Kathryn Potter Hammerton: VCC Designer and Illustrator Recaps VFW, September 20

Kathryn Potter Hammerton
Fashion Design and Production student, VCC

When I tell people that I came to Vancouver to study Fashion Design they are often stumped as to why. They obviously haven't been to VFW lately as it's full of innovative designs. Vancouver is a relatively young city (compared to London) but it has a healthy mix of new and established designers who are not afraid to explore different markets, and it's all so wearable.

Meridian’s collection of travel wear has a distinctly West meets East look using suitcase friendly fabrics in warm colours. I loved the versatile drawstring feature on the side of the top I sketched, you get to choose: modest or skimpy. Their khaki jumpsuit was my favourite from this collection with drawstring waist and rolled up legs with a buttoned tab.

As we've learned Shibori dyeing in our Surface Textiles course, I have a great appreciation for Ghren’s collection as I know how difficult it is to achieve a consistent colour and and pattern in this traditional Japanese dying technique. Full of flattering styles with interesting details such as cut out backs, woven panels of fabric strips and enlarged pockets.

Autum Jules had a dress on the runway that I would very much like to see in my own wardrobe. A white fitted knee length dress with a beautiful bronze native art print, a big fluffy collar and the best bit is that it has huge Pom-poms which are so on trend. I also want to get my hands (or feet) in a pair of the moccasins (also with large Pom-poms ) that the model was wearing. Autum has successfully melded First Nations art and traditional techniques with bang up to date fashion.

One designer I was really looking forward to seeing was Atelier Guarin and he didn't disappoint. Every look was stand out, for women who want to be noticed. The quality of the workmanship and cut of the clothes was apparent. A monochrome palette was accented by killer scarlet heels. The only outfit I managed to sketch (I was too busy gawping at the clothes) was a crisp white wrap-around top featuring slashed, circular frills cascading from the elbows that was paired with a slinky layered pinstriped skirt. Guarin also used a liquid look pvc, I loved the dress with statement leg-o-mutton sleeves. In my eyes, this is a trend setting designer with a flawless look.