Izma

Written by Treasure Seeker Colleen

For Izzy Camilleri and fashion file host Adrian Mainella, it is the second season at LG Fashion Week. I loved the short curly faux bobs of the models complimented the transparent floaty material used in the collection. Love the idea of sustainable Canadian fur and the contrast of fur and floaty transparent fabrics. The image conveyed was of the pleasure and beauty of winter and our ability to sustain ourselves physically and aesthetically.

Images via Peter Lytwyniuk

Holt Renfrew

Written by Treasure Seeker Colleen

This year we are lucky enough to have access to professional runway photos! Thanks to Johanne of Fashion in Motion for connecting us to Peter Lytwyniuk.

The stage for LG Fashion Week was set by Jeanne Beker who warmly welcomed us to the dynamic play to unfold over the week. Robin Kay showcased Canadian talent and emphasized the business and creativity behind fashion. She inspired us with her vision and enduring message of faith in our always fashionable designers.

Frank Lee, L'Oréal Canada enthusiastically spoke about partnerships in business in Canadian fashion. His excitement about being a partner and a participant in fashion week was evident; he said it was a privilege to be here.

The overall look of the shows I have seen so far is a very creative interpretation of winter, with just a touch of spring. I really enjoyed the introductory video of all facets of the work at Holt Renfrew. The theme song, Taking Care of Business, complimented the uniforms as well as the sporty looks of the collection.

Images via Peter Lytwyniuk

SHAN

Written by Treasure Seeker Colleen

This collection was an invitation to warmer climates and summer! Loved the hats and sparkling jewelry as accessories for beach wear. Loved men's and women's bathing suits - bright colours and designs - very flattering (note to get to the gym more often). Each collection has a little black dress and this one was great. The tunics and pants were comfortable and stylish and could be dressed up or down. Paris at the beach - this is it!

Images via Peter Lytwyniuk

Sleep and Poetry: OR by Angela Chen

Prior to fashion week I had the privilege of interviewing Angela Chen of OR. Check out this short interview and a few looks from her latest collection. You can see her runway show at Toronto LG Fashion Week on Friday April 1st at 2:00pm.

A: What are your inspirations for this season's collection?

A: For my Fall Winter 2011 collection I drew inspiration from paintings by contemporary artist Jonathan Lasker. His artistic technique was instantly captivating; I loved his ability to use sporadic brush strokes to play with shape. I focused on his use of repetition and freehanded lines when I began to design my latest collection titled Sleep & Poetry. The name of my line is also the partial title of a Lasker book of drawings & poems and a poem by John Keats.

A: How has your heritage influenced your designs?

A: My experiences in Taiwan have certainly influenced the way I design. Taiwan is known for its street culture with influences from Hong Kong and Japan. The people there reflect a young and trendy style which is constantly evolving. After visiting Taiwan, I always come back to Canada feeling inspired. My work often mimics the fast-paced lifestyle of Taiwan; I love to play with rhythm, lines and various textures.

A: Can you talk about some of the pieces that you have used for celebrities?

A: I have been fortunate enough to dress many young confident women in the entertainment industry. I have provided my celebrity clientele with hand-knit pieces and also designs that incorporate my signature pleated draping and asymmetrical silhouettes.

A: How did your interest in knitwear develop?

A: I took an interest in knitwear because I enjoy playing with various textures. I found that hand-knitting my collection allowed me to experiment with shapes; I would alternate between thick and thin yarns to create textured silhouettes.

A: What inspired this year's color palette of greys, blacks and neutral tones?

A: My colour palette for FW2011 consists of sapphire blue, lavender, black, white and light grey. I like playing these colours against each other to create contrast within my collection. Neutral tones are timeless and I want to provide women with clothing they can wear over and over again.

A: Can you talk about your experience as National Portfolio Day Judge for Parsons in Vancouver?

A: I was extremely honoured to have been appointed this prestigious title because I would not be the designer I am today without the lessons I learned at Parsons. I saw some amazing portfolios that day; it is remarkable the amount of talent coming out of Canada. To have had the opportunity to provide input on educating the next generation of designers was an experience I will never forget.

Denis Gagnon and Dandi Maestre Trunk Show!

On Sunday I had the chance to visit the Denis Gagnon and Dandi Maestre trunk show at 386 Huron Street. Dandi's jewelry was beautifully displayed on high wooden beams and Denis' pieces were on in the centre of the room. We tried on his clothes and her jewelry, chatted and enjoyed the atmosphere. Can't wait to see Denis' show on March 29th at 1:00 pm. For more information visit LG Fashion Week or Denis Gagnon.

My fabulous blogging friend and fashionista
Marta :)
Image via With Love...

Image via With Love...

Image via With Love...
Anna, Marta and I

Treasure Seeker Colleen in a Denis Gagnon jacket.

Trying on a piece of Dandi's extraordinary
necklaces.

Sucker Punch Ball Goes to the Rio

Written by Treasure Seeker Colleen

Pictures by C and L Tsoukalas

On Thursday March 25th, I visited the fabulous Rio Theatre for the Sucker Punch Ball! The event featured Lace Embrace Atelier, Scout Boutique and TrunkShow by Misty Greer. Vancouverite Melanie Talkington from Lace Embrace Atelier designed the corsets for the latest movie "Sucker Punch" in theatres now. Sucker Punch is a sci-fi action movie about a young girl in the 1950's trying to escape from an asylum.

Our terrific MC for the evening was Kristie Johanson, owner of East Vanity Parlour. I was invited to the event by Nicole Stewart of Nicole Stewart PR and arrived in time to meet the gorgeous and talented models of the show. From what I could see, both from the live models and the movie characters the costumes emphasized everything feminine, but in no way impeded freedom of movement.

I spoke with Rita Star, Geneviève Raiche-Savoie, Melody Mangler and Tristan Risk about wearing corsets and they love wearing them. They feel very supported and love the designs and the accessories. It's great to know Scout Boutique is the place where you can find colorful, form fitting and edgy fashions. Loved the pink shirt, green halter top and capri pants with detailed back pockets done by Misty Geer. Melanie Talkington's corsets were couture quality, but thankfully available in Vancouver! Great to see another Canadian designing for the movies as well as for all of us. Adored the setting and the show, bravo! Visit Scout Boutique's website here and their facebook page here.

Nicole of Nicole Stewart PR!

Kristie Johanson