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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New York City with Heather Lawton / #FashionWeek

Where have I been?! Well, many places, doing many things! I apologize for my slight absence. Regardless, Fashion hasn't escaped my eye and I am absolutely loving some of the fantastic things I'm seeing for Fall/Winter 2013 from all over the Fashion Circuit. I simply cannot wait to see what some of the best talent in this country will have to offer come our very own Toronto Fashion Week in March.

I've been incredibly busy working on a number of freelance projects this year! 2013 began rapidly with some great opportunities for magazine spreads, published editorials, and new artist collaborations! February has only just arrived and I think I've already planned out most of my freelance hours through until the end of the Spring. I'm so excited to share with everyone the fruit of all our work; all of which will, in due time, appear right here on DylanInTheCity. Working with different artists, enthusiasts, and even designers has been an ongoing, growing process for me; I'm so thankful to able to share creativity with people who embody the very essence of it. It really is a magical thing.

Incredible Photo by © Steve Kelley

What's the latest? Why, New York of course! She does look lovely. I'm sure you remember the last Fashion Film I helped produce and participate in with powerhouse Directors Jossyl Bacalla and Toni Francis for JUMA last year. Well! We have a new direction. The team and I are partnering with Heather Lawton, a fresh and dynamic NY-based designer that's relatively new to the Fashion stage, to produce a short Mood Film to embody the energy of her aesthetic. As a result, I will be in town for New York Fashion Week (!!!) this year, as well as a guest at Heather Lawton's Fall 2013 show in Chelsea.

I couldn't be more excited for not only NYC but the chance to meet and build a rapport with Heather, who is essentially my first New York connection. Her taste is minimalist but bold, and she often plays with unique, graphic shapes in her pieces while maintaining a simplistic, chic tonal palette. The girls and I are planning some vibrant and intense visual ideas for this film, and we couldn't be more thrilled to be collaborating with a designer of Lawton's skill and potential. New York used to be just a photo on my wall, as I used to say, and Toronto used to be larger than life itself. It's amazing, the places we've come from and the places we go. For the first time I'm not just going to New York for New York - I'm going to New York for Fashion. Fashion takes me there.

I'll be flying to New York City next week and will be updating you all on my adventures in the city! Both on the Runway and off, so be sure you're tuned into my network to see everything first hand - from our meeting with Heather Lawton to Bryant Park to the streets of Midtown. Share it with me.

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From Toronto to NY,

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Alexander Wang doing Alexander Wang / Pre-Fall 2013

Alexander Wang, one of my ultimate Fashion idols and the recently appointed creative head of Balenciaga, just released his own Pre-Fall Collection for the 2013 Season. Masterfully composed of bulky knits, slickly-cut coats, and beautifully draped monochromatics in rich, tundra greys and crisp whites (in a way only Wang could do), the Collection is a brooding and sophisticated departure from the otherworldliness of Wang's typical aesthetic.

I love Wang's unique ability to play with youthful athletics in such a crisp way; adding really interesting textural elements in subtle ways that become bold when it pops away from all the minimalism. The slight drape over the collarbone, the blocked shoulders, the powdery, dusted sport coats, and the asymmetrical zipper. It's an edge that evokes an air of ultimate chic at the same time; something I absolutely love seeing in Fashion. The pieces are ideal for that spark of coolness that hits just before your Autumn coat needs to come out, and is the perfect Collection for the inner-city woman both professional and artistic. It's divine, and all I can say is that I really wish I could wear that sleeveless military coat!

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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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Jeremy Laing and Holt Renfrew

Jeremy Laing continues to be one of Canada's youngest and brightest talents in the industry. He has consistently been a powerhouse of construction and form, with an eye for the finest details to create the simplest piece. A refined approach to fashion, Laing's consistent ability to remain on season but unpretentious is key to the understated chic of his clothing. Unsurprisingly, his talent has not gone unnoticed. Laing, after his early beginnings as a designer in Toronto, expanded and honed his skills through an exchange program in London, as well as landing an apprenticeship under the famed House of Alexander McQueen. Holts was the first store in Canada to pick up Laing's clothing; and ever since, his independent presence in the industry, both above and below the border, has substantially increased. Jeremy Laing, in my opinion, is one of the most inspiring young designers, with vast potential, to blossom from this city.

Holt Renfrew: Jeremy Laing from LLchemy on Vimeo.


Here is Jeremy Laing's Fall/Winter 2012 Collection from New York Fashion Week this year:



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PARKCHOONMOO // The Void

I've already reviewed and featured Choonmoo Park's brilliant Fall/Winter 2012 Collection here. However, by random search, I have finally come across the full Runway video from New York Fashion Week and decided that it couldn't go without feature. The Void remains a brilliant and masterful showcase of sophisticated construction, palette, and form. Fantastic, as usual.

PARKCHOONMOO [THE VOID] A/W 2012 from PARKCHOONMOO on Vimeo.

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Rodarte Being Fantastic (F/W 2012)

Rodarte's latest runway is a wonderful exhibition of 30's-inspired frocks and almost militant-esque 40's-inspired jackets and suits. Fantastic leather work staple this entire collection together; did you see those rounded lapels!? They are just divine. Vintage is always understated and never boring, and if re-created correctly, is always in style. These are classic shapes that will never die. I have a new love for Rodarte.

Rodarte FW2012 New York Fashion Week Runway Show from Bo Matthew Metz on Vimeo.

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Parkchoonmoo Fall/Winter 2012

The ponchos, the flowing knits, the fur, the silk, the black, the slate, the white! Korean designer Choonmoo Park's latest Fall/Winter 2012 collection (at New York Fashion Week) redefines what luxury can actually look like. This showcase is anything but gauche, but at the same time, it is just as interesting. I love the way she has feminized the traditional masculine form, as well as her use of strong lines of demarcation. Everything is blocked and angled; it almost looks like it could be casual recreational wear 1000 years into the future. This is one of the most interesting collections I've seen at Fashion Week.

Parkchoonmoo - NY Fall Winter 2012 from FashionStock.com on Vimeo.

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Michael Kors Fall/Winter 2012

Michael Kors' latest Fall/Winter collection at New York Fashion Week is a stunning, glamorous reminder of what his brand, identity, and aesthetic is all about. In true Kors style; luxurious, rich, and very American - classic shapes, rustic warm colours, and total, over-abundance. Over-sized fur toned and tailored to be almost primal in shape are the epitome of cabin chic in this brilliant showcase of proportion and texture. And of course, what would a Kors collection be without a few stunning staple evening gowns? 

Michael Kors Fall 2012 #MBFW from Envision Studio on Vimeo.

Watch the show in its entirety below, courtesy of FashionStock.

Michael Kors - NY Fall Winter 2012 from FashionStock.com on Vimeo.

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The Libertine Aesthetic

Libertine Fall/Winter 2012
New York Fashion Week

I find this collection unusually impressive. Libertine is expanding on a new aesthetic; the over-sized and exaggerated proportions of brilliantly constructed coats and sweaters. The metal detailing on every piece adds, simultaneously, a punk edge and a glamorous sparkle. The monogram pieces are brilliant and in-your-face, and just chic enough to be reminiscent of Louis Vuitton in a small way; except maybe meeting Westwood halfway. Libertine is liberation.

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3.1 Phillip Lim, Fall/Winter 2012

Phillip Lim (3.1 Phillip Lim) is an extraordinary tailor. The simplicity of his forms are so powerful because of the finest details; blocks of colour, intersecting lines, layers of fabric. Even the way he creates flowing knitwear is of masterful structure. His latest Prét-a-Porter Collection in New York for the 2012 F/W Season is no exception to the aesthetic.

3.1 Phillip Lim Fall 2012 Women's Runway Show from 3.1PhillipLim on Vimeo.

Monochrome neutrals are back and brilliant. What began the SS'12 Collections of Fashion Week has once again inspired an embrace of the basic. Black, white, slate, camel, navy, forest, even scarlet; have become the new staples of Winter. Over-sized, flowing knits of incredibly crisp white meet powerfully tailored blouses and coats of almost regal stiffness. There is a real amalgamation here of a gone-but-not-forgotten 80's aesthetic with crisper, modern lines. A new embrace of an imagined torso, an exaggerated silhouette, which gives the entire collection an almost youthful whimsy, despite it's contemporary palette. It is effortlessly rich without the need to be, and in true Phillip Lim style, is a complete abandonment of everything overly-textured or overly-accessorized. Simple shapes, simple blocks, interesting lines, brilliant hues; with the slightest metallic just in sight. It is a fantastic expression of a timeless, chic, and urban aesthetic. And those over-sized clutches! Did you see the over-sized clutches?!

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