Evan Biddell Launches Online Shop

Hello Fashion! It's me again, here to tell you that Spring 2013 couldn't look any better. With the flurry of new, local lines emerging, gaining ground, and making serious headway; I have been in nothing but a positive mood. There are so many amazing things happening right now for me as well; so many things I'm excited to share with you - but it will have to wait for now. That aside, it's great to see some of the most talented people this country has to offer create some of the best pieces I've seen this Season. In the spirit of things, I thought I should let you know about one of my favourites: Evan Biddell.

The incomparable Biddell has just launched his very first Online Shop celebrating his brand. We couldn't be more thrilled being a fan of Biddell since the very beginning. Boasting aesthetics that are always neoteric and uniquely defined by bold textures, colours, silhouettes, and new interpretations; Biddell's Online Shop offers consumers and local fans the chance to taste it for themselves if they, by chance, haven't been able to make it down to Queen Street in Toronto. This Season we are being treated to magnificent Chiffon in Paintbox hues and even some select Pop Art pieces from his celebrated presentation at Toronto Fashion Week for Spring/Summer 2013. We are absolutely smitten with his Collection of sheer capes, cowls, and wraps! Over-sized, flowing, and so wicked! Definitely wish I could own them all. Congratulations Biddell! It has been a fantastic privilege to see your empire and aesthetic grow and evolve.

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Day 1 at World MasterCard Fashion Week / Chloé Comme Parris

Opening night at World MasterCard Fashion Week saw iconic, sister-lead Design team, Chloé Comme Parris, return to the tents with an epic Fall 2013 Runway presentation. Embodying an attitude, aesthetic, and feel that was a nod to an unrefined and urban 90's era look; Chloé presented gunmetal graphics, over-sized fits, and schoolgirl stockings re-imagined to a classic soundtrack.

We were enamoured from the very beginning. Strutting out to Nirvana, knits tied around their waists, thigh-length dresses and over-sized moto-jackets; easily adaptable, retro fits. But, I should say, smartly adapted for a modern Fashion era by using mirrored graphics, patterned stockings, shiny shoes, and fantastic, glossy leather! An awesome palette of dark olives, sheer, and black dominated the Runway; while the 90's came out brashly in midriff cut tees, spaghetti-strapped dresses, and brazenly cut coats. I can't really say too much beyond that. Describing the Collection as is is the best I can do; and just saying that I absolutely fell in love with the feel. It felt like looking into the past a little bit, but it was so modern and wearable in today's evolving market. Listening to the music and seeing the girls; sweaters around their waists and braids in their disheveled hair, took me immediately back to Summer in the 90's; just cooler. It was wicked, urban, so hip, and it didn't pretend not to be. It wasn't subtle, but it was unique. A wicked presentation.

Credit for the amazing photos to George Pimentel and FLARE

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#LETYOURSELFGO with HUDSON Jeans / Spring 2013 InstaCampaign ♥

HUDSON Jeans has just launched perhaps the most inventive, clever, and interactive Spring Campaign ever - and it's fantastic fun! As part of the release of HUDSON's highly anticipated and awesome Spring 2013 Collection; the #LETYOURSELFGO InstaCampaign is a whimsical and ingenious idea that uses Instagram as an advertising platform that includes the very audience it targets! In other words, you create the Campaign and you live the look!

Kicking off in the birthplace of style, Georgia May Jagger sits at the helm of the Campaign, capturing personal moments with her friends and family to express what HUDSON's iconic mantra means to her. Along with Jagger is a series of enigmatic and powerhouse Bloggers, Influencers, and Public Figures all doing the same - taking what #LETYOURSELFGO means to them and re-creating it, re-imagining it, and re-delivering it through Instagram and the spirit of HUDSON Jeans. And the best part? You can join in too. Instagram is an artistic and constantly evolving public forum, which is why I love this idea so much! HUDSON has created a living Campaign; become a part of that movement! Upload your photos, your moments, and even your outfits with the hashtag #LETYOURSELFGO and let HUDSON know what the spirit of liberation means to you. Become automatically entered into a massive contest as well; with a chance to win exclusive SS13 denim, cash prizing, a feature in the campaign, and even the chance to fly to London where it all began. 

HUDSON has never been shy to include not only Social Media in their marketing but an infectious spirit of whimsy and youth. Similar to the fantastic success of their 10th Anniversary Collection and Campaign (which we loved too!), HUDSON is quick to embrace the music, art, and movement of urban youth; evoking liberation, freedom, and colour in a medium that goes beyond just their fantastic denim. So, what are you waiting for?

How do you #LETYOURSELFGO?

#HUDSONJeans

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#Obsessed with VALENTINO

Haute Couture, Spring/Summer 2013.

There are few other Houses that can evoke such sublime, epic beauty with such elegance, grace, and technical mastery. And that RED. Shoot me, Valentino must be a gateway to Heaven.

SAINT LAURENT / Spring 2013

Saint Laurent, the new born baby of Hedi Slimane; following the aftermath of the controversial re-branding, and re-naming of Yves Saint Laurent's great empire, has just released it's Spring 2013 Collection at Paris Fashion Week. Generally met with mixed and anti-climactic reviews; the Collection boasts strong silhouettes, a brooding and sophisticated palette, and classically sharp tailoring in the form of belted coats, blazers, and skin-tight trousers.

Although I can understand the attitude of reviewers considering this was Slimane's highly-anticipated debut - one can't knock his quality and approach. The clothing is immaculate. The palette is seasonal and on-point; and the flowing dresses, over-sized hats, and general aesthetic of an almost Old World meets New World, cowgirl sophisticate is chic, refined, becoming, and extremely bold. I especially love the huge capes and sheer blouses - weightless, movable, but very fashion-forward and interesting. I think people are expecting Slimane to re-introduce the grandeur of Yves Saint Laurent - but this can't be done. YSL will always be at the helm of what it means to be a YSL Woman - Slimane is re-introducing, re-interpreting, and re-imagining YSL. It has to be Yves Saint Laurent to Slimane, not Slimane for Yves Sain Laurent; in reality, that's the only way he will return YSL, now Saint Laurent, to it's former glory.

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Maiyet / Spring 2013 #ParisFashionWeek

You are what you wear! Maiyet's Spring 2013 Collection, showcased at Paris Fashion Week, is a Continental and beautifully composed display of soft textures, Earthy colours, and almost weightless grace. It is one of the most classically feminine displays of the Season - relying heavily on moving forms; bringing focus to the sophistication of their colourful, textural palette - from pure, crisp, cathartic whites to Safari greens, rich browns, and soft, ocean blues.

I absolutely love the White in this Collection. Yes, we've seen most Spring Collections this year, save for a select fab few, embrace the monochromatic and the stylistically simple this Season. But despite where we've seen starkness, stoic power, and bold shapes dominate World runways; Maiyet produces quite the opposite with the same energy of renewal - using graceful movement, bold, statement accessories, and billowing silhouettes that evoke an almost resort-like, effortless chic.

From the stunning sandals to the gorgeous, draped trousers; the belted maxi's to the printed Safari dresses - Maiyet's Spring 2013 Collection is bold, interesting, worldy, and charming but maintains the perfect amount of soft femininity, grace, and that summery-ease that everyone who shops Spring is just waiting to feel.

Best!

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JossyletToni + Dylan Dias / Find Me

I recently had the privilege of collaborating with Directors/Producers Jossyl Bacalla and Toni Francis for a Spring 2013 Fashion Film. The clothing is a colourful and flowing display of colours and textures that mirror the shadow and light of the forested area. A concept developed by all parties involved; the result is a romantic and ethereal display of femininity, softness, and newness. I was Key Hair for the shoot, along with a fantastic production and beauty team that included Arjun Mano (Director of Photography), Philip Cheng (Production Assistant), and Natalie Hudaj (Makeup) - Featuring the talent of Jessica Wanuch and Cy Speckeen. 

View Production Images here (Scroll to Find Me).

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The Details, The Details / Balmain #Spring 2013

I can't say anything that will bring any more majesty to the glory of Balmain's stunning Spring 2013 Showcase. Jaw-dropping textures, detailing, print-work, and styling. Fashion at this level is ultimate.

Emily Woudenberg / PARAGON

Our favourite local designer Emily Woudenberg is putting together the finishing pieces on her latest fabulous venture; PARAGON. Unique, bold, and full of statement pieces; in true Woudenberg fashion, PARAGON is a celebration and modern re-interpretation of The Art Deco Movement of the 20's. Strong, geometric shapes, bright colours, and materials that include copper, opalite, and silver are just some of the brilliance to expect once the full Collection is released.

I had the privilege of working with not only Emily herself, but a fantastic design team that she put together to help produce the Official Look Book photo shoot of PARAGON. Needless to say, the shoot went brilliantly; helmed by photographer Sylwia Bobryk and videographer Justine Arjune. Here's a preview of what to expect from PARAGON:

Join myself as well as the Woudenberg team at an Official Preview Party on Monday, October 15th from 4pm-7pm at Nyood Bar to see the full video as well as a true glimpse into the world of Emily Woudenberg and PARAGON.

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Burberry Prorsum Womenswear // #Spring2013

I don't know if many people will look at this with the wide-eyed wonder that I just did. Burberry has always held an aesthetic that is eternally classic and near and dear to me. They are irreplaceable in terms of their iconic outerwear and bag design. But I just need to say, reputation and love aside, this Collection is absolute magic. I can't say much more than that without belting out an overly verbose homage to the greatness behind Burberry - it's just magic. The colours, the metallics, the obtusely-shaped trenches, the capes, the transparent satchels...everything. It's pristinely constructed, meticulously styled with ultimate taste, and executed with stunning brilliance. This Collection is one of the best composed I've seen for the Spring/Summer 2013 Season, and everything about it resonates with me. Premiering at London Fashion Week earlier this week; watch the entire presentation below and be mesmerized by the beauty.

Burberry keeps getting better. Are you obsessed yet? For only 3 MORE DAYS you can shop directly from our Canadian Burberry website to find and purchase Runway looks from their Spring 2013 Show! How rare and amazing is that?! There is a limited quantity, find your piece here!

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P.S. The Story: Burberry Prorsum Womenswear 


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Alexander Wang, Spring/Summer 2013 // Full Show

Athletic Wear meets Chic Urbanity is the only way we can describe design-phenom Alexander Wang's bright and fresh direction at his Spring 2013 showcase at New York Fashion Week. Bermuda shorts, over-sized windbreakers, and glossy boots of an almost Grecian shape ground almost every look this year; while the true majesty of the Collection is, in true Wang style, in the brilliant detailing. 

Watch each piece closely - the geometric shaping and rigid lines are absolutely stunning in an aesthetic that's almost space-aged. On some garments the pieces themselves appear to be almost floating around the body, as opposed to being worn. Accented with brilliant silver metal hardware with a constant repeat of bold shapes that echo the shapes of the clothing, as well as the monochromatic palette; the Collection is stark, powerful, and stoic, but still very bright. I love the idea of creating what seems like printed texture and graphics by cutting the fabric itself; as opposed to printing alone, which has been so popular these last two seasons. Wang has literally taken incredible garment pieces, like his over-sized coats and billowing boyfriend shirts, and cut geometric patterns into them. The textural potential in terms wearability and colour is enormous; the piece becomes so much more than just what it is on the runway.

Wait till the very end of the presentation above for a fantastic visual treat courtesy of Mr. Wang. Just another reason he is simultaneously one of the most refined yet unique designers in the world right now. Everything is in the details, take a closer look, and add a bit of whimsy.

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3.1 Phillip Lim // #Spring2013

3.1 Phillip Lim has once again re-created Spring. I won't even begin to understand how he does it, season after season; but Mr. Lim, in short, continues to be one of my biggest inspirations in our Modern Fashion Era. Bold prints are one thing, and they've been hot for the last two seasons, but this collection takes the idea much further -  with bold shapes, bright words, t-shirt cut dresses, and parachute jumpers. 

Video by VOGUE at New York Fashion Week

Phillip Lim creates a fabulous and summery tribute to a 90's teenage dream - layered plaid, boyfriend cuts, and floral schoolgirl dresses grounded with bold sandals and flat footwear. I love everything about it. It's a reminder of old school Fashion; when trends were less about feminized forms and fabulous fabric, and more about the essence of Spring itself - light fabrics, ease of wear, youthful energy. The Varisty jackets are probably my favourite part, because they are the most assertive in the aesthetic; and of course those fantastic waist-tied shirts! How much do we miss these! Re-interpretation of a classic? Absolutely not. Bringing it back with style? Yes.

Phillip Lim's Spring 2013 is a celebration of teenage freedom, liberation, and identity. It is a departure of partnering textures, patterns, and shapes for unification and harmony; and instead a plunge into the mish mash closet of a young, creative girl. It's vibrant, unpretentious, and full of newness for a Spring season emerging out of the rich fabric and seriousness of the 2012 cycle; and it couldn't come at a better time. Newness is the word, thank you Phillip Lim.

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Sid Neigum Appreciation Day

We all know the amazing Sid Neigum - fresh, Canadian talent, TFI 2012 Winner, young visionary - has a permanent place in my heart. It's designers like him, from our part of the world, that are creating more than simple Fashion; they are Fashion. On days off like this I do little else than gawk over beautiful things, so here's one more; still relevant and still seasonal.

Sid Neigum + Wesley Stringer / FashionMagazine.com

Nihilism

In related news, according to the Official Facebook Page, Sid Neigum Spring 2013 is on sale. Oh, if only it could be me buying those incredible pieces! Or, really, even just to see them. So, why not have a gander?

info@sidneigum.com

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Nadine Naue For FGR // Friday May Eleventh // #RED

I'm obsessed with RED this season. I don't know why, I just have this itch that it's going to be, or should be, the next power colour. I know we're going through the motions of black leather, knitwear, iconic gold & silver hardware, and crisp whites as we head into Fall/Winter 2012 - but there's just something about RED. Bold, powerful, passionate, loud; it's unforgiving and stunning all the same. And I think I really want to see that with Fashion, or maybe I just wish I could see it all the time, because that's just me. RED in itself, as overbearing as it is, is almost the colour of colours. The red dress, red lips, red hair - synonymous with fire, sunshine, beauty, love, lust, and life. Wearing red is like sounding the alarm, being a siren. It evokes unforgiving assurance, confidence, and strength - but at the same time; can still be sexy, soft, feminine; should you choose it to be.

I've never been more in love with red on red on red, and I just wish I could turn it into some fantastic collection to make the world see RED new again. Anyways, we'll see what Fashion Week here in Toronto (fast approaching!) churns out for the new season, I just might not be the only one who feels this way.

Nadine Naue, in a fantastic New York Editorial by Zoltan Tombor, celebrates RED this season. Will you?

Friday May Eleventh

Zolton Tombor Photography

Styled by Edina Heath

Beauty by Pascale Poma

Featuring Nadine Naue of Q Model Management

For Fashion Gone Rogue

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Milan Fashion Week, Spring 2013 Street Style Feature

Outside Salvatore Ferragamo in Milan, from Michael Gleissner.
Did you spot the infamous Dello Russo in her stunning Peter Pilotto?

Ultimate Class, Ultimate Luxury, Ultimate Style

It's pretty common for me to be obsessed with fashion as a form; as in, what it signifies, what it evokes, and if it is unique, interesting, and bold. But there is more to fashion than obtuse individualism or striking newness; there is also epitomic luxury, quality, and craftsmanship. 

Ermenegildo Zegna's Spring/Summer 2013 Men's Collection, presented during Milan Fashion Week, is the crispest and richest looking collection I've seen all season. With an earthy, rich palette that includes a mix of aubergines, navy blues, camel leathers, and purple velvet; and the pop of a graphic print here and there in a pant, a proper shirt, or a pocket square; Zegna's showcase boasts resort-like luxury on an urban level. Beautiful, spring trenches that are almost feather light simply flow off the form while grounded by fantastic triangle totes that are so on-point for the season.

But most impressive of all, I'd have to say, would simply be the basic sport coats and blazers. The jackets in this collection are pristinely cut; they almost look like stoic, architectural sculptures. Everything from the subtlest print, a bold button, or the softest, glistening sheen throughout is not only well thought-out, but incredibly well executed. Everything has such taste and class, but everything isn't boring or forgettable in the least; conversely it's remarkable, interesting, and completely intentional to the finest detail. I'm officially impressed and officially obsessed with investing my money in brilliant suits this season.

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Circumsolar, and Fragments of Dying Light by Sruli Recht

Icelandic designer Sruli Recht's Spring 2013 Collection, and collaborative runway show with artist Tony Orrico, is a brilliant, hidden gem. Recht, clearly a man of performance, seems to use fashion as a way to transcend fashion itself. In an almost spiritual display of living art, Recht's collection beams unique character in subtlety and movement. 

I absolutely love the flowing knits; long and over-sized, moving over the body in an almost robe-like fashion, is completely on-point for the season; not to mention his Earthy palette. There is also a unique diversity to his collection; presenting everything from tailored lapels to over-the-shoulder sweaters, and high-cut summer shorts to baggy linens. I absolutely love everything about it; it is bold, interesting, and almost primal sometimes; though it delivers itself with taste and softness. And I believe it's modest enough to make sense without being overwhelming. We don't lose the fashion, even though the art itself is so interesting and large, and I think that's incredibly important.

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3.1 Phillip Lim Spring 2013 Menswear

Phillip Lim continues to be my dream designer. His taste for simplicity and modern form is a style essence  that I greatly associate with. He is consistently the designer who closest embodies what I believe I'd come to create had I a Collection of my own. There's no shortage of brilliance here. Softly-layered coats, over-sized dress shirts, and white on white on beige. Mmm, I could never miss a power pigment wearing any of these; not to mention those fantastic trousers! The Fashion World's obsession with ombré has given way to bold, orthogonal patterns, graphic printing, and textural overlay. Taste, taste, taste; and those bags! I'm swooning Mr. Lim, I'm swooning.

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Louis Vuitton Presents: LA is a Man

Louis Vuitton by Jean-Clean Thibaut: "When Los Angeles is a Man".

One in a series of upcoming short films that personify the energy of cities through gender and physicality; with brilliant narration.

"From the hill, suspended above the starry skyline, L.A. appeared to me as a whole. 

He's a lonely and secretive player, blazing and unrefined, dedicating himself to his dreams - and incidentally ours - with a disconcerting ease. 

He has the nerve and imagination of one who has nothing to lose, always walking a tightrope. His weaknesses are concealed.

Untouched by criticism, L.A. works in faith and finds his way to a new era, the one he imagines being his own future. The burning ease of his achievements has something of prodigality and childishness. Each sense of his life is the most important. L.A. is fated to be young forever, eternal. He walks through the night, striding along, indolent while unrestrained, with the style of a gifted kid.

In my mind a far-fetched idea is growing slowly; it seems L.A. gave me this blind confidence to turn things into art, without ever looking back. L.A. drove me where I have never been before."

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Andrea Pompilio Spring/Summer 2013

In Florence, Andrea Pompilio's Spring 2013 is an exuberant display of blocked pastels and powerful structure. Schoolboy-chic meets Calvin Klein-Americana! To me, this Collection, though in obvious inspiration from our current season, takes bold masculinity to a fantastic and fabulous level. The overlaying blocks of colour, the hints of shine, and the dramatic, over-sized luggage is to die for. It is a totally and brilliantly composed amalgamation of this season's hottest looks; from Versace to Phillip Lim. But I have to say, I'm partial to the carry-alls - did you see the giant, neon yellow tote?! Yes, please!

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