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Nicole Miller Fall 2009

nicolemiller1Nicole Miller presents a sleek and darkly industrial collection for Fall 2009. Her colour palette is striking and rich. While lacy cocktail dresses, felt coats and separates are gunmetal black, paint can splashes of cobalt blue and lipstick red add a wonderful pop art vibe.

Solid black dominates the line, but luxurious textures such as hammered silk, stretch taffeta, and shiny leather keep things visually appealing. Some looks are decidedly edgy, with deep square-cut necklines, but take note of the sheer cap sleeves and another all-over black look becomes flirty and sweet. A very wearable collection, Miller offers flattering fit and easy glamour. Divine details include sequins, exposed zippers, and piles of draping chain links.

The angular look is accentuated with amusing pleats reminiscent of shingles, as well as geometric prints of black & white shards and plum-coloured twisted metal. The soot-like eyeshadow and towering, steel stilettos provide perfect finishing touches.

– Tiffany Chang

View more photos from the event below:


Photos by Stevyn Llewellyn

fashion

It’s all in the Tailoring: Modern Architecture Meets Modern Tailoring

6119: Ilana Sunderland

Canadian born designer llana Sunderland comes from a long line of tailors. For two centuries the Sunderland family has passed down the tradition of fine tailoring. So it should come as no surprise that Ilana Sunderland seems most at ease in this ever-so precise realm of constructing clothing.

Sunderland’s Savile Row roots betray her, in a collection that emphasizes cut and construction. Her approach to tailoring is obviously based in a clear understanding of construction. Before launching her own signature line the designer had stints had several renowned fashion houses were she able hone her design voice. Sunderland says,
“My goal is to create the ultimate fit. Wearing a perfectly tailored dress or suit is the epitome of luxury, sophistication and sexiness. I want my designs to convey those qualities”.

For her sophomore presentation, the designer showed a strong range of women’s and men’s tailored suiting with a sprinkling of dresses. Sunderland was inspired by modern architecture. (Perhaps, an homage to her father, the noted architect). It’s always interesting to hear where a designer draws inspiration from; it’s even more interesting to see whether they will take their inspiration too literally. Sunderland showed great restraint, there was a clear nod to linear forms and sleek shapes but it was overly indulgent. Sunderland showcased her favored pleating technique to great affect in a myriad of ways. The pleating appeared as detailing and in some cases an entire garment was comprised of tiny pleats. The collection showed Sunderland’s ability to address all the needs of clientele from work wear to evening wear to overcoats. Notable looks included a double breasted midnight (navy) suit, a brown full length pleated coat for women and structured coats with pleat detailing for both sexes.

Where Sunderland’s attention to tailoring and detailing sung her color palette fell flat the haphazard, restrained palette included Ruby (red), Midnight (navy), Heaven (light blue), black and a leopard print. But one could clearly see that any of these looks would translate in basic black for more metro-focused look (its fairly certain the entire collection will be available in black).

Overall this was a promising second showing. Sunderland is sure to make a name for herself with the minimalist set, with work that features some of the hallmarks of a certain 7th avenue minimalist and yet uniquely her own. It will be interesting to see where Sunderland takes us next season.

– Alexander Coelho

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Gottex

Photos By Stevyn Llewellyn
Photos By Stevyn Llewellyn



fashion

Tracy Reese Spring 2009

Tracy ReeseTracy Reese’s Spring 2009 collection is a romantic, safari adventure with Oriental undertones. This season, the designer sought to present the “brilliant progression” of nature in the springtime through “delicate, yet sophisticated pieces”.

A garden fantasy was created by splashes of lime, nectarine, and peacock blue while sparkling chandelier earrings and beaded tassel necklaces evoked a majestic celebration. The silhouettes were organic and refreshing – even pin-tucked and ruched pieces gave way to open sleeves and relaxed hems. A tropical breeze emerged in the form of mini lantern skirts, “Macau green” dresses, as well as high collar eyelet blouses, reminiscent of a traditional chipau.

Onyx and cream were softened in a concoction of satin cowls and chiffon floral appliqués. The solid one-shoulder gowns and cinched trenchcoats provided a lovely harmony to the watercolor blouson dresses and Van Gogh-inspired prints. Overall, it was a cheerful and optimistic portrayal of the evolution of spring.

– Tiffany Chang

Photos by Stevyn Llewellyn