Spring 2009 Collection


Photos by Christina Pal

Many of Tuesdays collections are as dull and conservative as our new and not-so-improved government. Even designers formerly celebrated for their daring ingenuity are playing it safe with monotonous designs. Ironically, Dixon, known for restrained classics, comes to the rescue with a daring new spring collection. Inspired by Nelson Mandela, the work celebrates creative freedom with innovative approaches to fabric. Organza is basket-weaved for ultimate texture, cut leather is transformed to porcupine appliquè, and one gown looks like crocodile skin that’s been dipped in Saudi oil. Gorgeous! Daring! (And a much needed break from collections that are inspiring as reports from the Bank of Canada).
Liza Zawadzka

Joeffer Coac and models with Glen Baxter in the on-site Fashion Television studio

L – Coko, Rachel and Daniel trying to keep warm in the Studio line waiting to get into the smaller ‘Indie’ tent

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So today was all over the place and I was in and out of the tents to catch a show then do other things (change outfits) and then go back. Robin Kay gossip was kept at a respectful minimum with few exceptions, and she herself looked composed and relaxed.

The first show I caught was KARAMEA in the Studio tent. As with Katya, there was seating drama, this time not nearly enough! I was forced to sit on my hands and knees on the floor next to Esther Whang, a Fashion Television intern who later discovered that she was crouching next to a woman sitting in her seat (anyone can get a seat if they lie)! The show itself continued the theme of flowy, draped garments that Katya started and a little too predictably followed the trend forecasting books colour palette. But that said, it had many wearable, lovely dresses.

Then I left. Errands to run, people to see and a nice warm dinner at home to eat.
Sadly I rushed into a new outfit and out of the house to make it in time for the Bustle show and arrived at what I thought was Just In Time. I was wrong. After waiting in line for a half hour with an increasingly irritated Stacy McKenzie we finally we allowed to take our seats and continue to wait. Bustle apparently failed to make it to the hair and makeup check on time and their show started a whopping forty five minutes late. Perhaps an ode to Marc Jacobs. The collection was wearable and stylish in a Gossip Girl guy way but followed too closely the cuts and forms they used last year and ended up looking a bit like an up-marked Tristan and America.

David Dixon was next and to be honest I contemplated skipping it. Dixon is a wonderful Canadian designer, but one that I usually associate with rich Rosedale ladies and not cutting edge design. This season I’m glad I stayed as it was the best collection so far. The show started with a floor length gown in long black knife like sequins and continued in a striking black, taupe, cream and red palette. These were clothes a woman could walk in anywhere and be the centre of attention while looking effortless. He used giant floral prints in a strict black and white scheme that were at the same time severe and playful. But the knock out of the show were dresses with sequins and beading in almost armor breastplate patters that made the models look like the most chic warriors of the catwalk.

David Dixon reminded me why I go to fashion week.

Susie Love and Jessica | Model Stacey McKenzie

For detailed descriptions of the designers and runway fashions, go to Nathalie Atkinson’s reviews at The Ampersand >>

Joeffer Caoc Spring 2009


www.joeffercaoc.com

Lucian Matis, designer with Arline Malakian, photographer

Jeremy Laing, designer

Stephen Wong of Greta Constatine