Fashion Week in Toronto
LG Fashion Week SS’12: Day 5

Jeanne Beker & Street Photos

Whoever thought of the common phrase “the first and last impressions are the most important” was certainly correct. To anyone not in fashion, this often means behaving your absolute best and putting on your best smile. To anyone in fashion, this means wearing the most extravagant ensemble in your closet, to be remembered. As fashion week wraps up we see everything from feathered shawls to one-of-a-kind dresses.

Photos from top: Marlene Shiff & Sonja Andic | Flare Editor Lisa Tant | Lovas Designer Wesley Badanjak | FLister Leesa Butler

The last day featured the biggest Canadian designers such as David Dixon and Denis Gagnon, as well as designers with a different approach to fashion. Adrian Wu opened up the day on a good note with his architectural designs, and Baby Steinberg who blew me away with her use of discarded fabric and assorted materials to create dynamic pieces. Cydelic offered a unique look, one often seen on Lady Gaga with the spaceship like shoulders, creating a “futuristic” look for spring. Lauren Bagliore was a favourite of the night with Asian inspired, loose fitting clothing with a feminine touch. Judith & Charles set up installations for an up close and personal experience with the fashion, and David Dixon won our hearts with his “Lagerfeld-like” black and white contrast.

The perfect ending to the week was Denis Gagnon, who designed menswear inspired pieces for the everyday female. Models skipped and twirled down the runway, ending the week on a happy note.

Day 5 LG Fashion Week SS’12 was probably one of the best days and the worst days at the same time. Starting with the worst (save the best for last always), was that it was the FINAL day of my first ever Fashion Week! Coming into this week I had no idea what to predict, and well, my initial expectations were exceeded. During the course of this week I met so many amazing, creative, and talented individuals, who are truly doing what they are passionate about in life. Designers, media representatives, guests, and all of the wonderful volunteers, all worked together to put together Toronto’s pride and joy, LG Fashion Week.

Now for the best news…drum role…I met Jeanne Beker! She has been an idol of mine for many years, after seeing my very first episode of Fashion Television. While casually sipping on wine with Toronto’s most stylish, I decided to bite the bullet and introduce myself, and am I ever glad I did! After leaving, I was stopped by a man who asked me if he could take a photograph of my outfit for FASHION Magazine. Without hesitation… I said yes. I was sporting my classic black booties from H&M (again), black tights, a teal chiffon dress from H&M, with a cape coat from Jacob over top.

This week was an incredible opportunity and an honor to represent Toronto Street Fashion!

{Editor’s Note: This is why we love Jenn! Enthusiastic, hardworking and the next generation of Toronto’s fashion bloggers!}

Fashion Week in Toronto
LG Fashion Week SS’12: Day 5

Micalla’s jewelry collection pays tribute to the imperial cat that reigns in every woman’s spirit, (although all the cat-themed togs I saw this week were on men – t-shirts emblazoned everything from evil cats to cat-cosmonauts). Sponsored by Kusmi Tea, the collection is massively luxurious – silver discs cascade down collar bones, Swarovski crystals are woven into glittering mesh or colossal chokers. I’m happy to report that a “coral” necklace is in fact made of coloured pearls – your reefs are safe with Micalla. Unfortunately, the work (like the tea!) is only available in Quebec. The Swarovski boutique on Bloor should get on that. Today.

Inspired by the innovative architecture and culture of Brazil’s favelas – where she worked as a nurse, then teaching crafts to children, Baby Steinberg continues to turn cast-offs into couture. Fabric remnants are woven like rag-rugs or piece-worked into intricate gowns – some pieces took a hundred hours to make! Choryin Choi’s imagination plays with what we all know Sigourney Weaver was thinking – “Louboutin could make some gorgeous shoes out of that creature”. Alien skin print leggings are paired with sci-fi white and plastic, and accessorized with mutated monster handbags, but don’t worry ET – your flesh isn’t on our wish list (this year).

Dixon’s show is fabulous as usual (see previous review), and the entire week ends with Denis Gagnon’s limitless genius (above). Rabbit soft silks move with a feral quality, and sleeveless jumper shorts are updated, sexy and belted at the bust. Florals take a walk on the wild side (think Laura Ashley meets Grindhouse) in a garden of gorgeous black chintz, complete with matching patent leather box clutches.

All in all it was an exhausting, but exhilarating week. Emerging designers to keep an eye out for include Bonnie Yam, Naanafya of Garde d’Avante, Louie Manzo, and Kallvis Gents. Cheers to everyone (especially the designers) for a fabulous 25th season!

Fashion Week in Toronto
LG Fashion Week SS’12: Day 4

Cynthia Rowley | Vawk | Trend: Flashy Accessories

Day 4 was a much quieter day (is everyone getting tired?) in David Pecaut Square, and the weather was still not cooperating; which is a mood killer especially after you’ve just done you’re hair and makeup.

Jenn proves that even your grandma’s closet can hold the best-hidden treasures – Wearing a sported a vintage, sequined floral shirt and black Guess jeans. Knee high, wedge boots from Aldo.

The agenda of the day was full of studio shows in the afternoon, and some in the later evening, which made for smaller crowds and better seats. I successfully made it in time to see the Fashion Environment Kellogg’s Special K Presents: Cynthia Rowley. Her mini show featured three ‘real’ women, in beautifully designed, cherry red dresses, supporting their “feel good” vibes and active lifestyles.

Next up was Caroline Néron in the studio (see Liza’s post here), presenting her goddess inspired SS12 line. The models had a breeze from the fans placed in front of the runway, giving the show an “Ancient Greece meets Victoria Secret” feel; it worked!

Vawk SS12 photos via http://www.stevealkok.com/

Bustle captivated the gentlemen in the room’s attention with sailor-like suits, and navy seal stripes. Although all three shows were outstanding, I have to say it was Vawk that captured my heart – sheer maxi skirts, Asian inspired dresses, and the use of metallic gold pleased everyone.

As the night went on, I found myself playing the classic childhood game “Where’s Waldo?” while awaiting the shows to begin. As I previously stated, it was a quiet night in the LG tents and many previously spotted fashion A-lister’s were busy elsewhere; wherever else their fabulous lives take them. I did happen to notice models Andrej Pejic and Stacey McKenzie, stylist Liz Cabral and designer Adrian Wu. It was great to see Adrian out supporting other Canadian designers in preparation for his studio fashion show on Friday.

Accessories Trend: Flash Attack!

The trend I spotted throughout the night was different than any other thus far: chunky accessories. Many chic women jazzed up their ensembles with edgy, bold, and dazzling jewelry. Designer, Naanafya rocked her own accessories line, wearing a bundle of silver beaded necklaces, a large cross ring, and a jeweled, pink skull ring while my own friend and partner for the night, Jennifer Nguyen, flaunted a Jeremy Scott white winged watch.

RELATED POSTS:
+ Naanafya Accessories at FAT >link
+ Dispatches from a Newbie LGFW Day Three > link
+ Statement Necklace T.O. > link

Fashion Week in Toronto
LG Fashion Week SS’12: Day 3

Inside, the LG tents were bustling with positive energy all day, despite the glum weather outside. Early shows included Robert Graham, Sid Neigum, Marie Saint Pierre, and Klaxon Howl. However, the majority of the day was quite quiet, which I guess was a result of busy work schedules of fashion week’s elite and the not-so nice weather.

Jenn pictured with Liz Trinnear of MuchMusic – Day 3 fashion week (on a student budget) outfit: Faux leather jacket, black tights, and black booties from H&M.  Black tank top, cream skirt, and pearl-gold chain necklace from Forever 21.

Around 5 p.m, the guest lists expanded as more people filed in for Label, Korhani, Pink Tartan, and Joe Fresh.

The Label studio show was a collection of feminine pieces; very basic yet girly chic pieces for spring! It featured edgy necklaces and other chunky jewelry designed by Toronto’s own, Emily Woundenberg (below). Pink Tartan and Joe Fresh lit up the night with beaming neon’s against sharp white, creating a crisp contrast for next season. Both collections also had neutrals and classic tailoring as two of their main features.

Waiting in the mayhem for the Joe Fresh show to start, I introduced myself and spoke with Liz Trinnear of MuchMusic. She sported her classic bun and looked fabulous. As always, Joe Fresh was a fully packed show (some people were even crowded sitting on the stairs) with supermodel Yasmin Warsame taking the catwalk.

Another highlight of my night was meeting InFashion’s, Glen Baxter (above). I had noticed him from afar the past few days but actually had the chance to speak with him, which was amazing! Other attendees of the nights fashion shows were Toronto fashion reps: Melinda Shankar, Adrian Mainella, Randi Bergman, Tommy Ton, Stacey McKenzie, Fefe Dobson, Keisha Chante, Lisa Tant, Bernadette Mora, and Mosha Lundstrom.

Turban Trend?

Seeing turbans and headwraps on the models at the Attitude Jay Manuel and Laura Siegel shows, it got me thinking about this new “Turban” inspired headband trend. I recently bought myself one from American Apparel, and noticed two girls sporting one. It’s a unique trend, which can go with ultimately any outfit, not to mention how cute they look! Look for this style of headwear appear more often for the season Spring/Summer ’12.

**All pictures credited to Jennifer Nguyen http://jnouveau.com/

RELATED POSTS:

+ Headmistress Head Wraps & Turbans > link
+ LG Fashion Week: Joe Fresh SS12 > link
+ DIY Couture: Try on a Turban >link

Fashion Week in Toronto
LG Fashion Week SS’12: Day 2

Jenn in a more ‘classic’ look for Day 2 of LGFW – a long sleeve black dress and leopard belt from H&M,  black strappy heels from gojane.com, and bright red lipstick from Revlon in “Are you Red-dy? photo by Brendan Zwelling

As I predicted in my previous blog entry, the FDCC took new measures into account to control the crowds during day 2 of LG Fashion Week. Media awaited the show patiently in a separate area than “Designer Guests” which made the entire organization of filing in and seating much more efficient. On the guest list for day 2 was Stacey McKenzie, Jeanne Beker, Glen Baxter, Flare’s Ryan Cheung, Jay Manuel, Jessica Stam, and of course the lovely judges (Shawn Hewson, Robert Ott, Jessica Stam, Robin Kay, and Bernadette Mora) from the Mercedes Benz Start Up.

The fashion day started at 1 p.m. with Amanda Lew Kee, and went beyond 8:30 p.m. when the Attitude Jay Manuel show began. I attended Tosca Delfino, Laura Siegel, the Mercedes Benz Startup, and Chloe Comme Parris.

Delfino featured her latest in swimwear, which had an exotic, “welcome to paradise” feel. She opened the runway show with a video of a model sky diving out of an airplane in a bikini designed by her, set on a tropical island. It was an interesting way to set the mood for the show, and the swimwear definitely correlated with the active, stylish vibe. For Siegel, media got bumped up to front row at her studio fashion show, which was amazing for capturing pictures and examining fine details. Her feminine bohemian line was definitely a favourite of the day, alongside Chloe Comme Parris with chic prints, and beautiful tailoring.

Designers and husband and wife duo Danielle Martin and Pao Lim with model Jessica Stam – winners of the Mercedes-Benz Start Up fashion competition

The Mercedes-Benz Startup show was an event in itself. The five finalists enrolled in the competition for the 2011 National Final were: Cassie Dee, Martin Lim, Travis Taddeo, Triarchy, and Unttld. After a show full of hard work, inspiration, and creativity, Canada’s very own supermodel, Jessica Stam, announced the winner chosen by judges; Martin Lim for the win! The duo behind the label, Danielle Martin and Pao Lim, were ecstatic, as was I after their fantastic show.

Jenn & Jenn ironing the new Evan Biddell designed Rowenta crests onto knit tank tops @ the LGFW environment

The most stylish, and reoccurring trend of the day was knits. Knits were seen on many designer guests, media representatives, and even on the runway. Designer’s Laura Siegel and Unttld both featured knits in their Spring/Summer collections, making this trend a come back for the warmer weather.

On Thursday (day four of Toronto’s LG Fashion Week), three power shows run back to back.

bottom photo via tofashionistas.wordpress.com

Bijoux Caroline Néron collection starts with the ethereal sounds of an operatic Eartha Kitt – it seems like the singer is Neron herself. Her jewelry collection is Goddess gorgeous – a myriad of shimmering chains drape around nearly naked models, with the spine bejewelled as the throat. Best is a pair of gauntlets attached to the collar with glittering strings of crystal – the whole collection is like a chandelier in a car crash (I mean that in a good way).

Bustle photo’s via tofashionistas.wordpress.com

Bustle serves up signature stripes and periwinkle purple in an ultra preppy collection that is made to measure for the regatta set, and VAWK gets inspired by insects (below). The laser cut gold leather looks like it’s been stolen from the Hermitage, and even Lillian Pope was commenting on the artistry (and work!) involved in the inset patterns on the butterfly gowns.

Top Canadian design icon David Dixon consistently creates collections that range from the elegant to the outrageously gorgeous – a testament to both his business acumen and virtuosity as a designer.

His Spring/Summer 2012 line is inspired by uber-punk master Malcolm McLaren (who launched the Sex Pistols and Vivienne Westwood). The collection skips between flirty feminine to dangerously decedent. Naro Lokuruka (pictured in a yellow dress above) starts the show with all the drama of a diva (legend has it she was discovered by Dixon and Wesley Badanjak while walking down the street). Dixon’s signature laser-cut cottons and silks flutter into petals, and the beloved paisley print is resurrected in a ghostly white on white brocade. Madame Butterfly gowns are restrained by Dixon’s ultra-refined aesthetic, but the blazing white butterflies on black could be worn to a New York Dolls concert at CBGBs.

The jewellery is perfect – heavy cuffs look like Wonder Woman has been shopping at Van Cleef and Arpels, and another pair of cuffs attached at the back with strings of chains allow a full range of movement – much like a lion on a deceptively long leash. David Dixon is the perfect designer for those embracing the slow fashion movement – his work is classic, but never conservative, and his prêt-a-porter line is available at The Bay for under $200.00!

On Day Three of LG Fashion Week in Toronto, the mood turns from exhilarating to claustrophobic.

We’re all a bit confused about the Korhani Rug show – fearing a Carole Burnett spoof of Scarlet O’Hara’s curtain dress, but less funny and more cringy. Taking a cue from Denis Gagnon’s interpretation of Alice in Wonderland, Kirstin Korhani and Cherry Dewar (former assistant to Evan Bidell), jump down the bunny hole with wild costumes and a live rabbit model. Dewar’s integrity in her artistic vision is solid, and Korhani’s vast knowledge of textiles would translate beautifully into fabric. Fingers are crossed that we’ll see a fashion line from this duo, who will probably find it easier to sew in silk and bamboo!

Photos Toronto Star “Carpets and rugs are repurposed into dresses, skirts and yes, even blazers at the Korhani Home show”

See all the Joe Fresh SS12 looks via Toronto Life

The Joe Fresh show is packed as usual. If you’ve envied metrosexual trend shirts, with accent collars and floral prints, Mimran has a full range of shirts to choose from – all tailored to the feminine form. Voluminous skirts manage to steer clear of the peasant look, and a crochet dress over Daisy Mae shorts and a bikini top is hot enough to fry an egg on! Eerie economic news from Europe is bullying designers to stay safe, but Mimran makes sure his statement jackets for men are not major investment pieces. At least you won’t lose the shirt off your back if you invest in your clothes!