~ by Liza Zawadska

Toronto’s philanthropically minded braved the cold and rain Thursday, Nov. 30, 2006 to enjoy an evening of food, art, fashion and opera in support of the Sophia Fund: a charity that provides education for girls in developing countries.

We were treated to the spring collection of Toronto’s new fashion darling - Jason Meyers (available at Boutique Le Trou, Queen West). Drenching raw and charmeuse silks, jewel-like sunshine yellows, emerald greens and amethyst violets played off pristine nautical whites. Meyers juxtaposed the formal with the casual, creating an eclectic style. Formal, finely tailored jackets were paired with sinfully short shorts. Playful polka-dot bubble skirts were topped by shirts with darling pleated capped sleeves and extravagant bows.

Soprano Emily Klassen enchanted the show with her clear, richly textured voice. She herself was gorgeous in a floor-length gown in brown chiffon over muted violet, by Toronto designer Areta (www.aretadesigns.com). With Klassen’s voice and the beauty of Meyer’s new collection, the cold and rain seemed to melt away like warm honey on the tongue.

Don’t let the dreary winter skies get you down – check out www.jasonmeyers.net, and start planning your new spring wardrobe. For more information about the Sophia Fund see www.thesophiafund.org – fashion changes, but education changes everything.