Fashion Week | Style Blog | Toronto Fashion and Lifestyle Blog

Toronto Fashion Week: VAWK Fall 2013 Collection

vawk-fall-2013-wmcfw-6

By the time the 4th day of WMCFW rolled around, all I wanted to do was NOT make my way to the tents, and stay at home, wrapped in a cozy blanket watching bad TV…but if there’s one show that I simply couldn’t miss it’s VAWK, so off to the tents I went.

As usual, Sunny Fong did not disappoint. VAWK Fall 2013 collection was once again chock-full of drool-worthy coats and stunning dresses. He does those so well! Fong’s fall collection was inspired by hunting, and featured custom-made prints created by the designer himself, plenty of fur accents, as well as stag and wolf leather appliqué tops, that even the models backstage were swooning over.

I, on the other hand, was swooning (and still am) over VAWK’s outerwear and gowns. In less experienced hands, details like pleats on a coat could’ve been all wrong, but in Fong’s masterful hands, the end result was subtle, elegant, and simply stunning, making me want to rip those beautiful clothes off the models’ skinny backs and run into the night with my precious VAWK loot.

What do you think of VAWK Fall 2013 collection? What are your favourite pieces? Share in the comments.

vawk-fall-2013-wmcfw-17

vawk-fall-2013-wmcfw

vawk-fall-2013-wmcfw-10

vawk-fall-2013-wmcfw-3

vawk-fall-2013-wmcfw-19

More after the jump!

1 Comment

Style Blog, April 1st 2013 | Tags: Canadian, Events, Fall 2013, Fashion Week, Sunny Fong, Toronto Fashion Week, VAWK, WMCFW
Posted in Events, Fashion, Fashion Week

Toronto Fashion Week: Pink Tartan Fall 2013 Collection

wmcfw-pink-tartan-toronto-fashion-week-fall-2013-4

The morning of Pink Tartan’s Fall 2013 show, I read the interview Flare’s Emily Ramshaw did with Kimberly Newport about the new collection, and was pleasantly surprised to find out that Pink Tartan’s president and head designer is a fan of American Horror Story. Such a fan in fact, that her entire fall collection was inspired by one Constance Langdon. If you watched the first season of AHS, you already know that Constance (played by the glorious Jessica Lange) was one classy lady. Well, a husband-murdering lady, but classy nonetheless. And Pink Tartan’s fall collection was spot on Constance – elegant, with a vintage flare, and just the right hint of mischief. The collection definitely felt older than spring’s Charlotte Free-inspired butterfly-printed line-up, but it also felt more timeless. Classic (and flattering) silhouettes, and statement outerwear dominated the fall show, and I found myself drooling at the sight of some pieces…like the blue fur coat, which sadly, I won’t be able to afford, but can certainly daydream about.

The wigs seemed to cause a bit of a controversy among the show-goers I spoke to, but as a huge fan of AHS, and Jessica Lange, I loved this particular styling choice, and was delighted at the sight of an army of Jessica Lange lookalikes strutting their stuff. If I squinted hard enough, I could almost imagine that it was the real deal.

All in all, I really enjoyed Pink Tartan’s Fall 2013 collection, but hope that the next show isn’t inspired by the second season of AHS, because asylum chic might be a little too much, even for a die-hard fan like myself.

What do you think about this collection? Are you a fan of AHS? Share in the comments!

wmcfw-pink-tartan-toronto-fashion-week-fall-2013-9

wmcfw-pink-tartan-toronto-fashion-week-fall-2013-17

wmcfw-pink-tartan-toronto-fashion-week-fall-2013-22

More after the jump!

2 Comments

Style Blog, March 22nd 2013 | Tags: American Horror Story, Constance Langdon, Events, Fall 2013, Fashion Week, Kimberly Newport, Pink Tartan, Toronto Fashion Week, Trends, WMCFW
Posted in Events, Fashion, Fashion Week, Trends

Toronto Fashion Week: Jeremy Laing Fall 2013 Collection at the shOws

jeremy-laing-fall-2013-the-shows

Canadian designer Jeremy Laing is known for creating quietly cool clothes that are the opposite of flashy. His strength is in well-thought-out details and immaculate cuts; his clothes don’t shout, they whisper. But it seems for his Fall 2013 collection, Laing has decided to spice things up.

Most of the collection was still signature Laing, with beautifully-cut pieces, leather detailing, flowy skirts (and dresses), and classic palettes, but…added to the mix was gold lamé seersucker. Present in more than a few looks, the shiny (yet lightweight) pieces were a (good) shock to the eye, and added that certain je ne sais quoi to the designer’s fall collection. And though I wouldn’t be brave enough to wear gold lamé head-to-toe, I would certainly love to add a shiny motorcycle jacket to my growing collection of fun outerwear.

Apart from the not-so-lame lamé, I fell in love with the black and white striped print – a result of a collaboration with a Toronto-based artist Vanessa Maltese. The “broken” stripes paired with a pop of yellow was my favourite combo on the runway that night.

At the end of the show, Laing gave a quick interview, walking the attendees through the inspiration behind a few of his favourite pieces, sharing that his clothes are “hard to sew” but “easy to wear”, and having seen his pieces on cool-girls like Anita Clarke and Sarah Nicole Prickett (worn effortlessly, it seems), that statement certainly rang true.

What do you think of Jeremy Laing’s Fall 2013 collection? Share in the comments!

jeremy-laing-fall-2013-the-shows-8

jeremy-laing-fall-2013-the-shows-5

jeremy-laing-fall-2013-the-shows-4

More after the jump!

No Comments

Style Blog, March 21st 2013 | Tags: Canadian, Events, Fall 2013, Fashion Week, Jeremy Laing, The ShOws, Toronto, Toronto Fashion Week
Posted in Events, Fashion, Fashion Week

Toronto Fashion Week: Jean-Pierre Braganza Fall 2013 Collection at the shOws

jean-pierre-braganza-fall-2013-15

It’s official! Jean-Pierre Braganza is one of my absolute favourite Canadian designers. His Spring 2013 collection took my breath away last year, and I simply loved his Fall 2013 show. With Asian-inspired prints, origami-like folds, and elegant outerwear, Braganza’s fall collection was a treat to see up close and personal.

My favourite pieces included the elegant structured blazers and flowy draped gowns, and while last season’s prints were more my steeze, I appreciated Braganza’s fall prints all the same. The mesmerizing photo-print tunic was definitely something I would add to my wardrobe next season.

All in all, I was really happy to be able to take in Jean-Pierre Braganza’s Fall 2013 collection in person at the shOws. He’s an incredibly talented designer, and it’s thrilling to watch him succeed.

For more photos, please visit our Facebook.

jean-pierre-braganza-fall-2013-3

jean-pierre-braganza-fall-2013-13

jean-pierre-braganza-fall-2013-11

More after the jump!

No Comments

Style Blog, March 18th 2013 | Tags: Andrew Richard Designs, Canadian, Fall 2013, Fashion Week, Jean-Pierre Braganza, The ShOws, Toronto, Toronto Fashion Week
Posted in Fashion, Fashion Week

NYFW Fall 2013: Mathieu Mirano, DL1961, and Reem Acra…oh my!

mathieu-mirano-fall-2013-nyfw

On my third day of NYFW, I began my day bright and early with a Mathieu Mirano Fall 2013 presentation. And though I have to admit, I’m not a morning person (<<understatement), I was really happy I made the effort to see this collection. Classic with a modern twist, Mirano’s third collection had me making wishlists as I was happily snapping away. Fox-fur coat with a sliver of unexpected mesh, luxe-looking sparkly pencil skirt, geometric patterns galore – it all felt fresh and exciting, without being forced. This young designer is definitely one to watch.

My second stop of the day was DL1961′s Fall 2013 show, where the good old jeans were transformed into drool-worthy objects of desire. Granted, my favourite pairs weren’t your regular skinnies, but still. Who knew that denim could be so haute? From quilted details and leather trims, to fun pops of colour, I loved it all. And knowing how comfy those babies are, I had no doubt that I’d be investing in another pair sooner rather than later.

I ended my day with one of my most highly-anticipated shows of the week – Reem Acra Fall 2013. I was really looking forward to seeing the Reem Acra extravagance in person, and I wasn’t disappointed. The sexy collection was inspired by Acra’s recent trip to Japan, and featured a classic palette of black, white, and red. And while the chic workwear pieces were both glam and versatile, the ones that got my heart thumping were Acra’s signature evening gowns – some delicately beaded and flowing, other sculpted and embellished. Katherine Heigl, who took in the show from the front row, was seen clapping cheerfully as the designer took her bow.

mathieu-mirano-fall-2013-nyfw-5

More after the jump!

2 Comments

Style Blog, March 4th 2013 | Tags: DL1961, Events, Fall 2013, Fashion Week, Mathieu Mirano, New York Fashion Week, NYFW, Reem Acra, Travel, Trends
Posted in Events, Fashion, Fashion Week, Travel, Trends

Wishlist: Balenciaga Fall 2013 Shoes by Alexander Wang

balenciaga-shoes-fall-2013-alexander-wang-paris-fashion-week

We’ve all been waiting for it – Alexander Wang’s first-ever collection designed for Balenciaga! Presented during Paris Fashion Week last night, Balenciaga Fall 2013 was full of chic covet-worthy pieces. “I’m going back to the roots, identifying the codes of the house, and translating them into a functioning, full wardrobe,” said Wang, and while I truly loved the entire collection, I fell IN LOVE with the shoes.

I mean…just look at them! These shoes are classic, and yet they are not. Chic, but edgy. Comfortable? Probably not, but I want them all nonetheless. These shoes are what dreams are made of. And today, I am going to enjoy dreaming.

What did you think of Wang’s first effort designing for Balenciaga? You can see the entire collection HERE.

balenciaga-shoes-fall-2013-alexander-wang-paris-fashion-week-2

Photo Credits: Style.com

2 Comments

Style Blog, February 28th 2013 | Tags: Alexander Wang, Alexander Wang for Balenciaga, Balenciaga, Events, Fall 2013, Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week, Shoes, Shopping, Wishlist
Posted in Events, Fashion, Fashion Week, Shopping

Paris Fashion Week Fall 2013: H&M Runway Show

h&m-fall-2013-paris-fashion-week-show-8

Last night one of my most favourite brands – H&M held their first-ever runway show during Paris Fashion Week. Attended by stylish young things like Ashley Olsen, Emma Roberts and Chloe Moretz, the Fall 2013 show was set in a lusciously-decorated tent set at the Musée Rodin, and showcased the gorgeous fall collection on notable models like Arizona Muse, Cara Delevigne, and Isabeli Fontana, styled by George Cortina.

Apart from the unbelievably beautiful setting, the collection itself sure did not disappoint. Moody, dark, and glamorous, in fabrics like velvet, faux fur, leather, and silk, the collection was reminiscent of those wild 70′s rock stars – edgy, but feminine. “Delicacy and a sense of faded grandeur is found in pieces such as an open-backed sequin dress or an embellished and fringed shoulder piece, while knitwear is key, especially with an intricate cable knit sweater.”

I don’t know about you, but I am obsessed with at least half of the collection…and luckily for me, I can actually afford it! Yup, finally, a runway show that we can not only draw inspiration from, but also be able to afford. How novel is that?

Anyway, what do you think of H&M’s Fall 2013 collection? Are you as obsessed as I am? Share your fave pieces in the comments!

h&m-fall-2013-paris-fashion-week-show-13

h&m-fall-2013-paris-fashion-week-show-11

More after the jump!

1 Comment

Style Blog, February 28th 2013 | Tags: Arizona Muse, Cara Delevigne, Events, Fall 2013, Fashion Week, H&M, H&M Paris Fashion Week Show, Isabeli Fontana, Paris Fashion Week, Shopping, Trends
Posted in Events, Fashion, Fashion Week, Shopping, Trends

NYFW Fall 2013: Naeem Khan

Naeem-Khan-fall-winter-2013-nyfw

One of the highlights of my whirlwind trip to New York this February was attending Naeem Khan’s Fall 2013 runway presentation. With a star-studded front row that included Matt Damon and his wife Luciana Barroso, Brooke Shields, Taraji Henson, and Vanessa Hudgens, this show was one of my favourites, and not because of the celeb factor – the clothes were breathtaking!

Gown after opulent gown, you could feel the excitement in the room. From long-sleeved silver frocks, to blue and crimson velvet, to sparkly golden dresses, I loved it all, and wouldn’t be surprised to see a lot of the more formal beaded numbers on red carpets soon (Michelle Obama herself wore one of his designs to the Academy’s Governors’ Dinner, while Clooney’s giflfriend wore a dress from this collection to The Oscars!). And why not? Naeem Khan’s aesthetic is sexy and glam, without feeling stale.

I am very happy that I got to see this collection in person, because no amount of pictures can beat seeing it in real life. So believe me when I say…they looked SO much better in person. If you do want to see the entire collection, please click HERE.

What do you think of Naeem Khan’s Fall 2013 collection? Let me know in the comments.

Naeem-Khan-fall-winter-2013-nyfw-5

Naeem-Khan-fall-winter-2013-nyfw-4

More after the jump!

1 Comment

Style Blog, February 26th 2013 | Tags: Events, Fall 2013, Fashion Week, Naeem Khan, New York, New York Fashion Week, NYFW, Travel, Trends
Posted in Events, Fashion, Fashion Week, Travel, Trends

NYFW Fall 2013: Street Style Looks Part 2

nyfw-fall-2013-day-2-street-style-5

Watching New York Fashion Week attendees battle the elements this February was interesting…to say the least. Piles of snow, layers of icy slush, and frigid winds didn’t stop the stylish crowds from bringing it. And while I kinda gave up on fashun after a particularly cold day at the tents, these awesome street stylers certainly didn’t. From stunning outerwear, to creative layering, to eye-popping accessories, great looks were on display all over the place, and I was right there to capture it all for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy, and let me know which outfits you like best!

Also, if you still haven’t, check out NYFW Street Style Looks Part One!

nyfw-fall-2013-day-2-street-style-6

More after the jump!

2 Comments

Style Blog, February 19th 2013 | Tags: Burberry, Celine, gucci, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, New York, New York Fashion Week, NYFW, Organic Style, Street Style, Travel, Trends
Posted in Fashion, Fashion Week, Travel, Trends

NYFW Fall 2013: LACOSTE, Mara Hoffman, and Rafael Cennamo

nyfw-fall-2013-day-1-rafael-cennamo

Thanks to Nemo, my Friday flight to New York got cancelled and moved to Saturday instead, which meant that sadly, I had to miss a few fun NYFW appointments, like the LACOSTE Fall 2013 show. As much as I was looking forward to attending it, there was nothing I could do, so I caught up on it online instead. With awesome color-blocked, draped and zippered dresses, and bold shapes all around, this collection was definitely up my alley, and I was sad that I didn’t get to see it in person. Wah-wah…maybe next time.

lacoste-invitation-nyfw

As soon as le bf and I got off our Porter flight, we dashed to Manhattan in order to make it to the Mara Hoffman show at Lincoln Center. With no time to spare, I sprinted through the slushy snow, rows of street style photographers waiting on the sidelines, and grabbed a seat just as the show was about to start.

nyfw-fall-2013-day-1-mara-hoffman

As a huge fan of Mara’s gorgeous prints and boho aesthetic, this was one of my most highly-anticipated tickets all week, and I have to say that my excitement was totally justified. From the beautiful flowy dresses (maxis were my fave), to printed cardigans, jackets, and knits, I’ve lost count of the many things I had on my must-have wishlist. This collection was fun, youthful, and definitely covet-worthy. Not sure if I would wear most of those pieces in the fall in Toronto, but I would totally live in them all summer long.

nyfw-fall-2013-day-1-mara-hoffman-3

After Mara’s show, I made my way to the “21 Shades of Gold” Rafael Cennamo presentation, where I was blinded by the fabulous line-up of models gilded in sparkly golden evening gowns. “Inspired by the passage of time with the ornate and golden aura of The Hall of Mirrors, Rafael gets inspiration for his Fall 2013 Couture Collection by bringing his twist upon classic couture.”

Rafael Cennamo’s Fall 2013 collection definitely didn’t scrimp on gold embellishments. There were lace gowns, draped taffeta, jacquard, velvet, duchess silk – all in gold! Beaded, draped, asymmetric, embroidered…you name it. The attention to detail was impeccable, and I wished that 1. I could afford one of those dresses, and 2. I had somewhere to wear something so exquisite!

After attending both shows, I ran outside to shoot some street style, before meeting up with le bf for a delish dinner and some shopping. Airport to fashion week mission accomplished!

Stay tuned for more coverage of other great NYFW Fall 2013 shows!

nyfw-fall-2013-day-1-rafael-cennamo-5