Barbara Bui -Pre-Fall 2013 Collection and Trunk Show at The Room

Written by Colleen Tsoukalas (Treasure Seeker Colleen)

On Wednesday, Feb. 6 from 11-2, fellow fashion student, Lynn, and I were treated to a fashion show at The Room, a beautiful show space on the second floor of The Bay Vancouver, downtown.  This elegantly appointed area is like a living room, an inviting, comfortable and remarkably bright yet flattering setting.  One can view the clothing easily and order on the spot.  Many of the outfits are modelled so that you can see how the pieces fit and all the special details: buttons, hems, pleats, sleeve lengths, sequins catching the light and much more.  The Bay, to me, means service, selection and style and this is very evident when you attend any event, whether it be a third floor fashion show, a Make-Up Extravaganza, a shoe sale or an even more exclusive event, like the Barbara Bui collection at The Room.

Barbara was voted Best Fashion Designer 2013 in Paris and received The Globe De Cristal Award from the French Press for Arts and Culture. Her first collection came out in 1987 and her clothing and accessories are featured in Vogue and Elle and are worn by many stars, of course.  Her line is "a mixture of rock energy and feminist sensitivity" intricately tailored, fitted to flatter and sensuous and soft to the touch.  Melanie Berger (in the Bui green top) works for Barbara Bui and Meghan Surface, an Associate for The Room, took us through the collection, pointing out items that suited our style and signature pieces.  I liked the soft suede black jacket with shearling collar.  Jenna modelled a fabulous blazer, leather pants, open toed booties and a softly bowed blouse.  Alicia showed off an 8 button longer coat with 3 button cuffs, back pleating and shoulder tabs.  It was a slim fitting, military statement.  We met several customers, including Shirley, who wore polka dots, a little fur around her shoulders and the highest heeled booties, ever.  She tried on several looks from the Bui Collection and eventually settled on a cute, short little blue dress that could grace any runway. Shawn Ayers, Concierge for The Room, graciously served outstanding appetizers from Hawksworth.  Fresh juices and champagne, tea and specialty coffees were also featured.

A big thanks to Daria Delfin, Associate at The Room  for extending the invitation to Barbara Bui's Collection there..  Infinite thanks to all for a wonderful afternoon.