), Jeff Kirkwood (Byzantium), Agile (Brass Munk), Addy (Hi Bias Records) and Iron Horse (Pawn Shop Records) On Wednesday, March 30, 2011, Eternal Sunrise: A Benefit for Japan will take place at Revival Bar at 783 College Street. MuchMusic’s Sarah Taylor will host the event in support of Plan Canada’s relief efforts in Japan. The evening will also feature a food stand from Caplansky’s Smoked Meats, a raffle and silent auction with more than 50 different items up for bid such as Raptors vs Heat Tickets, gift baskets, concert tickets, jewelry, dinner gift cards, clothing, artwork and much more. Auction items will be available to take home that night, and are payable by cash or credit card. The auction ends at midnight and winners will be announced immediately after. …

i want: Mismo Backpack

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Mismo is a Danish company that makes some pretty slick handbags.  I like the schoolboy preppy look of this backpack. There are no Mismo retailers in Canada but you can buy them online at Opening Ceremony. images: openingceremony.us

I want – I got takes Vancouver and Whistler – Visiting Orb Clothing

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During the Vancouver portion of my trip, I visited Orb’s Vancouver flagship store and headquarters. Orb is a Vancouver based women’s sport lifestyle clothing line that started in 2001. Orb is part of the Global Collective Design company, established by Vancouverites by Glenn Taylor and Leslie Lee in 1992. The Global Collective Design company now has two labels that they design and produce: Arson and Orb.  The two brands also have sub brands Orion and Orb Outerwear. Orb is empowered. The intent of Orb is to inspire all to live empowered lives of generosity; creating and attracting brilliance, beauty and well-being. The Orb design triad of mind, body and soul represents an active, fashion-forward lifestyle, designed to enhance the momentum of people engaged in living purposeful lives – to live like you mean it! Orb is very big on corporate responsibility and have implemented ways of reducing waste in their business practices. You can read more about those initiatives on the Orb website. They also have manufacturing initiatives to reduce harmful chemicals. They also incorporate …

Mary Katrantzou Fall Winter 2011 – 2012

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I pretty much ignored fashion during my Whistler vacation and I`m still catching up. It`s hard to believe but true. Mary Katrantzou`s fall winter 2011 Р2012 collection was amazing, as always. She used Chinese porcelain, Faberg̩ eggs, Meissen and coromandel screens as influences in this collection. I usually don`t associate Mary Katrantzou with great pants but there where some nice ones this season. The clothing is such a visual delight and even the shoes got in the act. images: vogue.com

|FAT| Model Call, March 27, 2011

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On Sunday March 27th , |FAT| invites men and women of all shapes, sizes and ethnicities to audition for a chance to rock the runway for over 50 designers during four days of events at |FAT| 2011. From 12-6pm at 60 Atlantic Avenue, |FAT| will welcome 200 of Toronto’s most passionate, diverse and engaging beauties. |FAT| prides itself on its progressive and unconventional approach to beauty by encouraging diversity on the catwalk and showcasing models who are true representations of the men and women in our city. While a kick-ass strut is still the key requirement, |FAT| encourages models who can engage the public and inject their personalities into the clothing. 2011 will mark the sixth edition of Toronto Alternative Arts and Fashion Week. With this year’s theme titled “Fashion Schematics,” FAT reinterprets the messages, systems, schemes and symbols inherent in the notion of fashion. “When it comes to the runway, models are the essential messengers who communicating the designers vision. They give meaning to the clothing and depict narratives to the audience through their …

Success is Chic: Making it in the fashion industry, March 24, 2011

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Success is Chic: Making it in the fashion industry March 24, 2011 Discussion Theme: Opportunities & How to succeed in the fashion industry.. Hear from fashion designers and other industry professionals on what you need to do to prepare for a successful career in the fashion industry. Learn what else can be done to nurture the development of a successful indigenous fashion industry.. Panelists: • Ben Barry, Founder & CEO, Ben Barry Agency • Brandon R. Dwyer, Creative Force & Designer, BASCH • Cynthia Florek, Brand & Trend Director, Sears Canada • Susan Langdon, Executive Director, Toronto Fashion Incubator • Shawna Robinson, Co-Founder & Co-Designer, LABEL Media Interviewers: • Julie King, Publisher & Managing Editor, CanadaOne.com • Sean Stanleigh, Editor, Your Business, The Globe & Mail Location: The Drake Hotel, 1150 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M6J 1J3 T: 416.531.5042 www.thedrakehotel.ca Time(EST): • 5:00pm-6-00pm: Registration & Networking • 6:00pm-7:00pm: Panel Q & A and Live Interactive Webcast • 7:00pm-8:00pm: Networking Registration: Registration: www.directengagement.com $20 registration for members $25 advance $30 day of registration at the …

Elle Canada’s 10th Anniversary Party

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Elle Canada had their 10th Anniversary a few weeks ago and of course held a party. I wore a dress from the Greta Constantine spring summer 2011 collection. I was going for a total monochromatic red look but I was missing the red handbag and shoes. I need to rectify that big time. There was a video made from the night and I made the final cut. See 1:45. I’ve place the video after the jump because it autoplays. Check your sound levels too before checking it out.

Ela Handbags

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Ela is a new Canadian handbag line that I’ve just been introduced to. I met co-founders Ela Kowalewska and Martin Aldorsson at Dark Horse cafe where I got a chance to chat and see the line in person.  I really liked what they had to show me. The basis of ela is the idea of humble luxury, where refined and sophisticated silhouettes strive to showcase, rather than upstage, the wearer. From subtle asymmetry to luxe hardware and leather, every design element is infused with a high level of craftsmanship, materials and a signature aesthetic. The collection is small but focused. The handbags are on the minimal side of things but they all share the signature Ela leather closure. The leather is lovely and there are a few different finishes to choose from.  I like the pebbled leather the best. The MILCK clutch is a big enough for a night out that includes a camera and smartphone. It comes in a variety of colours and finishes. There are also some tote bags. I like the more …

John Allan’s Club at The Bay, Queen Street Launch Party

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I attended the opening party for the John Allan Club at The Bay on Queen Street. The John Allan Club is a membership based men’s grooming club where all aspects of male grooming are taken care of by expert staff. The Bay John Allan Club is first international location and the sixth overall. John Allan was in attendance along with Bonnie Brooks and one of the Bachelors from that horrible, horrible Bachelor series. I think he’s following me because I saw him again while I was out last week, ha ha. I don’t need to be in close proximity to anyone on that show. Anyways, John talked for a bit and I decided to record some video.

Line Spring Summer 2011 Top Picks

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I really enjoyed the Line Spring Summer 2011 collection at LGFW in October of last year. John and Jennifer decided that it was time to take Line forward and produce a whole collection of separates and dresses instead of just knits. The verdict is in, and they do a good bottom. These are my top Line picks from the Spring Summer 2011 lookbook. I’m really loving the leather shorts. images: courtesy of Line