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VCC Fashion Arts Grad Show

On September 29th, I had the fantastic opportunity to see my very first fashion show at the Rocky Mountaineer Station. At the event, 21 VCC Fashion Arts Graduates showcased their sophisticated designs, hard work, and creativity. I was instantly surprised at the skill level of the graduates' portfolios that were laid out for press, family and friends. Every draft and layout was beautifully done, and the thick booklets of outfits were a classy blend of artistry and talent. Before the show, I was anticipating a simple and perhaps even "amateur" show; yet, as I walked through the doors, the atmosphere was professional and extremely chic. I felt honored to be asked to join the excited crowd of supporters and fashionistas.

The beginning of the show started with Blake Hyland, a fan favourite and the only male of the group. I was blown away by the originality of the pieces and the grungy/hobo-chic looks. The male models looked like retired rock stars, and the combination of leather and metal textures seemed oddly put-together in the context. Although they were mens clothes, my friend whispered to me, "that looks pretty cool." I really liked one of Blake's white shirts, where the fabric choice made it look dirty, like a fashionable, sweaty carpenter's t-shirt.

One designer that really caught my eye (mainly because I loved the dress she was wearing), was Karen Niven. Her clothes evoked the 50s feel of vintage Manhattan, and the timeless silhouettes definitely could flatter any body type. I immediately wanted many of the pieces to add to my closet. One of my favourite looks was a white blouse with extended shoulders, tucked into a shiny gold and teal leopard print skirt. Matched with a modern gold necklace, and black pumps with a yellow underside, the look was absolutely gorgeous. I also loved the gossip-girl-esque black and white dress. It was a white sweetheart neckline corset with a to-the-floor sheath of black fabric. I could definitely see Ms. Blair Waldorf wearing this dress with a gleaming diamond necklace on the streets of New York.

The designer I thought was most current and trendy was Nicole Obidowski. Personally, I love menswear pieces on women, and her collection was fashion at its best: classic with an added funkyness, and perfect for day or night. My favourite look from Nicole was the sexy white cropped shirt, white and loose slacks, and a thin cream-coloured cardigan. As well, I really wanted the cute black backpack, which hung like the way an accessory would on the model's back. It was announced before the show that Nicole was also a finalist in a Montreal Fashion Week contest, and won second! I can see Nicole going very far in her career as a designer, and it seems that she is already being recognized by her crisp outfits and inventive designs.

Monica Fraser's beautiful peacock dress flew down the runway at the VCC fashion show.

However, the two designers that had the most spunk and eccentricity were by far Monica Fraser and Robynne Redgrave McPherson. Monica's entire collection was inspired by the colours and shape of the peacock, which reflected beautifully in her clothes. I especially loved the versatility of the pieces: for example, a dark and mysterious coat with a sparkly peacock came off to reveal an elegant, shapely, blue feather dress. I was in awe of one of Monica's dresses. It was almost like a cape, with various gold textures, feathery shoulders, and an origami-like print of two peacocks. I saw the designer sitting in the front row, looking very in-style with a blue bob wig and huge black sunglasses. Robynne's peasant/marionette look was the closing collection of the show, and summed up the innovation of future fashion trends. Draped dresses mixed with brown vests and long socks conjured up images of Alexander Wang's Summer 2010 collection of modern athletic wear. I particularly liked the equestrian feel of her dark plaid kilt, camel coat, and hiker boots. It was a very inspiring line for fall/winter 2010-2011 trends.

There is no doubt that these students learned a lot during their time at VCC, and all of the designers have talent and skill. Watching the designers walk the catwalk with their model and seeing their own personal style was a favourite moment of mine, especially with the ecstatic cheers of their family and friends in the crowd. I couldn't help feeling proud for these designers, only some at the start of their upcoming successful careers. This year with the Olympics, some of the students even had a chance to work for Nike Canada and sew names into hockey jerseys. All these milestones are additions to their growing portfolios. I look forward to seeing these designers in the future, and hopefully get some of their pieces in my hands!