Fall 2013 with Rudsak / Preview Event #Stardust

A couple of days ago I had the unique privilege of experiencing Rudsak, one of Canada's premiere and most sought-after Design Houses, present their Fall 2013 Preview here in Toronto at the beautiful Templar Hotel; uniquely titled Stardust. Before I start ranting about the beauty of design and how incredible it all is, I should speak first about the impact Rudsak carries with it, and why that in itself is cause for celebration enough.

Hailing from Montréal, and ruling it, Rudsak has been an inspirationally powerful brand since it's inception almost two decades ago. Possessing an aesthetic that bases itself on rich, luxurious materials; Rudsak often manages to balances the fine line of Canadian rustic-heritage with inner-city, youthful polish. Clean lines, brilliant palettes, and an urban edge balance out a traditionally strong aesthetic of functional luggage-wear and seasonally practical outerwear. The quality of their leather, being known for the way they use it, is unmatched in our market - and you honestly can't appreciate it (which is something I quickly learned) until you see it.

The Fall 2013 Preview event I attended was guided by Matt, a representative of the iconic brand, who carefully, methodically, and passionately guided us through a variety of staple looks for Rudsak's Autumn. From the get-go I was immediately smitten by the quality of the leather. I saw Rudsak present this season at World MasterCard Fashion Week but I had no idea how incredible the pieces actually were until I saw them up close. The Moto-Jackets were fiercely cut, inky black, and detailed in a Gold Lamé-esque fabric and Faux-Pony in the most brilliantly rich Oxblood. The structured boning, clasps, and zips were an embrace of a past era - 70's disco meets 90's grunge, as Matt would say, in tandem with the line's name; Stardust. And also, quite clearly, in tandem with the 90's elements we've been seeing trend enormously in Fashion this Season.

Despite the awesome aesthetic of the Collection, I was more impressed by the amount of design intelligence. Every piece in Rudsak's arsenal of leather and coats were multi-functional and incredibly detailed - from the fabric choice to the piping to the way it's worn. They are extremely high quality and you can easily get two, even three looks from almost every one of their classic Winter pieces. Many coats were multi-layered; featuring unique button closures, texturally diverse leather, nylon, and fur; and the option of removing, adding on, or altering at least one part of the coat as you wear it. Brilliant design composition - both functional and beautiful; quality meets grace, it's really quite awesome!

One of my favourite pieces of the entire presentation was a beautifully striped, cowl-necked Winter dress. It was textured in intricately lined strips of leather with black mesh in between, but it cut and curled around the curves of the body in bold triangles and shapes, creating form through it's texture. It was a beautifully detailed pieces that you could easily dress up or down in the richest black, which was a huge palette theme for the entire Rudsak showcase. Love!

Some of the best pieces of the entire showcase were the accessories. Boasting a brilliant mix of fur lined hats, chic, iPhone sensitive leather gloves, and both wax-coated and chalkboard-finished leather satchels in the richest colours. Like we've said before, Rudsak is famous for their luggage-wear, and this season's Collection is no exception. The quality of the bags are bar-none, and yet they remain totally affordable in a high designer market. Finished cleanly or distressed, the wax-coated leathers are luxurious to the touch as well as the sight. I highly recommend investing in some of their luggage if you're being introduced to Rudsak for the first time; it will give you a sense of the quality of the leather without the price tag of a full Winter coat. But, chances are, if you love the bag as much as I know you will, you will probably get the coat to partner!

Rounding out the entire showcase was a diverse mix of new Rudsak Menswear. Matt was quick to point out that Rudsak is interested in investing more time in Menswear, which, as a person who is an advocate for the evolution of Men's Design, was thrilling for me. He presented us with more brilliant black knitwear, some of which were wax-coated in glossy finishes that mirrored their brilliant coats; as well as a unique and quality collection of powerful bubble coats and classic Moto-cuts. We were smitten from beginning to end.

Rudsak continues to be an International leader in leather design hailing from a Canadian market. I couldn't be more proud nor impressed with the aesthetic, incredible quality, and amazing functionality of their Fall 2013 Collection that continue to keep Rudsak at the forefront of amazing fashion. It was an absolute pleasure!

Visit Rudsak in Downtown Toronto at the corner of Queen & John and invest in some fantastic Winter wear today. Show your support for Canadian Fashion and Canadian talent!

315 Queen Street West

Toronto, Ontario

M52 2A4

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Monochromatic Fantasy at One King West / Lucian Matis Fall 2013

We were enamoured from the moment we walked through the entrance. The opulence of one of Toronto's most iconic buildings, One King West, evoked a grandeur and a prestige only a Collection by Lucian Matis could rightfully equal. Huge columns arched by massive bay windows and stunning gold crown moulding throughout. I'm sure you all remember Matis' majestic and jaw-dropping Collection during Fashion Week last year at the Fairmont Royal York; we thought it was the best of the year. This year, one of Toronto's most celebrated Designers took us in an entirely new direction.

A private showing to an invite-only crowd (thanks for inviting me Lucian!), Monochromatic Fantasy took place in the Grand Ballroom of One King to a packed house of industry professionals, celebrities, designer guests, and media. We were treated to hors d'oeuvres, Bailey's cocktails, and delicious treats pre-show. Once runway began, in an unexpected twist, Matis presented an exclusive Bailey's creation gown to start the show as almost, I can only imagine, a nod to the prestige of his last showing. Featuring the same, repeated aesthetic of incredibly detailed, hand-cut patterns and a brilliant gown; this starting dress was a glimpse of nostalgia; and it, like it was in the past, was quite epic. 

Monochromatic Fantasy was everything the name suggested; a stark, clean palette presented with an air of regal majesty. Huge gowns in the crispest, angel white were dramatic and powerful in shape but simple in essence. Minimalist forms and minimalist colours evoked an aesthetic that was a total departure form the over-detailed, over-worked, and over-shiny that we are often accustomed to with a man of Matis' talent. Instead we are treated with something a little unexpected but equally great; it almost acts like the energy of the Collection as opposed to the grandeur of the material or the aesthetic itself. The clothes acted like images, and the Collection, like all Fashion Shows, existed perfectly in that moment. The white was flowing and bright, the cool greys were sharp and architectural, and the blacks were rich and chic. Dotted with textural elements of over-sized fur and the occasional matte leather, Monochromatic Fantasy was a nod to the greatness of true simplicity; something that it is uniquely difficult to do. Something like this requires the best trained hand and perhaps an even greater eye; without the option of bedazzlement or intersecting lines to create balance - the balance, the harmony of the form, becomes entirely dependent on the form itself. No line can be sewn out of place and no shoulder can be shaped differently; it calls for absolute control and absolute grace in execution. That is true craftsmanship, and simplicity of this caliber can be achieved be no one less than a masterful technician.

All incredible images Copyright 2013 to Michael Ho (Michael Ho Photography)

A brilliant, bright, powerfully soft presentation. Thank you again Lucian.

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Day 1 at World MasterCard Fashion Week / Pink Tartan

Pink Tartan presented their Fall 2013 showcase last night at opening night of World MasterCard Fashion Week right here in Toronto. Presented at almost overflowing capacity, Pink Tartan showcased beautiful florals, 50's-60's era dresses and elements, and brilliantly coloured fur.

Pink Tartan is often praised for their beautiful femininity and classic shapes - this Season the Designer took that even further by adding totally Seasonal retro elements throughout. If it wasn't that 60's-era hair it was that 50's cut dress. Beautifully lined with a modern edge in touches of glossy leather, black leather, and bright power-pigments like Candy Pink, Superman Blue, and that beautiful Olive Green we've been seeing so much of recently; Pink Tartan's aesthetic was classically feminine for the Autumn Season. And, much like Bustle, it was refreshing to see Pink Tartan play with pigments that go beyond the seriousness of Fall Fashion - the bright tones are more reminiscent of what we adopt for Spring; which makes it that much more engaging, that much more bold, for Autumn. A nice touch.

The fur was epic, to say the least. Pink Tartan is known for using fur quite often, but not as often as they did last night. Bright jackets in Deep Browns, Bright Blue's, and Calico Golds dominated the Runway. We especially adored the White fur dotted and striped with beautiful Black lines - it was easily the stand-out piece of the entire Collection. Golds, Silvers, and Greys were a tour-de-force amidst the brightness, and the Chanel-cut tweeds were professional, sharp, and classically 50's. Very nice!

All Credit for the amazing photos go to George Pimentel

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In-Studio with Heather Lawton at New York Fashion Week! / #NYFW

After having the privilege of seeing first-hand Heather Lawton's fantastic debut Collection at New York Fashion Week, I had the chance to meet her in person at her Studio in Chelsea. I was accompanied by our production team (those of whom I am collaborating on this new film project with) to interview her, see and feel some of her incredible Collection pieces, as well as talk about this new collaboration we've been working on.

Heather was an absolute pleasure to meet and chat with. Not only is her aesthetic fiercely bold and totally on-point seasonally; but she is a charming, creative, and passionate designer totally devoted to taking her line to the highest ranks possible. Hailing from Canada, premiering in Toronto, and finding growing success in New York; Lawton embodies a vibrant energy that is personified in her immaculate clothing; exceptionally detailed, boldly shaped, and cut with laser precision. Not only did we have a moment to connect, but I even got to try on some of her brilliant pieces! The only words I can think of when touching a staple Lawton piece are chic, edge, and tundra! It's animality meets urbanity; flowing fabrics and billowing textures - everything I adore!

This new collaboration we are working on will feature select pieces from Lawton's previous Collections, evoking the energy and feel of her clothing in a visually impactful art-house film. Playing with light and darkness, shadows and silhouettes, and the concept of duality; we hope to create a provocative short that reflects the enigmatic characteristics of Heather Lawton's iconic design sense. We are filming before the end of the month! And I am so excited to share with all of you what we come with. We are hopeful to premiere at Toronto Fashion Week and re-solidify Heather's presence in Canada as a fresh, new, youthful designer with a killer look.

Wish us luck!

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Leather Vision / Heather Lawton Fall 2013 #NYFW

Hello Winter! I see you've not spared Toronto a single bit since I've been gone! But it's all good; 'tis the Season for Fashion, right? As you've probably guessed, I'm back from a fantastic week in New York City for Fashion Week. I hope you all joined me on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to keep up-to-date on all the fabulous; after all, there was quite a bit. From the dense, sparkling streets of Manhattan, to the industrial lofts in Chelsea, to the boutiques of SoHo - we had a brilliant time, thank you New York! I'll be seeing you again soon, I'm sure. You can read about my experiences in NY more in-depth on my sister-site, DylanInTheWorld.

Toni Francis, Myself, and Jossyl Bacalla at Heather Lawton's Event in NYC.

Now, onto the Fashion. Who was as obsessed with Heather Lawton's presentation as I was? Pretty difficult not to be. We were invited to attend her first NYFW Presentation at Studio450; a tucked-away, inner-city loft at W 31st and 9th. The entire gallery was a wicked, bright open-concept space that masterfully blended the edged, industrial elements of the building (not to mention the incredible view of Manhattan) with the stark, cold, bareness of the design - Winter branches, white as snow bleakness, and the dark palette of the Collection itself. It was a presentation that acted more like a gallery of fine portraits. Enthusiasts were invited to drink, chat, socialize, and admire the aesthetic of Lawton's rich designs in a friendly and touchable voyeuristic atmosphere using live models.

Rich, dark leather, obtusely-formed new silhouettes, and over-sized outer wear dominated Lawton's diverse and enthralling aesthetic. If any of my readers know me at all, they know that I'm obsessed with anything and everything Fall Fashion - big scarves, dramatic knitwear, and coats! You can never have too many fabulous coats! I adored Lawton's incredibly dramatic, almost cape-like coats; draping completely over the model, either in the front or all over, much like a wrap. It was almost like mixing the elements we love so much about move-able scarves and knits and turning them into a shaped coat; creating new, purposeful cuts that took the eye on a journey of new silhouettes. I am absolutely digging this trend of over-sized, over-fabulous, and over-covered. I've seen it evolve over the past year in this industry and I'm still not tired of it! It's so inner-city urban meets Winter tundra; fabulously trekking through the trials of a concrete jungle? Survival of the fittest no doubt, especially in New York! Skinny cut pants and leggings were a perfect, chic balance to all the dramaticism happening up-top; from billowing, fur stoles to lion mane-esque, neck-hugging shawls.

But all the obtuse forms, though brilliant, did not outshine the classic elements of this same presentation. Lawton is quite genius when it comes to the details of her tailoring; and all you really need to do is touch, feel, and really look to see all the brilliance of one her perfectly cut leather jackets; and all of a sudden, it's magic! Perfectly shaped, perfectly cut, and perfectly fitted pieces were the true majesty of this Collection; sitting in silent brilliance behind the visually dominating, bolder elements. As a matter of fact, perhaps my favourite piece from Lawton's entire Fall 2013 Showcase was a stand-alone, stand-out, hot pink Moto Jacket made out of the most luxurious, supple leather. It was like butter to touch and like candy to look at; absolutely divine. The chic simplicity of something like this is what will always be remembered in a proper Collection, because it actually works. This is something that wears the same way that it looks on the model and on the rack, chic and sharp from beginning to end. A stunning, on-point, on-trend, and perfectly composed Collection. Congratulations on all your success Heather! And all the success you will undoubtedly find in New York in the future. I am privileged to be working with someone so fresh, new, and exciting; and I can't wait to see where this new project will take me.

The collaboration we are working on will be taking place very soon in Toronto featuring some of Heather's most iconic and memorable designs from her previous Collections. Keep your eyes locked on DylanInTheCity for everything that will be evolving out of it, and especially come Toronto Fashion Week, where we hope to premiere! Only 1 month away, are you ready? View Heather Lawton's entire Fall/Winter 2013 Collection at New York Fashion Week right here at Women's Wear Daily.

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Winter Fashion! How Do You Wear It? / Trend Rundown!

Eek! The heat is off in my apartment! The best solution? Snuggling up in layers of knits, over-sized scarves, and reminiscing about Winter Fashion. Well, a Salted-Caramel Latte from Starbucks would surely add to the majesty - but, regardless, it's almost an excuse to try on every winter outfit at my disposal, is it not?

We are in the dead of the cold zone my friends; post-Holiday Season and pre-Spring renewal. A lot of people like to wallow around at this time of year; but I think that's ridiculous! Winter itself is a cleansing Season - the snow falls and washes away yesteryear; it's always been a time of catharsis. So what's the best way to celebrate the new you for the new year? Why not fantastic new outfits? You are what you wear! Here is a run down of some of our favourite Winter trends this Season.

WE LOVE...

1 / The Big Layers

There's nothing that says warmth like layers upon layers in Winter - but it isn't anything terribly new. Winter typically means layers in Fashion; but this year? I love seeing big layers! Bigger, bolder, more obtuse shapes; layering both over-sized and texturally bold pieces together brings a new creativity and eclecticism to Winter this Season - without losing any of the comfort. I love piling on knits after knits and wrapping it all under a fabulous scarf, or perhaps a great hat, or maybe just a fantastic weekend bag! Experimenting with bigger pieces this season will allow you to create new silhouettes for yourself you might never thought possible!

2 / Burst Pigments

Winter on the Runway lately has been an expression and an embrace of the chic monochromatic! You can never go wrong with a palette as bold as black, white, and every neutral in between - however! I absolutely love seeing people bring that burst of colour from Spring into their fabulous Winter wardrobe! And why not? With the stark contrast of snow on the ground and the blue haze of the city that the Season brings, it's almost perfect conditions to shine brightly under a bold power pigment. Experiment with some of your favourite Spring colours this Season and bring a little POP to Winter!

3 / Fur Textures

The textural majesty of something like fur is unmatched in the Fashion world! Fur has been a powerful and staple accent for the last few Seasons in Winter Fashion! Adding glamour, colour, and luxurious texture to almost any outfit you could come up with; fur, regardless of natural or faux, is a fantastic way to add just that little extra something to turn your great Winter in the city outfit into a showstopper look.

4 / That Pop of Red

Red, red, red! Red is my go-to colour this season for that extra pop of pigment! If you're that chic monochromatic girl or guy we've been talking about (and you'd rather embrace the black as opposed to the bright) try adding a little red somewhere in your outfit and see how quickly your look changes! Red is a multi-seasonal colour that evokes dramaticism and confidence! Adding just that bit somewhere in your look shows people you are not only chic, but also a little fearless!

5 / Metal

Are you a Metal Head? Because I certainly am! Metal, in the from of studs, blocked shapes, and hardware has been perhaps the biggest trend this Season for both Summer and Winter! Stud yourself out in metallic reflections of silver, gold, and gunmetal to add that edged look to any outfit this Season. It has been so huge it is almost a classic add-on - meaning you can partner it with the most elegant outfit you have and still make it work! Metal is no longer punk, it's chic! Work!

6 / Over-Sized Knitwear

An expansion of my obsession with big layers; over-sized knits are one of my favourite staples this Season for Winter! You can't go wrong with a huge, comfy sweater! Patterned in a great colour, or perhaps just loosely knitted with a great texture - a bold knit is the easiest way to throw something on and still remain interesting and chic in the coldest of the cold. Try layer knits over knits as opposed to drowning yourself in big, heavy Winter coats that can sometimes be unflattering if you haven't quite found the right one!

7 / Big, Big, Big Scarves and Wraps!

Is this too much of a theme for me?! I love big, wintery pieces! And this includes scarves. Why not layer that great knit with an even better over-sized scarf, stole, shawl, or wrap? Scarves are the trendiest way to add a bold hit of pattern and a unique silhouette to your ensemble this Season. It also adds to that bundled-up look that'll not only keep you on-point Seasonally, but warm and snuggled at the same time. Use them as a way to add a new visual colour impact or to neutralize or balance the many colours in your outfit altogether. Regardless of the way you wear it, a great scarf is perhaps your most versatile Fashion option during Winter and worth the investment!

8 / Holiday Sweater

Holiday Sweaters have a history of tack behind them; but what I found most interesting this Season are the amount of ways you can use them to add a tasteful, yuletide touch to your Winter Street Style! There's nothing wrong with embracing the colours, textures, and images of the holiday season into your outfit! It not only shows people you're in the spirit of things, but it also shows them that you can be put-together and still be charming and whimsical at the same time. It's cute, adorable, and can sometimes make a great little add-on to an already well thought-out Winter outfit.

9 / Black & Gold

Black & Gold are the staple monochromatics of the Season! Never out-of-style, these two tones partner up in a myriad of ways; black leather + gold embellishments, black knitwear + gold jewelry, gold coats + black leg wear - the options are literally endless. The most trendy pairing on both the Runway and the streets for Winter this Season, Black & Gold continue to be a fantastic and easy way to create chic dramaticism with just a few pieces here and there. Everything from luxurious richness to casual Street Style can be tuned-up to the moment and tastefully on-point with the addition of Black & Gold somewhere on the outfit! Experiment this Season with awesome ways you can wear them too!

10 / Leather, Baby!

Leather! Where do I begin? Honestly, it's almost too difficult to. Leather is the staple texture of Winter this Season. If you're not brave enough for fur, to chic for knit, you're bound to find something in leather. Warm, supple, shiny, and sharp; leather is the ultimate Winter add-on. Whether on your hands, over your body, on your legs, or on your feet; leather adds richness, warmth, a chic and sharp edge, and the perfect amount of neutral depth to any colour palette you could come up with. Leather can both tune-up or turn-down your outfit without compromising the balance of what you've already created - and it's so classic it'll last you Season after Season. A brilliant leather coat for example, cut to your shape and hitting you where it should, can give you a lifetime of ultimate style!

Phew! That was an afternoon-full of information! I hope you too can use this trend guideline as the perfect way to take your regular Winter wardrobe into something Seasonal and fabulous. It's always important to remember that clothes are just clothes; but investing in pieces for yourself that reflect who you are also investments into your character to the world around you. You are what you wear, at least to those around you! Make it count, and happy Winter!

Best,
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