You know that one of my favorite fashion weeks is the NYFW, yet beyond the classics – NYC, London, Paris, Milan, other fashion cities claim to be equally cool and interesting. Vancouver Fashion Week kicked off the week in style with a sensational selection of designers as part of the designers preview showcase. 14 brands exhibited one key look from their Fall/Winter 2018 collections as a tease of the incredible talent that we are to see throughout the week. Interesting textures created with hanging threads, wire structures, and feathers, were juxtaposed with smooth clean cut leather and fitted pieces. Colors ranged from clashing brights to serene metallics. It was a highlight reel showcasing an extraordinary mix of design aesthetics from across the globe.
Nicole Jedelsky, a Sydney based fashion and textiles designer, brought a feminine feel to the runway with velvet and silky textures. White jackets created with folds of fabric envelope the body, and pale olive tones are contrasted with deep dark forest greens. An intricate silky cowl neck dress in a golden hue shimmers in the light.
Next, Who is ATK, from Taiwan presents an unconventional menswear collection. Sport infused pieces are juxtaposed with more classical tailoring, and multiple layers create ominous structures. Huge exaggerated shoulder silhouettes, are met with hanging sleeves, and fur lined seams. An earthy color palette of browns, greys, and whites are lifted with embellishments. The designer believes clothing should have its own life and soul.
For a phenomenal finale, Qiongxin Kou, a Chinese designer based in New York, showcased a dreamy collection of womenswear in pretty pinks, bright blues, and canary yellows. Thigh-high mirror shine silver boots are contrasted with soft textured knits. Silky shining ruffles and pleated layers, flared sleeves, and printed quilted jackets demonstrate a thoughtful collection of wearable pieces.
Day 2 at the Vancouver runway started with a succession of local BC-based designers at the David Lam Hall in downtown Vancouver. JIJIN Design of Indianapolis presented a modern, edgy collection of two-piece looks. Minimalist metallic slip dresses laid the foundation for the artistic overcoats of shiny PVC and vinyl, detailed with geometric shapes hanging off sleeves and towering on the shoulders. Sleek hair with bold eye makeup tied the look together for a futuristic feel.
Si Mee Collections brought one showstopper after another, evoking a sense of feminine flare and confidence. Elegant silhouettes with ruffled high necks, corsets, and couture chiffon were a reminder of European eras past. Sheer details and metallic bodysuits subtly contrast the light white fabrics and sheer georgette. Based out of Nevada, Rosemarie Macklin creates avant garde designs for all women, worthy of being seen and recognized.
Beautiful oriental prints with delicate flowers and shapes filled the runway for Baroque Japanesque. An earthy color palette of deep golds, reds, and blacks set the tone for FW18, with prints adorning silky layers. Japanese designer Shiori Watanabe has created a wide selection of printed pieces to adapt into your wardrobe from skin-tight leggings to kimonos; the exquisite print is placed throughout with matching umbrellas as a highlight.
Allison Nicole Designs from Maryland, U.S showcased a line of elegant femininity, with soft, flowing silks and satins that gently caressed and accentuated the body, each garment adorned with signature, intricate florals. A romantic collection inspired by the female form with muted off-white, blush, pink, and nude shades. A-line waists and free-flowing silhouettes were enhanced with delicate lace, embroidery, sparkling embellishments, and tulle tiers.
VFW is the fastest growing fashion week in the world and the only industry event that actively seeks out to showcase international award winning designers from over 25 global fashion capitals. For 30 seasons, Vancouver Fashion Week has celebrated multiculturalism and up-and-coming on their runways. They strive to identify undiscovered designers by providing an accessible and internationally reputable platform. It is definitely of great interest to all new talents!
