Over the last couple of years I’ve developed a zeal for fashion and style. Regardless if it’s categorized as high fashion or street style, it fascinates me. I feel like today we have the freedom to express ourselves in our attire. We have the power to create our personal style. There really is no one dominant trend or style that most of us follow, and that’s awesome. What’s excites me most is this new age of eclecticism—being able to derive our style from a broad range of trends. Style is so personal, and we have the ability to create it—wholly.
This year I decided to explore Canada’s fashion scene a little closer—I was a volunteer at Toronto’s very own Fashion Week. Although I didn’t have the chance to attend many shows, the experience itself was exhilarating; standing a few feet away from fashion mogul, Jeanne Beker, ogling at the uber stylish guests and of course running around backstage. Although not always glamorous—volunteering was truly an eye-opener to this fast-paced industry. As Fashion Week drew to a close, I felt compelled to check out all of this year’s Fall/Winter 2012 collection and compile my ‘best of’ list of designers.
Hope you enjoy! (Oh—and feel free to share your favourite designers! I’d love that.)
Disclaimer: This is my first attempt at blogging about fashion, so please spare me.
Lucian Matis
The look: “With some of the models’ fingers also featuring black talons, one would be forgiven for thinking the designer was influenced by the macabre darkness of Black Swan. But backstage, Matis said he was exploring the beauty of symmetry found in nature — like the mirrored patterns on a butterfly wings,” Derick Chetty, Toronto Star.
Matin used a lot of black, handwoven lace (with nude underlay) in his collection, which brought forth a dramatic look. My personal favourite was the plunging neckline on the full-length gown—elegant, yet risqué. Also, the spider-like gloves served as the perfect accessory to complete each delicate piece.
Greta Constantine
The look: “Constrained rebellion. Dangerous undercurrents. Unusual prettiness. Sweetness tainted.” These are the words design duo Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong used to describe Greta Constantine Fall/Winter 2012.
Personally, I love the bold hues, leather accents and funky dresses. The cutouts on the dresses, as well as the strong shoulder designs add an edge to each piece.
Pink Tartan
The look: “Beatnik beauty meets Lone Ranger,” is how Kimberly Newport-Mimran described her Fall/Winter 2012 collection. A 60s and 70s vibe was present in her designs. Peplum and bright hues—a beautifully minimalist design.
Pink Tartan was by far my favourite collection. I am a huge fan of monochromatic, minimalist-like attire and her line exudes this. The bright hues gave each piece a striking look, though it didn’t take it far away from being a practical, professional piece one could wear to work. It was simply divine.
There you have it—be sure to check out rest of Fashion Week’s talented designers here!
Have a merry Monday and I mustn’t forget to send my love to the fabulous Jeanne Beker, who celebrates her 60th birthday today! Make sure you check out Jeanne’s 60 reflective affirmations in today’s Star. I’ll leave you with one of my favourites:
“I’ve learned that great style has little to do with what you wear. It’s how you wear it and who you are. Confidence is the best fashion accessory.”
Much love,
B
Le Bon Vivanteur 
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