Van Fashion Week

Day 5 highlight

2010-11-07T23:55:00.000-08:00

Simin Haute Couture

As one of the final collections of the last day at Vancouver Fashion Week, Simin Haute Couture was outstanding. The gowns were so beautiful with all of the embellishments -- ruffles, lace, feathers, and diamonds. Some had a lot of volume and some were sleek, but all were just as gorgeous as the other.

Day 4: Local & International

2010-11-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

Yesterday featured both local and international designers -- some of which were from Korea, Mongolia and Hawaii! Check out these exclusive photos from the shows!

Frederick Fung

Papillon Eastern

Ginger Martini

Lori Dawn

Katharine Demarchellier

Drew William

Ha Sang Beg

Doli Lee

Shilmel Zagvar

Maggie Coulombe

Day 3: Eco Friendly & Eastern Allure

2010-11-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

Three eco-friendly designers were featured today along with a great line-up of high-class "eastern allure" designers. Here are some exclusive photos!

Laura Siegel

Nate Organics

Hawks Avenue

Clice Lissa

Bellissima

Fala Chien

Eva Chen

The TRUE'S

WREN boutique

2010-11-06T13:09:00.000-07:00

In the midst of Vancouver Fashion Week, I sneaked away to Bowen Island to find some rest and relaxation. (Don’t worry, I’ll be back to watch the fabulous shows!) However, the quaint town boasts gorgeous views overlooking the water, places to have bed and breakfasts, and gorgeous little stores of all types.

One location the peaked my interest in particular was WREN, a new modern and fashion boutique nestled away in Bowen Island’s Artisan Square; this one stop shop is ideal for any lady who wants to look chic and warm for the upcoming winter months.

Entering the store, I was automatically drawn to the beautiful knitwear which included everything from toques with matching mittens to chunky neutral coloured sweaters. But that’s not all that the store has. Delicate jewelery. Wool dresses. Dark denim jeans. You name it – WREN’s got it.

Can’t find your must-needed Hunter rain boots locally? No worries. WREN carries several types of Hunter boots to suit your style. In addition, the boutique carries some impressive designers based out of Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto and Los Angeles .

So if you’re looking to get away for a winter weekend and do some early Christmas shopping while exploring the outskirts of Vancouver, WREN is the perfect place to go.

Visit www.wrenboutique.com or http://twitter.com/wrenboutique for more information or see what’s inside the store for yourself at #569 – Artisan Lane, Bowen Island B.C. V0N 1G0.

Day 2: New Generation

2010-11-05T11:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's shows featured up-and-coming designers with most of them showcasing their inaugural collections. Here are some brief descriptions and exclusive photos from each show!

Blake Hyland, a designer based out of Vancouver, had a very grunge-chic collection with muscular men complete with smeared dirt over their faces and bodies with disheveled hair and thick eyeliner; the look channeled Jack Sparrow. The collections featured a lot of leather and black. The designer experimented with knots and rips, which coincide well with the rock-star persona of the collection.

Carmina De Young, an Ontario-based designer, had a very elegant collection. With sleekly tailored suits, satin dresses and floppy hats, all in classic colours like black, red and white, one can wear these pieces to anything formal and look like a darling.

Molto Dance is a designer that creates clothing specifically for dancers. Dancers dominated the runway as they twirled their way down looking positively fabulous. The show was outstanding.

Queen of Jeans is a Vancouver-based designer that is, in fact, the queen of jeans! Skinny's and bootlegs were mostly seen on the runway. But not only does this designer create great jeans, she also debuted flirty, fun-coloured tops!

Haneca Azuma, a designer based out of New York, had a feminine collection of neutrals and blues for the classy lady. Floral jumpers, velvet pants, button up tops, and dainty dresses made up the pieces for a lovely walk in the park or a trip to the farmers market. The braid & bun added a nice touch to the looks.

Sid Neigum is a designer from Calgary. His looks were something out of the future with the models' hair piled in a high pony of geometrical cylinder shape. The bold collection featured only black and white with strong statement pieces: cropped leather jackets, both sheer and opaque tights (which were worn by the male models as well) floor length dresses and feathery jackets.

Caterine Sanchez. The Vancouver-based designer's collection had a youthful feel with tyedyed tops and dresses. Some of our favourite items were the navy-blue sweater with the large hood, the shorts with geometric shapes and the tailored white pants, which all accented the tyedyed tops perfectly.

NRT Fashion, a Calgary-based designer, evidently used fencing as her inspiration as many of her models wore similar face masks though satiny and looking high-class. Bodycon jumpers, babydoll dresses and bustiers made for a sexy and eclectic collection.

Pout's collection was feminine and youthful. One could go out for a night on the town in these numbers. The designer didn't hold back for colour like many of the other designers, but also used the classic black's and white's. We love the embellished belt in the second photo!

Ho-Chi Huang is a designer based out of Calgary. Her collection was very unique as it featured lamp-shade style hats with veils of lace and tassels that hung down from them. The collection was sleek and sophisticated with looks in the classic black and white colours and satin fabrics being prominent on the runway.

Kamila Gougain (Kam & Lee) were the most quirky of the designers having one walk with a veil which floated above with helium-inflated balloons -- obviously a crowd favourite with an applause when the model walked out! Loved it. There was also a fabulous babydoll dress which is featured in the third photo.

Ana Isabel's looks were very earthy and natural. All of them hand-made and hand-dyed, the wool looks were very organic-looking and beautiful. The designer used all neutral colours, but there is almost a tyedye look as she had fun with placement of the earthy colours as you can see on the cowel neck of the first photo and on the dress of the third photo.

Sermin Sesoren, a designer based out of Vancouver, was very wild (pun intended)! The models were wearing a variety of horns on their heads along with fur and bead embellishments. Our favourite piece from the show is the pine cone looking brassier that you can spot in the fourth photo!

Andrea Hilbrecht had a lovely collection. All of the pieces were very feminine. Light fabrics, both in colour and in weight, were prominent on the runway. The braid and bun look added nicely to the femininity of the collection.

Sarah Runnalls is a Vancouver-based designer. Her collection was classy and sophisticated with earth tones and staple pieces of the season like high-waisted skinny pants in an earth-green tone and the sleek camel coat.

Opening the Show

2010-11-03T23:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Vancouver Fashion Week! The buzz was humming over the crowd as they eagerly await for the show to begin with the Jacquline Conoir collection. Known for 'sophistication with an edge', RozeMerie did not disappoint.

Jersey fabric flowed nicely throughout with little details - pockets and wing-like sleeves showed contemporary tailoring. Neutral colours were present in this line.

Oh the power suits! High waist pant/skirt brought up the level of sophistication and confidence that this designer always brings into her collection. Fabulous fitted blazers, a nice touch of femininity together with a contemporary approach.

The printed dress with the tan belt is one of my favourites in this collection. Just in time for Spring: pastel coloured floral patterns plus a satin material casual outfit... all so playful but oozes that confidence again!

In support of Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, at the end of each show, a breast cancer survivor models one of the designs and walks down the runway with the designer. Here's is one of the stunning models with RozeMerie Cuevas:

Next up, Valerio Moda.

Wonderful neutral colour leather collection including the short sleeve button down shirt which was unbelievably stitched... craftmanship at its best! The bags were gorgeous, too!

Complementary colours of a nice crisp cobalt blue with a right hue of orange livened up the suede and leather combo pieces. My favourite of this collection was the plaid-like pattern patches on the leather jacket together with the worn out jeans and boots (far right)... IMO, a modern take of the grunge look.

The designers came out and were greeted by applause and hugs and kisses from their families!

L'introduction de Madam Couture.

Sexy, colour, and bit of 'tude (I had to show the shades... pearlescent sunglasses)!!! This highly sought after designer has become an international brand. A Trinidad native raised in NY, Michel Tudour took her collection to a whole new world with a retro/'80's vibe bathing suits with the colours and the different styles of the bathing suits.

Love the added accessories of a feather boa, heavy gold chains, big belts and bows, and sequins!!! Eclectic indeed.

Isn't she the cutest thing? Incredible things are going to happen for this talented lady.

This was only the first night so stay tuned for more!!!

Schedules for the show!!!

2010-11-02T11:33:00.000-07:00

Vancouver Fashion Week Line-up Spring/Summer 2011

Wednesday November 3rd

Opening the Show Designer Location

7:00pm Jacqueline Conoir - Vancouver

8:00pm Valerio Moda - Vancouver

8:30pm Michel Tudour - Trinidad

9:00pm Patricia Fieldwalker - Vancouver

After Party at Forum

Thursday November 4th

New Generation

4:00pm Blake Hyland & Carmina De Young - Vancouver & Ontario

4:30pm Molto Dance & Queen of Jeans - Vancouver

5:00pm Haneka Azuma & Sid Neigum - New York & Calgary

5:30pm Caterine Sanchez & NRT Fashion - Vancouver & Calgary

6:00pm Kirsten Summersgill & Ho-Chi Huang - Calgary

6:30pm Kamila Gougain, Lacey Yorston & Ana Isabel - Vancouver

7:00pm Sermin Sesoren - Vancouver

7:30pm Sarah Runnalls - Vancouver

Gala at the Loden Vancouver Hotel

Friday November 5th

Eco-Friendly

5:00pm Laura Siegel - New York

5:30pm Nate Organics - Vancouver

6:00pm Hawks Ave. - Vancouver

Eastern Allure Fashion

7:00pm Clice Lissa - Vancouver

7:30pm Bellissima - Vancouver

8:00pm Fala Chien - Vancouver

8:30pm Eva Chen - Vancouver

9:00pm The TRUE'S - Vancouver

After Party at Canvas Lounge

Saturday November 6th

Local & International

2:00pm- 4:00pm Fashion Seminar

4:00pm Frederick Fung - Vancouver

4:30pm Papillon Eastern - Vancouver

5:00pm Ginger Martini & Lori Dawn - Toronto & Bellingham

5:30pm Katharine Demarchellier - Toronto

6:00pm Drew William - Vancouver

6:30pm Ha Sang Beg - Korean

7:00pm Doli Lee - Korean

7:30pm TBA

8:00pm Shilmel Zagvar - Mongolian

8:30pm TBA

9:00pm Maggie Coulombe - Hawaii

After Party at Au Bar

Sunday November 7th

Local & International

12:30pm Kids Show

2:00pm- 4:00pm Fashion Seminar

4:00pm Andrea Spratt - L.A

4:30pm Alvilde David-Andersen - Norwary

5:00pm Gordana - L.A

5:30pm Lisa Jayne Dann - UK

6:00pm James Steward Couture - UK

6:30pm TBA

7:00pm Carolyn Massey - UK

7:30pm Chiyuki Sugimoto - Japan

8:00pm Simin Haute Couture - California

8:30pm Kersh - Vancouver

9:00pm Press - Vancouver

Closing Gala After Party at Forum

Designer of the Day: Kirti Naidu

2010-11-01T15:59:00.000-07:00

Label: k.naidu

Fashion school: Art Institute of Vancouver

Theme of your new collection: Indian royalty.

Colours in your new collection: Red gold, teal gold, black gold.

Style icon you most admire: Vera Wang.

Celebrities you'd love to see in your clothes: Aishwarya Rai, Beyoncé Knowles.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: Every girl shoud have a little black dress, a classic go-to scarf with a pattern on it, and a pair of silver stud earrings -- big ones! I’m all for accessorizing.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? My aunt survived breast cancer and now she healthier than ever! Seeing what she went through was life-changing and now I want to participate by helping those who need a hand or someone to make them laugh.

http://www.theprovince.com/Designer+Kirti+Naidu/3760644/story.html#ixzz144gWtx3f

Designer of the Day: Jaclyn Saretzky

2010-10-31T10:52:00.000-07:00

Label: Lily by Jac

Fashion school: The Art Institute of Vancouver

Theme of your new collection: High-end lingerie.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Colours: Purple and gold. Fabrics: silk duchess satin, silk chiffon, lace. Silhouette: structured garments that put emphasis on curves.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your designs: Katy Perry.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe : Skinny jeans. A boyfriend-fit T or tank. Tights or leggings!

How has your life been touched by cancer? My grandmother has had cancer twice now and so far had beaten it! I would love for a cure to be found for breast and all cancers. Spreading the word is one of the strongest things anybody can do, because the more support there is the faster a cure can be found.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Jaclyn+Saretzky/3747638/story.html#ixzz13xadWKSi

Designer of the Day: Antigoni Savvaidis

2010-10-29T08:12:00.001-07:00

Label: Antigoni Savvaidis

Fashion school: The Art Institute of Vancouver

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Colours: black and orange. Fabric: mesh, Italian wool, leather, doupioni silk and metal. Silhouettes: fitted garments and corsets.

Style icons you most admire: Jean Paul Gauthier, Hussein Chalayan, Alexander McQueen.

Celebrities you’d love to see in your clothes: Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Britney Spears.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: A great fitted pair of jeans, an amazing leather jacket and a fitted, stylish top.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? I haven’t been directly affect by breast cancer, but I am constantly aware that it is something we need to remove from this world.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Antigoni+Savvaidis/3742257/story.html#ixzz13lF63FtO

Shanti Uganda: Fashion Making a Difference

2010-10-28T18:26:00.000-07:00

Shanti Uganda is a grassroots organization that started working with the community in Luweero district, Uganda.

Shanti Uganda is proud to be a part of Vancouver Fashion week and excited to link our community in Vancouver with our community in Uganda. Through fashion, Shanti Uganda is able to provide support to an entire community.

Shanti is a Sanskrit word meaning peace. It reflects our belief that peace begins within. In order for communities to develop a greater sense of solidarity and unity, they must first allow themselves to heal from within and act from a place of love and compassion.

The war in Northern Uganda has been called the most neglected humanitarian emergency in the world today. For the past 23 years, the Lord’s Resistance Army and The Government of Uganda have been waging a war that has left nearly two million innocent civilians displaced. Millions of children have been orphaned by HIV/AIDS and thousands of women die annually in childbirth. An entire generation has never known peace…

Through fundraising efforts in Vancouver, Shanti Uganda has been able to provide support to women and communities.

The Shanti Uganda Society has carried out 3 fashion training programs and graduated over 28 women from our Income Generating Training Program. Each woman must be HIV positive and either a grandmother taking care of multiple grand children, a widow or in a situation of extreme poverty.

Upon graduation, participants become members of our women's group, receive a certificate of graduation, all of the supplies needed to begin her craft and ongoing support and education. All of the women work in an outdoor round hut on Shanti grounds built especially for our women's group. Currently, Shanti Uganda runs a textiles group and a beading group.

Other Shanti Uganda programs include a teen girls group that empowers young girls to be more aware and confident in their bodies. And on September 27, 2010, we proudly opened the Shanti Maternity and Learning Centre. A birth centre aimed to improve maternal health and decrease infant mortality rates.

Please consider joining us on this journey. To donate and find out more please visit www.shantiuganda.org or email info@shantiuganda.org

Designer of the Day: Beverley Huynh

2010-10-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

Label: Huynh

Fashion school: The Art Institute of Vancouver

Theme of your new collection: Fragile sovereignty.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Off white silk duchess satins with black chiffon and a variety of feathers: ostrich, rooster and peacock. Silhouettes are mermaid, tutu and bubble with a variety of necklines.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: Black or grey blazer, black or grey high-waisted pencil skirt and a pair of classic black stiletto pumps.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? I have been around many friends who have experienced it firsthand. Their stories, love and encouragement for one another are truly inspiring. I have run the CIBC Cure for Cancer Run five years in a row and the joy at the finish line is always an experience to cherish.

http://www.theprovince.com/life/Designer+Beverley+Huynh/3735340/story.html#ixzz13f0ZDeE1

Designer of the Day: Lisa McLeod

2010-10-27T16:54:00.001-07:00

Label: Varner

Fashion school: The Art Institute of Vancouver

Theme of your new collection: Athletic street wear.

Colours and fabrics in your new collection: Neon spandex, black leatherette, cotton and fleece with stud accents, grommets, chain and trapunto detailing.

Style icon you most admire: Alexander McQueen.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Rihanna.

Three pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: A great pair of skinny dark denim, a tailored blazer and a colourful scarf.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? My grandmother survived breast cancer at a young age but succumbed to spinal cancer a few years ago. I have always had so much respect for her and felt such a loss when she passed away.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Lisa+McLeod/3730409/story.html#ixzz13bfUaAQD

Vancouver Fashion Week Contest #4

2010-10-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

“When I die I want to go to Vogue.”- David Bailey, English Photographer.

Calling all… Fashion photographers- or- aspiring fashion photographers! Here’s your chance to win tickets to Vancouver Fashion Week! We are looking for creative people to send us their dark fashion photography shots. With Halloween just a few weeks away...the twisted, eerier and creepier fashion the better!

Post your photos on the Vancouver Fashion Week Facebook fan page wall. And Whichever 5 participants present the most weird and dark fashion photo and receive the most comments by the end of the week, each win a pair of tickets to one of the Vancouver Fashion Week shows! Don't forget to name it "Contest #4". GOOD LUCK!

Contests open at 12:00 pm on Sunday October 24th 2010, and closes on Saturday October 29th 2010 at 12:00pm. The winners will be announced by 7pm on October 29th 2010. After winners are announced they will be asked to e-mail aina@vanfashionweek.com with their name, home address, e-mail and phone number. Each contest winner will receive two tickets to a selected Vancouver Fashion Week show.

Awesome Blogger #3

2010-10-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Have a look at Such Fun Things! An amazing blogger from B.C. She posts 'such fun things' everyday so definitely take a look.

Link is here:

http://suchfunthings.blogspot.com/2010/10/vfw-ss-2011.html

Vancouver Fashion Week Line-Ups

2010-10-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

Here is the designer fashion show line ups!

Wednesday November 3rd
Opening the Show Designers
7:00pm Jacqueline Conoir (Vancouver)
8:00pm Valerio Moda (Vancouver)
8:30pm Michel Tudor (Trinidad)
9:00pm Patricia Fieldwalker (Vancouver)

Thursday November 4th
New Generation/Emerging Designers
4:00pm Blake Hyland & Carmina De Young (Vancouver & Ontario)
4:30pm Molto Dance & Queen of Jeans (Vancouver)
5:00pm Haneka Azuma & Sid Neigum (New York & Calgary)
5:30pm Caterine Sanchez & NRT Fashion (Vancouver & Calgary)
6:00pm Kristen Summersgill (Calgary)
6:30pm Kamila Gougain, Lacey Yorston & Anna Isabelle (Vancouver)
7:00pm Sermin Sesoren (Vancouver)
7:30pm Sarah Runnalls (Vancouver)

Friday November 5th
Eco-Friendly Designers
5:00pm Laura Siegel (New York)
5:30pm Nate Organics (Vancouver)
6:00pm Hawks Ave. (Vancouver)
7:00pm TBA
7:30pm Bellissima (Vancouver)
8:00pm Fala Chein (Vancouver)
8:30pm Eva Chen (Vancouver)
9:00pm The Trues (Vancouver)

Saturday November 6th
Local & International
2:00pm- 4:00pm Fashion Seminar
4:00pm Frederick Fung (Vancouver)
4:30pm Papillon Eastern (Vancouver)
5:00pm Ginger Martini & Lori Dawn (Vancouver & USA)
5:30pm Katharine Demarchellier (Toronto)
6:00pm Drew William (Vancouver)
6:30pm Ha Sang Beg (Korean)
7:00pm Doli Lee (Korean)
7:30pm TBA
8:00pm TBA
8:30pm Samars Design (India)
9:00pm Maggie Coulombe (Hawaii)

Sunday November 7th
Local & International Designers
12:30pm Kids Show
2:00pm- 4:00pm Fashion Seminar
4:00pm Andrea Spratt (L.A.)
4:30pm Alvilde David-Andersen (Norwary)
5:00pm Gordana (L.A.)
5:30pm Lisa Jayne Dann (U.K.)
6:00pm James Steward Couture (U.K.)
6:30pm TBA
7:00pm Carolyn Massey (U.K.)
7:30pm Chiyuki Sugimoto (Japan)

8:00pm Simin Haute Couture (California)
8:30pm Kersh (Vancouver)
9:00pm Press (Vancouver)

Designer of the Day: Ingrid Bergstrom Kendrick

2010-10-26T14:44:00.001-07:00

Label: IBEK

Fashion school: Art Institute of Vancouver

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Madonna.

Three classic, versatile pieces you think belong in every stylish wardrobe: A hat, a baggy fitting tank-top, a pair of really worn jeans.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? My grandmother is one of the oldest breast cancer survivors living in Sweden. And my grandma is one of my idols so I’m forever grateful for people working to fight cancer. I did the charity bike ride, the Ride to Conquer Cancer, last year and I’m doing it again next year. All participants raised over $9 million last year. So for me that’s one way of contributing!

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Ingrid+Bergstrom+Kendrick/3728726/story.html#ixzz13VINr0nD

Milano -Boutique Coffee Roasters-

2010-10-26T12:42:00.000-07:00

Vancouver Fashion Week presents...

Milano Coffee!

Three generations of Italian heritage blended with a quarter century of West Coast coffee culture culminate in Milano Coffee's world class Italian expresso and exotic coffees.

At Milano, they combine 7-12 premium Arabica coffee bean varietals from around the world in search of the perfect balance of body, flavour sweetness, acidity and aroma. The result is a truly unique coffee experience; a sensual pleasure, a moment of perfection, a coffee for coffee lovers.

Master Roaster, Brian Turko brings passion, tenacity, expertise and a natural talent for the craft of roasting and blending espresso. Combining careful diligence for Italian tradition with a boundless appetite for innovation, Brian's novel blending concepts have created the 'Milano taste' hailed by coffee connoisseurs everywhere.

Awesome Blogger #2

2010-10-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

Check out Elite Image! They are our Vancouver's "leading image and fashion consultants"!

They wrote a little blurb about us so check it out.

Here is the link:

http://www.eliteimage.org/2010/10/vancouver-fashion-week-november-2-7th-2010/

Designer of the Day: RozeMerie Cuevas

2010-10-25T13:25:00.000-07:00

Label: Jacqueline Conoir

Fashion school: E.S.M.O.D. in Paris.

Theme of your new collection: Sophisticated urban dressing with a modern edge.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Emphasis on muted tones, featuring the return of navy; black is always included. Fabrics are soft and flowing for separates and textured for suiting. Silhouettes are structured yet soft in the drape and details.

Three pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: Skinny pant, whether it is a jean or a black pant. A blazer, whether it is fitted or a boyfriend jacket. A great tunic that can double as a top or a mini dress.

How has your life been touched by cancer? My mother passed away from brain cancer and I have a client who has overcome breast cancer.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+RozeMerie+Cuevas/3723165/story.html#ixzz13P7eC2hV

Awesome Blogger #1

2010-10-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Check out Lack Of Creativity. The blog has a little post about us!

One of our favourite Vancouver Bloggers!!!

http://lackcreativity.blogspot.com/2010/10/vancouver-fashion-week-2010.html

Visit her site for more awesome posts!

Celebrity Style: Whitney Port

2010-10-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

WHITNEY:

1) Balmain Blazer-$2,405.00

2) Chloe Stripped Pullover-$325.00

3) Valentino Studded Bag-$2,930.00

4) Current Elliot Boyfriend Jeans-$260.00

5) Fendi Booties-$790.00

VS.

VFW:

1) Zara Short Cross-Over Blazer-$89.00

2) Urban Outfitters Truly Madly Deeply Stripe Tee-$28.00

3) Urban Outfitters Deena & Ozzy Chain Tote-$58.00

4) Aldo 'Baltierra'-$89.98

5) Urban Outfitters RVCA Boyfriend Jeans-$68.00

TOTAL:

WHITNEY-$6,710.00

VFW-$332.98

Designer of the Day: Sermin Sesoren

2010-10-24T11:05:00.001-07:00

Label: Sermin Sesoren

Fashion education: Mimar Sinan University School of Art and Design (Istanbul) and Vancouver Community College

Theme of your new collection: Being in tune with your femininity and the goddess inside you. I wanted to remind women that they all are beautiful.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Earth tones, faded floral patterns and, of course, texture. Fabrics are cotton, faux leather and chiffon. The silhouettes are form- fitting — feminine with a touch of a raw look to give a primal feel to it.

Three classic, versatile pieces you think belong in every stylish woman’s wardrobe: Fitted black leather or faux leather pants to wear day or night; a sexy, textured sweater to go with the pants; a black, jersey, form-fitting mini- dress that can be worn with leggings/jeans during day or solo at night.

How has your life touched by breast cancer? My grandmother survived her first diagnosis (and had one of her breasts removed), but couldn’t survive the second one at age 85. I admired her strength and passion for life. All women know it could happen to anyone of us. I check for lumps and anything unusual myself, every day.

http://www.theprovince.com/Designer+Sermin+Sesoren/3713857/story.html#ixzz13Ii4X3FL

Designer of the Day: Alvilde David-Andersen

2010-10-22T14:20:00.001-07:00

Label: A.D-A jewelry

Theme of your new collection: My collection has a design that plays with nature’s organic shapes — the feminine and romantic combined with the tough, as well as a taut, architectural and sculptural expression.

The new collection is made of: polished, frosted and oxidized silver, with different types of stones.

Style icons you most admire: Mary Quant from the 1960s was ahead of her time. Today, Tilda Swinton is my style icon. Her androgynous style can also change to feminine elegance.

What should every woman have in her jewelry box? I think everyone should have jewelry that they have inherited from their ancestors, such as a grandmother’s cameo. And everyone should have a piece that expresses their personality. It is always wonderful to see someone daring to combine the classic and old with the new and bold.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? My family has experienced breast cancer, and it is wonderful to see that the increased focus on this terrible disease helps improve research and the chances of recovery. As a part of my loop collection, I made a pink loop-bracelet. By that, I hope to get more people interested in contributing!

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Alvilde+David+Andersen/3712434/story.html#ixzz137nxW9LI

Designer of the Day: Carolyn Massey

2010-10-21T15:34:00.000-07:00

Label: Carolyn Massey.

Fashion school: The Royal College of Art, London.

What is the inspiration of your new collection? Two books: Un-Fashion by Tibor Kalman and Farm by Jackie Nickerson. Inspired by the essentially natural attitude to masculine dressing portrayed in the books, the latest collection also gives a distinct nod to Eastern elegance. All this while retaining the quintessentially English in menswear tailoring,

Colours and fabrics in your new collection? Cotton drill from Italy, Japanese cotton shirting, Merino wool and mainly European manufacture. Cream, stone, mustard and rust alongside Indian ink, petrol blue and navy complement the play on proportion and shape.

Style icon do you most admire? My style icons are people I see — my friends, people I see in the street where I live — this is the most inspiring way to research.

What three pieces do you think belong in every stylish wardrobe? A good pair of brogues, a handmade shirt and a great tailored jacket.

http://www.theprovince.com/entertainment/Designer+Carolyn+Massey/3706122/story.html#ixzz132GSeIx6

Designer of the Day: Gordana Gehlhausen

2010-10-20T07:40:00.000-07:00

Label: GOGA by gordana.

Theme of your new collection: A couture line named “Lady of the Lake.”

Style icons you most admire: Victoria Beckham, Gwen Stefani.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Meryl Streep.

Three pieces that belong in every stylish woman’s wardrobe: A simple cocktail dress in a colour that is suited for the individual. A knit, drapey cardigan. Sleek, skinny black pants.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? Because I am aware of breast cancer, I regularly do checkups and always remind my friends to do checkups as well.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Gordana+Gehlhausen/3696067/story.html#ixzz12uUSAkWx

Designer of the Day: Michel Tudor

2010-10-19T06:39:00.000-07:00

Label: Madam Couture Collections

Fashion education: Fashion Industries NYC.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Bright pink, blue, black and vibrant green stripes and polka dots. We used mostly spandex in this collection to accommodate a wider range

Style icon you most admire: Versace because of the vibrant colours he used.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: I would love to see Lady Gaga or Pink in a Madam Couture piece.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? I lost my cousin to breast cancer 11 years ago. I also lost my grandmother to breast cancer. Two people I really care about and was very close to. I have walked in the Revlon Breast Cancer Walk and UFT Breast Cancer Walk with my daughter 2010.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Michel+Tudor/3690019/story.html#ixzz12oOiSS6c

Vancouver Fashion Week Contest #3

2010-10-17T20:17:00.001-07:00

“It’s hard not to be sexy in a pair of high heels” — Tom Ford

Calling all… Shoe lovers!
Shoes are makeup for the feet! And not diamonds, but heels are a person’s best friend! Here’s your chance to win tickets to Vancouver Fashion Week! We are looking for shoe loving people to send us photos of themselves showcasing their hottest pair of shoes. We want to see you and the shoes, in a creative looking fashion photo. Be creative!

Post your photos on the Vancouver Fashion Week Facebook Fan Page Wall. Remember to title your picture as "Contest #3". Whichever 5 participants receive the most comments by the end of the week, each wins a pair of tickets to one of the Vancouver Fashion Week shows! Good luck!

Contests open at 12:00 pm on Sunday October 10th 2010, and closes on Saturday October 23rd 2010 at 12:00pm. The winners will be announced by 7pm on October 23rd 2010. After winners are announced they will be asked to e-mail aina@vanfashionweek.com with their name, home address, e-mail and phone number. Each contest winner will receive two tickets to a selected Vancouver Fashion Week show.

Designer of the Day: Caterine Sanchez

2010-10-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Label: Caterine Sanchez

Fashion school: Emily Carr University of Art and Design, Istituto Europeo di Design in Milan, Blanche MacDonald .

Theme of your new collection: Rainforest in Vancouver

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: This collection takes its inspiration directly from the wild, with colours and abstracted patterns echoing nature. The fabrics for the women’s line, the fabrics are feminine and soft; silks in chiffon, georgette and organza, as well as easy-to-wear linens and cottons. Cool and comfortable linens and cottons dominate for menswear.

Style icons you most admire: I love Sonia Delauney and Elsa Schaparelli for bold sense of colour, energy and playfulness.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Beyonce.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? I’ve seen the devastating effects of cancer on family members and friends who have lost loved ones. I’ve also seen women and families battle together and overcome breast cancer. It impacts countless lives..

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Caterine+Sanchez/3679435/story.html#ixzz12eCvkItW

Street Style Saturdays

2010-10-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

Age: 22

Occupation: Student

Wearing: H&M jacket, shirt, tights and socks, Urban Outfitters Shoes

Theme of the Day: Vintage/Rocker

Favourite Designer: No particular one

Favourite Stores: H&M, Urban Behaviour, Urban Outfitters, Winners

Designer of the Day: Adam Katz

2010-10-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

Label: NATE (organics)

Theme of your new collection: It’s called “re-Find.” We upcycle men’s vintage designer label silk ties as well as NATE organic Ts from past seasons and vintage “rock” Ts into a collection for the cool, conscious and collected.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Brights and black! Organic cotton, bamboo blends, silk ties from designers like Oscar de la Renta, Bill Blass, Yves St. Laurent and Givenchy. Classic fedoras are made unique with these fine classic print vintage ties — as pinch labels, trims and appliques.

Style icons you most admire: Malcolm McLaren, Michael Jackson and the volumes surfers and skaters who have made ultra basics look so cool effortlessly!

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? Whenever I hear about how cancer impacts lives my heart goes out to those affected. Empathy and support are paramount and we should push to find a cure.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Adam+Katz/3679322/story.html#ixzz12X2Az7LT

Designer of the Day: Joanna Nicole Breaks

2010-10-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

Label: Molto Dance

Theme of your new collection: Dance-inspired fashion.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Colours of passion (plums, blues, scarlets, silvers) and, of course, black pieces — a traditional must-have colour for any dancer. Silhouettes are form fitting and tailored, yet elegant with added fabric strategically placed for movement and volume. The fabrics establish a balance between comfort and luxury; the fabrics include silk chiffons, Italian burnout velvets, stretch French lace and bamboo jersey.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: Higher waisted black wide- leg trousers, a great belt, a sexy bodysuit with no visible pantylines!

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? My Auntie Susan was an amazingly intelligent and talented woman and was a designer herself. Unfortunately, we lost her due to breast cancer. Before she passed, she went to the fabric store and bought tons of fabric for the designs she had sketched. I still have some of it. Keep your eyes peeled for beautiful apricot cotton khaki! That’s one of Auntie Susan’s personal fabric choices! My family misses her and thinks of her every day.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Joanna+Nicole+Breaks/3673549/story.html#ixzz12S3OajrP

Celebrity Style: Blake Lively

2010-10-14T23:05:00.000-07:00

BLAKE:

1) Sandro Blouse-$200.00

2) Chanel Sequin Blazer-$4,200.00

3) Christian Louboutin Volnay Sandals-$1,035.00

4) Valentino Shorts-$990.00

VS.

VFW:

1) Forever 21 Chiffon Top-$32.00

2) Victoria's Secret Sequin Blazer-$159.00

3) Aldo 'Gagner'-$59.98

4) Urban Outfitters Sparkle & Fade Shorts-$49.00

TOTAL:

BLAKE-$6,425.00

VFW-$299.98

Designer of the Day: Press

2010-10-14T06:32:00.000-07:00

Theme of Press's new collection: The journey of a restless heart: cargo inspiration mixed with romantic feminine styling.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in the new collection: Press is a contemporary collection based on flowing, pretty styles in rich neutrals. Textured spring/summer-weight yarns -- modal, cotton blends, chiffon and crepe -- create relatable fashion choices that can be easily incorporated into any wardrobe.

Celebrities Press designers would love to see in the label: Kate Moss and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish woman's wardrobe: Super soft basic Ts that she wants to live in, delicious lightweight v-neck sweaters and a great pair of slim-fit cargos -- all in the perfect neutral tones.

How has the Press team been touched by breast cancer? As a team we have experienced the effects of this issue and we are proud to have strong survivors working with us each day.

http://www.theprovince.com/life/Designer/3669786/story.html#ixzz12L8LALDr

Designer of the Day: Kersh

2010-10-13T16:33:00.000-07:00

Label: Kersh

Theme of Kersh’s new collection: The Great Escape. Shedding her concrete surroundings in search of all things beautiful, focusing on the colours and inspirations experienced along the way.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in the new collection: Kersh is “sexy, West Coast cool.” Blending structured functionality with colourful femininity to create the perfect “pretty tomboy” look. Mixed fabrics, bold prints and light weight novelty sweaters, all with close attention to detail.

Celebrity Kersh designers would love to see in their designs Alexa Chung, the ultimate “girly tom-boy,” and Liu Wen.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish woman’s wardrobe: The perfect V-neck pocket T in white and heather grey; versatile skinny cargos and she can never have enough pretty cardigans.

Kersh designs a breast cancer themed item every year. What is this year’s item? This year, to help raise awareness, we have a tank top with an original graphic created in house by one of our designers. These tops are fashionable and inspirational and have our awareness slogan at the centre back: “Knowledge is power. Unite & Fight!”

http://www.theprovince.com/life/fashion-week10/Designers+Kersh/3659407/story.html#ixzz12Hj6MsKv

Menswear Trends f/w 2010

2010-10-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

Now that you’ve had some time to settle in to your new fall clothes, time to spruce up your beau’s closet! The trends on the menswear runways are relatively similar to those of womenswear. Grays, creams, and other analogous earth tones are dominating the fall collections.

Designers aren't only mixing leather, khaki or jean to make new and innovative pieces for women at houses like Celine, but also men. At Yigal Azrouel, the young, male designer mixed leather with cotton to create a very stylishly bad-ass sweater that one could say encompasses the essence of Azrouel's whole grunge-chic collection.

The ever-so-popular jean shirt phenomenon was seen on the Burberry catwalk, with chunky knit scarves at Michael Kors, and army jackets and camel coats at Banana Republic.

Desert boots, baggy beanies, and aviator-style, leather jackets were seen at Band of Outsiders. And let’s not fail to acknowledge the sultry pouts--which, if I may mention, aren’t needed when one is wearing outfits as nice as these.

Michael Kors

Yigal Azrouel

Burberry

Band of Outsiders

Banana Republic

(photos taken from elle.com)

Designer of the Day: Vivian Wong

2010-10-11T19:50:00.000-07:00

Label: Bellissima

Fashion school: Emod - Paris Fashion School

Theme of your new collection: Relaxed clothing with a feminine, contemporary flare.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in the new collection: Black, greys, purple; wool blends, fabrics with stretch; skinny pants and tunic tops.

Style icons you most admire: Gucci, D&G, Jil Sander, Just Cavalli.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Cameron Diaz.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: Skinny pants, a knee-length pencil skirt and a trench coat.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? I lost a loved one to the disease.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Vivian+Wong/3646234/story.html#ixzz126pRmip4

Designer for Vancouver Fashion Week on Pacific Post

2010-10-08T23:05:00.000-07:00

Label: Eva Chen

Fashion school: Luxin Fine Art University

Theme of your new collection: Muse No.10

Colours, fabrics, and silhouettes in your new collection: mainly white and black with muted accents

Style icons (past or present) whom you most admire: Nicole Kidman

Celebrity you'd love to see in your clothes: Sarah Jessica Parker

Three classic, versatile pieces you think everyone should have in his/her wardrobe: well-fitted jeans, classic blazer, and little black dress

http://www.asianpacificpost.com/community/community/article/vancouverfashionweekevachen

Street Style Saturdays

2010-10-08T14:07:00.000-07:00

Age: 23

Occupation: Student

Wearing: Winners blazer, Urban Behaviour floral dress, Urban Outfitters tights and shoes

Theme of the Day: Vintage

Favorite Designer: Not a big fan of designers

Favourite Stores: H&M, Winners, Forever 21, Aldo

Designer of the Day: Kirsten Summersgill

2010-10-08T08:18:00.000-07:00

Label: POUT Clothing

Fashion school: Lethbridge College Honours Diploma 2009

Theme of your new collection: Party girls’ garden party.

Colours and fabrics in your new collection: A mix of oranges and pinks, with neutrals such as champagne and white. Breathable fabrics such as cotton unlined dresses, chiffon, lace and jerseys. I also chose a heavier weight fabric, such as crinkled polyester, for bottoms and dresses.

Style icons you most admire: Rhianna. I like to think that we have similar taste, but she has more places to go so she always dresses to the nines. And Debbie Harry. She dresses like she doesn’t care; she just found that shirt and tights on the floor, but it looks so good!

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: An up and coming star like Dakota Fanning. I think that’s better then some one already extremely famous because you know that they are so manufactured and it’s not really them, it's their stylist who is choosing their outfits.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: A classic leather piece. A dress with pockets — perfect for going out to dance or dinner. A sexy, high -waisted mini skirt.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? Every year my sister and I do the run/walk for breast cancer in Calgary. I was touched when I noticed that on everyone’s run number they wrote who they were running for. Some people wrote one name and some wrote many. It’s an eye-opener to see how one disease can affect so many people. It's beautiful too see how everyone at the run supports each other. Even though we are strangers we spend the after noon together hugging, laughing and sometimes crying.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Kirsten+Summersgill/3639554/story.html#ixzz11mTwddHU

Designer of the Day: Meredith Grantier

2010-10-07T06:40:00.000-07:00

Theme of Papillon’s new collection: Fresh, flirty, fun and feminine.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in the new collection: This year our collection showcases an exciting palette of brights as well as a softer natural palette of neutrals and earth tones. We took special interest in long, body skimming silhouettes and comfortable, airy pieces as well as structured, tailored looks.

Style icon you most admire: Proenza Schouler for their modern take on classic cuts and their sense of whimsy.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: A celebrity rich with vitality like Katy Perry would best showcase the element of excitement in our spring 2011 line.

Three pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: A little black dress, a classic trench and black pumps — they never go out of style.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? Cancer touches everyone and it is our duty to donate and support any way we can to find a cure.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Meredith+Grantier+Papillon/3633244/story.html#ixzz11gEkqP7F

Vancouver Fashion Week Contest #1

2010-10-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

Calling all Vancouver Fashionistas!
Here’s your chance to win tickets to Vancouver Fashion Week!

Enter the following contests to win:
1) Classy and Fabulous Contest
2) Fashion Loves a Freak Contest

The Classy and Fabulous Contest
“A person should be two things: classy and fabulous.”- Coco Chanel
Are you a fashionista? Do you love all things fashion? If so, then post a photo of yourself in your most classy and fabulous attire on our Facebook Fan Page and you can win a pair of tickets to one of the Vancouver Fashion Week shows! Whichever 5 participants present the most classy and fabulous outfit and receive the most ‘Likes’ by the end of the week each win a pair of tickets to one of the Vancouver Fashion Week shows! Good luck and remember to title your photo with the contest name!

“Fashion Loves a Freak” Contest
As Nigel Barker from America’s next top model would say; “Fashion loves a freak.” So this contest goes out to all fashion freaks! Post a photo of yourself in your most crazy (but tasteful) outfit and pose, on the Vancouver Fashion Week Facebook Fan Page wall! Don’t be afraid to be completely outrageous like the magazine ads are! Remember to title your photo with the contest name! Whichever 5 participants present the most modelesque pose, out of the box outfit and receive the most ‘Likes’ by the end of the week, each win a pair of tickets to one of the Vancouver Fashion Week shows!

Contests open at 12:00pm on Sunday October 3rd 2010, and closes on Saturday October 9th 2010 at 12:00pm. The winners will be announced by 7:00pm on October 9th 2010. After winners are announced they will be asked to e-mail aina@vanfashionweek.com with their name, home address, e-mail and phone number. Each contest winner will receive two tickets to a selected Vancouver Fashion Week show.

Designer of the Day: Rocio Garcia

2010-10-05T13:47:00.001-07:00

Designer: Rocio Garcia

Label: The Queen of Jeans

Fashion education: My mother gave me my “PhD” in fashion. She has always designed, cut and sewn for family and friends. She taught me to sew on my grandmother’s sewing machine and I loved it ! As I grew older, I would travel with her to Colombia into the fabric district to look at and choose fabrics for our “special” projects. Eventually, I would design, choose fabric, cut and sew my own clothes. Today, I am focusing on the design and manufacture of form-fitting jeans that fit women’s bodies well, accentuate their assets and slim their flaws.

Theme of your new collection: Contemporary and sophisticated yet sexy.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: The Queen of Jeans understands that the use of colour can create illusions. Keeping this in mind, we chose to stick close to the base colours for this collection by focusing on grey, blue and black. Slim, skinny and curve-skimming silhouettes are the recurring theme in the QJ collection. The QJ fabric was designed and custom made to our specifications. Our twill-weave fabrics allow us to make jeans that retain their shape.

Style icons you most admire: Gabrielle Bonheur, Coco Chanel, Carolina Herrera and Angel Sanchez.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Shakira.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: A pair of comfortable and classic black heels, a structured and fitted white shirt and, of course, a pair of flattering and form-fitting jeans

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? Two of my family members have been touched by the disease and one of them is currently fighting the disease. A couple of my friends have also been touched by breast cancer. It pushes me to expect more from myself when I see the determination and passion to live that those affected by the disease show us on a daily basis.

Canadian Brest Cancer Foundation!

2010-10-05T13:42:00.000-07:00

Along with Vancouver Fashion Week, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, BC/Yukon Region wants to make sure you don't forget to check. Check what? Your breasts of course. It doesn't matter how, just regularly check your breasts-- look at them and know what they normally feel like. And if there's something that's not normal for you, go and see a doctor. Chances are it's nothing. But if it's not normal for you, get it checked out to be sure. Go to www.dontforgettocheck.com to find out more, take a quiz, boob bomb your friends and more!

You can also follow them on Twitter HERE

Celebrity Style: Nicole Richie

2010-10-04T13:53:00.000-07:00

NICOLE:

1) James Perse Blouse-$155.00

2) Winter Kate Vest-$250.00

3) Erin Wasson X RVCA Denim Shorts-$170.00

4) Wolford Opaque Tights-$52.00

5) Christian Louboutin Ankle Boots-$1,075.00

VS.

VFW:

1) Urban Outfitters Tunic-$54.00

2) Forever 21 Grommet Stud Suede Vest-$32.50

3) Urban Outfitters Renewal Cutoff Denim Shorts-$28.00

4) American Apparel Cotton Spandex Legging-$30.00

5) Aldo 'Iacovone' Booties-$120.00

TOTAL:

NICOLE-$1,702.00

VFW-$264.80

Designer of the Day: Natalia Khon

2010-10-04T06:29:00.000-07:00

Label: Natalia Khon

Fashion school: Jewelry Design and Art program at Vancouver Community College

Theme of your new jewelry collection: Night mystery of the rainforest.

Colours and materials in your new collection: The colours evoke a romantic mood: black, aged gold and shadowy brown. Bright blue, fuchsia and crystals are rarely seen together. Dramatic combinations of metals and stones emphasize the essence of this new collection: tarnished copper, antiqued brass, polished silver, black onyx, shimmering black pearls and auroral crystals. Elegant black lace and hand-crocheted black wire netting provides a sense that the forest is about to unveil its magical wonders.

Style icons you most admire: Coco Channel, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez and Gwen Stefani'.

Three classics, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: A solid colored sweater or the basic black dress is a perfect backdrop for the right piece of jewelry. A white shirt is another staple; it is modern and classic. Last but not least, well-fitted jeans are a must in any wardrobe!

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? Through teaching, I know two students who are suffering from breast cancer. I now realize that any of us are vulnerable to breast cancer. I try to assist any way I can and hope, like we all do, that a future without breast cancer will become a reality some day.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer/3618454/story.html#ixzz11OeFmnBt

Fall/Winter 2010 Trends

2010-10-03T15:28:00.000-07:00

The rain from the past couple of days may have signaled the end of summer, but don’t worry — we are seeing a torrential downpour of beautiful classic pieces on the runways of Fall/Winter 2010.

Fendi

Michael Kors

Banana Republic

Chloe

Dries Van Noten

From Alexander Wang to Zac Posen, it’s raining luxurious furs, sexy leathers, and polished chunky knits. For work, slim, tailored pants, silky and structured blouses, and thin belts worn at the waist are must-haves for the season. And all of these can be found in every neutral tone you can imagine: grays of every shade, almond, camel, cream, taupe, and mushroom colours mesh together on the sleek silhouettes of the modern, working woman. If androgyny is the style you’re more comfortable in, look to Chloe, Celine, Hermes and Dries Van Noten for their fabulous tan and black collections.

At Banana Republic, slim fitted khaki cargo pants were paired with a knit scarf and either a blazer or a fur vest to give the ensemble a youthful look. You can easily mix and match any items from the collection and master the look of effortless chic with messy hair and just a touch of nude makeup.

Chic and comfort can also go hand in hand. This season’s desert booties embody a successful marriage of form and function. These shoes frequented the runways of Alexa Chung for Madewell, Balmain, Banana Republic, Fendi, and Thakoon, among others. I guess everyone is realizing that these booties are indeed made for walking.

(photos taken from elle.com)

Designer of the Day: Lori Dawn

2010-10-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

Label: Lori Dawn

Theme of your new collection: My inspirations for this collection are physics and time travel. And my grandmother gave me fabric from her collection.

Fashion icons you most admire: I admire the style personalities of Grace Kelly and Katherine Hepburn.

Celebrity you'd love to see in your designs: I would absolutely love to see Natalie Portman in my designs.

Three pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: Every woman should have at least one properly sized bra, a pair of fitted jeans - and black cowboy boots, what else?

Street Style Saturdays

2010-10-02T18:36:00.000-07:00

Age: 17

Occupation: Student

Wearing: Knit sweater made by mom, vintage scarf, bag, and shorts, AA tights

Theme of the Day: No particular theme

Favorite Designer: Mom

Favourite Store: True Value Vintage

Street Style Saturdays

2010-10-02T18:35:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Since Vancouver is such a fashionable city, one cannot go about town without noticing the infinite amount of trendsetters scattered ubiquitously. In the next few weeks leading up to Fashion Week, I will be in different locations around the city looking for the next lucky fashionista (or fashionisto) to feature on our blog. The time and location of where I will be is going to be posted on our Facebook fan and group pages, as well as on our Twitter. Definitely check them regularly. Make sure to dress your best, and maybe you'll capture my attention!

Designer of the Day: Ginger Martini

2010-10-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

Label: Ginger Martini

Fashion school: Ryerson University

Theme of your new collection: Ragdoll.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Pinks, blues, purple, yellows, greens, orange, beige and grey. Seersucker and cotton fabrics laced together with ribbons. Sexy, girly, rock star silhouettes.

Style icons you most admire: Coco Chanel — she was fierce! I love everything about her. Gwen Stefani — she always has something interesting going on in her outfits.

Three classic, versatile pieces that should be in every stylish wardrobe: A tank top, beat-up jeans, colourful mittens.

How has your life been touched by cancer? Sadly, I lost my grandfather to cancer several years ago. More recently, one of my aunts lost her battle with the disease this past June. A week after we lost my aunt, I was doing makeup for promos for the Run to End Women’s Cancers. We had 10 survivors come in and tell their stories. It was the most moving experience to witness such bravery in the face of such adversity. We will conquer cancer in our lifetime.

Designer of the Day: Fala Chien

2010-09-30T06:31:00.000-07:00

Label: Play with Fala

Fashion school: John Casablancas Institute

Theme of your new collection: Secret garden.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Bright and vibrant colours such as white, turquoise blue, nude and purple. I used organic fabrics such as silk and bamboo for this collection in support of environmental awareness. Even the simplest lines will still accentuate soft, feminine silhouettes .

Celebrity you'd love to see in your clothes: Angelina Jolie.

Three classic, versatile pieces that should be in every stylish wardrobe: A pretty dress, a good quality T-shirt and fitted jeans.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? I have encountered several people with breast cancer and have seen the physical and emotional pain they had to endure. I am touched by their courage and strength. I believe the increasing public awareness and support has helped and touched many women affected.

Designer of the Day: Sarah Runnalls

2010-09-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

Label: Sarah Runnalls Collection

Fashion school: Blanche Macdonald Centre

Theme of your new collection: Polished, ladylike.

Colours, fabrics, silhouettes in your new collection: Creamy neutrals and brown tones. Structured/textured cotton, wool and silk. Loosely 1950s inspired classic ladylike silhouettes.

Style icons you admire: Louise Brooks, Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, Kate Moss.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: Trench coat, little black dress, tailored trouser.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? A very dear friend of mine has struggled on and off with breast cancer. It has helped me realize that life is too short and it is essential to prioritize the most important aspects.

Designer of the Day: Jenny Sandberg

2010-09-28T06:32:00.000-07:00

Label: Hawks Ave.

Fashion school: Blanche Macdonald

Theme of your new collection: The collection is called Totems. It's got a very Westcoast feel to both the design philosophy and to the artwork. I love the contrast between city life and nature, and there are elements of both in my designs.

What inspired you to start the brand: Hawks Ave is a made here in Vancouver, which is important for both the local economy and the planet. I also wanted to make clothing for women concerned about the planet, but who have an edge to their style.

Who would you love to see in your clothes? Eco-conscious individuals who want to stand out in a crowd.

How has your life been touched by cancer? I have had many family members pass away from cancer and my 26-year-old cousin just got diagnosed with cancer. It's unavoidable in this world to not have cancer touch your life in some way. I think it's amazing that Vancouver Fashion week is teaming up with the BC Breast Cancer Society. It's great that we as designers can show support for those who are fighting through cancer.

http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Hawks/3586482/story.html#ixzz1130uVYo9

Celebrity Style: Alexa Chung

2010-09-27T16:03:00.001-07:00

ALEXA:

1) Vince Degrade Burnout Wedge Tee-$138.00

2) Neal Sperling Cardigan-$38.00

3) Yves Saint Laurent Leather Shorts-You can just guess how much that is!

4) Mulberry 'Roxanne' Bag-$717.00

5) Louis Vuitton Platforms-$600.00

VS.

VFW:

1) Forever 21 Basic Burnout Pullover-$23.80

2) ZARA Knitted Jacket With Cable Stitch Finish-$49.90

3) Urban Outfitters Sparkle & Fade Leather Short-$128.00

4) Urban Outfitters BDG Solid Tartan Tote-$58.00

5) Aldo Vanliere Peep-Toe Pumps-$70.00

TOTAL:

ALEXA-$1493.00 +

VFW-$329.70

Celebrity Style For Less!

2010-09-27T15:48:00.001-07:00

Hey guys! Somehow celebrities always look fabulous, and their outfits usually tend to cost a fortune, but with a little bit of hunting you can find similar looks for a LOT less! The VFW team is here to help you find those very same tasty trends and outrageous outfits with prices that won't hurt your wallet. Every Monday leading up to Fashion Week, we'll feature one famous fashionista, as well as stores where you can find the same looks they're sporting for loads less!

Designer of the Day: Carmina De Young

2010-09-27T06:35:00.000-07:00

Label: Carmina De Young

Theme of your new collection: Elegant contradictions.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: The collection is influenced by the contemporary businesswoman. The palette is mainly the classic neutrals -- black, white and grey -- followed by blue and then red. The fabrics are a blend of light summer wool, silk charmeuse and a printed silk.The silhouettes are traditional with a contemporary touch. The collection includes tailored silhouettes for a more formal look as well as some loose and layered silhouettes for a more casual but still very business-like environment.

Style icons you most admire: Linda Evangelista and Karl Lagerfeld.

Celebrities you'd love to see in your clothes: Naomi Campbell and Penelope Cruz.

Three classic, versatile pieces you think belong in every stylish wardrobe: A silk dress, a pair of casual dress pants, dress jacket.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer?: My aunt had a mastectomy.

Designer of the Day: Lisa Jayne Dann

2010-09-26T22:21:00.000-07:00

Label: Lisa Jayne Dann

Fashion school: Dewsbury College of Art & Design

Theme of your new collection: Eyes wide open.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: An eclectic mix of animal and Aztec prints, sequins and lace in blacks, khaki and soft pinks.

Style icons you most admire: Isabella Blow, for her out-of-the-box style, and the way she championed new designers, such as Alexander McQueen. Victoria Beckham for overcoming all the negative preconceptions, staying true to her own style and becoming an inspirational fashion figure in her own right.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Gwen Stefani.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every stylish wardrobe: Floor-skimming bo-ho dress, classic trench coat and a timeless, classically cut playsuit.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? I’m fully aware that cancer is a disease that affects one in three people at some point in their lives, so I am always keen to get involved and champion the cause wherever I can.

Designer of the Day: Frederick Fung

2010-09-24T12:44:00.000-07:00

Label: Frederick Fung

Fashion school: Helen Lefeaux

Theme of your new collection: Modern city androgynous flappers: easy-fitted casual jackets and pants for both men and women.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Cream, natural, grey and black in linen, cotton and silk in easy-fitted silhouette for both men and women. Lower waist, different lengths of sleeves and pants, draping, textures and minimal colours through out the collection.

Style icons you most admire: Madeleine Vionnet and Isabel Toledo.

Celebrities you’d love to see in your clothes: Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.

Three classic, versatile pieces that should be in every wardrobe: White V-neck T, old and torn jeans and a heavy-yarn knitted cardigan.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? Both my parents were killed by cancer 10 years ago. At my first personal fashion show at the Museum of Anthropology at UBC in 2005, all profits were donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation.

Designer of the day: Sid Neigum

2010-09-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

Label: Sid Neigum

Fashion school: The Fashion Institute of Technology, in New York City.

Theme of your new collection: Heavy machinery.

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Black and grey scale, lots of knits and leather, contrasting hard and soft, “V” silhouettes larger at the shoulders and getting smaller towards the bottom.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Lady Gaga.

Three classic, versatile pieces that should be in everyone’s wardrobe: I usually steer clear of anything labelled “classic.” However, there are three versitile pieces I really love:

1) A poncho (for men and women), which can be worn in many ways; like a cape or wraped as a scarf or of course as a poncho.

2) Coveralls, for men (not the kind mechanics wear), which can be worn up in the winter with a jacket over top or down in the spring/fall and tied at the waist.

3) For lack of a better word, a hood scarf, which is basically a large tube of fabric four feet long and four feet in circumference, and can be worn as a scarf, as a hood, as a shawl, or wrapped as a hat.
© Copyright (c) The Province

Read more: http://www.theprovince.com/Designer+Neigum/3563518/story.html#ixzz10OVQVMhH

Designer of the day: James Steward 2/50

2010-09-22T17:28:00.000-07:00

Leading up to Vancouver Fashion Week, which launches Nov. 3, we are featuring a VFW designer every day.

Label: James Steward Couture

Fashion school: Kent Institute of Art and Design

Theme of your new collection: Clash of the Titans

Colours, fabrics and silhouettes in your new collection: Incorporating panels of fabrics from Yorkshire mills alongside heavy satins and soft, flowing fabrics. The colour palette is muted greys and nudes with flashes of fuchsia.

Style icons you most admire: British fashion legend, Alexander McQueen, John Galliano and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Celebrity you’d love to see in your clothes: Supermodel, Erin O’Connor.

Three classic, versatile pieces that belong in every wardrobe: The perfect black dress, a maxi dress and immaculately tailored trousers.

How has your life been touched by breast cancer? Both my auntie and grandmother had breast cancer, so it’s something which is incredibly close to my heart. My mother is the chairwoman for a regional cancer charity in Yorkshire, and I have often done fashion shows in order to raise money for the cause.

Read more: http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+James+Steward/3557279/story.html#ixzz10J9tKwNw

Designer of the Day: Eva Chen 1/50

2010-09-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

Designer of the Day is Eva Chen

Click on the link below:
http://www.theprovince.com/health/Designer+Chen/3551372/story.html

Vancouver Fashion Week 2010 featured in The Province Newspaper

2010-09-20T16:41:00.001-07:00

Welcome to our brand new blog page. Yes, we've had a makeover. Hope you enjoy the fresh new colours.

Today is an exciting moment here at VFW headquarters - we're featured in The Province Newspaper! The article goes into detail about Vancouver Fashion Week's partnership with The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation to promote Breast Cancer awareness with their new "Don't Forget to Check" campaign. (dontforgettocheck.ca)

Click on the link below to read the feature:

http://www.theprovince.com/health/perfect+Fashion+Week/3548767/story.html

Here are some exclusive "behind the scene" shots taken by the VFW Production team from our Photo Shoot at Kersh, one of the labels that will be featured during Vancouver Fashion Week.

The Province will also be publishing articles every day leading up to Vancouver Fashion Week, which feature participating designers and their collections. Check out the articles, called "Designer of the Day", to get a sneak preview of the collections before they hit the runway.

For more information on Vancouver Fashion Week follow us on Twitter (@VFW2010) and Facebook. You can also check out our website in the next few weeks for show and ticket sales information at www.vanfashionweek.com.

Vancouver's Summer Street Style

2010-06-26T23:01:00.001-07:00

Hey Vancouver Fashion Week readers!

With summer here, everyone seems to be bringing out some hot looks to Vancouver's streets, whether it's day or night.

To continue with some fabulous VFW street style spotting, meet Travis - a Vancouver Socialite who resides in the heart of Gastown. I spotted him on the way to Obakki's "Jazzed Up" fashion party and fundraiser looking well put together from head-to-toe.

What are you wearing? A vintage plaid shirt, Guess jacket and Guess slim straight leg dark washed jeans.

Describe your style: Casual but sophisticated.

What's your favourite store in Vancouver? I really like shopping at Sasso Moda. They have everything from classy business attire to everyday wear with an edge. I love it.

Any style advice? Dress to impress, but don't over do it!

Retarded Velvet: What’s the Story With that Name?

2010-05-03T19:35:00.000-07:00

By Jannette Maedel

One of the new and original collections to debut at Vancouver Fashion Week was a label called “Retarded Velvet.” The odd name coupled with bright electric colors and nontraditional garment shapes charmed and puzzled audiences. In an effort to answer some of the questions that the audience had about Retarded Velvet, including the label’s name, I went to the source.

Over a late lunch latte, I spoke with Theresa James (aka Holiday) about the collection co-designed with partner Roger Prince (aka Capitol). Holiday explains that “Retarded Velvet,” defines that moment when you’re struck by a flash of brilliant inspiration when you least expect it. It is a collision of circumstances where everything comes together in a way that never could have been planned.” Holiday suspects that “if you get the name, you’ll probably get the clothes.” The pair has repeatedly tried to come up with different names for the label in an attempt to avoid backlash but they “could never come up with anything as compelling or that captured our imaginations like Retarded Velvet.”

Read the full interview on ScarletBlackFashion

WINNERS!

2010-04-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

VFW is pleased to announce the winners from the Salon and freelance Hair Competition held during the opening Gala at Open Road Audi:

1st place: Kate Martin of "The Travelling Stylist"

Congrats to Kate who won a photoshoot with one of our feature designers and an ad on ChicWalks!

Student Hair Competition
1st place: Ari Holcombe from John Casablanca
2nd place: Diana Mejia from Blanche Macdonald
3rd place: Ivy Ly from John Casablanca

Congrats to Ari who won the opportunity to key and design the makeup for one of the shows for VFW this fall!

Craving more VFW?

2010-04-15T22:44:00.000-07:00

SEE Pictures from one of our official photographers Mazen Zeidan Here

READ Reviews by one of our official writers Sara Dzaman Here

Drew William: The Dress That Everyone is Talking About

2010-04-13T13:43:00.000-07:00

By Jannette Maedel

The most talked about dress in Vancouver Fashion Week - Drew William’s soft feathers caught between a layer of black sheer fabric and white satin. The slight weight of the feathers causes them to shift down toward the hem of the dress creating a soft bubble effect.

READ the full article here.

Last Day on the Runway

2010-04-12T23:26:00.000-07:00

Backstage Pass to VFW - Part 3

2010-04-12T22:45:00.000-07:00

Opening Gala Video

2010-04-11T22:43:00.003-07:00

Backstage Pass to VFW - Part 2

2010-04-11T14:15:00.000-07:00

Day 3 Highlights

2010-04-11T14:10:00.000-07:00

FLARE attends VFW

2010-04-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

We're pleased to have Luisa Rino, FLARE's west coast correspondent, attend VFW this season.

Luisa thought Red Jade presented a strong collection this year. It was in line with the casual luxury trend that is going strong for Fall/Winter 2010. Red Jade "worked the wool and hems beautifully". Her favorite piece from the line was the light-grey pleated pencil pant.

Read FLARE's coverage of VFW:
DAY 1
DAY 2

Eva Chen Does Glamour

2010-04-11T12:03:00.000-07:00

By Jannette Maedel

Eva Chen’s collection shown last night at Vancouver Fashion Week was steeped in old Hollywood glamour. Think of Marlene Dietrich in Shanghai during the 1940’s and you will begin to get a sense of the enchantment and tasteful eroticism that is shown in this collection.

READ the full article here.

Win A Chance to See Your Favorite Female Artist Perform Live

2010-04-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

Universal Canada/Contiki to Award Trip for 2 to L.A or N.Y. to Heel Lovers at TheBrokenHeelDiaries.com

Contiki and Universal Canada are giving heel lovers a place to put their own favorite pair of heels on display for a chance to see their favorite female Universal artist perform live in New York City, New York or Los Angeles, California. A new online contest, “These Heels Were Made for Walking… and That’s Just What They’ll Do” (TheBrokenHeelDiaries.com) will display pairs of the fancy footwear direct from personal closets and share them with the world.

The contest runs from March 18th 2010 – April 31th, 2010. Entrants must upload a picture of their favourite pair of heels to the site and tell the world why they are the perfect travel companion to NYC or LA. Visitors will vote for their favourite entries and can enjoy the music of Universal recording artists Hole, VV Brown, Melanie Fiona, Hayley Sales, Fefe Dobson, Erykah Badu, Florence & The Machine, and Gin Wigmore on the Universal Canada media player.

Each week a music prize pack will be given to a lucky voter. At the end of the contest, the entrant with the most votes for their upload will win the grand prize trip for 2 to their choice of NYC or LA, courtesy of Contiki and see their favourite female Universal artist perform live. Winner will be announced May 1st, 2010. For rules and regulations visit: www.TheBrokenHeelDiaries.com.

Key Links:
“These Heels Are Made for Walking” contest site: www.TheBrokenHeelDiaries.com
Universal Canada: www.getmusic.ca
Contiki: www.contiki.com

About Contiki
The Contiki philosophy is simple. Create fun, hassle-free holidays with an unbeatable mix of sightseeing, culture, friendships & free time. We are the worldwide leader in tours for 18-35's, operating tours in over 40 countries around the world.

About The Broken Heel Diaries
TheBrokenHeelDiaries.com is an online collection of articles written from the perspective of young successful women. We cover everything from, life’s challenges to which I refer to as the “broken heel” moments to, events, fashion, beauty and great new products & services. All of which are important to today’s successful woman.

For more information about this topic please contact [Tamara Shelly] 647-238-4544 or Tamara@TheBrokenHeelDiaries.com

Stylish Attendees

2010-04-10T17:40:00.000-07:00

Meet Michael from The Haute Bitch Blog and his friend Samantha. Intrigued by the soft and pretty shoulders from ORANGE's collection, both of them agreed it was by far their favorite show of the night. We think Michael and Samantha's chic looks should take the runway next!

An Intake of Breath and the Perfect Dress: The True’s Magic Moment

2010-04-10T16:45:00.000-07:00

By Jannette Maedel

There is a moment – an intake of breath, when a woman enters a room in the perfect dress.

One of those rare moments occurred last night at Vancouver Fashion Week. It happened later in the evening. Photographers were getting a little tired after having already photographed four fashion shows. The lights came up, the music started and there was a sense of anticipation. The room vibrated with expectation as the new show started.

A model appeared at the beginning of the catwalk. She began to stroll down the runway and there were gasps of appreciation. Low mumblings gave way to louder outbursts as the model of the moment made her way to the end of the runway. There were spontaneous shouts of appreciation as the model posed at the end of the runway. She shared a knowing look with the camera.

READ the full article here

Buzz from the Media

2010-04-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

Check out what The Vancouver Sun is saying about VFW:

Designers, models, fashionistas kick off Vancouver Fashion Week with gala

When women dress up and men look natty

Runway shows kick off during Vancouver Fashion Week

Reach Magazine:

Vancouver Fashion Week 2010 | Reach Designer Picks

Interview with Adrian Wu @ Vancouver Fashion Week

DAY 2 on the Runway

2010-04-10T10:55:00.000-07:00

Backstage Pass to VFW

2010-04-10T10:53:00.000-07:00

Adrian Woos the Media

2010-04-09T17:01:00.000-07:00

By Jannette Maedel

Designer Adrian Wu, wooed the media at Vancouver Fashion Week. Wu’s evening attire offered one of the most sought after photo opportunities at Vancouver Fashion Week’s Opening Gala. Throughout the evening he happily posed with his signature bow.

Read the Full Article on ScarletBlack Fashion Blog

Day 1 on the Runway

2010-04-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

Olivia and Jose, Vancouver Fashion Bloggers

Tonight is Eco-Friendly Fashion, including designs from Lav&Kush, Red Jade, Eva Chen, Niche, and The True's

Do you have your ticket yet?

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
VIP Tickets: Please E-mail dika@vanfashionweek.com

Visit the Van Fashion Week Official Website for more info and check out this Season’s line-up and Full Designer Schedule.

More on the Opening Gala!

2010-04-09T16:11:00.000-07:00

VFW Day 1: Opening Gala
by: Jessica Linnay

The Crowd: Excited designers with exquisite models in tow, denim-clad photographers behind large cameras, hawk-eyed buyers and a sprinkling of local fashionistas, wine glasses in hand.
The Mood: Raw excitement, pride and nervousness inflating the Audi showroom with ego, visual impression and a lust for luxury.
The Gear: VFW-featured designs including by Adrian Wu, Lav & Kush, Porscia, Drew Williams and Retarded Velvet, and a handful of local and freelance artists showcasing their talents by sporting their best pieces.

The first official gathering for Vancouver’s 10th Annual Fashion Week took place on an unseasonably cold and windy evening in the eco-conscious capital of Canada—fitting weather, however, to launch Fall/Winter 2010 collections from both the city’s best designers, as well as by international guests. The mood was upbeat as attendees mingled amongst clothing, hair and accessory models and the flash bulbs from media photographers was constant. But amidst all the luxury and glamour was an undercurrent of earthiness unique to West Coast culture.

Vancouver fashion is renowned for maintaining a unique blend of the stylish and the sustainable, and VFW 2010’s Opening Night Gala was bursting with an enthusiastic and forward-thinking group of artists clearly conscious of both sides of this couture coin. Conversations about aesthetics often changed to discussions of eco-friendly processes, and the Rainy City’s community support was evident in explanations of domestic production and co-operative promotions. Between the hair and make-up expo competition, the official launch ribbon-cutting and the sumptuous catering from Truffle Foods, there was little time to absorb the sheer amount of vision coming from the both emerging and established designers on location.

In the whirlwind world that is fashion one thing remained clear as VFW 2010 began its launch: that this year would set the pace both for VFW history, as well as for sustainable fashion on a global scale!

VFW LIVE STREAM

2010-04-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

Now you can see all the action wherever you are. Streaming LIVE from Van Fashion Week.

WATCH VFW LIVESTREAM

Opening Gala at OpenRoad Audi

2010-04-08T01:03:00.001-07:00

Vancouver Fashion Week kicked off yesterday with a Bang. OpenRoad Audi was filled with designers, models, photographers, makeup and hair stylists, and fashion enthusiasts. It was a sneak preview of what designers are bringing to the runways this season and every minute was a photo-op! Creative energy flowed through the space as the hair competition took place with one avant-garde look after another. In between chocolate-covered strawberries, cameras, and smiles, was a great night to mingle and a fantastic start to Van Fashion Week. Are you ready for the runway shows tonight?

VFW is pleased to introduce you to a few writers that will be covering the shows this season. Our lovely writers will be attending runway shows and various events while sharing their experiences with us.

Sara Dzaman is a writer for Canada Shoes Examiner @ Examiner.com. Here's what she had to say about her night at the Opening Gala:

"I had the wonderful opportunity to talk with Teresa James & Roger Prince, who make up Retarded Velvet. They are new to VFW and have bold new ideas mixed with impeccable design and construction. They were standing with none other than Linsay Willier from Canada's Next Top Model Cycle 3, whom I was very excited to see. In fact, I was so excited that I shouted "Oh My God, Hi!!! I know who you are!!!!' right in her face when I realized who she was. Not very professional. But we all had a good laugh over it and moved on (thankfully!). Teresa and Roger took a trip to India last year and their collection was inspired by what they experienced there, as well as the bold shapes and looks from the 80's. Tres ecclectic, n'est pas? She cited Rick James as an influence, and anyone that called Rick James as influence is OK in my books." Click here to read the full article

Jannette Maedel is no stranger to fashion writing. She has an extensive background in fashion design and teaches Fashion Writing at VCAD. Did I mention she has a wonderful blog called ScarletBlackFashion? Check out what she had to say about the opening night:

"The mood of fashion celebration and a heightened sense of occasion was emphasized by the “Avant Garde Hair and Make-up Competition,” organized by Noel Hines. Six local contestants each entered a hair and make-up model in the “Avant Garde” contest. These striking models mingled with guests, designers, and fashion industry stars. Salons and freelance stylists entered in the contest include: Axis Salon, Chatters, Stratosphere, Kate the Traveling Stylist, Robyn Jenkins, and Ella Bak. "
Click here to read the full article

In case you missed it, here are some highlights from the night:

Gearing up for VFW? Watch our video from last season

2010-04-07T15:13:00.000-07:00

Lights, Camera, VFW!

2010-04-07T13:15:00.000-07:00

Get ready fashionistas!
Vancouver Fashion Week officially kicks off today!

OPENING GALA at OpenRoad Audi
2375 Boundary Road, Vancouver, BC V5M 4W5

AFTER PARTY at Celebrities
1022 Davie Street, Vancouver BC V6E 1M3
Tickets will be available at the door for $15.
Doors open at 10 pm.

Tickets to Runway Shows April 8th-11th

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
VIP Tickets: Please E-mail dika@vanfashionweek.com
Visit the VFW Office (#410-777 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, BC)

Visit the Van Fashion Week Official Website for more info and check out this Season’s line-up and Full Designer Schedule.

Meet Julie Brown

2010-04-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

By Yvonne Young

Julie Brown has always been naturally drawn to make-up artistry. Predominantly inspired by world famous make up artist Pat McGrath, Julie prides herself on being able to adapt and re-create even the most current and cutting-edge makeup trends. It is this combination of inventiveness and skill that she hopes will set her apart from her contemporaries and lead her to her dream job: working runway shows every season in the fashion capitals of the world. “The hustle and chaos of the runway is so extremely exciting,” raves Julie. As for now, Julie loves giving consultations to help women feel more confident about the way they apply and wear their make up. Before applying make up, Julie insists that one of the most important tips she can share is to ensure you properly prep your skin with exfoliation and moisturizer to ensure it achieves its maximum beautifying potential. It's one way to make sure we won't miss Julie's signature smokey-eyes on the runways - we can't wait!

VFW KICKS OFF TOMORROW

2010-04-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

Vancouver Fashion Week F/W 2010 officially kicks off Tomorrow!

Get your ticket before it's SOLD OUT

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
VIP Tickets: Please E-mail dika@vanfashionweek.com OR
Visit the VFW Office (#410-777 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, BC)

Visit the Van Fashion Week Official Website for more info and check out this Season’s line-up and Full Designer Schedule.

Designer Preview: Red Jade

2010-04-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Red Jade creates sophisticated and ultra-feminine clothing which embodies the spirit of a confident woman. Our mission is to inspire women to empower themselves, by enhancing their own individual style while being mindful of the environment. Using Eco-Luxurious fabric such as hemp, organic cotton, merino wool, silk and linen, their moto is "Be who you really are love, laugh, play and wear Red Jade"

Red Jade showing at VFW on April 9th, 2010.

Get your ticket now:

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
E-mail Dika: dika@vanfashionweek.com OR
Visit the VFW Office (#410-777 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, BC)

Makeup Artist Feature: Melanie Tremblay

2010-04-06T09:41:00.001-07:00

As a bride herself five years ago, Melanie Tremblay appreciated the amazing service she received from her hair and makeup artist. She wishes to provide other brides with the same kind of warm, friendly, professional service she knows makes a difference. Here's Melanie on her big day:

This year VFW is pleased to have Melanie and her team from Mink Makeup and Hair backstage beautifying our runway models. Melanie runs a successful agency and has worked with an impressive list of commercial clients including Hugo Boss and Procter & Gamble.

A Moment with Melanie...

Name? Melanie Tremblay

Current occupation? Owner of Mink Makeup & Hair and freelance makeup artist

Where are you from? Originally from the frozen tundra of Edmonton, AB

Did you have any formal makeup training? I did my beauty and fashion makeup schooling at the Makeup Designory in Manhattan.

How did you get involved in the industry? I was working as a program coordinator in the non-profit sector for five years and in the last two I started to feel like I couldn't envision the rest of my career being office-bound. I needed a creative and entrepreneurial direction. Since I had always been interested in makeup, design, creating anything both beautiful and functional I decided to start pursuing a career in the beauty industry. I took on volunteer makeup jobs at first, then decided to go school for makeup and finally after three years of working at this part time I quite my "day-job" as of September 2009 and am now a full-time makeup and hair artist.

Who inspires you? My husband, who started his own successful business at the age of 19. He understands all the ups and downs I go through as the creator of a business. Artistically I'm inspired by Sam Fine who does the most amazing work on women of color, and my friend Ghassan Shanti who isn't afraid of taking risks in makeup and in life.

How would you describe your signature look? Glowing skin with blended, beautifully contoured eyes.

What's the most important beauty advice you can give to our readers? Don't forget to care about your lips! 90% of women I do makeup on have chapped, peeling, lined, or dry lips. Use lip balm with SPF and rub lips with a wash cloth in the shower to exfoliate them to keep them soft and young-looking.

What are some of your favorite hair/beauty products? Make Up For Ever Face and Body Foundation, it's like applying a light and luminous second skin. L'Oreal's liquid eyeliner pencil, it's a pencil eyeliner that gives you a perfect deep black line that glides on beautifully like a liquid. Ojon's Rub-Out Dry Cleanser for hair, the handiest hair product on the planet!

Which celebrity would you like to work with and why? Iman, Iman, Iman. Do you have her agent's phone number...? She's got the most beautifully shaped eyes to "play" with as a makeup artist, has the most stunning skin and bone structure and is an icon with a sassy personality to match. I love her.

What sets you apart from others in the industry? I have a well-rounded balance of an easygoing and friendly personality, a professional demeanor and integrity, and a solid creative eye and artistic hand. Plus I know how to perfectly curl lashes using only a spoon!

Designer Preview: Adrian Wu

2010-04-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

Designer: Adrian Wu

Hometown: Burlington, Ontario

Education: Istituto Marangoni in London, England.

Who are you envisioning when you create your designs?
I'm not really envisioning anyone per se when I create my designs, but I do have designers that I look up to. I look up to Christian Dior specifically because he was one of the great designers of fashion history. He understood the way women should wear clothes, in extenuating the hips and creating clothes that were seen as luxurious but simple.

What inspired you to enter the fashion industry?
I see fashion as a historic and extremely meaningful profession. You look on the streets today, and you fail to see the meaning behind clothes. Where fashion has become this marketplace where consumers simply look at the label or logo rather then the design or meaning behind the piece of clothing, or shoe, or bag. So my inspirations to enter the fashion industry, well . . . are people. And my obsession with people and my ideas.

What are your favourite fabrics for fall and winter?
I would say knitwear of course, but if you notice in my dresses, I like to use drapery fabrics in almost all my pieces, mainly because it represent the olden days where fashion and designers began. But in terms of colour, I don’t think anyone should stick with certain colours no matter what season, except to always keep with basic neutrals and maybe throw in a pink or yellow here or there. Then again that is also my personal style.

What is the theme of your show at Vancouver Fashion Week?
The theme of my show is based on “shapes rather then style.” And mainly a debut of my work, hopefully showing how I don’t really believe in detail per-se but a dress to be “in your face.”

Adrian Wu showing at VFW on April 11th, 2010.

Get your ticket now:

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
E-mail Dika: dika@vanfashionweek.com OR
Visit the VFW Office (#410-777 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, BC)

Designer Preview: Civil Society

2010-04-05T23:27:00.000-07:00

Owners Bob and Ramin Roofian, of Urgent Gear Inc., have teamed up with designer Brad Schwartz, previously of Fender Custom Shop, English Laundry, and Robert Graham, to create a distinctive young men’s contemporary clothing line. When asked specifically about the design direction of the line Schwartz explains,” We initially wanted to do everything at once, but we quickly learned what we really needed to do was stay focused on just creating great product... We have developed a very distinct point of view that combines finely tailored European details with an American contemporary twist.

Civil Society prides itself on bringing runway looks that are not only fashionable but wearable too. Our customers are very diverse and encompass many walks of life. Having captured the true essence what a contemporary line needs to be on today’s very competitive sales floor, their graphics are very tongue and cheek and always have a meaning, message, or make some kind of statement.

Civil Society showing at VFW on April 8th, 2010.

Get your ticket now:

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
E-mail Dika: dika@vanfashionweek.com OR
Visit the VFW Office (#410-777 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, BC)

Featured Makeup Artist: Angel Dayupay

2010-04-05T23:08:00.000-07:00

By Melody Phu

As a makeup artist for MAC and Boomroomfilms.com, this talented artiste was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. Basically self-taught, Angel’s success in the industry spans 12 years. Angel credits her inspiration and first break to hubby, and founder of Boom Room Films, Boom. This ‘used-to-be insecure girl’, aims to do more than just make someone pretty. She uses makeup to enhance the natural beauty inherent in every client so that they leave with a renewed confidence in the beauty they possessed all along. This introspective optimism is rooted in Angel’s dynamic persona as a mother, wife, performer, and cook; a true all-around artist. So what are her favorite beauty products? Angel raves about MAC paint pots for their versatile waterproof matte color that can also double as an eye primer, as well as MAC lip primer and brushes. Although you will never catch Angel without her MAC essentials, she believes that kindness is truly the best accessory. Get inspired by Angel at VFW this season!

Designer Preview: Jen Cameron

2010-04-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

Vancouver-based designer Jen Cameron first became interested in fashion after finding her grandmother’s 1949 sewing machine. Jen enrolled in Vancouver Community College (VCC)’s two year fashion arts diploma program. Jen’s designs were first featured in a fashion show organized by UBC students as a fundraiser for their model United Nations in Spring 2009.

Jen Cameron`s graduating collection was inspired by the style of Japanese art known as the “Floating World.” The clothing featured a Japanese cherry blossom print, bows and band detailing. Before her collection debuted at Fiat Mode, the VCC’s fashion show, Jen joined her father on a business trip to Japan. There, she organized a photo shoot with a Tokyo-based model and photographer.

Following the VCC fashion show, Jen was invited to participate in Vancouver Fashion Week’s international design competition. Selections from her graduating collection were shown on Sunday, November 8, 2009. Jen tied for first place in the People’s Choice Award, based on audience votes. This made her the only Vancouver-based designer to be recognized. Selections from her graduating collection were also featured in Vancouver Fashion Week’s New Generation Showcase during the Olympics.

Jen Cameron’s past work can be seen in the online magazine at www.FashionBerry.com.
The prize for the People’s Choice award is an opportunity to show at Vancouver Fashion Week in spring 2010. Jen will present a full line of clothing for the Fall 2010 season. The next collection is inspired by birds of prey; it features feathers and black silk.

Jen Cameron showing at VFW on April 11th, 2010.

Get your ticket now:

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
E-mail Dika: dika@vanfashionweek.com OR
Visit the VFW Office (#410-777 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, BC)

Featured Makeup Artist: Khushi Brar

2010-04-05T22:54:00.000-07:00

Name: Khushi Brar of Just Khushi Artistry Inc.

Current occupation: Freelance Makeup & Hair Artist

Who inspires you? Make up artist - the late Kevyn Aucoin

What's the most important beauty advice you can give our readers? Having a great skin care regimen, washing your face before bed (no excuses) and drink plenty of water.

What are some of your favorite hair/beauty products? Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray, Laura Mercier Foundation Primer, MAC Paint Pots

What is your ideal job? Exactly what I have a passion for... the art of makeup and hair.

We're thrilled to have Khushi as a part of our makeup team for VFW this season!

Designer Preview: Papillon

2010-04-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Papillon develops and produces distinctive lines of contemporary women's apparel and accessories. Their garments are easy-to-wear, unique, fun, elegant, sexy and noticeable. The line fits into everyday occasions as well as into the evening. Papillon has been operating out of its Vancouver corporate office for the past thirty-four years and the lines are carried in specialty boutiques and chain stores across North America. Papillon's mission is to satisfy the fashion needs of a modern, detail oriented and elegant woman.

Papillon showing at VFW on April 11th, 2010.

Get your ticket now:

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
E-mail Dika: dika@vanfashionweek.com OR
Visit the VFW Office (#410-777 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, BC)

Designer Preview: Fever Clothing London

2010-04-05T21:16:00.000-07:00

Fever proves to be one of Britain’s most exciting independent fashion brands. Since the launch in 1996 the label has acquired a reputation for designing innovative yet timeless collections season after season. Fever’s individual style is inspired by original vintage prints redesigned with a contemporary edge and is suitable for all aspects of life, work, and play, right through to evening and special occasion wear.

Fever Spring/Summer 2010 collection is a voyage to a time gone by with vintage inspired frills, bows and polka dots. The storyline is colorful with splashes of tropical brights - bold reds, candy pinks and sky blues. A range of vibrant prints are reminiscent of a holiday paradise, while pleats and feminine draping give the collection a sensuous mood, combining femininity and glamour of the holiday making of days gone by. SS10 collection brings back the classic shapes that have now become a trademark of Fever as well as introducing baby doll shapes, maxi styles and shift dresses. The overall mood of the season’s collection brings back childhood memories of sunny playful days on a seaside promenade.

FEVER showing at VFW on April 8th, 2010.

Get your ticket now:

Buy Online on CLUBZONE.COM
E-mail Dika: dika@vanfashionweek.com OR
Visit the VFW Office (#410-777 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, BC)

COUNTDOWN TO VFW

2010-04-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

Get your ticket before it's SOLD OUT