All posts filed under: Canadian Designers

DX Intersection – November 16, 2012

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DX Intersection – November 16, 2012 Design Exchange celebrates its relaunch as Canada’s Design Museum with an unprecedented experience: creative disciplines and cultures converge in a large-scale blowout featuring a selection of Canada’s most iconic designers, architects, chefs, filmmakers, and artists. Multiple DJs will fill the multi-level venue with energizing tunes, brought to you by Embrace. The Toronto-based trio behind Keys N Krates will take the stage with their blend of hip hop, electronica, and jam that truly shows off the artistry of live remix. Celebrity chefs and mixologists will conjure up offerings that are as visually appealing as perfectly balanced for the palate. Designers and artists will create installations that evoke question and intrigue. Whimsical balloons will float through the air as guests are enticed to participate in an amusement park-style raffle with unprecedented prizes. A silent auction will allow 20 lucky guests to walk away with custom creations. As the end of the evening draws near, late night guests will be rewarded with a food market in the Link, inside the lobby of …

Evan Biddell SS 13

TFW Spring Summer 2013 – Evan Biddell

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Evan Biddellwas one of my must see shows during the Spring Summer 2013 World Master Card Fashion Week in Toronto. This was my must see show of the week. I planned to drop Tuesday from my fashion week plans as it conflicted with the New Order concert but I couldn’t miss Evan. He took a break from fashion week after the amazing Kingdom collection of Spring Summer 2011. aMUSE, is the title of the Spring Summer 2013 Evan Biddell collection. “This collection isn’t about fads or colour trends, it’s about a girl and her multi-faceted personalities.” says Biddell, “her style is bipolar of sorts, she doesn’t care what other people are wearing, nor does she care if you approve of what she is wearing.”(Source:Press Release) The show began with a short film created by Evan and Atomic Clock Cinematic Arts Inc. I’m not a big fan of screening a short film before a show. It’s usually hard to see and people can only pay attention for so long when they can’t see. Thankfully the USB …

Jeremy Laing Spring Summer 2013

TFW Spring Summer 2013 – Jeremy Laing

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I’m so delighted that Jeremy Laing has fashion shows in Toronto now. Seeing his clothes in person can’t be matched, even with the great video and streaming technology that exists today. The Spring Summer 2013 Jeremy Laing collection brought me back to the mid nineties. I was in university and spending my time going to concerts and dancing at raves in front of much too loud speakers. The models walked by and Snug Industries kept popping into my head. Then the pants reminded me of the printed sarong wrap pants like the kind you could buy from a vendor at Lollapalooza in Barrie. I was having a full on 90s flashback. The sportswear theme ran strong in this collection with shapes influenced by basketball and baseball. Jeremy continued the layering theme of fall winter 2012 into spring by utilizing lightweight fabrics. Embellishments on the shoulders, flak vests and bombers gave a military/urban warrior feeling. The colour palette was called Swamp Deco because of a recent trip to New Orléans. It included a lot of slate, …

TFW Spring Summer 2013 – Pavoni

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The spring summer 2013 Pavoni show was fun. I usually don’t pay much attention to evening wear and when I do my style is sleek and understated. I saw Sister Act, The Musical a couple weeks ago. That show was full of sequins. There were everywhere and the light hit them from all angles. I was memorized. A sequin/shiny switch clicked in my brain and now I’m paying attention. Designers Gianni Falcone and Mike Derderian were inspired by Le Chateau de Versailles and all the opulence of that doomed age. The guys had this to say about their inspiration: “The allure of decadence, the glamour of a time long passed… This season, “Le Chateau de Versailles” and all its opulence becomes our muse. Let this PAVONI collection whisk you away to a place where sultry lace, jewel encrusted silk, glistening gold and unbridled romance defined an era! Sneak away to the lush royal gardens to steal a kiss under the moonlight, or dance till dawn in the hall of mirrors. For tonight, the world is …

Pink Tartan SS 13

TFW Spring Summer 2013 – Pink Tartan

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Pink Tartan brought out the a list fashion folk. She enlisted Maybelline New York Spokesmodel Charlotte Free and Irina Lazareanu to model. Annabel Tollman, celebrity stylist lent a hand to pull the runway looks together. “This collection has been inspired by geometric shapes, sharp lines and defined angles. I have incorporated an intricate geometric cut or detail into each piece of the collection in a non-traditional manner. The end result is a collection that dynamic, exciting and ultimately Pink Tartan this season.” – says President and Head Designer, Kim Newport-Mimran (source: Press Release) The collection looked influenced by the 50s and Greaser culture. There were plenty of full skirts, sweetheart necklines and high-waisted bottoms. There were a lot of classic shapes featured but the details were in the fabric and colour choices. I enjoyed the contrast of the show. There was the first, lighter half with the delicate mint, pink, white and silver. The brocade details add some texture and uniqueness classic looks. The second, darker half of the collection featured black and gold. It …

Holt Renfrew Fall Winter 2012

TFW Spring Summer 2013 – Holt Renfrew

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The tile of this post is a bit of a misnomer because Holt Renfrew didn’t show any looks from the spring summer 2013 season. Instead they opted for a showcase of merchandise Canadian and international that is available in stores now. I don’t have much to say about in general since these clothes originally went down the catwalk in March. “Tonight we’re proud to present a special take on ‘Canadian Catwalk’ — celebrating Holt Renfrew as the destination for those who love fashion”, said Alix Box, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Holt Renfrew. “Our runway showcases this unique moment in our 175 year history with an inspiring collection of contemporary and designer fashions to wear right now.”(source: Press Release) Holts opted to hold a breakfast fashion show that showcased their Canadian designer’s spring summer 2013 collections. I missed this cause it was too early in the morning, ha ha. The show had about 65 looks and they had all the best models ripping through those looks. It didn’t seem like a long …

TFW Spring Summer 2013 – Jean-Pierre Branganza

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Jean-Pierre Branganza is another ex-pat living in London. He’s the kind of designer who I could see myself dressing head to toe in (If I could afford it that is). Saying his name to anyone who asks “who are you wearing” would be a hoot too. The man has the best name. I love his angular designs rendered in bright colours. His clothing reminds me of the near future, something I always gravitate to. The Jean-Pierre Branganza Spring Summer 2013 collection was inspired by Ukrainian artist/designer Zinaida Lihacheva’spaintings “Transormation” and “Touch”.The results are bold and work very well with the Jean-Pierre Branganza aesthetic. As a fan, the collection didn’t disappoint. I want everything. Jean-Pierre’s shift dresses are always a staple in my mind but the jumpsuits and suiting looked really great. He stuck to his signature bold colour and geometric aesthetic. He is another designer who had a strong style that makes it a signature and unmistakeable. See more photos and a video from the Jean-Pierre Branganza Spring Summer 2013 show.

TFW Spring Summer 2013 РChlo̩ Comme Parris

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I just wanted to start by thanking Chloé comme Parris sarcastically for reminding me that I won’t be in L.A. this November like last year. The Spring Summer 2013 collection was a dreamy California trip. I almost expected to see a wave crash down on the opposite end of the runway. It made me miss California in a big way. The collection’s fabrics had a delicate, sun bleached feel. There was lot of flowing silk chiffon in shirts, caftans and spaghetti strap, floor grazing sundresses. Strategic thigh slits brought a bit of sex appeal to this All American Girl collection. The duo also featured their Spring Summer 2013 jewellery collection and I spotted my next set of statement earrings. The Shaped hoop earrings are just so good. The leather shorts are fantastic and have such a flattering cut.  The dusty pink leather moto jacket was another standout piece of the collection. Chloe Chloé Parris delivered another beautiful collection. I’m impressed at how Chloé and Parris have created such a focused identity for the brand. It’s …

I’m a Moon Apparel Ambassador + 20% off the Ottoman Dress

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This seems to be the year of starring in ad campaigns for me which is pretty freaking awesome. Earlier in the spring, I was in the MasterCard Stylicity campaign and now for fall its Moon Apparel. They have gathered some of their favourite Canadian bloggers to show how we incorporate Moon Apparel into our wardrobes. Like the Stylicity campaign, this is a paid gig. Gotta love feeling like a working model 🙂 In celebration of individual street style, MOON Apparel has partnered with 10 Canadian fashion bloggers in five cities across the country. The bloggers were specially selected by Mimran Group Inc. to become members of an ambassador program set to launch October 8th 2012. The bloggers were challenged to bring their best fashion flair forward by integrating their individual style with clothing pieces from the fall 2012 MOON collection and accessories from their existing wardrobe to create seasonal fashion looks. Captured on the streets of their cities, the bloggers turned the lenses on themselves to shoot their looks. Each ambassador will post their favourite …

Muttonhead Fall Winter 2012 – 2013

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Muttonhead is a Toronto based label that creates unisex sportswear using natural and organic fabrics manufactured in Toronto. I think the Muttonhead fall winter 2012 – 2013 lookbook and video are very clever this season. The corresponding video for the fall winter 2012 – 2013 collection is a very twisted in a fun way.

Smythe Fall 2012 – 2013 Videos

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Smythe celebrates the fall 2012 collection with these great campaign videos. I love the rough and tumble outdoorsy women contrasted with the feminine outfits and beautiful silhouettes of the Smythe jackets. Smythe celebrates Fall 2012 with this film created by Toronto creative agency Open, directed by Christina Hodnet (Sons & Daughters) and with music by Apollo.

Lucian Matis Fall 2012 Ad Campaign

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It’s so lovely to see a beautiful ad campaign for a Canadian designer. I’m so blown away by how great these images for Lucian Matis Fall 2012 are. I saw Lucian’s fall collection during Toronto Fashion Week this march. I’ve included the video so you can get an appreciation of the collection. It was stunning Photography by: Greg Swales Production Assistant: Ashley Gesner Hair & Make-up: Anna Nenoiu, P1M Model: Leigh Hoby, Ford Models This one is my favourite. images: courtesy of Lucian Matis

I want – I got’s Top Fashion’s Night Out Toronto Picks

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Fashion’s Night Out Toronto is a day away and the list of participants have grown. I’ll be running around on Thursday, traveling through Yorkville and Queen West. Here are my top Fashion’s Night Out Toronto destinations. DRESSED presented by Maybelline during Fashion’s Night Out – Dressed shares the true and truly inspiring story of designer Nary Manivong’s adolescent life, which found him homeless at 14 in Columbus, Ohio to the present as he prepares for his debut show at New York Fashion Week. RSVP REQUIRED 6th floor of the Burroughes Building. Doors open 6PM Screening at 9PM The Bazaar By RAC – The Bazaar will bring together a wide array of Toronto retailers including: Gotstyle, Lab Consignment, Drake General Store, Psalms91:1 Accessories, Vocado, Elle Hardware, Woodlawn, Rescue Vintage, Robber, Philistine, Canon Blanc, Magic Pony, Chloe Comme Parris, Life of Manek, Foe & Dear, Love of Mine, Fischer Street, Muskox, OnlyOne Gallery, 69 Vintage, Travis Taddeo, The Cashmere Shop and Fashionably Yours. Goods will include everything from jewellery to shoes to a wide array of clothing. …

Holts 175th – The Magenta Collection

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Holt Renfrew is turning 175 this year. It’s amazing that this retailer has been around since 1837. Holt Renfrew started as a hat shop in Quebec City and over the years developed and expanded across Canada. In the 1930’s, Holts began it’s luxury focus and even welcomed Christian Dior in 1947 when he launched the “New Look”. The company was under foreign ownership for many years and in 1986 it was purchase by The Westons moving Holt Renfrew into the company it is today. Holt’s partnered with many of it’s luxury brands to create the limited edition, Magenta Collection. It was cool to see some Canadian faces in the mix like Smythe, Naked & Famous, Mackage, Moose Knuckles and Canada Goose adding their magenta inspired pieces. There are a number of limited edition items available outside of the ones I’ve posted here. You can see the entire Magenta Collection online at Holtrenfrew.com. images: courtesy of Holt Renfrew  

Judith & Charles Fall 2012

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There are lots of American companies moving into the retail space in Canada. It’s nice to see home-grown companies pushing their own expansions. Montreal based Judith & Charles is opening their first 1700 sq ft flagship store at First Canadian Place (my old work stomping grounds) opening in September. Designers Judith Richardson and Charles Le Pierrès started the brand in 2008. They aren’t newbies in this business and before Judith & Charles they were the exclusive North America licensees for the Parisian brand Teenflo. Judith & Charles has 10 retail locations in Canada and a store in New York City. The fall collection uses leather, suede, and fur details and has influences from 50s silhouettes. The colour palette is neutral but incorporates trends like teal and oxblood. You can see the entire Judith & Charles fall 2012 collection on their website. I’ve included my favourite looks here. Fall/Holiday 2012 is also up if you are looking ahead. Judith & Charles  is available at their Bayview Village location and at Holt Renfrew in Toronto. images: Courtesy …

i want: Tunic by Dinh Ba

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This knit tunic by Montreal designer, Dinh bá popped up in my Facebook newsfeed. It got me thinking of how cosy knits are in the fall with pleasure instead of summertime disdain. i’m not ready to purchase knits yet but this tunic can be found at distill gallery in Toronto. image: distillgallery.com

i want: Maryam Keyhani Fall Winter 2012 – 2013

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Ever since reading Overdressed, I’ve been thinking about spending my money with a bit more caution when it comes to fashion. High on my priorities are well made, wearability and country of origin. I’ve decided that less is more and I want to stop those random H&M or Zara purchases and save for a couple of big ticket purchases a season. The fall, I want a Maryam Keyhani necklace. Maryam’s work is as stunningly beautiful as she is. I really feel like these necklaces portrays her aesthetic perfectly. And who doesn’t want a part of that. Maryam’s necklaces feature folded silks, structured metal and strands of pearls. Maryam Keyhani is available at Holt Renfrew in Toronto. images: torontolife.com

Triarchy Fall Winter 2012 – 2013

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Canadian denim brand and I want – I got favourite, Triarchy took their bright skinnies and traveled all the way to Peru to shoot their fall winter 2012 – 2013 lookbook. The result is a very beautiful lookbook. Such a refreshing change from the standard way I’ve seen denim presented. Triarchy is available at Dutil Denim in Toronto images: courtesy of Triarchy

60 Years of Designing the Ballet & The Tutu Project – Till September 2, 2012

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The Design Exchange is hosting two exhibits for The National Ballet of Canada: 60 Years of Designing the Ballet and The Tutu Project. Both exhibits will be at the Design Exchange until September 2, 2012. 60 Years of Designing the Ballet This exhibition offers an intimate look at the design of one of Canada’s most celebrated treasures – the National Ballet of Canada. The exhibition is organized thematically – highlighting the various ways in which the ballet as an institution is designed through hundreds of items from the ballet’s archive. The exhibition provides a private invitation into the world of one particular company. This exhibit brought me right back into The Nutcracker world again. I had to snap a photo of the Cannon Doll costume sketches and swatches. There are a lot of costumes to check out and set pieces to see up close and personal. You can even try on a tutu and try out ballet moves right in the exhibit. Admission is $10.20 for the 60 Years of Designing the Ballet exhibit. The …

complexgeometries Fall Winter 2012 – 2013

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I can’t talk about the upcoming Fall Winter 2012 – 2013 collections without mentioning one of my favourite labels, complexgeometries. The NIGHT is what complexgeometries is calling the Fall Winter 2012 – 2013 collection. It references cultures of the night like skinheads, swingers, workmen and revelers. The collection conveys “the shadows and secrets that the day’s dark hours shroud.” The lookbook was shot in Japan and I love the models! The female model’s makeup is perfect for this complexgeometries collection. The little bursts of colour that were present in previous collections are gone and there is a heavy focus on black, grey, navy and white. As usual, I want it all. Look for pieces of the collection to hit complexgeometries.net this month and beyond. images: courtesy of complexgeometries

Louie Gong x Manitobah Mukluks Gatherer Boot

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I have to admit I’m a bit surprised that I’m writing about Manitobah Mukluks. I’m not a fan of Mukluks and I usually cringe whenever I see people wearing them around the city. They are very popular and the Manitobah Mukluks company is as close to the genuine article as you are going to get. I’m a huge fan of Louie Gong though and he’s partnered with Manitobah Mukluks to create a boot even I can love. Louie Gong x Manitobah Mukluks Gatherer Boot is described by Louie: The eagle is a cross-cultural symbol of strength, leadership, and long-term vision. By portraying the eagle on a women’s mukluck with a diving posture, oversized claws, and open mouth, I offer symbolic acknowledgment of strong women of all backgrounds. When wearing this eagle design, each step represents bold movement towards your life goals and leading our families into the next generation. The grey Louie Gong x Manitobah Mukluks Gatherer Boot are pretty damn cool. The boots are available for Pre-order on manitobah.ca for $299 with delivery happening …

North Star Sportwear x Geoff Mcfetridge Collection

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North Star + Geoff Mcfetridge Pop-up Shop runs from June 22 – 28, 2012 at Magic Pony. I attended the launch party because I was dying to get a look at the collection. I wasn’t disappointed, it’s pretty damn cute. My favourite is the moose print. Thanks to North Star I walked away with a red moose tank that you will see on Instagram soon, ha.  You can take a look at the North Star Sportwear x Geoff Mcfetridge Pop-up shop launch party photos on their facebook page. images: Courtesy of North Star